Your Alma Mater by President Sharon Gaber
Black History Month helps students find purpose
On Saturday, Feb. 4, The University of Toledo kicked off its annual celebration of Black History Month to an auditorium packed full of UT students, faculty and community members in the Thompson Student Union. The keynote speaker, Dr. Angela Davis – scholar, author and Distinguished Professor Emerita at the University of California, Santa Cruz – reminded participants to advocate for others through community involvement.
The primary goal of higher education, and certainly here at UT, is student success. We achieve that through outstanding faculty; nationally recognized research; the on-campus experience in our residence halls and Greek life; myriad student clubs; internships and co-ops; mentorships by leaders, including UT alumni; community service; and lectures by well-known national figures who offer varying perspectives.
More so than when most of us were undergraduates, today’s increasing out-of-classroom activities provide students with hands-on experience that complements coursework and often not only expands their world view, but also motivates them to find their true passion. Do you remember when you found yours?
That sudden “spark” that ignites the fire in your belly is well worth any amount of time spent attending a Saturday luncheon to listen to a lecture; working late at the office; weekend volunteering; or heeding wisdom from a coach, teacher or spiritual leader. It’s your passion that drives a successful career … and helps to ensure lifelong, personal happiness.
Encouraging students to discover their purpose is a profound privilege! That’s why during February, UT annually hosts an array of Black History Month activities to provide students additional ways to raise their awareness of others and of issues they can help to address.
Sincere thanks to UT alumni whose continued support – through attendance at UT events, Foundation donations, co-op offerings, scholarships and other gifts of time, talent and personal resources – further prepare our students to find their purpose and make a real difference. Go Rockets!
