As PBHA prepares to honor Judy Norsigian at the 18th annual Robert Coles “Call of Service” Lecture and Award, we take a moment to reflect on the legacy of service embodied by remarkable individuals who also received this prestigious award. Each story in this series celebrates their unique contributions to public service, showcasing how their dedication has inspired countless others and left a lasting impact on communities.

Check out these resources to prepare the 18th Robert Coles "Call of Service" Awardee and Lecturer, Judy Norsigian!

Peruse Ruby Bridges inspiring words on courage and compassion at the 17th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Lecture from 2023.

Unravel this recap on Loretta J. Ross' lecture on reproductive justice at the 16th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2022.

Dive into Mia Mingus' lecture on dismantling harm and breaking free of oppressive systems at the 15th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2021.

Look into Tarana Burke's lecture on empowering change through healing and advocacy at the 14th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2020.

Visit Christina Jiménez's lecture on urging community liberation at the 13th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2019.

Dive into Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz's inspiring message on embracing individual calls of service at 12th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Lecture from 2018.

Learn about Nihad Awad's lecture on combating religious and ethnic discrimination at the 11th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2017.

Dig into Monica Roberts' lecture on the fight for transgender rights at 10th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2016.

Review Alicia Garza's outstanding message on Black Lives Matter and the call for justice at the 9th Robert Coles “Call to Service” Lecture from 2015.

Delve into Robert Moses' lecture on the fight for rights at the 8th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2014

Uncover Ernesto Cortés' memorable lecture on democracy and organizing at the 6th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2012.

Discover Dorothy Stoneman's lecture on breaking cycles and fostering leadership at the 5th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2011.

Explore Arne Duncan's lecture on the power of education at the 4th Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2010.

Read about Geoffrey Canada's powerful lecture on education reform at the 3rd Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony from 2009.

Read about Al Gore's vision for a sustainable future at the 2nd Robert Coles “Call of Service” Lecture from 2008.

Read about how Marian Wright Edelman stood up for children's rights at the 1st Robert Coles “Call of Service” Award Ceremony and Lecture in 2007.

Many PBHA alumni have made meaningful contributions to civil and human rights, leveraging their experiences to drive impactful change. Some have become Assistant U.S. Attorneys General and founded initiatives focused on economic justice and community organizing. Others have excelled in philanthropy through foundations that promote social equity, while many have taken on essential roles in legal assistance organizations, advocating for marginalized communities. This section highlights a few of these individuals who have translated their PBHA experiences into broader, transformative efforts.