"Black Hands in the Biscuits, Not in the Classrooms: Unveiling Hope in a Struggle for Brown's Promise" was the topic of Dr. Sherick Hughes keynote address to more than 100 students, faculty, and community members at the Erickson Alumni Center as the College kicked off its two days of Brown v. BOE activities in March prior to Spring Break. Dr. Hughes discussed his own experiences growing up in eastern North Carolina and his doctoral research and upcoming book by the same title. He emphasized that "liberation" for both blacks and whites is intertwined.

Dr. Hughes' presentation was followed by small group discussions as attendees explored their reactions to his experiences and research and their roles in insuring equitable education for future K-12 students.

The following day, Dr. Hughes was the moderator for "Personal Testimonials of Individuals Who Experienced School Segregation and Integration." Panelists included Mr. Chuck Blue, associate director of WVU's Career Personnel Administration, Ms. Anna McCright, retired school principal from Marion County, Ms. Charlotte Meade, retired school teacher from Marion County, Dr. Van O. Dempsey, associate professor and director of the Benedum Collaborative, and Dr. Elizabeth Dooley, asociate professor and chair of the Department of Educational Theory & Practice. Each panelist shared their experience and perspective as students during the Brown v. BOE era.

Over lunch, participants had the opportunity to discuss the panel's presentation and ask questions.