Brandon University will mark Black History Month in February with a series of events designed to foster learning, mentorship, and celebration, featuring nationally recognized scholar Dr. Bukola Salami and a student-focused community celebration led by the Loy Excellentia Initiative.
"Black History Month gives us an important opportunity to learn together and to reflect on how institutions can better support Black students and communities," said Cheryl Fleming, Diversity and Human Rights Advisor at Brandon University. "These events invite meaningful dialogue across campus while centring Black voices and lived experiences."
Dr. Bukola Salami, a professor at the University of Calgary and Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in Black and Racialized People's Health, will visit campus next week on Feb. 9 and 10. Her visit includes a mentorship session for Black and racialized nursing students, a faculty-focused professional development session, and a public lecture open to the wider community.
"Dr. Salami's work bridges research, policy, and lived experience," said Dr. Candice Waddell-Henowich, an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Health Studies at BU who helped bring Dr. Salami to campus. "Her visit supports both student learning and broader institutional capacity-building around equity, health, and inclusion."
The public lecture, Access to Healthcare for Black People in Canada, will draw on national survey data and qualitative research to examine systemic inequities in healthcare access and outcomes.
Black History Month celebrations will continue on Feb. 14 with an event hosted by the Loy Excellentia Initiative, with BU professor Dr. Balfour Spence delivering a keynote on "Unravelling Black History in Canada: Acknowledging the Past and Mentoring the Future."
The event also invites Black-African students to come together for an afternoon of music, food, activities, and cultural celebration.
"This celebration is as important as reflecting on our past achievements, as this year's national theme focuses on honouring Black Brilliance across generations," said Dr. Aloysius Anyichie, an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education at BU and organizer of the Loy Excellentia Initiative event. "This gathering is about community, excellence, and creating spaces where Black students feel seen and supported."
Together, these events reflect Brandon University's commitment to equity, learning, and community engagement during Black History Month and beyond.
For full event details and registration information, visit Brandon University's online events calendar.
