February is Black History Month and Samford University plans to mark the occasion with several events for students, faculty and community members to enjoy. The Office of Student Success and Diversity (OSSD) is partnering with several departments across campus to provide important and exciting experiences that celebrate and acknowledge Black history.
Since 1976, every United States president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Its origins date back to 1915 when Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E. Moorland founded today’s Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The organization is dedicated to researching and promoting achievements by Black Americans and other peoples of African descent.
“As an academic institution devoted to continual learning, the Office of Student Success and Diversity is excited to provide opportunities to learn, grow and celebrate Black history throughout the month of February. We hope everyone in our campus community can find a way to participate in these events that foster Christ-centered love, awareness and fellowship,” said Denise Gregory, associate provost for student success and diversity and inclusion.
For more information on how you can take part in Black History Month at Samford, follow @samforddiverse on Instagram and Facebook.
Events
Office of Student Success and Diversity Meet-and-Greet
Feb. 12, 3:30– 5 p.m.
Dwight Beeson Hall 326
Meet De’Janae Tookes, the new assistant director of multicultural initiatives and events in the Office of Student Success and Diversity. In her position, Tookes is responsible for a number of important initiatives that advance Samford’s mission through the office, as well as working alongside students to create a welcoming and supportive campus community.
30th Annual Thurgood Marshall Symposium
Feb. 13, 5 p.m.
Cooney Hall 400, Regions Community Resource Room
The 30th Annual Thurgood Marshall Symposium will focus on voting rights issues in Alabama through the discussion of the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling regarding Alabama's congressional district map.
Attorney Abha Khanna, a partner in Elias Law Group’s Litigation practice, successfully argued the recent Milligan's case, resulting in a historic U.S. Supreme Court ruling that Alabama's congressional district map violated the VRA by diluting the votes of Black residents.
The event is sponsored by Cumberland School of Law’s Black Law Students Association in partnership with the Office of Student Success and Diversity.
One hour of continuing legal education (CLE) credit is offered for Alabama attorneys.
Convocation credit is available for Samford University students.
The Secret to Becoming Mentally Strong, with Jah'zmin Duncan, Samford counselor
Feb. 15, 10 a.m.
Cooney Hall 400, Regions Community Resource Room
University counselor Jah’zmin Duncan, will be speaking on behalf of Samford’s Counseling and Wellness Office to provide tips and resources on mental health and wellness.
Convocation credit is available for Samford University students.
Lunch and Learn with Samford’s Black Nurses Association
Feb. 19, 11:30 a.m.
Dwight Beeson Hall 410, Faculty Success Center
Jennifer Coleman, professor in Samford’s Moffett & Sanders School of Nursing, will serve as the speaker for this event. Registration is required.
“Face to Face with Race”
Feb. 19, 5 p.m.
Cooney Field House, 3rd Floor
“Face to Face with Race” is hosted by the Office of Student Success and Diversity in partnership with Student Life and Counseling and Wellness.
Join us for dinner and a round table discussion about race and cultural perspective, with Chef Raquel Ervin
Convocation credit and Organization Awards Points are available for Samford University students.
Samford Basketball Game featuring National Pan-Hellenic Council
Feb. 24, 2 p.m.
Pete Hanna Center
Samford Gospel Choir Concert
Feb. 29, 10 a.m.
University Center, Harry’s Coffeehouse
Convo credit is available.
Black History Month Gala
Feb. 29, 8 p.m.
Cooney Hall 400, Regions Community Resource Room