As CEE students, staff, and faculty enjoyed their lunch alongside other campus and community guests, Department Head Ana Barros shared opening remarks and introduced the chancellor.

Chancellor Jones shared his personal experiences as an African American, how he had come from a family of sharecroppers, and that his parents had not been able to pursue their education beyond middle school. Jones revealed his deep appreciation for his parent's bravery and commitment to furthering his education, saying that he would not be here today without their dedication and advocacy for his education.

He also emphasized the magnitude of the contributions African Americans have made to the university, including William Walter Smith. A CEE alumnus, Smith became the first African American graduate of the University of Illinois in 1900. Smith earned an A.B. and B.S. in Literature and Arts, along with a professional degree in Civil Engineering. 

During his time at Illinois, Smith was editor-in-chief of the weekly Illini from 1899-1900, now The Daily Illini. According to University records, Smith also “proposed to the University President that there be a bookstore on the corner of Wright and Green Streets so students traveling along the ‘Illini Trail’ shortcut could access materials and supplies more easily.”  

Jones remarked that he had a photo of Smith in his office, and that he often reflected on the impact Smith has made on the university, paving the way for Jones' own career at Illinois. 

With his time at the university coming to an end later this summer, as he transitions to what he calls the "last chapter" of his career as the next president at the University of Washington, the chancellor reflected on his tenure at Illinois.

Jones conveyed bittersweet emotions; while feeling pride in all that has been accomplished at Illinois since he arrived in 2016, he also recognized the difficulties of leaving at a time when he knows more progress can be made to help bring people together of all different backgrounds, and to improve equitable access to education across all races and incomes, building on programs like Illinois Commitment.

The chancellor's remarks also touched on the importance of events like these in moving forward that progress, and how valuable out-of-the-classroom educational experiences and conversations are to facilitating appreciation of cultural differences, contributions and challenges, but also the discovery of personal and cultural commonalities. 

Student leaders also spoke at the event. Grant Linsday, President of EMBRACE, and Saliyah As-Salaam, Secretary of the NSBE at Illinois, described their gratitude for student organizations and the support they provide.

As they shared their experiences, a common theme emerged: some of the most difficult moments students, and people, face are those moments when they feel alone, that they don't belong in a group or situation because they are different, or that they are alone or unique in their struggles. Organizations like NSBE and EMBRACE afford students the knowledge that they are never alone, give them support to find success, and empower them to create connections across the campus community.

Bishop, Brown, and Hedrick gave their closing remarks, echoing these thoughts along with those of Chancellor Jones, underscoring the importance of opportunity, support, and understanding in communities. Their comments illustrated how events like this one not only bring appreciation for other cultures and experiences, but also highlighted that the more we discuss and value cultural differences, the more similarities and shared experiences can emerge. Collaboration across communities provides the opportunity for the growth of empathy and understanding of the interconnectedness of our common goals and struggles. The message that seemed to resonate throughout the luncheon: in valuing, empowering, and collaborating with others, we strengthen our collective communities.

As the event drew to a close, the trio began the hard work of cleaning up alongside other CEE staff and student volunteers, but their smiles only brightened as they absorbed the success of the day. 

"It’s been a labor of joy to see other excited about this event unfolding," Bishop shared.

They are looking forward to next year's luncheon, and how to grow the event based the tremendous positive response they received.  As they plan ahead, they continue to explore new opportunities to celebrate the accomplishments that Black engineers and students have made on this university and throughout the world, while inspiring communities to find strength and connections in their differences.