Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014, is a day that will be etched in the history of Oswego State’s programs for Black History Month. On this day, the Black Student Union (BSU) presented to us Maarifa-Knowledge, an independently student-organized symposium/conference. Nineteen students gave presentations on a wide range of topics and disciplines. One of the highlights of the event was the keynote speech by a graduating senior, Wilbert St. Hilaire, who passionately encouraged his peers to take advantage of the opportunities available to them on this campus, especially engaging in research as a way of nurturing individual growth. This event should make us all proud for a number of reasons.

BSU has contested and occupied its intellectual space by providing scholarships among many other activities. The students who presented showcased their prowess in conducting research, the courage to disseminate it to their peers and the ability to defend their ideas when those ideas were challenged. They clearly profiled the image of a successful academic scholar. There is no doubt that these students have enhanced their career path as a result.

We would like to thank and congratulate the BSU e-board for tirelessly working to make this event possible. Special thanks to Ashley Freeze and Grace Maxon for ensuring the smooth running of the days’ activities and to Justin Brantley, President of BSU, for his leadership. It is our hope that Maarifa will grow to become an annual event and a market place for intellectual exchange of ideas and professional growth!

-Dr. Faith Maina,

Professor

Department of Curriculum

and Instruction

206 Hewitt Union

faith.maina@oswego.edu

-Dr. Patricia Clark

Chair, Department of English and

Creative Writing

Director, African and

African-American Studies

patricia.clark@oswego.edu