Lake Erie College Hosts Black History Month Events| Open to the Public

Lake Erie College is proud to celebrate Black History Month with two exciting events that are free and open to the public. These events are designed to honor the contributions and impact of Black individuals in culture, history, and society.

A Closer Look at the Work of Melvin Van Peebles with Dr. David Moody On February 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM, join Dr. David Moody in Dickinson Auditorium, Austin Hall, for an insightful presentation on the work of renowned filmmaker and playwright Melvin Van Peebles, perhaps best known for the film Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song. Dr. Moody will delve into Van Peebles' trailblazing career and his contributions to the film industry and Black culture. This event is a unique opportunity to explore the life and legacy of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

Dr. David Moody Dr. David Moody, Associate Professor of Communication at Lake Erie College, brings his extensive expertise in popular culture to the discussion of Melvin Van Peebles' films. A past board chair of the Popular Culture Association, Dr. Moody also heads the Black Popular Culture area division at the PCA. His scholarly work includes publications such as The Complexity and Progression of Black Representation in Film and Television (2016) and Political Melodies in the Pews?: The Voice of the Black Christian Rapper in the Twenty-first Century Church (2012). He is currently editing a forthcoming volume, New Perspectives on Black Popular Culture. Outside academia, Dr. Moody is active in local theatre and has performed in productions at the Blank Canvas Theatre, Cleveland Play House, and several film roles.

Black Alumni Panel with LEC Graduates On February 25, 2025, at 6:30 PM, the Lincoln Learning Commons will host a Black Alumni Panel featuring a distinguished group of Lake Erie College alumni. Dr. David Moody will moderate a discussion focusing on the alumni’s experiences at LEC, their academic and career goals, current professional roles, and the organizations they were involved in during their time at the College. Panelists include former LEC students Ezekiel Ebenezer, Desmon Turner, Deja Wilson, and Shaun Wright.

This panel provides an opportunity for students and attendees to connect with successful Black alumni and gain insights and inspiration from their journeys.

Both events are free and open to the public. Lake Erie College encourages everyone to join in these enriching celebrations of Black history, culture, and the future we build together.