MCH Celebrates Black History Month

Monroe Community Hospital marked Black History Month with a series of engaging and meaningful activities for both staff and residents. From music by iconic Black artists to a scavenger hunt highlighting Rochester’s influential Black leaders, the celebration honored history in ways that were both fun and educational.

Displays throughout the hospital celebrated national trailblazers, while Derrick Lucas of Jazz 90.1 brought the sounds of jazz to life. Derrick shared his passion for music, local jazz stories, and played selections for audiences in the auditorium, creating an unforgettable experience. He also reminisced about growing up in Rochester, his early love for jazz, and the city’s rich jazz scene.

Derrick has been a cornerstone of Rochester’s jazz community since 1989, serving as Music Director, Operations Assistant, and morning show host at WGMC-FM Jazz 90.1. Known as the “unofficial Mayor of Jazz Street,” he is a three-time JazzWeek Jazz Programmer of the Year winner and host of The Spectrum, airing Sundays 10 p.m.–1 a.m. and weekday mornings 6 a.m.–10 a.m.

His lifelong passion for jazz began at age four with his first album, Spectrum by Billy Cobham, and continues to inspire audiences across the region, including during the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival.

Beth extended thanks to MCH’s DEI Committee, Auxiliary, and Resident Programs for making this celebration possible. Through music, stories, and interactive activities, MCH honored Black history, culture, and community—reminding everyone that the celebration of diversity is an everyday commitment.