The Pointer UW-Stevens Point Student Newspaper
The Black Student Union welcomed Mary Shepard, “Queen of Jook,” as the guest speaker for their annual Soul Food Dinner on Feb. 28.
Crystal John, a UW-Whitewater senior public policy and administration major, drove two hours for this event.
She said, “There should have been more people here to listen to her speak, but I’m glad I had the opportunity.”
Shepard walked onto the stage with a smooth cane and a glittering tiara, a contrast which perfectly described her personality. She spoke earnestly and shared experiences from her life.
For 34 years, Shepard owned the famous blues club, Club Ebony, in Indianola, Miss. She hosted recognized artists, such as BB King, Ike and Tina Turner, Ray Charles, Albert King and Count Basie. Later, Shepard helped to establish the multi-million dollar BB King Museum and Delta Interpretative Center, and is known for being the driving force behind the BB King Homecoming Concert, convincing the late blues legend to return home annually and perform.
Shepard explained her success. She said, “I’ve learned to work with artists. I’ve learned to get to their hearts.”
Indeed, she seemed to touch the hearts of audience members.
Cornealious Cook, senior sociology and race and ethnic studies major, also made the drive from UW-Whitewater for the Soul Food Dinner.
He said, “I would love to sit down and listen to her stories because how she talked and her southern twang reminded me of my grandma.”
Though humble, Shepard has appeared in numerous documentaries and magazines, has a street named after her, and has authored an autobiography.
In 2007, the governor of Mississippi declared Apr. 6 “Mary Francis Shepard Day” to honor her legacy.
Nyanna Dixon, president of the Black Student Union, is proud of the impact her group has been able to make on the UWSP community.
Regarding the dinner, she said, “We love educating people about our culture. This is a family vibe you will find at family gatherings.”
Ta Xiong
Contributor
Txion355@uwsp.edu
