3rd Annual Community Servant’s Hummingbird Award Presented to Dr. Gwenuel (G.W.) Mingo

May 10, 2023 (Gainesville, Fla.) - Community Hospice & Palliative Care presented Gwenuel (G.W.) Mingo with the 3rd annual Community Servant’s Hummingbird Award (formerly known as the Community Legacy Award) Monday, May 9, at The Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center with many community leaders in attendance including Mr. Eric Godet, President and CEO of the Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce, who was the keynote speaker.  

The Community Servant’s Hummingbird Award honors members of the community who represent a servant’s heart through actions of community service, education, and community initiatives. This unique opportunity honors exceptional individuals who have positively led and influenced our community, who have chosen to serve the public, and represents a life dedicated to selflessly helping others. 

Gwenuel W. (G.W.) Mingo, a Florida native, began his higher education at Florida A&M University (FAMU). G.W. graduated with his bachelor's in Agricultural Science in 1963. After graduation, he entered the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged after serving for seven years and reaching the rank of Captain. He subsequently earned a Master of Education degree in Counseling and Guidance at Lincoln University in Missouri and taught there as an Assistant Professor of Military Science. G.W. ultimately earned his Ph.D. in Counselor Education at the University of Florida.

At the University of Florida, he served as the Director of the Upward Bound program and Student Support Services for over thirty years, helping thousands of students from low-income backgrounds become successful first-generation graduates from the colleges and universities of their choice. 

As a retiree, Dr. Mingo serves as a professional consultant to TRIO and other youth programs. Dr. Mingo serves as a Trustee of the Mount Olive A.M.E. Church in Gainesville, tutors children in Spanish, serves on the board for the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center, and is a USATF Certified Track Official where for nearly fifty years he has continued to stay connected to the sport he competed in at FAMU. 

“Community Hospice & Palliative Care recognizes like-minded individuals serving our community. It is a privilege and an honor to recognize these individuals publicly,” said Billie Dodd, North Central Florida Regional Director.  “Their efforts to improve the lives of others in the community and to be an advocate resonates with our mission vision and values.”