Author Linda Hass (far left) with Jackson community members whose ancestors' stories are featured in her book, Hidden in Plain Sight: The Underground Railroad in Jackson County.  Left to right: Barbara Parker, Kipp Parker, Thomas Burke, Lezlie Bowles

Baker College of Jackson and Baker College of Owosso each hosted free, daylong Black History Month events on February 13.

The Black History Month Celebration at Baker College of Jackson included an exhibit featuring African dress and jewelry, as well as Barak Obama memorabilia; movies and documentaries highlighting African American experiences; a social hour; and a discussion and book-signing with Linda Hass, author of, “Hidden in Plain Sight: The Underground Railroad in Jackson County.”

The Baker College of Owosso Black History Month Student Expo, now in its sixth year, was designed to illuminate the many aspects of diversity as it relates to African Americans. The Expo featured a variety of educational and interactive booths, created by Baker College students, in support of this year’s theme, “Black History Month: A Foundation for a Proud America.”

"Our geographic area is not very racially diverse, and of course as an institution of higher education, we really want to do our best to teach and inform both our students and community at large,” said Dr. Voula Erfourth, Director of Academic Affairs at the Owosso campus. “This has become an annual event where students from all programs, and faculty and staff get together and celebrate and learn about Black History Month.”

These events were free and open to both Baker College students and to the community.