Discussion on Intellectual Sovereignty Class of 2028

 

The Ethel Waddell Githii Honors Program at Spelman College provides an intellectually enriching environment that fosters mutual respect among peers and supports the individual aspirations of its members toward academic excellence. A key component of this program is the cultivation of “habits of mind,” which are practices designed to enhance personal development and instill curious thinking that influences how we engage in various academic contexts. 

During my time in the Honors Program, I had the opportunity to connect with inspiring faculty members who serve as role models, promoting independent thinking and the pursuit of personal excellence–something that may not always be prevalent in other interactions on campus. One notable connection I made was with Dr. Robert Edwards. His honors English course in my first semester reignited my passion for literature, allowing me to explore the intricate nuances within texts that reflect contemporary society. I was fortunate to maintain my relationship with Dr. Edwards throughout my second semester and into the summer leading into this sophomore year. This connection proved invaluable as I pursued my Certified Nursing Assistant licensure; Dr. Edwards graciously provided the recommendation letter that facilitated my entry into the program and ultimately helped me achieve this important credential. 

My appreciation for literature, especially for the works of Toni Morrison, led me to attend a birthday celebration for her hosted by the honors program. This event delved into Morrison’s novel “Jazz,” exploring its deep connections to jazz music. The incorporation of live jazz revealed to me the structural parallels between the genre and Morrison’s narrative, adding a layer of jubilance that reflects the cultural significance of jazz in both literature and in the arts. 

Additionally, my longstanding interest in visual and performing arts has motivated me to pursue a minor in this field, further enriching my educational experience even though it may not directly align with my career path. My involvement in the Spelman College Glee Club since my first semester has allowed me to flourish alongside fellow students from the honors program who also decided to pursue their interest in the arts. This avenue of self-expression has not only deepened my spiritual connection but has also fostered meaningful relationships with my honors and Spelman sisters in general through music. I have gained insight into the complexities of music beyond mere auditory appreciation, which has been a rewarding aspect of my journey.

Through my participation in various activities, including study abroad and organizations such as NCNW and NAACP, I have developed a nuanced understanding of the world and the role I play within it. Engaging with diverse perspectives from both faculty and fellow students has enriched my own ideas and inspired me to embrace cultural expression in its many forms. I recognize that intellectual expression varies among individuals and communities, and I have chosen to learn from this diversity rather than be dismissive or judgmental.

It is essential to embody integral leadership and demonstrate examples of intellectual sovereignty within the honor program, extending beyond our interactions with faculty in the classroom. This ensures that all members, especially those in leadership, can represent their unique understandings without undermining others based on misinterpretations as that is not a true understanding of what the honors program stands on. Intellectual sovereignty is a personal journey shaped by our collective experiences and the critical thinking we apply in expressing ourselves. The honors program should serve as a nurturing sisterhood, fostering the exchange of ideas that empower each member to contribute their unique voice in academic and artistic spaces.

Included photos (Study Abroad in Ghana: Service Teaching Children)

Reflection Questions:

How do you think you are an embodiment of intellectual sovereignty? 

What guidelines would you use to judge someone's intellectual sovereignty off of first meeting them? How does that relate back to using intellectual practice, or does it not? 

In what ways do you show your intellectualism outside of the honors program?

by Janiah Collier