Black History Month dinner set for Feb. 19

Valparaiso University is recognizing Black History Month with a number of events, including the Black History Month Dinner from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 19 in the Harre Union Ballroom.

The keynote speaker is Brytish Thomas. The theme of the night is “Celebration of Gospel.” Gospel choirs will perform, and there will be a tribute video saluting gospel greats. Admission is $5 for students, faculty and staff, and $10 for the general public, with tickets on sale at the Union Info Desk. Students can buy tickets through their meal plan.

A poetry slam featuring Brandon Thornton, aka Xplicit, is from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9, in the Union Cafe (CORE approved). The National African American Read-In Series 2 is from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 23 at the Gandhi-King Center, and is sponsored by the Black Student Organization. The read-in features readings from the works of James Baldwin, Toni Cade Bambora, Gwendolyn Brooks, and others.

DancExel presents “The Spirit of the Baobab Tree,” sponsored by the BSO, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 29 in Harre Union Ballroom C. A performing dance group from Gary, Ind., with disciplines in dance and the creative arts will showcase its latest production. Admission is free for Valpo students, faculty and staff, with tickets available for pickup. Tickets for the general public are $10.

For more information on these and other events, contact the Office of Multicultural Programs at 219.464.6769 or valpo.edu/multicultural.

About Valparaiso University
Valparaiso University is a comprehensive university with more than 4,000 students on its campus located in Northwest Indiana, an hour from Chicago. Valpo is a community of purpose-driven, service-minded and ethical individuals who embrace the pursuit of truth with freedom, humility and compassion. Valpo has been identified as one of the top master’s-level institutions in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report magazine for the past 22 years. Valparaiso University offers 110 undergraduate academic programs through the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering and Nursing. Valpo also has a distinguished honors college, a School of Law and more than 40 degree and certificate programs in its Graduate School and Continuing Education Division. Valpo has been recognized for its commitment to outstanding teaching, preparing thoughtful leaders with strong cross-cultural skills and global awareness, and dedication to serving others.