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—then stay tuned to The Daily for more later this month.
Answers have been edited for clarity for length.
Paris Pryor-Banks
A program manager for the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Paris Pryor-Banks participates in the DAWN Alzheimer’s Research Study, an international, multi-site initiative which seeks to build a resource that greatly expands Alzheimer’s disease genetic studies in underrepresented groups.
1. What does your cultural heritage mean to you and how has it influenced your identity and experiences on campus?
As an African American woman, I always felt that I had to work twice as hard to obtain success. I have been in situations where I have felt overlooked and unappreciated professionally. When I came to CWRU in 2022, I immediately felt supported, included, and empowered. In my role, I have been presented with meaningful opportunities, my contributions have been recognized, my voice is heard, and my presence is appreciated. Since starting at CWRU, I have found that I can still be proud to be an African American woman, but I no longer need to lead with that.
2. How has your experience at CWRU shaped your commitment to making a difference in your community? What impact do you hope to create?
Being employed at CWRU has shown me that health education is a priority, especially in marginalized communities. When I am working in these communities, it is apparent that there are significant disparities in health outcomes. There is still a lot of work to do in Cleveland and it requires a group effort. This is why I would like to provide health education services in collaboration with stakeholders to provide multiple communities across Cleveland the opportunity for a better outlook on health. Despite backgrounds, everyone deserves the chance to achieve their best health.
3. Why do you think it’s important for institutions like CWRU to celebrate and recognize various cultural heritages?
It is essential to celebrate our cultural backgrounds to learn from others, collaborate, reflect, and relate with one another to promote inclusivity and make [people] feel seen, respected, and appreciated. These elements aid in institutions creating cross-cultural understandings and help build a stronger community.
Sharese Hayes
At the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, Sharese Hayes serves as an admissions coordinator. In addition to recruiting top students, she aims to facilitate dialogues that broaden perspectives and promote understanding.
1. What does your cultural heritage mean to you and how has it influenced your identity and experiences on campus?
As a Cleveland native and African American woman, my cultural heritage is integral to my identity. It has instilled in me a commitment to seek improvement for myself and my community. The presence of supportive resource groups at CWRU affirms my decision to be part of this institution.
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 resolve to make a positive impact in my community. I actively participate in campus events that highlight diverse voices and experiences. Additionally, I support initiatives that ensure all individuals feel valued and heard. While I can’t attend every event, I strive to be present at as many as possible. I hope to inspire others and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable environment.
3. Why do you believe it’s important for institutions in higher education to celebrate and recognize various cultural heritages?
It enriches the learning environment and challenges us to embrace different perspectives. I am confident that celebrating diversity is essential for growth and understanding.
Brian Matthews
An advisor and assistant dean of the Undergraduate Advising Support Office, Brian Matthews has served the CWRU community for nearly a decade and has been involved with the Black Faculty and Staff Resource Group, Career Center, and Diversity 360.
1. What does your cultural heritage mean to you and how has it influenced your identity and experiences on campus?
As a first-generation student, after graduation I chose positions that would allow me to pay it forward and make a difference in the lives of others. My focus has helped students build confidence, productively navigate the college journey and strive toward success, however they define it.
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 challenged me to think in different ways as I approach my responsibilities and engage with students. I hope to build on student strengths, challenge them to think outside of their comfort zones and create new opportunities for future successes.
3. Why do you believe it’s important for institutions in higher education to celebrate and recognize various cultural heritages?
One of the responsibilities of higher education is to instill future generations with the knowledge, compassion and ability to proactively engage with individuals and institutions to find common ground. And, within this responsibility is embracing different perspectives, cultures and beliefs. CWRU celebrates diversity across our campus and I look forward to its continuing support.