For generations, Black Americans have stood at the forefront of shaping history, breaking barriers and driving progress in every facet of society—from civil rights and politics to science and the arts. And throughout February, individuals are encouraged to recognize the achievements, resilience and contributions of Black individuals, past and present.
Every day, those part of the Black community at Case Western Reserve University enrich the university’s legacy—whether advancing scientific discoveries and social initiatives or helping to foster a more welcoming campus environment.
In honor of Black History Month, The Daily is putting a spotlight on six CWRU community members whose contributions are leaving indelible marks on the university and beyond.
Read on to meet three individuals whose cultural heritage inspires them to make lasting impacts, and get to know three others.
Answers have been edited for clarity for length.
Dennis Donkor
Within the Begun Center for Violence Prevention Research and Education, Dennis Donkor is a research associate of the Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Center of Excellence. In his role, Donkor supports youth and their families, helping individuals navigate challenges related to mental health.
1. What does your cultural heritage mean to you and how has it influenced your identity and experiences on campus?
I am a proud Ghanaian from Kumasi, which is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. Growing up in Kumasi, I was exposed to a rich blend of customs, languages and beliefs that shaped my understanding of inclusivity and adaptation to different social and cultural contexts. At CWRU, this background has enabled me to work together with others while supporting my team to achieve common goals in an environment of respect and tolerance.
2. How has your experience at CWRU shaped your commitment to making a difference in your community? What impact do you hope to create?
CWRU has further challenged me to collaborate and learn from people of diverse backgrounds who share common goals. It has deepened my commitment to challenge the status quo, utilize data and research as tools to improve the health of vulnerable populations through evidence-based community driven research and initiatives. In the words of [Begun Center’s] Richard Shepler, “We are successful when youth and families are successful.” I look forward to celebrating more success stories for families in Ohio through the work I do.
3. Why do you believe it’s important for institutions in higher education to celebrate and recognize various cultural heritages?
It is critical to celebrate and recognize diverse cultural heritages as the first step to tolerance. In the profound words of [Nobel Peace Prize laureate] Kofi Annan, “Tolerance promoted, protected and enshrined will ensure all freedoms.” I believe the beauty of our existence is in the appreciation of differences and backgrounds.
Tiffany Hall
Tiffany Hall, a coordinator of the Greek Life Office, supports CWRU fraternity and sorority chapters by overseeing finances, data reports and risk management. A co-chair of the Division of Student Affairs’ Development and Learning Committee, Hall also helps plan divisional retreats, professional development programs and holiday gatherings.
1. What does your cultural heritage mean to you and how has it influenced your identity and experiences on campus?
I’ve always been proud of my African American culture, specifically the resilience of my ancestors and the colorful ways our creativity, innovation, and unapologetic authenticity helped shape the country we live in. I strongly believe that showing up as your authentic self is the bridge builder of relationships. I show up as myself every day and have built genuine relationships on campus, whether with my students that I interact with daily, the building service workers that I make small talk with, or my colleagues.
2. How has your experience at CWRU shaped your commitment to making a difference in your community? What impact do you hope to create?
My time at CWRU has strengthened my passion for student development and community building. Working in Greek life, I’ve seen firsthand how a ripple effect of engaged leadership fosters strong, meaningful, and inclusive communities. I plan to continue empowering our students to take ownership of their experiences on campus, whether that is in their studies, extracurriculars, or in their fraternity or sorority.
3. Why do you believe it’s important for institutions in higher education to celebrate and recognize various cultural heritages?
Recognizing and celebrating diverse cultures is important because celebrating other [individuals’] uniqueness is empowering. It creates an appreciation and understanding between yourself and the diverse experiences, backgrounds and histories of others, which in turn provides a connected environment. I’ve seen how students thrive when they are valued for who they are. CWRU celebrating different cultures enriches the campus experience and strengthens our abilities to work together in the multifaceted world we live in.
Stephen Furlow
An associate director for community engagement and partnership at the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Stephen Furlow is advisor for the Black Student Union, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., and part of the CWRU Spirit Committee and Bicentennial Subcommittee.
1. What does your cultural heritage mean to you and how has it influenced your identity and experiences on campus?
Being Black in an unapologetic way means proceeding with love first but preparing for tough conversation due to ignorance at any turn. My cultural upbringing has allowed me to be flexible when working with peers and students, providing love and education foremost—especially in situations where bias or microaggressions may be present. I realize that lack of information can lead to unfair judgment and, for that reason, communication has become a key factor in finding success in my career and life.
2. How has your experience at CWRU shaped your commitment to making a difference in your community? What impact do you hope to create?
CWRU does amazing work fostering an environment where some of the best and brightest people go on to change the world. By being surrounded by that level of energy every day, I realize that I have to continue to grow and learn to not only better myself—but to remain a source of positive reinforcement for every student and staff member I encounter.
3. Why do you believe it’s important for institutions in higher education to celebrate and recognize various cultural heritages?
A quilt is nothing more than pieces of material seamed together to make a complete blanket of warmth and comfort. So when less materials are available to work with, when we invite less people into our hearts and spaces, we run the risk of contributing to an unfinished quilt, leaving us part of a cold and uncaring world. We are so much more when we are tethered together, in all of our uniqueness, beauty, and traditions. Recognizing our differences and celebrating our stories with the same energy that we look for similarities is an important part of strengthening us as individuals and as a collective.