Ten years after a wave of student activism reshaped conversations about equity and belonging at Rice University, a group of alumni will gather to reflect on the journey.
Back when the Black Lives Matter movement sparked national conversations, college campuses became places where students challenged institutions to improve. At Rice, members of the Students of Color Collective stepped forward, organizing, advocating and envisioning a more inclusive future. Their efforts helped lay the foundation for what would become Rice’s Multicultural Center, creating a lasting impact on campus life.
Now a decade later, those former student leaders are returning to share what they learned from that pivotal moment. They will reflect on the challenges they faced, the victories they achieved and the ways their experiences at Rice shaped their careers, leadership styles and aspirations.
Moderated by Alexander X. Byrd ’90, vice provost for access and institutional excellence, the conversation will feature alumni Blaque Robinson ’16, James Carter ’17, Gabriela Barrios ’16 and Katherine McElroy ’16. Together, they will explore how the lessons of the past continue to inform the work of creating positive change today.
The discussion is part of Rice’s sixth annual Juneteenth celebration, offering an opportunity to honor history, examine progress and consider what transformative leadership looks like for the future. As participants look back on where they have been, they will also look forward to the possibilities that remain ahead.
Hosted by the Office of Access and Institutional Excellence, the event will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. June 12 in room 130 of Kraft Hall with a reception to follow. The discussion will be available via Zoom.