Leading While Black

Elena Deanda, Associate Professor of Spanish at Washington College, welcomed Joyell Arvella to speak as part of the Leading While Black series. Ms. Arvella graduated from Washington College as Washington College’s first Black studies major. She spoke to Washington College students and other guests about Black women and female-presenting people who have been leaders throughout history. Some of these people include Lucy Hicks Anderson, Josephine Baker, Nina Simone, and Jiménez Román. She spoke about how leaders are not self-appointed, but chosen by the people who want her in power. She also presented and reflected on several poems about refining sexuality and about being raised Black. Ms. Arvella gracefully answered questions at the conclusion of the symposium. The college is very grateful for her time and presentation.