Black History Month
Each year, Massasoit Community College celebrates Black History Month to recognize the extraordinary achievements and contributions of Black individuals and further share stories of the Black experience – especially in our communities.
Through events – performances, panels, speakers, screenings – we hope that everyone can walk away with a better understanding of the experiences of our Black friends, family, colleagues, and classmates.
Do you know about Massasoit’s Black Studies program?
Massasoit is one of a handful of community colleges across the country offering an associate degree in Black Studies. It offers an interdisciplinary curriculum in which students learn to critically examine, analyze, and interpret Black experiences. The degree offers a broad selection of courses addressing historical, cultural, and sociological factors that affect the lives of Black people. Learn more about the program.
Black History Month Events
We have several events planned throughout Black History Month in different formats. Details for the events will be updated below.
Entrepreneurial Leadership & Betting on Yourself
Date and time: Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Location: Brockton Campus Student Center, Lounge
Massasoit's SUCCESS program is hosting workshops on developing the entrepreneurial mindset and on brand management in competitive spaces. The event will end with a panel discussion. Participants will gain real-world insights from experienced leaders in the local business community, including:
- Victoria Downes, Vice President of Eastern Bank's Equity Alliance for Business Program
- Dr. Charlene Hollins, Nurse Entrepreneur & Owner of EquitableCare4u a hybrid primary care and medspa practice
- Lillian Brandao, Founding and Managing Partner of ServPro, She is also co-owner of Estella Restaurant with locations in Boston and Patriots Place.
- Ricardo Louis, CEO of Prive Parking.
Food will be provided.
Push4Change Luncheon
Date and time: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 11:30 am to 2:00 pm
Location: Brockton Campus Student Center
Join Breaking Through Roadblocks and Massasoit's Black Studies Program for a free luncheon event that explores barriers that the Black community faces - including redlining, mass incarceration, and economic exclusion. A panel of experts will discuss these topics, question whether barriers are intentional,and will discuss how the community moves foward and pushes for real solutions. The panel, moderated by Pastor Drew Ambroise, includes:
- Dianne Wilkerson, former state senator and civil rights activist
- Dr. Aminah Pilgrim, Coordinator of Black Studies at Massasoit
- Dr. Stacy Grundy, Co-owner of the Route History Museum
- Dr. Willie Bradley, Professor of Criminal Justice at Curry College
Refreshments provided. Zoom option is available.
2026 Black Vendor Fair | Celebrate. Support. Connect.
Date and time: Monday, February 23, 2026, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
Location: Brockton Campus Student Center, Lounge
In celebration of Black History Month 2026, we invite students, faculty, and staff to attend the Black Vendor Fair - a vibrant showcase of local Black-owned businesses, products, and services. This event highlights entrepreneurship, promotes economic empowerment, and strengthens connections between Massasoit's community and local Black business owners.
Black History Month Speaker: Jacqueline Jones
Date and time: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
Location: Brockton Campus Student Center, Louison Boardroom
Join Jacqueline Jones, a former Massasoit professor and a commissioner on the Plymouth County Commission on the Status of Women for an engaging speaking program - The Power of Your Voice. This interactive presentation will focus on five powerful Black women who used their voices for critical social action and change. Lunch provided.
HBCU Alumni Talk
Date and time: Wednesday, February 25, 2026, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Location: Zoom
Interested in HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities)? Join us to hear from HBCU alumni who attended Norfolk State University and Southern University of New Orleans (SUNO), as well as Brockton partners, as they share their experiences and offer tips on scholarships, networking, and planning for college out of state. Get your questions answered in a relaxed, student-focused session!
Massasoit Community College encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions related to access for this event, please contact Joia Souza Dacaret, Director of the Unity Center, at jfontenelesouza@massasoit.mass.edu or (508) 588-9100, extension 1404 in advance of your participation or visit.