Diane Finnerty's work helps create inclusive communities and organizations.

"My primary focus is social justice education around issues of cultural competence, diversity, white privilege and sexual identity," Finnerty said.

Finnerty, as a staff member for the University of Iowa School of Social Work, recently received a $4.6 million grant to work with rural Latino communities in Iowa, Minnesota, Idaho and Oregon.

"I want to do what I can to make our communities healthy, vibrant and sustainable environments for everyone to live and grow. I really believe what harms one, harms us all," Finnerty said.

Finnerty quotes Lilla Watson, an Aboriginal artist and activist who lives in Brisbane, Australia, to sum up why she does what she does: "If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you've come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us work together."

"She is reported to have said these words while greeting 'helping professionals' at the edge of her village as they came to work with her community," Finnerty said. "I think everyone has a contribution to make. Mine is in the area of social justice education and community activism."

- Jason Spangler