The Commission for Blacks Dr. Robert Nobles, Chair Dr. Susan Benner, Vice-Chair Dr. Dorian McCoy, Vice-Chair

The Commission for Blacks is a body appointed by the Chancellor to advise on planning, implementation, and evaluation of university programs, policies, and services as they relate to Black students, faculty and staff. The Commission reports to the Office of the Chancellor.

Mission The Commission for Blacks recommends changes in or additions to university policies and procedures to reflect concerns specific to blacks. The group also makes suggestions for new and existing academic and extracurricular programs related to blacks; encourages research to identify the problems and progress of blacks on campus; and encourages black faculty, staff and student involvement in all aspects of campus life.

2017 – 2018 Priorities Build inclusive community by engaging directly with diverse faculty and staff Engage with campus leadership to enhance recruitment and retention AA faculty Enhance/Promote the Black Student Voices Initiative Assess UT’s policy and practice changes related to strategic priority #6 Enhance the CFB liaison role on campus

Annual Activities Trailblazer Award - Recognizing and honoring the accomplishments of African Americans affiliated with the University Black@UT – Annual newsletter Diversity initiative and plan review Provide recommendations regarding institutional needs Celebrate/spotlight/promote inclusive events and faculty activities.

Recent Accomplishments This year, the Commission for Blacks presented three African American Trailblazer Awards to: Dr. Michael Blackwell, former Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Marvelene Moore, Professor Emerita of the School of Music, and Mr. Wardell Milan, UT alum and NYC based artist.

Recent Accomplishments Building an Inclusive Campus Environment CFB hosted a Faculty and Staff luncheon to listen and provide strategic input. CFB partnered with the Clarence Brown Theatre to host a reception and special viewing of the musical Violet for faculty, staff, and students. CFB Student Committee hosted an “In the Mix” mixer in the Pan-Hellenic Building to connect faculty, staff, and students of color. The CFB Student Committee, hosted a town hall entitled “Why Don’t We Speak?” and a community service event geared toward establishing a community garden at Pond Gap Elementary.

Recent Accomplishments Focused on building campus infrastructure Provided recommendations to the Provost Office regarding faculty mentoring and the future faculty program; and helping to initiate a best practices working group. Facilitated listening sessions between diversity faculty groups and the Provost/VCR. Nominated faculty and students for recognition (e.g. Chancellor’s banquet, Quest)

2017-2018 CFB Monthly Meetings Meetings will take place on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Meetings will be held in Hodges Library room 605. August 23, 2017 September 27, 2017 October 25, 2017 November 29, 2017 December 20, 2017 January 24, 2018 February 28, 2018 March 28, 2018 April 25, 2018 May 23, 2018

For More Information Chairs Dr. Robert Nobles, Chair Dr. Susan Benner, Vice-Chair Dr. Dorian McCoy, Vice-Chair Website cfb.utk.edu Contact Sonya Snyder (Graduate Assistant) cfb@utk.edu