Black History Month Archives - �۶�ֱ�� University

Black Student Association Celebrates Black History and Builds Community at �۶�ֱ��

Office of University Communications — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:01:36 +0000

Students Reflect on Resilience, Representation, and the Ongoing Impact of Black Culture

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The �۶�ֱ�� Black Student Association (BSA) is sponsoring a spirit week and several events to highlight African American culture and heritage. Shiasia Jefferies, BSA president, explains why February is the perfect month to honor Black History. Along with BSA, the Office of Campus Unity and Connection is sponsoring two programs. Learn more here.

“February, often referred to as the ‘month of love,’ offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with our roots and honor the traditions we continue to cherish, despite the hardships our ancestors endured,” Jefferies noted. “This month gives us the space to educate, celebrate, and inspire others to understand the depth of Black history. I believe Black History Month goes far beyond simply acknowledging that we are no longer in bondage; it is about recognizing resilience, contributions, and the ongoing impact of Black culture.”

The BSA Vice President Naliah Codjovi shared that Black History Month reminds her how much strength can be found in unity and perseverance. “Black History Month allows me to dedicate time to learn about and be inspired by figures who created great changes in the world, even when the world was against them,” she related.

Codjovi, of Charlotte, N.C., is an Ignite Scholar at �۶�ֱ��, an award that includes full tuition to the University. A biology major with a biomedical concentration and a minor in health administration, her goal is to become a Physician Assistant and enter the field of hematology. She appreciates all those who have led the way into the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

“I’ve been very inspired by people of color in science,” she shared. “I’ve been seeing a lot of news about black inventors. I love hearing and seeing people of color in STEM. Growing up interested in STEM, I’ve definitely found myself being the only black girl in the room. I didn’t see people who look like me in these roles, but lately I have had black doctors and black professors and they remind me that in a world that tries to doubt us and hold us back, we can still come out on top and pave the way for those behind us.”

Jefferies is a senior sociology major from Hickory, N.C. She is also inspired by the number of African American inventions that are still used today and points out other contributions to society. “Another powerful expression of Black culture can be seen in the way we wear our hair and dress, which has influenced and inspired people across many different racial and cultural backgrounds,” she acknowledged. “Music is also especially meaningful to me, as the soul, emotion, and deeper messages behind many Black songs are incredibly moving and reflective of our shared experiences.”

Jefferies and Codjovi said BSA planned its celebration of Black History Month to educate and foster connection. “Even within our own community, some people have limited understanding of what Black history is meant to represent,” Jefferies stated. “Ultimately, we aim to bring everyone together, as our events are not just for Black students on campus but for the entire community.”

Jefferies concluded, “Black History Month and the Black Student Association represent more than a celebration of the past; they are spaces for growth, education, and community building. They provide opportunities for meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and continued learning that extend beyond a single month. Through BSA, students are encouraged to engage with Black history and culture in ways that promote understanding, empowerment, and unity across the campus community.”

Join the celebration by participating in the days or events listed below.

Black History Month Spirit Week

Share your photos on Instagram and tag .

Feb. 10 – Sound of Movement, dress like your favorite artist, music year, or music genre.
Feb. 11 – Power in Roots – express yourself through your hair.
Feb. 12 – Unity and Culture Day – Wear a T-shirt promoting a black music group or one displaying a powerful quote.
Feb. 13 – Walk into Your Purpose, wear were favorite shoes.

Events

Feb. 10 – 7 p.m., Open Mic Night celebration of Black History Month. Tucker first floor.
Feb. 11 – 7 to 9 p.m., Debate on relationships and dating, snacks served, Clubhouse.
Feb. 12 – 2 to 4 p.m., DIY Bar, decorate a trucker hat or tote bag (materials provided), Tucker Rm. 141.
Feb. 24 – 6 p.m. Black History Month Bingo Night with pizza, snacks, drinks, prizes, Clubhouse.

For more information, email ncodjovi@gardner-webb.edu.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at .

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Gardner‑Webb Celebrates Black History Month with Campus‑Wide Events

Office of University Communications — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 14:20:38 +0000

Programs, Library Display, and Black Student Association Events Spotlight Black Voices, Identity, and Resilience

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The observance of Black History Month at Gardner‑Webb University features a series of events and initiatives designed to connect the campus community to the past, celebrate the present, and strengthen relationships. The Office of Campus Unity and Connection, the Black Student Association (BSA), and Dover Library are collaborating to highlight the rich history, culture, and creative contributions of Black Americans.

Dover Library

�۶�ֱ�� Instruction Librarian Katie Hartley has curated a special display featuring new releases from African American authors. She designed the exhibit to showcase a range of voices, spotlighting both emerging writers and well‑known authors. The goal, she explained, is to give patrons an opportunity to explore diverse perspectives and perhaps discover a new favorite book.

BSA Spirit Week and Events

The Black Student Association is also leading the campus in celebration through Black History Month Spirit Week, held Feb. 9–13, and hosting other events throughout the month. Read more about their events here.

Office of Campus Unity and Connection

Jessika Raduly, director of Campus Unity and Connection, said understanding history is foundational to building a stronger community. “Celebrating Black History Month at �۶�ֱ�� University is more than learning about history; it is about applying that knowledge to build a more unified and empathetic student body in the present. When students engage with the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Black history makers, they create a shared language of resilience that resonates across all backgrounds.”

Campus Unity and Connection is offering two additional programs that invite students to explore identity and perseverance through storytelling. Graduate student Alexis Wideman, who helped plan the events, says each one provides space for connection and reflection. Refreshments will be available at both programs while supplies last.

The first event on Feb. 16, “The Story We Tell,” will invite participants to create their own quilt square—no sewing required. Guest speaker, Dr. Simone McIntyre, assistant professor in the Department of Counselor Education, will discuss “Stitches, Strength, and Stories: Honoring Black History Month.” Inspired by the historic significance of quilting in Black communities, this event encourages students to express aspects of their identity, culture, and heritage. The completed squares will later be displayed in Tucker Student Center.

“For enslaved Black Americans, quilts served not only as a pathway to freedom but also as a powerful way to tell and preserve history within their familial roots,” Wideman explained. “This event allows participants to create and share the story they want to tell about who they are, so that each time they pass by the display, they can see their personalized quilt square and be reminded of their identity and story.”

The celebration continues on Feb. 19 with a movie night featuring “Harriet,” the acclaimed 2019 film starring Cynthia Erivo. The biographical drama highlights Harriet Tubman’s courage, leadership, and enduring impact on the fight for justice. Wideman describes Tubman as a symbol of resilience and conviction. She described, “Harriet Tubman demonstrates how faith in God can make the impossible possible. This film also sheds light on the history of slavery and the daily hardships endured by enslaved Black Americans. Regardless of how painful or difficult this history may be, it should never be forgotten, as it shows how resilience in the face of hate and ignorance continues to flow through the veins of Black Americans.”

Together, these programs invite the Gardner‑Webb community to honor Black history in meaningful, multifaceted ways throughout the month of February.

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Freshman Computer Science Major Celebrates His Heritage Through Poems, Stories and Film

Office of University Communications — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 18:21:51 +0000

Issa Cogdell Appreciates How �۶�ֱ�� Faculty and Students Inspire Him to Achieve His Goals

By Isabella Brown, ’24, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“Always strive for the greater—for you, and everyone around you,” challenged Issa Cogdell, a freshman computer science major. He appreciates how film, poetry, and literature are used to celebrate his heritage.

Cogdell shares his story in recognition of Black History Month. During the month, �۶�ֱ�� will highlight several students who are making a difference on campus and in their communities. Through their creative passions and leadership skills, these students honor their heritage and encourage others to achieve their dreams.

As a computer science major, Cogdell plans to become a cybersecurity professional and eventually open his own cybersecurity firm. “My favorite parts of being a computer science major would be two things: Learning how things I use on an everyday basis work, and taking computer hardware with Professor Oscar Gonzalez because he is a wonderful professor,” he observed.

Cogdell also won the Ignite Excellence Scholarship, which is a full-tuition award for eight semesters. In his short time on campus, the professors and students at �۶�ֱ�� have made an important impact on Cogdell and continue to encourage him to achieve his goals. “Everyone on this campus tends to inspire me in some way or another, especially the African American community on this campus,” asserted Cogdell.

As part of the Black Student Association (BSA), Cogdell and other fellow students work together to provide opportunities for conversation, education and celebration regarding minority issues, race and culture. “Black history is American history,” Cogdell affirmed. “It spans past one month.”

He believes that when the ideas and words of intellectuals are kept alive, they continue to hold the power to fight oppression. He references the poems of Nikki Giovanni, American poet and contributor of the Black Arts Movement as examples. “My favorite poem from Nikki Giovanni would have to be ‘,’ due to the confidence she exudes while using things close to African Americans, such as Egypt as metaphors to display her ideas,” Cogdell shared.

Additionally, one of the many events that come to Cogdell’s mind during Black History Month is the awe-inspiring interview that aired in 1971 between Giovanni and James Baldwin, an American writer and civil rights activist. During this conversation between poet and writer, the two discuss the depth of the human experience and the future of black culture.

Speaking about society, Baldwin asserted, “And you have—somehow—to begin to break out of all of that and try to become yourself. It’s hard for anybody, but it’s very hard if you’re born black in a white society. Hard, because you’ve got to divorce yourself from the standards of that society.” This interview remains a timeless representation of the power of conversations and also of film, which spreads these discussions around the world.

Cogdell appreciates films that highlight and celebrate the experiences of his heritage, along with directors like Spike Lee and John Singleton, who have explored race relations, the black community and black identity. “I love film because it is a generational way to tell a story, a way for us to put faces to words and be able to visualize some of our favorite moments and be able to invite those from other cultures into our world,” he observed.

Just as people on the GWU campus have inspired him, Cogdell wants to encourage fellow students to “continue being great.” Like Giovanni, Baldwin, Lee, Singleton, and many others, Cogdell believes that the consistent resilience displayed by black men and women can serve as a catalyst for the future when oppression has ended.

Writer Isabella Brown is a senior English Major.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

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Wrestler Jha’Quan Anderson Wants to Inspire Others On and Off the Mat

Office of University Communications — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 13:32:47 +0000

Graduate Student Plans a Career in Strength Coaching

By Isabella Brown, ’24, Intern for University Communications

Jan’Quan Anderson

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“I want to be an example,” asserted Jha’Quan Anderson, a graduate student and wrestler at �۶�ֱ�� University. During the 2022-2023 wrestling season, Anderson finished with more than 20 wins and made his second appearance in the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships. Recently, he was named Southern Conference Wrestler of the Month and celebrated his 20th win for this season.

Anderson, of Conyers, Ga., aspires to share with others the life-changing impact wrestling has had on him, and he wants to equip athletes to succeed both on and off the mat. He relates his story in celebration of Black History Month. During the month, �۶�ֱ�� will highlight several students who are making a difference on campus and in their communities. Through their creative passions and leadership skills, these students honor their heritage and encourage others to achieve their dreams.

Anderson is working on a Master of Science in strength and conditioning. Upon graduation, he hopes to pursue a career in strength coaching. “The master’s program is really rigorous and prepares us for anything we have coming in our careers,” he affirmed. “I am well prepared because of my professors.”

From the first time he stepped onto a wrestling mat, he knew he would be staying in the sport for the long run. “I started wrestling in middle school, when I was 13.” Anderson recounted, “Football season had just ended, and the wrestling coach came up to me and said, ‘Hey, you should try wrestling!’ I told him, ‘I don’t know. Wrestling is not for me’. And he responded, ‘Come to one practice. If you don’t like it you can leave.’ So, I thought, alright I’ll do that.”

To Anderson, wrestling is more than just a sport, and the community aspect is something he appreciates to this day. “One of the reasons I stuck with wrestling is because I felt like it was more of a family,” he expressed. “It felt like a brotherhood.”

During Black History Month, Anderson remembers the athletes who have reshaped the world of sports by bringing people together regardless of their differences. These men and women carved a path for the future generations of athletes who would make their mark on the world. “Lebron James, Serena Williams, Tiger Woods, Lamar Jackson, they are all people who broke down barriers and walls in sports and in spaces that probably weren’t meant for us when they first started,” he explained. “Being able to break down those barriers is really important. They should really be celebrated.”

Anderson is hopeful that more conversations will be had about these topics in the future. He believes that it’s critical to learn about each other and gain perspective. “These conversations should be happening outside the month, as well,” he asserted. “Our history is an everyday event.”

When thinking about who inspired him most during his athletic journey, Anderson shares that it was American professional wrestler, Jordan Burroughs. “I’ve been watching him since I started wrestling. He’s one of the greatest wrestlers to have ever lived.” Anderson continued, “I like to think I have a similar wrestling style. I like to watch him wrestle and emulate that.”

A wrestler with dreams that go beyond the mat, Anderson believes that perseverance is key. “Keep going,” he encouraged, “and you can break down these barriers and do things people think you might not necessarily be able to do. You can do hard things. You can get it done.”

Writer Isabella Brown is a senior English Major.

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Considering Who and What is Celebrated During Black History Month

Office of University Communications — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:53:13 +0000

Senior Brandon Richmond Shares His Search to Discover What the Month Means to Him

By Brandon Richmond, 2023 Intern for University Communications

“What does Black History Month mean to me?” It’s a question that I asked myself a lot a few years ago. I have celebrated it for as long as I can remember. I remember my mother gathering my siblings and me together to watch various Black historical movies and documentaries, from “Roots” to the Maya Angelou documentary. My family would often spend February talking about Black history and going to various museums. And, all of this taught me what Black History Month means to Black people, but not always what it meant for me as an individual.

It was not until high school that I found myself in various conversations about the relevance of Black History Month. I defended the month tooth and nail, always talking about the foundations of the month. I would always bring up why Carter G. Woodson, the father of Black history, founded Black History Week to celebrate the freeing of the slaves and also celebrate the accomplishments African Americans made after that. I would talk about how Historical Black Colleges and Universities turned that week into a month. However, I started to feel that this answer was unsatisfactory, even though those I was arguing against found themselves satisfied.

I felt like there was something that even I was missing when thinking about Black History Month. When I was a freshman at �۶�ֱ�� University, I found myself celebrating Black History Month at college. I posted a series of Instagram stories that were facts about historical Black figures and seldom talked about Black facts. And while I did this and researched a lot of Black stories and facts to discuss, I still felt like I was missing something. People would direct message me telling me how much they loved the series. Yet, I felt like something was missing.

At this same time, I was in the “African American Literature” class with Dr. Kemeshia Randle Swanson and “Creative Non-Fiction” class with Professor Matthew Duffus. Professor Duffus had us read James Baldwin’s “Notes of a Native Son,” and for Dr. Swanson, we read African American poetry. James Baldwin in this work talked so much about life and living. He talked about his lived experience, his struggles, his frustrations, and his thoughts. And the poetry I read for Dr. Swanson was not all about suffering, oppression, and struggling—a lot of it was happy and upbeat. The poets were lamenting their situation but also expressing joy for the few things they did have.

It was then that I realized what Black History Month meant to me.

Black History Month was not just about the history of those who came before me but it was about me and my lived experiences. It was meant to be a celebration of Black culture and history not just a holiday about facts. I had been viewing it as a time of looking back on the people before me and not an active celebration of my lived experience as a Black person and celebrating the existence of my family, friends, and community. That is why Black History Month is important, because it is Black people still celebrating the continuation of Us, our stories, and our history.

Black History Month is not just about the past—it is about the past, the present, and the future. It represents the fact that Black history will always exist and cannot be destroyed. It is meant to represent the strength of our stories and experiences. Now, when Black History Month comes around, I still reflect on books like Carter G. Woodson’s, “The Miseducation of the Negro,” where he describes the importance of Black History. Yet, I also reflect on works like N.K. Jemisin’s “How Long ‘til Black Future Month,” a collection of Afrofuturist stories that center on the idea that Black History is not just about the past but also about the future.

Black People existing and celebrating our existence; that is what Black History Month is to me.

Brandon Richmond, of Salisbury, N.C., is double majoring in English and theology/philosophy and plans to graduate in May. On the GWU campus, he is active in several clubs and organizations and serves as president of the Black Student Association and senior class vice president

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�۶�ֱ�� Homecoming Queen Encourages Those Around Her to Dream Big

Office of University Communications — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 18:14:58 +0000

Gabby Bailey, ’24, Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.’s Question: ‘What are You Doing for Others?’

By Isabella Brown, ’24, Intern for University Communications

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—“As a black female, I take pride in representing—and even empowering—other females of color. Obstacles will always come, that never means you have to stop pursuing your dreams,” asserted Gabby Bailey, �۶�ֱ��’s 2023 Homecoming Queen.

Bailey shares her story in celebration of Black History Month. During the month, �۶�ֱ�� will highlight several students who are making a difference on campus and in their communities. Through their creative passions and leadership skills, these students honor their heritage and encourage others to achieve their dreams.

Gabby Bailey, right, enjoys working as a teacher assistant in the biology labs.

As a senior biology major, Bailey plans to continue her education to pursue a career as a dental hygienist. Her main reason for choosing this field is her passion for helping others, which is also something Bailey has already made a priority while attending �۶�ֱ��. As a peer leader, teaching assistant and an employee for Campus Recreation, Bailey strives to motivate other students to enhance their academic experience while also enjoying college life.

Being a part of the campus recreation team includes the opportunity to design activities that enrich students’ physical, mental, spiritual, and social quality of life as part of the �۶�ֱ�� community. And as part of this team, Bailey works hard to make sure students are having fun!

While she believes all her roles on campus are important, Bailey finds the most joy in being able to inspire students on their academic journeys. “I am a teacher assistant for different biology labs in the natural sciences department,” she expressed. “This is one of my favorite activities on campus. It prepares me for my future career: being hands on and helping others as a dental hygienist.”

Her dreams of the future reflect those of civil rights leader and visionary, Martin Luther King Jr. who spoke these words: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?”

�۶�ֱ��’s homecoming queen endeavors to answer King’s challenge by encouraging students to dream big and always make serving others their greatest mission. “When I think of Black History Month, I think of Martin Luther King Jr. A fun fact that makes his inspiration so special to me is that on the day I was born it was Martin Luther King Jr. Day!” she explained, “Martin Luther King Jr. was also an inspiration to me because each time I see a group of different races gathered, I think back to what he did to make that possible for us today.”

Gabby Bailey is inspired by the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and is proud that on the day she was born, the country was celebrating MLK Day. (Photo by Taylor Payne / Intern for University Communications)

Bailey is also inspired by Simone Biles, the first female U.S. gymnast to win four gold medals and three consecutive world all-around titles. Biles’ legacy inspires Bailey and countless other women to conquer any challenge that comes their way. “She constantly shows her talent as a black woman, inspiring girls of color to participate in sports and other activities of their interest,” Bailey shared.

Women and men like Biles and King have built a foundation of hope for future generations, their message always rooted in love, an act which takes the greatest courage. Just like these empowering individuals that she looks up to, Bailey wholeheartedly encourages others to work hard to achieve their goals and take on new challenges. She noted, “Running for homecoming was important to me, because I truly wanted to make a change as well as step out of my comfort zone here at �۶�ֱ��.”

Writer Isabella Brown is a senior English major.

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�۶�ֱ�� University Gospel Choir Shares a Message of Hope, Love and Unity

Office of University Communications — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:30:00 +0000

Group Has Been a Part of Campus and Community for Nearly 30 years

By Isabella Brown, ’24, Intern for University Communications

The �۶�ֱ�� University Gospel Choir has been an integral part of the university community for nearly three decades. The group was originally named the E. Jerome Scott Gospel Choir. , a former GWU vice president and dean of Student Development, passed away suddenly in May 1995.

Scott was known on campus and in Cleveland County, N.C., for his love for music and his ability to bring people together. The members of the choir continue to reflect the values of Scott by connecting people of every race, denomination, and age through worship. The choir sings on campus, in the local community, and at various events, delivering a message of hope, love, and unity to everyone who hears.

Nadia Norman is the president of the Gospel Choir.

Nadia Norman, president of the Gospel Choir, shares that the choir is a ministry that points people to God. “If you’re looking for a place of authentic worship, this is a place of community, fellowship, and authenticity,” she offered. “We are here to worship in whatever way God is speaking. Music connects everyone. Everyone loves music.”

Norman also enjoys leading this community of singers. She wrote the club constitution, emphasizing its goal of creating unity. “I like that God has allowed me to be used as a vessel to connect with people of all different genders and races,” she shared. “It has allowed me to grow as a person and as a leader.”

Za’kia Hamilton, a sophomore, music education major, and a soprano, shares that the Gospel Choir holds a special place in her heart. After coming to �۶�ֱ��, Hamilton discovered the choir was a place to express her love for music and God. “I was a transfer student,” she said. “The community part was important.”

Breeland Madison, a freshman and business management major who sings bass, describes why this choir community is so special to him. “I feel like friendships are genuine here,” he expressed. “Regardless of who you are, people who are really faith-centered are always trying to be better. Everyone I became friends with is genuine. We are all each other’s safe space.”

The Gospel Choir practices in Dover Chapel on Sundays and Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. The Gospel Choir’s advisor is Dr. Joshua Cheney, assistant professor of music and director of Choral Activities at �۶�ֱ��. The choir’s next concert will be on Feb. 29. For more information, email Norman.

Writer Isabella Brown is a senior English Major.

Black History Spirit Week

This year’s national celebration of Black History Month focuses on the theme, African Americans and the Arts. During the month, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion is hosting Black History Spirit Week, which is a great opportunity to learn, share, and honor the extraordinary contributions of Black individuals throughout history. Acquiring this knowledge fosters unity, understanding, and a deep appreciation for the diverse narratives that have shaped the world.

Feb. 6 – 6 p.m., Education and Achievement Day. Wear gold to represent excellence, achievement, and success. Panel discussion featuring African-American alumni and professionals to highlight achievements and contributions to education and society. Tucker Student Center, Rm. 141.

Feb. 7 – 6 p.m., Cultural Appreciation Day. Wear green to symbolize the rich land of Africa and growth. Cultural fair showcasing various aspects of African-American culture, including art, music, dance, and literature. Tucker Student Center, Third Floor Lobby.

Feb. 8 – 6 p.m., Social Justice and Advocacy Day. Wear black to signify resilience, strength, and solidarity. Diversity Dialogue focused on social justice issues, activism, and advocacy. Tucker Student Center, Third Floor Lobby.

Feb. 9 – 6 p.m., Legacy and Future Day. Wear a combination of red, black, and green to represent the Pan-African flag and the unity of the African diaspora. Tucker Student Center.

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�۶�ֱ�� Hosts Events to Celebrate Black History Month

Office of University Communications — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 18:49:55 +0000

Spirit Week Recognizes Contributions of Black Individuals Throughout History

Lawrence Brinson, director of the GWU Office of Diversity
and Inclusion, has several programs planned to celebrate
Black History Month.

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—During Black History Month in February, the �۶�ֱ�� University Office of Diversity and Inclusion led by Director Lawrence Brinson is sponsoring events to recognize the extraordinary contributions of Black individuals throughout history. University Communications will also highlight several students who are making a difference on campus and in their communities. Through their creative passions and leadership skills, these students honor their heritage and encourage others to achieve their dreams. Their stories will be shared in the GWU Newscenter.

It’s also African-American Reading Month, a time to discover the diverse literature that reflects the experiences, resilience, and creativity of the African-American community. Readers can explore a wide range of perspectives from classic works by great authors like Toni Morrison, James Baldwin, and Maya Angelou, to contemporary voices that are shaping the literary landscape. Reading connects individuals with other cultures and fosters a deeper appreciation for the narratives that contribute to the vibrant mosaic of African-American culture.

Black History Spirit Week

Black History Spirit Week is a great opportunity to learn, share, and honor the extraordinary contributions of Black individuals throughout history. Acquiring this knowledge fosters unity, understanding, and a deep appreciation for the diverse narratives that have shaped the world.

Feb. 6 – 6 p.m., Education and Achievement Day. Wear gold to represent excellence, achievement, and success. Panel discussion featuring African-American alumni and professionals to highlight achievements and contributions to education and society. Tucker Student Center, Rm. 141.

Feb. 7 – 6 p.m., Cultural Appreciation Day. Wear green to symbolize the rich land of Africa and growth. Cultural fair showcasing various aspects of African-American culture, including art, music, dance, and literature. Tucker Student Center, Third Floor Lobby.

Feb. 8 – 6 p.m., Social Justice and Advocacy Day. Wear black to signify resilience, strength, and solidarity. Diversity Dialogue focused on social justice issues, activism, and advocacy. Tucker Student Center, Third Floor Lobby.

Feb. 9 – 6 p.m., Legacy and Future Day. Wear a combination of red, black, and green to represent the Pan-African flag and the unity of the African diaspora. Tucker Student Center.

Black History Month Dinner

The Black History Month Community Dinner and Dialogue will be held on Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. in Faith Hall. Registration will be required for this event due to limited space. The deadline for registration is Feb. 20. The event is free for faculty and staff and $10 for guests. Registration details to come.

Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 10 working days prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.

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Doug Armstrong, ’88, Excelled with Support of GWU’s Blind and Visually Impaired Program

Office of University Communications — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 12:30:00 +0000

Alumnus Became a Lawyer to Protect People and Defend Their Rights

Doug Armstrong met his wife, Jackie, while working in Winston-Salem, N.C. They have a daughter, Jennifer.

Doug Armstrong graduated cum laude in 1988 from �۶�ֱ�� University. A student in the blind and visually impaired program, he had earned two degrees in mathematics and computer science with a minor in political science. Armstrong had planned to pursue a job in software engineering and development, but a revelation from his family history inspired him to take a different path. He decided to become a lawyer and use his analytical and problem-solving skills to protect people and their rights.

His hometown of McGehee is located in Arkansas’ Delta Region, which is one of the poorest areas in the state. When he was a junior, Armstrong discovered that his stepdad’s grandfather, a black farmer, was swindled out of his land. That’s when he vowed to make a difference. “I had been subject to and witnessed so many injustices, and I thought I don’t know what kind of impact I can make as a computer programmer, but I can make a better impact as a lawyer,” he reflected.

He was drawn to �۶�ֱ��, because his high school wrestling coach and counselor had discovered that GWU offered a specialized program for the blind and visually impaired. Armstrong applied and received a presidential scholarship. With the program’s help and support, such as braille chapters of textbooks, student readers and recordings for the blind, he excelled in academics. “The biggest thing was the attitude of the professors,” Armstrong affirmed. “They weren’t going along because they had to, they genuinely wanted to help.”

One professor in particular, Paul Jolley, was explaining a calculus problem in class and could tell by the look on Armstrong’s face that he didn’t understand. In desperation, Jolley asked the person sitting behind Armstrong to trace the problem on Armstrong’s back. The tactic worked, and Armstrong used it in other classes.

The Shelby Star wrote a story about Doug Armstrong and published this photo of him running with Coach John Haskins.

Armstrong received awards in political science and computer science and was recognized with a special award for his scholarship and participation in college activities. Armstrong played the alto saxophone and served as president of the band. He lettered in cross country and track, winning the Most Valuable Cross Country Runner Award. He ran with a guide runner, who was Assistant Basketball Coach John Haskins.

Armstrong also served as a senator to the Student Government Association, as a Big Brother, and as president of his class. He was president of the Math Club and vice president of both the Social Science Club and the Association of Computing Machinery.

Because of the support he received from everyone at �۶�ֱ��, Armstrong has served on the advisory board for the University’s Noel Center for Disability Resources since 1989. “It’s a way of giving back when so much was given to me,” he affirmed, “And, it’s another way for me to remain connected to �۶�ֱ��.”

After graduating from Wake Forest University School of Law in 1992, he passed the N.C. Bar Exam and was offered a job with the Legal Aid Society of North Carolina Inc. in Winston-Salem, N.C. He specialized in housing, employment and consumer law. �۶�ֱ�� recognized him for his work as Young Alumnus of the Year in 1995.

Armstrong met his wife, Jackie, while working in Winston-Salem through a mutual friend who worked with her at Sarah Lee Knit Products. She received a promotion and the couple moved to Cincinnati for 14 years, and he continued to work in legal aid and private practice there. They moved back to the Concord area in 2012, when Jackie took a job with the American Red Cross. They have one daughter, Jennifer.

As a student of the law and history, Armstrong appreciates the celebration of Black History Month for several reasons. “It’s a time to recognize the key roles and contributions and sacrifices of African Americans and remember those who came before us,” he acknowledged. “We are reminded of what people went through so that we don’t take our civic duties lightly.”

His heroes encompass all of his interests. “I have so many—Thurgood Marshall is my most favorite. He was the first black supreme court justice and he argued Brown vs. Board of Education,” Armstrong related. “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is another. He handled everything with non-violence. And Jackie Robinson; I’m a big sports fan. With all of these people, the thing that sticks out is the dignity and professionalism with which they conducted themselves.”

His list also includes Shirley Chism, the first black woman elected to the House of Representatives. She advocated for inclusion of black soldiers in War World II. In 1992, Barbara Jordan, another black female congressman, became the first black woman to give a keynote address before the Democratic convention.

He added that the celebration should recognize the contributions of white people—the preachers and journalists—who pointed out the wrongs and called for change. “Black History celebrates diversity,” Armstrong asserted. “It unites us. When we are focusing on contributions of blacks in the past, we can come together. It takes us beyond the history books. There are people and events that I’ve learned about over the years because of Black History Month that you never get in school.”

Isaac Murphy is one example. He was the first jockey to win the Kentucky Derby three times. Bessie Coleman, the first African American pilot, was known for her flying tricks. However along with the good stories, Armstrong said he’s also learned some bad and ugly history, like the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 where 35 city blocks of “Black Wall Street” were destroyed by burning, vandalism and violence. Over 800 people were treated for injuries, and an estimated 300 were killed because the color of their skin. There’s also Emmett Till, who went into a store to buy some candy, where a white shopkeeper accused him of flirting with her. Her husband and his brother abducted 14-year-old Till, and they tortured and murdered him. This death received international attention and is widely credited with sparking the American Civil Rights Movement.

Armstrong concluded, “You have to have it all to have the complete picture. It helps us to understand the importance of our story. When you look at how blacks have changed the world before us, it lets us know that we can make an impact as well. It serves as inspiration.”

Black History Month Events

February 1-28
- National African American Read-In (Exhibit in Dover Library)
  - Make literacy a significant part of Black History Month—and throughout the year—by reading books, poems, and speeches by black authors.
- GWU Voices – Stories celebrating alumni and students who are impacting their communities.

Monday, Feb. 20
- 6 to 7 p.m. – Diversity Dialogues: My Hair, My Crown. A discussion aimed at celebrating Black hairstyles and diversity. Third Floor, Tucker Student Center.

Thursday, Feb. 23
- Open Mic Night – 8 p.m., Tucker Student Center.

Black History Month: A Family Affair
- TBD – Sign up with friends and compete for prizes in Black History team trivia. Enjoy good music and food while you test your knowledge of Black culture and history.

The post Doug Armstrong, ’88, Excelled with Support of GWU’s Blind and Visually Impaired Program appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Javonda Adams, ’22, Honors Her Black History and Culture Every Day

Office of University Communications — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 12:00:00 +0000

�۶�ֱ�� Alumna Pursuing Master’s in American Sign Language Pedagogy

“If you do not like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”
Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou is one of Javonda Adams’ heroes, and the above quote one of her favorites. Adams, an alumna of �۶�ֱ�� University, is inspired by the famous poet’s strong mindset and personality. “(She) helped me stand firm and keep moving,” Adams remarked. “Whenever life throws me curveballs, I still rise and keep moving.”

Adams, of Gastonia, N.C., is deaf and graduated in May 2022 with a bachelor’s in American Sign Language (ASL). She is happy to be back on campus this semester while completing her master’s degree in ASL pedagogy from the University of Northern Colorado (UNCO) in Greeley. As a requirement for the degree, Adams must observe an ASL teacher for 300 hours of her practicum to be met. “GWU feels like home,” she reflected. “I am proud to say that I am always a GWU alumna.”

Photo by Danielle Billups

During the celebration of Black History Month in February, Adams is grateful for her culture and the legacy passed down from Black leaders as well as her family and ancestors. She believes that honoring Black history should be a daily recognition of the many achievements of Black people and the ways they invested their time to make a difference for future generations.

“My grandmother was also my hero,” Adams related. “She died in March 2022. She and I were very close, and I have always admired her. She was the strongest woman, who loved God and showed how humble and loving she was, because she never judged anyone but loved everyone with compassion and kindness.”

On �۶�ֱ��’s campus, Adams was surrounded by support and friendship. Students welcomed her, and she gave them insight into what a deaf person experiences.

�۶�ֱ��’s ASL program prepares graduates for graduate school, interpreting, teaching, and other careers where communication with the deaf and hard of hearing are necessary. On the Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI) rating scale, graduates typically earn advanced or higher ratings. Alumni demonstrate proficiency in receptive and expressive ASL and are knowledgeable about Deaf culture and history.

Adams appreciates her professors, Bob Moore and Russ Gribble, who prepared her with the information and skills she needed to succeed in graduate school. “I want to give them credit for everything that I learned from them. Thank you!” Adams stated. “Right now, I am a graduate teaching assistant at UNCO, teaching students via Zoom, and I am doing a little bit of teaching and reviewing with them to help their ASL skills improve. I am still focusing on my classes to complete, so I can walk onto the stage to get my master’s degree in December. I want to be an ASL teacher to college students.”

Black History Month Events

February 1-28
- National African American Read-In (Exhibit in Dover Library)
  - Make literacy a significant part of Black History Month—and throughout the year—by reading books, poems, and speeches by black authors.

GWU Voices
- Look for stories in the GWU Newscenter celebrating alumni and students who are impacting their communities.

Monday, Feb. 6
- 3 to 4 p.m. – National Inventors’ Day: Highlighting Black Inventors, celebrate the lives and achievements of black inventors in history. Room 103, Dover Memorial Library.

Thursday, Feb. 9
- 2 to 4 p.m. – A Slice of History: Trivia and Free Pizza, Tucker Student Center Lobby.

Tuesday, Feb. 14 (Frederick Douglass’ Birthday)
- 3 to 4 p.m. – Frederick Douglass Day is celebrated on his birthday to remember this author, publisher, writer, orator, and most prominent African American abolitionist of his time. Room 103, Dover Memorial Library.

Monday, Feb. 20
- 6 to 7 p.m. – Diversity Dialogues: My Hair, My Crown. A discussion aimed at celebrating Black hairstyles and diversity. Third Floor, Tucker Student Center.

Thursday, Feb. 23
- Open Mic Night – 8 p.m., Tucker Student Center.

Black History Month: A Family Affair
- TBD – Sign up with friends and compete for prizes in Black History team trivia. Enjoy good music and food while you test your knowledge of Black culture and history.

The post Javonda Adams, ’22, Honors Her Black History and Culture Every Day appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.