Retracing the Steps of 1619 Ancestors

Friday, August 23, 2019

Retracing the Steps of 1619 Ancestors

Snapshot from USA Today feature story. Image of Dr Tucker walking through a doorway. Ocean view in horizon. Text: 1619 Search for Answers. The long road home

Dr. Wanda Tucker, Rio Salado College Faculty Chair for Psychology, Philosophy, and Religious Studies and Faculty Senate President, traveled to Luanda, Angola in Central Africa to embark upon a historical and life-changing journey.

Dr. Tucker climbing along a hillside during her visit to Angola

As a descendant of the first generation of Africans to arrive at Point Comfort (Hampton), VA on August 20, 1619, Dr. Tucker was inspired to trace the steps of her ancestors and travel the same paths they walked before coming to the British Colony on the San Juan Bautista slave ship.

This historical journey was documented and featured in a story by USA Today. Dr. Tucker also shared her story in an interview with KJZZ.

Dr. Tucker’s visit to Angola and featured story in USA Today commemorates the 400-year anniversary of the first Africans’ arrival to the United States.

Thank you, Dr. Tucker, for making the journey and sharing your experiences with us.

Contributed by Rio Salado Executive Special Assistant Office of the President Jackie Johnson, MPA

About Rio Salado College

Rio Salado College is one of ten Maricopa Community Colleges and one of the largest online public community colleges in the nation, serving nearly 53,000 students annually with nearly 28,000 online in 50 states and internationally. Founded in 1978 and headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, Rio Salado offers 600+ online classes, 100+ degree and certificate programsand general education courses. The college also provides support for dual enrollment, military and incarcerated students and serves as one of the largest providers of adult basic education in Arizona.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO/AA institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District.

The Maricopa County Community College District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit http://www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.

Friday, August 23, 2019

Retracing the Steps of 1619 Ancestors

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