Renowned illustrator, distinguished Fulbright Scholar, acclaimed author and accomplished STEM professionals headline this year’s event
POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. — JAN. 30, 2025 — Dutchess Community College is proud to announce an engaging series of events to celebrate Black History Month. This year’s program features dynamic presentations by scholars, writers and artists along with interactive book signings and a STEM panel networking opportunity. All events are free and open to the public.
On Feb. 6 at 12:30 p.m., a talk and book signing with esteemed art-ivist, concept artist, children’s book author and film illustrator Nikkolas Smith will take place in the James & Betty Hall Theatre. Smith is the illustrator of New York Times bestsellers including “The 1619 Project: Born on the Water,” “I Am Ruby Bridges,” “Black Panther Forever: The Courage to Dream” and “That Flag.” His other notable work includes film illustration for “Judas and the Black Messiah” and “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” as well as movie poster designs for “Soul” and “Southside with You.”
Dr. Antumi Toasijé, a Fulbright Scholar, historian, author and visual artist, will deliver a presentation on Feb. 6 at 12:30 p.m. in the Teaching Learning Center (TLC), 232 Hudson Hall, focusing on the African presence in Europe and the ongoing struggle against racial and ethnic discrimination. A faculty member at New York University Madrid and IE University, Dr. Toasijé teaches global history with a focus on non-Eurocentric perspectives. His research explores the African diaspora in the Iberian Peninsula, African resistance to colonialism, and initiatives supporting Afro-descendant communities in Europe, Africa and Latin America.
On Feb. 11 at 12:30 p.m. in Bowne Hall 122, a STEM Panel and Networking Event will feature high-achieving STEM professionals sharing academic and career experiences in fields such as engineering, health and science, aviation, technology and cybersecurity. Representatives from DCC, Labella Associates, Orange and Rockland Utilities, and Nuvance Health are scheduled to speak, with opportunities for attendees to meet panelists during the networking portion.
A talk and book signing with author Aaliyah Bilal, co-sponsored by DCC’s Black History Committee and Women’s Activities Committee, will be held on March 4 at 12:30 p.m. in the James & Betty Hall Theatre. Bilal is the author of “Temple Folk,” her first story collection and a 2023 National Book Award finalist, which explores the multifaceted identity of Black Muslims in America.
DCC’s Black History Month events were curated and organized by the Black History Committee under the leadership of Assistant Professor of English Willie Morris (chair) and Assistant Professor of History Shalon Hallager. All events are free and open to the public thanks in part to the support of the DCC Foundation, Office of Student Activities, and Office of Instruction & Learning.
For more information, contact Willie Morris at willie.morris@sunydutchess.edu. If you require sign language interpreting services or special accommodations, please make your request at least two weeks before the event by reaching out to Linda Bertolozzi at (845) 431-8058 or bertoloz@sunydutchess.edu.
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Caption: From left are STEM panel participant Nicholas Vamvas (LaBella Associates), Nikkolas Smith, Aaliyah Bilal and Dr. Antumi Toasijé.
Founded in 1957, Dutchess Community College is a two-year community college that has earned a reputation for providing an outstanding education and offers one of the lowest tuition rates in New York state. The College currently has four locations including its main campus in Poughkeepsie, DCC @ Fishkill, DCC @ HVR Airport, and DCC @ the Family Partnership Center. For more information visit www.sunydutchess.edu.