An Evening of Unity and Leadership
BADA's Annual Summer Gathering on Martha's Vineyard
3 minute read
Courtney Hall
3 minute read
More than 100 alumni, guests, and friends gathered on Martha’s Vineyard for an evening marked by camaraderie, conversation, and celebration. Despite a surprise summer storm, the fourth annual BADA summer gathering was a testament to the enduring spirit and strength of Dartmouth’s Black alumni community.
This year, the event moved to a new venue, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, which provided the perfect backdrop for alumni from various generations and professional paths to reconnect, network, and engage in meaningful conversations. The gathering emphasized the importance of unity in Dartmouth’s Black community and showed a shared commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
The gathering took place during historic Illumination Week on Martha’s Vineyard, a cherished time when Black people from across the country come together to celebrate culture, achievements, and community. Known for its vibrant events aimed at Black professionals, the week offers a unique opportunity for connection and reflection. The setting provided a meaningful backdrop for BADA alumni to engage, celebrate, and contribute to the rich legacy of African Americans on Martha’s Vineyard.
Spotlight on Leadership and Vision
BADA president Maria Cole ’84 welcomed the crowd and reflected on the historical connection between those escaping slavery and the island’s Indigenous Wampanoag tribe. She also emphasized BADA’s vital role in the alumni community and the work ahead to ensure the best Dartmouth experience for all students.
President Beilock spoke to the attendees, sharing the College’s strategic vision for addressing the needs of its Black students and alumni. Her address focused on several initiatives, including expanding housing options to attract a more diverse student body and hiring a more diverse faculty. She took questions from the audience on the most pressing issues for the BADA members in attendance.
Several members of the Board of Trustees were also in attendance, including Board of Trustees Chair Elizabeth Cahill Lempres ’83 Th’84, Shonda Rhimes ’91, and Trustee Emerita Laurel J. Richie ’81.
A Meaningful Memento
This year’s parting gift was a poster by illustrator Eliana Rodgers that captured the golden hour of Illumination Night. It portrayed the Victorian cottages of Oak Bluffs, a historic Black enclave, aglow with colorful lanterns. The project was especially meaningful for Rodgers, whose father is a Dartmouth alum and BADA member William “Bill” Rodgers ’86.
Looking Ahead to 2025
The evening drew to a close with a palpable sense of optimism and anticipation for the future. The gathering not only achieved its goal of fostering connections and community but also inspired attendees to remain actively involved in advancing BADA’s mission. Many left the event with a renewed commitment to supporting Dartmouth’s Black community and a shared excitement for next year’s gathering on Martha’s Vineyard.
