INFORMATION FOR
William Paterson University will recognize the more than 50-year history of Black Studies on campus during a Black Alumni Celebration on September 13 and 14, 2024. Events will include a campus reception, a walking tour, and participation in the University’s annual Communiversity Day tailgating and football game.
The events are designed to highlight the establishment of the University’s academic programs focused on the experiences and contributions of people of African descent. These programs were launched due to the advocacy of Black students on campus in the late 1960s, including several pivotal days of protests in May 1969 when members of the Black Students Union held sit-ins.
Among the students’ demands were the formation of a Black Studies department, the admission of more Black students to the college, and hiring of more Black professors. After meetings with the Black Students Union, then-president James Karge Olsen and other administrators agreed to the immediate formation of a Black Studies program in fall 1969—the only program in University history that was developed due to student demand. Originally launched as a minor, that program grew into a bachelor of arts degree in Black Studies, and the formation of a Department of Black Studies.
Over more than 50 years, both the department and the program have continued to evolve and serve the campus community. Today, the Department of Community and Social Justice Studies offers a bachelor of arts degree and a minor in Africana-World Studies, as well as other degree programs.
The weekend will begin with a Black Studies 50th Anniversary Celebratory Reception on Friday, September 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the University Commons Ballrooms.
On Saturday, September 14, an optional interactive walking tour focused on the history of Black Studies on campus will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. The tour will begin at Raubinger Hall and include a plaque unveiling and a visit to campus bricks that honor beloved faculty members and founders of the program. President Richard J. Helldobler will kick off the walking tour with welcome remarks.
The tour will conclude at President Helldobler’s tent at the University’s Communiversity Day tailgate in Lot 2 near Wightman Field, prior to the the Pioneer Football game against Dickinson University. The game begins at 1 p.m. Alumni, along with current and former faculty and students of the Africana World Studies program, will be recognized by President Helldobler during halftime and have a photo opportunity on the field.
Pre-registration is required. For additional information, visit the Black Alumni Celebration website or contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 973-720-2175 or alumni@wpunj.edu.
