TPUUF 2019 Matthew Shepard Award presented to Debi Galvin

Matthew Shepard Award Lobby Plaque

The Matthew Shepard Award was envisioned and developed by the Welcoming Congregation Task Force, the forerunner of today’s Welcoming Congregation Team.   It was created to periodically recognize a member or friend’s efforts to encourage compassion, understanding, and acceptance by manifesting the Welcoming Congregation concept in their life.  The award consists of a certificate and a pendant in the form of a titanium circle with the words ERASE HATE on one side and COMPASSION, UNDERSTANDING, and ACCEPTANCE on the reverse.  A plaque in the Fellowship lobby has Matt’s picture on it, a description of the award, and a nameplate honoring each recipient.

Debi has fulfilled this goal for many years with unwavering support as an ally and, as a faculty advisor for LGBTQ youth. She serves as a faculty advisor for the Methacton High School GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) and, as such, Debi has certainly taken our WC concept into her life in the community. Congratulations, to a very deserving recipient this year!