In honor of Black History Month, the Adams Center hosted two sessions celebrating Black influence in a variety of areas. Faculty in various fields of study shared the significance of Black influence in that field.
The first session included art, music, and film. Robert Green presented work by Kerry James Marshall and Kara Walker. Jeff Goolsby and Sam Cook highlighted Negro Spirituals and Gospel music with two student groups who each performed songs from these two musical styles. Leslie Reed Senter shared the history of Black Independent Cinema and then highlighted three current independent Black films: “Luce,” “Waves,” and “UnCorked.”
The second session featured literature, theology, and Black fraternities and sororities. Todd Womble discussed features of literature written by Black authors and/or featuring Black characters and themes relevant to the Black experience. He shared the following books: Salvage the Bones, Clotel or the President’s Daughter, Giovanni’s Room, Revival Season, Homegoing, and Memorial. Amy McLaughlin-Sheasby detailed the history of the Black church and Black theologians. Included among those highlighted were Howard Thurman, James Cone, Willie Jennings, M. Shawn Copeland, Delores Williams, Katie Cannon, Jacquelyn Grant, Emilie Townes, Esau McCaulley, and Gardner Taylor. Ramonica Scott provided the history of Black fraternities and sororities including dance steps, famous Black Americans associated with the various clubs, and the ongoing connection those in these organizations enjoy throughout their lives.
Everyone in attendance left encouraged and inspired by the individuals and contributions shared and by the expertise and passion of their colleagues. For more information about any of the material shared, please contact the bolded faculty associated with each category.