A00404 - Reflections on the May 31, 2025, Amherst College Black Alumni Memorial Service

 

As time marches on, I have begun to reflect on the Amherst College Black Alumni Memorial Service that was held on May 31, 2025.  The first and foremost reflection is that somehow God had enabled me to live long enough to make it to my 50th Year Reunion and that somehow God had led me to performing a memorial service for the now 215 individuals on the Memorial List.  In so many ways, my heart is filled with gratitude to be able to serve in this capacity and, perhaps, to bring some solace to those who attended. 

As always, I first give thanks to Katie DeBeer of the Alumni Office staff for facilitating access to the Gerald Penny Cultural Center for the services.  As I made clear during my welcome address, the Gerald Penny Cultural Center has a very special spiritual significance for me.  And being able to conduct the service there was a blessing.

I also thank Katie for printing out the latest edition of the Memorial List, a list that according to William Parker, Class of 1977, now contains some 215 names. I also commend Amina Merritt, Class of 1980, for her stirring libation ceremony accompanied by Bob Bellinger, Class of 1977, on a drum.  And of course, Junius Williams, Class of 1965, for his Game of Thrones influenced Memorial Address. All of this was memorable.  But what stunned me the most was to have Janice Denton in attendance along with her daughter, her son, and her grandson. After the ceremony, the elegantly attired Mrs. Denton graced Bill Parker, Bob Bellinger and me by having us join her in a photograph that should be one for the ages.  A very special moment indeed.

There is more to report, but I am getting sleepy now. We shall see what remains to be said tomorrow.

Peace, 

Everett "Skip" Jenkins
June 12, 2025



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