Liberian Social Worker Leymah Gbowee Honored with Jolli Humanitarian Award

6/22/2010

Liberian social worker Leymah Gbowee was awarded the first ever Jolli Humanitarian Award, given to a “person of merit” as nominated by a tenth grade student at Riverdale Country School.

The Jolli Humanitarian Award was established by Riverdale Country School Board of Trustee member Gregg S. Hymowitz with the goal of introducing the student body to a different ‘hero’ each year who has made a substantial difference in the world and inspires leadership and courage in others. In the fall, students submitted written proposals; seven finalists then presented their proposals to a small group of judges, including the Head of School, the Head of the Upper School, the Director of Studies, and trustee Gregg S. Hymowitz.

The winning proposal, written by Rachel Wolitzer, told the story of Leymah Gbowee, a leader of the Women in Peacebuilding Network (WIPNET) who brought together Christian and Muslim women to form the Liberian Mass Action for Peace that helped end the bloody civil war in Liberia. Thanks to Rachel’s persuasive proposal, Leymah Gbowee’s name will be placed on the front portico of the 9/10 building, renaming the building for the year. Next year, during the spring semester, the sixth grade history curriculum will include a mini unit on themes relating to Leymah Gbowee’s struggles.

Gregg S. Hymowitz says, “I am thrilled that Riverdale will honor each year a new individual, chosen by students, whose life exemplifies the core values of the Riverdale community. Leymah Gbowee's fight for social justice in Liberia is a daring and remarkable example of Mind, Character, Commitment, and Community.”

In the future, a picture of the current year’s chosen ‘hero’ will be displayed along with a brief biography in the front lobby of the 9/10 building. A plaque listing all previous winners and the students responsible for nominating them will be displayed along with the student’s winning essay.

Leymah Gbowee will visit Riverdale Country School on Thursday, September 23, 2010 at 2:30 p.m. to speak with students at a special assembly. A screening of Pray the Devil Back to Hell, a film chronicling the “remarkable story of the courageous Liberian women who came together to end a bloody civil war and bring peace to their shattered country” will be shown on Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at 7 p.m.