Signature Events

Sunday, August 24th, 2025

Community Kickoff Cookout

The Community Kickoff Cookout is hosted the weekend before classes start at UConn, making it the first signature event. All students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to join and celebrate the start of the academic year. This lively cookout fosters community, connection, and fun in a welcoming outdoor setting. There are games, food, and music for everyone to enjoy!

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Black Student Organizations Involvement Fair
Friday, September 5th, 2025

Black Student Orgs. Involvement Fair

The Black Student Organizations Involvement Fair is always hosted in the fall and provides a chance for students to get involved in the UConn community. Students are given the opportunity to network with peers while also exploring the Black student organizations around them. This involvement fair invites all members of the UConn community to learn more about Black organizations and the things they offer.

Thursday, September 25th, 2025

Welcome Back Dinner

The Welcome Back Dinner is one of the Center's most popular events. This dinner brings together students, faculty, and staff to celebrate the start of a new academic year. Students are provided a chance to reconnect, meet new faces, and build community over a shared meal. Also UConn students, especially of the Black UConn community, are encouraged to join!

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Sunday, October 19th, 2025 and Sunday, February 22nd, 2026

CROWN Day

CROWN Day is a vibrant and empowering event held both in the fall and in the spring at UConn. It celebrates and uplifts the experiences of people of color. The event creates a space for students to connect, reflect, and engage in conversations centered on identity, leadership, and community. CROWN Day welcomes all members of the UConn community to come together and even get their hair done through professional stylists, while also highlighting their voices, stories, and achievements.

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Friday, December 5th, 2025

Kwanzaa Celebration

The Kwanzaa Celebration at the AACC is a cherished annual event that honors the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the African diaspora. Hosted in the fall, this celebration brings together students, faculty, and staff to reflect on the seven principles of Kwanzaa through performances, speakers, and community engagement. Open to the entire UConn community, the event provides a space to celebrate unity, culture, and pride while fostering a deeper understanding of African-American traditions.

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Wednesday, February 4th, 2026

Black History Month Opening Ceremony

The Black History Month Opening Ceremony marks the beginning of a month-long celebration of Black history, culture, and excellence at UConn. Held at the start of February, this event brings the UConn community together to reflect on the legacy and contributions of the Black community through powerful speakers, performances, and shared experiences. Open to all, the ceremony sets the tone for the month by encouraging education, celebration, and unity across campus.

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Friday, February 27th, 2026

Black History Month Closing Ceremony

The Black History Month Closing Ceremony serves as a meaningful conclusion to a month dedicated to celebrating Black history, culture, and achievement at UConn. This event brings the community together to reflect on the events of the month, honor the contributions of the Black community, and look ahead with pride and purpose. Through performances, speakers, and recognition, the closing ceremony invites all members of the UConn community to celebrate unity, growth, and continued commitment to Black excellence.

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Friday, April 3rd, 2026 - Saturday, April 4th, 2026

Black Excellence Summit

The Black Excellence Summit is a powerful two day-long experience dedicated to celebrating and empowering Black students at UConn. This summit provides a space for students to engage in meaningful dialogue, participate in workshops, and connect with peers, alumni, and professionals. Centered on themes of leadership, identity, and success, the summit uplifts the voices and experiences of Black students while fostering personal growth and community building. All are welcome to take part in this inspiring celebration of Black excellence.

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Senior Banquet
Sunday, April 5th, 2026

Annual Awards Show and Senior Banquet

The Annual Awards Show and Senior Banquet is a celebratory event held each spring to honor and recognize the achievements of graduating Black seniors at UConn. This formal gathering brings together students, families, faculty, and staff to reflect on the journey, growth, and accomplishments of the senior class. Through awards, speeches, and moments of recognition, the banquet serves as a heartfelt send-off and a celebration of Black excellence, resilience, and community. All are invited to share in this memorable milestone.