February is Black History Month, and the Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) is proud to honor this important occasion by celebrating exceptional students through student voice and recognition. This week’s student showcase features Morgan Monte, a senior from Upper Dublin High School enrolled in EASTERN’s Design, Photography, and Illustration Program.

To Morgan, Black History Month is a time to reflect on her background, her history, and where she came from. She is grateful for those who fought to create change and make a difference between the past and the present. Morgan appreciates her culture and feels proud of who she is. “It pushes me to work harder. We didn’t always have the opportunities that we have now,” Morgan said.

Morgan draws inspiration from her great-grandmother, who recently passed away. “My great-grandmother lived into her 90s and experienced so much throughout her life, so it meant a lot to me when she told me how well I was doing and how proud she was of me,” Morgan said. “She served as a powerful reminder that our history has definitely come a long way.”

Throughout her time at EASTERN, Morgan has become highly involved in school activities. She serves as the AM Session SkillsUSA Treasurer and has also worked as a student ambassador for various recruitment events. “I used to be a very closed-off person,” Morgan said. “I wanted to open up more, explore new opportunities, and take chances and risks, so I ran for treasurer. I’m proud that I did.” In addition, Morgan is active at Upper Dublin High School, where she participates on the cheer team and the flag football team. She was also previously involved in the art club and the Black Student Union.

Morgan has been drawing since she was a child. She shared a memory of drawing her father’s face and being surprised when her parents commented on how realistic it was. At first, Morgan viewed art as a hobby, but after taking art classes in high school, she began to see it as a potential career. In tenth grade, she learned about the Design, Photography, and Illustration program at EASTERN and realized it was a great fit for her.

After graduating from EASTERN and Upper Dublin High School, Morgan plans to attend Thomas Jefferson University, where she will major in interior design and minor in entrepreneurship. She also plans to earn her real estate license while in college.