Sara Hardy Humanitarian Award Given to NASW Michigan Member

TRAVERSE CITY -- This year's recipient of the Sara Hardy Humanitarian Award was so shocked to be selected by the Traverse City Human Rights Commission that she called back the chairwoman two days later to make sure she'd correctly heard the news.

The commission selected Traverse City resident Jane Hayes (NASW Member) for her dedication to supporting education and furthering the ideals of equality and diversity.

The annual award recognizes Sara Hardy, who was instrumental in establishing the human rights commission more than 30 years ago, by honoring someone in the community who exemplifies the commission's ideals. Those include promoting mutual understanding and respect among all people and discouraging discriminatory practices.

Anyone in the community can be nominated.

"We go through the nominations and we take our time in reading what people have to say about the particular person and what they've done for the area, or maybe for a particular venue that they're working with or working in," chairwoman Theresa Gardner said. "Every year we have so many worthy candidates."

Hayes stood out in this year's pool. She made a career in social services and higher education and served on community boards, including the Great Lakes Community Health Board and the Traverse City Area Public Schools Board.

Hayes taught at Grand Valley State University's School of Social work and was the site coordinator for the GVSU MSW program and a site coordinator for the Ferris State BSW program both located at the Northwestern Michigan College University Center.. She also worked for Catholic Human Services, Inc., Community Mental Health and the Women's Resource Center in Traverse City.

Nominees wrote about her impact on her students and peers.

"I truly believe that a true humanitarian is one who holds respect for self and others, who listens not only to the voices that we all hear but to the unheard voice," Constance Baab wrote in her nomination. "The true humanitarian is one who encourages others to speak up and when needed will stand strong with a voice that speaks of truth and justice for all. This is Dr. Jane Hayes."

"She is the calm rock in the sea, not grabbing the limelight, and I feel we need to recognize one of these movers and shakers who often stay in the background to empower others to move forward," Ursula Johnson wrote.

Hayes, 66, is now retired from teaching, but that doesn't stop her from making an impact.

"Valuing and caring for people and the social needs of people are a priority in my life," she said.

Hayes will be honored at a March 17 reception at 6 p.m. at the Governmental Center, 400 Boardman Ave., followed by the award presentation by Traverse City Mayor Michael Estes at 7 p.m.

"I'm really honored to be receiving this," she said. "There are so many people in the community who are so deserving that it is humbling to be recognized with this award."

The full article can be found at http://www.record-eagle.com/local/x1387854255/Winner-dedicated-to-social-work-ed