February marks the start of the national celebration of Black History Month.
Join members of the GovState community in celebrating and honoring the rich heritage and cultures with a wide range of events and activities hosted by the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership and campus partners.
Monday, February 2
Soul Food Monday
Time: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: Come taste the flavors of traditional Soul Food while playing a round of Black History Trivia. Students, faculty and staff are also encouraged to wear African inspired attire in celebration of Black History Month.
Legacy & Leadership: A Black Greek Lettered Organization Exhibit
Time: All Week
Location: D-Atrium
Event Overview: Legacy & Leadership: A Black Greek Lettered Organization Exhibit is an educational and cultural showcase highlighting the history, values, and lasting impact of the nine organizations that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), also known as the Divine Nine.
Wednesday, February 4
36th Annual African American Read-In
Time: 5 - 7 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: The African American Read-In is a celebration of literacy, culture, and storytelling. Participants will read poetry, short stories, and selected works of literature. Others will share personal reflections on how an author—or a specific piece of writing—has influenced their lives. Join us as we honor the power of words and the voices that continue to inspire generations.
Men’s Basketball Game
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Come show your support for our Jaguar athletes and don't forget to bring your school spirit!
Thursday, February 5
Black History Educational Symposium
Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview:
Join the Office of Institutional Engagement and Excellence for a vibrant day-long celebration of culture, learning, and community engagement. This event features a series of thought-provoking discussions, workshops, and cultural performances, all designed to honor the rich history and contributions of Black individuals and communities.
Saturday, February 7
Men’s Volleyball
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Come cheer on the GovState Men’s Volleyball Team and don’t forget to bring your school spirit!
Wednesday, February 11
Unity in Action-Blood Drive
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: E-Lounge
Event Overview: In collaboration with Kaleidoscope Community Service Council and Versiti Blood Center, Governors State University will host a campus blood drive. Your donation will make a significant impact. Unite in action to give blood and help save lives!
Register nowFriday, February 13
Black History Month Showcase
Time: 7 - 9 p.m.
Location: Sherman Hall
Event Overview: Celebrate the richness of Black history through an inspiring tribute to movement and rhythm, featuring captivating performances by the GovState Dance Company and community partners. This event will showcase powerful dance performances that honor culture, resilience, and artistry.
Sunday, February 15
The Rat Pack
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Center for Performing Arts
Event Overview: Step back in time to the glitz and glamour of 1960s Las Vegas in this unforgettable tribute to the original kings of cool—Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. The Rat Pack in Concert brings the magic of their legendary performances to life with spot-on vocals, sharp wit, and swingin’ classics like “That’s Amore,” “Mr. Bojangles,” and “My Way.”
Buy ticketsTuesday February 17
Diamond Painting Night
Time: 6 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Hall of Honors
Event Overview: Celebrate creativity, culture, and history with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Students are invited to participate in a Black History–inspired Diamond Painting activity while learning about influential figures, movements, and moments that have shaped the Black experience.
Wednesday, February 18
Paris in Black
Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: DuSable Museum
Event Overview: Experience the City of Lights with the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council! Paris in Black traces the profound journeys of Black artists, writers, performers, and intellectuals who found freedom, inspiration, and transformation in the in the liberating cultural and social environment of Paris. This event is open to all GovState students. Please register via Jaguar Connection. Complimentary admission and transportation provided. Limited seats.
Register nowThursday, February 19
Feed the Future, Honor the Past
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Food Pantry, B1242
Event Overview: Help Kaleidoscope Community Service Council Feed the Future by volunteering at our next food pantry delivery. This is your chance to make an impact by unloading and sorting food, restocking shelves, and helping ensure GovState students have access to the resources they need. Please register via Jaguar Connection.
Register now
On My Block Candy Store
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Lounge
Event Overview: Black Student Union is bringing back their highly requested “ON MY BLOCK” candy store! Reminisce on the good old days by purchasing your favorite childhood candy, Double Dutch rope, hand games and more! CASH ONLY.
Saturday, February 21
Senior Night - Women’s Basketball
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Join the Women’s Basketball team to celebrate Senior Night! Fans are encouraged to wear Cancer Awareness shirts and/ribbons to acknowledge the impact that Cancer has on the Black community.