The Africana Studies Program is hosting a student/faculty meet and greet to help students get to know what the program is about and what sort of courses are involved.

The program, led by Dr. Christopher Kovats-Bernat, is new to the university this fall. Students completing a sequence of courses can earn a minor in Africana Studies.

 “I think that one of the most unique things about Africana Studies that you don’t find in other programs at Wilkes is that it really centers Black voices and Africana scholarship,” Kovats-Bernat said. “In doing so, it creates a kind of safe space in the classroom for us to talk about things like democracy, justice, equality and freedom; topics that aren’t so easily engaged in other programs around campus.”

The program is more than just classes; it is an experience. When students take the courses, they are transported back to the times of the Haitian Revolution or the Harlem Renaissance to learn about topics that are rarely discussed in grade school history courses.

 This meet and greet will focus mainly on gaining the interest of the students that may have a secret passion or interest in learning about these kinds of topics. “What we’re hoping for with an event like this is to get visibility for Africana Studies,” Kovats-Bernat said.
Twelve professors from the program will be at the meeting to answer any questions the students may have on the classes or topics themselves. There will also be food provided by the local Jamaican restaurant, Caribbean Paradise. 

Current students in the program are encouraged to attend, and all students are welcome to bring a friend.

“I’m really excited to be able to talk to other professors teaching this course and connect with other students,” said Katelyn Helmer, a student taking Intro to Africana Studies. 

 The event will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. on Oct. 30 in the first-floor student lounge of the Henry Student Center.