Lux Et Veritas Symposiums
Following high-profile events in the news, in politics and across the country on college campuses, Jackson College President Daniel J. Phelan called together a task force in 2017, Lux et Veritas, or light and truth.
Lux et Veritas members are called to promote an inclusive, civil, diverse and secure campus for all. Helping people understand that it is all right to have opinions, to engage in a healthy debate, but to also understand how to respect another’s opinions and, at times, agree to disagree, are important topics.
Race in America: Current Obstacles – Future Opportunities
April 20, 2021
Racial issues and unrest are in the spotlight today. This discussion heard from a panel of educators and students about current issues regarding race relationships, systemic racism, strategies for change and hope for the future. Panelists included:
- Lydia S. Said, Jackson College student
- Christopher Boulter, deputy director of Blackman Township Safety and adjunct instructor at JC
- Professor Steven Tuckey, Dr. George and Barbara Raven Endowed Chair for Mathematics at JC
- Undersheriff Christopher Simpson, Jackson County
- Professor Anthony Cleveland, psychology faculty at JC
The History of Race in America
Feb. 23, 2021
This discussion included panel of Jackson College faculty as they discussed the history of race, and joined in a question-and-answer time. Panelists included:
- Dr. David Smith, business instructor, will share “Early History of Racism and Taking Action,”
- Mr. Anthony Stewart, instructor of criminal justice and social sciences, will share “Racism After the Civil War,” and,
- Dr. Clevester Moten, public administration instructor, will share “Racism in the 1960s and Present Day.”
Race in America: What is Race?
Jan. 21, 2021
We hear a lot about race on the news today, but how is it defined and where do those definitions come from? Panelists included:
- Introduction by Professor Anthony Cleveland, psychology;
- Professor Michaela Holdridge, social sciences; “Race from an Anthropological Perspective”
- Jennifer Pruette, biology; “Race from a Biogenetic Perspective”
- Marianna Nunez, psychology; “Race from a Sociocultural Perspective”
- Clevester Moten, business administration; wrap-up and introduction to a future session.
How to Have a Conversation About Sex, God, Race and Politics Without Picking Up a Club
Nov, 18, 2020
This year has brought differences in our American society to the forefront. From feelings on the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to stop its spread, to race and justice issues to presidential politics, heated conversations abound. Panelists discussed their own backgrounds and how we can better engage with others without excessive anger or strife. Panelists included:
- Professor Anthony Cleveland
- Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Lee Hampton
- Database & Internet Systems Coordinator Jay Ponagai
- Assistant Professor Joe Shackelford.
Nobody Wins When the Family Feuds
March 26, 2019
What does the word “family” mean today? Has the definition changed? This discussion explored the topic from different perspectives. Panelists included:
- student Camryn Burrows, (she/her/hers) a resident assistant on campus;
- Jennifer Fiero, (she/her/hers) reference librarian;
- Tom McMillen-Oakley, (he/him/his) professor of art;
- student Omari Blanch, (he/him/his) member of Men of Merit;
- Phoenix Kelley (they/them/their) of Anchor & Fox Consulting.
The Role of Humility in the Quest for Truth
Nov. 26, 2018
Humility is the quality of being humble, not thinking too highly or too often of one’s self, and putting the needs of another before your own. It can mean not drawing attention to yourself, and acknowledging that you are not always right. Humility is a necessity in the learning process, and in today’s public arena, some may see a perceived lack of humility.
This symposium featured a panel of speakers exploring the topic of humility and truth from different perspectives. Panelists included:
- Randall Locke, veterans’ resource representative;
- Lee Hampton, chief diversity officer;
- Anthony Cleveland, psychology professor;
- Dr. Steven Tuckey, mathematics professor;
- Tina May, office assistant at Jackson College @ LISD TECH, discussing parenting;
- Dr. Dan Phelan, college president.
Shining Light on the Darkness of Ignorance; the Role of Academia
April 23, 2018
A panel of speakers from faculty and administration will discuss the role of academia, including the history of higher education in Western civilization; the role higher education can play in identity formation; and the positive correlation between higher education and career options. Panelists include:
- Professor of Mathematics Alana Tuckey
- Professor of Communication Becky Belter-Roberts
- Associate Professor and Maher Endowed Chair of Regional History Diana Agy
- Vice President of Student Services Jeremy Frew
Truth from Questions: How Does Truth Emerge from Doubt
Feb. 26, 2018
A panel comprised of faculty, staff and community each had five minutes to address the concept of truth from their field of expertise. Why do we believe something is true? They explored a variety of perspectives – law, faith, politics and media and more. Panelists included:
- Pastor Rik Hilborn
- Attorney Everett Perry
- Professor of Political Science Shirin Timms
- Professor of Mathematics Steven Tuckey.
What is Inclusion
Nov. 20, 2017
A panel comprised of faculty, staff and community each had five minutes to address the question, “What is inclusion?” Inclusion is, in the broad sense, “the state of being included” or “the act of including.” Inclusiveness involves creating an atmosphere where all people feel valued and respected and have access to the same opportunities. Panelists included:
- Donna Lake, Jackson College Board of Trustees member;
- Monica Bouman, director of Center for Student Success;
- Nikki Joly, Jackson Pride Center;
- Justin McClure, former Jackson College student;
- Ron Brooks, pastor, Trinity and Brookside United Methodist Church;
Why be civil?
Sept. 18, 2017
A panel comprised of faculty, staff and community each had five minutes to address the question, “Why be civil?” Professor Anthony Cleveland, psychology, served as moderator and discusses the evolution of social morals. Other panelists included:
- Mary Jo Kennedy, student judicial officer and director of criminal justice programs;
- Elaine Themm, political science instructor;
- Lee Hampton, director of multicultural affairs;
- Del Belcher, social media specialist;
- and students Markyia Douglas, Anthony Forsythe and Nicole Cossum-Ready.