Black History Month
On behalf of the Office of Education and Training, we acknowledge and celebrate Black History Month this 2026. We invite you to take a moment to reflect on the numerous contributions Black Americans have made to this country. As we move forward as a nation, it is our hope that we will continue to acknowledge and uplift our ancestors while preserving their legacies with dignity and honor.
The Father of Black History Month, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, was born in 1875 near New Canton, VA. He was the son of former slaves. In 1907, he obtained his BA degree from the University of Chicago. In 1912, he received his PhD from Harvard University.
In 1915, he and friends established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. A year later, the Journal of Negro History, began quarterly publication. In 1926, Woodson proposed and launched the annual February observance of “Negro History Week,” which became “Black History Month” in 1976. It is said that he chose February for the observance because February 12th was Abraham Lincoln’s birthday and February 14th was the accepted birthday of Frederick Douglass.
The Office of Education and Training is committed to advancing knowledge, skills, and professional development across our institution through high-quality, inclusive, and accessible learning experiences. Our mission is to design, deliver, and support educational programs that foster lifelong learning, empower individuals at all levels, and align with organizational goals. We aim to cultivate an environment where continuous improvement, academic excellence, and workforce readiness are supported through innovative engagement practices, evidence-based training, and strategic partnerships.
Through collaboration with departments, leadership, and community stakeholders, the Office of Education and Training provides targeted development opportunities that enhance both personal and institutional capacity. Whether through workshops, certificate programs, virtual platforms, or educational initiatives, we work to ensure that every individual, students, staff members, or faculty, have the tools and support needed to thrive. Our approach emphasizes equity, adaptability, and impact, positioning education and training as central drivers of organizational excellence and mission fulfillment.
The Office of Education and Training, in partnership with Multicultural Affairs for Students and the Seita Scholars Program, offers workshops on the following topics:
- Exploring Perspectives and Roles in Higher Education
- Addressing Subtle Behaviors that Impact Learning and Work
- Safe On Campus
- Understanding Unconscious Influences on Decision-Making
- Developing Reflective and Responsive Teaching & Leadership Practices
- Humanizing Differences in an Anti-DEI Climate
- Cognitive Empathy
- How to Become a Trauma Informed Ally
The Office of Education and Training also provides the following:
- Events and programs to promote awareness about diversity and inclusion.
- Networking and outreach opportunities for faculty, staff, and students.
- Educational Training and Workshops
- Interactive spaces to discuss topics and issues relevant to institutions of higher education
