The student club Black Scholars United has planned events, activities and meetings to help improve diversity relations at Weber State University. The club hopes to draw African-Americans as well as students from any culture or race together to form a close-knit family on campus.
Black Scholars United is a national club that exists in nearly every university across the nation. The club at WSU started nearly 40 years ago with the same intent to help unite African-American students on campuses and allow opportunities for other students to learn more about the African-American culture.
According to newly appointed Black Scholars United president Mo Aflegn, there is one main purpose to the club: “to show the African-American culture in a different light and get together to have fun and enjoy new experiences with others. We had a barbecue on Sunday to show what the club was about and that we are still around. It wasn’t as active in the last semesters because we didn’t have enough members, but we are rebuilding and going through a transition.”
The club thinks of itself as a second family in many aspects to provide a social circle for people to grow closer together. According to group member Shate Allen, family and those of her race are important to her.
“I want to connect more with students of my same race as well as other races,” she said. “I want a family not just at home, but at school as well.”
The family support system and connections are important aspects of the group and one of the key elements that draw new group members. Aflegn said being a member of Black Scholars United is more than just being part of a club or organization.
“It’s not just the club, it’s not just the organization. We are a family. If students need help as a member, we will be there for you. If we can’t help you, we will find someone who can. We are more of a family than a club or organization.”
While the Black Scholars Club creates its own activities and projects, it also collaborates frequently with other clubs and organizations.
“We will be participating in several events, including the Expect the Great event on Nov. 3, where we will be helping with resume-building,” Aflegn said. “We collaborate with other groups, clubs and events that help with jobs and panels, and we will even have a speakeasy where Black Scholars United will be represented.”
According to Aflegn, there are no difficult requirements to join the group. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required. There are no fees required to join, but attendance, activity and assistance is required to participate in club activities. Anyone can join the club, regardless of race. Group members meet every other Wednesday of each month to participate in club activities.
