
The 鶹AV Blog
“I Didn’t Want to Leave:” The Impact of a Semester Abroad
Through the University’s study abroad program in Prato, Isaura Franco ’26 discovered new confidence, community, and perspectives.
The 鶹AV Blog
Samara Clark ’19, a criminal justice major and diversity peer educator, worked closely with the Myatt Center for Diversity and Inclusion to plan events and discussions as part of the University’s celebration of Black History Month.
March 4, 2019
For Samara Clark ’19, Black History Month is about strength and prosperity. The University’s month-long celebration is important, she said, in helping society recognize that Black history should be commemorated throughout the year.
"Every month can be Black History Month," she said. "It is important because Black history is not typically taught at a young age and one must seek information about it. Many things we do every day are thanks to the inventions of people of color, who are not always appreciated for their beautiful minds."
"Many things we do every day are thanks to the inventions of people of color, who are not always appreciated for their beautiful minds."Samara Clark ’19
Clark serves as a diversity peer educator with the Myatt Center for Diversity and Inclusion. She works with staff members at Bethel Hall to create programming that fosters diversity and inclusion, and she helps ensure the safety and comfort of students of all backgrounds.
"As a DPE, I become a ‘walking safe space’ for students who have concerns on campus regarding just about anything," Clark said.
Clark also works closely with Juan Hernandez, the director of the Myatt Center, which has hosted Black History Month events throughout February, including parties, movie showings, speakers, and discussions.
"As a DPE, I become a ‘walking safe space’ for students who have concerns on campus regarding just about anything."Samara Clark ’19
Beyond her work with the Myatt Center, she especially enjoys her participation with the , the Hip-Hop dance team at the University. "I appreciate the bonds within the members of the team and the love and support we always get from the campus community," said Clark, the group’s president.
"My roles at the University are very important to me," continued Clark. "Hopefully, the events and programs that take place will help everyone better understand that Black History is American history."
The 鶹AV Blog
Through the University’s study abroad program in Prato, Isaura Franco ’26 discovered new confidence, community, and perspectives.
The 鶹AV Blog
Olena Lennon, Ph.D., an internationally recognized scholar on Ukrainian politics, said it is vitally important for American educators to be in the rooms where policy is discussed because they are teaching the next generation of global national security leaders.
The 鶹AV Blog
Through perseverance, self-reflection, and support from others, Michael Mannino ’27 learned that the path to the right career isn’t always straight and that changing direction can lead to unexpected growth.