Black History Month

RCC Seal in red, yellow and green

Happy Black History Month!

Black Excellence: 100 Years of acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of African Americans

February 1926 Dr. Carter Woodson “Father of Black History” launched Negro History Week. Dr. Woodson’s creation of Negro History Week was to bring attention to African Americans and their impact and influence on American History. The observance of Negro History Week grew in popularity and President Gerald R. Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976 during the United States Bicentennial.

This February, we continue to celebrate Black History Month with the theme “Black Excellence” by honoring heritage, history, culture, leaders and more. Please join us for campus-wide events, discussions and celebrations.

2026 Black History Month Events

Click on the event title for location and additional information.

Resources and Links

Haverstraw:

  • Big Daddy’s Home Plate BBQ
  • La Talaye

Nyack:

  • Vibes Cafe
  • Main Essentials
  • Black Parakeetz Paint, Swig & Sing!

Spring Valley:

  • Ebenezer Bakery
  • La Baguette d’Or Bakery
  • Fancy Buffet
  • Island Spice Restaurant
  • Bon Accueil Restaurant
  • Caribreeze Vegan Delight
  • Fire Pot Restaurant
  • Marantha Restaurant
  • Restaurant Tropical Plus
  • Guys Spot

Stony Point:

  • It’s Coffee
  • Rock’s Kitchen

West Haverstraw:

  • Off The Hook

2026 Black History Month
Planning Committee Co-Chairs

Allegrah Abrahams
Allegrah Abrahams
Sabrina Charles-Pierre
Sabrina Charles-Pierre
Dr. Bert Shillingford
Dr. Bert Shillingford

2026 Black History Month
Planning Committee Members

Peter Fiore
Sha-Tanna Gray
Dr. David Lucander
Eileen MacAvery
Patricia Maloney-Titland
Peter Marino
Dr. Shamika Mitchell
Dr. Meghan Nolan
Felicity Popovich
George Repic
Dr. Sugeily Rodriguez
Susanna Santiago
Grant Valentine