Alumni Association Activities Highlight Black History Month
The University of Cincinnati Alumni Association’s recognition of Black History Month will revolve around a series of events, held virtually, throughout February. Including the African American Alumni Affiliate’s annual gala honoring standout members of UC’s African American family, fun networking opportunities, and an historical look at philanthropy, the month offers numerous ways to come together.
“During Black History Month, we’re pleased to pay special attention to the many members of the UC community whose unique perspectives, experiences and achievements have added so dynamically to the rich mosaic of the university itself,” said Jennifer Heisey, the UC Alumni Association’s executive director and UC Foundation vice president of Alumni & Donor Experience. “Together, we reflect on the immeasurable power of a fully inclusive educational experience, we honor the excellence and achievements of our Black students and alumni, and we celebrate Black history as UC history and American history.”
UCAA Black History Month Events
2021 Kuamka Extravaganza: Fix Your Crown
Date: Feb. 1-6
The UC African American Cultural & Resource Center continues its 20-year tradition of hosting this weeklong celebration, with Kuamka pageant activities shown live on the AACRC’s Facebook page.
Black History Virtual Trivia Night
Date: Feb. 11, 7 p.m.
This fun social event offers the chance to meet other Black UC alumni while competing for various prizes.
Madam CJ Walker’s Gospel of Giving: A History of Black Women and Philanthropy
Date: Feb. 17, 6:30 p.m.
Professor and historian Tyrone McKinley Freeman, PhD, offers insight on a seminal figure in Black history and shares a variety of stories about her.
7th Annual Onyx & Ruby Gala
Date: Feb. 24, 6:30 p.m.
Hosted by UC’s African American Alumni Affiliate (4A), the Onyx & Ruby Gala will honor six alumni, staff and students for their leadership and impact on their fellow Bearcats. The event will also enlist support for the Shani Scholarship Fund which helps provide study-abroad and international co-op opportunities for Black students.
Black History Virtual Paint Party
Date: Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m.
4A presents a unique experience in which participants, working individually but also virtually as a group, create their own paintings with instruction provided by event partner Soul Palette, LLC.
Related Stories
UC Foundation reveals 2025 philanthropy winners
October 27, 2025
The University of Cincinnati Foundation recognized its Outstanding Philanthropic Volunteer Award honorees at the George Rieveschl Recognition Dinner on Oct. 23, 2025.
Founders+Funders honors Greg Wolf and sports’ power to transform lives
October 23, 2025
Bearcat for Life Greg Wolf served as a champion for student-athletes and the greater UC community during his lifetime and continues to inspire, serve and change trajectories through his legacy.
Gardner Family Foundation invests $20 million in UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute
October 23, 2025
The University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute receives a transformative $20 million gift from the James J. and Joan A. Gardner Family Foundation to advance lifelong brain health at every stage of life.