Skagit Valley College (SVC) honored Black History Month by hosting a series of engaging and educational events for students, staff, and faculty. These events provided meaningful opportunities for learning, reflection, and discussion about the contributions and experiences of Black individuals throughout history and in higher education.
On Feb. 13, SVC partnered with Living Voices to bring interactive historical performances to campus. More than 200 attendees – including students from LaVenture Middle School and SVC and SVC faculty and staff – gathered to witness “The Right to Dream” and “Fly for Freedom.” These powerful presentations combined dynamic solo performances with archival film, offering a deeply personal and moving experience that highlighted significant moments in Black history.
“After every single event over the last two months, every teacher advisor I've spoken to has mentioned how much they liked it and how wonderful it was,” said BSU events coordinator and SVC student Naomi Petalwood. “It truly made a significant impact on campus”
Following this, SVC hosted a Black History Month panel featuring Dr. Claver Hategekimana, SVC director of institutional research; Dupe Kai, Computer Science instructor; and Toni Nicolas, web developer and Black Student Union (BSU) club advisor. The panelists shared their experiences navigating higher education as Black professionals, offering insight and inspiration to attendees. The discussion provided a platform for meaningful dialogue on representation, challenges, and achievements within academia.
“These events not only honored Black history but also fostered an environment of learning and community engagement within our campus,” said Nicolas. “It’s essential to create spaces where we can celebrate Black voices and experiences while also addressing the realities of systemic challenges.”
About Living Voices
Using historical perspectives based on real people and events, Living Voices combines live performance with audio/video, visual aids, and discussion. Archival film and photos, blended with sound and synchronized with a live actor, provide a dynamic, interactive experience of how the world looked, sounded, and felt during a significant time in history. Their innovative, accessible programs promote diversity, encourage empathy and learning, build community, and inspire social change. Audiences view history through a personal, inclusive lens, and see themselves as a part of it – what is past, and what is yet to be written.
“I am very proud to have contributed to bringing and sharing these significant events on our campus,” said Monique McVeigh, SVC program support supervisor and BSU club advisor. “It was a valuable experience to have LaVenture Middle School students attend alongside SVC students, faculty, and staff, collectively recognizing that Black history is American history. Now, more than ever, it is crucial for all of us to continue learning about one another. The knowledge is present all around us and must not be forgotten or erased.’’
SVC remains committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within its campus community. The success of this year’s Black History Month events underscores the importance of continued dialogue and educational programming that highlights and honors Black contributions to society.
For more information about diversity and inclusion efforts at Skagit Valley College, visit skagit.edu/office-equity-inclusion/.
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