OTR Students Celebrate African American History

February was African-American History Month, and Chatfield College in Over-the-Rhine celebrated with style during the week of February 20-25.

The theme for the week was African-Americans in Art and Literature.  Students and staff coordinated several great events throughout the week.

The celebration began on Monday with a lecture and recital by Chatfield guitar instructor, Jamie
Murrell.  Jamie discussed five famous African-American Jazz musicians and their influence on the Jazz culture and demonstrated their music.

On Tuesday, Over-the-Rhine students had the chance to test their trivia knowledge of African American inventions with “The Invention Is Right” trivia game using famous African American inventors, and had a lot of fun while learning.

On Wednesday, several staff members and OTR students presented selected readings written by African American poets and authors, including Maya Angelou, Robert Coles, Langston Hughes, Nelson Mandela, Paul Lawrence Dunbar, James Weldon Johnson, and Nikki Giovanni.  Presenters included John Tafaro, John Penrose, Brandee Wright, Dr. John Henderson, Ryan Hall, Nakela Williams, Jim Ludwig, Sr. Patricia Homan, Drew Donkin, Vondrea Franklin and Brad Jones.

Thursday showcased some of the amazing talent of our students and staff members, with the African American Cultural Talent Show, where they welcomed special guest Sharif D. King from 101.1, the Wiz.  Talent Show participants included Felecia James, Sherrod Jackson, Jasmine Parham, and Mikaela Williams.

On Friday, OTR students gave back to the community with a visit to Rising Stars Academy where they read to the school’s preschool class.  Participants included Courtney Evans, Stacy Simpson, Brandee Walker, Anita Campbell and OTR Admission Counselor Jasmine Parham.

On Saturday, Chatfield College in Over-the Rhine welcomed the African American Showcase of Memories, featuring Dr. Paula Reed and the Cultural Vines of Talent who presented poetry, dance, music, fashion designs, and art expressions of the African American culture.

Many thanks to all the sponsors who supplied the refreshments throughout the week!