Richard Fleisher has dedicated his life to reaching underserved populations.

The West Virginia University Extension Service specialist and associate professor is the 2010 recipient of WVU’s Neil S. Bucklew Award for Social Justice.

“Rich Fleisher has distinguished himself in many ways for his leadership in social justice. He has been especially successful in promoting international understanding and connecting people of different cultures and backgrounds. His selection adds distinction to the roster of Neil Bucklew recipients,” said Jennifer McIntosh, executive officer for social justice.

Fleisher has worked at WVU since 1979. He is the co-chair of WVU Extension’s Global Education Team, and is co-principal investigator for the West Virginia Children, Youth and Families at-Risk Afterschool Project.

“I am thrilled and honored to receive this award. One of the real benefits of working for WVU Extension is that you get to serve people throughout the state. You reach and educate West Virginians of all ages and backgrounds and interests, and I see my social justice work as expanding awareness and helping people see differences from a broader perspective,” Fleisher said.

Fleisher teaches graduate classes for teachers on increasing capacity to work with Hispanic and low-income students and families. He has conducted poverty simulations for students, educators, health and social agency professionals, government and community leaders throughout West Virginia and in Maryland, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

He is the founder of The Regalos Elizabeth Fund, a nonprofit foundation that provides emergency grant assistance to low-income Hispanics in West Virginia. Fleisher has traveled and lead education and service projects throughout the Spanish-speaking world.

The Neil S. Bucklew Award for Social Justice recognizes the accomplishments of Neil S. Bucklew, whose leadership and vision led to the establishment of the WVU President’s Office for Social Justice. Faculty, staff and administrators who have been or are currently involved in the promotion of social justice can be nominated for the award. Recipients are given a $2,500 stipend.

Fleisher will be recognized during WVU’s Weekend of Honors April 9-11.

A list of past recipients and more information about the award can be found online at http://socialjustice.wvu.edu/news_and_events/the_neil_s_bucklew_award .

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cd/02/23/10

CONTACT: Sharon Mallow, President’s Office for Social Justice
304-293-5496, Sharon.Mallow@mail.wvu.edu