The Department congratulates Ola Smialek, a PhD Candidate in Regional Planning at UMass, who was honored with the 2025 Sankofa Sage Award at Westfield State University. Smialek is currently a Visiting Lecturer in the Geography, Planning, and Sustainability Department at Westfield State, while also teaching classes in the First Year Journey and Honors Programs.
The Sankofa Sage Award recognizes faculty and staff who have been dedicated to creating an environment of belonging, supporting social justice, and making a profound impact on the Westfield State community.