The Panther

Prairie View A&M University hosted a Black History Month kick-off Monday with President George C. Wright giving a passionate lecture titled, "From the Housing Projects to the Presidency of PVAMU."

The event was held in the Willie A. Tempton Sr. Memorial Center.

The theme was Living the Dream, Let Freedom Ring, Stepping Into Black History Month 2008.

An array of students and staff came together to share their knowledge of black life.

SGA Vice President Johnie Jones III opened by reciting the poem titled "Do I Call It Freedom," encouraging the audience to think beyond the surface and understand what it means to be black.

"We are celebrating the contributions and achievements of black people," Jones said. "If people want to go far in life it is important that they have a strong understanding of where they came from."

Jamie Jackson, Miss Prairie View 2007-2008, said, "A people without knowledge of their past, is like a tree without a root."

Wright began his personal odyssey by letting everyone know that goal setting is important.

"You should start with a goal and follow through with executing it," Wright said.

He believes that black people should be persistent when it comes to reaching a goal.

Despite all obstacles any man puts forth, blacks should persevere and do the impossible.

A native of Lexington, Ky., Wright gave his all to make a better life for himself, he said.

After receiving his undergraduate and master's degrees from the University of Kentucky, he went on to Duke University for his doctorate. He set his mind on becoming an accomplished scholar.

Despite the many tribulations he had to break through, and all the hard work he endured, he proudly grabbed the position of university president and endeavors to motivate the student body to aim high, never settle for less, and strive just as he did.

Article Tools