Salisbury, MD — Members of the Salisbury University community attending Alumni Homecoming and Family Weekend each year know they can count on certain things: reunions, family-friendly activities and athletics events that — more often than not — end with a Sea Gull win.
Beginning this year, the Black Alumni Association of SU (BAASU) plans to add to those traditions with activities geared toward its 700-plus members and others with similar shared campus experiences.
“BAASU was founded in 2020 to address the continuous need for a network that represents the collective cultural experiences and achievements of Black alumni,” said Ashley Fletcher ‘14, the organization’s founding president, noting its mission statement. “Working in conjunction with the SU Alumni Association, we strive to empower SU Sea Gulls of the past, present and future.”
After conducting an alumni survey and “tons of research” on similar events at other institutions, she and her board of directors — First Vice President Rachel Obamwonyi ’16 and Second Vice President Dominic Williams ’17 — have planned a cookout, family-friendly bowling session and “Back on the Shore” party on Saturday, followed by the return of the SU Jazz Brunch, sponsored by the SU Office of Diversity and Inclusion, on Sunday. (A full list of SU Alumni Homecoming and Family Weekend activities is available at www.salisbury.edu/homecoming).
“We were looking to provide programming and events that speak to the Black experience at Salisbury,” explained Fletcher. “It’s very unique. It’s very dynamic and multifaceted.”
She and her team have spent the past three years connecting with SU’s diverse alumni, working to establish a strong network. She hopes the contacts fostered by the association not only will benefit graduates, but current Sea Gulls, as well.
“We want to support students as they navigate various challenges of equity and inclusion, and to provide mentorship that fosters lifetime connections,” she said. “The support that we’ve received from alumni has been incredible. We are super excited for what’s to come!”
“We’re just getting started,” she added.
BAASU is seeking officers and committee members, as well as information from diverse alumni who have not yet connected with the organization. To express interest, email blackalumsu@gmail.com.
For more information, including registration for the association’s Alumni Homecoming and Family Weekend activities and social media links, visit https://linktr.ee/blackalumsu.
Learn more about SU and opportunities to Make Tomorrow Yours at www.salisbury.edu.
