Black History Month

Photo of AFRICAN PRINT FABRIC

Black History Month

BLACK HISTORY MONTH TYPE HEADER

2026 Programs

afrocentric colored cables entwined

Black Professional Networking Mixer 

Sunday, February 1 | 12-2 p.m. 
Gilligan Student Union, Multipurpose Room 

Black professionals are navigating a challenging landscape—economic pressure, shifting workplace expectations, and reduced access to capital and opportunity. At the same time, we continue to lead organizations, ÃÛÌÒtv families, grow businesses, and serve our communities. 

The Convening was created as an intentional space to strengthen relationships, share practical insight, and ÃÛÌÒtv one another through connection—not competition. 

This is not a social hour disguised as networking. It is a curated gathering designed to build real professional community. 

Sponsored by the Greater Neighborhood Alliance of New Jersey and Office of Community Engagement and Alumni Relations 


USA FLAG AND BLACK HISTORY FLAG ON POLE

Black History Month Opening Ceremony 

Wednesday, February 4 | 12-1 p.m. 
Gilligan Student Union, Multipurpose Room 

The Opening Ceremony to Black History Month will be an empowering luncheon including a dynamic keynote speaker, performances, cultural ambiance, and delicious food!  

Sponsored by BIDE, BAAFSSO, and Community Engagement & Alumni Relations 


Marley face icon on side of building

Annual Bob Marley Bash 

Thursday, February 5 | 12-2 p.m. 
Gilligan Student Union, Multipurpose Room 

Celebrate Bob Marley’s Birthday with an interactive museum experience, including live music, performances, DJ live poetry and more. Join us to honor his message of love, unity, and community! 

Sponsored by the Office of Campus Life and Student Activities Board 


couple in tango dancing pose outdoors

Afro Latino Roots of Tango 

Thursday, February 12 | 12-2 p.m. 
El Centro, K Building Room 102 

In this dynamic presentation Dr. Franca Roibal Fernández will share the history of Tango, which is often stripped of its Afro Latino roots, and we will discuss the evolution of it from Candombe, drum music played in the Río de la Plata region of South America by enslaved people, through Milonga, to what is now Tango. We will see examples and discuss the broader topics of appropriation, colonization, whitewashing, erasure, intersectionality, and more! 

Sponsored by El Centro 


black young hands on concrete ground

Rutgers University-Newark's Black Boy Joy Conference 

Monday, February 16 | 8 a.m - 5 p.m 
Rutgers University-Newark 

The Black Boy Joy Conference is where culture, creativity, healing, and leadership collide—a full-day experience built for Black boys and young men, by the community that believes in them. This event is sponsored by the Chancellor’s Office, the Prudential Chair in Business, and the Rutgers University–Newark Social Work Department 

We will be bringing students to this program. If you are interested in attending, reach out to Jdessources@njcu.edu 


breakfast meal on table with juice and coffee

All Power to the People! Honoring the Free Breakfast Program 

Tuesday February 17 | 11 a.m - 1 p.m 
El Centro – K Building Room 102 

In this interactive round table style discussion featuring alum Nevin Perkins we will eat breakfast and learn about the history of the Black Panther Party and their successful Free Breakfast and Lunch programs, as well as build community and connections with each other. 

Sponsored by El Centro 


black seated male clasped hands

Men of Color Conversations 

Tuesday, February 17 | 2-3 p.m. 
Gilligan Student Union Building, Room 216 

In conversation with, Sean Crawford, A motivated sports professional and former professional basketball player. He currently works as a player development coach and skills trainer for professional athletes in the National Basketball Association and overseas basketball players.  Sean is linked to several top athletic and sports media organizations including the New York Knicks, LA Clippers, Jumpman Jordan Brand and Crown Basketball (Long Island, NY). 

Sponsored by the Men of Color Initiative 


haitain dancers in street perform

Haitian Folklore Dance Workshop 

Thursday, February 19 | 3-4 p.m. 
Vodra Hall – Exercise Science Room 

This workshop would give participants a hands-on experience with traditional Haitian dance while learning about its cultural significance 

Sponsored by the Haitian Students Association and the Dance Club 


woman smiling seated holding coffee cup and book

Commuter Life Black Voices to Go – Book +Coffee 

Tuesday, February 24 | 12-4 p.m. 
Gilligan Student Union, Lobby 

Black Voices to Go invites students to pick up a grab bag featuring a bookmark highlighting a Black historical figure, along with free book of their choice, Becoming by Michelle Obama or The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama. This initiative celebrates Black voices while encouraging reflection, empowerment, and leadership through literature.  

Sponsored by Center for Student Persistence and Success 


black history month multiple people illustration

Black History Month Closing Ceremony 

Wednesday, February 25 | 12-2 p.m. 
Gilligan Student Union, Multipurpose Room 

The Closing Ceremony to Black History Month will be an empowering luncheon including a dynamic keynote speaker, performances, cultural ambiance, and delicious food!  

Sponsored by BAAFSSO, Community Engagement & Alumni Relations, and BIDE. 


The National Museum of African American History and Culture exterior

The National Museum of African American History and Culture 

Friday, February 27 | 8 a.m.  
Washington D.C. 

Join us for a powerful day trip to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where history, culture, and innovation come alive. This immersive experience offers time to explore groundbreaking exhibits that honor Black resilience, creativity, and leadership, with space for reflection, conversation, and connection. The trip is designed to deepen understanding, spark dialogue, and leave participants inspired by the stories that continue to shape America. 

Contact SAB@njcu.edu for more information.