Black Alumni Network

A group of Black alumni pose together in front of the African-American Heritage Trail marker near Plaster Student Union during Homecoming.

Who we are

Missouri State University's Black Alumni Network (BAN) is a diverse, dynamic group of alumni and friends with thousands of Black graduates. Our network offers social, professional and educational opportunities to keep you engaged with Missouri State.

From Bears watch parties to local happy hours and national alumni events, we're here to enhance your Missouri State experience.
  • Got ideas for events? Get involved, and get in touch!
  • Make your annual gift to support BAN scholarships and operations. By doing so, you become an active, voting member.
Connect with Black Alumni

Join the crew!

  • Make plans to join us on each October for Homecoming. Learn more about BAN, network with fellow alumni and students, tailgate and cheer on the Bears!
  • Participate in BAN general body meetings.
  • Network with fellow Bears through social media and at special events. Join our Facebook group for more information on current events.
A Black alumni member and a current student at homecoming.

Meet our council board

 

Officers

President
Charleen Fields, ’96, Springfield, Mo.

Vice President of Internal Relations
Ramon Malcolm Bates, '03, Houston, Texas.

Vice President of External Relations
Currently accepting applications.

Community Liaison
Armani Eason ’21, Springfield, Mo.

At-Large Members

Janelle Turner, ’14, St. Louis, Mo.
Devontey Latimore, ’20, Springfield, Mo.

Help us thrive

Bears support Bears

To actively contribute to the Missouri State University Black Alumni Network, we encourage you to make an annual gift, which supports our organizational operations and university scholarships. Your tax-deductible donation helps sustain the mission of the Black Alumni Network.

Missouri State Alumni who contribute at least $50 annually are also eligible for V.I.B. benefits! You have the flexibility to direct your contribution to any program of your choice. Below, we’ve suggested several funds that align closely with the Network goals and mission, focusing on multicultural programs and student scholarships.

Black Alumni Council Support Fund

When you designate your gift to the BAN Support Fund, you demonstrate your commitment to the Network mission and goals. The board of directors has discretion for using these funds to support Network projects, student organizations, and/or student scholarships.

Foundation Scholarships

Missouri State University Foundation Scholarships are made possible through private gifts to the university made by individuals, groups or companies.

They are awarded to students each year based on a wide range of criteria: college, major/minor, high school attended, outstanding academic achievement, leadership, financial need, etc.

The Search Tool will allow you to view available scholarships. You may search using keywords or the category search filter option, however you cannot apply for scholarships using the Search Tool.

For more information, including how to apply for all Foundation Scholarship opportunities by the March 1 deadline, please visit the Foundation Scholarships webpage.