Who and What: Wake Forest will host an American Indian Culture Celebration as part of the University’s yearlong celebration, Faces of Courage. The University will honor the first American Indian graduate, Dr. James G. Jones (’55, MD ’59), as well as two other distinguished American Indian alumni, Lonnie Revels (’58), and Lucretia Hicks (’10). An inter-tribal celebration will feature drumming, dancing, food and presentations by Lumbee and Cherokee leaders.
When and Where: Wednesday, Nov. 28. Media are invited the cover the following events:
1 p.m. – American Indian Alumni Awards Luncheon, Graylyn International Conference Center, 1900 Reynolda Rd. (media only, not open to the public)
6 to 8 p.m. – Celebration of American Indian Culture, Wake Forest University, The Barn (open to the public)
Why: Jones and Revels broke cultural barriers in the 1950s as the first American Indian graduates from Wake Forest and helped usher in a culture of inclusion with their attendance at the University. Jones would go on to become the first American Indian student to attend the Wake Forest School of Medicine. Hicks helped bring attention to Wake Forest’s growing American Indian student population with the founding of the Native American Student Association in 2008. Wake Forest is honoring these past leaders and celebrating American Indian culture.
The event is part of “Faces of Courage: Celebrating 50 years of Integration,” a yearlong series of events designed to encourage discussion, bring people together and honor those involved in making Wake Forest a more inclusive place.
Contact the news office to arrange interviews with Jones, Hicks or organizers of the celebration.
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About Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University combines the best traditions of a small liberal arts college with the resources of a large research university. Founded in 1834, the school is located in Winston-Salem, N.C. The University’s graduate school of arts and sciences, divinity school, and nationally ranked schools of law, medicine and business enrich our intellectual environment. Learn more about Wake Forest University at www.wfu.edu.
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