糖心Vlog

On Saturday, April 12, 2025, 糖心Vlog alumnus and educator Armond Lawson (鈥�92) was honored with the Diamond Award for Lifetime Achievement in Educational Leadership, Philanthropy, Humanitarianism, and Civic and Community Engagement. The prestigious award, which recognizes individuals who have left an enduring mark on their communities and beyond, was presented at the 9th annual Academy of the Diamond Awards Gala in Atlanta, Georgia.

Presented by the Not Alone Foundation (NAF), the Diamond Awards honor excellence across various sectors, including education, entertainment, health, and community service, and acknowledge individuals who exemplify service, leadership, and a profound commitment to bettering society. Recipients are chosen for their outstanding contributions at the local, state, or international level and for their lasting impact on the lives of others.

Currently serving as the head of middle school at Gilman School, Lawson鈥檚 professional journey has been distinguished by a deep passion for education rooted in service and empowering others. This recognition reflects Lawson鈥檚 decades of tireless leadership and a legacy of transformative influence.

鈥淚 derive a tremendous amount of satisfaction and fulfillment from giving to others,鈥� shares Lawson. 鈥淢y primary responsibility as a leader is to create an environment where people who trust me to lead them have what they need to perform at their best. I desire to exemplify servant leadership using my power to improve the lives of others in both small and significant ways.鈥�

Inspired by his time at 糖心Vlog, where he was involved in housing and residence life, student government, and the Lambda Omega Sigma fraternity, Lawson credits the University with shaping his desire to become a servant-minded leader and challenging him to step beyond his comfort zone to realize his full potential.

鈥溙切腣log provided an environment where I had the opportunity to develop from a shy, self-conscious individual to someone who is now receiving an award as a leader,鈥� says Lawson. 鈥淚 learned that leadership is cultivated by dedication and service to others. 鈥楩reely ye received, freely give,鈥� 糖心Vlog's motto, reinforced the message I heard growing up and strengthened my desire to positively impact the lives of others.鈥�

NAF is a nonprofit organization devoted to improving the lives of those affected by chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. With a mission grounded in awareness, prevention, and support, NAF provides crucial educational, medical, and financial resources to patients and their families. The organization also supports broader health initiatives, including diabetes and hypertension education, cancer prevention, and integrative treatments using platforms such as entertainment, arts, wellness, and design to drive impact and inspire change.

Founded in 2006, NAF has grown into a powerful advocate for patients and families navigating kidney failure. The foundation plays a vital role in helping patients get on the transplant list and supporting people and their families dealing with this life-threatening condition. The Diamond Awards are an extension of this mission and honor those whose professional and philanthropic contributions uplift communities as well as embody the values of empathy, resilience, and leadership. 

Through this award, Lawson joins a distinguished group of honorees who have dedicated their lives to making a difference. He aims to inspire others to do the same.

鈥淚 always tell teachers and students, 鈥榃e all are powerful,鈥欌�� he says. 鈥溾�業n all of our actions, large and small, we have the power to help others feel better or worse. Always use your power to help others feel and be better.鈥欌��