University of South Carolina Beaufort – Hilton Head Island Campus

The Heritage Library invites you to celebrate local authors with two special afternoon events this May. Meet the authors, hear the stories behind their books and personal journeys, and enjoy a light afternoon tea. The authors will be available to sign purchased books. It began with a name—Sancho. A single memory from his oldest living relative launched author Keith Rushing on a powerful journey to uncover his family’s past. What he discovered was a deep Gullah-Geechee heritage rooted in Hilton Head Island. Sancho, born into slavery, later fought in the Civil War for his freedom and became a landowner—a story of strength, identity, and legacy. In Descended: Searching for My Gullah-Geechee Roots, Rushing weaves personal discovery with historical insight, tracing a lineage shaped by resilience and culture. His story is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Join Rushing and special guests Ahmad Ward, Murray Christopher, and Luanna Graves-Sellars for an inspiring afternoon exploring the importance of knowing where you come from—and why that knowledge matters. $35 per person | Limited seating Reserve your spot at www.heritagelib.org

The Heritage Library invites you to celebrate local authors with two special afternoon events this May. Meet the authors, hear the stories behind their books and personal journeys, and enjoy a light afternoon tea. The authors will be available to sign purchased books. Join us for a heartwarming afternoon with 10-year-old author Andraya Brabham and her mother, Angella Cohen, as they share their debut children’s book, The Adventures of Chocolate Drop. Born from Andraya’s vivid imagination, this colorful nonfiction story follows a brave young girl on a journey of discovery, friendship, and self-belief. Together, Andraya and Angella will talk about their creative process, the power of storytelling, and how children can find confidence and joy through reading and writing. This engaging event is ideal for families and young readers looking to be inspired. $35 per adult | $5 per child (12 & under, with ticketed adult) Seating is limited – Reserve your spot at www.heritagelib.org