Ohio Dominican University Invites Community to Celebrate Black History Month

February 5, 2008

COLUMBUS, OH ­– Ohio Dominican University (ODU) is proud to invite residents and visitors of the greater Columbus community to attend several free on campus events to celebrate February’s Black History Month.

The festivities kick-off 7p.m., Monday, February 4 at ODU’s Colonial Room in Sansbury Hall with a special program presentation by Mr. Jefferson Thomas, a member of “The Little Rock Nine,” who will share his personal experiences as a student trying to break the color barrier of Arkansas’ segregated schools. The “Little Rock Nine” is how history refers to the group of nine students from Little Rock Central High School in 1957 that faced great obstacles.

“We have numerous educational and entertaining activities planned not only for our students, faculty and staff but for our community,” said Bishop James A. Griffin, ODU Interim President. “I commend the University staff and students who have worked diligently to bring these activities and speakers to our campus.”

CANCELLED (not to be rescheduled) : Step AFRiKA will perform a high energy brand of precision stepping, tap, clogging, hip hop and South African dance at ODU’s Matesich Theatre in Erskine Hall. Doors open at 7:00 p.m.

Finally on Monday, February 25 a one woman play will be performed on the legacy of Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer who was a guiding light in the African American Civil Rights Movement and voter registration. The event will take place at ODU’s Matesich Theatre in Erskine Hall at 7 p.m.

For more information on ODU’s Black History Month please call (614) 251-4694 or visit our website for a campus map.