Upcoming + Ongoing Events
Signature Events
A culturally affirming kick-off to the academic year. Black Convocation invites Black faculty and staff to impart wisdom and inspiration to the student community as they begin the academic year. Student leaders are also invited to share student organization information to help new students connect to peer resources.
The First Year Feast program, previously known as Breaking Bread, provides an opportunity for first-year Black-identified students to build community by engaging with one another, over dinner and an activity held in an East Campus residence hall once at the beginning of the semester. Then again at the end of the semester on West Campus to bridge the gap between the two.
Each first Friday of the month, the Lou brings together the entire Black community for a drop-in event of food, fellowship, and fun to end the week. This event is open to undergraduate and graduate students, staff, and faculty.
Throughout the semester, once a month, Graduate and Professional students come together to enjoy a meal together in the Mary Lou. This program brings together Black-identified students from across the campus allowing an opportunity to connect with one another as well as various campus partners.
On The Way is a multi-day cultural heritage retreat tailored for Black/African Diaspora first-year students. Grounded in the Community Cultural Wealth framework, the program empowers participants to recognize different forms of capital while fostering resilience to navigate their undergraduate journey. It features interactive on-campus sessions, opportunities to connect with Duke faculty, staff, and alumni, a visit to the International African American Museum in Charleston, SC, cultural tours, and an overnight stay in Charleston. Throughout the academic year, students will also explore Black history in Durham, NC, deepening their understanding and engagement.
Every spring late in the semester, the center celebrates its namesake - Mary Lou Williams.
Featuring a delectable theme, the center honors Ms. Williams with an assortment of delightful treats and jazz music. It is always a pleasure to take time out to honor those who have gone before us, and what better time to do it and what better person to honor than the woman who dedicated her talents and skills to Duke University unto her passing.
Mary Lou is a day of cheer and celebration. We hope you will Join us as we commemorate history and celebrate our future.
Each year, the Mary Lou Williams Center hosts Final Honors, which is a Black Student graduation ceremony and reception. During this annual program, all affiliated graduating undergraduate and graduate/professional students participate by walking across the stage at Page Auditorium and receiving a special kente cloth stole. Duke Alumni, campus partners, graduates' family members, and community members attend to extend best wishes and bid farewell.
Watch Final Honors 2024Program Premiere
