Our History
In 1976, a small group of African American alumni decided to organize a reunion of black graduates of the University of Michigan. The idea for the event grew out of recognition that if African American Alumni were to continue to be a part of their alma mater, we would need to return to the University in greater numbers and become active in the affairs of the Alumni Association and the University. This group of committed alumni coordinated an annual event that became known as the Annual All-Class Reunion of Black Graduates of the University of Michigan.
In addition to the annual Reunion, several alumni-inspired initiatives have become an integral part of our involvement. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Fund was created to assist African American students. African American alumni are actively involved as mentors and in student recruitment programs. Several African American alumni have served and currently sit on the Board of Directors of the Alumni Association. Through these and other efforts, African American alumni are building a tradition of commitment and leadership.
In 1994, we reorganized to become the African American Alumni Council(AAAC). We were then officially incorporated as an affiliate member of the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan.
Purpose
The AAAC's aim is to increase the involvement of African American alumni in Alumni Assocation and U-M programs, activities, and events; develop and advance scholarship programs that aid African American students in pursuing their educational goals at the U-M; inform alumni of the concerns, problems, and progress of African American alumni, students, faculty, and staff; provide an environment of support and camaraderie for African American alumni, faculty, staff, students, and friends; and assist the U-M in identifying ways to implement those ideas mutually determined to enhance the eduational experience and performance of African American students.
To that end, African American Alumni mentor students and participate in student recruitment programs. Through these and other efforts, African American Alumni are building a tradition of leadership and commitment to the University.
2012 GOLF CLASSIC HONOREE
HEISMAN TROPHY WINNER - Desmond Howard ('89-'91)
2011 Inaugural Celebrity Athlete Golf Classic 1st Place Winners - Vitec USA
w/MASTER SPONSOR (Cicchini Custom Clothier)
Programs
The U-M African American Alumni Council (AAAC) was founded to provide support and quality programs for Black students and alumni. Its mission is accomplished through a variety of events:
The Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship - is a merit-based award for incoming invited freshmen who demonstrate a commitment to justice issues, community involvement, and academic achievement. From its growing $2 million endowment fund, each year, the AAAC awards 40 to 60 talented students with this prestigious non-renewable scholarship.
The Annual All-Class Reunion of Black Graduates - is the Council's largest annual event. Alumni from across the country return to campus with family, friends and colleagues to participate in a national leadership conference, enjoy the camaraderie at homecoming football game, social events, and to interact with current students.
The Annual Urban Tailgate - provides alumni a joyful expression of this long standing friendly rivalry, U-M vs. MSU, an opportunity to network, donate to the MLK, Jr. Scholarship Fund and socialize while watching the two schools battle it out on the gridiron.
Mix-N-Mingle Networking Events - gives alumni the opportunity to stay connected with friends while meeting new and seasoned alumni in casual settings at popular locations in major cities across the nation.
The Council advocates for policies that encourage fairness and equal access to higher education. With a growing membership of over 14,000 worldwide (5000 of whom reside in Michigan), the AAAC continues to strive for the opportunity for current and future students to pursue their education at the University free from racial discrimination and intimidation.
