 |
Black Affairs Council
Home Page
“Starting today we make a difference for tomorrow”
Introduction
BAC's purpose is divided into three parts consisting of government, programming, and service. As a governmental body, BAC is a coordinating council for the conglomeration of black students, groups and organizations. By representing them in matters related to black affairs, BAC provides influence and input into the entire university system on behalf of the SIUC black student population.
As a programming body, BAC plans black oriented, cultural, educational, political and social activities, events, programs and projects for the total SIUC student population. BAC's unique programming is designed to enlighten and enrich the minds of SIU students by increasing their awareness of the African-American heritage and establishing a desirable measure of solidarity among black students and the community.
As a service organization, BAC assists and works with campus and community affairs. BAC requires each of its member groups and organizations to put on service projects involving te black community of Carbondale and SIUC. BAC also assists black students, groups and organizations with direct help or by referring them to someone who can help.
History & Mission
Culturally oriented programs have a rich tradition at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.In 1925, a group of students organized the Dunbar Society to promote the "literary, social, and athletic side of the colored student". The Roland Hayes Club, which was named for the famous singer and formed in 1930, mesmerized the Southern Illinois Normal University community with their vocal talents. Together, the Dunbar Society and the Roland Hayes Club were responsible for all of the social and cultural activities for the African American student population during the 1930s and 1940's.
The Black Student Union (BSU), founded in 1968, was established as the direct result of increasing African cultural awareness. Spawned by the BSU, the Black Affairs Council (BAC) became the official unifying agent for all Black Student organizations on the SIUC campus in 1972. Inheriting its mission from its predecessors, BAC provides a singular voice for African American student issues, concerns, and programs at the University.
Through its three primary objectives, governance, programming, and service, the Black Affairs Council addresses the cultural, social, and educational concerns of African American Students. As the coordinating authority of the myriad of Black Student groups and organizations on campus, BAC represents individual and group interests and events, which impact student life.
BAC serves as a resource center for students unfamiliar with campus and community services, programs, and polices. BAC seeks to bridge the gap between the African American Community in Carbondale and the African American population through a variety of programs and community services projects.
Structure
BAC consists of an Executive Council and Executive Committee. The Executive Council and Executive Committee oversee, establish, and implement BAC programs and polices. Together, the Executive Council and Executive Committee act as a guide in the overall administration of the Black Affairs Council.
The Executive Committee is the chief governing, decision, and policy-making body of the Black Affairs Council. Members of the Executive Committee include the elected BAC officials (Coordinator, Assistant Coordinator, and Comptroller), and the four standing committee chairpersons (Campus and Community Affairs, Public Relations, Finance, and Programming).
The Executive Council is the Chief advisory, and policy-hearing body of the Black Affairs Council. The Executive Council is comprised of one representative from each member constituency group.
The official publication of the Black Affairs Council is completely produced by students periodically during the academic year. It addresses issues and concerns of the African American SIUC collegiate community and the Carbondale area.
Southern Illinois University
NAACP
Send E-Mail to: kaerf@siu.edu
Copyright © 2004 Kevin Winstead. All Rights Reserved