We all like a good story about overcoming odds and transforming misfortune into triumph. That’s the story Rosie Perez talked about during an interview today (publicizing her book on NPR). Perez went from Soul Train dancer to actor, to victim rights advocate and motivational speaker. She is pictured above during a visit to the Southwest Community Center, where she was a keynote speaker (2011).
Professor Alejandro Garcia
Scholar Brittney Cooper spoke to Syracuse University students about being curious, challenging and creative.
Here are two inspiring messages we heard this week directed toward students (young and old): One is from Syracuse’s DJ Maestro (the Official DJ of SU Athletics and professor at SUNY Cortland); the other came from Brittney Cooper, who is a founder of the Crunk Feminist Collective and a professor at Rutgers.
Cooper visited SU last night. A portion of her message is posted below.
Cuse Fans, State Tower Building
Tony Monaco played in and around Syracuse numerous times, including a Jazz in the City gig that was held in Little Italy back in the day. Monaco will return next month to play with the CNY Jazz All Stars for a show he’s calling “Swing Italian Style” at the Sheraton Hotel.
Comedian and television writer Larry Wilmore visited the Newhouse School to discuss his career last week. Wilmore’s resume includes ‘The Facts of Life, ‘In Living Color,’ ‘The Office,’ ‘Sister Sister,’ ‘The Bernie Mac Show,’ and he is currently the senior black correspondent for ‘The Daily Show.’ He was interviewed by SU Professor Charisse L’Pree. In the clip below, Wilmore talks about the ‘Bernie Mac Show’ and the influence of technology.
Storyteller/Griot Jackie Grace performed as Harriet Tubman during the Turning Another Page (TAP) Festival at Bethany Baptist Church on Sunday.
The SU Zinda Dance Team participated in SU Rising last night. The program and candle light vigil, which was held at Hendricks Chapel, aims to raise awareness and stop violence against women.
Spreading some 'Cuse love (Downtown)
Author Sondra Denise Roberts at a Go-On-Girl Book Club event in 2007.