The Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies program at Illinois State University is accepting nominations and self-nominations for the Grabill-Homan Community Peace Prize, which is named for Joseph L. Grabill and the late Gerlof D. Homan, Illinois State University emeritus professors of history who helped establish the interdisciplinary Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies program.

The Grabill-Homan Community Peace Prize recognizes individual achievements in peacemaking, leadership, community service, and activism. The award recipient will be presented with a plaque in the spring of 2025.

To be eligible, a nominee must be a resident of Bloomington or Normal and be at least 21 years of age. Eligible individuals must have a record of participation in peacemaking activities in the community. Examples of such activities include activities in the areas of civil rights, cross-cultural understanding, economic and social justice, environmental protection, as well as activities that help advance peace and human dignity. Nominees should have a record of peaceful conflict resolution, leadership, integrity, and compassion and demonstrate respect for all individuals. Nominees may demonstrate these personal attributes and a record of peacemaking activities in any area, including the workplace, family life, or volunteer work.

The following materials are required for all nominations or self-nominations for the Grabill-Homan Community Peace Prize:

  • Nominees should provide a brief resume that highlights their relevant peacemaking activities.
  • Two letters of support are required. These letters should be from individuals who can speak to the impact of the nominee’s activities and initiatives on the community.
  • A brief 300-500 word description of a community need that should receive public attention is also required. This description should be written by the nominee, and the community need should have a peace and conflict resolution dimension.

Nominations must be received no later than January 31, 2025. Please send nominations via email attachment (Microsoft Word or PDF files) to Dr. Noha Shawki, who can be contacted by e-mail at nohashawki@IllinoisState.edu. Any questions can be directed to Dr. Noha Shawki.