Howard Payne University celebrated Black History Month during a Chapel service held Wednesday morning.

Participants comprised of members of HPU’s African-American Alumni Association and current HPU students, read stories and shared facts about black historical figures. Additionally, the participants performed several songs and led the audience in singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” also known as the Negro National Anthem.

The program is written and directed each year by Wilbert Rogers ’75. Gladys Murray ’79 serves as the assistant coordinator and technical specialist.

“Mr. Rogers and Mrs. Murray put a tremendous amount of effort into the program each year, and we greatly appreciate their leadership,” said Dr. Magen Bunyard, vice president for student life and dean of students. “We’re honored to come together as a university to celebrate Black History Month.”

Pictured above chapel participants, led by HPU senior Victoria Malone at the podium, perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Negro National Anthem.