Africana Studies

Image of africana studies professors and students at graduation

Africana Studies is devoted to the academic study of the history, culture and politics of African, African American, Afro-Latin, Afro-Caribbean and Afro-European populations. This interdisciplinary program employs analytical tools from fields such as Sociology, Literature, and History to explore important social issues facing people of African descent in continental Africa and throughout the African Diaspora.

The Department of Africana Studies encourages research and scholarship in many dimensions of African and African American experiences. The faculty and staff feel that the task of bringing about needed changes in this society rests with those who are intellectually prepared.

The department also seeks connections with the community -black, white and other- in Cincinnati. A commitment to social activism has been, is, and always should be a dimension of a program based in large part on justice.

1

New hires reflect UC’s commitment to research, innovation and impact

November 6, 2025

With the 2025-26 school year in full swing, the College of Arts and Sciences has welcomed five faculty members to lead departments that span from chemistry to journalism. Dean James Mack said these new hires “reflect our unwavering commitment to ‘Discovery in Action,’ as we continue to enhance our academic and research excellence”. With these additions, the future of UC is in good hands, and students can look forward to new opportunities for learning, research, and innovation.

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Members of A&S community to be honored at Onyx and Ruby Gala

February 14, 2025

At this year’s 11th annual Onyx & Ruby Gala, two members of the Arts and Sciences community will be celebrated: Candice Matthews Brackeen, A&S ‘04, and Jaela Kennedy, A&S ‘25. Each year the UC Alumni Association’s African American Alumni Affiliate hosts the Onyx & Ruby Gala to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of six esteemed alumni and students. The gala also serves as a fundraiser for the Shani Scholarship, providing students with the opportunity to study abroad. This year’s gala will take place Feb. 22 at Great American Ball Park.

3

Black FUTURE month underway with something for all

February 10, 2025

Get ready for a month full of celebrations, from galas to thought-provoking conversations to delicious food! Black FUTURE Month, sponsored through UC’s College of Arts and Sciences, is underway to observe Black History Month.

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