As a freshman, navigating a new college campus can be daunting to say the least. Being a Black student introduces yet another set of obstacles to the mix. So if you’re feeling a little lost, here is a non-exhaustive list of groups supporting Black students at IU.
IU’s N.A.A.C.P chapter is unsurprisingly one of the top groups for BIPOC students on campus. According to the BeInvolved website, the organization’s goal is to provide education on and spread awareness of minority issues in order to “create a sense of equality and inclusiveness across Indiana University's campus.”
The African Student Association is another useful organization, supporting African-descended students on campus through education on African issues. According to its website, the organization aims “to create a welcoming environment for everyone from every race, creed and religion.”
The ASA also organizes African Night, an opportunity for students to dress in traditional African clothing and experience the culture through food, music and fashion.
The Women of Color Leadership Institute focuses more on BIPOC women and their success, encouraging members with Instagram takeovers, spotlighting each woman’s educational goals.
If you’re looking for the greek life experience, there are many organizations at IU run by Black students for Black students, including Kappa Alpha Fraternity, which was the first Black fraternity to be founded at a predominantly white university in 1911, according to BeInvolved.
There are several sororities supporting Black students, too. A popular choice is the Tau Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, the “oldest Greek-letter organization established by African-American college-educated women,” according to its website.
If you’re looking for groups more relevant to your major, there are organizations like the National Association of Black Accountants, the National Society of Black Engineers, or the Black Law Student Association at the Maurer School of Law, all of which aim to help Black students navigate and reach success in their chosen field.
A more comprehensive list of Black organizations on campus can be found on the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center’s website. If you’d like to connect with other BIPOC students, need help navigating the college experience or are just curious, check out one of these groups.
