ABOUT
US
The University
of Maryland Black Student Union
was founded in 1968. The beginning of the Black Student Union was
sparked by a need to not only forge and maintain the strength and
unity of the black community, but to also ensure that future black
students had a meaningful voice at The University of Maryland. Since
then, the BSU has expanded to one of the largest organizations at
The University of Maryland, boasting a membership of approximately
3,000 undergraduate students. Below are some of the annual BSU programs
and events.
BLACK
STUDENTS UNION ANNUAL EVENTS
ALL NITER SOCIAL (SEPTEMBER 23)
During
the Stamp Student Union All-Niter the BSU throws the largest and
most anticipated social in the grand ballroom. This sold-out party
is free for all of those who receive one of the coveted wristbands.
Make sure you sign-up to be member of the BSU listserve
for more details on when wristbands will be available and come to
the first BSU meeting of the year for an
opportunity to win a wristband.
CAMPUS MENTORING BIGS MIXER (SEPTEMBER)
The BSU Vice President of Student Affairs initiates this event,
which forges big/little relationships between incoming students,
and upper-class mentors. The relationship serves to augment the
academic, cultural, and social aspects of the incoming student’s
collegiate experience through one on one mentoring and guidance.
The upperclassmen serve as a valuable resource, and the CMB program
gives incoming students the opportunity to take advantage of that.
If you are interested in becoming a Big, or would like to have a
big, please contact VP of Student Affairs- Aundrea
Small
HOMECOMING (OCT./NOV.)
One of the most anticipated times of the year
for students is Homecoming. The BSU has always been committed
to providing entertaining events during Homecoming Week. Past Programs
have included, a Singled-Out style dating
game, Fear Factor, Battle
of the Sexes, and an MC Battle. These events are planned solely
by the BSU Homecoming Committee and offer great programming experience
early on in the semester. If you would like to join the Homecoming Committee,
or have any suggestions for possible events, please contact us at
UMDBSU@hotmail.com
SPEAKER SERIES (OCTOBER – APRIL)
Every year the BSU puts together a yearlong lecture series highlighting
different aspects within the changing perspectives of the African-American
Identity. These events welcome everyone. Last year we brought such
distinguished lecturers as Dr. Naim Akbar,
and we look forward to further developing the lecture series, by
bringing other notable speakers to campus. If you would like more
information or want to suggest a possible speaker, please contact
us at UMDBSU@hotmail.com
THE TASTE OF THE DIASPORA (OCTOBER – APRIL)
By far one of the BSU’s most unique events,
the Taste of the Diaspora looks to embrace culture through food.
Usually co sponsored with another cultural organization, the BSU
will provide food from the African-American Diaspora, and the co
sponsoring organization will provide food from their respective
culture. As everyone enjoys the cultural cuisine, we have lecturers
speak on the similarities and differences in each culture, enabling
us to understand and appreciate each other more by broadening our
horizons. If you are interested in cosponsoring, attending, or simply
receiving more information please contact us at UMDBSU@hotmail.com
BLACK HISTORY MONTH EVENTS (FEBRUARY)
Our busiest month of the year is highlighted by a kickoff celebration
Co-sponsored with the Nyumburu
Cultural Center.
This event is followed by other lectures through out the month,
as well a social and other events. If you would like to join the
Black History Month Committee, or you would like to receive more
information, please contact us at UMDBSU@hotmail.com
HIP-HOP CONFERENCE (MARCH/APRIL)
For the Past 6 years the Black Student Union Hip-Hop Conference
has served as a platform to display Hip-Hop culture as more than
entertainment, but as an educational tool, a gateway into professional
opportunities for participants, and a beacon for change. Traditionally,
the week-long conference features a play, keynote speakers, workshops,
exhibitions, and a concert. Past keynote speakers have included;
Chuck-D, KRS-1, and Kevin Powell. The closing concert has featured
performances by Jadakiss, Ghostface Killah, and The Clipse. All of the programs and events are planned by the
student run Hip-Hop Conference Committee which serves as a great
opportunity for those interested in getting into the music industry
or just planning large scale events in general. If you would like
to join the Hip-Hop Conference Committee, or you would like to receive
more information, please contact us at UMDBSU@hotmail.com
THE BOAT RIDE (APRIL)
Our longest running annual event, The Boat Ride on the Odyssey Cruise
Ship has become a tradition in the Black Community. The Boat Ride
represents the end of the school year, as it takes place a couple
weeks before Finals begin, and it gives students a chance to dress
up and go out together one last time before the true studying begins.
Lst year funding for the Boat Ride was
cut, yet in a show of solidarity the Black Campus Organizations
came together in the form of BAN in order to secure funding. If you would like to join the Boat Ride Committee,
or you would like to receive more information, please contact us
at UMDBSU@hotmail.com
ELECTIONS (APRIL)
Our most important event of the year. If you are interested in running
for a position, or would like to receive more information, please
contact us at UMDBSU@hotmail.com
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