Department of African American Studies

College of Humanities and Sciences

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Why African American Studies?

African American studies in the past and today imparts knowledge that contributes to positive social change.

Our curriculum helps students learn how to define, measure, interpret and validate Black experiences. Graduates leave us ready to think and to act in order to solve the unstructured problems that confront Black communities.

Learn more about the value of a degree in African American studies.

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News

Two men in early 20th Century dress lean against a vehicle in front of a wooden barn

March 10, 2026

2026 Oscar Reviews: 'Sinners'

On March 15, the 98th Academy Awards will showcase the best – and most talked-about – films of the year. Ahead of Hollywood’s biggest night, some VCU professors shared their thoughts on films that aligned with their area of expertise and will be in contention in a variety of categories.

Nardos Iyob

Nov. 10, 2025

Nardos Iyob (B.A. ’20) raises awareness for a major adolescent development study

Iyob’s survey of the humanities as a Department of Political Science and Department of African American Studies double major prepared her to work in research

Students Jimmy Perez Hernandez, Savvy Figueroa, Layla Hashish and Ashley Dominguez helped to collect donated items, which will be provided to Southwood Apartments residents. (Contributed photo)

Sept. 12, 2025

VCU students help collect sweatshirts and more for local families

The recent donation drive connects the classroom to the community, College of Humanities and Sciences organizer says.

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AFAM Spotlight

Tarazha Jenkins

Meet a Student

Tarazha Jenkins is passionate about communications and politics, as well as how it can affect the black community. One day she hopes to work on Capitol Hill.

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Fidelia Igwe

Meet an Alum

Fidelia Igwe ('15) is associate director of College and Career Access at DC Prep in Washington D.C. and CEO/lead consultant of Equitable Minds, LLC.

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African American Studies major Shawn Williams

Meet a Student

Shawn Williams says majoring in African American studies helps them build towards a healthier, inclusive, antiracist future. Read more about Shawn, including her favorite courses, professors and sources of inspiration.

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Events

Collaboration and sharing are at the core of our mission.

Flyer for AFAM Community Lecture on the VCU Well Project

VCU Well Project Updates: Memorializations and Internment

Date: Thursday, Apr 9, 2026

Join the Department of African American Studies as we welcome Stephen Davenport and members of the VCU Well Project staff. The team will discuss progress made in the memorialization and internment of the individuals whose remains were discovered in the East Marshall Street Well.

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