IAAA is instrumental in holding a biennial conference titled: Africa and the Global Atlantic World Conference. This conference is especially significant because it provides faculty and students with the opportunity to showcase their research to a wider audience. Since its inception in 2012, we have hosted three conferences themed: Cultures, Identities, and Racial Violence in the Pan-African World, 2016; Revisiting Black History, Identities and Popular Culture, 2014; Slavery Colonialism and African Identities in the Atlantic World 2012.

Institute for African American Affairs (IAAA)/New World Studies

Currently, the Institute for African American Affairs (IAAA) serves as the research arm of the Department of Pan-African Studies. IAAA supports students and faculty collaboration as well as sponsors workshops for the University and community to train professionals and students in culturally appropriate curriculum and pedagogy. Your gift to IAAA will support programs such as these:

The Uumbaji Art Gallery is a space dedicated to examining themes about global Africa and its diasporas, social justice and other social justice issues facing Peoples of Color. However, it is also a space that embraces themes not directly related to Africa and its diasporas. We exhibit multimodalities of art based on the quality, how it fits within our theme, as well as the interest an exhibition may have for the entire university and surrounding community. We encourage artists to exhibit work that reflects a variety of media, styles and viewpoints.

Since 2017, this creative and cultural enrichment institute is intended to use cultural and academic enrichment to critically and creatively empower youth to be change agents in their communities and beyond. The overall vision of FIAA is to co-create space for young people to be affirmed in themselves so that they are prepared to work effectively in their own best interests.

The African Community Theatre in the Department of Pan-African Studies increases exposure to and knowledge of the theatre heritage of African American for student and local community residents of all ages. Students enhance communication skills and gain awareness and appreciation of the African American heritage as depicted through theatre. Established in 1970, the African Community Theatre brings awareness and appreciation of the experiences of people of African descent as illustrated through theatrical performances.

Center of Pan-African Culture

CPAC is open to all who are looking for culturally diverse activities. The Center not only offers academic enrichment, but social and cultural enrichment through its promotion of local, regional, and international invitations to scholars and artists worldwide to share their ideas and experiences.

This class examines the historical origins of racial images and anti-black perceptions through newspapers, magazines, songs, plays, literature, textbooks, radio, television, films, comic books, etc. and the role of these images in American culture past and present.

Study African politics “in practice” and the achievements and obstacles of the African Union (AU) by meeting with African diplomats and scholars in Washington D.C.; and learn African history by preparing for, attending, and writing about a simulated summit of the African Union in Washington D.C. for one week.

To provide students and community stakeholders with a unique chance to explore 21st century life-at both the village and the city levels-in a modern West African nation.

Study Away/Study Abroad

In DPAS we feel it is critical to engage students in high-impact experiences that have the power to change their perspective on life. By supporting students and altering their world view, we have the greatest opportunity to help them uncover their purpose and passions. Our goal is to prepare students to contribute as globally aware citizens intent on addressing some of the world’s greatest challenges. Your gift to study away/study abroad will support programs such as these: