Black Alumni Council
The Black Alumni Council (BAC) is an organization of current and future
black alumni of Columbia College dedicated to the support of its members. It
seeks to achieve this goal through the following:
Fund-raising
The BAC works with the Columbia College Fund to raise money for current-use scholarships. These scholarships reduce the burden on very capable students that otherwise might not be able to afford a Columbia Education. The goal for this year is to raise enough money for at least five $10,000 current-use scholarships.
Social, Educational and Networking events
The BAC seeks to enhance the Columbia experience for both students and alumni. The alumni efforts include book readings, wine tastings, and after-work and evening social events. The student efforts include mentoring and cultural events, and place an emphasis on supporting student planned events, so that students know that they have alumni support.
University-wide outreach and communication
The BAC strives to stay aware of current events on campus that may be of importance to its members. With the belief that communication is a key factor in strengthening relationships, the BAC works to keep alumni informed. The BAC Newsletter is a fairly new project, but one that shows promise. In addition, all black alumni that would like to get involved are invited to attend meetings, which are usually held on the second Wednesday of each month. The BAC also holds an open meeting 1 - 2 times a year for those that can not commit to being involved, but still want to learn more about the BAC.
In addition to strengthening communication amongst constituents, the BAC works to keep Black alumni involved in all aspects of University life. The BAC collaborates with other alumni and student groups whenever there is an opportunity to increase chances of achieving a common goal - whether it be community service or just expanding personal networks and career development. Those groups include Columbia Community Outreach, the Center for Career Education, the Columbia College Alumni Association and a number of university-wide affinity groups.
Mentoring
The Black Alumni Council works with the Alumni of Color Outreach Program (ACOP) to link students with mentors that can relate to undergraduates' career interests. BAC members also remain connected to student groups on campus so that students understand that the organization is a resource for all students.
President - Kwamena Aidoo ’03
Vice President - Jessica Buchanan ’05
Secretary - Armond Adams ’06
Treasurer - Dr. Menen Mathias GS ’86
Events Committee Co-Chair - Petra Lewis ’92
Communication Chair - Stephanie Davis ’05
External Relations Chair - Arah Lewis ’03
For more information about the Black Alumni Council, please email blackalumni@columbia.edu. For information about the mentoring program, please email acop@columbia.edu.
