Five Years of Impact: Black Alumni Advisory Council Continues to Strengthen the Red Hawk Community
Since its founding in 2021, the reimagined Black Alumni Advisory Council (BAAC) has grown into a thriving community of Red Hawks dedicated to building connections, supporting students and alumni, celebrating Black excellence and strengthening engagement across the University. As BAAC marks five years, its impact continues to inspire alumni to stay connected and give back.
Five years ago, a group of passionate alumni came together with a shared vision: to create a space where Black alumni could connect, celebrate their experiences and strengthen their ties to Montclair State University. Today, that vision has become the reconceptualized Black Alumni Advisory Council (BAAC), a vibrant alumni community that continues to make a meaningful impact across the University.
Since its inaugural gathering during Homecoming 2021, BAAC has grown into a network of alumni leaders, mentors, advocates and philanthropists who are helping shape the future of alumni engagement at Montclair.
“The Black Alumni Advisory Council (BAAC) represents what is possible when alumni come together around a shared commitment to community and the University,” said Jeanne Marano, associate vice president for Alumni Engagement. “Over the past five years, the BAAC has created meaningful opportunities for alumni to reconnect with one another, celebrate their accomplishments and experiences, provide mentorship, share their professional expertise and give back. We are grateful for our engaged alumni and we look forward to seeing how this community continues to grow and make an impact on generations of Red Hawks to come.”
Building a Community That Lasts
Connection has been at the heart of BAAC's mission since day one.
The council's first Homecoming gathering provided an opportunity for alumni to reconnect with classmates, meet fellow Red Hawks and celebrate their shared experiences. What began as a single event has evolved into an important tradition, bringing alumni back to campus year after year.
Beyond Homecoming, BAAC has created opportunities for alumni to engage throughout the year through programs that celebrate culture, community and belonging. Among the most anticipated is the council's Juneteenth celebration, which brings together alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of the University for a time of reflection, fellowship and celebration.
Through these events, BAAC continues to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive community where alumni can build lifelong relationships and strengthen their connection to Montclair.
Supporting Career Growth and Professional Success
A defining pillar of BAAC's work is helping students and alumni navigate their personal and professional journeys.
Each February, BAAC hosts its annual Black History Month Career Panel and Networking Event, bringing together accomplished alumni from a wide range of industries to share career insights, leadership experiences and professional advice.
The event creates valuable opportunities for students and young alumni to expand their networks, explore career paths and learn from professionals who once sat in the same classrooms. These conversations not only provide practical guidance but also demonstrate the power of alumni engagement in supporting future generations of Red Hawks.
Honoring Legacy While Investing in the Future
Giving back is a central part of BAAC's mission.
A Night to Remember Gala Celebration, brought alumni and friends together to honor the legacy of James Harris '68, '70 MA while raising support for student-focused initiatives, including the Emergency Book Fund, EOF Book Fund and James Harris Book Fund.
The evening celebrated the achievements of those who helped pave the way for future generations while reinforcing the council's commitment to student success.
BAAC has also expanded its philanthropic efforts through 83 and Me, an initiative that encourages alumni to join The President's Club, Montclair State University's leadership giving society. Through monthly recurring gifts of $83.34, alumni can make a lasting investment in student success and the continued growth of the University.
“83 & Me began with a simple goal: making philanthropy more accessible for alumni,” said Al-Nesha Jones, Black Alumni Advisory Council member, “Whether someone gives $83.33 a month, $10 a month or makes a one-time gift, every contribution helps create opportunities for Montclair students. When alumni come together to give, the collective impact is powerful.”
Looking Ahead
As BAAC celebrates its fifth anniversary, its mission remains as strong as ever: to connect alumni, foster engagement and create opportunities to support both the University and one another.
From Homecoming celebrations and cultural programs to mentorship, philanthropy and advocacy, BAAC has demonstrated the powerful role alumni can play in strengthening the Montclair community. And as the BAAC community grows, so too does its impact on generations of Red Hawks to come.
Learn More
For more information about the Black Alumni Advisory Council or to get involved, contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at alumni@montclair.edu or 973-655-4141.
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