On October 16, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs presented Raymond E. Crossman, Ph.D., president of Adler University, with the Outstanding Commitment in Education Award. Recipients of this award can be nominated by the Treasurer’s Office advisory council members, community leaders, and the public for their leadership and commitment to their field. For this award, Dr. Crossman was selected for his dedication to LGBTQ rights and his advocacy for social justice.
“Dr. Crossman’s proven leadership of a university committed to social justice makes him an outstanding candidate for this award,” Treasurer Frerichs said. “We are thrilled to recognize someone who is so devoted to his profession, students, and community.”
Dr. Crossman is the longest-serving LGBTQ university president in the U.S. and Canada and the second longest-serving university president in Chicago.
“I am honored to receive the Outstanding Commitment in Education award,” Dr. Crossman said. “As president of Adler University for more than 16 years, I am grateful to be on the forefront of many social justice issues, including those that impact the LGBTQ community. I’m fortunate to work with talented educators who both celebrate human diversity and equip students with the skills to advance social justice. Adler University advances that work every day, and I am grateful to Treasurer Frerichs for recognizing our institution.”
Dr. Crossman co-founded LGBTQ Presidents in Higher Education in 2010, hosted its inaugural meeting in Chicago, and co-chaired the growing advocacy organization until 2018. His community work has included service on the boards of the Center on Halsted (Vice Chair), Chicago Loop Alliance, and OUT at Chicago History Museum (Chair).
Adler University is educating students to promote community wellness and advance social justice. Based on the teachings of Alfred Adler, the first community psychologist and the school’s namesake, Adler University’s curriculum encourages students to engage with the world, challenge the status quo, and identify and address systemic injustice.
A total of seven community members from across the state were recognized during Wednesday’s ceremony to celebrate LGBTQ History Month at the James R. Thompson Center in Chicago. Treasurer Frerichs has honored community members from across the state to celebrate LGBTQ History Month since 2016. This event is an opportunity to reflect on the great achievements of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer community and present awards to active leaders.