Celebrate Black History Month

Black History Month observed in February is an opportunity to honor the accomplishments and recognize the struggles of Black folx in every area of history which is far more often undervalued.

The Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion in conjunction with the Center for Identity and Inclusion at CU Denver will host a variety of events to engage our community, honor historical and contemporary accomplishments of Black folx, and amplify the voices and actions of those who continue to fight the roots of social injustices that Black folx face. To develop cultural competence and work towards representation for Black folx, while emphasizing that Black Lives Matter, we encourage all people from the community to attend our events and to engage in reflection, celebration, and open dialogue during this month.

Tri-institutional Events: Open to the Auraria Campus & Community

Black History Month Kick Off

Tuesday, February 4th | 11:30AM-1:30PM | Tivoli Turnhalle

Open to the public, no registration required

Join us for a vibrant social event sponsored by the Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion and the University of Colorado Denver Center for Identity and Inclusion! We invite all students, staff, faculty, and community members to come together for an engaging evening filled with community vendors, meaningful conversations, and delicious food.

This meet-and-greet is a fantastic opportunity for students on the Auraria campus to connect with various departments, student groups, and local resources. We are also thrilled to announce our keynote speaker, Regent Wanda James, who will share her insights and inspire us with her experiences.

Regent Wanda James

Regent Wanda James became the first Black woman elected to the board in over 44 years. She will serve in Colorado’s First Congressional District.

James is a first-generation graduate of CU Boulder and the first Black woman commissioned through the Naval ROTC program. She served four years in the military. She worked for two Fortune 100 companies and one of the largest senior living nonprofits in California. Her husband, Chef Scott Durrah, has opened five restaurants in Colorado and California.

James managed the congressional campaign for Jared Polis; was appointed to National Finance Committees by former President Barack Obama, Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden; and was an appointed member of Gov. Jared Polis’ transition team.

She is past president of the National Women’s Political Caucus and has served as a gubernatorial appointee to the Colorado Tourism Board; a member of the CU Alumni Board; a graduate of the inaugural class of the Los Angeles African American Women’s Public Policy Institute at the University of Southern California, and a Junior League of Los Angeles Board Fellow.

In 2009, James and her husband became the first African Americans to own a cannabis company in America. She has two Bassett Hounds and a Great Dane.

Terri Gentry on the Colorado Black History

Wednesday, February 12th | 12:30PM– 1:30PM | Tivoli 640

Picture of Terri Gentry

Terri Gentry is a firm believer in the preservation of African American heritage. She has been a volunteering docent at the Black American West Museum since completing her African American Studies program in 2008. Her deep understanding of the history of this area is nothing short of amazing.

Terri is a proud advocate of African American heritage which she mainly gets to do as a volunteer Docent at the Black American West Museum. Terri has been instrumental to the success of the Black American West Museum.  At the museum, she gets to teach visitors about many unsung heroes, who are just a few of the thousands of African Americans who have been fighting and paving ways for black America.  Terri also sits on the board of directors for the museum.

Change Management with Colin Cheadle

Thursday, February 20th | 12:30PM – 1:30PM | Tivoli 320s

Picture of Colin CheadleColin North Cheadle is a seasoned HR leader and executive coach with over 20 years of experience including work with Fortune 50, Fortune 500, private global marketing & technology, national manufacturing corporations, startup corporations and governmental agencies. From guiding foundational strategy to leading strategic improvements to the collective experiences of people in the workplace, Colin has led transformational, diversity-centered organizational change at every stop of his career. He has led advancements in talent acquisition, L&D, communications and marketing, and organizational design. He has also provided leadership through complex pre & post acquisition phases.

Colin has established himself as a reputable leader in People Operations, Change Management, Technology Development, and Mobile App Strategy. He has extensive experience with aiding executives in achieving their highest levels of production and performance for the betterment of the organization. His passion for people is what has always been the main ingredient in his professional accomplishments.

Black Agriculture with Boyd Farms

Wednesday, February 26th | 1:00PM – 2:00PM | Tivoli 320s

Terrance Boyd is the CEO of Wild Boyd Farm and is a first-generation rancher.  He has been featured on Channel 7, Rocky Mountain PBS several times, and multiple podcasts.  In addition, he has been a panelist at several agricultural conferences and summits.  He sits on the CDA Water Quality Advisory Committee and the Steering Committee for Healthy School Meals.  Terrance is passionate about making quality protein available to low income and low access communities. He is married with 3 children and chose the life and environment of ranching. Terrance is the forerunner of the new generation of farmers and ranchers.  For additional information see website: www.wildboydfarm.com.

Be !mpact Conference

Friday, February 28th | 10:00AM – Noon | North Classroom 1130

This event will provide a space for Black youth, college students, and community members to discuss and share strategies that contribute to student success. The conference will include engaging breakout sessions that highlight the student voice and experience, a resource fair that provides the opportunity to meet campus and community members committed to Black student success, and more!

REGISTER HERE

For additional information about this event please contact Tracey Adams, [email protected]

African Student Union's 2nd Annual Culture Night

Friday, February 28th | Doors Open at 4:00PM, Program begins at 5:00PM | Tivoli Turnhalle 

Join the African Student Union for an enchanting evening celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Africa! Culture Night promises to be a vibrant showcase of traditions, food, and talent, bringing together students and community members for a night of unity and pride.

Dress Code: Formal attire; traditional African clothing is encouraged! Embrace the beauty of your heritage by wearing your favorite traditional outfit or formal wear.

Event Highlights:

  • Culinary Delights: Indulge in a feast of authentic African cuisine, featuring dishes from various regions.
  • Cultural Performances: Be captivated by an array of performances showcasing the richness of African art. From traditional dance and music to spoken word and storytelling, experience the rhythms and narratives that define our cultures.
  • Fashion Show: Witness the elegance of African fashion as students model stunning traditional attire. This showcase will celebrate the creativity and artistry of African designers and highlight the beauty of our cultural garments.

Join us for a night filled with laughter, learning, and celebration of our heritage. Whether you’re of African descent or simply curious about the cultures, everyone is welcome to partake in this extraordinary event. Let’s come together to honor our roots and create lasting connections!

Student Organizations

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. – Crest

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

Email Contact: [email protected]

National Website

Want to Learn More?

Below are a few of the resources provided by the Center for Racial Justice in Education in uplifting our students and reinforcing that Black Lives Matter.

Center for Racial Justice in Education

Resources

Center for Multicultural Engagement and Inclusion (CMEI)

Questions? Contact CMEI

Learn More About CMEI

Email:

[email protected]

 

Campus Location:

Tivoli Student Union 305

Phone:

303-615-0606

 

Mailing Address:

Campus Box 39, P.O. Box 173362, Denver, CO 80217-3362