The University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy honored Wayne State University School of Medicine Associate Professor of Internal Medicine Eric Ayers, M.D., for his ongoing service to the Detroit community during the 26th annual Black Awareness Society for Education Conference and Alumni Reunion, held March 3 at the school.
Dr. Ayers is a 1980 alumnus of the high school and a 1989 graduate of the WSU School of Medicine. He was recognized for his "multiple achievements as a teacher, educator, community activist, mentor/adviser and academic, exemplifying the true spirit of the Jesuit motto 'Men for Others,' which encourages striving for the betterment of all," event organizers said.
Dr. Ayers is section chief of Med-Peds, a clinical program based in the department's divisions of General Internal Medicine and General Pediatrics-Adolescent Medicine. He also directs the Med-Peds Residency Program.
The Black Awareness Society for Education, or BASE, was founded in 1991 by U of D Jesuit students in a response to racial tensions experienced then at U of D and nationally. It was created to foster racial unity among U of D Jesuit students, metropolitan Detroit high schools and the greater community. More than a quarter-century later, the organization is thriving and expanding to area high schools, and continues to work at addressing issues of race and racial disparities.
Dr. Ayers' recent award marks his second post-graduation honor from U of D Jesuit. He was previously recognized as an Alumnus of the Year.
"It is humbling to receive one award from a place that helped in the development of the person that you have become. To receive two is truly an achievement in one's life," Dr. Ayers said.
U of De Jesuit students selected him as a U of D Jesuit Star during Black History Month as well.
The evening's honorees also included Chris Polk, a former WSU staff member who founded the 503b nonprofit Legacy Associates Foundation in 1991, which provides academic scholarships; and Nick Mutebi, a senior Wayne State University basketball player who raised more than 30,000 pounds of clothing for Uganda; among other outstanding alumni.