Each February, Black History Month offers the Temple University community a chance to recognize the legacy and ongoing influence of Black and African American individuals both on campus and in society.
Monika Williams Shealey, dean of the College of Education and Human Development, described the month as “an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of the contributions of Black Americans in this country. It’s also an opportunity to think about the future and the role of Black Americans in crafting a vision that positively impacts the Black community and our society more broadly. As one of the few Black female leaders on this campus and in higher education in general, I feel a unique responsibility to be a role model for all students, particularly those who look like me.”
Molefi Kete Asante, professor of Africology and African American studies at the College of Liberal Arts, emphasized cultural context: “It’s important for one to always have a cultural context for what they do. In that sense I’m deeply grounded in an Afrocentric orientation to all phenomena. I always ask ‘What did my ancestors do in this case? What are our historical reference points?’”
Lauren Bullock, associate professor of instruction and director of the sports media program at Klein College of Media and Communication, highlighted her goals for inclusivity: “I’d like to play a role in creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for everyone who wants to work in the sports media industry. I want everyone to move beyond their race or gender and toward their skills and experience.”
Jonathan Howe, assistant professor and AIRE Lab co-director at the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management, also participated in reflecting on these themes.
Black History Month continues to serve as a period for reflection at Temple University while also prompting discussions about shaping a more inclusive future.
