For new program director Dr. Cyril Daddieh, enjoying his first Black Studies Commencement Banquet, this was a gala welcome, while for founding director Dr. Tony Affigne, this year's banquet marked farewell, after three years directing the Program.

In the photo above, from left to right: Ian Holder (Psychology), Gloria Anglón (individualized: "Diversity, Business and Politics"), program director Dr. Cyril Daddieh, Megan Trask (Political Science), and Leanardo Watson (Secondary Education, History).

The keynote address was given by our very special guest, the new director of the Multicultural Center at the University of Rhode Island. Dr. Melvin Wade inspired students and guests with his message of confidence and perseverance.

Dr. Melvin Wade

Dr. Wade urged the graduating seniors to recognize the importance of Black Studies in their own lives and for the Black community as a whole. His own discovery of Black Studies, he said, represented a turning point in his life, as it did for thousands of others across the country.

Dr. Wilesse Comissiong, Dean of Multicultural Affairs and Black Studies Committee member, joined Dr. Charlotte O'Kelly to present

Dr. Charlotte O'Kelly, Dean Wilesse Comissiong

the Black Studies minors with Kente stoles signifying their completion of program requirements.

Each of the proud seniors received a hand-woven stole, brought from Ghana by Dr. Daddieh, embroidered with "Black Studies" and "Class of 1999."

As they did last year, the stoles will bring a dash of African colors to this year's graduation ceremony at the Providence Civic Center.

Hugs and smiles from two of the Program's most popular faculty made the Kente presentations especially meaningful to the Class of '99!

The evening was also an opportunity for friends old and new to join us in c

Tanisha Brown '01, Fara McFarlane '00

elebrating the growth and development of the Program in Black Studies. Rising students in the program, as well as alumni, came to visit and congratulate the seniors.

Tanisha Brown and Fara McFarlane (both Class of 2001) were there, saying fond farewells to this year's graduates.

Back from a year living in Evreux, France, Alda Farlow '98 brought smiles all around as she practiced her English on this year's graduates! Alda,

Alda Farlow '98

who served as Program Assistant for two years, seemed happy with how things have been going since her departure for the excitement of Europe — and we were all happy to see her again.

Another "old timer" who came back for the Banquet was Aris Vasquez '97, one of the student founders of the Program in 1995. Aris has been working as an admissions officer for the College,

Aris Vasquez '97

and told us how much the Program helps in his efforts to recruit more students of color to Providence College.

Tajuan Greene (Class of 1997) stopped by to wish friend Leo Watson the best, and to give expert commentary on the catered banquet!

Once again, the Annual Commencement Banquet was a grand event. Black Studies minors from the Class of 1999 were honored for their

Leo Watson, Tajuan Greene '97

achievements and presented with Kente stoles, symbolizing their accomplishment. Rising students were encouraged to continue in the program.

Proud parents were on hand to share their students' joy and sadness. Guests from the College and the community were introduced to the Program's students and faculty.

We bid welcome to our new director Dr. Cyril Daddieh, and adieu to Dr. Tony Affigne, who led the Program through its first three years.

Dr. Tony Affigne at the 1998 Commencement

All in all, a wonderful experience for everyone who attended, and something to look forward to for next year!