On Father’s Day of 2015, I had the privilege of surprising my Dad with a visit to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights located in downtown Atlanta. I had been introduced to the Center during my attendance of its inaugural Power to Inspire Tribute Dinner held a month earlier –an opportunity I was afforded through my role as Scholarship Coordinator for the National Society of High School Scholars. I immediately became a self-prescribed advocate for the Center, informing my colleagues, family, and friends of the wonderment the Center provides in its merging of histories of human resilience with the promise of an improved future.

The Center, which opened in June of 2014, provided me with a memorable, interactive experience. Instead of leaving sullen following my further comprehension of historical contentions, I departed with excitement and a passionate craving to learn more and share my experiences with others. Whether participating in a sit-in simulation that employs 4-D technology or learning of the production chain of some of the world’s most valuable commodities, visitors of the Center are captivated by both past and present societal issues. The Center accomplishes a connectedness with humanity that allows visitors to “feel” the histories it presents.

For a few hours, I served as teacher and watched, in anticipation, as my Dad relished in the intersecting of the awareness, emotionality, and historical and cultural education offered by the Center. This year’s Father’s Day is undoubtedly one to remember.

Visit www.civilandhumanrights.org for more information about the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Scholarship Opportunity!

NSHSS and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR) will co-host an interactive symposium, “Finding Inspiration Inside: Recognizing Character, Realizing Potential,” for NSHSS high school and college scholars on Saturday, November 14, 2015.  Participants will explore character traits and leadership styles of Nobel Peace Laureates and reflect on their own potential to become social change agents, able to inspire and influence others. 

Students who wish to register to attend the symposium are required to submit an essay. Five $1,000 prizes, sponsored by The TAPO Institute, will be awarded for the winning student essays. Visit www.nshss.org/scholarships to apply.