Organization of Black Alumni
The Organization of Black Alumni is an established alumni identity and affinity group that strives to unite, empower, connect, and highlight Wayne State's Black alumni.
In September 1989, a reunion gathering of African American alumni evolved into a vision and plan to develop the organization. The founding members celebrated OBA's official induction into the Wayne State University Alumni Association as an affiliate under the unified membership program on October 5, 1992, making OBA the second non-college, alumni constituent group.
The organization has served alumni by hosting major annual events, offering mentorship programs, honoring distinguished alumni with the prestigious OBA Achievement Award, and co-sponsoring the African American Graduation Celebration.
Mission
To unite, empower, connect, and highlight Wayne State's Black alumni. Build a strong community network that makes a positive impact on participants, prospective and current students, the university, and the greater Detroit community.
Connect with us
Complete our interest form to join other Black alumni and allies in networking, exploring events, volunteering, sharing resources, and making an impact through student mentorship, community outreach and sponsorship opportunities.
News
Ron Wood '75, '80College of Liberal Arts and SciencesOBA founder Ron Wood was honored as a 2020 Homer D. Strong Alumni Award recipient for his commitment to mentorship. For more about Ron and the rest of our winners, please visit alumni.wayne.edu/about/alumni-awards. |
 | Organization of Black Alumni looks to extend influence, impactRon Wood, a retired Blue Cross Blue Shield vice president, remembers well how the group came together. It was during a reunion of Wayne State's African American graduates 30 years ago when Wood's friend and fellow Warrior, Dr. Brent Gillum, came up with an idea: Instead of gathering intermittently to socialize, why not create a group that would allow Black graduates to meet regularly to garner support for the university and, just as importantly, future Black graduates from Wayne State? |
Events & Community Forum
The Organization of Black Alumni will host and sponsor a number of exciting events throughout the year to foster a thriving network of Black alumni at Wayne State University, including a Black Student Alumni Ice Cream Social, Homecoming Tailgate, and more!
For a full list of Wayne State Alumni events, visit the event calendar.
