Friday, February 17, 2023 - Coker University’s Black Alumni Network (CBAN) will present Kente stoles to graduating seniors from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds. This will be the second annual event to celebrate the accomplishments of these students.
The event includes speakers Dr. Jean Swindle, ‘94, and Dr. Danny Malone. Dr. Swindle is an Assistant Professor of education at East Tennessee State University, and Dr. Malone serves as an Assistant Professor of Criminology at nearby Coastal Carolina University. The evening will conclude with the Donning of the Kente for students to wear with their graduation regalia in May.
The Kente cloth is a Ghanaian handwoven textile with strips of silk and cotton. The cloth is rich in symbolism and has become a graduation tradition across the country. At Coker, this stole represents achievement and perseverance throughout their higher education career.
The Donning of the Kente Ceremony is one of many events hosted by CBAN this weekend.
- Friday, February 17, 6:15 p.m.: Pre-event social at the Stein Gallery
- Friday, February 17, 7 p.m.: Donning of the Kente Ceremony at the Elizabeth Boatwright Performing Arts Center
- Saturday, February 18, 11 a.m.: Coat Giveaway and the Boys & Girls Club
- Saturday, February 18, 6:30 p.m.: CBAN Mixer at the Rooftop Bar at the Mantissa Hotel
Coker University’s Black Alumni Network is an affinity group a part of the Coker University Alumni Association. The president is Toschia Moffett-Young, ‘94.
