by Meghan Grainer, Timothy Stanford and Abbey Stoneman
The PTSA hosted its Fourth Annual Celebration of African-American Heritage in February; this year’s theme was “There Is a King in You.”
Musical performers in the program included the VHS jazz band, New Era (two Hermitage students), Voices of Vision from St. Paul’s Baptist Church and the VHS women’s choir and honors choir. Students read aloud short biographies of trailblazing African-Americans, and the Tracie Tillman Dance Ministry performed. Ron Keith of Cross Dynamics was the guest speaker.
PTSA member Donna Roots organized the event and chose its theme. She got the idea for “There Is a King in You” as she listened to a song of the same name by Donald Lawrence.
“The intent is that somebody will be inspired or moved in some way,” Mrs. Roots said.
Seniors Nia Simms, Jacob Hudson, Kiana Warren, Justin Bartlett, Jordan Hanford and Adrian Carpenter made presentations about African-American trailblazers.
Jacob said the program helped him to understand and value black history month.
“I have more appreciation for the symbolism of the month,” Jacob said.
As master and mistress of ceremonies, seniors Tony Tate and Darian Verse introduced each performer. Both said they were nervous but excited to host the event.
“Public speaking is not my thing, but I was really looking forward to it,” Tony said.
Guest speaker Ron Keith spoke about being a leader in a community and shared steps to success and right decision-making.
In the weeks prior to the program, 53 students entered the annual essay contest. They wrote about African-Americans who inspired them by words or actions to find the “King in you.”
In previous years, fewer than 20 writers had entered the essay, so Mrs. Roots, who also scored the essays, said she was happy to have more students involved.
“I scored the essays on following directions, originality and which were more provoking,” Mrs. Roots said.
Essay contest winners, seniors Camryn Bouldin and Alpha Mansaray, both won a trophy with their name engraved on it and a $25 cash prize.
Camryn wrote her two-page essay about a 70-year-old woman at her church who lived through the segregation era.
“It took me like a month and a half to write the essay; I spent two hours every day on it, and I interviewed people,” Camryn said.
Camryn said the night’s theme meant to her that dreams can always be achieved in life.
Alpha wrote about his aunt, an owner of a non-profit organization that gives school supplies and books to children in Africa.
“I think my essay won because it was one of a kind,” Alpha said.
Mrs. Roots said she would continue to participate in the planning of this event after her stepson graduates from Varina.
“I think this program is vital because African-American history is often omitted from textbooks, so it is important that we share our history not just with African-Americans, but with our community as a whole,” Mrs. Roots said.
Mrs. Roots said she wants adults to be affected by the program as much as students; it is one for all ages.
She said that the program was a success if even one person in the audience was inspired.
Mrs. Hicks, who attends the event each year, said, “Each year is better than the last.”
Kiana said those that did not attend should mark it on their calendars for next year.
“You missed out on a good night,” Kiana said.
Recent Comments