USF 1996-97 Undergraduate Catalog - Page 56

INSTITUTE ON BLACK LIFE

As an outgrowth of the University of South Florida's concern for and commitment to cultural diversity, the Institute on Black Life was established in the Fall of 1986, under the Office of the Provost, to serve as a bridge between USF and the global community. The main purpose of the Institute on Black is to serve as a vehicle to utilize the research expertise of faculty, students, and staff to identify and assist in the needs for research, training, and program development that will enhance the economic, educational, social, political and religious life of the community. The Institute on Black Life provides support and encouragement for African-American and other minority students, faculty, and staff through scholarships, fellowships, research grants, conferences, and program development. The Institute accomplishes its mission through three major components: research, development, and University/community service.

Faculty from various disciplines conduct research in the areas of cultural diversity and other issues critical to the quality of life.

Funding to support research projects is sought through contracts, grants and private foundations. This support assists in either the initiation of new projects or in providing resources to faculty and student research that is already in progress. The Institute holds workshops, seminars and conferences to discuss the findings of its research projects.

The Development component links the Institute with the private sector to establish support for students through scholarships, fellowships, book funds, and program development. The Institute on Black Life seeks funds from private foundations, corporations, and community organizations to assist in recruiting and retaining minority students.

The Institute develops community enhancement programs concerned with minority issues. These programs include a Speaker's Bureau, lectures, workshops, seminars, forums and conferences. These programs are offered in conjunction with civic, non-profit organizations, local government agencies and businesses/corporations.

Center for African Diaspora

In November 1992, The Institute on Black Life initiated an agreement between the University of South Florida and the International Center for Bantu Civilizations (CICIBA) in Libreville, Gabon (Africa); thus becoming the first American university to officially affiliate with CICIBA. The Center for African Diaspora was established within the Institute on Black Life as an out growth of the CICIBA agreement. The Center is a major part of the Institute on Black Life's commitment and ongoing efforts to combine and provide more focus on African issues and activities. The mission of the Center is to promote research and cultural activities through educational, economic, and cultural exchanges between the University of South Florida students, faculty, scholars, and the community regarding the political and socio-economic issues facing Africa and decedents of the African Diaspora.

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Karen M. Hall - webCat@ugs.usf.edu
Effective Date: Semester I, 1996