The Black Student Union at Columbia College Chicago is one of the most popular organizations on campus.   Boasting a membership count of over 90 active members, BSU events and programming can attract hundreds of people.  Weekly meetings usually take place on Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30pm, 4th floor, 618 S Michigan (although it’s always best to check facebook.com/bsuccc for the most up to date information). Having an extremely active leadership team along with heavy involvement of the organizations members, the presence of BSU across campus is not easy to overlook.

BSU’s mission statement is summed up in three pillars: professionalism, mentorship, and creativity.  By having three specific core beliefs, BSU wants to create an environment where everyone feels safe, secure and like family. Harambee (www.harambee.news) is a BSU newsletter that states “BSU is a multifaceted student organization that provides a place of refuge for students of color, prompts open dialogue on issues within the Black community, allows students to showcase their talents, and creates an atmosphere for growth as we aim to challenge our members to reach their full potential. Our mission is to provide and promote the unity of Black/African-American students at Columbia College Chicago…. We believe in unifying all races and welcome everyone to participate in our discussions and events. ”

The members of BSU not only dress to impress but also do so to imprint the mentality of professionalism early. Every month, one board member is selected to curate a month-long theme for weekly meetings. During the themed meetings, other Columbia organizations and even outside organizations are brought in to progress the idea of making connections and becoming one large collective. This past October’s theme was branding. During the entire month, weekly meetings revolved around how people can brand themselves. The topics ranged from what elements help to create a brand, making a vision board towards what specific aesthetics someone would want their brand to look like, and having notable alumni and recent grads speak on becoming your brand.

November highlights a multitude of events that revolve around a theme of “No Shade”.  Highlights include a class on self defense, A Seat at the Table: Tasting My Future on Nov 22, Step Up on Nov 29, and Black Girls Break Bread and Man to Man on Nov. 8th. Additionally, the BSU sponsored Paint it Black is happening November 17th at Stage Two. An event that is sure to reach capacity will feature live performances by singers, dancers, poets, rappers, etc. All performers and talent had to pass auditions that began in mid September in order to be featured at the November event.

Black Student Union has been running for 29 years and is coming up on their 30th anniversary in February. In light of their 30th, they still aim to create a home away from home, a strong community and to produce even bigger events like a TV show where artists in the community are highlighted. Much of BSU’s success can be directly attributed to an excellent leadership team, a heavy involvement of members, and programming that engages students.

For questions or additional information please reach out to: blackstudentunion@loop.colum.edu