We Define Who We Are
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"Twenty years ago, when I arrived in Chapel Hill as a first-year student in the Summer Bridge Program, I was anxious – yet hopeful – about what the future would hold. Though I experienced several challenges as an undergraduate, my time here was made meaningful by trusted peers, local artists, and University mentors – with whom I cultivated a beloved community. Now, after all this time, having returned to the university as a faculty member and newly appointed Chair of the Carolina Black Caucus, I am once again at the intersection of anxiety and hope; a crossroad at which many of us find ourselves. I am inspired, however, in this moment to take the necessary steps in the direction of hope, cultivating a sense of community within and beyond our organization, carving out space for joy, meaning-making, and collective healing through advocacy. Since 1974, the CBC has cultivated trusting relationships with university leadership, in service to all who call Carolina “home”. For this reason, I am excited to work alongside my colleagues to live up to that legacy, empowering one another – faculty, staff, students, and alumni alike – along this winding road toward the future."​
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Written by:
Donovan A. Livingston, Ph.D.
Chair, Carolina Black Caucus
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Donovan A. Livingston, Ph.D.
Chair of the Carolina Black Caucus
The leadership team is committed to furthering the mission of the CBC and the sustenance of this important organization at UNC. We are dedicated to uplifting the voices of the voiceless and advocating for the most vulnerable among us. The leadership team is working every day to uplift concerns of the Black community and hold the University accountable. In an effort to take action and ignite change, the CBC hosts convening, forums, and panel discussions to provide a platform for the issues most important in our community. The CBC also engages people where they are by hosting social events and professional development opportunities within the local community to help foster a stronger sense of belonging. Whether on or off campus, the CBC leadership prioritizes outreach to the Black community by:
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Engaging communities in constructive dialogue;
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Uplifting and sharing the stories of our Black faculty, staff, and students;
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Celebrating the accomplishments of Carolina’s Black community; and
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Mobilizing the next generation of Black leaders.
If you are interested in joining us in our efforts, please contact us at cbcinfo1@unc.edu.
Membership is open to all full-time administrators, faculty, staff, graduate/professional students, post-docs, and allies who align with our mission. The Caucus offers free membership to Carolina’s housekeeping and facilities staff. Membership dues include discounted rates (when applicable), e-newsletters, membership giveaways, and invitations to member-only workshops, special events, and celebrations.