Dear UNCW,

I am the instructional coach at D. C. Virgo Preparatory Academy here in New Hanover County.  Our 7th graders were invited to your campus for a special screening and panel discussion of “Wilmington on Fire” on Thursday, January 21.  Our students were incredibly grateful for the experience.  They had studied the Wilmington Race Riots of 1898 and were excited to see the documentary.  The panel spoke directly to them and answered their questions making them feel even more special.

After the viewing of the film, our students were invited to have lunch in Wagoner Dining Hall.  I have never seen a group of seventh grades more excited!  All-you- can- eat just doesn’t happen much, if ever in their world!  All 60 7th grades invaded that dining hall at one time. The employees were so kind and patient with each and every one of them.  Thank you Wagoner Hall staff! 

But the BEST part of their day was walking around the dining hall talking to college students. THANK YOU UNCW students for taking the time to really talk with our kids.  They felt like such “big shots”! 

I am sure it made a difference to many of our kids.  College isn’t naturally “on their radar” as most of their parents have never attended college. 

DC Virgo just wanted to let you all know just how much our adventure on your campus meant to the teachers, the administration, but most of all, our students.

With sincere gratitude,

Connie Rogers

D.C.Virgo Preparatory Academy

Wilmington, NC