The Sister Thea Bowman LeadHERship Conference
The conference held in honor of Sister Thea Bowman is a significant gathering that pays tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of this remarkable woman. Sister Thea Bowman was a tireless advocate for racial justice, education, and the empowerment of marginalized communities. The conference brings together scholars, activists, educators, and community leaders who share a common commitment to advancing the causes Sister Thea held dear.
Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and shared experiences, participants engage in meaningful dialogue, reflection, and action planning. The conference serves as a platform to inspire and mobilize individuals to continue Sister Thea's work, fostering greater inclusivity, understanding, and social change in their respective communities and beyond.
The conference is divided into four strands: faith, culture and heritage, leadership, and social impact. Each presentation and workshop provide opportunities to learn more about the experiences of people like and unlike ourselves, issues impacting our world, connecting with alumnae in the fields of social justice, humanitarian work, and dive deep into a cultural experience and exchange.
Take a look at our Flickr Gallery from last year's conference.
Who was Sister Thea Bowman?
Sister Thea Bowman was the first African American Franciscan nun and the granddaughter of formerly enslaved people. Born Dec. 29, 1937, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Thea was reared as a Protestant until at age nine when she asked her parents if she could become a Catholic.
Gifted with a brilliant mind, beautiful voice and a dynamic personality, Sister Thea shared the message of God's love through a teaching career. After 16 years of teaching, at the elementary, secondary and university level, the bishop of Jackson, Mississippi, invited her to become the consultant for intercultural awareness.
In her role as consultant Sister Thea, an African American, gave presentations across the country; lively gatherings that combined singing, gospel preaching, prayer and storytelling. Her programs were directed to break down racial and cultural barriers. She encouraged people to communicate with one another so that they could understand other cultures and races.
Thea lived a full life. She fought evil, especially prejudice, suspicion, hatred and things that drive people apart. She fought for God and God's people until her death in 1990.
(From: Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration)
Culture Kitchen at Sister Thea Bowman LeadHERship Conference
Culture Kitchen is an engaging and student-run lunch session that celebrates the diverse food heritages within our community. This interactive event offers an opportunity for students to share and explore the culinary traditions, flavors, and stories behind different cultural cuisines. Led by passionate student organizers, Culture Kitchen provides a platform for students to showcase their heritage through the universal language of food. Participants not only enjoy a delicious meal but also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the cultural richness that exists within our school. Culture Kitchen promotes cultural exchange, fosters unity, and celebrates the power of food to connect us all.
