USNA News Article

USNA Dean of Admissions Receives MLK Award

Jan 13, 2012

from the U.S. Naval Academy Public Affairs Office

Naval Academy Dean of Admissions Stephen B. Latta received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Award at the 24nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Dinner Jan. 13 in Glen Burnie, Md.

The Drum Major Award is presented to individuals and organizations who have demonstrated, through their words and actions, a commitment to the dream of Dr. King. The award is given annually to recipients locally and nationwide.

The Naval Academy student body has become increasingly diverse during Latta.s administration of the Admissions Department. Minority applications increased from 2,300 in 2006 to nearly 6,900 in 2011. So far, minorities make up nearly a third of the applicants for the Class of 2016.

Minority participation in the department.s summer outreach programs also expanded. Forty percent of the applications for the 2011 Naval Academy Summer Seminar came from minority students. Minority applications for the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Camp increased from 397 in 2009 to 1,714 in 2011.

The awards dinner, hosted by the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, provides an opportunity for the community to focus on the visions and ideals of Dr. King and to share those values with each other. The dinner was founded in 1988 by Annapolis Alderman Carl O. Snowden to honor Dr. King.s legacy by honoring men and women who keep his values alive through their deeds, words and actions.

The 2012 event included a keynote speech by King.s daughter Bernice A. King and performance by the Naval Academy Gospel Choir.

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee consists of volunteers from various racial backgrounds who meet monthly to plan the annual awards dinner as well as the annual Fannie Lou Hamer Reception which honors women who have made contributions to the community, state and nation. Award recipients are selected by sponsoring organizations.