On Thursday, Oct.1, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Jule Collins Smith Museum, the Black Student Union will host its semiannual “Jazz and Poetry Night.” The event is open to Auburn University faculty, staff and student body free of charge.

The “Jazz and Poetry Night” has been one of the Black Student Union’s long standing events to encourage socializing and networking among students.

“Like most of our events within the Black Student Union, we try to give all students an alternative outlet for social networking,” said Heather Horn, Black Student Union executive vice president.
“We believe that low retention rates are sometimes due to students’ inability to adapt to the Auburn community and we strive to counteract that with programming that allows students to meet other students and faculty members.”

Amber Blair, former executive vice president of the Black Student Union, is happy to see the event still thrive.

“I loved that “Jazz and Poetry Night” included live music, in an elegant and mature atmosphere,” Blair said. “It is not a party, and it takes place away from campus. Not to mention the food was great.”

During this event, students will be treated to the musical melodies of Oya.

“Oya performs all genres of music,” Horn said. “She specializes in dedication songs to make your day even more beautiful and memorable. Oya sings R&B, jazz, soul, gospel and reggae with instrumental or live music.”

The atmosphere for “Jazz and Poetry Night” is much different that the average school day and the Black Student Union wants to reflect that in every way possible.

“We are requesting that people where all black dress attire, but the main goal is to get out of our everyday wear and enter a new environment,” said Horn.

“I have always enjoyed myself at the ‘Jazz and Poetry Nights’,” said Mary Reid, a senior in English. “It is a good adjustment away from the norm of other activities. Plus it gives me a chance to wear my dressy clothes.”

Even though the Black Student Union is proud to sponsor numerous social events, it was founded for much more.

“Auburn University’s Black Student Union was founded in 1984 as the Black Student Action Committee.,” Horn said. “In 1989, it adopted the name Black Student Union (BSU). Since its founding the BSU’s goals have been to improve race relations on campus and in the community by creating an environment that is receptive to the African American culture.”


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