“Remember our legacy”: New Paltz’s second annual Black History Convocation uplifts and inspires
More than 250 students, staff and faculty came together on Feb. 19 for a vibrant, moving Black History Convocation featuring performances, awards and a keynote address from Antonio Delgado, Lieutenant Governor of the State of New York.
“We need to remember our legacy,” said Lieutenant Governor Delgado. “Do not let the winds of adversity let hope fade away. We will see our way through.”
The annual ceremony was a celebration of unity and commitment to honoring Black history and culture, while also providing a meaningful platform for community empowerment. It came together through efforts led by Assistant Professor of Black Studies Shelton K. Johnson, in collaboration with partners in the Department of Black Studies, the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and many other units across campus.
“We know what our students and faculty are grappling with and events like this are a reminder of what we can be,” Johnson said.
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The roster of guest speakers underscored strong ties between the University and the surrounding community. Particularly inspiring remarks were delivered by Esi Lewis, founder, president and executive director of the Dr. Margaret Wade-Lewis Center in New Paltz.
“It is my dream there will be a day where Black history is celebrated every day,” said Lewis. “We contributed so much to this country. When given the opportunity, we can build greatness.”
Other elements of the program included performances from Afro-beat student dance team Golden Roots and the campus gospel choir Voices of Unity, and spoken word readings from poet Quincy Simmons ’26 (Journalism) and Black Studies Adjunct Ciesta Quinn, who recited an African American Spiritual.
Quinn’s contributions were recognized with the presentation of the Zelbert Moore Legacy Award, which honors one student and one faculty member who embody the excellence in scholarship and community engagement of the late, beloved Professor Emeritus Zelbert Moore.
“This is the job I was put here to do, and this award validates my work,” said Quinn. “I’m still doing what I’ve been doing since the 1970s, and that’s because the children need this education.”
This year’s student recipient was Kristelle Pradieu ’25 (Black Studies; Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies). Through support from New Paltz’s Scholars’ Mentorship Program, Pradieu has pursued a variety of academic opportunities, including studying abroad through the University of Limerick in Ireland.
“I am humbled and deeply grateful,” she said. “Your belief in my work means the world to me.”
Click here to learn more about the Department of Black Studies at SUNY New Paltz.