From discussion panels to movie nights, Jacksonville University is celebrating Black History Month 2021 with a schedule of events that highlights the unique issues, accomplishments and perseverance of the African American community in America. The University’s Special Task Force on Inclusion Culture and Equity has worked diligently, along with the Black Alumni Network, faculty and staff, to curate events that provide an opportunity to reflect on the significant role African Americans have played in shaping the history of this nation and in contributing in numerous ways to its progress.
February 1, 2021
Black Professionals Panel
5:00 p.m. — Virtual
Hosted by Career Management, a distinguished group of panelists will discuss their
professional journeys and roads to success. A Q&A session will provide an opportunity
for Jacksonville University students to ask questions of their own. Students can register
on Handshake .
February 2, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series
Topic: Mental Health Impacts of Racial Battle Fatigue
12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing
the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month.
Dr. Natalie Indelicato and Mr. Michael Robinson kick off the series with a discussion
about the mental health impacts of racial battle fatigue. More information is available here.
February 9, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series
Topic: This Far by Faith: The Intersection of Spirituality and Mental Health in the
Black Community
12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing
the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month.
This session is presented by Dr. LaTonya Summers and Mr. Isaac Wells who will discuss
the intersection of spirituality and mental health in the Black community. More information
is available here.
February 9, 2021
Raisin’ the bar: Oatmeal Bar & Yoga
9:00 – 10:30 a.m. — Campus RecWell
In partnership with the Student Health Center Keigwin School of Nursing and Campus RecWell, JU is shining a light on the increased risk of heart disease,
stroke, and diabetes within the African American community. Blood pressure checks
will be available to attendees, and Campus RecWell will lead a yoga class starting
at 9:30 a.m. Free oatmeal bars with toppings will be provided by Aramark while supplies
last.
February 10, 2021
An Era of Racial Terror: Jacksonville’s Legacy of Lynching
7:00 p.m. — Virtual
Dr. Scott Matthews, assistant professor of history at Edward Waters College in Jacksonville,
and Dr. Scott Matthews, a professor of history at Florida State College of Jacksonville,
will give a virtual presentation about the history of racial terror lynchings in Jacksonville.
For more information, please contact Dr. Jesse Hingson, professor of history and chair
of the division of social sciences at Jacksonville University.
February 10, 2021
Race and Policing: An Honest Conversation
6:30 p.m. — Virtual
A panel of professionals featuring former Jacksonville police officer and sheriff
Nat Glover will discuss different perspectives on race and police. More information
is available here.
February 16, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series
Topic: Taking a Stand and Taking a Knee: Social Justice Activism in Sports
12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing
the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month.
This session is provided by Dr. Alyssa Zajdel who will discuss social justice and
activism in sports. More information is available here.
February 23, 2021
Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series
Topic: Run Toward Your Biases
12:30 p.m. — Virtual
The Diversity and Discussion Speaker Series explores topics related to issues facing
the Black community. Four different discussions will be held throughout the month.
This session is presented by Dr. Tom Geismar who will discuss racial biases. More
information is available here.
February 23, 2021
2021 Black History Showcase
7:00 to 8:30 p.m. — Virtual
Presented by the Jacksonville University Black Alumni Network, this entertaining event
will feature the contributions of Black alumni artists, writers and performers. Musical
performances, poetry/spoken word, skits, dances, and much more will be presented. Registration is required.
February 25, 2021
42 at the Field – Movie Night
7:00 p.m.
John Sessions Stadium
Gather and spread out at John Sessions Stadium for the screening of “42,” a feel-good
drama about the early career of Jackie Robinson, the first Black baseball player in
Major League Baseball.
