Roxbury Community College (RCC) made a big announcement at the Golden Jubilee Gala held at the Omni Seaport Boston Hotel on February 24. The RCC Foundation (RCCF) exceeded its $6M goal for fundraising during its 50th anniversary year by raising $6.3M! Proceeds raised will fund student scholarships, student support programs, faculty academic endeavors, and innovation on campus.
“When we sat down and started planning this anniversary celebration almost two years ago, I never could have imagined just how impactful this 50th anniversary year would be for the College,” said Roxbury Community College Interim President Jackie Jenkins-Scott. “We aimed to strengthen relationships in the community and among our alumni, solidify RCC’s role as an important convener in the city, raise critical funds for our students, and tell our own story. This College has changed the lives of so many young people and will change the lives of countless thousands more.”
The RCCF announced at the gala it is honoring the Interim President’s incredible leadership and contributions to the College by establishing the Jackie Jenkins-Scott Scholarship Fund that will provide gap funding for students in need so they can focus on their course of study and be successful.
At the gala, author and educator Anita Hill was presented with the inaugural Roxbury Community College Drum Major for Justice Award. “I am honored to be recognized with this award and to celebrate RCC’s 50th anniversary,” said Hill. “We need students to live and learn where they want to be and what you see here tonight is that when you do that, they give back.” The award pays homage to the countless scholars, abolitionists, activists, organizers, and advocates who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to building a more just world, Hill is a Professor of Law, Public Policy, and Women’s Studies at Brandeis University and is the Chair of the Hollywood entertainment industry’s Commission to Eliminate Sexual Harassment and Advance Equality in the Workplace.
Massachusetts Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley spoke at the Gala, paying tribute to Anita Hill as one of the first people she saw speak truth to power and to Roxbury Community College for its commitment to social justice. “I have no doubt we will meet the moment. Each of us has a responsibility as stewards of the movement and as caretakers that aspire to greater heights for future generations,” she said.
Another highlight of the evening was the unveiling of an art installation created by local artists Napoleon Jones-Henderson and Stephen Hamilton. “Vibratory Spirits and HooDoo Rhythms | The Seer” is a representation of Jones-Henderson and Hamilton’s perspective of the Roxbury community and its rich history. “RCC stabilizes Roxbury as a community. It is an anchor from the point of view that education, knowledge, consistency, and commitment is important,” said Napoleon Jones-Henderson. “The college is a manifestation of that, and we tried to reflect these traits in this installation. The piece represents the vast number of people RCC has touched over its 50-year history and those it will in the years to come.” The 51-inch-tall x 55-inch-wide, 40-pound installation created using copper sheets, woven and textile elements, and sculptural work will have a permanent home on RCC’s campus.
New York City news anchor and RCC alum Tashanea Whitlow served as the event’s emcee. There was also a hip hop performance by Floor Lords, and an after party hosted by DJ Real P.
Watch the videos shown during the Golden Jubilee Gala
Learn more about the 50th Anniversary Celebration
The Bay State Banner — RCC celebrates its 50th anniversary
MassNonprofit News — RCC raised $6.3M during 50th anniversary year
The Boston Herald — RCC celebrates 50th anniversary, legacy of community activism
