Contact: Dr. Donna M. Simon (304) 766-3363 dsimon@wvstateu.edu
INSTITUTE, W.Va. – A leading sociologist and scholar who specializes in diversity and race relations will deliver the keynote address at a Black History Month Convocation hosted by West Virginia State University (WVSU) on Tuesday, Feb. 5.
Dr. JeffriAnne Wilder, an assistant professor of sociology at the University of North Florida, will be the featured speaker at the Convocation, which will begin at 10 a.m. in the Ferrell Hall Auditorium.
Wilder writes, researches and lectures on the contemporary experience of black Americans and other racial and ethnic minorities. She has a particular interest in the issue of ‘colorism’ in black American society, which is defined as an intra-racial division operating within communities of color.
Wilder’s work has focused on examining the impact of colorism within the black community, particularly as it relates to black women and girls.
At the University of North Florida, she regularly teaches “Sociology of Black Americans,” “Racial & Cultural Minorities” and “Sociological Theory.” She also recently developed the special topics course “Colorism in the United States.”
Wilder’s work has been published in a variety of academic journals and publications, and she regularly speaks at events around the country on race, gender, and diversity issues.
The Black History Month Convocation is presented by the WVSU Student Government Association and the NAACP, and representatives of both groups will also be speaking at the event.
The WVSU Concert Choir will also perform musical several selections as part of the Convocation.
Immediately following the Convocation in the Wilson University Union will be a Taste of Soul Food. This popular Black History Month event allows everyone to sample popular African-American dishes.
During this event, tickets are sold for 25 cents apiece. Meat dishes require three tickets, side dishes require two tickets and desserts require one ticket.
Menu items typically include barbecue chicken, fried chicken, fried pork chops, ham, turkey, liver and baked or fried fish.
Side dishes typically include mashed potatoes, rice, dumplings, mustard greens, okra, sweet potato casserole and pinto beans. Desserts include cobblers, pies, pudding and cheesecake.