Virtual Events Celebrating the contributions of African Americans


Rockland County, NY (February 3, 2022) – Rockland Community College is celebrating Black History Month with enriching and engaging events throughout the month of February as well as throughout the year. Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of Black Americans and to recognize their role in the history of the United States. All events are virtual and free. For more information visit this link https://sunyrockland.edu/media/black-history-month/
Thursday, February 3rd 1:00 pm EST
Black History Webinar – The Great Equalizer: Blacks in Higher Ed
African Americans have always recognized the value of education and its power for transforming lives and communities. During the earliest years of slavery, African Americans were prohibited from learning to read or write. Following the Civil War the demand for education spread throughout Black communities and resulted in the formation of institutions of higher learning specifically designed for the Black population. Blacks are currently closing the gap in terms of college completion but there is still much work to be done. This session will explore the historical impact of Blacks in Higher Education.
For more information and to register, go to https://www.blacksinhighered.org/page/TheGreatEqualizer2022
Check the Vibe Tuesday – African-centric Attire
Members of the RCC community are encouraged to wear their favorite African-centric attire and post photos of themselves on social using the hashtag #weareblackhistoryrcc.
Thursday, February 10th 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm EST
Fireside Chat with Dr. Shamika Mitchell – Blacks in Comic Book History
Join us for an interview and talk back with Dr. Shamika Mitchell, RCC Professor of English, as she discusses the history of Blacks in comic books and graphic novels.
For more information and to register for zoom https://sunyrockland.edu/event/fireside-chat-with-dr-shamika-mitchell/
Tuesday, February 15th All Day
Check the Vibe Tuesday – Rep Your HBCU
Calling all alumni and supporters of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs)! We invite you to wear gear representing your favorite HBCU, take photos and post on your social media using the hashtag, #weareblackhistoryrcc We also invite members of the RCC community to share their thoughts on their favorite HBCU by clicking on our Padlet
Thursday, February 17th 2:00 PM EST
Racial Healing for Students of Color with Dr. David P. Rivera
The college years are exciting times—offering academic opportunities, rewarding relationships, and the pursuit of lifelong achievements. Navigating the college experience is often accompanied by race-related stress, which can impact a student’s ability to succeed. In particular, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) students can face experiences such as imposter phenomenon, microaggression, an invalidating campus climate, and mental health stigma. Being aware and becoming equipped to handle these concerns can help you not only survive but thrive. This workshop will provide you with information on the types of issues you might face, how to cope to maintain your physical and emotional wellbeing, answer questions about monitoring your health, and provide best practices for seeking assistance and available resources. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and share ideas throughout the session.
For more information and to register for zoom https://sunyrockland.edu/event/racial-healing-for-students-of-color-with-dr-david-p-rivera/
Tuesday, February 22nd 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm EST
The ABCs of Greek Life: Discussing the Impact of Black Greek Lettered Organization and Multicultural Fraternities & Sororities
Created in the early 1900s, Black Greek Lettered Organizations and multicultural fraternities and sororities have served as the foundation of social engagement and public service in the Black community. Join us for a panel discussion in which members of these organizations discuss their reasons for becoming Greek, their perspectives on the impact of these organizations, and the benefits of joining a fraternity or sorority.
For more information and to register for zoom https://sunyrockland.edu/event/the-abcs-of-greek-life/
Thursday, February 24th 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm EST
Black Music Appreciation: Lunch Time Vibes
Join us for lunch and tunes as we rock out to the musical stylings of DJ Natalie Scott. We will have a selection of curated playlists highlighting Black musical artists through the decades.
For more information and to register for zoom https://sunyrockland.edu/event/black-music-appreciation/
About Rockland Community College, State University of New York
Rockland Community College, State University of New York, offers a safe, supportive learning environment for thousands of students from diverse backgrounds who appreciate small class sizes and personal attention from a distinguished, award-winning faculty that includes Fulbright scholars and SUNY Distinguished Professors. Thanks to the school’s affordable tuition, students who begin their career journey at RCC and then transfer to a four-year college can save up to $100,000 on their education. RCC is also proud to provide career training and professional development to adult learners looking to change careers or upgrade their skills through its new Career Skills Academy. More information can be found at www.sunyrockland.edu.
