Dr. Dexter Gordon, Executive Vice President of The Evergreen State College, has been recognized with multiple honors over the past year for his unwavering commitment to community and his efforts to remove barriers to higher education. These accolades underscore his dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
This past year at The Evergreen State College has been marked by significant challenges, including the tragic death of student, Jonathan Rodriguez from carbon monoxide poisoning in campus housing and the presence of an encampment on campus in protest to the war in the Middle East. During these difficult times, Dr. Gordon played a pivotal role in supporting the college community. He met with students, listened to their concerns and facilitated open dialogues between the administration and the student body. His compassionate leadership and commitment by addressing issues head-on have been instrumental in helping the college navigate these trying circumstances.
In May, Dr. Gordon received the prestigious award from the Old Harbour and Friends, an organization serving the Jamaican Diaspora in New York. This honor recognizes native Jamaicans who have made contributions to their communities and demonstrated outstanding leadership. The Old Harbour Diaspora praised Dr. Gordon for his dedication to education and his continued work in Jamaica – being a huge advocate for community activism in Old Harbor Bay including being a part of the Old Harbour Bay Home Coming Committee, a group that seeks to highlight the worth and work of the people from Jamaica’s largest fishing village. The Mayor of New York provided an accompanying citation acknowledging Dr. Gordon’s international contribution including noting that “Through his work, he has focused on providing opportunities for students, many of whom, like him, are the first generation in their families to attend college.”
Last year, Dr. Gordon was also recognized by the St. Catherine Municipal Corporation, in Jamaica, for his tireless work for his decades of work in the Old Harbor Bay community and surrounding areas. He received this honor, fittingly, on National Heroes Day. He was honored for, “being a true hero, one who works tirelessly, often without his cape.”
The recent honors of Dr. Gordon serve as a testament to his impact and positive change he has brought to every organization he works with. His dedication to community, education and inclusivity continue to inspire and influence Evergreen and the broader community.
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