Feature
Funding for the House of Black Culture – Sankofa
The total cost for the project is $1.25 million. A fundraising initiative for the house was launched in August 2017 following a challenge gift by Ed Haddock ’69, a member of the Board of Trustees, along with his wife, Edye, and son, Ted, through their Edward E. Haddock Jr. Family Foundation. While the project is underway and the University is contributing substantial resources to ensure the project is completed on schedule, fundraising is ongoing. To learn more or make a gift, visit owu.edu/givetohbc.
Sankofa (A Message from the HBC Fundraising Committee)
In announcing the fundraising initiative for the House, the committee drew on the Ghanaian word “sankofa,” meaning it is not taboo to go back and get what you forgot.
Often symbolized by a bird with its feet facing ahead while its face turns back, Sankofa teaches us we must go back and gather the best of what our past offers so that we can achieve our full potential as we move forward.
A new physical structure will soon grace the campus of Ohio Wesleyan and continue the rich traditions of the House of Black Culture. The address and legacy of the House will remain, with a beautiful new home to celebrate the impact its residents have had on one another, the Ohio Wesleyan community, and the world.
All contributions help to cement our history while simultaneously fostering a place for current and future students to learn, grow, build community, and fuel the legacy of the House.
Khadija Adams ’04, Aaron Granger ’93, Barbara McEachern Smith ’74, and Pete Smith ’71