President’s Message
Unity. Purpose. Legacy.
Dear Ubunye Family,
Jambo! At the heart of Ubunye is a simple but powerful idea: we are stronger together. The Zulu word ubunye means unity, and that spirit continues to guide the work of bringing together the thousands of Black alumni who share the experience of walking the historic Grounds of the University of Virginia.
Every generation of Black students and alumni has contributed to the legacy we celebrate today. From the earliest pioneers who attended UVA in the face of adversity to the thousands of alumni now leading in athletics, arts, business, education, law, medicine, public service, and science, our community continues to shape the future of the University and the world beyond it.
Ubunye exists to ensure that Black alumni remain connected to one another, connected to the University, and connected to the students who now walk the path we once walked. Our presence, our wisdom, and our encouragement matter deeply to the next generation of Hoos.
How do we keep this spirit alive? Responsibility.
Sacrifices were made for each one of us to attend UVA. Sacrifices are needed for today’s students. What part will you play in this critical time?
I’ve learned to embrace the mantra “don’t bash what you hate but rather promote what you love.” For those alumni who are appreciative of their UVA experience of academic rigor, fellowship, historical connections, and the beginning of lifetime relationships, please do your part to ensure our community remains intact. Practice forgiveness. Protect and recognize our unique contributions. Provide opportunities for others to follow you.
Together, we continue to build and love a community rooted in excellence, mentorship, pride, and belonging.
Go Hoos!
Debby Stroman (Educ class of ’82)
P.S. Connection Opportunity: If you know of anyone interested or working in Sport Analytics, please have them join the new association: The Equity Analytics Movement (T.E.A.M.) Our organization seeks to reduce the diversity divide by offering education, connections, and career advice in this exciting and fast-growing industry. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, an industry professional, or just interested in analytics, we’d love to have you.
Returning to the Grounds: Black Alumni Weekend
One of the most meaningful ways we demonstrate our unity is by showing up for one another and for the students who follow in our footsteps.
This year’s Black Alumni Weekend, happening April 10-12, 2026, is an opportunity for us to return to Grounds, reconnect with friends and classmates, celebrate our shared experiences, and most importantly, be present for current Black students who have asked for our engagement and support.
When students see alumni return—leaders, mentors, and trailblazers who once sat in the same classrooms—they are reminded that they belong at UVA and that their future is limitless.
If it has been years since you walked the Lawn, we invite you to come back. Bring your stories, your wisdom, and your Hoo pride. Your presence matters more than you may realize.
Let us gather again in the spirit of community, fellowship, and celebration.
Read our letter to the Black alumni community
Ubunye Partners with Athletics, Ridley, and the School of Education and Human Development for BAW
The leadership of the Walter N. Ridley Scholarship Fund and Ubunye agreed that a partnership was necessary to further address the needs of our alumni community. Having heard from many alumni about ways to improve communications, reducing duplicative and/or overlapping events, and being more responsive to the attack on Blackness at UVA, this effort has intentionally launched for BAW 2026. The vision of Ridley is to cultivate a thriving community for Black Scholars that amplifies Black Excellence at UVA, empowering scholars to succeed as leaders at the University, in their communities, and beyond. Ubunye will continue to create awareness for the importance of Ridley during these very challenging times for higher education activities that support equality and equity. Special thanks to Marva Jo Camp (Col class of ’83) who leads our BAW connections.
History of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the Impact of Divine 9 Organizations
Monday, April 6 at 7:00 p.m.
In partnership with the School of Education and Human Development
We are excited to offer the first-ever partnership with the School of Education to promote reading and critical thought with our community. This event will explore how structured engagement through Divine 9 organizations has supported student persistence during their time on campus and the responsibility of these organizations in today’s campus climate. Education professor and Omega man, Derrick P. Alridge, will join his co-authors in providing commentary on their book, With Faith in God and Heart and Mind: A History of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. The intention is to host this event every Monday before BAW. Special thanks to Dean Stephanie Rowley (Grad class of ’97)! Stay tuned for virtual and in-person event details.
BAW Black Athlete Celebration: Networking and Soul Food Night
Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m.
In partnership with Athletics
This special event is designed to provide alumni athletes the opportunity to share academic and life lessons with the members of the Black Student-Athletes Offering Service and Support (B.O.S.S.) organization. Invitation Only.
Athlete Alumni Mixer
Friday, April 10 at 4:00-5:30 p.m.
In partnership with Ridley and Athletics
Calling all former UVA Athletes! We welcome you and your guests to stop by the Harrison Olympic Sports Center (connected to the McCue Center) to catch up with former teammates and friends from other teams at the opening of BAW! The Athlete Alumni Mixer will feature a welcome message from Dr. Carla Williams and special guests.
Optional: A tour of the new spectacular Harrison Family Olympic Sports Center and Hardie Football Operations Center will be available before and after the event. Facility tours leave from the Harrison Center lobby at 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. Special gift for all alumni athletes!
BAW Noteworthy Events
Hypocrite: The Musical
Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m. and Friday, April 10 at 7:00 p.m.
Glennis Crosby presents Hypocrite: The Musical, live on stage at The Paramount Theater. Hypocrite: The Musical is a jubilant gospel comedy that tells the remarkable tale of spirited street folks who become unexpected saviors for a dilapidated church in need of redemption. As the story unfolds, prepare to be swept away on a journey filled with laughter, tears, and soul-stirring melodies. With its vibrant characters, uplifting message, and toe-tapping tunes, this musical reminds us that even in the most unlikely circumstances, divine intervention and the power of faith can transform lives. So, sit back, enjoy the show, and remember, your angels are always watching over you.
Tickets may be reserved online, or by phone during Box Office hours by calling 434.979.1333. This play is co-produced by Double Hoo and Richmond native Michael Williams (Col class of ’83, Darden class of ’88).
Sips & Cigars
Friday, April 10
3-9 p.m.
Milk & Honey Restaurant
Join UVA Black alumni at our cigar social, held on the patio of Milk & Honey and hosted by Ted Jeffries (Col class of ’93) & Forty-Deuce Entertainment. Partake in food and drink specials, delicious Southern cuisine, and music DJ’d by Ryan Kersey (Col class of ’06). Don’t miss it!
Black Nostalgia Vol. 4
Friday, April 10
9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Ix Art Park
Get ready for Black Nostalgia, the ultimate Black Alumni reunion party celebrating our community and culture!
Join us at Ix Art Park for an unforgettable immersive experience. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, this event is all about honoring our shared history and future. Register for the Black Nostalgia Party today.
Cocktails and Connections + The After Party
Saturday, April 11
Main event 3-9 p.m., Afterparty 10p.m. – 2 a.m.
Milk & Honey Restaurant
Hey Hoos! Join UVA Black alumni at Milk & Honey for an afternoon of connecting with old and new friends all while indulging in delicious Southern cuisine, specialty cocktails, and cigars. Then, return at 10 p.m. for our afterparty! This event is hosted Doug Bass (Col class of ’94) and Ted Jeffries (Col class of ’93), and DJ’d by DJ WhyBe (Col class of ’95). Come for what is sure to be a memorable night!
Remembering Rev. Jesse Jackson
“I may be poor,
But I am Somebody.
I may be young,
But I am Somebody.
I may be on welfare,
But I am Somebody.”
We celebrate the life of social justice leader, Rev. Jesse Jackson, who had a connection to UVA. His son, Yusef Jackson (Col class of ’92, Law class of ’96), is a double Hoo with degrees in Government and Foreign Affairs and Law.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. members Gary Flowers (Col class of ’85) (also of the Ubunye Career Advising Committee) and Miles Braxton (Col class of ’18) organized the first stop of their brother in his “Healing and Rebuilding Tour” in Charlottesville in September 2017. Rev. Jackson’s longstanding dedication to justice and healing was admired across the world.
UVA students were blessed to engage with Jackson on topics related to civil rights and voter mobilization. Flowers acknowledges his influence when stating, “Rev. Jackson was more impactful to me in my adult life than my parents. Under his tutelage, I earned a ‘Ph.D.’ in social justice, economic justice, educational justice, and advocating for the locked out and the left behind.”
UVA students were blessed to engage with Jackson on topics related to civil rights and voter mobilization. Flowers acknowledges his influence when stating, “Rev. Jackson was more impactful to me in my adult life than my parents. Under his tutelage, I earned a ‘Ph.D.’ in social justice, economic justice, educational justice, and advocating for the locked out and the left behind.”
“Both tears and sweat are salty, but they render a different result. Tears will get you sympathy; sweat will get you change,” remarked Rev. Jackson. An important message that has much meaning today.
Hoos Getting to Know You
Introducing Rodney “RJ” Rhodes (Batten class of ’23), Ubunye’s co-president! Rhodes, a senior associate in Civil Service Resilience at the Environmental Protection Network, resides in the DMV and has a strong passion for developing young leaders. He has spent countless hours creating, supporting, and promoting soft skills for success in business, government, and nonprofit organizations.
In his prior work at the Partnership for Public Service, he stressed the importance of public service and supporting the people who make government work by contributing to initiatives focused on building stronger, more effective public institutions. See below to learn more about RJ.
A favorite quote?
It is easier to fool someone than to convince them that they have been fooled” – Mark Twain
A favorite vacation spot?
San Diego
What do love about the Black community or being Black?
Our resilience through it all! (plus our food, humor, and artistic nature!)
What do you know for sure?
Jesus is real!
Who do you admire (living)?
My dad and brothers
What gives you hope?
God’s grace and the power of young people!
What would you tell your younger teenage self?
Trust God and stay the course even when you don’t understand how or why!
Good People Doing Good
Celebrating the good work of Blake D. Morant (Col class of ’75, Law class of ’78)!
A native of Hampton, Virginia, Blake came of age on the Hampton University campus through participation in annual summer music institutes, which contributed to his expertise as a clarinetist. He brought that talent to UVA’s Wind Ensemble and Orchestra, where he served as principal clarinetist and concertmaster. His musical pursuits continued as a member of The Glee Club. As a Rhetoric and Communications major with a thesis, Blake developed and honed writing skills that would serve him well at UVA Law and in the practice of law as a U.S. Army Judge Advocate General Corps officer, private practitioner, and a legal academic. A former Dean at Wake Forest University School of Law and The George Washington Law School, Blake now serves as a Distinguished Counselor for The Association of American Law Schools and is a regular contributor to Forbes. His experience in higher education and the moral obligation to contribute to society inspire his scholarship and contributions to Forbes. Also, his friendship with the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who believed in “giving back” to society, heavily influences his writings. When asked why he loves UVA, Blake says he is captivated by UVA’s richness of cultures and breadth of opportunities and that the University broadened his horizons. He is married to Paulette Jones Morant (Col class of ’74).
Claps for Bettina Byrd-Giles (Col class of ’89) for Preserving Family History!
Bettina Byrd-Giles (Col class of ’89) tells the inspirational story of her paternal grandmother, Audrey Bacon Byrd, through film. As the executive producer, Byrd-Giles seeks support for creation of “The Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey’s Story,” which is a captivating documentary series that delves into the extraordinary life of Bacon Byrd. The journey traces her history, including formerly enslaved ancestors who lived in a Texas Freedom Colony, which were self-sustaining independent spaces whereby Blacks could avoid the perils of debt bondage, sharecropping, and racialized violence from White communities. Bacon Byrd experienced a vibrant childhood while living in San Antonio, transformative college years at Tuskegee Institute, and impactful years as an educator in Chicago. At the heart of Bacon Byrd’s narrative is the profound influence of Booker T. Washington. The series skillfully traces how Washington’s teachings and tireless efforts to uplift the African American community left an indelible mark on her life. Connect with Bettina at bettinabyrdgiles@gmail.com to engage her work with your network. To learn more about her work, visit the film’s gofundme.
UVA Black History
Over the years, many students, staff, faculty, and non-university journalists have researched various historical moments and movements about the Black community. Each newsletter will reference two articles or documents of interest.
- The work of Dr. Derrick Aldridge (Ubunye speaker on April 6) – ‘Teachers in the Movement’ Goes Virtual, Links Civil Rights to Black Lives Matter
- President’s Commission on Slavery and the University – In September of 2013, then-President Teresa A. Sullivan formally created the President’s Commission on Slavery and the University and charged the commission with providing her advice and recommendations on the commemoration of the University of Virginia’s historical relationship with slavery and enslaved people.
History Matters: Did You Know?
The history of Black alumni at UVA is filled with pioneers who opened doors, challenged barriers, and shaped institutions across the country. Here are just a few remarkable members of our extended UVA community.
Alice Jackson Stuart was the first Black woman to apply for admission to graduate school at the University of Virginia in 1935. Although she was denied because of segregation, her application helped spark legal and political changes that eventually opened the University to Black students.
Gregory H. Swanson (Law class of ’51) became the first African American student admitted to the University of Virginia after challenging segregation in court so he could pursue a law degree. His courage helped open the doors of UVA to generations of Black students.
Dr. Walter Ridley (Educ class of ’53) was the first Black graduate of UVA and went on to become a respected educator and administrator. The Ridley Scholarship Program, which supports exceptional students, is named in his honor.
Dr. Edward W. Wood (Med class of ’57) and Dr. Edward A. Nash (Med class of ’57) were the first Black graduates of the UVA School of Medicine, paving the way for future generations of physicians and health leaders trained at the University.
Calvin H. Thigpen Sr. (Med class of ’62, Law class of ’74) was a double Hoo, having received an M.D. and Ph.D., respectively, and practiced law and medicine simultaneously from 1974-88.
Raymond Gavins (Grad class of ’67, class of ’70) became the first African American PhD and first Black History professor at Duke University.
Mavis Claytor-Ford (Nurs class of ’70) was the first Black woman admitted to the UVA School of Nursing and the first African American to earn a nursing degree from the school. She later became a respected leader in nursing and healthcare administration.
Sandra Wicks Lewis (Col class of ’72) became the first African American woman undergraduate to graduate.
W. Frank Fountain became the first African American president of the UVA Law School Foundation and later served as a senior executive at DaimlerChrysler.
These pioneers remind us that the Black presence at UVA has always been defined by courage, excellence, and a commitment to making the University better for those who follow.
Every time we return to Grounds, mentor a student, or share our stories, we honor the legacy they helped create.
These individuals represent just a small sample of the thousands of Black UVA alumni whose leadership continues to inspire future generations.
Cavaliers indo para o Brasil
Save-the-Date! Global Road Trip for the Hoos
UVA and NC State football will face off in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on August 29, 2026. Thanks, ACC!
Also a huge thank-you to Donna “DeeJay” Johnson (Col class of ’84), Ubunye recording secretary, for her travel coordination.
There are three travel packages:
- Platinum, which covers August 25-30
- Gold, which covers August 26-30
- Silver, which covers August 27-30
Airfare is not included in any package. Alternatively, one can pay a $100 deposit to purchase game tickets without a package once final ticket prices have been determined.
Ubunye, Black Bus Stop on the Road (BBSR), and Black UVA Alumni Road Trip (BUVAART) groups will further examine the trip packages made available. If there is a way we can make cultural activities a part of this amazing experience, we will do so. Together.
If you wish to stay in touch with our Brazil planning, please send a note to ubunyeuva@gmail.com.
Pour It Forward in D.C.
Pour It Forward: The Underdog Spring Affair
May 2, 2026
3-7 p.m.
Lucha Rosa Rooftop
Come to Pour It Forward: The Underdog Spring Affair for a night of networking, curated cocktails and bites, music and celebration, all while supporting mentorship opportunities for student athletes. Proceeds benefit I AM UNDERDOG INC and partner school, Elizabeth Seton High School. Early Bird ticket sales end April 21.
Ubunye Assists with UVA Pipeline
Kudos to Vicky McPherson (Col class of ’96) and Rodney Rhodes Jr. (Batten class of ’23), who continue to lead the charge to ensure that our top talent is made aware of and takes a strong interest in being Wahoos. With their commitment and guidance, Ubunye partnered with Partnership for the Future to host another UVA Pipeline webinar event on March 4. Black UVA alumni from various generations, majors, and fields shared panel insights on their college experiences with prospective high schoolers in the Henrico, Virginia area. This event was the second pipeline event; the first successful event took place in January.
Alumni interested in supporting this work to strengthen the Black undergraduate pipeline at UVA can contact these leaders directly: McPherson at vickybmcpherson@gmail.com and Rhodes Jr. at r.rhodesjr8@gmail.com.
Collaboration with UVA Affinity Interest Organizations
To build upon last June’s successful gathering in Washington, D.C. and the ongoing Leadership Summits, the next alumni “people of color” mixer will be held this June. The Bolívar Network was founded in 1997 to support Hispanic/Latino/e students and alumni through networking, community events, and scholarships. The Asian and Asian Pacific American Alumni Network (AAPAAN) was conceived in the summer of 1998 as a collaboration of the Asian Student Union President and the Alumni Association. The largest minoritized interest group, AAPAN is dedicated to supporting the greater Asian community and those who have an interest in their multifaceted cultures. More details coming soon!
Stay Connected with Ubunye
Ubunye is building a vibrant network of Black alumni across the country and around the world. Whether through mentorship, professional connections, alumni gatherings, or simply staying informed through our newsletters, your engagement strengthens the entire community.
Do you have news to share with the Ubunye community? Please let us know about your promotions, new business ventures, family updates, or any accomplishments you’d like to celebrate with fellow alumni! Questions or submissions? Contact ubunye@virginia.edu.
Let’s continue to share the good news of Black alumni happenings, so please repost our activities, events, and news to your Hoo and non-Hoo networks. Follow us on IG @ubunye_uva and join the Black alumni groups on Facebook and LinkedIn.