Living King's Legacy

Trine marks Black History Week

ANGOLA – Trine University is encouraging others to consider “Living King’s Legacy” during the 22nd annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Feb. 20-24, which is Black History Week at the school.

The event will feature Debra Faye Williams-Robbins, J.D, a high school area administrator for Fort Wayne Community Schools, who will speak Friday, Feb. 24, at 7 p.m. in Fabiani Theatre. The public is welcome to attend.

A graduate of Earlham College, Williams-Robbins went on to earn her master’s at Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort Wayne. During her career she has served her community as a resource teacher, dean, counselor and principal. After noticing a trend in education that made her see the need for more legal knowledge in education, she earned her Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 2000.

Following Williams-Robbins presentation, the Imani Baptist Temple Praise Ensemble, one of the most inspiring Gospel groups in the state, will perform. Affectionately known as “The Maestro,” Gor’Don Martin leads a stellar group of singers and musicians in communication the historic passion and power of African-American spiritual music. Providing a blend of traditional and contemporary selections, their concerts seek to draw diverse audiences into a sense of spiritual unity and social continuity.  

The community is invited to take part in a Soul Food Fest Monday, Feb. 20, beginning at 5 p.m. in Whitney Commons in the University Center. A buffet will feature traditional recipes created and recognized by African-Americans. The menu includes Tennessee fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits and country gravy, cheddar jalapeno beer brats, fried catfish, slow-smoked Memphis brisket, okra with remoulade sauce, deep south gumbo, barbecued chicken pizza, pecan pie, banana short cake and red velvet cake.

Chris Worth, a Fort Wayne musician who regularly performs throughout northeast Indiana, will entertain the community and students Thursday, Feb. 23, from 5-7 p.m. during dinner in Whitney Commons in the University Center.

All are welcome as the Multicultural Student Organization (MSO) hosts its annual Open Mic Night in Fabiani Theatre at 7 p.m. Performances will include poetry or spoken word or a capella singing. Prizes will be awarded. Those who are interested in participating should contact Deborah McHenry at 260.665.4509 or mchenryd@trine.edu.

To share your news, contact Trine University communication specialist Lindsay Winslow Brown at winslowbrownl@trine.edu.