August 7, 2007

Black Cultural Center welcomes students with 'Boilerfest - Blues and BBQ'

President France A. Córdova will give welcoming remarks at the casual, interactive program that introduces first-year students to the Black Cultural Center. The BCC Performing Arts Ensembles, which include the Black Voices of Inspiration choir, Jahari Dance Troupe, New Directional Players theatrical company and Haraka Writers, will present an artistic showcase.  

"The ensembles provide creative outlets for students and enhance cultural and artistic diversity on campus," said BCC director Renee Thomas. "The showcase is designed to increase awareness and inspire first-year students to join the BCC performing arts ensemble program."

Representatives from Purdue's administrative leadership team will be featured as celebrity chefs to serve barbecue that complements the Black Cultural Center fall semester theme, "The myths and mores that make up the blues tradition." Free food, live entertainment and prizes also will be available.

"Boilerfest creates an opportunity to come together as a community, celebrate the start of the academic year and introduce the BCC Cultural Arts Series," Thomas said. "Students can get essential information and meet representatives from a wide range of departments and student organizations. It is a great place to meet other students, faculty and staff."

Boilerfest is free and open to the public. For information, contact BCC at (765) 494-3092.

Established at Purdue in 1969, the Black Cultural Center is nationally recognized and acknowledged by the Association of Black Culture Centers as one of the best centers of its kind. Thomas said the center helps students gain a greater understanding of African-American heritage and supports and enhances cultural diversity on campus and in the community.

Writer: Maggie Morris, (765) 494-2432, maggiemorris@purdue.edu

Source: Renee Thomas, (765) 494-3091, rathomas@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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