Black History Month Staff Spotlight: Moses DuPre'
February 17, 2023 | by Shelbe Rodriguez
In honor of Black History Month, Lamar University will celebrate with a series of events organized and sponsored by a variety of organizations, departments, clubs and student organizations that highlight and pay tribute to the achievements of African Americans and important events that contributed to U.S. history.
In addition to university events, LU also chose to celebrate Black excellence by spotlighting several Black LU students, faculty and staff and the many reasons why they feel this month is important.
This Black History Month, Moses DuPre', assistant athletics director of compliance, shares how Black history has influenced him.
First/last name: Moses K. DuPre’
Current Title: Department: Assistant Athletics Director for Compliance
Why does it feel important to celebrate “Black History” Month?
It is my understanding that one should know that Black history is truly a pivotal part of American history. To celebrate “Black History,” we must teach our history and “His-Story” that we are resilient and we show continuous resolve.
In the early 1900s, Carver G. Woodson began promoting the achievements of Black Americans which I believe, through readings, lead to the todays “Black History Month.” But moreover, designed to counter the negative and racist stereotype engrained in the American culture.
We must do more to make sure a broader, richer and structured program be introduced to aid our youths in combating racism and bigotry.
Furthermore, Black History Month celebrations are important because its absence will not allow us as a race to be able to understand the country, its wealth, its politics, and the fragility of democracy, if we do not understand and acknowledge the global footprint of our people Black people.
We, as a race, must understand that this is our country and we also played a vital and leading role in the history of the United States.
Black Americans have long complained that their stories of accomplishment and struggle have been lifted out of history books and, with that in mind, I ask the question, ‘When will we be allowed to write, not re-write, the history of Blacks that will accurately depict Black History and its importance?’
What motivates you to be successful?
For approximately 19 plus years; I am most proud when a student is recruited, retained, remains eligible and graduates.
How does “Black History” influence your professional or personal life?
Professionally: Black history influences me professionally when it prepares me to understand that racism and bigotry is not absent from the workplace and that I should remain steadfast toward that ultimate goal of having a positive impact on each student’s life.
Personal: Black History influences me personally because it is a navigational device that makes my spiritual and emotional walk easily traveled.
What advice do you have for the generations of Black students coming after you?
You must be respectful, not only to your parents, but to all others who struggled to give you a platform to respectfully articulate your concerns; be able to engage and converse with other races, colors, creeds and nationalities; and to show you can agree to disagree. Always be Thoughtful and Thankful!
Did you learn anything new about history in the Black community this year? (this could be personal or broader in a historical sense) Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Personally, nothing new, but in a broader historical sense, we should organize Black history festivals and presentations in our community year-round to help discern the true narrative of the how and why “Black History” is important to our existence!
Current Title: Department: Assistant Athletics Director for Compliance
Why does it feel important to celebrate “Black History” Month?
It is my understanding that one should know that Black history is truly a pivotal part of American history. To celebrate “Black History,” we must teach our history and “His-Story” that we are resilient and we show continuous resolve.
In the early 1900s, Carver G. Woodson began promoting the achievements of Black Americans which I believe, through readings, lead to the todays “Black History Month.” But moreover, designed to counter the negative and racist stereotype engrained in the American culture.
We must do more to make sure a broader, richer and structured program be introduced to aid our youths in combating racism and bigotry.
Furthermore, Black History Month celebrations are important because its absence will not allow us as a race to be able to understand the country, its wealth, its politics, and the fragility of democracy, if we do not understand and acknowledge the global footprint of our people Black people.
We, as a race, must understand that this is our country and we also played a vital and leading role in the history of the United States.
Black Americans have long complained that their stories of accomplishment and struggle have been lifted out of history books and, with that in mind, I ask the question, ‘When will we be allowed to write, not re-write, the history of Blacks that will accurately depict Black History and its importance?’
What motivates you to be successful?
- Being able to help others.
- Being Passionate with a sense of purpose.
- Being open to change because it’s inevitable.
For approximately 19 plus years; I am most proud when a student is recruited, retained, remains eligible and graduates.
How does “Black History” influence your professional or personal life?
Professionally: Black history influences me professionally when it prepares me to understand that racism and bigotry is not absent from the workplace and that I should remain steadfast toward that ultimate goal of having a positive impact on each student’s life.
Personal: Black History influences me personally because it is a navigational device that makes my spiritual and emotional walk easily traveled.
What advice do you have for the generations of Black students coming after you?
You must be respectful, not only to your parents, but to all others who struggled to give you a platform to respectfully articulate your concerns; be able to engage and converse with other races, colors, creeds and nationalities; and to show you can agree to disagree. Always be Thoughtful and Thankful!
Did you learn anything new about history in the Black community this year? (this could be personal or broader in a historical sense) Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Personally, nothing new, but in a broader historical sense, we should organize Black history festivals and presentations in our community year-round to help discern the true narrative of the how and why “Black History” is important to our existence!