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The African American Read-In, a nation-wide event, will be held on Monday, Feb. 4, from 2-6 p.m. in the Prince Student Union. This year’s theme book is Carver: A Life in Poems by Marilyn Nelson. A Newberry Honor Book and recipient of the Coretta Scott King Award, the book is filled with a series of lyrical poems and historical photos, offering a glimpse into George Washington Carver’s inspiring life. Many other books will be showcased, including several by African American authors. The goal is to have more than one million books read across the United States. Readers will also visit local classrooms. If you are interested in having a reader in your class, please contact Jim Singletary at (740) 392-6868, ext. 4606.

MVNU’s Jim Singletary, Director of Multicultural Affairs, and a panel of MVNU students from diverse backgrounds, will present an open dialogue called, “Celebrating 200 Years of History” on Wednesday, Feb. 6, at noon for the Brown Bag Chat at the Mount Vernon Public Library. They will share about their personal family backgrounds, the histories of the cities and countries from which they come, and the importance of remembering the path that was trod before us.

A film series on “George Washington Carver: Man of Science, Servant of God,” will be offered in two parts on four different days. Part I is offered on Tuesday, Feb. 12, at 7 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 13, at 11:30 a.m., and Part II is offered on Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 7 p.m. and Wednesday, Feb. 20, at 11:30 a.m. Get to know the man who helped shape 20th-century America through his profound spiritual conviction, passion for exploration and a deep wonder for the world around him. All showings will take place in The Dwelling in the lower level of Central Complex.

MVNU’s Black History Month closes out with SoulFest (POSTPONED UNTIL A FUTURE DATE) on Thursday, Feb. 21, at 6 p.m. in the Prince Student Union. Learn about the traditions of the African diaspora of Nigerians, Kenyans and African Americans. This free event will feature food, music, games, exhibits, fun and fellowship from these cultures.

MVNU is pleased to provide a variety of events throughout February for all ages where participants can be enriched in their understanding and appreciation of African American heritage. For more information on these events or about MVNU, please contact (740) 392-6868, ext. 4341.

Mount Vernon Nazarene University is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students and working adults. U.S. News & World Report ranks MVNU in the top 50 Best in the Midwest (Bachelor’s-Comprehensive) institutions for the fourth year in a row. With a 400-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, and eight additional satellite Adult and Graduate Studies campuses throughout the state, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education to more than 2,670 students from 27 states and six countries/U.S. territories.