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Mount Saint Mary’s University welcomed students, faculty, staff and community members to the 2026 Black History Month Finale Show on February 24 at its Doheny Campus, transforming Rose Hills Auditorium into a vibrant celebration of culture, scholarship and legacy.

Organized by the Bernadette Gonzaque Robert Center for Inclusive Excellence and held under the theme “Celebrate. Educate. Elevate,” the fourth annual finale marked the 100th anniversary of Black History Month observance, first launched in 1926 through the work of historian Carter G. Woodson. From music and dance to academic presentations, the evening reflected the depth and diversity of Black history, and its enduring impact on American life.

“This celebration and the Center’s programs offered throughout the year reminds us that Black history is not confined to a single month or a single narrative,” said Krishauna Hines-Gaither, PhD, vice president for strategic initiatives and partnerships at Mount Saint Mary’s. “It lives in our scholarship, our artistry, our service and our daily commitment to one another. When we gather to celebrate, educate and elevate, we honor those who came before us and affirm our responsibility to shape what comes next.”

The program was led by actress, model and humanitarian Mychal-Bella Rayne Bowman and entertainment professional Dejanee Callahan, who served as emcees. They guided the audience through a program that balanced celebration with reflection, highlighting both historical milestones and contemporary voices.

A standout moment came as music student Lalibela Faraba ‘26 performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing” on viola, inviting the audience to stand in honor of the Black National Anthem. Later, the dance group Anointed Feet Dance, directed by Kanisha Bennett, PhD, delivered two dynamic praise dance performances that blended faith and storytelling, drawing enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience.

The evening also featured members of the Mount community in meaningful ways. Joy Brathwaite, MBA, MSA, vice president for finance and administration, performed a gospel selection centered on faith and perseverance. Political science senior Tajelle Freeman ‘26 interviewed distinguished court and congressional stenographer Brenda Countz, who in 1985 became the first person of color assigned to report a State of the Union address before President Ronald Reagan. Countz later returned to the stage with a vocal medley, underscoring the breadth of her talents and experiences.

Student scholarship and creative expression were central to the program. Pre-nursing major Grace Hill ’28 and clinical psychology doctoral student Lequarius Ruttlen ‘28 delivered an original spoken-word piece honoring ancestors and affirming identity. Kimberly Nao, PhD, Fritz Burns Endowed Chair and professor of education, shared research on Bessie Bruington Burke, the first Black teacher and principal in Los Angeles public schools, drawing connections between local history and the ongoing work of educational equity. A student-produced slideshow curated by Efrata Tesfaye and Lora Figuera concluded the show, highlighting the accomplishments and leadership of Mount students across disciplines.

Throughout the program, the Center for Inclusive Excellence encouraged attendees to participate in a community book drive in partnership with the Assistance League of Los Angeles. The initiative will provide books to children in the surrounding community, extending the evening’s focus beyond celebration and into tangible action in support of literacy and access.

The finale served not only as a capstone to Black History Month at the Mount, but as a shared space for remembrance, learning and recognition of the individuals — past and present — whose stories continue to shape the community.