Black History Month Celebration is the celebration of the history, culture, traditions and contributions of African Americans. The celebration is recognized every February. This years theme is “Continuing to Elevate”. We encourage our entire GVSU community—students, faculty, and staff—to join us in this celebration. Participate in the various events and activities planned across our campuses, engage in meaningful dialogue, learn from diverse perspectives, and celebrate the resilience and achievements of Black people throughout history and within our own community. More events to be added!

Black History Month Literature Display

All February 2026

Location: Mary Idema Pew Library (Valley Campus) and Steelcase Library (City Campus)

The Blackout: Black Student Organization Showcase / National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Testing

Thursday, February 5, 2026 - 6:00pm-8:00pm

Location: Mary Idema Pew Library - Atrium (Valley Campus)

The Blackout: Black Student Organization Showcase is an opportunity for students and staff to engage with Black and Afro-led registered student organizations to learn how they can get involved and support. In recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, free testing will be offered for students at the event.

Presented by the Black Excellence program, the Black Student Union, and the Center for Health and Well-being 

GVSU Night at the Museum: As We Rise

Thursday, February 12, 2026 - 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Location: Grand Rapids Art Museum (101 Monroe Center, Grand Rapids, MI 49503)

In partnership with the Grand Rapids Art Museum, join us for a special Night at the Museum curated exclusively for GVSU students during Black History Month.

This immersive evening invites students into a space of reflection, connection, and celebration centered on As We Rise, an exhibition that uplifts Black voices, histories, and creative expression. Through powerful works of art, As We Rise explores themes of community, identity, and power.

Throughout the night, the museum will come alive with sound, conversation, and culture. 

As you move through the galleries, you’ll experience the museum as a place of belonging and dialogue.

Whether you’re coming to reflect, connect with peers, or experience the exhibition for the first time, this Night at the Museum offers a welcoming environment to engage, learn, and rise together.

Whether you’re attending with friends or coming solo, this Night at the Museum offers a welcoming environment to engage, learn, and rise together.

Come as you are—and be part of a night that celebrates culture, creativity, and community.

Reaching New Heights with Jeanette Epps

Thursday, February 20, 2026 - 10:30am - 12:30pm

Location: Devos Center - University Club (City Campus)

Dr. Jeanette J. Epps is a former trailblazing NASA astronaut, aerospace engineer, and CIA intelligence officer whose remarkable career embodies leadership and a steadfast commitment to inspiring the next generation. As one of only a few African American women to fly aboard the ISS, she understands firsthand the power of representation and uses her platform to mentor young people.

RSVP to join us for the chance to meet Dr. Epps to hear more about her inspiring journey of reaching new heights in her career and beyond, and engage with local, black-owned businesses. 

Presented in partnership by the Division of People, Equity, and Culture and the 'Roger That!' Conference.

Ignite The Culture: Black History Month Showcase

Thursday, February 21, 2026 - 8:00pm - 11:00pm

Location: Kirkhof Center - Grand River Room (Valley Campus)

The Black Student Union (BSU), in collaboration with Ignite Dance Company, is hosting Ignite the Culture, an event celebrating Black creativity and culture. The program will feature dancers, singers, poets, musicians, designers, and other creatives.

Sitting at Their Feet: The History of Black GVSU Panel

Thursday, February 26, 2026 - 5:30pm

Location: Kirkhof Center - Grand River Room (Valley Campus)

To preserve history, we must listen to those who lived the moment and tell the story. While technology has given us the ability to access more information across the globe than ever, we often miss out on some of the best lessons from those closest around. Sometimes it's best to just sit at their feet and listen. To preserve history, we must listen to those who lived the moment and tell the story. While technology has given us the ability to access more information across the globe than ever, we often miss out on some of the best lessons from those closest around. Sometimes it's best to just sit at their feet and listen.

Martin Luther King Commemoration

Events are free and open to the public. For information on parking or for individuals requiring special accommodations, please contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs at (616) 331-2177. You may also visit our website at www.gvsu.edu/oma or email us at [email protected].

Black History Month Contact

Phillip Todd
Office of Multicultural Affairs
Grand Valley State University
Email: [email protected] 
Phone: (616) 331-2177