- Monday, September 28
- Tuesday, September 29
- Wednesday, September 30
- Thursday, October 1
- Friday, October 2
- Saturday, October 3
- Sunday, October 4
Event: “The Story of Major Harper and Betsy Scott: Pebble Hill’s African-American Family Legacy”
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM (CST)
Event Format: Zoom Webinar
Presenters: Shari Williams & Terrance Vickerstaff
Description: Shari Williams and Terrance Vickerstaff will do a presentation on “The Story of Major Harper and Betsy Scott: Pebble Hill’s African-American Family Legacy.” Shari is a graduate student in the Department of History and Terrance is a descendant of Major Harper and Betsy Scott.
Event: Research to Preserve African American Stories and Traditions
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (CST)
Event Format: Zoom Webinar
Presenters: Robert Bubb, Jada Ashford & Alexis Jones
Description: Robert Bubb and his students will do a presentation on their work with Research to Preserve African American Stories and Traditions. They have stories on Robert Frazier (the first “mascot”) and James Echols, who made lemonade at Toomer’s Drugs. Come and learn with us!
Event: Auburn Abroad
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (CST)
Event Format: Zoom
Presenters: Mariel Goble, Assistant Director
Sarah Riley ’13, Study Abroad Coordinator
Lauren Roalkvan, Study Abroad Coordinator
Naja Williams, Auburn Abroad Intern
Description: Join Auburn Abroad for a relaxed coffee chat to discuss studying, interning, or researching abroad. This time is for Auburn Alumni and potential incoming students to engage with students who have studied abroad. Whether you are exploring studying abroad in the future to want to chat about your past study abroad adventures we look forward to meeting you virtually!
Event: National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Connect – Divine 9 Alumni, Students, & Friends Networking Event
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (CST)
Event Format: Zoom
Presenters/Hosts: Ronny Isaac, NPHC President
Joshua Jones, NPHC Executive Vice President
Naja Williams, NPHC VP of Administration
Jerron Spraggins, NPHC Fundraiser Chair
Benard Goins, Coordinator, Greek Life
Peyton Alsobrook, Development Officer, Student Affairs
Description: Hear from current students and Student Affairs staff about the NPHC Legacy Plaza, learn about upcoming events, and enjoy connecting with fellow members of the Divine 9.
Event(s): Deans Engagement Events
Time(s): 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (CST)
Event Format: Zoom
Description: These events are an opportunity for alumni to engage in meaningful conversation with the Dean of their college or school and other staff in the Dean’s Office.
Event: AU Career Resources for Alumni
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM (CST)
Event Format: Zoom
Presenter: Addye Buckley-Burnell, Associate Director, Career Development for the Auburn University Career Center
Description: Join Addye Buckley-Burnell from the Auburn University Career Center to learn more about the services the Career Center has to offer to alumni up to five years after graduation. This event is geared towards alumni who are up to five years past graduation.
Event: Alumni & Auburn Faculty Happy Hour
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM (CST)
Event Format: Zoom
Host: Chippewa Thomas, Director, Office of Faculty Engagement, University Outreach
Description: Join the Office of University Outreach for a Happy Hour to connect Black alumni and current Black Faculty. Many of our alumni have not had the opportunity to have a Black professor during their time at Auburn so we wanted to create some time for fellowship. Grab a cocktail and let’s connect!
Event: Student Organization Leader Panel
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (CST)
Event Platform: Zoom
Moderator: Alexis Davis, Coordinator for Student Organizations, Student Involvement
Panelists: Ada Ruth Huntley, President, Student Government Association
Adia Foster, President, National Society of Black Engineers
Aleah Horton, President, Auburn Black Graduate and Professional Student Association
Jailin Sanders, President, Black Student Union
Description: Black student leaders at Auburn University have worked to elevate, advocate and advance change in diversity, inclusion and justice alongside peers, friends and allies. Come learn about the different Black student organizations on campus and how you can support.
Video: Josetta Brittain Matthews ‘66 by MOSAIC Theater Company
Event: 18:56 Speaker Series
Time: 11:30 AM (CST)
Event Platform: Facebook Live
Description: Join us on the association’s Facebook page on October 1 , 2020 for the Alumni Association’s Virtual Series 18:56. The series, titled 18:56, is a nod to Auburn’s founding year and allows guest speakers to discuss various topics for 18 minutes and 56 seconds. The Facebook Live is broadcast from the Auburn Alumni Association’s Facebook page and offers viewers the opportunity to ask questions during the broadcast.
On October 1, 2020 we welcome guests Kenneth Reese, Auburn University Freshman and first Black state ambassador and president in Alabama 4-H history and Joy Scott, 4-H Leadership & Citizenship Specialist. You can view past shows at https://www.alumni.auburn.edu/1856-speaker-series
Event: Lunch & Learn: Anti-Blackness and Mental Health
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (CST)
Event Platform: Zoom
Presenters: Shawntell Pace ‘11, Therapist and Doctoral Student at the University of Georgia & Garry Morgan, Special Assistant, Inclusion and Diversity Education for the Office of Inclusion & Diversity
Description: Racism and anti-Black attitudes have been existent in this country for hundreds of years despite the ongoing efforts of Black people and allies to raise awareness of the detrimental impact that racism has had on society. The trauma that Black people have faced in this country has not only had adverse effects on their physical health but also their mental health. During this event, we will discuss the mental implications of historical and current anti-blackness and how to preserve our mental health.
Event: Alumni Panel
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (CST)
Event Platform: Zoom
Moderator: Regenia Sanders ‘95, President, Auburn Alumni Association Board of Directors
Panelists: Shirley Boulware ‘91, Julius Hammond ‘19, Jazzmin Carr ’15, Chacolby Burns-Johnson ‘01, Ronnie Brown ’04
Description: In 1964, Dr. Harold A. Franklin paved the way for future Black students at Auburn. Since then, countless others have inspired us all through contributions in the classroom and their chosen careers. Join us for a night of celebration, education and networking. This event is geared toward students so that they can hear from alumni about their time at Auburn and where they are now.
Event: Virtual Awards Ceremony
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (CST)
Event Platform: Pre-recorded video
Speakers: Gretchen VanValkenburg ’86, Vice President for Alumni Affairs & Executive Director, Auburn Alumni Association
Dr. Jay Gogue ’69, President, Auburn University
Regenia Sanders ’95, President, Auburn Alumni Association Board of Directors
Allen Greene, Director of Athletics, Auburn University
Elizabeth Huntley ‘93, Member, Auburn University Board of Trustees
Award Recipients:
- School of Nursing – Simona Black ’94
- Raymond J. Harbert College of Business – Dr. Randy Bradley ’97
- School of Forestry & Wildlife Sciences – Dr. Victoria David ’99
- Samuel Ginn College of Engineering – Sharlene Evans ’86
- College of Education – Dr. Andre Harrison ’06
- College of Sciences and Mathematics – Sonya Jenkins ’92
- College of Human Sciences – Cheniece Kelleher ’13
- College of Agriculture – Abra Lee ’02
- Harrison School of Pharmacy – Dr. Wade Scott ’76
Description: Join us for a night of celebrating the accomplishments of our Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award Winners.
Event: Chef JRob’s Gameday Grill Out
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (CST)
Event Platform: Zoom
Description: Fire up the grill and get ready to throw down with Chef JRob! He will be showing us how to grill some delicious steaks, wings, pork shoulder, jerk cabbage and roasted corn as well as a cocktail for the Auburn vs. Georgia game. Grab the following ingredients and make sure your grill is set to 330° on Saturday, October 3rd!
Ingredients:
Steaks (cut of choice)
Wings
Pork Shoulder (for pulled pork sandwiches)
Cabbage
Corn on the Cob
Salt
Pepper
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
Ranch Dry Seasoning
Weber Kick’n Chicken Seasoning
Slap Ya’ Mama Cajun Seasoning
Jerk Sauce
Dale’s Steak Seasoning
Cajun Injector Creole Butter
Kinder’s Organic Buttery Steakhouse Seasoning Rub (optional)
Pineapples
Oranges
Malibu Rum
Bacardi Rum Punch Mix
Sprite
Pineapple Juice
Read more about Justin Robinson
Event: Auburn vs. Georgia Football Game
Time: 6:30 PM (CST)
Event Platform: Watch on ESPN
Event: Sunday Fellowship
Time: 11 AM – 12:30 PM (CST)
Event Platform: Zoom
Hosts: Sonya Jenkins ‘92, Nathaniel Rutledge ’90, Abraham Snell ‘94
Description: Come and enjoy some inspirational words from fellow alumni and draw encouragement from connection with other Black alumni. This is the perfect event to end the week.
Dr. Harold A. Franklin Finally Receives Degree
Graduate student Harold A. Franklin was the first African American to attend Auburn University, enrolling on January 4, 1964. Franklin was admitted under heavy guard and was kept isolated from other students in campus housing. Although obstacles of the era prevented Dr. Franklin from completing his degree at Auburn at that time, he went on to earn a master’s degree in history at the University of Denver, and later pursued a renowned career in Higher Education at many institutions. Now, Franklin at 84 years of age and over 50 years since he integrated Auburn University, successfully defended his thesis earlier this year and earned his master’s degree in May 2020.
To celebrate this monumental accomplishment, share your words of congratulations and gratitude for Dr. Franklin as he paved the way for Black Alumni and current students to attend Auburn University. Responses will be compiled and shared with Dr. Franklin as well as on our website and app. Select responses will also be shared on social media.
Thank you to our 2020 Black Alumni Week Sponsors
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Black Alumni Week?
Black Alumni Week will be held from Monday, September 28 through Sunday, October 4.
How do I register for Black Alumni Week?
Online registration is easy – Register Here. For questions about registration, please contact Erin Hutchins at erinhutchins@auburn.edu
How much does it cost to attend Black Alumni Week?
Registration is free! T-shirt will be available for $20. More information to follow.
When does online registration close for Black Alumni Week?
Online registration for Black Alumni Week closes on Sunday, September 27, 2020. Some events do have a limited capacity, so we encourage you to register early to ensure a spot!
What does the registration fee include?
No fees. Registration is free! You can purchase a t-shirt for $20.
Where is lodging available during Black Alumni Week?
Virtual Event. No lodging is necessary.
What is the attire for Black Alumni Week?
The attire for the majority of the Black Alumni Weekend events is casual. We look forward to seeing your face on the screen.
Are children/families invited to attend?
Yes! Children and family members are invited to all Black Alumni Week events. There will be special activities for children throughout the week.
Are there special services available for attendees with disabilities?
The recording will be available with transcript for viewing after the event.
I can’t attend Black Alumni Week, but would like to make a gift to Auburn University. How do I do that?
To make a scholarship contribution, please click here. Thank you for your support.
What is the cancellation and refund policy for Black Alumni Week?
Requests can be made by emailing Erin Hutchins at erinhutchins@auburn.edu by 5:00 p.m. CST on September 30, 2020.
PLUS Scholarship
Donate to the Auburn Alumni Associations PLUS Scholarship and help increase diversity among the undergraduate student population at Auburn University. For more information visit aub.ie/PLUSScholarship
Donate to PLUS Scholarship
Photos from Black Alumni Weekend 2019
Black Alumni Stories
Share your own personal story and add to the history of the African-American experience at Auburn University by clicking the button below.
Alumni can also donate scrapbooks, diaries, journals, letters, photographs and other items related to their time at Auburn University to the Special Collections and Archives Department. In doing this we can ensure that future generations know what life was like for years to come. To make a donation, contact Tommy Brown at 334-844-1733.
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