Today, we continue with Black History Month Spotlights featuring members of the Athletes of Color Coalition highlighting what the month means to them and how learning about their history has helped shape them into the person they are today.  

Today's feature athlete is Johnny Melancon, a sophomore midfielder from Baltimore, Maryland on the men's soccer team by way of The Gilman School.

What can you do on a small scale to affect change?
Something that I try to do around campus is to promote a great atmosphere for people of color. Whether that is just saying hi or giving a smile to someone, or cheering them on in their sports games, I just try and make someone else a little bit happier that day. It does not take a lot of effort but can have a lot of impact.  

What is a story that have you learned during Black History Month that has truly inspired you?
An inspirational story that I have learned during black history month is the story of Oseola Mcarty. I had always known the name, but I was not so familiar with her story. She was an African American housekeeper from Mississippi in the 20th century, and throughout her entire career she managed to save more than $150,000. She then donated nearly all of it to the University of Southern Mississippi, to fund a scholarship for students who would not have chance to go to college otherwise. She was a completely selfless individual, and an inspiration to me to remind me how fortunate I am and to always help others.  

How have Black Leaders, teachers and inventors shaped how you lead, compete and inspire others?
Black leaders, teachers, and inventors have shaped the way that I compete and inspire because they are living examples of becoming great while being a minority. While being African American in America, you must work harder than other people might have to, and these people are prime examples of that. If I am every feeling down or discouraged about something, it is a great friendly reminder seeing successful black people, knowing that they were faced with similar experiences and had the strength and resilience to work through it. 

Lastly, why did you choose to come to Dickinson?
I chose to attend Dickinson because I wanted to be surrounded by people that I know and have great relationships with, while also receiving a wonderful education that can help me further in my life. I knew that I wanted to receive a liberal arts education because it would allow me to grow in the areas of communication, problem solving, and simply the ability to apply knowledge to real world situations. Dickinson College is a great combination of a good community and social life, but also challenging you to become your best self.  

Stay tuned throughout the month to hear more from the Athletes of Color Coalition as we provide more Black History Month Spotlights.