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About BSA

The Black Staff Association focuses on initiatives that are susceptible to empowering Black staff members at Florida International University. We are committed to educating the FIU Community about our history, culture, and experiences. We will challenge systemic racism within the institution and society at large. We support mentorship opportunities for Black staff and students to help them achieve their professional and personal goals. Our campus programming focuses on professional development, education, and solidarity. As an organization, we will continue to work collaboratively with other entities and take collective action on campus to address the needs of the Black community at Florida International University.

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Mission

The FIU Black Staff Association shall foster an inclusive environment that promotes empowerment, professional development, and equity for Black staff professionals at Florida International University. We are dedicated to supporting Black FIU students by collaborating with Black-affiliated organizations on campus, to assist in being an additional voice for the Black student and providing mentorship during their academic careers. We are committed to supporting Black FIU staff by assisting in articulating concerns of the Black community and providing mentorship during their professional careers. We believe in unity as a catalyst for change that will impact our society.

Vision

We envision a professional network that will bring together people of black origin to create representation in multiple disciplines on campus, to collaborate, share experiences, and empower each other for impact. We seek to partner with university leaders on critical matters in the Black community that will adequately address inequities. We strive to invest in students through mentorship, opportunities, and key connections to foster success in their educational and career journey. We are focused on transformative conversations that will continue to disrupt systemic racism. We will operate with integrity, professionalism, and intentionality.

Goals

  • Establish a cohesive professional network across Florida International University campuses to build morale in the Black community
  • Create leadership workshops that highlight expertise in various areas for professional development and opportunities for advancement, upward mobility, and career growth of Black staff and students
  • Participate in community outreach projects to maintain a presence in surrounding communities
  • Create a mentorship program to support the Black community at Florida International University
  • Engage with senior administration on critical matters as they pertain to members of the Black community at Florida International University

Committees

  • Leadership & Professional Development Committee

    Co-Lead Daniella Long, Program Manager Public Policy-Leadership & Professional Development

    • The committee will collaborate with various campus and community partners to provide professional development seminars for Black staff.
    • They will suggest campus resources on FIU Develop, LinkedIn Learning, Micro-credentials to further develop professional skills.
    • They will inform members about conferences or programs on campus that are being facilitated by the Black community.
  • Campus & Community Partnerships Committee

    Co-Lead Justin Childs, Admissions Recruiter

    • The committee will take the initiative in leading a professional network across various departments and programs on campus.
    • They will coordinate outreach projects to promote community building through service and engagement.
    • They will seek opportunities to engage with senior administration on critical matters in the Black community.
  • Social Engagement & Networking Committee

    Co-Lead Aliesha Daise, Career Advisor Career and Talent Development

    • The committee will organize social engagement and networking events for members of the Black Staff Affinity group.
    • They will maintain a calendar of events and post additional information on the main Black Staff Affinity Group Teams.
  • Mentorship Program

    Co-Lead Jennifer Williams, Program Coordinator Office of Social Justice and Inclusion

    • They will curate a mentorship program for the Black staff and student community.
    • The committee will partner with current mentorship opportunities for potential collaborations.
  • Marketing & Communication Committee

    Co-Lead Younna Gooden, Assistant Director Residence Life

    • The committee will create marketing materials to disseminate to the university community.
    • They will manage social platforms and channels to provide updated information about our events, programs, and/or workshops.
    • They will assist with public relations as it relates to correspondence for general body meetings.