This panel discussion documents the institutional history of JMU's AAAD Studies program through the perspectives of founding faculty members, covering several key themes. The founding of AAAD Studies traces its origins to 1980s student-led initiatives that called for Black-centered curricula, with Dr. Jacqueline Walker detailing her 1976 arrival at Madison College, where she developed early African American history courses. Dr. David Owusu-Ansah recounts the collaborative efforts across departments to secure federal grants for African Studies, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary partnerships with art history, political science, and English. Faculty also reflect on the pedagogical challenges of teaching Africana content to predominantly white student bodies; Dr. Steven Reich discusses his approach to dismantling racialized medical biases through historical analysis, while Dr. Melinda Adams highlights her use of African novels in political science courses to counter Eurocentric scholarship. Additionally, Dr. Walker and Dr. Owusu-Ansah analyze retention strategies for BIPOC faculty, noting that JMU has relied more on interpersonal networks than on structural reforms for support. The panel further critiques JMU's fraught relationship with Harrisonburg's Black communities, with Dr. Reich acknowledging the resistance to archiving local Black history.

This panel discussion features conversations among Black women scholars, educators, and institutional leaders about their experiences in academic environments. The panelists reflect on systemic challenges, professional achievements, and intersectional identities within higher education. Key themes include institutional barriers to advancement, strategies for mentorship and community building, and the impact of race and gender on teaching practices. The discussion covers topics such as tenure processes, interdisciplinary collaboration, and navigating visibility in predominantly white academic institutions. The panelists offer critical insights into the sociopolitical dynamics of academia during the late 20th century. Additionally, the recording includes audience questions related to policy reform and solidarity frameworks. While there is minor background noise, the audio remains clear throughout. This material serves as a primary resource for scholars investigating the historiography of Black feminist thought, institutional equity movements, and oral history methodologies aimed at preserving underrepresented voices.

This panel discussion explores the history and significance of Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs) at James Madison University. The discussion lifts up BGLOs' roles as cultural affirmations and service leadership engines and addresses challenges within JMU's diversity landscape. BGLOs arose in the early 20th century in response to racial exclusion. Dr. Joanne Gabbin notes the founding of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 1908 at Howard University, focused on combating poverty. Alexander Gabbin traces Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.'s founding in 1911, emphasizing its commitment to academic survival amid racial hostility. Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., founded in 1922, began under KKK influence, underscoring the need for community service. Panelists distinguish BGLOs from predominantly white Greek organizations, noting their legal commitment to community uplift. Esther Nizer illustrates Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.'s activism during the 1913 Women's Suffrage March. Panelists share transformative personal journeys shaped by BGLOs, such as Alexander Gabbin, who gained leadership skills through Kappa Alpha Psi, and Chervon Moore, who found mentorship in Sigma Gamma Rho. BGLOs have significantly influenced JMU's diversity, with alumni taking on leadership roles across campus. Despite their legacy, BGLOs face declining visibility and membership due to reduced Black student enrollment and resource disparities. Esther Nizer mentions alumnae initiatives aimed at fostering connections and a need for greater university support. Panelists discuss the tension between tradition and the evolving views of students regarding BGLOs. The alumni networks of BGLOs play a critical role in retention and support. Dr. Joanne Gabbin shares her long-term mentorship with JMU's Alpha Kappa Alpha chapter. Esther Nizer discusses how her alumni chapter focused on scholarships and legislative advocacy, exemplifying BGLOs as lifelong commitments.

This oral history interview records the professional experiences and insights of Ireti Akinola, a Black Nigerian American recruitment specialist at James Madison University (JMU). The interview explores Akinola's role in recruiting faculty and staff across various divisions at JMU, including the Office of the President, Student Affairs, and Access and Enrollment Management. Key themes include her navigation of intersectional identities as a Black woman of Nigerian descent, the challenges she faces in advancing institutional diversity initiatives, and her reflections on her career path from being a JMU alumna to an HR professional. The interview also addresses broader issues of representation and cultural belonging within predominantly white academic environments.