Loyola University New Orleans has awarded the 2025 Unsung Hero Award to Paula Atchley, MRE, and Lindy Brasher, MRE, both graduates of the Loyola Institute of Ministry (LIM). The award recognizes individuals who embody the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s enduring legacy of unity, service, and compassion. The recipients were honored at the inaugural MLK Interfaith Convocation for Unity, held Tuesday, January 21st in the Chapel of St. Ignatius Loyola on Loyola's main campus.
Lindy Brasher serves as the University Minister for Social Justice at Loyola, where she lives on campus as a Resident Minister fostering a supportive community anchored in Jesuit values. Her dedication to social justice extends beyond campus boundaries through her role as a spiritual advisor to individuals on death row at the Louisiana State Penitentiary. The person who nominated her wrote:
"She exemplifies justice and compassion, radiating love in everything she does. I have witnessed her comfort the homeless—drying their tears, sharing her own clothing, and tirelessly offering them hope and, most importantly, love. I saw her courageously stand in defense of the LGBTQIA+ community when a religious organization sought to undermine their dignity. Her boundless compassion reaches those society often neglects, including individuals on death row, as well as all of God's creation, both great and small."
Paula Atchley, as Assistant Director of Campus Visits and Events, has distinguished herself through her exceptional ability to build bridges across Loyola's diverse community. In addition to coordinating seamless interactions among students, faculty, staff, parents, and volunteers, she has made an indelible impact as a mentor to international students, helping create an inclusive environment where students from around the world can flourish. Of Paula, her nominator wrote:
"She lives out the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by cultivating positive relationships throughout the entire Admissions Department from students to staff and faculty members. She truly encapsulates the Jesuit values through organizing and executing all campus visit events, uplifting students to become confident in themselves and their abilities, and showcasing the good in all people that she comes across.
Not only does she live out the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through her employment, she also displays her commitment through community service. She is a frequent volunteer for multiple food pantries, while also organizing toiletry donations for homeless showers at the St. Joseph Church on Tulane Avenue."