Augusta University is marking Black History Month this February with a series of on-campus events focused on African American history, culture, and achievements. The university’s programming aims to highlight both historical and contemporary aspects of Black life through activities open to students, faculty, and staff.
Black History Month began as a week-long celebration in 1926 and was officially recognized as a month by President Gerald Ford in 1976. Augusta University’s observance includes educational events that cover topics such as regional diversity, African traditions, literature, fashion, and the contributions of historical figures.
Shareen Clement, EdD, director of Mentorship and Student Engagement at Augusta University, discussed the significance of these activities: “It’s also easy with any history or heritage month to get stuck in past events, but it’s also important to acknowledge current experiences,” Clement said. “In an educational environment, it gives an opportunity for those who are part of that culture to learn more about it in themselves, but also those who are not a part of the culture to learn more about it, to make them more culturally competent individuals.”
Among the scheduled events is Douglass Day on Feb. 13 at Reese Library on the Summerville Campus. This annual event commemorates Frederick Douglass’s birthday with transcribe-a-thons focusing on primary sources from Black history.
The Annual African American Read In will take place on Feb. 16 at the JSAC Coffeehouse. Organized by the Department of English and World Languages, this event invites participants to share readings from their favorite Black authors.
Gullah Gumbo is scheduled for Feb. 17 at the JSAC Coffeehouse. This presentation explores Gullah history and traditions from coastal regions including the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida.
On Feb. 25 at Reese Library, arts educator A.C. Daniel will lead an art workshop centered around Gullah Geechee craft traditions. Registration is required due to limited space.
The month’s activities conclude with the Black History Month Fashion Show on Feb. 27 at Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre.
Erin Prentiss, librarian associate professor for University Libraries and chair of the Libraries’ Black History Month Committee stated: “We want students to get involved in topics unrelated to their major, stoking that curiosity and lifelong learning that’s going to continue after they receive their diploma,” Prentiss said. “For faculty and staff, most of us are already on the lifelong learning train, so these events are an opportunity for them to learn about something they might not be familiar with or that they can share their perspective on.”
University Libraries provide access to special collections related to Black history along with personalized research assistance for those interested in further study.
More information about these events can be found through Augusta University’s Events Calendar.
