The event recognizes the achievements of those who contribute their time, energy, expertise and financial resources in giving back to the Oklahoma City community.

“The Dialogue Institute aims to promote mutual understanding and respect among people of different faiths, and this event embodies that idea by recognizing people from all cultures and belief systems that bring the message of coexistence and tolerance to the community,” said Ersin Demirci, Executive Director of the Dialogue Institute of Oklahoma, who noted that President Boren represents the mission of the Institute.

The Friendship Dinner and Awards Ceremony is an annual event of the Dialogue Institute, which promotes true dialogue between people from different backgrounds, cultures and faith as well as promotes a message of coexistence and tolerance in a respectful atmosphere.

President Boren is being presented the Leadership Award for the outstanding work on internationalization of the OU campus and his actions that have enabled OU to be a leader in discussion of tolerance nationally.