{"id":27867,"date":"2025-08-18T15:08:55","date_gmt":"2025-08-18T15:08:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/160-news\/?p=27867"},"modified":"2026-01-09T19:15:59","modified_gmt":"2026-01-09T19:15:59","slug":"changemakers-in-action","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/2025\/08\/changemakers-in-action\/","title":{"rendered":"Changemakers in Action"},"content":{"rendered":"

Each June, Reunion weekend on campus includes celebrating our Alumni Award winners. Nominated from across the global alumni community and selected by the Alumni Board, honorees exemplify Mac\u2019s values through leadership, achievement, and community engagement. Individually, their stories unfold in different places and paths around the world; collectively, they\u2019re all working to build a better tomorrow.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meet this year\u2019s winners\u2014and start thinking about who you want to nominate this fall for next year.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Matthew Johnson \u201989<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distinguished Citizen Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Dr.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Matthew Johnson \u201989 is a global leader in scientific and technological efforts to understand and improve Earth\u2019s climate. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a professor of atmospheric chemistry at the University of Copenhagen, Johnson has combined academic excellence with entrepreneurial innovation. He\u2019s played a leading role in six clean technology start-up companies, including one based on his invention of an indoor air purification system that mimics Earth\u2019s natural atmospheric processes. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another company, Ambient Carbon, is commercializing systems to eradicate methane\u2014a powerful greenhouse gas Johnson identified as a major driver of climate change. His work has appeared in Nature, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, and a book from Cambridge University Press. Johnson has consulted for the Environmental Protection Agency, NASA, and testified for the National Academies report on methane. He holds a dozen patents and has nearly fifty collaborators in every continent on the globe.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raised by a Presbyterian minister, Johnson sees no conflict between science and spirituality. \u201cThe idea that science is crushing religion or spirituality makes me itchy,\u201d he says. \u201cI think they work together, powerfully, and are just different aspects of the same human spirit.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Richard Lesicko \u201975<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distinguished Citizen Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Richard<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Dick Lesicko \u201975 brought together students from across the country and the world to represent Macalester in forensics. His innovative coaching led to numerous championships and national titles. More importantly, many describe him as their favorite teacher, coach, and mentor of all time.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lesicko led Macalester\u2019s forensics program for over 30 years, expanding it to include multiple forms of debate, mock trial, ethics\/bioethics bowl, and Model UN. \u201cThese events are outstanding laboratories for students to develop teamwork and soft skills every employer and graduate program values,\u201d he says. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though he could have pursued research, law, or the private sector, Lesicko chose to stay with his students and his calling to teach. \u201cWatching someone go from being afraid to give a speech to transforming into an incredibly accomplished public speaker was something that got me up in the morning,\u201d he says. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

His nominator writes: \u201cIt is as hard to be legendary as it is to be beloved, but Dick is a beloved legend, which is hardest of all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brian Bull \u201991<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Catharine Lealtad \u201915 Service to Society Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Brian<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Brian Bull \u201991, a member of the Nez Perce tribe, is a journalist dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices. Throughout his public radio career\u2014including at stations in South Dakota, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Oregon\u2014he earned numerous awards for work filed with National Public Radio member stations and National Native News. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cI wish more people knew how much importance we put into being sensible, balanced, and accurate reporters,\u201d he says.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bull is now a senior reporter for Buffalo\u2019s Fire, a Native American-led media outlet covering Indian Country with depth and authenticity\u2014from environmental stewardship to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons crisis. For 25 years, he mentored aspiring journalists through NPR\u2019s NextGeneration Radio Project. \u201cKnowledge is like a fire that can be shared between people,\u201d he says. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Macalester\u2019s commitment to diversity, activism, and global awareness gives him hope for greater understanding. \u201cI\u2019ve made lasting friendships at Mac and am better for knowing so many generous, passionate people,\u201d he says.  <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

His nominator writes: \u201cBrian was an outstanding student in my psychology class, and I have admired his career ever since.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kathy Pinkett \u201975<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distinguished Citizen Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Kathy<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

From high school\u2014where she managed Sonia Sotomayor\u2019s class presidential campaign\u2014to the boardroom\u2014where she mentored executive leaders\u2014Kathy Pinkett \u201975 has spent her life lifting others. \u201cHelping others achieve their full potential brings me joy,\u201d she says. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pinkett began her career as a social worker before transitioning to Securian Financial Group, where she became the first person of color in the C-suite. As Chief Human Resources Officer, she strengthened diversity programs, helped propel the company into the Fortune 500, and remained a trusted adviser even after retirement. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In true Macalester spirit, Pinkett has embraced the principles of giving back through leadership roles on the boards of United Way, YWCA, and more. She brings that same energy to Macalester and has served on the Alumni Board and Board of Trustees. In 1999, she co-chaired the first Alumni of Color Reunion, which reengaged scores of alumni and helped spark the American Studies Department and the Department of Multicultural Life.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMacalester taught me to think expansively, critically, and respectfully,\u201d she says. \u201cTo ask, \u2018why not?\u2019 instead of \u2018why.\u2019\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Richard Solazzi \u201975<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Distinguished Citizen Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Dr.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

After participating in several medical missions, Richard Solazzi \u201975 grew frustrated with the impermanence of many medical aid models\u2014so the Seattle anesthesiologist set out to develop a sustainable program to support long-term, holistic collaborations with communities. In 2008, he and a partner formed a nonprofit that later evolved into Resolute Health Outreach. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The team partnered with Black Lion Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and soon expanded to a second hospital. Several times a year, Solazzi led volunteers\u2014anesthesiologists, nurses, medical technicians, and surgeons\u2014to work at the hospitals for two to three weeks at a time. Teams provided equipment and trained an expanding group of health care workers. Throughout, his inclusive approach has been grounded in equitable partnerships, fostering close connections among volunteers and the city\u2019s medical community. \u201cIn the process, Solazzi has bridged cultural, economic, religious, and political gaps, and formed many lifelong friendships,\u201d his nominator writes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although civil unrest in Ethiopia paused Resolute Health Outreach\u2019s travel in recent years, Solazzi works remotely to provide equipment, supplies, and other support. Today, he continues to drive Resolute Health Outreach\u2019s vision as president and board chair, with plans to return to Addis Ababa soon. Writes his nominator: \u201cRichard is a true representative of core Mac values in humanity, humility, inclusion, empathy, and internationalism.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Magdalena Mora \u201913<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Young Alumni Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Magdalena<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

As an illustrator and designer, Magdalena Mora \u201913 has built a career at the intersection of art, storytelling, and social justice. Her bold and evocative illustrations have brought to life children\u2019s books such as The Notebook Keeper and Tomatoes in My Lunchbox, offering young readers meaningful reflections on themes such as immigration, cultural identity, and family. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cBeyond her artistic accomplishments, what stands out most about Magdalena is her heart,\u201d her nominator writes. \u201cHer design philosophy stems from her belief in art as a form of activism, a means to challenge the status quo, and a platform to celebrate the beauty of diversity.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mora is committed to making children\u2019s literature more accessible and representative\u2014particularly for Latinx and immigrant communities. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her nominator writes: \u201cMagdalena is not only a product of her Macalester education but also a source of inspiration for others looking to use their own talents to make a difference. She shows how creativity, passion, and a commitment to social good can come together to change the world.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Daymond Dean \u201991<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alumni Service Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Daymond<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Every few weeks on Saturday mornings, you can find Daymond Dean at the Good Day Cafe in Golden Valley with a group of Mac classmates\u2014a tradition illustrating his deep belief in the power of relationships and community.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

His nominators call him an exceptional connector who has remained deeply connected to campus life since graduation\u2014serving on the Alumni Board and as a Strategic Planning Champion, volunteering with the M Club, nurturing intergenerational connections, recruiting committee volunteers, coaching football, and even working in Admissions and Alumni Engagement. He started at Mac with the Class of 1990 and graduated with the Class of 1991, but is so connected to both classes that he often helps plan both Reunions. It\u2019s no wonder he\u2019s earned the nickname \u201cMr. Macalester\u201d from peers.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Along the way, he has found that opportunities to learn and grow at Macalester extend far beyond graduation. \u201cI\u2019ve developed my voice through volunteering, and this community is a great space to practice leadership,\u201d he says. \u201cWhen you find such a caring community, you want to give your time to help sustain its mission and values.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Josh Aaker \u201905<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alumni Service Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Josh<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re a Macalester alum in Chicago, you\u2019ve likely encountered Josh Aaker \u201905 at Mac events\u2014especially the Nog and Gl\u00f6gg holiday party for alumni and parents that Aaker started in 2013 with his classmate Jeremy Barr. After the first gathering drew alumni spanning 30 years, Nog and Gl\u00f6gg has grown into a tradition\u2014and the longest-running volunteer-led event in the Mac alumni community.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also just one example of Aaker\u2019s deep dedication to building community across generations. In addition to his leadership in the Chicago chapter, he has hosted Mac in Your City events, served as a Class Agent, and helped shape Scots Pride programming in meaningful ways including planning Scots Pride Reunions. He has also served on four class Reunion committees, including for his 20th Reunion this year. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In Aaker\u2019s words: \u201cWhat inspires me and brings me joy is seeing the alumni network as a living, breathing community. It is amazing to watch brand-new grads swap ideas with those Golden Scots who\u2019ve been flying the tartan for decades. That\u2019s the collaboration that makes Mac special and keeps me proud to be part of it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Melvin Collins \u201975<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alumni Service Award<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Melvin<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Melvin Collins \u201975 learned firsthand about community engagement from his mother, who led his school\u2019s parent-teacher association, then served as an alderman in St. Louis local government. \u201cShe was my shining example,\u201d he says. \u201cShe always told us, \u2018Do what you can to make a difference\u2014you have gifts and skills that others don\u2019t, and you need to share.\u2019\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Collins carried that inspiration into a career path focused on nonprofit organizations, as a community leader, and through five decades of extraordinary dedication to Macalester. In 1999, he co-chaired the first Alumni of Color Reunion, shaping a meaningful gathering that spurred renewed engagement among many alumni of color. After that, Collins served for six years on the Alumni Board, then six more on the Board of Trustees. His many committee roles include co-chairing the Class of 1975\u2019s 50th Reunion Engagement Committee this year. His nominators marvel at his inclusive, visionary leadership style, and his ability to harness a group\u2019s energy and ideas to reach everyone\u2019s goals. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

He\u2019s motivated by ensuring future Macalester students have the same opportunities he did. \u201cOn this journey, how do we continue to add joy and add value?\u201d he says. \u201cVolunteering has been one way I knew I could do that.\u201d  <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alumni Award nominations are open now through October 1. Learn more: <\/span>macalester.edu\/alumni\/alumniawards<\/span><\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Meet the 2025 Alumni Award recipients.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":881,"featured_media":27913,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[45],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-27867","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-alumni","mediatype-articles"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"fields":{"article_type":[8],"flickr_photoset_id":"","youtube_id":"","square_thumbnail":false,"press_photos":false,"story_title":"","story_caption":"","rotations":false,"maps":false,"marker_title":"","marker_text":"","geographic_location":false,"feature_embed":"","custom_link_url":"","news_icon_name":"","image_options":false,"main_feature_story":"","custom_image":false,"custom_feature_title":"","custom_feature_caption":"","custom_markup":"","custom_markup_link":"","custom_markup_title":"","custom_markup_caption":"","byline":"","post_thumbnail_style":"default","press_downloads":false},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27867","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/881"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27867"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27867\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":29269,"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27867\/revisions\/29269"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27913"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27867"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27867"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.macalester.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27867"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}