Kellman scholars prepare for their next step

The Kellman program, a nine-month long course in the humanities for adults who are thinking about going to college, wrapped up its twelfth year. The course, which is named in memory of Bloomfield College professor Martin Kellman, invites adults in urban areas who may have opted out of college for family or economic reasons, to participate in gaining three college credits by learning US history, philosophy, writing, art history and literature. While some scholars choose to continue their education, some just enjoyed the process of learning and will continue on their own.

The Kellman Course in the Humanities is based on the Bard-Clemente course created by Earl Shorris. Shorris reasoned that by offering methods of learning through the humanities, the rates of poverty could be reduced as low-income people could become more involved in their communities as well as have a foundation to continue their education. The course is named after Bard College and famed baseballer Roberto Clemente who had established a family guidance center in lower Manhattan where the first course was held. The humanities were chosen as target subject because they promote critical thinking. The Kellman program is held at the East Orange Child Development Center.

The Kellman Scholars gathered with their families in the Van Fossan Theatre at Westminster Arts Center and were greeted by College President Richard Levao and Dr. Marion Terenzio, vice president of academics and dean of faculty. Both spoke of the history of higher education and the gradual access to middle and lower income people in the last century. Both noted that education cultivates freedom within a democracy.

The Kellman XII faculty are Ben Alexander, US history; Glenmore Bembry, philosophy; Carolyn Ginsberg, writing; Susana Holguin-Veras, art history; and Frank Manfre, literature and academic coordinator.

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