AUBURN, Ala. (EETV) - Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences hosted the 27th annual International Quality of Life Awards on Monday. Traditionally hosted in New York City, this year’s unusual circumstances forced the awards ceremony to be held virtually. The goal of the International Quality of Life Awards is to honor individuals and organizations that go above and beyond to improve quality of life in their community. This year, the ceremony honored those that were able to improve the quality of life in their community amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The “Heroes of COVID-19” honored at this year’s ceremony included health care professionals,
nonprofit organizations, teachers and education leaders, and many more.
Of those recognized as “Heroes of COVID-19,” Nick Davis was honored for “his work as owner of Momma Goldberg’s Deli, his unwavering support of Auburn University, his support of the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center, and his inspiring spirit.” Davis then honored Julie Broadway for her creation of a virtual learning community for employees of The Broadway Group. Broadway’s virtual learning community served parents and children that needed a reliable place to work, learn, and play during the pandemic.
“Julie decided that since her gymnastics school could not operate normally, she would use that facility to provide breakfast, lunch, instruction time and technical support to children of their employees for the entire school day,” Davis stated. “Julie created this opportunity for parents of children from kindergarten to
12th grade, and that’s why I think she’s a hero.”
In turn, Julie Broadway honored the leaders of the Alabama Prison Birth Project: Ashley Lovell and Chauntel Norris. Lovell and Norris are Heroes of COVID-19 because of their efforts through the Alabama Prison Birth Project to ensure the health and safety of children born to incarcerated mothers. The Project supports the mothers during
pregnancy and makes sure that the mothers have time to bond with their newborns. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Alabama Prison Birth Project expanded their efforts to the Julia Tutwiler Prison in Wetumpka to assist and educate pregnant inmates, deliver healthy meals, and share technology to meet
with expecting mothers in-person.
Beth Thorne Stukes presented a donation to the International Quality of Life Awards and honored the Walker Area Community Foundation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Walker Area Community Foundation provided hot meals and groceries, created a hotline for those out of work, and mobilized donations to support their community
in Walker County, Alabama. In addition to their extensive community support during the pandemic, when a tornado struck Walker County in April, the Walker Area Community Foundation was on the frontlines of support during that
disaster.
“For close to three decades, the International Quality of Life Awards has honored individuals and organizations that have made significant and lasting contributions to individual, family and community well-being locally and around
the world,” said College of Human Sciences Dean Susan Hubbard. “Even though we couldn’t gather in person in New York City as we’ve done for the past 26 years, we knew during this unprecedented year, it was more important than ever to celebrate those who devote their lives to improving quality of life for all.”
For the full list of 2020 International Quality of Life Awards winners, visit iqla.auburn.edu.
