Thursday, October 30, 2008

Mary Frances Early

October 19 was a great night at the PSC. Mary Frances Early, the first African-American to graduate from the University of Georgia, was our guest. She shared with us about what it was like coming to UGA in 1961. It was especially moving to hear her read a letter that Dr. Martin Luther King wrote her during that time. She told us about coming to the Presbyterian Student Center for a surprise birthday party after arriving on campus in that summer of 1961. I was glad to have her back to tell that story and to hear her say what it meant to her. I was proud that we could be a part of that history.

I received a letter from Dr. Early this week. In it, she wrote "Words are inadequate to express my appreciation for the warm welcome and uplifting service on last Sunday...Thank you for the invitation to come and talk to the students. They were so inspiring. The cake was not only lovely, but also the best chocolate cake I've ever eaten! I had to fight the tears as I remembered a similar occasion in June of 1961. God is so good; He reminds us daily that we do not walk alone. The beauty of fellowship was once again emblazoned in my heart. I was humbled and grateful!" She goes on to write, "Please give my regards to your lovely family, and to the great students; they are awesome! Convey to them my sincere gratitude for their warm reception."

God is so good.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Karen Low Phillips Exhibit

We had an exhibit of Karen Low Phillip's photography last week. Karen (UGA '02, '07) was involved here a few years back and she painted a beautiful mural in the dining hall that tells the whole story from creation to resurrection.

When we decided to start displaying art at the PSC, she was the first person that we called. The exhibit is entitled EKARO: Good Morning Nigeria. Several students, board members, alums, and people from the community gathered together last week at the PSC to see the exhibit and hear Karen tell of her time in Nigeria. I don't have any pics from that night--I always forget to take pictures--but I do have some pics of the pics.