The Black Alumni Alliance
The social injustices that we have been experiencing as both a community and a nation led to the formation of the MBS Black Alumni Alliance. The Alliance is made up of 64 Black alumni ranging in class years from 1998 – 2019. After watching videos and reading some of the stories that surfaced on social media in the summer of 2020, this group formed organically out of their love for MBS and a desire to be part of the solution in creating positive and lasting change. Working in partnership with the MBS Director of DEIB and the Associate Director of Alumni Relations, the goal of the MBS Black Alumni Alliance “is to create a community that addresses the needs and concerns of all MBS students and alumni who identify as members of the African diaspora.” We are committed to building relationships that foster collaboration and a sense of belonging for Black students and alumni.
The MBS Black Alumni Alliance was called to action, sent a letter of intent and met with members of the MBS Senior Administration Team in July, 2020. Members of the group have not wasted any time in making their vision of diversity, equity, and inclusion a reality. Some have volunteered on the MBS Racial Justice Task Force. A couple of the members submitted their bios and were voted on to the Alumni Board. The Black Alumni Alliance is committed to supporting MBS in doing the work that is needed to make the School a safe, nurturing and welcoming environment for all students, where each person feels valued, respected and “powerfully prepared for learning and for life.” The Black Alumni Alliance is an example of how MBS alumni live out the School motto “ad astra per aspera,” as they work to help move our community forward “to the stars through adversity.”
If you are interested in participating in the Black Alumni Alliance, please send an email to Klarissa Karosen, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging at kkarosen@mbs.net.