Mark your calendars for a week of community, fun, and JOY!
Black Joy Week Fundraiser
This year’s celebration will also include a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the incredible work and recent successes of Cradle Kalamazoo, whose mission is to “reduce infant death and promote respect for families, women, and their children.”
We are inviting members of our community to make a donation to this worthy cause to support this important and meaningful work. Every contribution, big or small, helps sustain efforts to reduce Black infant mortality in our county and ensure that all babies, especially Black babies, can thrive in our community. Make your gift by June 19 and receive a Black Joy Week tshirt!
Learn more about the Cradle Kalamazoo Fundraiser.
Select the dates below for more details
Monday, June 1: Black Joy Week Picnic
Lower Quad: 11am – 1pm
Like years past, kick-off Black Joy Week with music, good food, and more! Hamburgers, hot dogs, and some sides.
Tuesday, June 2: 3 v 3 Basketball Game (Register now!)
Anderson Athletic Center: 4:30pm
Sign-up or come watch! 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals and prizes will be awarded to the winning teams + bragging rights!
Rules: 3-4 people per co-ed team with at least 1 female on the court at all times.
Sign-up by June 1, 2026
Wednesday, June 3: Paint, Punch, Popsicles
Quad (rain: Hicks): 11am – 1pm
Spark joy and rejuvenate yourself through art and somatic movement!
Join us for painting or joyful movement with Heather Mitchell. Students are welcome to paint a canvas, small flowerpot, or tote bag.
Thursday, June 4: Throwback Thursday
Quad: 11am – 1pm
Don’t miss dancing with the Black Student Organization (BSO)! Music will be provided by our very own Dr. Ron Dillard.
Friday, June 5: Scavenger Hunt
All over campus: All day
Team up and take on a campus‑wide scavenger hunt filled with clues, challenges, and surprises. Whether you’re in it to win or just to explore, this is all about connection, laughter, and discovery.
Hot tip: there may be some great prizes in store for scavenger hunt winners!
THANK YOU for making Black Joy Week happen!
Black Joy Week could not be accomplished without the hard work, love, and care from our community.
- Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership
- Chemistry & Biochemistry Department
- Black Student Organization (BSO)
- Center for Civic Engagement
- Coach Nick Giard
- Human Resources
- Information Services
- Intercultural Center
- President’s Office