Milligan’s Goah Diversity Scholars Program will sponsor a Black History Month gospel concert on Feb. 26. The event, “Why We Sing,” will be free and open to the public. It will take place from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in upper Seeger Chapel.
The concert will feature four choirs from the surrounding area:
- New Hope Baptist Church Choir, Bristol, VA
- Friendship Baptist Church Choir, Johnson City, TN
- Jubilee World Outreach Choir, Johnson City, TN
- Thankful Baptist Church Choir, Johnson City, TN
According to Gwen Ellis, director of the Goah Diversity Scholars program, attendees will hear samples of traditional gospel music mixed with contemporary gospel.
“In considering how to celebrate Black History Month this year, Goah students proposed a gospel concert because the genre has played a big role in the history of black and African American people in this country,” Ellis said. “This will be a way to share a bit of history in a way that is joyous and uplifting.”
Ellis says she recalls that when she came to Milligan in the fall of 2019, students shared a desire to hear a variety of music styles on campus, such as in chapel or choir events. In the spring of 2020, Goah intended to sponsor a music program that would feature different music styles, but the event was canceled due to the coronavirus.
“The concert coming up also fits the purpose of the Goah program, which is to enrich the educational experience on campus,” Ellis said.
The Goah Diversity Scholars program is a group of students who share their diverse cultural experiences across campus. The program includes regular meetings, campus and community events, and service projects.
Goah president Chris Trevino encourages students to attend and join in worship.
“This event is also just about unifying together and worshiping our creator,” he said. “I think everyone will enjoy this effort to recognize black culture.
Headling photo from Milligan University