Celebrating the Norman Jordan African American Arts and Heritage Academy: A Legacy of Arts and Culture

By Traci Phillips

The Norman Jordan African American Arts and Heritage Academy has a rich history rooted in the vision of Norman Jordan, a poet and playwright from the Black Arts Movement in Cleveland, Ohio. Born and partially raised in Ansted, West Virginia, Jordan is the most published African American author in the state’s history. He founded the academy with the mission of developing and assisting youth with interests in the arts. Over the years, the academy has grown into a celebrated program, known for its dedication to African American arts and heritage. Norman’s legacy lives on through the academy, which has been a cornerstone of the community for decades, inspiring and nurturing young talent.

The 2024 Academy took place July 8-13 on the campus of West Virginia State University. More than 30 students participated in the week-long camp that focused on performing arts and learning about African American history and culture. This year’s theme was “Young, Gifted and Black,” with campers learning Black history facts and singing the Negro National Anthem daily throughout the week. 

Campers chose from workshops such as Theater, Dance, Vocal & Instrumental Music, Hip Hop, Creative Writing, and Visual Arts. Throughout the week, they attended their chosen workshops and created performances for a final showcase at the end of the week. Students also engaged in Arts & Heritage Master Classes, STEM exercises, and enjoyed exposure to guest performers and speakers.

Eric Jordan, the Artistic Director, has been involved with this camp for almost 40 years. He started as a student, then became a counselor, which led to an instructor role (DIY & Hip Hop Instructor). Now, he serves as the Artistic Director, continuing his father’s vision.

This year, students had the opportunity to showcase their talents during a final performance held in the WVSU Fine Arts Theatre on Saturday afternoon. A dramatic performance from the renowned play “A Raisin in the Sun” was delivered by the students in the theater class, while Instrumental Music students played pieces by the Jackson 5 and jazz composer Thaddeus Jones. Visual and vocal arts students paid homage to groundbreaking artists like Lorraine Hansberry and Nina Simone, and the creative writing and songwriting class performed some of their original music created during the camp.

In recognition of its significant contributions, The West Virginia Symphony recently announced that The Academy is the winner of the 2024 Diversity in Arts Award. The WVSO’s Diversity in Arts Award recognizes individuals or organizations in West Virginia that have influenced and increased diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the arts. Read the BBG story

The continued success and recognition of the Norman Jordan African American Arts and Heritage Academy are a testament to the enduring legacy of its founder and the dedicated efforts of those who carry his vision forward. The academy remains a beacon of cultural enrichment and artistic excellence, nurturing the next generation of artists and leaders.

Read more about Norman Jordan and his poetry.