Each year, student interns at the Griot Institute expand and introduce research projects that highlight unique aspects of the African Diaspora at Bucknell. This semester, I returned to the Griot Institute with the aim of showcasing the multifaceted experiences of Black engineers at Bucknell. Together with Holiness Kerandi, I initiated the “Black Engineers Experience” project. Our vision is to create a digital collection of personal narratives that are easily accessible to all. Through this, we hope to provide incoming students with a transparent and nuanced understanding of what being a Black engineer at Bucknell might entail. While these experiences vary greatly, having relatable—or even contrasting stories can offer reassurance and insight.
Progress So Far
With support from Dr. Cymone Fourshey and Michelle Lauver, we reached out to former faculty members Dr. Phillip Asare and Dr. Christopher Dancy via email to learn about their experiences as Black faculty in Bucknell’s College of Engineering. We conducted a Zoom interview with Dr. Phillip Asare, who provided valuable insights into DEI efforts at Bucknell and the perception of Black faculty within academic spaces. Additionally, we reviewed previous research and interviews conducted by scholars focusing on students and faculty in engineering. This foundational work has been crucial for our project. Recently, we collaborated with Diane Jackaki to create a WordPress site for the Black Engineers Experience. However, my limited expertise in web design and development has been a challenge. With guidance from faculty members like Claire Cahoon, I’m confident we can build a visually engaging and user-friendly website.
Future Plans
In the months ahead, I aim to be more intentional about the project’s growth, driven in part by my own questions about what it means to be a Black engineer. Partnering with organizations like Multicultural Student Services, NSBE, and ESA will allow us to collect a diverse range of stories and experiences. I also plan to take a more personal approach by interviewing both students and faculty. Using the Audio Booth or Podcast Studio in MEDIALAB+, we can create engaging media content from these interviews. Ultimately, my goal is to expand the archive and make it a resource that is accessible and impactful for the public.