Siena Heights is having a Common Dialogue Day on Nov. 12.

Common Dialogue Day is a Siena tradition honoring the Catholic and Dominican heritage. It is a day full of discussions, debates, and reflection about themes in the Dominican tradition. The theme for Common Dialogue Day this year is “Creating Y(our) Legacy,” in honor of Siena Heights’ 100-year anniversary.

It will be taking place in the Performing Arts Center. There is also a Black History 101 Mobile Museum that will be in Dominican Hall, which will be there from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The mobile museum will feature Khalid el-Hakim. His mobile museum features 7,000 artifacts of black memorabilia that was from the trans-Atlantic slave trade era all the way to hip-hop culture.

Ruth E. Carter is also speaking. She is the 2019 Oscar-winning costume designer for the film “Black Panther.” There will be a costume contest where students and staff are encouraged to dress up as any Marvel character. Be sure to check out cdd.sienaheights.edu for a complete schedule for the day and for additional information.

Elizabeth Davis, who is the director of Field Education and the assistant professor of Social Work, said that the committee worked really hard to get Carter to come to Siena.

“It’s our centennial year, so let’s dream really big,” she said.

Davis said they came up with a list of about 20-25 speakers to potentially come to Siena. The list ranged from authors, poets, politicians and costume designers.

“People that we thought really spoke to the theme of creating your legacy,” Davis said, referencing the centennial theme. “All of the individuals we were looking at, we discussed what has been their impact, what has been their story, what are they doing, and what have they done.”

Davis said they wanted someone who would be the most engaging for students and faculty, and someone who is relatable. They settled on Carter.

When asked what she was the most excited about, Davis said, “I’m really looking forward to seeing the costumes. I love Marvel movies and DC comics.”

She’s also excited to hear Carter speak, which will be at 4 p.m. in the McLaughlin Music Hall.

“I’m just really excited to hear about her story, what lead her to this, and how did she create her legacy.”

Siena has exciting activities planned for Common Dialogue Day, and it will be a day about legacy and good conversation.