Organization of Black Alumni
The Organization of Black Alumni is an established alumni identity and affinity group whose mission is to unite, empower, connect, and highlight Wayne State's Black alumni. Together, we make a positive impact on participants, prospective and current students, the university, and the greater Detroit community.
Connect with us
Interest Form
Complete our interest form to connect with a tight-knit group of like-minded Black alumni and allies who are committed to moving the needle forward. OBA community representatives are aligned with opportunities to learn, lead, network, mentor, volunteer, socialize and receive recognition.
OBA Community Interest Form
Upcoming Events

Weekend December Dance Concert at Hilberry Gateway
Friday, Dec. 8
7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Hilberry Gateway
See out latest event photos on Flickr
News

College of Nursing trio celebrates 10th anniversary of graduation and more than a decade of friendship
Umeika Stephens, Tara Walker and McNeill transformed their collegiate study klatch into a relationship that is equal parts professional support network and intimate sisterhood for more than 10 years.

School of Social Work doctoral student wins prestigious Minority Fellowship Program award
Shani Saxon, a fourth year School of Social Work doctoral student at Wayne State University, has much to celebrate after receiving the Minority Fellowship Program for 2023-2024 from the Council on Social Work Education.

Alumna Amyre Makupson follows in mom's career path
CBS News Detroit anchor and reporter Amyre Makupson, M.A. ’06, is well aware of the confusion her matrilineal name typically causes throughout Southeast Michigan.
History
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.