Nearly 200 people gathered Tuesday for Blackhawk Technical College’s Soul Food Luncheon, a tradition that started over 40 years ago to raise money for the Blackhawk Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship Fund.
The event was organized by Blackhawk's Multi-Cultural Alliance, the Student Government Association, the Culinary Arts Department, and the Blackhawk Technical College Foundation. The Soul Food Luncheon serves as a vital component of the college's Black History Month festivities, contributing to scholarships and promoting a sense of community.
This year’s event featured musical performances by Patten Pending, a local band of Beloit Memorial High School graduates. Linda Fair, a Blackhawk advisor, emceed the event, which also recognized Yadira Barrales-Flores, Tristen Alexander and Marcus Evans, the three recipients of the Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship.
Evans, a student in the Hospitality Management program, also spoke at the event. Recalling growing up in a diverse environment in Chicago, Evans said he learned to accept and love people for who they are and treat them respectfully and equally.
“Overcoming many challenges growing up in a tough city has taught me to cherish life and cherish friendships no matter what color they are or what background they come from,” Evans said.
The menu included baked/fried chicken, ham, fried catfish, BBQ ribs, okra, candied yams, collard greens, cole slaw, black-eyed peas, macaroni and cheese, cornbread and rolls.
About the Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship
The Blackhawk Technical College Foundation established the Diversity Scholarship to foster an environment that appreciates and values the varied backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of the student body. The scholarship supports the recruitment, retention, and graduation of students who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility initiatives at the College. The scholarship is partially funded by proceeds from the annual Soul Food Luncheon held each February. Scholarship amounts range from $250 to $1,000 and are awarded to multiple students each semester.
Eligible students must be enrolled (or planning to enroll) in any program at Blackhawk, either part-time (minimum six credits) or full-time and in good academic standing. This scholarship is available to new or continuing students who can demonstrate how their unique experiences, perspectives, or contributions support a diverse and inclusive campus community.