Department of Africana Studies
Oscar Ritchie’s Legacy Continues to Inspire
A key figure in Kent State's Black History, Oscar Ritchie continues to inspire generations of students and educators.
Moving the ‘BUS’ Forward to Maintain its Strong Legacy, Honor its History
Julian Grimes, president of Black United Students, one of Kent State University's oldest student organizations, is working to maintain the legacy of the organization credited for starting the formal observance of February as Black History Month.
South African Students Embraced by Their 'Cousins' Upon Arrival at Kent State
Sounds of joyful singing could be heard coming from Oscar Ritchie Hall, when a group of nine students and their professor from the University of Fort Hare in Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa, were welcomed to Kent State University as part of an exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in South Africa.
MEDCAMP Provides Transformative Experience for Kent State Students
Every year, the Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) organizes an impactful three-day program known as MEDCAMP, aimed at nurturing young minds interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. This year, thanks to a new scholarship program, a group of 16 Kent State University students regi…
Summer Study Abroad: Exploring Racial Histories of the United States and South Africa
Racial discrimination and segregation have left indelible marks on the histories of both the United States and South Africa. These legacies have shaped societies and continue to influence contemporary conversations on equality, justice, and progress. Despite significant strides made over the past se…
Kent State Alum Is Cast in Bravo Network’s 'Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard'
When he was a student at Kent State University, Preston Mitchum, BA ‘08, was heavily involved in student government and other organizations and recalls taking part in a considerable number of campus protests.
Africana Studies Professor Co-Authors Opinion Piece about VP Harris' recent visit to Africa
Talk about wearing many hats! When Felix Kumah-Abiwu, Ph.D., associate professor of Africana Studies at Kent State University, is not making final preparations for taking students to South Africa (later this month), teaching courses and advising students, he’s writing books and co-authoring an opini…
The Importance of Belonging
Kent State faculty and students discussed belonging and other issues at author Bettina Love's book signing on Thursday.
Kent State Africana Studies Professor Appointed Non-Resident Fellow of Nkafu Policy Institute
The Nkafu Policy Institute recently appointed Ghana native Felix Kumah-Abiwu, Ph.D., associate professor in the Department of Africana Studies at Kent State University, one of its Non-Resident Fellows in Governance & Democracy.