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Batten Honors College Scholars Welcome Celebrated Author Colson Whitehead
An exclusive gathering on campus provided a blend of intellectual discourse and cultural enrichment
University News | November 15, 2023
Virginia Wesleyan University's Batten Honors College recently hosted a remarkable event, featuring the celebrated author Colson Whitehead, known for his Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award-winning works such as "The Underground Railroad" and "The Nickel Boys." This exclusive gathering, held in the Joan P. Brock Room of Brock Commons on the VWU campus, was a blend of intellectual discourse and cultural enrichment.
The event was spearheaded by VWU President Dr. Scott D. Miller, BHC Dean Travis Malone, and Norfolk Forum President Jason Davis. They welcomed Whitehead for an engaging dinner and discussion, setting the stage for his later address at The Norfolk Forum that same evening at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk.
Whitehead, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, has a rich portfolio that includes eight novels and a collection of essays, The Colossus of New York. His literary prowess earned him the title of New York’s 11th State Author in 2018. He is one of only four authors to ever win two Pulitzer Prizes, cementing his place as a significant contemporary literary figure.
This event highlighted the ongoing legacy of The Norfolk Forum, established during the Great Depression. Its origin traces back to a group of citizens keen on understanding the major affairs of their time. The Forum has since become a celebrated platform, featuring a range of influential figures from heads of state to cultural icons, all contributing to a rich tapestry of intellectual and cultural discourse.
The Norfolk Forum's history is a testament to its enduring appeal and relevance. From its modest beginnings with an enrollment booth in a downtown department store to hosting luminaries such as Margaret Thatcher and Alex Haley, the Forum has consistently provided a stage for diverse voices and perspectives.
The Batten Honors College, on its part, is dedicated to nurturing high-achieving students, preparing them as strategic-thinking, globally-aware citizens committed to societal betterment. With a substantial endowment and a selective enrollment policy, the College emphasizes developing problem-solving skills and an ethical mindset in its scholars.
The collaboration between BHC and The Norfolk Forum for this event with Colson Whitehead epitomizes a commitment to fostering intellectual growth and cultural appreciation, reflecting the institutions' shared values and aspirations for their communities and beyond.