Howard University Students Leave Lasting Impact on Milwaukee Community

MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin (February 14, 2024) - Howard University's Alternative Spring Break (HUASB) program, marking its 30th anniversary of unwavering service, has been a beacon of commitment towards serving communities in need and molding students into the next generation of servant leaders. Celebrated for involving students in meaningful service projects, HUASB aims to develop servant leaders ready to make a difference. For more information, visit the HUASB website at chapel.howard.edu/huasb.

As part of its yearly dedication to public service, Howard University students embark on a mission to spread community service across 25 cities worldwide. Over the past seven years, more than 45 students have selected the Holy Redeemer Institutional Church of God in Christ in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as their service site. This year, an impressive group of 60 students will journey to Milwaukee with a mission to inspire and nurture a collective appreciation for the historical and cultural importance of preserving the artistic treasures found on the Holy Redeemer campus.

In previous years, Howard University students have contributed by tutoring local Milwaukee children. This year, they are expanding their efforts by chronicling the history of the Institute for the Preservation of African American Music and Arts (IPAMA). They plan to create a video and photographic collection that documents the artifacts, paintings, collectibles, musical items, and more at both IPAMA locations and the Mother Kathryn Daniels Conference Center (MKDCC). The aim is to compile a complete, factual record that verifies the authenticity of each piece, offering a valuable academic and cultural resource.

The MKDCC, spanning 147,000 square feet, serves multiple purposes, including education, recreation, administration, and hosting community conferences. It accommodates two schools, Holy Redeemer’s executive offices, and Wisconsin's largest Boys and Girls Club. The complex has become a treasure trove of rare items over the past two decades, showcasing memorabilia from African American sports legends and original Negro League Baseball paraphernalia, alongside a vast collection of authentic African art.

IPAMA is home to hundreds of historical artifacts collected from around the world, featuring works by nationally acclaimed artists like Charly “Carlos” Palmer, a Milwaukee-raised Grammy-winning illustrator, and David Anderson, whose work honors Bishop Daniels’ legacy. The campus has also been adorned by the sculptures of award-winning artist Aaron Paskins.

In conclusion, Howard University's commitment to Milwaukee goes beyond conventional community service. By focusing on the preservation of Black Art and culture, the university not only enriches the local community but also leaves a lasting legacy of social and cultural enrichment nationwide. The project underscores the importance of preserving culture with historical significance, advancing opportunities for talented individuals and enriching the lives of those who receive it. Howard University truly leaves Milwaukee with a lasting legacy.

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