On Feb. 15, the voice of the late Ms. Jerre Blaylock, a Lane College Alumna, opened the Eighth Annual Black History Program in Henderson with a stellar rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” In keeping with the theme, “Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs),” Ms. Blaylock was given a spotlight moment in the program by her niece, Ms. Rhianna Chism.
Randall Cunningham, a student at Chester County Junior High School, set the tone for the event by telling a joke that had the audience “laughing in their boots.”
The speakers for the event were Ms. Dearnzea Williamson and Ms. Alisha Taylor, both from Memphis and Dr. James Pogge, the Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Lane College. Representatives of the Air Force recruiting office in Jackson, rounded off this impeccable lineup of presenters.
Ms. Williamson, a Grambling University and South Western Christian College Alumna, emphasized her experiences at HBCU. Le Moyne-Owen’s recruiter, Ms. Taylor, stressed GPA requirements, scholarships and details about entering college. A robot controlled by a student from the audience was a part of Dr. Pogge’s presentation about the HBCU C2 program offered at Lane College.
Many questions were asked of our heroes from the United States Air Force as they shared information about how to obtain a free college education and the Air Force lifestyle.
Several volunteers kept the audience entertained during the program. First, Ms. Amelya Cooper performed several songs, “Feeling Good,” by Nina Simone and “Respect” by Aretha Franklin. She led the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” by James and John Johnson. Secondly, during the question-and-answer section of the event, audience members who participated were presented with gift certificates and gift cards, donated by generous businesses in Henderson.
The next program will be from 2-4 p.m. Feb. 21, 2026, at 247 East Main Street in Henderson. This is a free event, and everyone is welcome!
