Black Excellence Summit

At UMBC, we believe in the importance of building community. UMBC’s community is especially appreciated for its diversity among the students, staff, and faculty. However, minority students, mostly those who are Black, often don’t feel a sense of community among those who share the same culture or racial identity as them. This is an opportunity for that to change! With America’s current political and social climate, it’s become increasingly important to make sure that our community is actively pursuing racial equity as well as cultivating an environment where Black students feel heard and comfortable. Furthermore, we want to redefine the idea of Black Excellence, so that it is more focused on the authenticity of the Black experience, rather than appealing to societal norms.

The Black Excellence Summit hosted in collaboration with the Student Government Association (SGA), Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion & Belonging (i3b), Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI), Africana Studies Department, National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, CURL P.W.R, the Women’s Center, and the Faithful Black Men Association (FBMA). This event is a virtual summit taking place on February 27th, 2021 through Webex from 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm.

Please use the link below to RSVP as spots are limited, and choose which two sessions you are interested in attending:

• Racial Trauma/Racial Battle Fatigue and Radical Self Care - Dr. Whitney Hobson, Staff Psychologist/Multicultural Coordinator

• Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome - Ciara Christian, Graduate Assistant, Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion & Belonging 

• Understanding and Responding to Microaggressions - David Shanks, Community Director for Hillside & Terrace Apartments; Amery Thompson, Community Director for Harbor Hall

• Challenging Racial Disparities in Health - Samantha A. Smith,  Associate Director of Health Promotion, University Health Services

• Race in the Classroom and Academic Success - Carlos Williams, Academic Advocate, Academic Success Center

• The Practice of Diaspora: Exploring Pan-Ethnic Identity & Unity - Erin E. Waddles, Coordinator, Initiatives for Identity, Inclusion & Belonging

Link to RSVP: https://forms.gle/MCJk5wCFMfyHAw497