Celebrating Legacy and Progress: The UNC Black Alumni Reunion

The UNC Black Alumni Reunion stands as a testament to the enduring legacy, resilience, and contributions of Black students and alumni at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This annual event bridges generations, fostering connections and providing a platform to address both the triumphs and ongoing challenges faced by the Black community within the university and beyond.

A Milestone Celebration: Fifty Years of Black Morehead-Cain Excellence

One notable event was the three-day reunion, "A Family Reunion: Fifty Years of Black Morehead-Cain Excellence," which celebrated the 50th anniversary of Harvey Kennedy ’74, the Morehead-Cain Program’s first Black graduate. The idea for this special event stemmed from conversations among Black alumni at the Morehead-Cain’s 2022 Alumni Forum, according to Jessica (Lynch) Jolley ’10, a steering committee member.

The reunion, held from October 25-27, brought together alumni spanning five decades. Attendees also celebrated other pioneering members of the Black Morehead-Cain community, including Karen Stevenson ’79, who serves as chief magistrate judge for the Central District of California. She is an elected member of the American Law Institute, a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation, and co-author of Rutter Group Practice Guide: Federal Civil Procedure Before Trial.

Harvey Kennedy ’74 is defined by the way he lights up a room when he enters, and by the impact he has on everyone around through his personal and professional pursuits.

The Foundation of Progress: Remembering the Pioneers

To fully appreciate the significance of the UNC Black Alumni Reunion, it's crucial to acknowledge the trailblazers who paved the way. In 1951, Harvey Beech, James Lassiter, J. Kenneth Lee, Floyd McKissick, and James Robert Walker became the first Black students to enroll in the school's law school. Four years later, Leroy Frasier, John Lewis Brandon, and Ralph Fraiser broke barriers as the first Black undergraduates at the university.

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These individuals faced immense challenges and discrimination, yet their courage and determination opened doors for future generations. Their legacy serves as a constant reminder of the importance of perseverance and the ongoing need to fight for equality.

The Black Student Movement and Student Leadership

The establishment of the UNC Black Student Movement in 1967 marked a pivotal moment in the university's history. This organization provided a platform for Black students to advocate for their rights, address issues of racial injustice, and build a sense of community.

In 1972, Richard Epps, Jr. made history as the first Black student elected as Student Body President. His election was a monumental achievement, symbolizing the growing influence and leadership of Black students on campus.

Congresswoman Valerie Foushee, a Chapel Hill native and UNC alumna, emphasized the significance of Epps's accomplishment, stating, "The fact that Richard Epps, Jr. was able to be a trailblazer and to act in that role as Student Body President was a monumental situation. And certainly we've all benefited from it in some way."

Activism and Advocacy: A Continuing Tradition

The spirit of activism and advocacy has remained a constant throughout the history of Black students at UNC. Allan Younger, who attended school from 1985-1990 and serves as the Planning Committee Chair for the UNC Black Alumni Reunion, highlighted the various causes that students have championed over the years.

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These efforts have included advocating against apartheid in South Africa, fighting for fair treatment of university employees, and ensuring that Black students and faculty receive the recognition and respect they deserve.

Bridging Generations: The Importance of Connection

The UNC Black Alumni Reunion plays a vital role in bridging the gap between current students and alumni. Allan Younger emphasized the importance of this connection, stating, "It's important for the students to interact with alumni, and it's important for alumni to be inspired by the great work of the students today."

These interactions provide students with valuable mentorship opportunities, career guidance, and a sense of belonging. Alumni, in turn, are inspired by the energy, passion, and commitment of current students.

Addressing Contemporary Challenges: DEI and Representation

The reunion also serves as a forum to address the challenges that Black students continue to face at UNC. Jaleah Taylor, the UNC Student Body President, has made it a priority to address the current political climate and its impact on Black and brown students.

Taylor noted, "There's been so many issues that have come up in the past year, especially the removal of diversity, equity, inclusion, and that heavily affects and impacts black and brown students on our campus. I wanted to be able to serve in that capacity to make things a little bit more transparent, and communicate solutions to the student body."

The 2023 US Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action has raised concerns about the future of diversity at UNC. Data indicates a decrease in Black student enrollment following the ruling, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and advocacy.

Congresswoman Foushee stressed the importance of remaining focused on the goal of equity and inclusion, stating, "There are some issues now as it relates to diversity, equity and inclusion and that may prohibit success in a way that we'd like to see it continue. I think we have to keep our eye on the ball and not rest on our laurels."

Overcoming Misconceptions and Embracing Opportunity

Allan Younger spoke about the persistent misconception that Black students are only admitted to UNC due to "exceptions to the rule" or that they are taking someone else's spot. He emphasized the importance of seeing Black individuals in leadership roles to dispel these harmful stereotypes.

Congresswoman Foushee encouraged Black students to persevere despite the challenges they may face, stating, "Don't let all of the rhetoric stop you from taking the opportunity to be successful… Understand that it's the 'People's University', and we're all a part of being the people of North Carolina."

The Fight Continues: A Call to Action

The UNC Black Alumni Reunion serves as a reminder that the fight for equality and inclusion is far from over. As Allan Younger stated, "It's still a fight. The fight continues."

The reunion provides a space for Black alumni and students to come together, share their experiences, and strategize for the future. It is a call to action to continue pushing for progress and ensuring that UNC remains a welcoming and supportive environment for all.

Inspiring Future Leaders: The Legacy of Service

The legacy of Black leaders at UNC continues to inspire current students like Jaleah Taylor. Her internship in Representative Foushee's office has reinforced her commitment to serving the state of North Carolina.

Taylor's work to address food insecurity on campus demonstrates the ongoing dedication of Black students to making a positive impact on their community. Her plan to allow students to donate their dining swipes to students in need exemplifies the spirit of service and compassion that defines the Black alumni community.

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