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Student Groups

The African and African American Studies Program at Iowa State University has developed three student-coordinated support groups: The A Society, which provides a forum for a wide range of issues, The Band of Brothers, which focuses on African American males, and The Circle of Trust, which focuses on African American females. These three groups, open to all students, enrich education by developing closer links between classroom and out-of-classroom experiences. Based on research that shows students' desire for experiences both inside and outside their peer group, these organizations ultimately promote greater student involvement and learning.

A-Society

Open to all students, The A-Society encourages ongoing dialogue based on key issues related to students, including scholarship, learning, service and employment opportunities in the field. Through regular meetings and discussions, students gain a greater knowledge of significant issues in the larger society as well as the academy. The Society brings together students, faculty and off-campus entities in a community of study, scholarship, service and learning. The society has become a place for intellectual exchange between students and faculty at Iowa State University.

Band of Brothers

Band of Brothers fosters an atmosphere of intellectual exchange by addressing the educational aspirations of African American males. The objective is to establish communication concerning issues relative to retention and academic achievement. The Band of Brothers nurtures an environment that facilitates dialogue among African American males. Solidarity, community, self-awareness, and positive image are just a few of the issues the men discuss in order to create an environment that perpetuates academic success.

MISSION

The Band of Brothers is an inclusive organization designed to address the educational aspirations of the African American male population at Iowa State University. In this inclusive setting, the Band of Brothers will discuss issues and ideas crucial to academic achievement and intellectual excellence. Specific initiatives toward goals will be developed and implemented.

Circle of Trust

The Circle of Trust guides undergraduate African American women toward academic success by encouraging them to maintain long-term goals. It empowers women to discuss issues and concerns regarding their educational experience, as well as pursue solutions. All of this is accomplished in an uplifting atmosphere that establishes and replenishes sisterly connections between African American women.

MISSION

The Circle of Trust is a student support group that encourages the academic achievement, professional development, and personal empowerment of, but not limited to African American women. Through inclusive meetings of students, faculty, and staff, the Circle aims to uplift sisterly connections within the women of Iowa State University. These meetings promote the sharing and educating of one another in various issues related to achievement, motivation, and scholarship.