We'd like to share some of the opportunities that have helped to shape who we are, as Oprah Winfrey Scholars and '2022 Morehouse Men.
Virtual Reality Storytelling: The Capstone
Reflections on being an Oprah Scholar in 360-degree video. Watch on the Youtube App or in a headset. You can visit The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership to see the video. Video co-directed and co-produced by Mikki K. Harris and Emani Saucier. Editing by Emani Saucier. Audio by Raymond Oglesby. VR B-roll by Kennedy Edgerton. Grip: Jabari Lottie.
Portraits and Reflection Quotes
In my view, college is about exposure. Therefore, being a part of Morehouse and the Oprah Scholars Program, which give us resources to be exposed, is important because we can acquire a greater understanding what it is like to be in spaces that are different from our own. Once you have that understanding, I think you can better relate to others and hopefully be of service and make an impact.
Alexandre Hurley
I really value how this program encouraged us to get together. And to synthesize ideas with one another, even during the pandemic. After we had all adjusted to this online platform of schooling we were challenged to be of service in the online space. We also had to be creative in the way that we came up with solutions to real-world problems.
Jason Gill
Above: Portraits by Emani Saucier
Visit to the National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Legacy Museum, 2018 and 2022.
"The first time I went as a freshman, I feel was more of a culture shock, because I had to get through the idea that my ancestors went through this this trauma, and I have come to the realization that I need to play my part in making change in this world. The second visit as a senior allowed me to time to reflect on what I was seeing. Comparing myself from back then and to now, I see growth and see myself as a better person as a whole." Kofi Ford
Day with Oprah Winfrey on campus, 2019
"There's a phrase that she said that stuck with me to this day. When people say things sometimes I'll hold onto them. I gotta save this for later. And she said: the world will speak to you all the time and it's up to you to listen and actually tune into it. The world will whisper to you, but if you're not listening, the world's gonna keep reminding you, and they’ll throw bricks at you, but don't get it to the point where the world's throwing cars or heavy items." Jason Gill
Above, Oprah Winfrey with the her sons, the Oprah Scholars, October 2019. Photos by Mikki K. Harris
Conversations and More Conversations
Scholars meet weekly for conversations to check-in, and launched the "More Conversations Podcast," with alumnus Emani Saucier, who serves as Director, Producer and Editor of the series. Visit the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership Youtube channel to view.
Above, "More Conversations Podcast. Bottom right: Conversation with Andrew Young. Photos 1, 3-8 by Emani Saucier, Photo 2 by Mikki K. Harris
"I met with Kevin Booker, whose story exemplified the power of perseverance. I am deeply grateful for the platform our podcast provides, so that we may share lessons to any listener that could benefit from the discussion," Johari Dean-Lindsey
Annual "Day of Service"
The 2022 Day of Service was at CreateATL, a community space that brings entrepreneurs and community together to create. Scholars donated their time to clear and prep the space for the community, and listened to a panel on community partnerships, growth mindset and servant leadership.
Above, Scholars during the Day of Service at CreateATL. Photos by Mikki K. Harris
Tutoring with Community Partners
Scholars have tutored students at partner schools that include: Booker T. Washington, Herman J. Russell West End Academy, and At-Promise Youth and Community Centers.
Above, Tutoring at Herman J. Russell West End Academy. Photos by Mikki K. Harris
South Africa Experience
"College is about exposure, and being in a space like Morehouse and really with this program, gives us resources to be exposed. If you do not know anything about food insecurity or voter suppression or what's going on in a place like South Africa, we're in a space that's helping us understand to some extent what it's like to be in those spaces. And when you have that understanding, I think you can better relate to folks and also hopefully be of service and make an impact." Alexandre Hurley
Thank you for your time, and your commitment to the Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program. We encourage you to spend more time with our Virtual Reality discussion, our “More Conversations” podcast, and our profiles on Instagram.
Some of the creative content is available for licensing for educational purposes. If there are images or footage you are interested in for publication, please contact AYCGL, Emani Saucier or Mikki K. Harris.
Professor Harris is the advisor for the Senior Oprah Winfrey Scholars, and directed the Virtual Reality film and capstone project. Emani Saucier is the advisor, director, producer and editor of the More Conversations podcast series, and worked as DoP and editor on the VR film.
Credits:
© Mikki K. Harris