Lisa Spieker Honored with Pathfinder Award

A college librarian, a high school English teacher, a Somali student and a coffee shop are this year’s Mankato recipients of Pathfinder Awards.

The annual citations presented Wednesday by the Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Board recognize individuals and organizations that, in the spirit of King, are action takers in the struggle for equal treatment, human rights, and nonviolence.


Lisa Spieker said she broke down in tears when informed of her selection. The Rasmussen College librarian was cited for her work with the college’s diversity committee and her untiring devotion to educating the campus and community through displays, speaker panels and open discussions based on books and movies.

“Lisa sets an air and expectation of tolerance and respect from staff and students,” board members said. “(She) has created a culture where people can ask questions, respect and be respected, and learn from each other.”