Professor Gerald G. Jackson’s aim is to present an Africentric model that any culturally accomplished teacher and counselor can use to encourage self and group discovery, and provide knowledge of personal triumphs and group accomplishments. His mosaic, based upon an Africentric world view, Africana Studies discipline, and Africana Helping theory is supported by much empirical evidence. This evidence is drawn from inside and outside classroom learning exercises, student reports, scholar and professional led lectures, discussions and educational tours. Overall, Cornell Professor Jackson’s Africentric paradigm is a corollary of a diunital cultural approach. This approach is a groundbreaking multicultural and pluralistic model for the application of Africentric helping to the educational sphere.

While the mode varies, the greater numbers of compositions compiled here are biographies of ordinary and extraordinary African Americans. These essays are enhanced by the descriptions of the experiences that students had in researching and writing these culturally affi rming personal histories. In addition, this work includes introspective depictions of Africentric educational and cultural events or cultural learning. Their explorations pushed the students to becoming more aware of not only African American culture, but also of its impact on personal growth and productive group identities. A rarely seen educational innovation, this book will no doubt be applauded by educators and mental health professionals throughout our society.

Gerald Jackson Press Release (PDF).