The Multi-Cultural Center hosted its third-annual All People’s Recognition ceremony Friday to award those who were nominated by the Sacramento State community.

Celebrating the contributions that faculty, staff and students have made to create an engaging environment at Sac State, the Multi-Cultural Center recognized its community with certificates, raffle prizes and food for everyone to enjoy.

The Multi-Cultural Center filled the room with almost 200 people, the majority of whom were nominated to receive recognition by the center. The event also included live music and spoken word poetry by students.

Jeanette Plascencia, an interim assistant director for the Multi-Cultural Center and coordinator for the event, said it is important to recognize people who are not noticed for the significant changes they have made in someone’s life.

“This event allows students, faculty and staff to nominate each other for any kind of services or deeds they have done where they have left a lasting impression,” Plascencia said. “It is important for people to be appreciated for everything they do, big or small.”

Although this is the third year the Multi-Cultural Center has held the All People’s Recognition ceremony, this year’s event almost doubled in the amount of nominees Plascencia said.

“I was thrilled to see so many people nominated this year,” Plascencia said. “It is important to bring the campus community together to share their experiences and thank all those who have accomplished so much while participating in the Multi-Cultural Center.”

Working with 20 clubs and other organizations, the Multi-Cultural Center provided more than 50 programs this year at Sac State, Plascencia said.

While the Sac State community gathered together to celebrate those nominated, Jazmin Maldonado, junior sociology major, said she enjoyed seeing the Multi-Cultural Center full of people having a great time and engaging with one another.

“I am happy to see so many people involved in the center,” Maldonado said. “I am honored to be a part of the center and flattered for being nominated by my friend Jafahri. It was a great surprise.”

Jafahri Oler, senior sociology major, said he nominated Maldonado for being a great person to talk to. He said she always seems to bring a smile even when you are mad.

Oler said the Multi-Cultural Center is a great place that makes people feel good about themselves and where people can embrace their own identity while engaging with the community.

First-time nominee Jennifer Wood, staff and co-chair of the advisory council, said it is important to see Sac State as a community and to get involved on campus to become more aware of what the campus provides for its students and faculty.

“While working for servicing students with disabilities, I believe the Multi-Cultural Center is a great resource to raise awareness for students and faculty to understand people in their community are underrepresented; either disabled or of different ethnicity,” Wood said. “It is important to connect with the campus to become more involved and be open to help their community.”