Black and Latino Student Union

The Black and Latino Student Union is one of the oldest clubs on campus.

The club started in October 1968 and is still running strong in 2013.

Advisors Larry Ellis and Jessica Gilbert were eager to share what the club is all about.

The club is involved in community service, teaming up with groups like Habitat for Humanity.

They also try to spread awareness for Black and Latino culture.

Every year they hold a Kwanzaa event in the fall, along with a Black History Month event and a Latino cultural awareness event in the spring.

“[The club’s purpose is] to uplift the spirits of black and Latinos while spreading the knowledge of their culture[s],” said Ellis.

Ellis has been an advisor of the club for about 13 to 14 years, while Gilbert was appointed co-advisor last year, and, according to Ellis, she “is really moving the club forward.”

Gilbert has encouraged more events, such as an Easter egg hunt this past spring, which was cancelled due to weather conditions.

One event the club took on was helping victims from the hurricane in Schoharie County.

The club puts a major emphasis on helping others and creating a world that makes life easier for everyone.

Ellis also stated that the club has a lot of fun and does things to bond, too.

Just recently, they went to a local paint balling spot.

“They were all out to get me, but it was a lot of fun,” said Ellis.

The club is run by an elected board, including a president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary.

The current president is Devin Powell.

Each semester, a new board is elected. Anyone of any race can be a member of this club.

They are always looking for new members and meetings are held in the Siek Campus Center in room 291 on Mondays at 2 p.m.

For more information, contact Ellis or Gilbert.