Black History Month Event Celebrates Student Leadership at Central Penn College

Students, faculty, staff and community guests gathered at the Conference Center in Enola on Feb. 19 for Central Penn College’s annual Black History Month Luncheon.

The event honored five outstanding students for their academic achievement, leadership and service. Each recipient received a $500 scholarship through the nonprofit Central Penn College Education Foundation to support their continued success.

2026 Student Award Recipients:

Danasia Morris – The Rosa Parks Award for Academic Excellence

Kyle Brent – The Dr. C. Delores Tucker Award for Community Service

Donnell Loud – The Rev. Dr. Olin Harris Award for Character

Ashuan John-Harris – The Bayard Rustin Award for Social Justice

Jalicia “JJ” Johnson – The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award for Leadership

Students were nominated by faculty, staff and peers, reflecting the strong sense of community across campus.

The luncheon, which welcomed approximately 140 attendees, was intentionally student-led. Black Student Union leaders helped shape the program, which included a moving performance by the Praise Team from Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

Keynote speaker Rev. Joseph Robinson, a local author, community leader and member of the Central Penn College Board of Directors, delivered the keynote address. In his remarks, Robinson emphasized the importance of remembering and protecting history.

“The one holding the pen gets to write the story,” Robinson said, encouraging attendees to value truth, perspective and the contributions of Black Americans throughout history.

The Presidential Commission Humanitarian Award was also presented to the West Shore Connect program for its ongoing commitment to inclusion. The program supports high school graduates with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing mentorship and opportunities for engagement alongside Central Penn student volunteers.

Through celebration, reflection and recognition, the annual luncheon once again highlighted Central Penn College’s commitment to leadership, diversity and hands-on education that prepares students to make a meaningful impact in their communities.