RADFORD -- Radford University’s celebration of Black History Month begins Friday, Feb. 1, with a kick-off reception from 4 - 6 p.m. in the Pocahontas Lounge. Come out and enjoy the company of RU friends -- old and new -- before the Step Show. It promises to be an exciting weekend on campus as Black History Month opening events coincide with RU’s Homecoming festivities. Alumni will be on campus and are invited along with the public to celebrate the history and achievements of African Americans.

Special weekend events include:

Friday, Feb. 1

• “Taking it Back,” NPHC Step Show and After-Party, 7 p.m., Preston Hall

Saturday, Feb. 2

• RU’s Homecoming 2008 – For the full schedule of events, visit www.radford.edu/~alumni/homecoming/index.html
• Women’s Basketball vs. UNC Ashville, 3 p.m., Dedmon Center
• Men’s Basketball vs. Liberty, 7 p.m., Dedmon Center        

This year’s theme, “Honoring our past, embracing our present, and building our future,” highlights the many contributions made by African-Americans to society. Throughout February there will be lectures and panel discussions, performances, movies, and networking and social activities.

Don’t miss the Gospel Extravaganza on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2 p.m. in Preston Auditorium. Gospel musicians from Virginia and North Carolina are taking it back to “the old time way” with spirited performances.

New in 2008 is the Harlem Renaissance, sponsored by the NAACP and AREUHYPE. It’s a return to the roaring 20’s with a special evening sure to please on Thursday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m. in the Bonnie Food Court.

The month-long celebration concludes on Thursday, Feb. 28, with Showtime at the Bonnie from 6- 7 p.m, in the Bonnie Auditorium and the African American History Bowl at 7 p.m. in the Bonnie Food Court. There will be free food and great fun for everyone.

For the full calendar of Black History Month events, visit  www.radford.edu/diverse.

Numerous RU student organizations and university offices collaborated to deliver this year’s Black History Month programs and events. To learn more, please contact the Office of Multicultural and International Student Services at (540) 831-5765 or email diverse@radford.edu