UCO INVITES THE COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH SERIES OF EVENTS

The University of Central Oklahoma will celebrate Black History Month throughout February with special events for the students and local community to honor the accomplishments and traditions of African Americans.

“It is important that we do not look at black history as a time that just affects African Americans, but that we recognize how the diversity of our country has contributed to the success and progression of America,” said MeShawn Conley, director of Central’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI).

“From the arts to the sciences, these young men and women have helped the United States grow into a more advanced nation by their positive impact on our society.”               

With the theme “Black History is…,” the month-long event series will kick off with an interactive discussion featuring guest speaker, Kevin Teal, M.D., spine and neurological surgeon at Intergris Health, at 1 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4 in Will Rogers Room, Nigh University Center (NUC).  Teal will speak about the contributions African Americans have made to American society.

At 2 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 13 in the Heritage Room, NUC, the African American Faculty Staff Association and the Black Student Association will host the annual Black History Month Keynote Address, featuring Bill Pink, Ph.D., vice president of academic affairs at Oklahoma State University’s Oklahoma City campus.

Pink’s speech will encourage students to rise above stereotypes. He will also encourage and explain how faculty and staff can make a conscious decision to serve and mentor African American students to help them reach their full potential.

Other events held throughout the month include a slam poetry reading, the Ebony Gospel Choir Reunion Concert, an interactive discussion about the state of African American women, and Miss Black UCO. 

The public is encouraged and welcome to attend all events. 

For more information about Black History Month and a complete schedule of activities, visit www.uco.edu/student-life or contact the ODI at 405-974-3588.