It was an opportunity to share my African-American cultural heritage.

" I thought it was important for Shades of Brown to exist on campus because it was an opportunity to share my African-American cultural heritage on campus in a way that was fun, stress-releasing, physically challenging, and creatively stimulating. One of the few activities that was honestly good for the mind, body, and soul. Because the campus responded positively toward our performances, it just felt good to be a part of Shades of Brown and know that we were a part of something that was not only serving us but good for the campus too. And I honestly believe that the campus didnt just receive 'black' entertainment, but whether they wanted it or not, there were being fed some Black cultural history, too. Sneaky isn't it? Black history all year round...."

-Phia Salter, Class of 2005