Givan earns MLK honor from Indiana Civil Rights Commission

January 15, 2025

Lisa Givan, vice president for institutional diversity, equity and belonging at Indiana Tech, has earned the Indiana Civil Rights Commission’s (ICRC) Rev. Charles Williams Award for 2025.

Givan’s award is one of several that will be presented to individuals who follow in the footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in pursuit of equality, social justice and opportunities for all Hoosiers. She will receive her award during the 34th Annual State of Indiana Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Celebration on Friday, Jan. 17, at 12 p.m., in the North Atrium of the Indiana Statehouse. The celebration will be live-streamed to the public; visit in.gov/icrc for more information.

“I am deeply appreciative of the impactful work Lisa has done not only at our university on behalf of our students, faculty and staff, but also within the Fort Wayne community,” said Indiana Tech President Dr. Karl W. Einolf. “All of us in the Indiana Tech community congratulate her for this well-deserved recognition.”

Givan is a transformative leader in diversity and inclusion at Indiana Tech and the Fort Wayne community. Her creation and launch of the Leveraging Engagement and Action in Diversity (L.E.A.D.) executive certificate program has achieved national recognition and strengthened ties between Indiana Tech and its corporate partners. She has risen to leadership roles within the National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE), driving initiatives that expand diversity’s impact across higher education. Beyond her professional contributions, Lisa funds a scholarship for Black students, exemplifying her personal dedication to equity. Recognized with prestigious honors, including the GFW Inc. Champions of Change Award and the ACE Women’s Network Distinguished Women Leader Award, Lisa’s work continues to inspire change and empower communities.

The Indiana Civil Rights Commission enforces the civil rights laws of the State of Indiana. It investigates complaints of discrimination and educate organizations, companies, landords, associations and individuals on their rights and responsibilities under Indiana civil rights laws.