For some of us, it takes a moment or two for the light bulb to appear above our heads. By that, I specifically mean it’s taken me more time than it probably should have to realize I need to attend an Ole Miss Black Alumni Reunion.
But, if it’s the good Lord’s will, I plan to make the one scheduled March 5-8. Here’s six reasons why I’m planning to attend (and maybe you should as well):
- It’s Affordable: Registration for non-active alumni association members is $140, which includes a one-year membership to the Ole Miss Alumni Association. Since my wife and I are active members, ours is $100.
- Fantasia’s Concert: The American Idol who went on to become a best-selling recording artist and acclaimed Broadway star in the musical “The Color Purple” will kick off the weekend in style March 15 with a 7 p.m. performance in the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Should be a great show!
- Gospel Choir Unplugged: The Grammy-nominated University of Mississippi Gospel Choir (known as the Black Student Union Gospel Choir when I was in school) performs at 12:15 p.m. March 15 outside the Ole Miss Student Union in a student-sponsored series called Union Unplugged. I missed the 40th anniversary concert last November (plus this one’s free!).
- Center for Inclusion and Cross Cultural Engagement Reception: 2:30 p.m. March 16 at Stewart Hall. Looking forward to learning about ways to stay involved in ongoing efforts to sustain equity and inclusion across campus.
- Greek Show: I’m not a Greek, but I have friends who are and look forward to seeing their frats and sorors turn up. Show is 7 p.m. March 16 in the Ford Center.
- Black Alumni Awards Banquet: Starts at 7 p.m. in the Gertrude C. Ford Ballroom at the Inn at Ole Miss. Celebrating our history and honoring our heroes. Always worthwhile. Plus it’s a chance to see classmates from the ’70s and ’80s again.
Well, there’s plenty of other stuff scheduled, including parties, dances, tours, panel discussions and a devotional service. Want more information? Visit http://rebelnetwork.olemissalumni.com/s/1605/alumni/index.aspx?sid=1605&gid=2&pgid=1266&cid=2200&ecid=2200&ciid=2472&crid=0 or contact Julian Gilner or Sunny Eicholtz at 662-915-7375.