APRIL 12, 2006

MOTTEP leader lauded for work encouraging organ donation

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land today awarded Remonia Chapman, director of the Minority Organ Tissue Transplant Education Program (MOTTEP) for Gift of Life Michigan, with a "Shining Star" for her tremendous dedication to the promotion of organ and tissue donation in Michigan.

Land created the Shining Star award to recognize those whose exceptional efforts encourage greater organ donor awareness. She presented Chapman with the award at a ceremony at the Flint Area SUPER!Center.

"Remonia is able to take a subject that is difficult for most people and convince them there is no reason to be afraid of sharing the gift of life and health with others," Land said. "She does a tremendous job promoting organ donation and inspires many people through her tireless and joyful devotion to the cause."

Chapman, of Detroit, frequently speaks to minority church and community groups across Michigan, educating them about organ donation so they can make well-informed decisions about whether to become donors. She also provides a preventative message to her audiences to encourage better health. Chapman’s efforts are credited with having encouraged many residents to donate.

She earned a bachelor’s degree for studies in psychology and biology from Wayne State University and a degree in urban ministry from Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit. As an ordained deacon with a background in the medical field, Chapman draws on both religious and medical knowledge in helping people discuss the often-uncomfortable subject of death and in answering questions they have about organ donation.

Chapman was nominated for the Shining Star award by Tammie Havermahl, public education coordinator of Gift of Life Michigan, a nonprofit organ and tissue recovery organization.

"For nearly a decade, Remonia Chapman has extended herself beyond the job description and shown a commitment to saving the lives of the citizens of Michigan," Havermahl said. "Remonia has created outstanding working relationships within multicultural communities around the country through her patience, determination and networking skills. She is a remarkable woman who shines in the hearts of many."

Chapman’s recognition coincides with Buddy Week, a public awareness campaign in which Gift of Life Michigan and Michigan Eye-Bank volunteers meet with the public at Secretary of State branch offices to discuss organ and tissue donation.

The department has a primary role in collecting names for Michigan’s organ, tissue and eye donor registry through its online enrollment program. Donor cards are also available in branch offices and are mailed with driver’s licenses and state identification cards. Land also encourages awareness through her Organ and Tissue Donor Advisory Committee and by fostering partnerships with advocates statewide.

Nearly 3,000 individuals are currently on a waiting list for an organ transplant in Michigan. For more information about the Shining Star award and other Department of State organ donor programs, please visit www.Michigan.gov/sos.