Ruth J. Simmons Center for the Study of Slavery and Justice

2023 Annual Report Update: Student Enrichment Program

In Spring 2023, the Simmons Center welcomed three Providence high school students to its Student Enrichment program, supporting youth-led social justice projects. From African American fashion to youth activism and Ethnic Studies in medicine, students explored local history, conducted research, and engaged with community partners.

Credit: Kiku Langford McDonald

In the spring of 2023, the Simmons Center enrolled three Providence high school students to its Student Enrichment program to develop and implement community-based projects deeply rooted in social justice. Students have built knowledge of local Black and Indigenous history, gained hands-on research experience, and conducted interviews with community partners. This program has allowed us to grow our relationships with visiting school communities and support student work at the intersection of education and activism. Our first student, Hafsat, is a 10th grader from the MET School who is currently interested in creating a project about the history of African American fashion. She has enjoyed participating in the Slavery & Legacy Walking Tours and is practicing to lead one for her advisor soon. Our second student, Demi, is an 11th grader from Classical High School who is currently researching youth activism in Providence for her junior research seminar. She is working on a 10–12 page research paper that involves both library research and interviews with  community members with the support of our education team. Our third student, Emily, is a 12th grader from Classical High School researching Ethnic Studies implementation in medical school curricula.

Nada Samih-Rotondo
Manager of Public Education Initiatives and Community Outreach

2022-2023 Education Workshops