Black Alumni Association (BAA)
All members of the Black diaspora who graduate from Saint Louis University automatically become members of SLU's Black Alumni Association (BAA). This lifelong connection celebrates the shared heritage and accomplishments of SLU’s Black alumni and students while fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.
About BAA
Formed in 1984, the BAA celebrates the accomplishments of SLU’s black alumni and students through fundraising, mentoring and fostering University-wide diversity outreach and awareness initiatives. Additionally, the BAA assists the University in its recruitment and retention efforts, helping to create a student population that is racially and ethnically diverse.
Our Mission
The mission of the Black Alumni Association is to:
- Foster Community: Create spaces where alumni and students can celebrate shared experiences, build lasting relationships, and strengthen ties to SLU.
- Support Students: Provide guidance, resources, and opportunities that empower Black and minority students to thrive academically, socially, and professionally.
- Engage Alumni: Encourage alumni involvement through networking events, service opportunities, and partnerships that reflect the values of SLU and the Black community.
- Honor Legacy: Recognize and celebrate the achievements of SLU’s Black alumni, faculty, staff, and students while uplifting the history and contributions of the Black community at SLU.
Our Vision
The Black Alumni Association envisions a vibrant and connected community where Black alumni and students feel supported, represented, and inspired. By bridging generations and building networks of care and opportunity, the BAA seeks to advance equity, belonging, and excellence within SLU and beyond.
Get Involved
Along with one-time gatherings and special events, the BAA sponsors signature celebrations annually. These include the:
Held in honor of the esteemed Ernest A. Calloway, this event celebrates Black excellence at SLU. Join BAA for reflection and celebration as we recognize the enduring impact of Black alumni, uplift their significant contributions and carry forward their tradition of leadership and achievement within the academic community and beyond.
The event is complimentary, but guests are encouraged to make a gift of $25 or more to SLU’s Pioneers of Inclusion Scholarship Fund.
As part of the celebration, the community is also asked to submit nominations for the BAA’s awards honoring alumni and community members who exemplify excellence, leadership and service. Award recipients are recognized during the prayer breakfast.
Celebrate the holidays with fellow alumni, students, faculty and staff. The BAA Holiday Bash brings together generations of Billikens. Enjoy festive music, dinner, drinks, games and prizes. Don’t forget to compete in the best-dressed holiday outfit competition. Your $15 registration includes a $5 tax-deductible gift to the Dr. Celerstine Briggs Johnson Book Fund.
BAA Scholarships at SLU
Saint Louis University's Black Alumni Association supports current students via two scholarships.
Established in 2014 by the Black Alumni Association to commemorate the 70th anniversary of integration at Saint Louis University, the Pioneers of Inclusion Endowed Scholarship honors the strength, resilience and courage of the men and women who, in 1944, became the first Black students to enroll at SLU.
Their legacy paved the way for generations of students and continues to inspire a commitment to equity and inclusion within the University community. This scholarship carries forward their vision by supporting high-achieving, first-generation college students from historically underrepresented populations in U.S. higher education. By investing in these scholars, we not only recognize the trailblazers who came before but also empower future leaders to achieve their fullest potential.
Your contribution makes a difference. Support the Pioneers of Inclusion Endowed Scholarship today to ensure its recipients continue to thrive and succeed at SLU.
Celerstine Briggs Johnson, Ed.D., worked for Saint University for nearly 30 years, culminating in her role as associate vice provost for enrollment management. She dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunities for all students, focusing on those historically underrepresented in higher education.
The Dr. Celerstine Briggs Johnson Book Fund honors her legacy by providing financial support to full-time undergraduate students who demonstrate need, ensuring they have access to course materials and textbooks.
Your contribution makes a difference. Support the Dr. Celerstine Briggs Johnson Book Fund today to honor Dr. Johnson’s legacy while ensuring students have the educational tools they need to thrive.
About the Black Alumni Association Board
Executive Board
President
MaShyllia Gunn Minor, Ph.D. (A&S '01)
2025 Board Members
- Ornella Balley (A&S ’16)
- Annette Fields (GRAD ED ’14)
- Aric Hamilton (A&S '23, GRAD ED '25)
- Melissa Hamilton (A&S ’02, GRAD A&S ’06)
- Tamara Harris (SSW '10)
- Amy Haymore (DCHS ’10)
- Lydia Huston (PS '18)
- Joshua Johnson (PS '21)
- Darryl Jones (A&S '77)
- Michael F. Jones II, Ph.D. (ED '16)
- Luella Loseille (A&S '17, '19)
- LaVerne Robinson (PS ’99, GRAD PS ’05)
- Deanne Sleet (A&S ’17)
- Alice Stanley (CSB ’74)