Black History, Belonging, and Inclusion at Elmhurst University

At Elmhurst University, Alexander Blumenberg has stepped into his new role as Executive Director for Belonging and Inclusion and has brought his experience in previous diversity and equity teams to this position.

As Executive Director, Blumenberg reflects on the importance of celebrating black history and embracing diversity year-round.

“When I think about Black History Month, I think of the civil rights movement,” said Blumenberg. “The beautiful thing about the Civil Rights Act is that it was designed to protect everyone. Black history is American history. We’re all in this together, and we’re stronger as a nation because of our diversity.”

Originally, Black History Month was just a week-long celebration called Negro History Week invented by American historian and author Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Black History Month has now been celebrated since 1976 and plays a vital role in acknowledging the great achievements within Black history.

Black History Month is among many ways people celebrate diverse groups and promote belonging and inclusivity. But the real question is what does it mean to belong on a college campus?

It is said that a sense of belonging and student experience are two key factors that contribute to student retention and completion rates.

Blumenberg and the Office of Student Involvement put together a jam-packed schedule of events to fully celebrate Black History Month.

Hair has always been a leading area of black culture and identity, so it’s only right that Black History Month events are kicked off with a quick shuttle bus ride to a beauty supply store for all things hair care.

The following events feature the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) membership drive, a Valentine’s Day event, Baggies and Baes with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and Black Student Union, Black History Heritage Month Celebration celebrating delicious Black cuisine, Afro-Latinidad to celebrate intersecting social identities, a Martin Luther King Jr. lecture, and more.

Blumenberg had a clear vision of how he wanted Black History Month to be celebrated. His goal was to highlight fun, food, and reflection.

“I wanted to create events where students could just relax, have a good time, and enjoy some great food,” Blumenberg said. “But I also wanted moments where we could stop, reflect on what we’ve been through, and prepare for what’s ahead.”

Blumenberg doesn’t plan to apply his new role only to Black History Month. In the long term, he hopes to work toward dispelling stereotypes, creating spaces where everyone feels free to be themselves, and ensuring that the sense of belonging we’re building today lasts well into the future.

Belonging and inclusion are not new concepts and have been at the forefront of the university for years. In September 2023, El Centro de la Promesa Azul was opened in the lower level of Niebuhr Hall, serving as an inclusive space and hang-out area aimed at implementing student success among the EU’s Hispanic and first-generation college students.

Exciting and educational events will be planned under Blumenberg’s leadership as he continues his mission of fostering a campus community where everyone feels they belong, listening to students, and raising awareness about the resources and opportunities EU already offers.

These events will be planned year-round and every month students will have a chance to continue celebrating diverse voices and keep meaningful conversations going.

“Every month, we’ll be spotlighting a specific group,” said Blumenberg. “For instance, next month is Women’s History Month, and I’m excited to highlight the incredible contributions women have made on campus and in the world.”