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M. Denise Lovett, PhD

Coordinator, Africana Studies 

Associate Professor of Psychological Science

 

Know whence you came.  If you know whence you came, there really is no limit to where you can go.

                              - James Baldwin, “The Fire Next Time”

The quote by James Baldwin is the guiding principle for the Africana Studies Program at Valdosta State University. Established in 1996, our program encompasses an interdisciplinary approach to the study of the lived experiences of people of African descent in the United States and globally. As such, it uses the multidimensional lens of history, politics, economics, psychology, sociology, religion, and creative production and renders an examination of the intellectual origins of Africana populations as well as current scholarly contributions.  Furthermore, our program, as the only Africana Studies program in south Georgia, is dedicated to advancing diversity both on our campus and throughout the region.

Your opportunities for success are limitless when you know your cultural past and present. Sankofa is a West African word that means “looking back in order to move forward.” Thus, the Sankofa bird is the symbol of our program. Exploring contributions of African-descended people within disciplines in Humanities and Social Sciences will give you a compass for your next steps in life’s journey. 

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For more information about our minor program requirements, you’re welcome to explore the links on this page. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us.

Sincerely,

Africana Studies Program
1107 Nevins Hall
Valdosta State University
Valdosta, Georgia 31698
Phone: 229.249.4843
E-mail: afams@valdosta.edu