KEVIN POWELL OPENS WILLIAM PATERSON UNIVERSITY AFRICAN HERITAGE MONTH OBSERVANCE

Kevin Powell, a poet, political activist and hip-hop historian, will present a lecture at William Paterson University as part of the institution’s observance of African Heritage Month. Other events include a poetry slam featuring the actor MUMS, who plays "Poet" on the HBO series OZ, and several lectures and musical performances.

February 4
The opening ceremony of African Heritage Month, will be held on Tuesday, February 4 in the Machuga Student Center Ballroom from noon to 2 p.m. This year’s theme is "Sankofa: Looking Back and Moving Forward." Kevin Powell, poet, journalist, political activist and author, will be the guest speaker. Powell began his career as a cast member in the first season of MTV’s The Real World, and later was a writer and editor for Vibe magazine. The event also includes a performance by the William Paterson University Gospel Choir.

February 6
A Club Fair, featuring William Paterson student clubs and organizations, will be held from noon to 2:00 p.m. in the Machuga Student Center Ballroom. A DJ will provide entertainment.

February 11
A celebratory lunch will be held in honor of Bob Marley, the Jamaican musician, from noon to 2:00 p.m. in the Machuga Student Center Ballroom. A selection of Caribbean cuisine will be available for a small fee.

February 19
The Keith Marks Jazz Group will perform as members of Essence, the campus English Club, present the poetry of Langston Hughes in the Starbucks Café in the Machuga Student Center from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.

February 23
The Bishop Frank J. Rodimer Catholic Campus Ministry will hold an African Heritage Month Mass as part of its Universality Series at 7:30 p.m. in the Jesus Christ Prince of Peace Chapel.

February 24
A poetry slam featuring the actor MUMS, who plays "Poet" on the HBO hit show OZ, a part written for him by the creator of the series, will be held in the Machuga Student Center Ballroom at 7:00 p.m. MUMS has performed on campuses in the U.S. and Europe, and was featured in Spike Lee’s film Bamboozled last year.

February 26
A lecture on AIDS will be held in the Towers Pavilion on February 26 at 6:00 p.m.

February 27
The month’s activities will be brought to a close with an Umoja (Closing) Ceremony in the Machuga Student Center Ballroom, from noon to 2:00 p.m. The Naturally Seven Acappella Group will perform. Naturally Seven’s faith-infused music blends gospel, jazz, rhythm and blues. Refreshments will be served.
For additional information and a complete schedule of events, please call Dorian Douglas in the University’s Office of Campus Activities at 973-720-2519.

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1/14/03
For Further Information, contact:

Mary Beth Zeman, Director, Public Relations 973-720-2966