Registration is open for the inaugural Gertrude Judd Upperman ’69 Symposium on Feb. 23 from 10 am to 3:15 pm at Dana Auditorium.

The symposium will explore Black cultural identity, expression, experiences, activism, challenges and resilience. It also serves as a venue for alumni, faculty, staff, students and community leaders to share their knowledge and creative works surrounding the Black culture and Black history.

The symposium will address three issues:

Self Care & Movement: Speakers will address mindfulness, dance, diet, meditation, art, exercise, hair care and skin care, among other topics.

Financial Awareness: Speakers will explore ways for participants to gain a better understanding about paying for higher education, saving money in the short and long term and managing money.

Empowerment: Speakers will discuss ways for Guilfordians to get involved in their communities, perseverance, pursuing a higher education, career searches and preparation, utilizing resources, building important skills, mental health, and sharing personal success stories.

The day includes lunch in the Guilford dining hall and a tour of the College. In addition to the Guilford community, the symposium is open to junior and senior high school students.

Register here. Participation is free of charge for all.

A reception will follow the symposium from 3:30 pm to 5 pm in Founders Hall.

The symposium is named in honor of Gertrude Upperman, who died last year. She was one of the first Black students to enroll at Guilford and an alumni leader and longtime supporter of the College.