In celebration of Black History Month, a seminar titled “Civil Rights…Unfinished Business,” was held in the auditorium of the architecture building on Feb.12.
The provost, Dr. E. Joahanne Thomas-Smith, spoke to students about the history of Prairie View and the wonderful students who graduated from the university. She said, “Prairie View is a part of everyday people doing magnificent things.”
Following her speech, the students of Prairie View Productive Poets came to the stage and each one of them recited their own poem concerning their views and emotions on civil rights. Brandon Jackson, a senior history major, introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Gena Rae McNeal.
McNeal was asked to speak to the students about her experiences and knowledge about the civil rights era. She encouraged students to try to get more out of their education and about not letting anything get in their way.
“You must practice persistence by working through difficulties,” she said.
McNeal then spoke about the history of Mary Frances Berry, who served on the Civil Rights Commission.
She used that story to help students understand that they can do anything that they put their minds to. She said, “Everyone should become a scholar. Each of us can become his or her best seller.”
McNeal also spoke about students being challenged by their own limitations. “I encourage you to remember to find the most significant way to make a contribution. Establish a goal that you can achieve,” she said to the students.