2018 marks the 50th anniversary of the enrollment of our first Black students at Converse College. We reflect on our heritage and the work still ahead of us with a year-long series, Celebrating Courage and Charting the Future: Commemorating 50 years of Black Women at Converse.
The series began on February 9, 2018 with a panel of distinguished alumnae sharing their experiences with students, and continued into the fall with feature stories highlighting individual alumnae. The 50th anniversary was commemorated during a special Opening Convocation service in the fall. Finally, in the spring of 2019, the series will culminate with an exhibition highlighting Converse’s history of African American students developed by students as part of a class research project .
During Opening Convocation, students from Dr. Angela Elder’s African American History class conducted interviews for an oral history of the integration of Converse College. The exhibition was held on campus from February 7 through February 21, 2019 in the lobbies of Phifer Hall. See the highlights from the exhibit:
Inspired by the lives and stories of the women honored by our Celebrating Courage series, Dance Converse performed an innovative dance collaboration illuminating key aspects of the journeys of these Converse alumnae. Drawing on photographs and interviews, using spoken word and an inspiring musical score featuring gospel, soul, jazz, and R&B music, CHARTING THE FUTURE explored themes of inclusion, isolation, and perseverance, revealing a hopeful vision of our future for all Converse women.
This historic milestone on September 21 welcomed all alumnae for a day-long celebration of our Black Alumnae, in conjunction with Converse’s formal opening of the academic year. Participants joined us for Opening Convocation, lunch in Gee, and our special topic breakout sessions which included ‘Converse Uncensored: A discussion on diversity and inclusion at Converse,’ ‘A discussion on the Childish Gambino video, This is America,’ and ‘Philosophy of Culture: A discussion on culture and identity.’ Prior to Opening Convocation, Dr. Elder’s students led oral interviews with Black alumnae as part of a research project on Converse’s history of African American students. Their work will culminate in an exhibition in Spring 2019. Our illustrious Black Alumnae processed with faculty and seniors into Twichell Auditorium for the Opening Convocation service, where members of the Gospel Choir performed.
Watch the video highlights from the day:
In February 2018, Converse hosted the first event in its Celebrating Courage series: A Panel Discussion with Black Alumnae. Alumnae, current students, faculty and staff were invited to attend this powerful experience, as alumnae shared perspectives on their Converse experiences, creating a culture that embraces diversity, overcoming hurdles in their professional lives, the impact of mentors, building the network between alumnae and students, and more.
Featured panelists included Phyllis P. Harris ’82, Jayne Reuben ’85, Hon. Deadra Jefferson ’85, Candy Moore ’93, Dawn C. Davis-Deck ’99, Joy Stoney ’00, Stinson Woodward Ferguson ‘07, and Dr. Kay E. Woodward.
The 2018 academic year marked the 50th anniversary of our first Black students enrolling at Converse College. Throughout the year we are reflecting on the courage of these women, our heritage and growth, as well as the work still ahead of us.
The 2018 academic year marks the 50th anniversary of our first Black students enrolling at Converse College. Throughout the year we are reflecting on the courage of these women, our …
Meet Converse’s First Black Graduates: Freida Rodgers Byrd and Margaret Jones Swindler
The 2018 academic year marks the 50th anniversary of our first Black students enrolling at Converse College. Throughout the year we are reflecting on the courage of these women, our …
The 2018 academic year marks the 50th anniversary of our first Black students enrolling at Converse College. Throughout the year we are reflecting on the courage of these women, our …
The 2018 academic year marks the 50th anniversary of our first Black students enrolling at Converse College. Throughout the year we are reflecting on the courage of these women, our …