Women of Space: Hidden Figures' Movie Night

In celebration of Women’s History Month, Troy’s Trio Ambassadors, University Activities Council (UAC), Black Student Union (BSU) and Circle K held a screening of “Hidden Figures” in Patterson Hall last Wednesday, giving students the opportunity to reflect on the historical contributions of Black women in science, technology and mathematics. 

The event was organized to encourage students to step away from their daily routines and engage with a story that is both historically significant and inspiring. UAC President Tayjo Oppong said events like the “Hidden Figures” movie night are designed to bring students together while encouraging meaningful reflection. 

“One of the main goals of events like this is to get students out and into a more thought-provoking environment,” Oppong said, who is a senior sports management major from Providenciales, Turks and Caicos. “By choosing a film like ‘Hidden Figures,’ we can give students something meaningful to watch while also encouraging conversations about history.” 

The film highlights the challenges and triumphs of three Black women mathematicians—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson —who played critical roles in NASA’s early space missions. The movie follows their fight for recognition in a field where their intelligence and abilities were often overlooked, despite the vital role they played in helping advance space exploration. 

For many students, the film served as both an educational experience and a source of inspiration. UAC President Jamie Parker, a senior nursing major from Millbrook, Alabama, said the story behind “Hidden Figures”displays the importance of representation and recognition in fields that have historically lacked diversity. 

“It’s inspiring to see Black people represented in such important roles, especially when it comes to advancing technology and science,” Parker said. “Stories like this remind people that the contributions of Black scientists and mathematicians have always played an important role in shaping the world.” 

Students in attendance also reflected on how the film’s messages are relatable with those currently pursuing their own goals. Darius Winans, a sophomore business major from Opp, Alabama, said the film is a reminder that determination and confidence can help students achieve more than they might believe. 

“Seeing stories like this reminds Black students and women that they can do more than they might think,” Winans said. “When you believe in yourself and stay focused on your goals, you can accomplish almost anything.” 

Movies such as this one continue to give students the opportunity to reflect on history while celebrating the individuals whose brilliance helped shape the future of science and technology. 

For more information on upcoming events from these organizations, visit @troymain_sss, @troyuac, @troycki and @troybsy on Instagram.