A trio of engaging, culturally rich events spanning the arts, social sciences, and STEM fields anchored observance of Black History Month at West Valley College throughout February.
Activities kicked off February 2 with “Centennial Rhythms: A Walk Through 100 Years of Black History,” an immersive celebration of Black History Month, which got its start nationally as a weeklong event in 1926.
Vice President of Strategy & Equity Andrea Vizenor addressed attendees, inviting them to explore a walkable history storyboard highlighting Black brilliance, resilience, and culture. Additionally, participants enjoyed traditions from live African drumming and dance to soul food dishes.
Harvard-educated biomedical scientist and former White House policy advisor Knatokie Ford headlined a February 18 presentation, “How Black Is Your Beautiful?™: A Black History Month Experience with Dr. Knatokie Ford.”
Drawing on the history of Black futures-thinking, Ford discussed how imagining a world beyond current limitations has long served as a powerful tool for survival, resistance, and innovation, including in her personal journey turning setbacks into opportunities.
Rounding out the month’s offerings, the founder and CEO of a creative marketing agency specializing in culture and technology took the stage February 23 for “Pressed for Greatness: Creativity, Culture, and Conversation with Devin Lars.”
“These kinds of events help to bring real-life examples for my students in ways that I would not so easily be able to replicate in the classroom.” - Usiel Meraz Cerna Professor of History