Students at Penn State Worthington Scranton will have plenty of opportunities in the coming weeks to learn more about black history and culture through a series of events organized to celebrate Black History Month.
From informational posters celebrating African American individuals who played significant roles in history to movies telling the true stories of individuals who fought against racism and prejudice, students will learn more about the African American culture.
Penn State Worthington Scranton kicked off its celebration of Black History Month on Wednesday evening (Feb. 4), with the showing of the movie, "The Great Debaters" starring Denzel Washington, which is based on the true story of a temperamental debate coach who molded the students of a small East Texas college into a formidable team that gave even Harvard's elite debate squad a run for its money.
Ffolk singer Lea returns to the campus for a noon performance on Tuesday, Feb. 10, in The View Café. Lea is a nationally known folk singer who has been compared to Tracey Chapman, India Arie, Ani DiFranco and Joni Mitchell. The Washington Area Music Association has nominated her five times for excellence in contemporary folk music.
Another movie, “Glory Road,” will be shown from noon to 2 p.m. On Thursday, Feb. 12 in The View Cafe. “Glory Road” is another true-life story of the Texas Western University basketball team who broke down racial barriers while racking up victories for his team.
“The Express” documents the rise of Ernie Davis, who overcame impossible odds to become the first African-American to win college football's greatest honor -- the Heisman Trophy. It will be shown at noon Thursday, Feb. 19 in The View.
Well-known African American comedian, Preacher Moss, will appear on campus with his comedy and lecture tour on the “End of Racism” being presented at noon on Monday, Feb. 23, in the View.
The month’s activities will end with a Dinner and A Movie event, from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26 in The View Café. “Guess Who” features Bernie Mac and Ashton Kucher.