Education
Penn State Celebrates Black History Month with Diverse Events Across Campuses
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State University is set to host a series of events across its campuses from late January through February 2025 in honor of National Black History Month. The programming, organized by various student groups and university departments, aims to celebrate African American culture, history, and achievements through art, music, discussions, and educational activities.
The month-long celebration kicks off with “Replenish,” an event on Jan. 29 at the HUB-Robeson Center’s Heritage Hall. Attendees can enjoy a meal, live performances, and conversations about the intersection of art and culture. Free sustainable utensil sets and recipe cards will be distributed to first-time participants.
On Feb. 1, the “Black Women’s Brunch” will honor the contributions of African American women, past and present. The event, a collaboration between the Paul Robeson Cultural Center and several student organizations, will feature keynote speakers and performances.
Other highlights include a virtual tour of Penn State’s Center for Black Digital Research on Feb. 4, exploring the Colored Conventions movement and Black women intellectuals. A multimedia art installation by Sydnie L. Mosley Dances will take place Feb. 4-6 at Eisenhower Auditorium, showcasing performances from “PURPLE: A Ritual in Nine Spells.”
On Feb. 12, Penn State Sustainability and WPSU will host an online film screening and panel discussion about the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color. The event will feature experts discussing lessons learned and strategies for improving community health.
Additional events include the “PRCC Black History Month Fun Friday” on Feb. 14, featuring food, games, and music, and “Brother You’re On My Mind” on Feb. 20, a mental health awareness program with keynote speaker Johnnie Geathers.
The month will conclude with a curator-led tour of the exhibition “Defining the New Negro: Voices of the Harlem Renaissance a Century Later” on Feb. 27, followed by a QTPOC Fashion Show celebrating queer ballroom culture.
Penn State’s Black History Month events are free and open to the public, offering opportunities for education, reflection, and celebration of African American heritage.
