On February 20, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Division of Student Affairs hosted the third annual Black History Month Program in collaboration with the Black Student Awareness Committee and campus partners. Held in the Hill Student Center Ballrooms from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., the program was centered around the theme "African Americans and the Arts."
The event showcased the contributions of black artists across various disciplines, including film and television, performing arts, music, and visual arts. All artists highlighted had connections to UAB or the city of Birmingham.
Attendees were treated to performances by the UAB Gospel Choir, Wes Wright (artist hospitality coordinator for the Alys Stephens Center), and acclaimed poets laureates Salaam Green and Ashley Jones.
A significant highlight of the program was the presentation of the inaugural Black Excellence Award, which was bestowed posthumously to the late Kevin Turner, the former director of the UAB Gospel Choir. Turner, celebrated as the "Modern Day Godfather of College Gospel Choirs," left an indelible mark on UAB and its surrounding communities through his extensive contributions. From his directorship of the UAB Gospel Choir for over two decades to his scholarly endeavors in American Gospel Music and Music Business courses, Turner's legacy reverberates through generations. His influence extended to the curriculum of cultural diversity programs in Birmingham City Schools and the Music Educators National Conference.
Beyond his academic and musical achievements, Turner was also recognized for his independent music releases as a performer and producer. Even after retiring from UAB in 2017, he continued to share his musical talents as a guest minister in local churches until his passing in 2021.
In addition to honoring Turner's legacy, the program featured a visual arts component during the reception, showcasing artworks provided by the Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts (AEIVA), including pieces by renowned artist Gordon Parks.
The event was further enriched by powerful recitations from Salaam Green, Birmingham's first poet laureate, and Ashley Jones, Alabama's first African American poet laureate. Their poignant poems added depth and resonance to the celebration.
The program, which was held before a near-capacity crowd, helped to foster a sense of appreciation for the rich artistic contributions of African Americans.