By Elizabeth Clarke, LCU News
PINEVILLE, La. (LCU News) – Louisiana Christian University will celebrate Black History Month with a celebration of worldwide cultures, Gospel concert, and rhythm and blues nights, and a basketball tournament.
“Diversity is something we embrace at Louisiana Christian University, said LCU President Rick Brewer. “We have a diverse student body and a diverse faculty and staff. We look forward to taking time this month to focus on the important contributions of African Americans to our state, nation and world.”
Culture from ‘Around the World’ will kick off Black History Month, Feb. 22, 7 p.m. in the Martin Performing Arts Center.
“We invite all international students to come in their native dress,” said Joshua Joy Dara, associate vice president for engagement and enrichment. “This is an opportunity to showcase and learn about the food and culture of other countries, and we will showcase the talents and gifts of these students.”
LCU’s Gospel Choir will be joined by the choirs of Nazarene Baptist Church in Alexandria and Zion Hill Church in Pineville. This event will include a video presentation of black legends, Dara said.
Other Black History Month events include:
- The fourth annual Gospel concert, Feb. 23, 7 p.m. in Guinn Auditorium. LCU’s Gospel choir will be joined by the choirs of Nazarene Baptist Church in Alexandria and Zion Hill Church in Pineville.
- A rhythm and blues night, Feb. 24, 7-10 p.m. in the Hixson Student Center game room;
- A basketball tournament, Feb. 25, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in H.O. West gymnasium. Hosting the event will be Dwayne Jackson, a professional basketball player and former college player who founded Hoops on Mission, a non-profit cultural organization focused on afterschool mentoring programs and basketball from a Christian perspective. He uses his God-given skills and abilities to teach life lessons to at-risk youth in hopes they will find hope that only a relationship with Christ can bring; and
The LCU Talent Search, Feb. 28, 7-9 p.m. in Guinn Auditorium. All faculty, staff and students are encouraged to enter for a chance to win trophies and cash prizes, based on performances originally written by black artists. Auditions will be held in the student center Feb. 2, 9 and 16 at 11 a.m., and Feb. 7 and 14 at 3 p.m.
