In Review

MEDAL OF HONOR: Frederick Jefferson, a professor emeritus at the Warner School of Education, received the Frederick Douglass Medal in April, in recognition of his part in making the University and the Rochester community more diverse and inclusive.

A behavioral scientist, Jefferson came to Rochester in 1973 as director of the Educational Opportunity Program. Since then, he has served in a variety of roles, including director of the Department of Special Student Services and assistant to the president for University and community affairs. Today he is a University intercessor, specializing in issues related to racial and ethnic diversity.

A significant leader in the Rochester area, Jefferson has served as board chair of Action for a Better Community, as well as the local chapters of the American Red Cross and the United Way. He’s been an advisor to the Gateways Music Festival and currently chairs the board of the Baobab Cultural Center.

The Office of the President and the Frederick Douglass Institute created the medal in 2008 to honor scholars or civic leaders who represent Douglass’s ideals and have contributed to educational life.