Marian University marked the 100th anniversary of Black History Month with a series of weekly events throughout February, hosted by the Union for Black Identity, the Marian Leadership Committee and the Unity Center.
From cultural celebrations and professional development workshops to film screenings and community dinners, the monthlong lineup provided consistent opportunities for students, faculty and alumni to engage with Black history and culture on campus.
The celebration began Feb. 2 with a Black History Month kickoff and Unity Center anniversary celebration. The event featured trivia, prizes and food as members of the campus community gathered to recognize both the national observance and the center’s milestone.
Throughout the month, recurring events encouraged continued participation. “For the Culture Fridays” invited students to wear attire celebrating Black culture and share photos on social media, fostering pride and visibility across campus. Each Wednesday, the Dining Commons hosted “Dishes of the Diaspora,” featuring African and African American cuisine from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The weekly dining feature highlighted the diversity and global influence of the African diaspora while creating space for cultural exchange.
In addition to weekly traditions, the schedule included educational and creative programming. On Feb. 5, students attended the L.E.V.E.L. Up Workshop #3: Leadership and Career Strategy, an interactive session focused on identifying transferable skills and preparing for employers and graduate programs.
“Talk It Out Tuesday” sessions addressed identity and belonging. “Mastering Natural Hair,” held Feb. 10, offered demonstrations and discussions on natural hair care. “Belonging While Black,” on Feb. 24, created space for students to reflect on building community and navigating campus as Black students.
Other events highlighted creativity and cultural expression. The Afro-Fusion Dance Workshop on Feb. 11 offered a high-energy experience, while Trap and Paint Craft Night on Feb. 16 combined music, art and community in the Unity Center.
Film screenings throughout the month encouraged dialogue around race, identity and representation. “Reel Black Reel Pride” on Feb. 19 featured a screening of the Academy Award-winning film “Moonlight,” followed by discussion. “Lights, Camera, Conversation” on Feb. 23 included a screening of “Miss Evers’ Boys” and a moderated conversation.
The month’s signature event was the annual UBI Soul Food Dinner on Feb. 20 at Allison Mansion, which brought together students, faculty and alumni for an evening centered on African American culture, fellowship and celebration.
The program featured student performers, including Wombo Combo, a student-led musical group. Ramadez energized the audience with a rap performance, and keynote speaker Brother Jamaal Shabazz delivered a message focused on empowerment, unity and cultural awareness. Alumni attendance strengthened connections between current students and graduates, highlighting Marian’s ongoing legacy.
Angelica Smith, director of the Unity Center, said the programming was intentionally designed to foster belonging.
“It is important for Black students to know that they are seen,” Smith said. “They have to feel connected and know that they are not the only Black student on campus. This is why we came together to organize a series of events to celebrate Black History Month for our students, faculty and community here.”
Organizers said the consistent weekly structure allowed students to engage with Black history as an ongoing experience rather than a single event. Through shared meals, artistic expression, professional development and dialogue, the events offered multiple ways for students to participate.
By introducing new initiatives like Dishes of the Diaspora and continuing traditions such as For the Culture Fridays and the Soul Food Dinner, organizers created intentional spaces for connection. As Marian University commemorated a century of Black History Month, the campus community reflected on both progress made and the work that remains.
