Members of West VirginiaUniversitys Center for Black Culture and Research Paul Robeson/Mahalia Jackson Choir will stage an afternoon of workshops and offer a dynamic evening concert Saturday, March 1, at a Teen Summit in Charleston. The event begins at 1 p.m. at the GraceBibleChurch, 600 Kanawha Blvd. W.
Organizers say candid discussions will be held with KanawhaValley teens about how to prepare for college, how to enjoy college and how college can benefit their future.
The discussion sessions will also allow WVU students to connect with teenagers who may not be planning to attend college.
“We want young people to know that they are not alone in the things that they are dealing with and the decisions that are facing them,”said Carolyn Staten, choir advisor.”Teen-agers seem to be more open to discussions about college preparation when it comes from college students. They can relate on a different level than most adults can.”
WVU representatives will also be on hand to provide information on admissions procedures and financial aid, and a separate session will be held just for parents.
The choir conducts similar workshops across the state each year to inspire young people to make good choices and plan for their future.
The group performs primarily gospel music and is composed of students from across the United States.
“We are excited to bring the Paul Robeson/Mahalia Jackson Choir to Charleston,”said Christy Day, assistant director of the WVU Alumni Association.”We really believe that teens in our community will get a lot out of the day, and the choir performance is going to be amazing. Whenever I hear them perform, I am more and more impressed. They are wonderful representatives of our University.”
Discussion groups are scheduled from 1-3 p.m. The choir will hold a music workshop for local students interested in learning some of the music they perform from 3:30-5 p.m. The concert begins at 7 p.m., and teens that participate in the music workshop will be invited to sing some selections during the performance.
All activities are free and will be held at GraceBibleChurch. Registration is required for the workshops by calling Christy Day at 304-558-3481.
The concert is free and open to the public; no ticket is required. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Teen Summit is sponsored by the WVU Alumni Association, the CBC &R under the direction of Dr. Katherine Bankole, WVU Office of Student Life and GraceBibleChurch.