The Black Alumni Group (BAG) has been an official constituency of the SIU Alumni Association since 1988, helping maintain, nurture, and advance initiatives that help Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
BAG seeks to keep alive professional, social, and educational relationships developed while at Southern, by providing assistance, guidance, and support to alumni. The organization solicits gifts to be used for and on behalf of SIU, its faculty, students, and staff; and assists SIU in the recruitment, retention, financial assistance, and career development of students of Black African descent. Held biennially in odd-numbered years, BAG hosts a reunion on a weekend in the summer. A myriad of social and educational events are scheduled during the reunion weekend, as well as a business meeting and the election of officers.
Save the Date: 2027 SIU Black Alumni Reunion, July 22-25, 2027
It’s time to come home, Salukis!
The SIU Black Alumni Group is thrilled to announce the 2027 Black Alumni Reunion, happening July 22-25, 2027, at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Get ready for a weekend filled with celebration, laughter, and Saluki pride as we welcome Black alumni back to the place where so many of us found our voice, discovered our passions, built lifelong friendships, and created memories that have stayed with us long after graduation.
This reunion is an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new connections, and recognize generations of Black Salukis who have helped shape the SIU community.
We’re planning a weekend worthy of the occasion, so start making your plans now. You won’t want to miss this one!
Additional details about registration, events, accommodations, and the reunion schedule are coming soon.
What We Do
The Black Alumni Group showcases its love for Southern Illinois University Carbondale as a grand lever to raise the institution's status throughout Illinois and the country -- particularly those of the African diaspora.
Connect
Keep alive the social, educational, and professional relationships formed at our alma mater.
Scholarships
Provide financial support to deserving students currently attending SIU Carbondale.
Network
Offer professional development opportunities for members and students.
Mentorship
Mentor and enrich the minds of new generations of Salukis to continually produce new leaders.
Collaborate
Work with various university departments to maximize support and outreach.
Pride
Tell the world about the excellence found at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
Black Alumni Group Officers 2025 - 2027
Richard Gardner, M.D. '91 President
Cynthia Parker-Ferguson '81 Vice President
Crystal Allen Treasurer
Tashi Adams '14 Secretary
Kevin Buford '02
Member-at-Large
Briana Galloway '12
Member-at-Large