Carla Kappler, a member of the Latah County Human Rights Task Force was awarded the biennial Ismat Ara and Abdul Mannan Sheikh Community Unity Award Thursday at an open dinner in the 1912 Center.
“I don’t know what to say. I feel very emotional because — if I did something, (it) is because I have people like you, lives in Moscow. And I love Moscow,” Kappler said. “Thank you. I can’t
say more.
The award honors the memory of Isamt Ara and Abdul Mannan Sheikh, who were considered by the city to be outstanding citizens of the Moscow community. The award recognizes those who contribute to the harmony, welfare, diversity and civic life of Moscow, since 2005.
The award was presented to Kappler by Mayor Nancy Chaney. Kappler received a vase with her name, the year and “Sheikh Award” engraved on it, along with a glass pendant from Essential Glass Works of Moscow. Additionally, her name was placed on two plaques with past Sheikh Award recipients that will be placed in City Hall and East City Park.
Kappler said Moscow has been her town
since 1955.
“I came from Italy, when I was 25. And I came immediately to Moscow because my husband was teaching at the university,” Kappler said. “So, this is my town, my place, my people. And I never wanted to leave.”
Human Rights Commission Chair Ken Faunce said Kappler was very deserving of the award.
“I think she’s extremely deserving of the award, and of the nominations that came in, she definitely was on top,” Faunce said. “She spent an immense part of her life promoting human rights and diversity and bringing the community together. So, it’s a well-deserved award.”
Faunce said the award is a great way to honor the people who make Moscow a great place to live.
Ismat and Mannan Sheikh’s son, Mahmood Sheikh, also attended the event. He said seeing the award presented to a person like Kappler is
very meaningful.
“I knew her growing up, but I didn’t know all of her good deeds and, you know, the accolade she’s received from the community for the various initiatives she’s started and the various projects,” Sheikh said. “But what’s great is — my father passed away in 2001, and my mom passed away in 1997 — so even though we’re 15 years, 20 years down the road, still to come home and see someone who you grew up with get the award is
extremely meaningful.”
Approximately 60 people attended the event. Among the attendants were city council member Tom Lamar and newly elected council member
Arthur Bettge.