Cultural Programs

Cultural programs

Annual Awards Banquet

This program has been in existence for the past 35 years. The program is designed to acknowledge and recognize the accomplishments of African American students, both academically and as student leaders. The program also recognizes the accomplishments of individuals in the community (as well as alumni) who have played an integral role in the success of African American students and the Black/African American Cultural Center.

B/AACC Goes Abroad

This winter break CSU faculty and staff-led education abroad experience will explore the lives of African Caribbean people in Jamaica. It is designed to increase students’ knowledge of the Caribbean by exploring the forces that have shaped the socio-economic and cultural history of the region. In addition, this course will explore the impact of tourism on the Caribbean economy, the importance of national culture and the particularities in the articulation of Caribbean identity. Studying in Jamaica will allow students to critically reflect on who they are as Americans individually and collectively while being immersed in the Jamaican culture.

Being Black and... Series

Being Black is just one of the several identities we hold and it is important for students to take the time to explore why we/they show up the way they/we do as Black individuals. We may have one identity in common (being Black), but other identities we hold influences our why, what, who, when, where and how.

Black History Month Programs

Every February our office makes an intentional effort to highlight the accomplishments and contributions of African, African American, Pan-African people and culture. This is done through a great deal of collaborations with our wonderful students, student organizations we support, on campus faculty/staff, CSU departments, alumni, and Northern Colorado community members.

Civil Rights Tour: Alt Break 2023

Flying into Atlanta, GA then traveling through Alabama and back, this trip provides a unique learning experience that merges past and present as we explore the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement. Students will have the opportunity to engage with the Equal Justice Initiative Legacy Museum, the 16th Street Baptist Church, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and more.

CSU Homecoming Royalty Pageant

The Black/African American Cultural Center hosts an annual CSU Homecoming Royalty Pageant, which showcases Black Excellence and demonstrates that beauty comes in all sizes, shapes, and colors.

Fall Welcome Events

Prior to coming to CSU, both the B.E.S.T. staff and the professional staff prepare summer correspondence for incoming new students regarding student organizations, events, and services offered by the Black/African American Cultural Center. A highlight of these activities features the distribution of welcome bags to new freshmen and transfer students. An ice cream social and a cookout/mixer is also sponsored by the office as well as meet and greet events. These events also showcase student organizations that cater to the needs of Black/African American students.

Soul Food Gospel Fest

Since 2011, in collaboration with Residence Life and Housing and Dining Services, we celebrate a small piece of who we are through our Soul Food Gospel Fest. Annually in April, one of the Residence Halls transforms their space to a place filled with gospel music and soul food.

Thirst for Knowledge

Thirst for Knowledge is an opportunity for students whose schedules do not permit them to engage in cultural and historical learning experiences.