Kevin R. Carreathers
Director, Student Development
Kevin Carreathers was raised in a family that valued education. He recognizes that his upbringing has played a significant role in how he views the world – and the importance of education in getting ahead. He has been involved in higher education at a variety of institutions, but with a focus on student affairs and diversity.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black history is very important to me. As the saying goes, “If you don’t know your history, you are prone to repeat it.” BHM is the one time of the year that we can place an emphasis on many of the positive contributions that African Americans and others have made throughout the ages.
Why is it important that we celebrate Black culture and history?
It is important because the history and culture is so significant and meaningful to the self-esteem and cultural development of African Americans. It is also a time to educate others about the many contributions that have been made on the world stage by people from the African diaspora and beyond – helping to shape this nation and the world.
Who has served as a Black role model for you?
My parents, mentors and those who fought for equal rights.
Describe the importance of pursuing education as you were growing up?
With both of my parents being educators, it was highly valued. It was not “Are you going to college?” but rather “What college do you want to attend?”
What challenges have you overcome?
I remember in high school I was on the student council. When I told my white football coach I needed to be excused from practice because we were going to a student council convention, he thought I was not telling the truth. I found out he had never known an African American student to ever be on a student council. In my professional career, I’ve had to overcome the challenges of educating campus communities about the importance and benefits of equity, diversity and inclusion.
How did you arrive at LSC-University Park?
After being out of the workforce for family reasons for several years, I was able to start as a part-time advisor. When I felt like I could take on a full-time job due to my family situation being more stable, I applied for my current position.
“Learning from the Past to Influence Our Future” is this year’s Black History Month theme. How does this theme relate to your life?
Knowing so much about the historical past of my ancestors provides me the strength and fortitude to deal with issues of today and in the future.
What is your “six-word story” in relation to your Black heritage?
You read. You learn. You act.