Harambee 2023

MTSO will honor graduates of the African Diaspora at its annual Harambee celebration May 2. The evening begins with dinner in Dunn Dining Hall at 7 p.m. and continues with a program in the Alford Centrum at 8 p.m.

This year’s theme, “Roots, Wings and The Griot’s Tale: Stories of Resilience and Triumph,” blends the connection between students’ African and African American heritage with the rich tradition of storytelling in African cultures. Drawing inspiration from the griot, a West African storyteller and historian, the ceremony will emphasize the power of oral tradition and resilience.

Graduates are encouraged to share their personal journeys and future aspirations via video reflections which will be played during dinner. We will also provide space for the honoring of the stories of their ancestors and role models who paved the path for them. In this way, the ceremony will celebrate the achievements of the graduates as part of a larger community, recognizing the importance of their roots and the potential of their wings.

This year’s Harambee speaker is Dr. Kyle Brooks, MTSO assistant professor of homiletics, worship, and Black church and African diasporic studies.

Attend in person or virtually

Those who wish to attend via Zoom may register at this link.

RSVP for dinner

All are welcome at Harambee. We ask that everyone who plans to be part of the 7 p.m. dinner to register below. This will help us with meal planning. Thank you.