Every year, February is largely devoted to the observance of black history. This year, Black History Month is sure to receive more attention than ever, due to the recent election of the nation’s first black president, Barack Obama, who has taken on the vow of rejuvenating the hopes and aspirations of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. into the America of the new millennium.

This month, FDU’s College at Florham has an extensive list of events on campus that will allow all students and faculty to partake in many exciting activities. The majority of the events are being hosted and sponsored by Becton College.

The individual who is largely responsible for organizing much of the events is Professor Monifa Brinson-Mulraine, who volunteered an astounding amount of time to make this year’s experience such a success.

Much support also came from numerous other faculty members, in addition to Dean of Students Brian Mauro and Dean of Becton College Geoffrey Weinman.
“This is the richest and broadest schedule the school has ever had,” Weinman said.

In regards to the recent election of President Obama, Weinman further commented that even though we now have an African American president, this does not mean that individuals should just stop learning about all of the history the African American population has bestowed upon America, but rather, all students and individuals should continue learning about this rich past.

The Orangerie room of the library has been featuring a large gallery of African American portraits, in addition to a sampling of books displaying some of the works of African American writers and photographers.

A panel discussion entitled, “No Momma’s Boy: A Tale of Resiliency,” featuring author Dominic Carter and other panelists and graduate students, took place on Feb. 3.
The Black History Month opening ceremony entitled, “Reflections of the Past — Focus on the Future,” took place on Feb. 5 and featured FDU’s own Melodies of Heaven Choir.

One of the most highly anticipated events at the College at Florham was the Hot Topics program, and this month’s theme was: “The Black Church in America: Fools or Freedom Fighters.”
The Hot Topics event featured a number of guest panelists and speakers.
Additionally, on Feb. 17, Twombly Lounge was expected to feature a Black History Month film screening and discussion of “My Brother’s Wedding,” followed by a panel discussion of African American health issues on Feb. 19.

BY MEGHAN DROGE
STAFF WRITER