Ar’Darius Stewart to Be Crowned Mister Claflin University

The crowning ceremony for Ar’Darius Stewart as Mister Claflin University 2015-2016 will be held in the W.V. Middleton Fine Arts Center on Friday, October 9 at 7 p.m.

“My role as Mister Claflin allows me to exemplify what it means to be a Claflin man and represent the male population on campus. I want the males on campus to know that we are kings and we should carry ourselves as such.”

Stewart’s term as Mr. Claflin will be guided by what he calls I.M.P.A.C.T., which stands for Inspiring Minds Positivity and Continuously Thriving.  He plans to conduct workshops that will help motivate, empower and educate males on their roles on campus and in the community.

Stewart is a junior majoring in mass communications with a minor in theatre arts.  The theme for his crowning, “The Legacy of Pharaoh,” was inspired by his recent month-long trip to Central Kampala, Uganda.

“I knew I wanted an African-themed crowning ceremony,” Stewart said.  “I have always been fascinated by the history and culture of Africa, particularly ancient Egypt, and the legacy of the pharaohs.   I want the audience to experience royalty and remind them that Black kings do exist.”

While in Africa, Steward conducted research with Dr. Peter Hoesing, assistant professor of musicology and ethnomusicology.  His project, Archiving Africa: Critical Perspectives in Post-Colonial Digital Humanities, immersed him in research collaboration at the Klaus Wachsmann Music Archive at Makerere University.  Hoesing and Stewart helped the Archive catalogue and digitize its holdings, while ensuring the archival system met the National Archive Standards.

“I really enjoyed my experience in Africa and I learned the importance of developing archival systems to preserve information,” Stewart said.

Stewart’s plans upon graduation include earning his master’s degree in theatre arts and becoming a professional actor. He also plans to enhance his video productions company, Broken Stereotype Productions.