University of the PACIFIC

Dr. Bob Oprandy, Professor in the Gladys L. Benerd School of Education, was awarded the prestigious MLK Peace & Justice Award at a luncheon held Monday, January 17th, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King.

Professor Oprandy has a long history of involvement in developing comprehensive curriculum in diversity and inclusion.  Bob has served on the University Diversity Committee, was a co-facilitator for the "Diversity Curriculum Advisory Board", and was a key contributor for the "Pioneering Diversity Symposium" held in April 2010.  This symposium was part of the university's Presidential Inaugural Series bringing together community leaders and activists for discussion on how to increase opportunities for the diverse population in our region.

In addition to those scholary activities, Dr. Oprandy was a teacher trainer for the Peace Corps in Thailand. Bob has traveled throughout the world and the United States training teachers fueling his passion for working with a diverse population and developing intercultural competence through his courses and initiatives.

Dr. Oprandy was described as an undeniably loving and proactive change agent making him the perfect choice for the MLK Peace and Justice Award Faculty recipient.

           From left to right: President Pam Eibeck, Dr. Bob Oprandy and fellow
           award recipeints.

                        Sergio Acevedo with nominee and recipient of the
                        MLK Faculty Award, Dr. Robert Oprandy.