MLK Spirit Award to Former First Gen Student Who Now Motivates Them at Marian University (Audio)

FOND DU LAC, WI – As a first-generation college graduate, Garry Moïse firmly believes in the power of connecting the youth to unique lifelong learning opportunities; particularly through higher education experiences.  Through his motivational communications at Marian University, he avidly encourages others – especially young students – to see themselves as empowered change-makers who can contribute to the quest for innovative and sustainable solutions to global challenges; one community at a time.

Now Moïse was honored for his work with students, as recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Spirit Award, at Marian University’s annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Prayer Breakfast.  Registration for the event, held on Dr. King’s birthday, was sold out as more than 170 people gathered in Marian University’s Stayer Dining Room on Monday, January 16^th at 7:30 a.m. 

A native of Haiti, Moïse is a multilingual Education Administrator and the Director of Marian University’s TRIO/Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) program and an adjunct faculty member, teaching International Business. Moïse has a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (2008) and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing (2005). Prior to that, he earned his Associate of Applied Science in Quality Management (2000) from Fox Valley Technical College in Appleton, Wisconsin. Both of his liberal arts degrees are from Marian University where he has devoted the past fifteen years to serving in a variety of professional roles. In addition to his role as Director of UBMS, Moïse is an adjunct faculty member, teaching International Business.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Spirit Award recognizes a person or group who has given of themselves to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and has gone above and beyond in the endeavors of equality, social justice and providing access to succeed.  As a lifelong learner and educator, Moïse is actively involved in his community, church, and with various state, local and regional organizations.  He participates in initiatives that focus on social justice matters such as diversity, equity, equality, inclusion, educational access, religious freedom, and well-being.  Senior Vice President for Advancement & Alumni Relations and fellow colleague, Kate Candee, shares, “Garry has dedicated decades to be an advocate for underrepresented members of the Marian community and the greater Fond du Lac area as a leader in TRIO at the local, state, and national levels.” As a young boy, Moïse’s father introduced him to the story of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and it’s a moment frozen in his memory.  Humbled to be mentioned in the context of King’s legacy decades after that introduction, Moïse said, “I accept this award because it belongs to all of those who have worked alongside me and to all of those who have paved the way for me.  I have more work to get done.  I still have many others to serve.” At the conclusion of his inspiring acceptance speech, Moïse issued a challenge to “start right now by doing any small part – that sincerely comes from your heart – to treat others with dignity, courtesy, love, and respect.”

Click below to listen to Garry join KFIZ Today to talk about his life, as well as this honor.