YSU’s University Archives opens new exhibit

Youngstown State University’s University Archives opens a new exhibit titled “The YSU Black Student Experience” with an opening reception, 4 p.m., Friday, April 12 on the fifth floor of Maag Library. The exhibit highlights the contributions and achievements of Black students at YSU.

The idea to do research on this topic came from the late Carol Bennett, the assistant provost for the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and was carried out by Tilisia Williams, a student assistant in Maag Library.

Over the past year, Williams, who is a senior Psychology major, interviewed over 30 alumni about their experiences as YSU students. Their interviews were transcribed and will be uploaded to the University’s digital archive at digital.maag.ysu.edu. Williams and a team from the University Archives then looked through past yearbooks, The Jambar newspapers and archival collections to learn more about early alumni, students groups, athletes, Greek organizations and the Black Studies — now Africana Studies — program.

The opening reception will celebrate the rediscovery of these stories. The event is free and open to the public. The opening reception will include a brief program and refreshments.

For more information, contact Cassie Nespor in University Archives at (330) 941-3788.