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College of Liberal Arts and Sciences University of Florida

Student Groups

CAS Ambassadors

Become an ambassador for the Center for African Studies. Ambassadors play an active role in Center for African Studies’ undergraduate recruitment and outreach initiatives. Ambassadors are assigned individual tasks and work as a team to promote the Center for African Studies and its programs. Ambassadors engage in class visits, information sessions, social media management, and assist with CAS events.

SASA

The Center for African Studies is home to SASA—named after the Swahili word “sasa,” meaning “now”—a student-focused initiative that hosts engaging lunchtime seminars each semester. These gatherings create space for students to connect, learn, and engage with Africa. Students are welcome to present their research at any stage of their work. Contact email: tleedy@ufl.edu 

African Student Union

Another organization of interest is the African Student Union, founded in 1972 to support and unite African students and to promote awareness of African issues and culture throughout UF and within the greater Gainesville community. UF ASU accomplishes this mission through biweekly general body meetings, social events which aim to build the ASU family through a wide range of activities, community service, fundraising, athletic events, a mentorship program for all incoming students, and their annual scholarship pageant and cultural showcase. This organization is open to all and serves as a warm and welcoming smaller community within a large campus, like the University of Florida. To learn more- visit their website, follow UF ASU on Instagram, and join the GroupMe chat to remain up to date with the latest information regarding all upcoming events and become part of the ASU FAM! 

Interdisciplinary Working Groups

Students have the opportunity to participate in one of the Center’s many interdisciplinary working groups. These working collaborative, interdisciplinary groups are provide a forum for faculty and graduate students to pursue research and funding initiatives that cut across academic units. Group activities have included symposia, conferences, guest lectures, and fieldwork/methodology workshops.

Pazeni Sauti Choir

The Pazeni Sauti Choir has been a significant part of the University of Florida and the larger Gainesville community. Their mission is to raise awareness of the diverse African cultural practices through musical performances. They strive to make the music of the African diaspora more accessible. Their vision is to foster and promote interactive and dynamic social networks by enhancing awareness and appreciation of cultural diversity found in African musical practices. 

Conferences and Academic Associations

Students involved with the Center for African Studies are encouraged to regularly participate in conferences in a wide range of disciplines. Many students attend the African Studies Association Annual Meeting held in the fall of every year.