“Black history is the foundation of resilience, innovation, and progress. This month is not just about remembrance but about recognizing the strength and contributions of Black individuals who continue to shape our world today,“ said Dr. Valerie Mason Cunningham, a Mercy alumna and diversity advocate.
As February continues, Mercy University is unfolding Black History Month with a series of impactful events to celebrate Black excellence, culture, and history. From thought-provoking discussions to artistic showcases, the university provides students, faculty, and staff with opportunities to reflect, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations.
Mercy University aims to create a space for education, empowerment, and celebration by recognizing the significance of Black history in shaping society. These events highlight Black leaders’ achievements, while inspiring students to embrace diversity and cultural awareness.
One of the most anticipated events of the month was the Black Excellence Dinner on Feb. 13. This evening featured inspiring guest speakers, networking opportunities, and a celebration of Black achievements across various fields. Last year’s dinner featured a performance by hip-hop artist Shaun Boothe, and this year turned out to be just as powerful. Attendees were able to experience an evening filled with motivation, conversation, and recognition of Black contributions to society.
Among the notable speakers is Dr. Valerie Mason Cunningham, a Mercy alumna who has made significant efforts in corporate leadership and community service. She has been recognized as a trailblazer in Westchester County for her contributions to diversity and inclusion in business. Her insights into leadership and empowerment gave attendees a valuable perspective on navigating professional spaces as Black individuals.
For those passionate about self-expression and cultural identity, the Embracing Natural Hair event on Feb. 20 at the Westchester Campus will explore the history, significance, and empowerment tied to natural Black hair. This open discussion aims to celebrate beauty and self-acceptance within the Black community, with panelists including hair care professionals and cultural historians who will share their expertise on the deep-rooted importance of hair in Black identity.
Creativity takes center stage on Feb. 26 at the Manhattan Campus with Black History Month Paint Night. Students will have the chance to express themselves through art while embracing themes of Black culture and history.
The month’s festivities will conclude with the Black History Month Talent Show on Feb. 27 at the Westchester Campus, where students will showcase their artistic talents in music, poetry, and dance. This event provides a platform for students to highlight their creativity while paying tribute to Black culture through performance.
Beyond in-person events, Mercy University hosts a special webinar featuring Arshay Cooper, author of A Most Beautiful Thing. Cooper’s story of resilience, leadership, and unity within the sport of rowing will provide students with an inspiring perspective on overcoming adversity and achieving greatness. His book details how he and his fellow teammates from Chicago’s West Side became the first all-Black high school rowing team, defying expectations and creating a legacy of perseverance.
Additionally, Mercy is recognizing distinguished alumni who have significantly contributed to Black culture and history. Notable honorees include Chanel Murray, an accomplished author whose books have been added to the U.S. Library of Congress. Murray’s literary work focuses on themes of Black empowerment, history, and self discovery, making her a key figure in modern Black literature.
With such a dynamic lineup, Black History Month at Mercy University is more than just a series of events—it’s a call to engage, learn, and celebrate. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate and make the most of these opportunities to reflect on history and prepare for the future.
Black History Month traces its origins back to Carter G. Woodson, one of the first Black scholars to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1912. His groundbreaking work, The Mis-Education of the Negro, remains an influential text in Black studies and continues to inspire discussions on education, culture, and identity. Woodson’s efforts led to the establishment of Negro History Week in 1926, which later expanded into Black History Month, ensuring that the rich history and contributions of Black individuals are recognized and remembered.
As the month unfolds, Mercy University invites the community to honor the past, celebrate the present, and help shape a more inclusive future.
