Southern-Spring 2017

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SPRING 2017 / 3
CAMPUS
The college has a new campus focal point for African-American
and international students.
The Union House, or “The Union,” as it’s being called on
campus, supports the college’s diverse population with dedicated
space to host programs, celebrations, and knowledge sharing.
The former townhouse on Sorority Row was converted to a
multipurpose facility for students to study, collaborate, and hold
meetings and events throughout the year.
The idea began with BSC’s multicultural students, who felt such
a space would help them to better engage with and support each
other as well as benefit the campus. The students have been the
driving energy in all of the planning that’s taken place, said Erica
Brown, director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs, which helped
make the project a reality.
“The Union is truly a community space,” Brown said. “It was set
up to cultivate a sense of belonging for students of African descent
and international students at BSC. At the same time though,
it promotes intercultural dialogue and a connection among all
members of the Hilltop.”
The Union currently houses the International Student
Association, Black Student Union, Black Women’s Union, and
L to r: Charlotte Schorle of Berlin, Germany; Kayla Smith of Memphis, Tenn.; Victoria Hodges of Bath, United Kingdom; and Rod Murray of Washington, D.C.
The Union
New campus space promotes African-American,
international student engagement
Black Men’s Union. It will be the future home of the One-A-
Chord Gospel Choir, Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, and Alpha Phi
Alpha fraternity.
“Attending a predominately white institution is surely a
unique experience for non-white students,” said Kayla Smith, a
junior with a self-contracted major in human rights and justice
who serves as parliamentarian of the Black Student Union. “The
Union is vital for African American and international students
at BSC to fellowship, have their own personal space, and build
those essential strong communities with one another.”
The Office of Multicultural Affairs and the college’s
Interfraternity Council donated a combined $10,000 for
renovations. The 5,000 square-foot building is equipped with
offices on the top floor, a kitchen and lounge area on the main
floor, and meeting space in the basement. It is open to active
members 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Non-members
are welcome during special events or for organization meetings.
“We are working now to obtain additional funds to update and
restore the building,” Brown said. If you are interested in making a
donation, please contact her at (205) 226-4733 or .