Interdisciplinary in nature and timely, the minor and individualized major in
Africana Studies explore the roles played by peoples of African descent in
constructing human civilization by analyzing their contributions in many
disciplines. These areas are art, music, history, literature, political science,
sociology, psychology, and others. You will meet great people, have a lot of fun,
and have a chance to make a real difference at UCM and beyond.
Our program seeks to develop students who will teach, research, and understand the worldwide experiences of the peoples of African descent. We hope you will be inspired to achieve social and political change in the contemporary world.
Arissa graduated from UCM in 2017 with B.S. degree as well as a minor in Africana Studies. While at UCM, she studied abroad in Jamaica and won prizes at the Calabash Literary Festival. She served as president of the Africana Studies Club. She is now attending Washington University in St. Louis and is working on a Master’s degree.
The Africana Studies program has been very active in providing study abroad opportunities for student. They have traveled to Jamaica on service learning trips many times. A study abroad to Tanzania, Africa is planned for the near future.
The Africana Studies program is active on campus:
● Participating in campus events
● Bringing in national and regional speakers
● Traveling to regional conferences
● Immersing themselves in social justice causes
The Africana Studies Club is very active in the Kansas City metro region with field trip events at museums and archives.
The Africana Studies program makes annual study abroad visits to Jamaica for service learning opportunities. Click here to read more about our study abroad program.
With strong connections to the Black Archives of Mid-America in Kansas City, you can do hands-on research on history in the region.
Dr. Delia Gillis
Professor of Historyand Africana Studies Program Coordinator
Wood 110
Tel: (660) 543-4404
