The Lincolnian

Issue date: 4/14/09 Section: Opinion

Dr. Cornel West poses with Mass Communications students during his visit to Lincoln University on April 9, 2009.

He came, he saw, and he conquered the hearts of many at Lincoln University.

Thanks to the School of Humanities and Graduate Studies and the Department of English and Mass Communications, Dr. Cornel West was the spring lecturer on Thursday, April 9 at the Mary Dod Brown Memorial Chapel.

West, who was introduced by adjunct faculty member Dr. Eric Watson, opened up his talk by reflecting on the importance of Lincoln's tradition.

He also mentioned some of the many Lincoln greats such as Langston Hughes, Thurgood Marshall, Roscoe Lee Brown, and Horace Mann Bond. As he spoke of them, his words were passionate because he wanted to let the students know that we are indeed privileged to attend the very school that many accomplished individuals also attended.

West has a very strong sense of humor and his speech generated echoes of laughter. However, his philosophies on life, race, politics and love was met by silence, as a packed crowd listened with open ears to hear what the Princeton professor had to say.

The sounds of "hmmm" or "mmmhmm," were heard when his words struck a familiar feeling or when he made a point that hit home. Deep theories and words of wisdom were brought out and plenty of attendees brought notebooks and pens to write them down.

Here are some quotes that he used:

"Do not be an echo, be a voice."

"How do you build on the best of the past?"

"Successful and greatness are NOT the same things. Never tell someone to be successful, tell them to be great. If you are great, then you already have success."

West was late arriving at the private reception because he marveled in spending time with the stduents. He was swarmed by awe struck students and staff who wanted to touch or briefly speak to this respected man. Once he finally made his way to the reception, he took photos with Mass Communications students, faculty and administrators. Tons of pictures were taken and plenty of personalized autographs were signed. He gave personal insight to those who asked and he was generous with his time.


When asked what his messageis for the students of Lincoln, he responded:

"WORK hard, PLAY hard, LOVE hard in the four years you have at Lincoln. Encourage others and learn how to love, because you know what happens when you don't have love… we GOT to get the word out! Get the word out Lincoln… get the word OUT!"

When I asked if he would consider speaking at the graduation for the Class of 2010, he said, "Absolutely, if ya'll will have me."

So, class of 2010, I think we need to try and make that happen, don't you agree?

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