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SUNY New Paltz hosts annual Black History Convocation on Feb. 19

Mallika Rao

All members of the community are invited to join SUNY New Paltz students, faculty and staff at the second annual Black History Convocation hosted by the Department of Black Studies on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Studley Theatre on the SUNY New Paltz campus.

This evening of reflection, inspiration and celebration will feature a Keynote Address from Antonio Delgado, Lieutenant Governor of the State of New York. A trailblazer in public service and a passionate advocate for education and social justice, Lieutenant Governor Delgado has dedicated his career to uplifting communities and driving meaningful change. His words will challenge us to reflect on history, embrace the present, and step boldly into the future.

“As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the courage of those who came before us—leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who dreamed of justice, and Congressman John Lewis, who showed us how to make ‘good trouble’ for the sake of progress,” said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. “Their sacrifices paved the way for where we stand today, but our work is not finished, and I am honored to join the New Paltz community to uplift the legacies of those who came before us and look to them for guidance as our fight for progress continues.”

This event is free and open to the public. Attendees are asked to RSVP in advance at www.newpaltz.edu/bhmconvo.

The Convocation will feature dynamic performances and presentations that honor the rich cultural heritage of Black history, with a goal of creating a moment of unity, empowerment, and recognition of Black excellence here in the Hudson Valley and beyond.

The program includes the presentation of the Dr. Zelbert Moore Legacy Award to one faculty/staff member or alum and one student. The award is named in honor of a revered professor emeritus in the Department of Black Studies who dedicated more than 30 years to shaping minds and advancing social justice.

If you have accessibility questions or require accommodations to fully participate in this event, or if you need more information, please contact Dr. Shelton K. Johnson, convocation chair, at johnsonks@newpaltz.edu as soon as possible.