Halifax Community College hosted a special program February 20 in celebration of "Black History Month." The event was sponsored by the HCC African American Society under the leadership of Grace Edwards, HCC director of student support services.

The highlight of the program was an address by Dr. Roosevelt Askew, (left) counselor from Elizabeth City State University and director of the Center for Alternative Programs through Education (C.A.P.E.). The distinguished guest kept his audience enthralled with his down-to-earth philosophy in delivering his message - "Remember Your Past in Shaping Your Future."

Dr. Askew received a standing ovation at the end of his remarks and kept the large audience’s attention as he recalled experiences from his youth and the values we all have gained from our elders. He reminded all those present how important it is to respect and hold dear the things we have learned from our grandparents and other familial influences.

Dr. Roosevelt is himself a product of the community college system for he began his formal education at Roanoke Chowan Community College. He now also holds a master’s degree, a doctorate of divinity and is currently working on yet another Ph.D.

HCC faculty and staff joined in singing "Lift Every Voice and Sing"during the Black History Month Celebration at HCC last week.

Following the program, the guests were invited to a "food tasting" where soul food was the focus. Students, faculty and staff lined up for delectable delicacies prepared by some of HCC’s best cooks. The culinary extravaganza included collard greens, navy beans, black-eyed peas, fried chicken, souse, sweet potatoes of every description, and corn bread. No one went home hungry!