It’s Black History Month, and there has never been a better time to get involved with Otterbein’s Office of Social Justice and Activism (OSJA) or join a student organization like the Black Student Union, Men of Vision, or Sisters United.

The OSJA and these student organizations are offering a great lineup of events for Black History Month, open to all students.

Men of Vision invites you to attend their Super Bowl Party from 6-9 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11, at the OSJA. It’s free to attend, just register on Campus Groups!

The Muslim Student Association invites all students to attend its Career Night from 5-7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 12, at The Point. This event has been planned to give students a chance to build connections with those in various career fields and to better understand the day-to-day responsibilities of those in these fields. 

The Black Student Union invites you to their annual Black Excellence Ball: Under the Stars with BSU from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17, in Roush Hall, Fisher Gallery. This black-tie, family-friendly event is open to everyone, providing an inclusive atmosphere to embrace the rich culture of the Black Student Union. Don’t miss the chance to attend the second annual ball, promising an evening filled with elegance, unity, and appreciation for Black excellence. Let’s come together to celebrate diversity and unity under the dazzling lights. 

On Feb. 21, students are invited to share their talents at the Open Mic Night and Talent Show from 4-6 p.m. in the Campus Center Lounge. This Black History Month celebration will feature student performances of poetry, singing, dancing, and more. It’s hosted by the Black Student Union, Courtright Memorial Library, and OSJA.    

Finally, Otterbein’s celebration of Black History Month will conclude with the Noble Legacy Series event featuring Otterbein Chief Diversity Officer Frank Dobson Jr., Ph.D., from 2-4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 28, at Church of the Messiah, 51 N. State St., next to Kerr Hall. Hosted by OSJA, the Noble Legacy series fosters discussions on belonging, diversity, and inclusion. It challenges everyone to reflect on their role in these critical areas and encourages a community-wide commitment to social justice and inclusivity.  

Dobson will give a presentation, followed by an interactive dialogue with Dobson and OSJA Director Selethia Benn. This format enables a deeper exploration of Otterbein’s history and current efforts toward belonging. The dialogue allows bettering understanding of the institution’s journey toward social justice, examining past actions and present commitments.  

Come and be MOTIVATED by Dobson, our celebrated Noble Legacy speaker, as he shares his journey and challenges — a powerful testament to the importance of embracing diversity and creating inclusive environments. Be INSPIRED by Viola Burke, the first Black Woman to graduate from Otterbein. Be ENCOURAGED that while not there YET, we are ON THE WAY! FACE the past, FIX the present, and FOCUS on the FUTURE.  

Learn more about these student organizations and more by visiting the OSJA:

• Black Student Union (BSU): Originally founded as the African-American Student Union, and renamed as the Black Student Union in January 2023, this student organization serves to promote unity and cooperation among Black students and all students with similar interests and/or backgrounds. Membership is open to any Otterbein student who supports and respects the heritage, legacies, and cultural traditions of Black people. 
• Men of Vision: Ever since its inception, Men of Vision has been primed with its goal to cultivate young men into professionals, mentoring one another, and making a community from those with various backgrounds and perspectives. By improving ourselves, we enhance the community and the world around us. Men of Vision works collaboratively with other student organizations, such as Sisters United. 
• Sisters United: Sister United serves to develop a sense of community and uplift all women of color in their academic and social endeavors here at Otterbein; to promote friendship, service and cooperation amongst all women of color at Otterbein; and to raise awareness and address the issues of stereotypes against the entire community of women of color.