Students took an unforgettable journey Feb. 14–16 through the heart of New Orleans during this year’s annual BCC Black History Immersion Excursion, led by Vanderbilt’s Bishop Joseph Johnson Black Cultural Center. The trip offered them an immersive exploration of the city’s deep-rooted history, culture and contributions.
The multiday experience included a hands-on cooking demonstration at the New Orleans School of Cooking, where students learned the historical significance of Creole and Cajun cuisine. Participants also visited the Whitney Plantation, gaining a powerful perspective on the lives of enslaved people through shared accounts and preserved historical sites.
A guided tour of the French Quarter highlighted the influence of Black New Orleanians, from the city’s early foundations to its role as a cultural epicenter of music, art and activism. The group also experienced the Steamboat Natchez dinner cruise where they learned about the significance of the Mississippi River for the city of New Orleans and the southern region of the United States.
“The BCC Black History Immersion Excursion was truly a high-impact experience,” Director of the Black Cultural Center ReChard Peel said. “From the deep historical context of Hurricane Katrina that we experienced during the Urban City Tour to the rich culinary experience we had at the New Orleans School of Cooking, we felt immersed in New Orleans. It was an exciting opportunity that showcased the diverse tapestry of experience that is Black culture in America, and I am excited to continue to explore other parts of this in future excursions.”
The BCC’s annual Immersion Excursion trip continues to serve as a transformative opportunity for students to connect with Black heritage through experiential learning, reinforcing Vanderbilt’s commitment to education and cultural exploration.
For more information on upcoming BCC events and programs, visit vanderbilt.edu/bcc.
