Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is marking the 50th anniversary of its Africology and African American Studies (AAAS) department with a series of events running through winter 2026. The commemorative programming includes a film series, an alumni panel discussion, a celebratory dinner, and an exhibit highlighting the department’s history.

The celebration begins in October with films shown in Strong Hall that focus on historical movements and encourage audience engagement. Faculty members Peter Blackmer, Toni Pressley-Sanon, Caralee Jones-Obeng, and Robert Fronta are leading these screenings. The lineup features "Agents of Change," "The Rape of Recy Taylor," "The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution," and "Mr. Soul!" Screenings will take place from October 6 to November 10.

An alumni panel discussion is scheduled for October 10 at the Student Center, followed by an invitation-only celebration dinner that evening. In addition to these events, Halle Library will host a book display from October 1 to 24. Starting in January 2026, the “50 Years of Black Studies” exhibit will be on display at Halle Library Gallery through March.

Victor Okafor, head of the AAAS department, commented on the milestone: “After 50 years, we’re still alive and thriving, which is not a small accomplishment. Over the past five decades, AAAS at EMU has achieved major milestones, from establishing Michigan’s first Black Studies major in 1990 to launching the state’s first master of arts in Africology and African American Studies program in 2018. Along the way, we’ve prepared generations of graduates who have gone on to make meaningful contributions across society, while strengthening EMU’s commitment to a broad-based education.”

The AAAS department began as a center for African American Studies offering only a minor in 1975 before expanding into undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Its interdisciplinary curriculum addresses issues related to race, identity, and culture while preparing students for various careers and civic roles.

Reflecting on his experience with AAAS at EMU, faculty member Robert Fronta said: “The department doesn’t treat learning as separate from the realities of our lives but instead they integrate that understanding into their teaching and programming. Previous panel discussions such as race, gender, and politics or The Future of Black Politics show how the department continues to engage with urgent real-world issues while preparing students to think critically act responsibly and lead with vision.”

For more information about anniversary events or details about EMU's Africology and African American Studies department visit their website.

Founded in 1849, Eastern Michigan University is one of Michigan's oldest public universities serving nearly 13,000 students across undergraduate graduate specialist doctoral and certificate programs. More than 300 majors minors are offered through its various colleges including Arts & Sciences Business Education Engineering & Technology Health & Human Services along with its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for excellence diversity and applied education. Additional information about Eastern Michigan University can be found online.