IN MEMORY AND TRIBUTE OF TINU
The Tinu Abayomi-Paul Award
“For the ones who show up. For the ones who stay”
ABOUT THE AWARD
Honoring a spirit of showing up.
The Tinu Abayomi-Paul Award honors the life and legacy of Tinu Abayomi-Paul, whose passing in 2024 deeply affected this community. The award memorializes her spirit of showing up for others and her deep commitment to community.
Too often, organizations fail to spotlight the abundance of remarkable people within their communities. The Tinu Ayayomi-Paul Award exists to change that: to recognize an individual who embodies the essence of Tinu.
2026 Honoree
Syreeta Nolan
“Syreeta Nolan speaks truth to power while calling in communities and decision makers working for disability celebration and inclusion in higher education. She does this with joy and creativity that the world needs in these difficult times.”
— Nominated by Dawn Marie Gibson
THE NOMINEE COMMITTEE
Shaped by those closest to Tinu.
The award was shaped in collaboration with those closest to Tinu, who helped identify nominees reflecting her character and spirit. Tinu's family has been engaged throughout and is aware of the honor.
Dawn Marie Gibson
Michigan-based artist and Secretary of the National Pain Advocacy Center. Her practice spans writing, mixed media and fiber arts, and hand-raising butterflies in her home.
Bibi
Black disabled creator who runs Bibipins, a small business making disability aids in fun designs to support others.
Maelee Johnson
Builds safe spaces for the disability community through the Phoenix Alliance Foundation.