Students engage in Black History Month events

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Photos by Matt Deane, student photographer

Among activities held on Pennsylvania College of Technology’s campus to honor February as Black History Month were “Hidden Heroes: An Open Mic Night” and “The Juke Joint.” The gatherings aimed to enlighten students on the rich facets of African American history and connect them in a community of inclusion and diversity.

“It’s a privilege to celebrate Black History Month at Penn College,” said Meghan Delsite Coleman, assistant director of student engagement. “Crafting programs for students that are both fun and educational is one of the highlights of my work, and I enjoy having the opportunity to honor the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. Working with students to expand their understanding of culture and history, and potentially open their eyes to pieces of the past they didn’t know about, is extremely fulfilling.”

Jacob A. Martinez (left), a robotics & automation student, joins featured artist ShySpeaks during the Hidden Heroes: An Open Mic Night event in CC Commons.

Martinez appears comfortable in the spotlight.

ShySpeaks, a Dallas-based hip hop and spoken word artist, performed inspiration-infused rhymes and provided education on “hidden heroes” of Black history.

Sigma Pi Fraternity brothers enjoy the entertainment.

Katherine A. Farley, an engagement assistant enrolled in automotive technology: Honda PACT emphasis, joins the fun ...

... and encourages Jenna J. Depaolo, automotive technology, to share her talents, too.

Across the way in the kitchen, Dining Services worker Reuben J. Sanchez revels in the music. He is enrolled in residential construction technology & management.

Also shedding inhibitions and taking to the stage is engagement assistant Ralph R. Courtright III, a construction management student.

More good words shared by ShySpeaks' keyboardist.

A beautiful image of the open mic

Playing up to the camera at The Juke Joint in the Thompson Professional Development Center is Dimitri M. Maroulis (with a fake cigarette). A resident assistant, he is enrolled in electrical technology and building automation engineering technology.

Feast your eyes on this crawfish boil! Catered by UpTop Cuisine, the menu featured an array of soul food ...

... with a side explanation of the cuisine's origins.

Students line up for the delicious fare.

Civil engineering technology student Jimmy Zagurskie serves up some libations ...

... as Christie R. Baldwin throws down dice. She is enrolled in heating, ventilation & air conditioning technology.

Another informational display explains the history of the juke joint as "the first secular, cultural arena to emerge among African American Freedmen."