Bay Path University’s 2nd Annual Black History Month Symposium Celebrates Black Excellence
Students pin the places that represent their lineage.
Asha Manning's head wrapping workshop draws a crowd.
Meggan Mwangi poses after having her hair wrapped.
Prof. Janine Fondon and Lujuana Hood present, “Untold Stories: Black Women On the Move.”
Elizabeth Cardona, Executive Director of Multicultural Affairs and International Student Life; Assistant to the Provost for Diversity and Inclusion, stops for a photo.
Dr. Janine Spinola Taylor tells the audience her story.
ALANA's (African American - Latina - Asian - Native American - Allies) display at the resource fair.
Jewelry and artwork available at the Symposium.
Students engaging in conversation during the Symposium.
Bay Path University recently held its 2nd Annual Black History Month Symposium at the Philip H. Ryan Health Science Center. The event consisted of student- and staff-led workshops around the theme, “Black Excellence.” People of all ethnicities were invited to come together to celebrate and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the black community. Local vendors and clubs and organizations from Bay Path also enhanced public awareness about black history and diversity at the event.
The Symposium featured interactive performances from Motherland, a club that connects the student body to African ancestry through dance and performances. Attendees were able to join in the dancing, and take part in workshops on topics such as head wrapping, goal setting, student activism, how to establish and repair personal credit, and Black History Jeopardy! Other highlights included a presentation from Chair of the Undergraduate Communications Department and Assistant Professor of Undergraduate Communications, Janine Fondon, on the untold stories of black women throughout history in her session, “Untold Stories: Black Women On the Move.” Another session entitled, “The Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”
The symposium included a luncheon keynote presentation by Dr. Janine Spinola Taylor, Assistant Professor at Springfield College. Taylor discussed her childhood identity crisis and relationship with race, how she experienced personal growth during times of adversity, and how she eventually grew to love herself and her own identity. Taylor engaged attendees in discussion around nationality vs. ethnicity, which resulted in positive responses from the audience. Taylor’s presentation resonated with participants inspired conversation and led participants to share their own personal struggles.
For Black History Month Symposium highlights, take a look at the slideshow!