Arnold Boyd has influenced 160 student organizations for over 21 years, both organizing diverse programs to enlighten students and helping to plan events and establish their names.
Boyd also coordinates the African American Heritage Month, in February, along with student activity programs such as “Noontime Diversion,” bands at the Bell Tower and Student Leadership Retreat Programs.
He coordinates the Kaleidoscope funding grant program and develops presentations on student life for various classes and departments at Temple.
Boyd’s newest student program is “Memorable Moments in the Community,” sponsored by Student Activities.
The program was started in the fall of 2001 and features three events each semester.
Past events included: Native American tour in Delaware, which enabled students to talk with Native Americans, view a performance, and get a better understanding of Native American traditions and culture.
Asian community tour, which allowed students to view a performance, enjoy a cultural meal, and learn about different aspects of the Asian community.
An African American tour, which allowed students to learn about UNIA, the Universal Negro Improvement Association, which eventually grew to become the largest African American movement for self-pride in the United States during the 1920s.
A visit to the Puerto Rican community, which allowed students to take part in a musical performance and enjoy a traditional Latino heritage meal.
A trip to West Philly to visit a theatre for black performers where students saw a play and afterwards had a soul food dinner.
In order to gain the full experience of these cultural events, every event is designed to have a lecture or performance, and a meal that reflects the featured culture.
“Students need to have other experiences beside the Liberty Bell, Penn’s Landing, and other downtown activities.
Through this “Memorable Moments in the Community”, it gives them the opportunity to experience different cultures.
It is truly an experience that is memorable,” said Boyd.
Boyd was inspired to begin these programs because students always have the opportunity to experience traditional American landmarks, but never get the opportunity to really explore the great culture Philadelphia has to offer.
These bus trips to various communities are funded by Temple President David Adamany and are free to all Temple students.
There are usually 40 seats available and most of the seats go quickly.
The first community event of the fall semester is on Oct. 17. It will take place in the Cambodian community, in which a lecture and performance will be given along with a cultural meal.
During the week of Nov. 11, an Indian community event will be held.
To view upcoming events of Memorable Moments in the Community, pick up a copy of Live @ Temple, or watch for brochures and flyers.
Tiffani Joseph can be reached at Tilejo@aol.com
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