BSU to host gala tonight

Posted on Feb 13 2015 - 9:13am by Alexis York

The Black Student Union will host their Second Annual Black History Month Gala today at 6 p.m. at the Jackson Avenue Center.

Briana O’Neil, president of the Black Student Union and organizer of the first annual Black History Month Gala, saw an opportunity to increase student involvement while celebrating with the first gala.

“This event brought together students who were not typically involved on campus, and it gave them a way to be involved and celebrate black history,” O’Neil said.

Leah Gibson, the gala logistics chair, hopes it will be a representation of people from all walks of life coming together in celebration of how far our nation has come.

“The BSU has a vital role in the diversity climate on campus, and I am hopeful this event will be more than an average social gathering,” she said.

This event was created to celebrate Black History Month while also honoring the staff and student body of the university who make events like this happen. An awards ceremony will take place during the gala, and the Dr. Donald Cole Award will be presented.

O’Neil said she is excited for the opportunity to recognize African-American involvement throughout the community.

“This gala gives us a chance to celebrate African-American history with fun and entertainment,” she said. “It is just a huge celebration with fellowship and to enjoy simply being together.”

The Black Student Union is proud of the hard work and effort put into planning this night of celebration and is expecting quite a large turnout.

The gala is open to the public, and admission is free for students, faculty and staff.

Tickets for the gala will be available at the Ole Miss Box Office until 4 p.m. today.

Alexis York