Steve Harvey, wife visit SUMA, donate art collection

On Friday, Oct 29, a dedication ceremony was held at the Southern University Museum of Art (SUMA) in honor of the Steve and Mary L. Harvey Foundation African Art Collection. The program, which included a personal appearance by comedian and actor Steve Harvey and his wife Mary L. Harvey, exhibited various artwork and artifacts from different regions of Africa. Over 200 pieces were donated to SUMA including private pieces from the Harveys.

"It is important to give from the heart and to take responsibility to do for others," said Mary L. Harvey during her remarks. "God has been good to Steve and I and I hope that he continues to keep us healthy spiritually and physically so that we can continue to give back."

Mary L. Harvey credits her Louisiana heritage and other things for her interest in SUMA.

"I am from Louisiana and was impressed with the campus," she said. "It has always been my desire to give back -- that is something important to Steve and I and very important to me."

Students, faculty and staff were given the opportunity to view the donated art before the ceremony began. Upon the arrival the Harveys were also given a tour then escorted to their seats in front of adoring fans. The program consisted of remarks by Steve and Mary L. Harvey, Dr. Leon Tarver, president of the Southern University System and Vivian Kerr, director of SUMA. The event concluded with a ribbon cutting.

Kerr noted that it is important for students to see the importance of giving back. She also said that the Foundation is a method for people to see the other side of Steve and his wife outside the entertainment spectrum.

"The Harveys are very committed to bettering the community all around," Kerr said.

During his remarks Steve Harvey joked about his hesitance in donating some of the art but expressed pride in his wife's giving heart.

" My wife is responsible for this and since we are blessed by God we must become a blessing to others," he said. "The more you give, the more God gives to you."

Tarver presented the Harveys with a plaque of appreciation.

"I was very impressed with Mrs. Harvey's dedication," he said. "Many people promise to give to our institution but never follow through. Mrs. Harvey however was true to her word. The art donated will make a lasting impression at our university -- now that's something you can't put a value on."

A number of students were present and were excited not only about the appearance of the Harvey' but with the intricate works that filled the room.

" I think SUMA is a place that the university needs because it adds class and culture to our campus," said Jessica Minor, a senior secondary education major from St. Louis, Missouri. "This museum is very underrated and it deserves more recognition. Many students do not know about the museum and having Steve and his wife here is a good way to bring the attention that it deserves."