The 15th annual James A. Perkins Prize for Interracial Harmony and Understanding was presented April 15 to MOSAIC -- For Queer and Same Gender Loving People of Color, a student-run social support group that has raised awareness of racial, gender and sexual diversity through social outreach, peer support and inclusive programming over the 2008-09 academic year.

Two organizations received honorable mentions. Cornell's Prison Education Program provides classes for inmates at the Auburn Prison and the Cayuga Correctional Facility and the opportunity to earn associate's degrees through Cayuga Community College. Bridges to Community at Cornell is a nonprofit community development organization that sends volunteers to developing countries to build houses, work in other ways and learn.

The award were presented by Cornell President David Skorton, trustee emeritus Thomas W. Jones '69, Vice President for Student and Academic Services Susan Murphy and Kent L. Hubbell, the Robert W. and Elizabeth C. Staley Dean of Students.

Jones established the Perkins Prize in 1995 to promote the advancement of campus interracial understanding and to honor former Cornell President James A. Perkins.