More than 300 alumni from seven decades celebrated the first university-wide Black Alumni Weekend October 13-15, 2023. They reconnected with the university community and explored St. Louis, all while celebrating the powerful legacy of Black students, faculty, staff, and alumni at WashU.

Signature events included Black on the Quad Cookout and the Black Alumni Council 40th Anniversary Sneaker Ball. Guests also heard directly from university leaders about how the university engages and supports Black students, faculty, and alumni. Through presentations, tours, and panel discussions, attendees were able to learn about WashU’s efforts to amplify the stories and experiences of the Black WashU community.

highlights of the weekend
conversations with leaders panel discussion
Four university leaders: Kia Caldwell, vice provost for faculty affairs and diversity; Anna Gonzales, vice chancellor for student affairs; Grace James, executive director of undergraduate admissions; and Will Ross, associate dean for diversity and principal officer for community partnerships at Washington University School of Medicine, hosted a conversation about Today’s WashU. It was moderated by Shanti Parikh, chair of African and African-American Studies.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • 2023-10-14--during the 40th Annual WashU Black Alumni Council (BAC) Sneaker Ball in Tisch Park on the campus of Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Attendees of the Black Alumni Council’s 40th Anniversary Sneaker Ball enjoyed a festive evening including dinner, drinks and live music. The BAC collected new and gently worn sneakers to provide to St. Louis residents who need them.

View full album of Black Alumni Weekend
Black Alumni Weekend at WashU: Experience the joy

Questions?

Dontrel SmithAssistant Director, Diverse Alumni Networks