Marshall University Alumni Association

2006 Donning of Kente Celebration

Marshall University Multicultural Affairs and the Center for African American Students’ Programs held this year's Donning of Kente celebration and processional on April 26 on Buskirk Field at the center of the Huntington campus.

Marshall instituted the tradition of presenting Kente cloths to graduating African-Americans several years ago. The Kente cloth, which resembles a stole and is worn with the academic regalia, is a symbol of accomplishment that has its roots in a long tradition of weaving in West African countries. Kente was developed in the 17^th Century by the Ashanti people of Africa and has roots in weaving that go back to around 3000 B.C. It is reserved for very special occasions and may be used as a special gift item during such rites and ceremonies as child naming, puberty, graduation, marriage and soul-washing. It also is used as a symbol of respect and achievement.

At the Donning Ceremony, Maurice Cooley is donning the cloth on a student; Dr. Cleckley (right) is observing and Jocelyn Williams, Black United Students president, is standing in the background. Each student was called to the podium by name, major and degree and were donned with a Kente cloth.

The keynote speaker for the ceremony was William A. Smith, Cabell County superintendent of schools. He was introduced by Jocelyn Williams, president of the Black United Students. Maurice Cooley, director of the Center for African American Students’ Programs, offered the welcome and meditation.

Opening remarks were made by Marshall President Stephen J. Kopp and Betty J. Cleckley, vice president for MU’s Multicultural Affairs. Philip Carter, professor and chair of Marshall’s department of Social Work, concluded the program with farewell remarks.

Musical selections were provided by the MU African Dance and Drum Ensemble directed by Steve Hall and the African American Musical Lectures Series. Ensemble directed by Shanti Chapman, graduate student.

	Opening remarks were made by Marshall President Stephen J. Kopp, Ph.D.
	Left to right: Ronald Adkins (attending guest); Dr. Betty Jane Cleckley; William Smith, guest speaker; and Dr. George Arthur, MU faculty, following the ceremony at the reception on the Plaza.