National Black History Month Q&A with Eric Stockard
Eric Stockard is in his third year as the Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Central Catholic High School. A 1975 graduate of CCHS, Eric works to engage alumni and friends in making donations to assist in providing tuition assistance, faculty salaries and improvements to the campus and facilities.
If you could pick any figure central to Black History to have dinner with who would it be?
Frederick Douglass. His February birthday, along with President Lincoln's birthday this month, is the reason why we celebrate Black History Month. I would love to have a conversation with Frederick Douglass on how he explained and supported his views on the intellectual capacity for Blacks to function independently as American citizens and the opportunity for Blacks to fight for their freedom during the Civil War.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month is important to me because it provides an opportunity to celebrate the contributions and achievements of African Americans to the progress and success of the United States. This also allows us to reflect on the sacrifices that many generations of African Americans had to endure for this progress to be recognized. Just like any other group or organization, Black History is not just for February. The study, celebration, and recognition of the African American culture should be celebrated each day.
What do you love about Central Catholic High School?
CCHS has demonstrated throughout the decades that it has stayed true to its mission in providing a quality Catholic education to the Toledo community. This mission embraces all individuals that seek a Catholic education, and in return, CCHS is a key contributor in developing students in becoming productive citizens for our community.