Student Affairs > Office of Multicultural Affairs > Events and Programs

Events and Programs

The Office of Multicultural Affairs offers various educational programs for students, faculty and staff such as guest speakers on a variety of topics, diversity trainings, documentary screenings and discussions, attending theatrical and musical performances, and discussions on various cultural topics, just to name a few.

Below is a list of upcoming OMA events and programs as well as examples of our past activities. Please check back later for updates on events and newly listed events. All locations, dates and times are subject to change.

If you have a question about an upcoming event please don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Hannah Clayborne (hclayborne@bellarmine.edu) or Mr. Ryan Simpson (rsimpson@bellarmine.edu).

Spring 2012 Programs

Dialogue on Diversity series: Women in Politics. Where's the Balance?
Dialogue on Diversity is a monthly program for faculty and staff only that examines the different aspects of diversity. The presenter for this month is Ms. Kathy Groob, Publisher of Elect Women Magazine. Ms. Groob will discuss the collective effort nationwide that is needed to recruit and train more women to run for public office.
If you are interested in attending, please contact Dr. Hannah Clayborne.

Dates: Wednesday, January 11
Time: Noon - 1 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room in Horrigan Hall

MLK Day of Service
MLK National Day of Service is an initiative that encourages individuals to volunteer in their communities as a way of honoring the life and contributions of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. On January 16th, Bellarmine students, staff and faculty will have an opportunity to volunteer at Gilda’s Club, South Louisville Community Ministry or the Nazareth Home. Projects at these sites include but are not limited to painting, cleaning, preparing meals, and visiting residents. For additional information about these projects, contact Hannah Clayborne ext. 8070.

Date: Monday, January 16
Time: 1 - 4 p.m. (for most sites)
Location: Sites include Gilda’s Club, The Nazareth Home and South Louisville Community Ministries.

Black History Month Visual Art Competition
OMA is holding a visual art competition as a part of the February celebrations. The theme for the competition is “Tradition” and all entries should be related to this theme. Various forms of artwork are eligible and the deadline for entries is Monday, January 16th at 5pm. There is a high school division and college division and the winner of each wins $200! Be sure to contact Ryan Simpson to get the contest rules and entry form.

Date: Submissions due by Monday, January 16
Time: 5 p.m.

Screening and discussion of “If These Halls Could Talk” – by Lee Mun Wah (invitation only)
If our halls could talk, what would they say about the alarming rates of students of color leaving our colleges? What would they say are some of the causes for their departures? What would our students say it is like to be a minority student at a predominantly white campus? When conflicts arise around diversity issues on the campus and in the classroom, are administrators and teachers prepared to handle them? What are some of the solutions needed to confront these problems? These and many other issues are discussed in this dynamic and electrifying new film directed and produced by Lee Mun Wah.

Date: Tuesday, January 17 and Wednesday, January 18
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. both evenings
Location: Fireplace Room in Horrigan Hall

MLK Lecture
OMA will continue to celebrate Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy with a guest lecture by Rev. Diane Brown, Associate Pastor of St. Stephen’s Church in Louisville. Contact Dr. Hannah Clayborne for more information.

Date: Thursday, January 19
Time: 11 a.m. - Noon
Location: Hilary’s

Lunar New Year Celebration
OMA has partnered with the Chinese Club and others to put together a Lunar New Year Celebration. Festivities include a performance by the Lion Dance Group, dumplings, calligraphy and much more. Be sure to join the fun!
Contact Ryan Simpson or Christine Hutchins for more information.

Date: Monday, January 23
Time: 3 - 7 p.m.
Location: Frazier Hall

Dialogue on Diversity series: Linguistic Code Switching: How to Teach Children the Language of Power
Dialogue on Diversity is a monthly program for faculty and staff only that examines the different aspects of diversity. The presenter for this month is Dr. Kathleen Cooter, Professor of Special Education and Leadership at Bellarmine University. The session will investigate the primacy and importance of the home language/dialect as well as give some demonstrations how schools and others can develop this bi-lingual skill in children who can have pride and function in both languages.
If you are interested in attending, please contact Dr. Hannah Clayborne.

Dates: Wednesday, February 1
Time: Noon - 1 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room in Horrigan Hall

Black History Month Festival of Music Awards Luncheon
The Bellarmine University Chorale’s Black History Month Festival of Music in conjunction with the Kentuckiana Chapter of the National Association of Negro Musicians (KANM) presents its first Black History Month Awards Luncheon. For additional information and ticket prices contact Dr. Alexander T. Simpson, Jr.

Date: Saturday, February 4
Time: 1 p.m.

3rd Annual Voice Competition
This unique and exciting event is sponsored by the Bellarmine University Music Department, the Chorale’s Black History Month Festival of Music, the Black Student Union, and KANM (the Kentucky Chapter of the National Association of Negro Musicians). This state-wide vocal competition features both Collegiate and High School Divisions and requires all contestants to offer a ‘Traditional Negro Spiritual’ or a classical composition by an African-American composer. Contact Dr. Alexander T. Simpson, Jr. for more information. This event is free and open to the public.

Date: Saturday, February 11 – Collegiate Division, Saturday, February 18 – High School Division
Time: 1 p.m. each day
Location: Wilson W. Wyatt Performing Arts Center

Panel Discussion: “The Influences of Black Churches on Politics”
Panelists will share their perspectives, experience and knowledge of the past and present influences of black churches on local, state and national politics. Audience members are encouraged to take part in this discussion. Light refreshments will be served. For more information contact Ryan Simpson.

Dates: Thursday, February 16
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Hilary’s in Horrigan Hall

Faculty Jazz Band Performance
Come enjoy the smooth sounds of Bellarmine’s Faculty Jazz Band as they perform their favorites pieces! For more information contact Ryan Simpson.

Dates: TBD
Time: TBD
Location: Couches area of Horrigan Hall

2012 Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Talent Hunt
The Bellarmine Chorale’s Black History Month Festival of Music is once again co-sponsoring the Annual Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Talent Hunt! Originally started in 1946, this yearly contest exposes young people to the arts and gives them a platform to display their talents. Winners receive monetary prizes and the winner of the top prize represents Louisville in the Omega’s national competition! Contact Dr. Alexander T. Simpson, Jr. for more information. This event is free and open to the public.

Date: Sunday, February 19
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Wilson W. Wyatt Performing Arts Center

Trip to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
OMA and numerous other co-sponsors are taking interested students, faculty and staff to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, OH during February. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a Smithsonian Institution affiliate, a museum of ideas, a site of conscience, a museum of American history, a museum of African American history, an educational resource and a center for dialogue (http://www.freedomcenter.org/). Don’t miss out on this great opportunity! Each participant will need to contribute $10 towards the trip and your space must be reserved on the bus in order to attend. For more information and to reserve a space, contact Ryan Simpson.

Dates: Saturday, February 25
Time: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Location: The Freedom Center, Cincinnati, OH

2012 Black History Month Concert
Come enjoy beautiful music performed by Bellarmine students, faculty and local artists as they perform works by famous African American composers in celebration of Black History Month! This event is sponsored by the Bellarmine University Music Department, the Chorale’s Black History Month Festival of Music, the Black Student Union, KANM (the Kentucky Chapter of the National Association of Negro Musicians), and the BU Music in the Black Church IDC Seminar. Contact Dr. Alexander T. Simpson, Jr. for more information. This event is free and open to the public.

Date: Sunday, February 26
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Wilson W. Wyatt Performing Arts Center

Service Project
For Black History Month, OMA will be volunteering with St. Stephens Church. OMA along with interested Bellarmine students, staff and community members will assist St. Stephens in services they need assistance with following one of their Sunday masses. Be sure to take part to assist this great community institution and to learn more about their history and activities.

Dates: TBD
Time: TBD
Location: St. Stephens Church, 1018 South 15th St.

Sixth Annual Thomas Merton Lecture – Featuring Rosanne Haggerty
This year’s presenter is Ms. Rosanne Haggerty who in 1991 established Common Ground Community (www.commonground.org), which has become the preeminent supporting housing provider in the country and an innovative developer of strategic solutions for the problem of homelessness. The organization’s view that homelessness is solvable rests on a strategy of moving long-term homeless people from the streets and shelters directly into housing, and on preventing homelessness by assisting vulnerable people to secure stable housing at moments of crisis. In 2001, Rosanne received a John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation “genius award,” in recognition of her work. This event is sponsored by the Thomas Merton Center. Contact Dr. Paul Pearson for more information about this event.

Date: Wednesday, February 29
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Frazier Hall

Black History Month: Suggested Books and Films
The following are suggested books and films for individuals to read during this history month:
“Good Hair” is a documentary film created by and featuring Chris Rock who explores the creation and purpose African American hair styles.

“Freedom Riders” is a PBS documentary which gives the story of the courageous band of civil rights activists called Freedom Riders who in 1961 challenged segregation in the American South.

“Two Centuries of Black Louisville: A Photographic History” is a book by Mervin Aubespin, Kenneth Clay and J. Blaine Hudson which tells this important Louisville story through words and images.

Dialogue on Diversity series: An Ethos of Southern India
Dialogue on Diversity is a monthly program for faculty and staff only that examines the different aspects of diversity. The presenter for this month is Fr. John Pozhathuparambil, of the Franciscan Conventual. The session is designed to give participants an opportunity to visit a culture across the oceans which has centuries of religious diversity. Father John will examine the ethos for such tolerance and peaceful coexistence, imbedded in the religious beliefs and practices in Southern India. If you are interested in attending, please contact Dr. Hannah Clayborne.

Dates: Wednesday, March 14
Time: Noon - 1 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room in Horrigan Hall

Panel Discussion: “Changing Roles of Women in Religious Institutions”
Panelists will share their perspectives, experience and knowledge of the changing roles of women in various religious institutions locally, in the US and around the world. Audience members are encouraged to take part in this discussion. Light refreshments will be served. For more information contact Ryan Simpson.

Dates: Thursday, March 15
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Hilary’s in Horrigan Hall

The Vagina Monologues at Bellarmine
The Vagina Monologues is an episodic play written by Eve Ensler. Each year this dynamic play is performed at Bellarmine to raise awareness and to raise funds to end violence against women. This year the funds raised will go to the Center for Women and Families. This performance is independently sponsored by the performers themselves. For more information contact the director, Arielle Clark.

Dates and Times: Friday, March 16 at 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 17 at 2 p.m.
Saturday, March 17 at 8 p.m. (Discussion panel to follow)
Location: Hilary’s in Horrigan Hall

Take Back the Night
Take Back the Night is an annual event for people to stand up and speak out against sexual violence, specifically against women. Be sure to take part in this event to show your support and to speak out against sexual violence. The event is sponsored by BU’s WinC (Women in College).

Dates: TBD
Time: TBD
Location: TBD

Supporting Women’s Sports
OMA and other sponsors are encouraging the Bellarmine community to attend more women’s sports this year and specifically during Women’s History Month (March). As a part of this support OMA and other campus sponsors are holding a cookout at the March 24th home softball game against the University of Indianapolis. Please be sure to come out to get some snacks and to support Bellarmine’s women’s sports. For more information contact Ryan Simpson.

Dates: Saturday, March 24
Time: Noon
Location: Bellarmine Softball Field

Service Project
For Women’s History Month, OMA will be volunteering at the Center for Women and Families (CWF). OMA along with interested Bellarmine students, staff and community members will assist CWF in projects they need assistance with at their main campus. Be sure to take part to assist this great community organization and to learn more about their history and activities.

Dates: Saturday, March 31
Time: TBD
Location: Center for Women and Families, 927 S 2nd St

Women’s History Month: Suggested Books and Films
The following are suggested books and films for individuals to read during this history month:
“Pink Politics” is a book by Kentuckian Kathy Groob, business woman turned elected official, which gives women a practical guide to women running for public office or just thinking of running for public office.

“Play Like a Man, Win Like a Woman” is a book by Gail Evans, one of the country's most powerful executives, which explores reasons why so few women are CEOs of major businesses.

“Pink Smoke Over the Vatican” is a documentary film which explores the controversial movement of women seeking to be ordained as priests in the Roman Catholic Church

Dialogue on Diversity Series: Ageism
Dialogue on Diversity is a monthly program for faculty and staff only that examines the different aspects of diversity. The presenter for this month is Ms. Cindy Venable of the Louisville Metro Community Services & Revitalization, Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens. Ms. Venable will provide an overview of the services and programs offered by the Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens and highlight issues related to ageism in the workplace. If you are interested in attending, please contact Dr. Hannah Clayborne.

Dates: Wednesday, April 4
Time: Noon - 1 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room in Horrigan Hall

Past Events: Fall 2011

IgKnight Welcome Cookout
Join OMA and the SuRF in welcoming incoming and returning students. Food, games, music, and fun.

Date: Sunday, August 21
Time: 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Location: The SuRF

Spanish Lunches
¡Hola! Want a regular opportunity to speak Spanish with others? Then come to the Spanish Lunches scheduled every Monday starting Sept. 12 through Nov. 28 from 12:30-1:30pm in the UDH Private Dining Room. The goal is to connect with other Spanish speakers who are native speakers, Spanish students, or beginners.

These are open to anyone who is interested, so don’t be shy and bring a friend. Individuals will have to use their meal cards or purchase their lunch to join us in the Private Dining Room. ¡Hasta pronto! For more information contact Ryan Simpson, rsimpson@bellarmine.edu

Date: Monday, September 12 – November 28
Time: 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Location: UDH Private Dining Room

Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month: Facts for Features
Each year September 15 - October 15 is celebrated as Hispanic Heritage month to celebrate and bring awareness to the cultures and traditions of Spanish speaking nations. “Facts for Features” lists various statistics about Hispanic/Latino populations in the U.S. (Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month Event). Learn more here.

Panel Discussion: “My Story: Immigration and Public Policies”
Panelists will share their immigration stories, current immigration policies and possible reforms. Light refreshments will be served. For more information contact Ryan Simpson, rsimpson@bellarmine.edu (Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month Event).

Date: Thursday, September 15
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Hilary’s in Horrigan Hall

Latin American Film Festival: “Reel” Guate
This year’s film festival will focus on Guatemala with numerous full length and short films. The films explore real issues of Guatemala’s current society with a focus on the urban landscape and experience. Directors and actors of the films will be in attendance on the September 23 and 30.

For more information contact Ryan Simpson, rsimpson@bellarmine.edu (Co-sponsored by UofL, Bellarmine’ s Global Languages and Cultures Department and the Bellarmine QEP)

Dates: Fridays and Saturdays, September 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, and October 1
Times: 7 p.m. each night
Location: Small Science Theatre (Pasteur 102)

Service Project
For Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month we will be volunteering with the Adelante Hispanic Achievers to help them with one of their events and learn more about their organization and services. Those who are interested should sign up with Ryan Simpson rsimpson@bellarmine.edu by 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 15. Carpooling can be arranged. (Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month Event)

Date: Saturday, September 17
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Adelante Hispanic Achievers

Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month: Suggested Books and Films
The following are suggested books and films for individuals to read during this heritage month:

Which Way Home by director Rebecca Cammisa. An award winning film about child migrants journeys through Mexico.
Latin Music USA on PBS. This PBS series explores the rise of Latin music in the US and its influence on hip-hop, jazz, rock and roll and American culture.
Love in the Time of Cholera A novel by Nobel Prize winning Colombian author Gabriel García Márquez is a classic love story
House on Mango Street is a coming-of-age novel by Mexican-American writer Sandra Cisneros

Service Project
For LGBTQ History Month we will be collecting donations for and taking part in the 2011 Louisville AIDS Walk on Sunday, September 25. We have a team fundraising goal of $600 and people can join the “BU OMA/BUknighted” team to help us reach our goal. Individuals can donate or join the fundraising team here.

For those who would like to participate in the walk on the 25 we will be gathering to carpool at the Café in Horrigan Hall and will be leaving at 12:30 p.m. The festivities at the Belvedere begin at 1 p.m. We will also gather near the photo booth at the Belvedere at 2:30 to walk together. Be sure to wear your Bellarmine colors and something with rainbow colors as well. This is a pet friendly event so bring them as well. Those who are interested in participating in the walk should sign up with Ryan Simpson rsimpson@bellarmine.edu by 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 23. (LGBTQ History Month Event cosponsored by BUknighted)

Date: Sunday, September 25
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: The Belvedere

Salsa Lessons
Come learn this exciting dance with a rich history! (Cosponsored by SGA, and is a Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month Event)

Dates: Tuesday nights, September 27 - October 25
Times: 8:30 - 9:30 p.m. each night
Location:Hilary’s in Horrigan Hall

Dialogue on Diversity Series: "Native Americans: The Invisible People" presented by Mr. Robert Roche
Dialogue on Diversity is a monthly program for faculty and staff only that examines the different aspects of diversity. Lunch is provided. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to Dr. Hannah Clayborne, hclayborne@bellarmine.edu.

Date: Wednesday, October 5
Time: Noon - 1 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room

Civil Rights Tour of Louisville
Join fellow students as they take a tour of historic civil rights landmarks in Louisville. Participants will be led by Mr. Ira Grupper an instructor at BU and local civil rights activist who knows US and Louisville civil rights history first hand. This year OMA will be taking a larger group to see even more historic civil rights sights around Louisville.

Space is limited so be sure to reserve a spot on the bus with Ryan Simpson rsimpson@bellarmine.edu as soon as possible. (Cosponsored by the IDC program, SGA and OMA)

Date: Saturday, October 15
Time: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Departing from Franciscan Circle

Panel Discussion: “Churches as Allies?”
Various faith and church representatives will discuss how their organizations are allies for LGBTQ individuals and communities, what they do to serve as allies, what changes they’ve made to become great allies, and what more could be done. A question and answer period will be given at the end of the discussion. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information contact Ryan Simpson, rsimpson@bellarmine.edu (LGBTQ History Month Event)

Date: Thursday, October 20
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Hilary’s in Horrigan Hall

LGBTQ History Month Concert
Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Transgender, and Questioning (LGBTQ) History Month Concert: Bellarmine University Students, Faculty and Guests, performing works by renowned LGBTQ composers (Cosponsored by the Music Department and is a LGBTQ History Month Event)

Date: Monday, October 31
Time: TBD
Location: Cralle Theatre

LGBTQ History Month: Suggested Books and Films
The following are suggested books and films for individuals to read during this history month:

Bullied is a documentary film that chronicles one student’s ordeal at the hands of anti-gay bullies and offers an inspiring message of hope to those fighting harassment today.
For the Bible Tells Me So is a documentary which explores the intersection of homosexuality and religion.
Out in the Country is a book by Dr. Mary Gray portrays and discusses youth, media and other queer visibility in rural America and Kentucky in particular.
Acts of Faith, Acts of Love a book by Dugan McGinley explores sexuality and identity and what it means to be gay and Catholic through numerous autobiographies.

Dialogue on Diversity Series: An overview of programs and services at South Louisville Community
Ministry presented by Mr. James Laemmle, Executive Director Dialogue on Diversity is a monthly program for faculty and staff only that examines the different aspects of diversity. Lunch is provided. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to Dr. Hannah Clayborne, hclayborne@bellarmine.edu.

Date: Wednesday, November 2
Time: Noon - 1 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room

Dialogue on Diversity (Conference)
Mr. Tim Wise author of "White Like Me" is the keynote speaker for this conference. Conference details and registration can be found here. For further information please contact Dr. Hannah Clayborne, hclayborne@bellarmine.edu.

Date: Friday, November 4
Time: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Galt House

Service Project
On Saturday, November 12th the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) will be attending the Akicita Wacipi Veterans PowWow at the Americana Community Center at 12:30pm. PowWows are primarily known as Native American gatherings to socialize, meet old friends, new people and may include praying, dancing, singing, and drums. Come join OMA to take part in this great event! As a part of this event we are collecting school supplies and children’s clothes which will then be distributed around to children in need.

Those who are interested in attending should sign up with Ryan Simpson rsimpson@bellarmine.edu by 5pm on Thursday, November 11th so that we can arrange carpooling. Those who would like to donate school supplies and children’s clothing should drop them off by November 11th to Ryan Simpson’s office (Horrigan 225J).

Date:Saturday, November 12
Time: 12:30 a.m.
Location: The Americana Community Center

Discussion: “Indian Boarding Schools”
OMA and audience members will discuss the history of Indian Boarding Schools, what effects this had on Native populations historically and today. A question and answer period will be given at the end of the discussion. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information contact Ryan Simpson, rsimpson@bellarmine.edu (Native American Heritage Month Event)

Date: Thursday, November 17
Time: 6 p.m.
Location: Hilary’s in Horrigan Hall

Safe Zone Training
Safe Zone training includes general information about LGBT issues, definition of terms, common misconceptions, what it means to be an ally and the coming out process. (Cosponsored by the Counseling Center)

Dates: Friday, November 18
Time: 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room in Horrigan Hall

Native American Heritage Month: Suggested Films
The following are suggested books and films for individuals to read during this heritage month:

Trudellis a documentary film about the engaging life story of activist-poet-prophet John Trudell.
We Shall Remain is an award winning PBS documentary series which establishes Native American history as essential to US history. Key segments of history are depicted from Native perspectives.

Dialogue on Diversity series:
Dialogue on Diversity is a monthly program for faculty and staff only that examines the different aspects of diversity. If you are interested in attending, please contact Hannah Clayborne, hclayborne@bellarmine.edu.

Date: Wednesday, December 7
Time: Noon - 1 p.m.
Location: Fireplace Room

Past Events: Spring 2011

Dialogue on Diversity Series: Presenter: Ms. Robin Murphey - Ghana: My Cultural Experience (For Faculty and Staff)
Through pictures, stories, and artifacts, Robin will share her immersion experience in a Cultural Study Tour to Ghana, West Africa in 2008 with the American College Personnel Association. She will address how this experience has deepened her interest in encouraging students, staff and faculty to participate in similar programs, the importance of interacting with individuals from different cultures, and how to incorporate knowledge of others into one’s daily practices.

4th Annual Unity Brunch sponsored by The Steward’s Staff
The Stewards Staff’s annual UNITY Brunch is a fundraiser and awards ceremony which is held on the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday to commemorate his peacemaking efforts. The Office of Multicultural Affairs has tickets for students, faculty and staff who are interested in participating in this community event.

MLK Day of Service
Each year Bellarmine honors Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy by asking the BU community to help their neighbors and community on the King holiday. Get involved by joining an existing project or planning a project for your RSO, department, friends, family or colleagues. As its Bellarmine’s 60th anniversary year our goal is to get at least 60 volunteers serving out in the community.

MLK March
Please join the Offices’ of Campus Ministry and Multicultural Affairs on Tuesday, January 18 for the annual MLK march and campus-wide celebration of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. The march will begin at 11:00a.m. in front of the Campus Ministry Office. After arriving at the Chapel, several members of the Bellarmine community will share their thoughts about the life and contributions of Rev. King. The program at the Chapel will begin at 11:15 a.m.

2011- MLK Essay Contest
The inaugural Rev. Martin Luther, King, Jr. Essay Contest is open to undergraduate and graduate students at Bellarmine University. Students who want to submit an essay and faculty or staff who are interested in serving on the selection committee should contact hclayborne@bellarmine.edu. The first place winner will receive $200.The second-place winner will receive $150 and the third-place winner will receive a $50. gift-certificate to the Campus Bookstore. Essays will be accepted until 5p.m. on January 31.

Black History Month: Facts for Features
Each year February is celebrated as Black (African-American) History Month to commemorate and celebrate the contributions to the US made by people of African descent. “Facts for Features” lists various statistics about African-American populations in the U.S.

Black History Month Guest Speaker: Tony Bonta
Tony Bonta is pursuing his Ph.D. in Historical Theology, with a specialization in American Catholic life and thought, at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His dissertation explores the efforts of past Church leaders, who as a result of being grounded in Catholic confidence, crossed inter-racial, inter-faith and civic boundaries to pursue the common good in civic and social issues by putting their faith into practice with charity and justice. Tony’s Black History Month presentation at Bellarmine will focus on three areas: 1) a brief discussion and summary of the history of the Catholic Church in the United States and racial justice; 2) an understanding of the shift in the twentieth-century and key theological teachings and formative issues that highlight the successes, limitations and efforts of these Catholic leaders; and 3) the lessons and challenges for us today, as individuals and communities, to understand and address the realities of bigotry, racism, and their implications for prejudice and discrimination.

Dialogue on Diversity Series: Through My Lens (For Faculty and Staff)
Administrators and faculty of color will share their personal and professional experiences at predominately white institutions.

Dinner at Queenies!
Join your fellow students in enjoying the delicious ‘soul food’ Queenies offers!! Queenies is a local treasure which offers a variety of soul cuisine including salmon croquettes, cornbread, peach/apple cobbler, and many more.

Play: “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom”
Join other BU students in viewing the performance “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” which Actors Theatre describes as a searing drama, in which a Blues legend and her band make music as they contend with cultural divides and thwarted ambitions. (Black history month event)

Documentary “Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin”
“Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin” is a biography about one of the most controversial figures in the Civil Rights movement. He was a Freedom Rider, advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and an organizer of the March on Washington. However Bayard was forced to play a background role in the civil rights movement because he was gay. This documentary sheds light on this charismatic leader and the progressive movements of the 20th century. (Event cosponsored by the Black Student Union (BSU) and GLASS and is a Black History Month Event)

Webinar – Faculty Recruiting Workshop: Recruiting a Racially Diverse, Culturally Competent Faculty (for Faculty and Staff)
Retaining a racially diverse faculty starts with strategic and comprehensive recruiting efforts. This webinar will cover topics including: selecting and training search committee chairs; improving the multicultural competence of search committee members; increasing the size of the pool of promising candidates through networking, mentoring, internship and fellowship programs; marketing and advertising considerations; deciding upon core competencies and abilities necessary for a position; developing helpful interview questions; evaluating candidate abilities with preferred competencies; contacting references; and choosing the final candidate.

“MY WORLD TALKS” with The Stewards Staff
The 'MY WORLD TALKS’ series seeks to initiate candid dialogue and healing amongst races. Come join fellow Bellarmine students, faculty, staff and Louisville community members as we discuss important topics related to race.

Faculty Jazz Band Performance
Come enjoy the smooth sounds of Bellarmine’s Faculty Jazz Band as they perform their favorites pieces! (Black history month event)

Fifth Annual Thomas Merton Black History Month Lecture - "Religion and Racism: Thomas Merton's Insights for the Twenty-First Century."
This year’s presenter will be Sister Jamie T. Phelps, O.P., Ph.D. Sister Phelps has been a member of the Adrian Dominican Sisters since 1959. Currently she is a Professor of Systematic Theology and Director of the Institute for Black Catholic Studies of Xavier University of Louisiana. Prior to this position she has been a member of the faculty of the Catholic Theological Union and Loyola University, both in Chicago, and a Distinguished Visiting Professor of Theology in the Religious Studies Department at the University of Dayton, Dayton Ohio.

Webinar - LGBTQ Students: Creating a Safe and Welcoming Campus (For Faculty and Staff)
According to recent reports, LGBTQ students on college campuses may find the campus environment to be less than welcoming. However, Academia can help address the emerging issues and concerns impacting LGBTQ people within institutions of higher education. Join this webinar to explore the current landscape of today's LGBTQ campus experience and learn about specific strategies campuses can adapt and implement to address the needs of their LGBTQ population. If you are interested in participating in this event please RSVP to Dr. Hannah Clayborne (hclayborne@bellarmine.edu).

Safe Zone Training
Safe Zone Training includes general information about LGBTQ issues, definition of terms, common misconceptions, what it means to be an ally and the coming out process. This is a great opportunity for Faculty and Staff to learn how they can support their LGBTQ students and colleagues.

Black History Month Concert
Come enjoy beautiful music performed by Bellarmine students and local artists as they perform works by famous African American composers in celebration of Black History Month!

Documentary “Uncommon Vision: The Life and Times of John Howard Griffin”
John Howard Griffin is best known as the white man who in 1959 disguised himself as a black man and then traveled anonymously through the heart of Dixie. From his experiences he wrote Black Like Me. This film focuses on Griffin's social activism and examines how a spiritual commitment led him from a segregated childhood in Fort Worth to fighting with the French Underground, sustained him during ten years of blindness incurred by war injuries, and inspired him during a prolific creative life as a writer/photographer.

Voice Recital
Baritone, Phillip Morgan, winner of the Bellarmine Chorale’s 2010 Black History Month Festival of Music’s Vocal Competition, will be the featured performer in this event which will showcase music by African-American, classical composers. Mr. Morgan will be accompanied by pianist, Austin Echols.

2nd Annual Vocal Competition
This unique and exciting event is co-sponsored, for the 2nd year, by the Bellarmine Chorale and KANM (the Kentucky Chapter of the National Association of Negro Musicians). This state-wide vocal competition features both Collegiate and High School Divisions and requires all contestants to offer a ‘Traditional Negro Spiritual’ or a classical composition by an African-American composer...in addition to the ‘usual’ Handel, Mozart, Puccini, Verdi, etc. that they would offer in most vocal events!

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Talent Hunt
The Bellarmine Chorale is once again co-sponsoring the Annual Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Talent Hunt! Originally started in 1946, this yearly contest exposes young people to the arts and gives them a platform to display their talents. Winners receive monetary prizes and the winner of the top prize represents Louisville in the Omega’s national competition!

International Women’s Day Celebration
International Women's Day is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. This year Bellarmine will celebrate this day a bit early due to the timing of spring break. The day will be celebrated with CHOCOLATES provided by the International Club to women at BU. (This event is co-sponsored by OMA and the International Student Club, and it is a Women’s History Month Event)

Dialogue on Diversity Series: Personal Reflections on Women and Islam (For Faculty and Staff)
Ms. Djenita Pasic, Attorney and International Business Consultant, will share her thoughts about Women and Islam during this session.

Women’s History Month Guest Speaker: Dawne Gee
Local newscaster Dawne Gee will be sharing her path in life… her challenges, successes, inspirations and aspirations.

Take Back The Night
Take Back The Night (TBTN) is an annual rally and march against rape and other forms of sexual violence. Join others from the Bellarmine community and from WINC (Women in College) in taking part in this important march!

An open dress rehearsal will take place on Thursday, March 17th; it will be free but audience members are encouraged to bring canned goods as a donation which will go to the Center for Women and Families.

Women in Leadership Conference
The Women in Leadership Conference is a yearly networking event for undergraduate women at Bellarmine. Each March, up to 25 female students are selected to participate in the conference, which fosters personal and professional growth with each young woman in attendance through 5 major themes: Mentoring, Professional Development, Inspiration, Leadership Development, and Exchange of Ideas.

Women’s History Month Musical Event
Come enjoy beautiful music performed by Eastern Kentucky University Vocal Department faculty as they perform works by famous women composers in celebration of Women's History Month.

Iran: Up Close and Personal
Terry Taylor, Executive Director of Louisville’s Interfaith Paths to Peace, will discuss his trip to Iran in November of 2010 as part of a 10-person Citizen Diplomacy team sponsored by the national Fellowship of Reconciliation. (Cosponsored by the Merton Center, Campus Ministry, IPO, and Theology Dept.)

Documentary “Cover Girl Culture”
This documentary by filmmaker Nicole Clark explores how the worlds of fashion, modeling, advertising and celebrity impact our teens and young women. Who sets today's standards for beauty and how are these standards affecting individuals and society? Who is responsible? Are there ways this can be changed? If so, who can/will change it? (Event cosponsored by the Bellarmine Film Association and is a Women’s History Month Event)

Dialogue on Diversity Series: Presenter: Ms. Melanie Evans, "Power-Based Personal Violence" (For Faculty and Staff)
One in three women and one in six men will experience power-based personal violence in their lifetime. One in four college women will experience some degree of sexual assault during their collegiate career. This session will increase knowledge about power-based personal violence policy, procedure and resources for students at Bellarmine and will include discussion on responding to victims of violence.

OMA - Appreciation Day
The title says it all. This event will include giveaways, refreshments, treats and music.