PITTSBURGH — La Roche University has selected Rwandan educator Yohani Kayinamura, Ph.D., as the first recipient of its Best for the World Award, recognizing his work supporting vulnerable children in Rwanda. The 2004 graduate will receive the award on October 16 during the university’s homecoming celebrations.
Created to mark the 150th anniversary of the Sisters of Divine Providence in America, the award recognizes lasting contributions to society through service and leadership. University President Christina A. Clark said, “Yohani’s life embodies our call to students and alumni to be the best for the world.”
Kayinamura attended La Roche through its Pacem in Terris program. He subsequently founded Umuryango Children’s Network, which, according to the university, supports more than 400 children in Rwanda through education, mentorship, stable care and opportunities for personal development.
His approach connects educational opportunity with responsibility toward others. “Grace was never meant to end with me, but to pass through me,” Kayinamura said in the university’s announcement.
The Embassy of Rwanda in the United States welcomed the recognition. “Congratulations to Kayinamura Yohani, a member of the Rwandan Community in the United States!” the embassy wrote in the social media announcement provided for this report.
The recognition highlights a Rwandan diaspora contribution that links American higher education with sustained investment in children and families in Rwanda.
