Black entrepreneur, Soul Food Feast highlight Black History Month events at Thiel College

Posted February 07, 2023 Print

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- The Organization of Black Collegiates is sponsoring and supporting programs and events throughout the month of February at Thiel College to celebrate Black History Month.

Aimed at raising awareness of Black culture on campus and in the community, these programs began with Black History Bingo, which was held on Feb. 3 in the Lutheran Heritage Room, and gave students the opportunity to learn about prominent figures in the movement toward equity and justice. A food trailer from Haitian Sensation, a local restaurant that supports aid to Haiti, visited campus and served traditional dishes to Thiel students and employees. Haitian Sensation is a coffee shop and Caribbean restaurant in Sharon. A portion of its profits are used to improve the lives of those in Haiti.

Grace Eleyae, co-founder and CEO of Grace Eleyae Inc. and creator of the original Slap (satin-lined cap) will visit Thiel during common hour at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 16 in Stamm Lecture Hall of the James Pedas Communication Center, to share her inspirational story of how she was able to create a multi-million-dollar business, which led to Forbes magazine naming her a Top Black Businesswoman to Know.

The month-long schedule of events will culminate with the OBC annual tradition of the Soul Food Feast, which will be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25 in the Lutheran Heritage Room of the Howard Miller Student Center. Organized by the Organization of Black Collegiates this event brings together students, faculty and staff members to sample a number of traditional dishes while also taking part in an educational dialogue.

About the Organization of Black Collegians

The OBC was founded in December 1968 with the mission to raise cultural awareness throughout campus. This organization is inclusive and is not specifically for African-American students. Anyone desiring to support diversity and learn about different cultures is welcome.

The OBC holds events throughout the year. During Homecoming, they participate in the annual parade and then hold a cookout for returning alumni and any students who want to join. During the last week in February, they host events—such as debates, educational speakers, and documentaries—open to all of Thiel's campus. They hold a fashion show as a fundraiser for their philanthropic cause, Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc., and members also volunteer at St. Paul’s Continuing Care Community on a regular basis.