Celebrating 150 Years of Black Excellence
In 1875, Edward McKnight Brawley became the first African American to receive a degree from Bucknell University. His achievements laid the foundation for generations of Black excellence to follow.
This year marks the 150th anniversary of Brawley's graduation — a celebratory milestone. To commemorate this moment, we're honoring the legacy of generations of Black Bucknellians and highlighting their remarkable achievements and contributions over the past 150 years.
This recognition goes beyond one historic moment. Through stories, events and initiatives, we are honoring resilience and impact, reflecting on the progress we’ve made and committing to the work that remains.
The Griot Institute Spring 2025 Conference
Decolonial Education & Liberatory Learning
March 28–30, 2025
Workshop with the keynote speakers on March 29
The Griot Institute for the Study of Black Lives & Cultures will host a speaker series and conference related to the theme Decolonial Education & Liberatory Learning, as part of their annual lecture and performance series. Alumni are welcome to join us.
Featured guest speakers:
- Michael Sawyer — Associate Professor of African American Literature & Culture in the Department of English at the University of Pittsburgh
- J.T. Roane — Assistant Professor of Africana Studies and Geography at Rutgers University; Author of Dark Agoras: Insurgent Black Social Life and the Politics of Place
- Justin Hosbey — Assistant Professor of City & Regional Planning at UC Berkeley
- Teona Williams — Presidential Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Geography at Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences
Giving
Your choice to make a gift today immediately impacts Bucknell students and provides vital resources that strengthen the University. The Brawley Fund provides funds for student activities that promote learning outside the classroom, such as research and internship opportunities. Gifts to this fund also support students who were underrepresented in these areas in the past.
You may also direct your gift to these funds that benefit Black Bucknellians:
- Anti-Racism Fund
- Equity & Inclusive Excellence
- Multicultural Student Services
Stay Connected
Email diversity@bucknell.edu to be added to the weekly calendar of events or join the Black Alumni Group on LinkedIn to connect with fellow Bucknellians.
150th Celebration
Oct. 3–5, 2025
Homecoming Weekend
Join us during Homecoming Weekend, Oct. 3–5, 2025, as we commemorate 150 years of Black history at Bucknell. This milestone celebration will feature a series of special events on campus honoring the contributions and achievements of Black students, alumni and staff throughout Bucknell’s history. Stay tuned for more details coming soon!
Alumni of Color events
Join Vernese Edghill-Walden '87 for an enriching event series focused on diversity, equity and inclusion.
These events will provide a space for us to come together, celebrate our differences and engage in meaningful discussions about the importance of equity and inclusion in today’s society.
Learn more using our alumni, parent and family events calendar.
Martin Luther King Jr. Week
An annual series of events at Bucknell honors the life and legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. through questioning, learning, discussion, community engagement and art.
