The University of Wisconsin-Superior’s Jade Jensen has been named a recipient of the 2024 Outstanding Women of Color in Education Award. This annual honor given to faculty, staff, students, or community members to recognize their achievements in advancing equity and inclusion for people of color within the Universities of Wisconsin as well as communities across the state.

Jensen is an alumna of UW-Superior and has served as the public services coordinator at the university’s Jim Dan Hill Library for five years.

“In my time attending school at UWS, I felt supported to be myself and was able to follow many of my passions,” said Jensen. “Those same sentiments have carried over into my job at the Jim Dan Hill Library, and I get to develop projects that promote equality and inclusion. I am excited that my contributions have a positive influence on the campus community and that I can be a part of creating opportunities that benefit the students.I appreciate all those that nominated me for this award and I’m very grateful.”

Recognizing the importance of diverse voices and perspectives, Jensen has undertaken comprehensive audits of the collection, carefully examining it through the lenses of ability, race and gender. Her efforts have resulted in a more inclusive and representative collection that reflects the diversity of our community.

This commitment to inclusivity extends outside the library walls. Jensen is often seen around campus hosting pop-up libraries for International Women’s Day, Black History Month, Constitution Day, and other important days of recognition.

“By championing initiatives that promote accessibility and inclusivity, Jade has helped cultivate a welcoming environment where every individual feels valued and respected,” said UW-Superior Chancellor Renée Wachter. “In her role, Jade exemplifies dedication, leadership and a profound commitment to fostering social justice and inclusivity within the community.”

This year is the 29th anniversary of the award through which more than 400 women of color have been recognized for their transformational work.

“The Universities of Wisconsin have a longstanding commitment to inclusion at our universities,” said Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman. “We are proud to honor these women of color whose achievements are helping our campuses and communities.”

Recipients were formally recognized on December 4, in Madison at an awards ceremony and reception hosted by the Universities of Wisconsin. The ceremony and reception were held in conjunction with the Universities of Wisconsin presentation of the Dr. P.B. Poorman Awards for Outstanding Achievement on Behalf of LGBTQ+ People.