The ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University Black Alumni Chapter is experiencing significant growth and renewed focus. Recently, leadership of the group began to transition to Amber Benton '09, Patrice Fuller '16 and Michael Tyner '15, who continue to work closely with founding members Robert Browning '69 and Donna Maxey '70. With strong leadership, the chapter is solidifying its role in fostering a strong and supportive community for alumni and students.
Alumni, employees and students are encouraged to join the chapter for a meeting and begin to get involved!
The chapter's mission, recently formalized, emphasizes belonging, empowerment, academic excellence, and the improvement of the Black experience at ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University. The mission statement explicitly acknowledges the historical challenges faced by Black students and commits to addressing the ongoing effects of systemic racism.
Key initiatives and recent activities include:
- Successful Soul Food Dinners: The chapter hosted Soul Food Dinner in 2023 and 2024, fostering community and celebration. The third annual Soul Food Dinner is planned for Oct. 24 during Homecoming 2025.
- BSU Support: Chapter members recently participated in the undergraduate Black Student Union's (BSU) Mardi Gras celebration and are exploring ways to support a BSU project to create a hair care closet.
- Alumni and Student Connections: The chapter is actively discussing strategies to support new alumni at graduation and to strengthen connections between undergraduate and graduate BSU students and alumni.
- Mission-Driven Action: The chapter has adopted a mission statement that dictates collaboration with the Alumni Board and the undergraduate and graduate BSU to support the academic and life success of potential and current students as well as alumni. They plan to facilitate networking, work in partnership with the University, utilize networking platforms, and create financial support mechanisms.
The chapter's origins stem from a 2022 Homecoming affinity reception, where Browning and Maxey were inspired to create a network to support Black students and alumni. Their collaborative efforts with university representatives, including President Jenny Coyle '90, OD '93, MS '00 and other university leaders laid the groundwork for the chapter's current momentum.
The chapter's commitment to community building was further demonstrated through event participation and open meetings.
Why Join the Black Alumni Chapter?
- If you experienced "culture shock" as a ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University student.
- If you benefited from attending ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University.
- If you benefited from networking with ½ðɳÓéÀÖ University alumni.
- If you want to see more Black graduates enter your profession.
Meetings take place monthly at 5 p.m. on second Wednesdays by video call. The chapter encourages all alumni to join and contribute to its mission.
For more information and to get involved, please contact Martha Calus-McLain '03 at martha@pacificu.edu.
Consistent with federal and state law, ½ðɳÓéÀÖ acknowledges that while groups are intended to create space and focus on the needs of certain communities, all ½ðɳÓéÀÖ community members who are supportive of creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity are welcome to attend any affinity group meeting or event.