Dear BRCC Community,
While February has been identified as the month we celebrate Black History, I believe we should celebrate yearlong the history, perseverance, and accomplishments of African Americans. Taking time this month to specifically reflect upon, learn about, and appreciate the many contributions made by African American men and women is important to me and our college community. Tracing the years of struggle reminds us that there remains much work to do, especially in recognizing the struggles and sacrifices of so many great leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King. Although there was bloodshed and horrific conditions during Dr. King’s lifetime, there was still a sense of hope of overcoming and grasping the American Dream. The many years of discrimination and racial injustice cannot deter us from having the courage, as did Dr. King, to fight to make life better and equal for all of us.
As we learn more about the most recent incident of violence that ended the life of Tyre Nichols in Memphis, so too comes sadness and even anger. It may be hard to find hope in these times. When I see such a senseless beating of a young man that reminds me of many students I see walking around our campus at BRCC, my heart breaks. Memphis, a historic city that played such a vital role in initiating the Civil Rights Movement and houses the National Civil Rights Museum, is again a place of loss. While I was encouraged by how quickly the City of Memphis moved to be transparent with their investigation and release of the horrific video, I am most inspired to see how the community rallied together and let their voices be heard by protesting peacefully. Let this be a lesson to all of us to remain vigilant against injustices no matter where they may arise.
As I deeply reflect during Black History Month, I remain committed to the journey before me. My wish is to carve out a path to leave a legacy for the next generation that will come behind us here. As I shared in The Fighter In Me, my past has molded me into who I am today, and I plan to use the lessons of my own journey to make BRCC and our community a better place. My purpose is to make BRCC more than just a college, but a place where faculty, students, staff, and alumni can feel welcome and part of a community that is filled with hope and aspiration. My challenge to each of you is to be a beacon of light, better neighbor, and friend in support of stronger communities across this state. Reach out to someone you have not had a conversation with and learn what makes them unique and special. In that way, we will continue to build BRCC into a special place to work and learn.
Sincerely,
Willie E. Smith, Sr., Ed.D.
Chancellor