Posted by Caitlin Joyce on Wednesday, January 31, 2018 at 2:16 PM PST

This Black History Month, we are excited to announce the relaunch of Seattle University’s African American Alumni Chapter (AAAC).

The newly reinvigorated chapter is hosting its first event, “The Black and Brown Panel: What It Means to Be a Person of Color in the Workplace,” on Tuesday, February 20. The panel will address issues important to Seattle U’s black and brown alumni and students and invites all who identify as black or brown to participate. You can learn more about the panel here.

Duron Jones, ’14, is the chapter’s new president and a graduate of the business administration program. He is the owner of the Innovation Tribe of America. Since his graduation in 2014, Duron has stayed active in the SU community as the director of the Summer Business Institute at Albers School of Business & Economics.

Of the African American Alumni Chapter, Duron said, “The AAAC is a community of Seattle University alumni who identify as African American and are passionate about engaging with their alma matter no matter where they live or their interests. We function under three guiding principles and goals, which are to foster and strengthen the community of Seattle University black/African American alumni across the world, engage and support the black/African American student population, faculty, and staff of Seattle University and to be of true service in the community surrounding our alma mater, Seattle University.”

When asked what hopes the chapter had for its continued growth and future, Duron responded that they are most excited for the chance to not only build a stronger community among  alumni, but to also build stronger connections with the Black Student Union and black/African American students on campus. It’s important to the chapter that they be able to support student success through mentorship, internships, scholarships and more. Duron went on to add, “We want the alumni community to know that we have an open door policy. We encourage alumni to reach out to us and share their thoughts because we truly want our African American alumni to feel like they've had the opportunity to help shape the chapter and gain the alumni experience they envision for themselves.”

The chapter invites those alumni who don’t identify as black or African American to reach out for partnership opportunities so that all alumni can work towards supporting the Seattle U community.  

If you are interested in getting involved with the AAAC, Duron invites you to engage with the chapter on SU Alumni Connect. “Reach out to us and let us know you want to get involved and we will help you find your fit,” Duron said.  You can also find the chapter on Facebook. The chapter is still looking to fill a few board positions.

Join the African American Alumni Chapter at their first event on February 20.

Black & Brown Panel: What It Means to Be a Person of Color in the Workplace
Tuesday, February 20, 2018
5:30–7:15 PM
Seattle University Student Center 160, LeRoux Room
Learn more and register.