Shavonne Fuller, a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology student on the Chicago Campus, has demonstrated her commitment to social justice inside and outside of Adler University.
As Social Responsibility Officer for Adler Student Government (ASG), Fuller organized a student-led, campuswide initiative to support communities in Mexico and Puerto Rico in the aftermath of natural disasters. She also collaborated with agencies across the Chicago area to create a resource fair for students, staff, and faculty.
Shavonne’s character is one of kindness, compassion, prudence, and dedication,” said the ASG leaders, who nominated her. “She has taken her position of ASG Social Responsibility Officer and expanded it to show more than mere fulfillment of the position, but to explicitly demonstrate the power that one person can do for many.”
While working as a therapy extern at Harold Washington College, Fuller organized a domestic violence awareness week to connect students to campus and community domestic violence advocates and resources.
The Alfred Adler Social Justice Award “motivated me to continue advocating for people who have had to overcome numerous hurdles to gain access to places of privilege because of their multicultural identity,” Fuller said.
“I share this award with those individuals who needed to see someone of brown skin and kinky hair as an advocate for them and for those who continue fighting alongside me.”
Fuller encourages her fellow Adlerians to continue fighting for marginalized populations and underserved communities. “Use your privilege to break barriers that prevent others from gaining access,” she said. “Examine your privilege, biases, and prejudices; challenge them and work toward deconstructing them. Understand your clients from a multicultural lens. Orient yourself to experiences that are different than yours. Immerse yourself in advocacy and activism. And continue to fight alongside those who strive for social change, equity, and equality.”