The Paul & Paula Murphy Annual Human Sexuality Award
Ruth Ann Russell, Denver, will receive the 2024 Paul and Paula Murphy Human Sexuality Award from the Board of Directors of the Center for Health and Hope. The honor will be bestowed at the annual Gathering to H.E.A.L. (Helping End AIDS in our Lifetime) Breakfast at Hope United Methodist Church, Greenwood Village, on Saturday, September 28, 2024.
The Murphy Award is designated for a "pastor or layperson" who has advanced the discussion of human sexuality and/or human rights within a religious organization.'' It recognizes the pioneering human rights work within church and society of the late Rev. Paul and Dr. Paula Murphy, founding members of the Center’s Board.
“Russell epitomizes how human rights advocacy and acceptance can become normative in daily living,” noted Dr. Donald E. Messer, Center Executive Director. “Whether focused on the stigmatized of Africa or America, she speaks forthrightly and acts affirmatively.”
"When Don told me about the award, I was speechless," said Ruth Ann. "I was so very surprised and honored and grateful. I loved and admired Paula and Paul Murphy so this deeply impacts me to receive this award. I have volunteered for the Center for Health and Hope for many years and so respect and admire the work done by the Center."
The Paul & Paula Murphy Annual Human Sexuality Award Guidelines
Paul & Paula Murphy
On September 16, 2012, the Board of Directors (“Board”) of the Center established an annual award to be funded from a bequest to the Center from the estates of Paul and Paula Murphy (Bequest”). The purpose of this award is to honor a pastor or layperson who has significantly advanced the discussion of human sexuality and/or the human rights of LGBT persons within a religious organization or institution. These Guidelines set forth the requirements for selection of award recipients and award disbursement.
The award criteria shall be that the individual has evidenced a consistent message which advocates for open discussion of human sexuality in the context of a religious institution or organization, and which promotes the full and complete acceptance and participation of the LGBT community in that institution or organization. Specific considerations should include, but not be limited to, sermons, positions espoused in spoken and written word, involvement in advocacy, programs developed and LGBT community outreach. The effectiveness of the individual’s efforts should also be taken into consideration, if measurable.
