Under the leadership of the Office of the Provost, Oakwood University has planned a variety of activities for the observance of Black History Month 2021. Events are planned with a strong education component about the African American experience throughout history. During the first week, the virtual chapel service on Thursday, February 4, will honor African American Women. The program will feature a panel discussion with Jordan Hora, Director of communication for T.D. Jakes Ministries; Elaine Vanterpool, Ph.D., Chair, Department of Biological Sciences at Oakwood; and alumna Whitney Morrison, soprano.
On Thursday, February 11 during the Frank Hale Diversity Chapel, the speaker will be Dr. Kevin McDonald, Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Community Partnerships at the University of Virginia.
For their work in improving the lives of Huntsville and Madison County residents, the following Community Heroes will be honored:

• Week 1 – Ms. Violet Edwards – Madison County Commissioner, District 6
• Week 2 – Rev. Dr. Julius Scruggs – Senior Pastor, First Missionary Baptist Church
• Week 3 – Ms. Marilyn King-Jordan – Community Activist
• Week 4 – Mr. Antonio McGinnis – Director, Huntsville Housing Authority

One special highlighted event to honor OUr Black History is an acknowledgement of the centennial of Dr. Eva B. Dykes receiving her doctorate. This event will be a drive-through at the Oakwood Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Other events during the month will be posted in next week’s edition of InsideOakwood.