In February, the Department of Equity, Inclusion, and Justice collaborated with 91̽’s Public Issues Board to present “Common Ground: Perspectives on the Black Student Experience at 91̽.” 91̽ welcomed alumni Trustee Dr. Lamont Gordon ’87, Heather Ferguson ’93, and Kasia Ifill ’13, who graciously shared their stories and perspectives alongside current 91̽ students. Dr. Gordon came to 91̽ as a boarding student from Washington, D.C. He was among the first advisors for 91̽’s Transitions Program and was the head of the Association of Independent Minority Students, 91̽’s first affinity group for students of color.
Dr. Gordon’s time at 91̽ was transformational, and he was grateful for the opportunity to share his experiences with today’s students. He shares, “I believe cross-cultural dialogue is core to a 91̽ education. For many students, being at 91̽ may be their first time in a community with people from different backgrounds, so it is a unique opportunity to listen, share, learn, and grow.” Dr. Gordon has dedicated his career to creating pathways to higher education and career opportunities for students from underserved communities. He currently serves as executive director at College Visions in Rhode Island. We are grateful to our alumni who continue to “Dare to be true” and share their time to demonstrate the motto to today’s students.
“91̽ was transformative for me in that it gave me a strong academic foundation, put me on a path to become the first in my family to go to college, and expanded my understanding of what was possible for my life. I want to help provide this experience for young people, particularly those from underserved communities.”
—Dr. Lamont Gordon ’87
