On Monday, June 22, students from the Bethlehem Central High School class of 2026 who are members of the student organization ALANA (African, Latinx, Asian, Native American & Allies) took part in ALANA’s seventh annual Sankofa celebration.
ALANA is a student alliance established in 1998 by retired school counselor Dr. Lisa Carr to promote cultural awareness and inclusion. Members of ALANA provide leadership, community service and advocacy on important issues within the school community throughout the school year.
Introduced in 2020, the rite of Sankofa celebrates an important transition for ALANA seniors. Dr. Carr, who brought Sankofa to BC, was present for this year’s celebration, joining several high school teachers and staff at the celebration. Current ALANA faculty advisors Preya Krishna-Kennedy and Chynna Smith organized and hosted this year’s event.
The evening opened with a reading of the poem Desiderata by Max Ehrmann. The poetry reading, by senior Bhavya Kakarala, was followed by reflections on the meaning of Sankofa, an Akan concept from Ghana that means “go back and get it.” The symbol serves as a reminder that understanding and honoring the past helps to build a stronger future.
Former ALANA member and rising college sophomore Joy Dzigba encouraged the graduating seniors to carry forward the lessons of kindness, leadership, and cultural pride they have gained through their educational journeys. Dzigba was one of several BC and ALANA alumni to return to the school to celebrate this year’s graduates.
The ceremony also featured remarks from community advocate and philanthropist Charles Touhey. Touhey shared the legacy of his late wife and civil rights leader Alice Green, and encouraged students to use their voices to create positive change in their communities.
The highlight of the Sankofa is a “donning ceremony” where each senior is presented with a colorful “kente” stole they will wear with their cap and gown at their graduation ceremony on June 27. Kente is known worldwide as a representation of West African culture, featuring unique colors and patterns. At Sankofa, a special family member or trusted friend places the kente stole on the graduate, and each guest is encouraged to express what the student means to them and to their families.
This year’s ALANA graduates are:
- Avani Dixit
- Katie Huang
- Bhavya Kakarala
- Sana Mann
- Jonathan Radcliffe
- Paisley Sims
- Lulua Umar
- Mateo Winans
Congratulations to all!