{"id":186,"date":"2024-04-11T19:14:00","date_gmt":"2024-04-11T23:14:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aig.alumni.virginia.edu\/ubunye\/?p=186"},"modified":"2024-04-15T13:32:16","modified_gmt":"2024-04-15T17:32:16","slug":"upcoming-opportunities-for-connection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aig.uvaalumni.org\/ubunye\/2024\/04\/upcoming-opportunities-for-connection\/","title":{"rendered":"Upcoming Opportunities for Connection"},"content":{"rendered":"

It\u2019s springtime! A special thank you to the Alumni Association and the Division for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for their warm embrace of our new interest group that serves the UVA Black alumni community (~17,000 alumni!). We have lots to celebrate amid our ongoing advocacy for a holistic and healthy University experience for students, staff, faculty, and alumni. There is no doubt there are forces working strategically against our very presence in all institutions and systems in this nation. It is critical that we unify to reduce, if not eliminate, those harmful stressors \u2013 people and policies – that do not promote respect and inclusion for all of humanity. To that end, our Ubunye website is the platform to better connect us and has the potential to be the most comprehensive space to learn, share, and recognize the achievements and history of our diverse community.<\/p>\n

\"DebbyFor example, check out our feature committee, Wellness and Mental Health Advising<\/a>, who has gone above and beyond since our launch to identify resources and share tools in a very creative way. Ubunye supports existing University units and alumni activities, so post your good news and activities. Thanks again for being a part of Ubunye. Please continue to explore the website and engage in the many opportunities to serve and fellowship with Hoos. Onward!<\/p>\n

Debby Stroman (Educ<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201982)<\/p>\n

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Upcoming Opportunities for Engagement<\/h2>\n

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We hope to see many of you back on Grounds April 19-21 for BAW<\/abbr> 2024<\/a>. If you haven’t purchased your ticket yet – there’s still time! Tickets are on sale<\/a> through Sunday, April 14 at 11:59 p.m. ET.<\/strong><\/p>\n

BAW<\/abbr> tickets can only be purchased on the BAW<\/abbr> website<\/a> in advance. Tickets cannot be purchased or altered on-site at Alumni Hall during the weekend.<\/em><\/p>\n

Saturday Night Soiree<\/h2>\n

\"Saturday<\/p>\n

The Division for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion<\/a>, led by Dr. Kevin McDonald, will host a Soiree on Saturday, April 20 at 8 p.m. at the Jefferson Theater. This free event, in collaboration with Ubunye and Divine 9 organizations, is purposed to bring the UVA and Charlottesville community together. The gathering features musical guests and special recognition to local Black business owners in a light and festive atmosphere.<\/p>\n

Doors open at 7 p.m., and a reception with light fare from local caterers like Pearl Island and Vegan Comforts Soul Food will be available from 7- 8 pm. Tickets are sold out by you can join the waitlist online<\/a>!<\/p>\n

Sharing About the Black Experience<\/h2>\n

History matters! The Division for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is sponsoring an effort to share the good news about the Black experience. During BAW<\/abbr>’s Saturday cookout, volunteers will be videotaped by Kindred Media<\/a> about their time on Grounds and essential advice for the next generation. Thanks to all who will participate in this important commemoration that will be used in University marketing and promotions.<\/p>\n

Hoos Doing What<\/h2>\n