Black History Month

February 2, 2026

Dear Wolf Pack Family,

I hope you all have had a great start to the spring semester. 

February is Black History Month — a time to honor and celebrate Black history, culture, and community. This annual observance recognizes the profound contributions Black Americans have made to our nation’s story. 

I encourage each of you to participate in celebrations and events associated with Black History Month. These opportunities are designed to foster connection, learning and a strong sense of belonging. All are welcome!

Programming to commemorate Black History at the University includes:

Research Drop-Ins and Mobile Library 

When: Feb. 5 and 19 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 
Where: The Multicultural Center in the JCSU

Students will engage with the “Student Success Librarian” for help with their research, including brainstorming topics and keywords, citations, thesis statements, finding peer-reviewed and/or credible sources, and even information about campus resources. In addition, students will have the opportunity to browse the pop-up mobile library that focuses on Black History and African American Literature. 

Men’s Basketball vs. Fresno State

When: Saturday, Feb 7, 7 p.m.
Where: Lawlor Events Center

The game will include a special Black History Month celebration and dedication.

Black History Month Student and Faculty Social

When: Wednesday, Feb. 11, noon to 2 p.m.
Where: Multicultural Center, 3^rd floor JCSU

Students will engage with at least one faculty member or peer to develop meaningful connections that support community‑building through a facilitated Black History Month social in the Multicultural Center. 

Share the Crown Hair Kit Drive

When: Wednesday, Feb. 11, 4 to 6 p.m.
Where: Food Court, Second Floor of JCSU

Share the Crown is an inclusive, community-centered event celebrating Black identity, culture, and self-expression. Participants will engage in hands-on activities to create hair care and self-care kits using supplies such as shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, hand cream, moisturizing lotion, and travel-size containers. Students may choose to keep their kits for personal use or donate them to Black Wall Street Reno to support community members in need.

Food and refreshments, including cookies, chicken strips, and fruit, will be provided for attendees to enjoy during the event. Through interactive games, shared food, and community conversation, participants will learn about the cultural significance of Black hair while building community, cultural appreciation, and spaces that affirm Black joy.

Women’s Basketball vs. San Diego State

When: Saturday, Feb. 14, 1 p.m.
Where: Lawlor Events Center

The game will include a special Black History Month celebration and dedication.

Black Girl Link-Up

When: Wednesday, Feb. 18, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Where: Multicultural Center

The Black Girl Link-Up is a way to connect with other Black women on campus; share stories and resources; build community, friendship, and to celebrate culture and identity. College can be a challenge, but you don’t have to do it alone. These link-ups are designed to hold space and to create a fun environment where we can thrive together. All currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students at Nevada are welcome. For more information and additional link-up dates, please contact Dr. Sheena Harvey at sheenah@unr.edu.

Kaskade: Roll with the Pack Night

When: Thursday, Feb. 26, 9 to 11 a.m.
Where: Roller Kingdom, 515 E. Seventh Street, Reno

Students will connect the shared experience of skating with peers to broader themes of joy, community, and cultural celebration during Black History Month.

Black Culture Festival: Embracing Our Heritage, Empowering Our Future 

When: Friday, March 6, 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Where: 4^th Floor Ballroom, JCSU

The Black Culture Festival is an inclusive, celebratory event designed to deepen understanding and appreciation of Black culture and heritage. Attendees will experience cultural food, live entertainment including music and dance, and interactive engagement through tabling and booths hosted by campus clubs and organizations. The event will also feature community activities and giveaways, creating a welcoming space that centers education, celebration, and connection while empowering the campus community through shared cultural experiences.

Affirming Our Narrative: Collages of Culture and Love

When: All month long
Where: Multicultural Center, Third Floor, JCSU

Students will create a personal collage that reflects themes of Black excellence, identity, and self‑love, demonstrating understanding of cultural affirmation and personal empowerment

In addition to attending campus events, I invite all of our faculty to participate in Black at the Pack campus affinity group to help foster a stronger sense of community for African Diasporic-identifying faculty and staff. I also encourage our campus community to explore and support Black-owned businesses in the area as a meaningful way to learn more about Black culture locally. We likewise welcome opportunities to bring community members and Black business owners to campus to share their experiences, strengthen connection, and promote a fuller understanding of Black culture in Reno. 

Let us carry the lessons of Black History Month with us the entire year and continue building a campus where every individual feels valued, supported and empowered to thrive.

Go Pack!

Sincere regards,

Brian Sandoval
President