meet our honorees

Inspired by the spirit of service championed by Russell H. Conwell, the founder of Temple University, the Community Diamond Awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations whose work strengthens communities and advances public health.

Each year, the Temple University Barnett College of Public Health honors community partners who embody a commitment to service, leadership, and meaningful impact across Philadelphia — particularly in North Philadelphia.

About the Community Diamond Awards

Public health is strongest when institutions and communities work together.

The Community Diamond Awards were established to celebrate the individuals and organizations who partner with the Temple University Barnett College of Public Health to improve health, expand opportunity, and uplift communities across Philadelphia.

These honorees represent the people who step forward to do what is needed — often without seeking recognition — because they believe in making their communities stronger and healthier.

By recognizing their contributions, the college seeks to amplify their stories, celebrate their impact, and inspire the next generation of community leaders.

Recognizing Community Impact

The Community Diamond Awards highlight individuals and organizations whose work reflects the mission and values of the Barnett College of Public Health.

Nominees may be recognized for efforts such as:

  • Serving vulnerable or underserved populations

  • Advancing health equity and access to care

  • Leading community-based programs or initiatives

  • Supporting youth, families, veterans, or other priority populations

  • Addressing critical issues such as mental health, violence prevention, or community development

  • Building meaningful partnerships that improve community health

Preference is given to nominees who serve Philadelphia communities, particularly North Philadelphia.

How Awardees Are Selected

Nominations are reviewed by the College of Public Health Community Engagement Committee, which evaluates candidates based on their service, impact, and alignment with the mission of the Temple University Barnett College of Public Health.

Up to three individuals or organizations are selected each year to receive the Community Diamond Award.

Nominate a Community Leader

Do you know an individual or organization making a meaningful difference in the Philadelphia community?

We invite members of the Temple community and our partners to nominate those whose work embodies the spirit of service and community impact.

Nominations include information about the nominee’s work, the communities they serve, and how their contributions align with the mission of the Barnett College of Public Health.

PLEASE NOTE THE NOMINATION DEADLINE CLOSED FEBRUARY 13, 2026

2025 Ceremony

Meet our Honorees

2025 Honorees

Gwen Collier-Jefferson is a dedicated community advocate, leader, and lifelong Kensington resident whose work has touched every corner of North Philadelphia. 

Through her leadership and compassion, Gwen has built programs and partnerships that support youth, families, and seniors alike. Her work covers many vital areas—community health, mental health advocacy, mentorship, and neighborhood engagement. Whether organizing wellness programs, leading community resource fairs, or training new community health workers, she consistently finds ways to empower others and strengthen her community from within. 

Gwen’s impact extends beyond her direct service.  Her trusted presence in the community has been instrumental in building bridges between research and real life, ensuring that projects addressing urgent community needs like COVID-19 vaccine access and the health effects of rising urban heat, are both credible and impactful. 

Gwen embodies the BCPH’s mission to educate, innovate, and transform—not through words, but through daily action.  She is a true champion of community health and well-being whose dedication continues to inspire lasting change across Kensington and beyond. 

More about the New Kensington Community Development Corporation

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As the founder and leader of Live to Serve, Jay Kennedy’s compassion and commitment to community have touched countless lives across Philadelphia. 

When first meeting Jay, it is clear that his dedication to engaging, enriching, and empowering others runs deep. His approach to service is both compassionate and transformative—meeting people where they are, offering not only resources, but hope, encouragement, and dignity.  His guiding principle, “I see you, I hear you, I’m here for you”, is more than a motto—it is the foundation of everything he does. Whether providing food, clothing, and toiletries to those in need or giving his own coat to someone facing the cold, Jay leads with heart.  

Jay’s work perfectly aligns with BCPH’s mission to advance health through education, service, and community engagement. By addressing systemic barriers and empowering communities to define their own needs and solutions, Jay reminds us that service is not about recognition—it’s about humanity.  He is a true community leader and advocate. 

More about Live to Serve