LBC: one step closer
The black studies major was a goal on LBC's List of Demands.
Published Jan. 31, 2006
After issuing a List of Demands to Chancellor Brady Deaton in March, the Legion of Black Collegians has made some much-anticipated progress in achieving its goals.
One of its demands, to turn the black studies program into a fully accredited major, is "already underway," according to Director of Student Life Mark Lucas.
"For diversity to be infused throughout campus, experiences have to come from inside and outside of the classroom," Lucas said. "To get an actual major from the black studies program is great opportunity for majority students and African-American students."
According to Lucas, Provost Brian Foster is working with Julius Thompson, director of the black studies program, to develop the major.
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Cathy Scroggs said she and Deaton met with members of LBC last semester to discuss making the black studies program a fully accredited major.
She said Thompson already has been at work to make the idea a reality.
LBC also is trying to contribute to the process by looking for more professors for the department and working with the program to figure out what is necessary to stretch it to its fullest potential.
"There's already lots of talent in the black studies program," LBC President Meggan Marberry said.
The program is offered as a minor or as part of a double major.
Once the program is established as a major, it will be up to the students to "run with it," Marberry said.
"It will develop into whatever the students take it to," she said.
Marberry said she has confidence that the black studies program will continue to grow.
Once a student gets involved in the program, he or she will find the major nothing like they expected, Marberry said.
As far as achieving other demands, such as naming a campus building after an influential black figure, Marberry said Deaton has been "extremely supportive."
Scroggs said naming a building also was an issue brought up during her and Deaton's meeting with LBC last semester.
She said this idea is in the works. LBC members looked into naming one of the new residence halls after a famous black figure last semester.
"At this university, Chancellor Deaton has interest in every student but especially African-American students," Marberry said. "He is very willing to listen to our causes."
Other issues on LBC's List of Demands include an increase in black faculty and staff, higher black enrollment numbers and an expansion of the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center.