Susan Taylor of Essence receives the Shelia and Paul Wellstone Humanitarian Award

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his award is given to the individual who has demonstrated the ideals of the Minnesota senator and his wife. This year's receipient, Susan Taylor, is the editorial director of ESSENCE magazine. She directs all the editorial operations of the magazine and writes the popular column, "In the Spirit". She also oversees the content of all the divisions of the mulimedia organization and is launching a new magazine. In addition, she is the author of three books: In the Spirit: The Inspirational Writings of Susan L. Taylor, Lessons in Living and Confirmation: The Spiritual Wisdom That Has Shaped Our Lives.

Executive Director Oliver Willams says Taylor was chosen as the recipient of this award because of her dedication to healing and health of black people in the United States and around the world. "She is a great role model," says Williams. "She not only talks the talk; she walks the walk."

She has received a host of editorial awards and is an avid supporter of groups dedicated to advancing the black community. She also works on initiatives to assist disadvantaged women and teenagers in becoming independent. Taylor is the co-chair with Danny Glover of a capital campaign to raise money to build housing in rural areas of South Africa.

Williams added that he is grateful to Taylor for her commitment to IDVAAC and the work the Institute is doing. "She took time out from her vacation to attend our last conference. Her extraordinary support has been a real gift."