Nearly 200 people gathered on Feb. 24 for Blackhawk Technical College’s Soul Food Luncheon, a tradition that started over 40 years ago to raise money for the Blackhawk Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship Fund.
The event was organized by Blackhawk's Multi-Cultural Alliance and Minority Excellence Organization student groups, the Student Government Association, the Culinary Arts Department, and the Blackhawk Technical College Foundation. The Soul Food Luncheon serves as a vital component of Black History Month festivities at Blackhawk, contributing to scholarships and encouraging a sense of community.
Criminal Justice Instructor Will Walsh and Academic Advisor Linda Fair served as co-emcees of the event. Fair said, “This event is a reflection of the tremendous power we have when we come together to honor, celebrate and uplift one another. We could not do this without the incredible support of those in this room as well as our amazing Culinary Arts students.”
Executive Director of Student Services Dr. Katie Lange welcomed attendees, calling special attention to representatives from the Janesville and Beloit school districts and The Lincoln Academy as well as Assembly Rep. Ann Roe (D-Janesville).
As attendees feasted on baked/fried chicken, ham, fried catfish, BBQ ribs, okra, candied yams, collard greens, coleslaw, black-eyed peas, macaroni and cheese, cornbread and rolls, a series of speakers shared thanks, appreciation and stories.
Interim Executive Director of Advancement and Foundation Cassie Hartje thanked the event sponsors: Diversity Action Team of Rock County, Seneca and Premier Bank.
About the Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship
The Blackhawk Technical College Foundation established the Diversity Scholarship to foster an environment that appreciates and values the varied backgrounds, experiences and perspectives of the student body. The scholarship supports the recruitment, retention and graduation of students who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing diversity, inclusion, equity and accessibility initiatives at the College. The scholarship is partially funded by proceeds from the annual Soul Food Luncheon held each February. Scholarship amounts range from $250 to $1,000 and are awarded to multiple students each semester.
Eligible students must be enrolled (or planning to enroll) in any program at Blackhawk, either part-time (minimum six credits) or full-time and in good academic standing. This scholarship is available to new or continuing students who can demonstrate how their unique experiences, perspectives or contributions support a diverse and inclusive campus community.