Historical tribute to first person of color to graduate from BSC

On Wednesday, Nov. 7, the Moakley Center Auditorium was used as part of a documentary setting that is paying historical tribute to Sarah Lewis, who was the first person of color to graduate from Bridgewater State College in 1869. The video, unofficially titled "A Celebration of Sarah Lewis," was organized by Mr. Arthur Slotnick, the director of the Telecommunications Video System studio and was sponsored by the Hall of Black Achievement, the Center for Multicultural Affairs and the Office of Institutional Diversity. Those who were engaged in the actual filming included the portrayal of Sarah Lewis by Maria Costa, who may be easily recognized from her job as a maintainer on campus. Ms. Costa splendidly brought this historical figure to life as she was clad in period attire that was supplied by Christine Galais of "The Ladies World." Nearly 50 volunteers-students, faculty, and Burnell students provided by Burnell principal Gloria Stanton-danced with "Sarah Lewis" with the vibrant sounds of BSC's African drumming ensemble Khakatay stirring in the background.

The general staff who were involved to aid in the filmmaking were Matt DeGrechie, the Video Support Specialist and Mr. Slotnick's student staff who served as production assistants. The student workers who were present during the filming included Christina Gomes, Kayo Ichimura, Jamiee Gardner, Kelly Tanguay, Alicia Holland, Anthony Franco, Alysse Gerardi, and Cassandra Dominique.

As part of student employment, Mr. Slotnick encouragingly mentors his student workers in a wide range of skills that are beneficial to them in the long run. Christina Gomes successfully carried out her role as the lead assistant for this event, which allowed her to continue developing her leadership and communications skills. The student workers who were there, as well as those who couldn't make it, all contributed to the event in many ways. This included marketing the event to the campus and recruiting volunteer students to participate. Additional support was also supplied by the Phi Sigma Sigma sorority.

In attendance of the event were Dr. and Mrs. Robert Daniel who was the first African-American faculty member; professor and Mrs. Henry Santos who was a long time African-American faculty member, Mr. Paul Gaines who was the first African-American administrator and Carol Bliss Furr who was the first African-American member of the Board of Trustees and later became its Chairperson.