Congratulations to Dillard University and the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice (DSCEJ) for being among the 12 winners of the First Annual Environmental Justice Achievement Awards announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), October 21.

The awards recognize organizations for their distinguished accomplishments in addressing environmental justice issues, ranging from developing a tool to target high-risk homes with lead contamination to empowering residents to clean up New Orleans East for a safe return after Hurricane Katrina.

“EPA commends the Deep South Center and its fellow award recipients for their leadership in the field of environmental justice,” said EPA Regional Administrator Richard E. Green. “These organizations are making a positive impact in their communities by promoting a clean and healthy environment for all people.”

To be considered for the award, organizations are evaluated based on criteria, such as innovation, community responsibility, environmental justice integration, and demonstrated results, effectiveness, and sustainability.

Since Hurricane Katrina, the DSCEJ has focused much of its work on the research, policy, and community outreach needs of the displaced minority population of New Orleans. The Center has been engaged in job training and placement related to environmental cleanup, with a focus on training displaced New Orleans residents. As a result, the Center has mobilized minority residents to participate in the cleanup and rebuilding of New Orleans.

The entire Dillard community salutes and appreciates the hard work of the DSCEJ and its accomplishments.

Visit www.epa.gov