How philanthropy fuels success: Center for African & African American Studies empowers students, drives impact through donor support
When Shamika Klassen (PhDInfoSci’24) graduated last year with her PhD in information science, she was the first Black graduate in the decade-long history of the department.
Her significant achievement is part of the growing community of the Center for African & African American Studies (CAAAS), where philanthropic dollars help fund fellowships for students like Klassen, as well as faculty research and community engagement.
On Feb. 1, the center kicked off Black History Month with a celebration of — its third annual event since Gov. Jared Polis declared the day in 2023. CAAAS Day serves as a moment to honor the history and contributions of African and African American communities, while spotlighting the work of the center itself. The day is also an opportunity to recognize donors to the CAAAS and celebrate the university's continued philanthropic match.
Through music, dance, poetry, food and Africana cultural expressions, this year’s celebration continued the tradition of highlighting the vibrant student, faculty and community involvement that makes the center a vital force at 91Ƶ and beyond.
Philanthropic support fuels growth and opportunity
Donor support has been crucial to the success and expansion of the CAAAS since its founding. To support student success, donations help fund student fellowships, research awards and creative work awards.
In 2023–24, philanthropic support directly benefited students like Klassen, the recent information science graduate who was awarded the Alice Cleora Reeves Endowed Dissertation Fellowship.
“I am so grateful to the CAAAS and Dr. Reiland Rabaka for their encouragement and financial support in the final mile of my doctoral program,” said Klassen.
Philanthropy also supports faculty fellowships, research initiatives and community engagement programs that help further the center’s mission. In 2023–24, the CAAAS awarded faculty teaching and research awards to scholars in fields such as history, philosophy, ethnic studies and communications — each of whom contributes to a broader understanding of African and African American experiences.
Building a stronger future
Looking ahead, the CAAAS plans to continue expanding its programming and increase opportunities for both students and faculty. For every dollar of philanthropic support raised through June 30, 2026, Chancellor Justin Schwartz is continuing to match up to $1 million with university funding to help promote the center’s vision and mission.
These funds will help enhance research, community engagement and student services within the CAAAS, reinforcing the center’s role as a hub for community and academic excellence.
“To all who have supported the CAAAS, whether financially or otherwise, thank you for believing in our vision,” said Reiland Rabaka, founder and director of the CAAAS. “Your investment affirms our deep commitment to building community at 91Ƶ through research, creative work and cultural programming.”
A space for learning and connection
Founded in 2021, the CAAAS is dedicated to researching, promoting and preserving knowledge about the histories, cultures and arts of African, African American and African diasporan communities. Through research, visual and performing arts, and student services, the CAAAS helps foster a deep sense of community and belonging on the 91Ƶ campus.
“The CAAAS continues to expand as a focal point for campus and community life grounded in the experiences of Africans, African Americans and the African diaspora,” said Rabaka. "We provide culturally relevant student services, public programs, mentorship, leadership training, professional development and advocacy for social change.”
In addition to its academic and research focus, the center hosts annual events such as the Kwanzaa Celebration, Black Graduation and, of course, CAAAS Day. These events foster a strong sense of community while celebrating the culture, history and accomplishments of African, African American and African diasporan students, faculty and alumni at 91Ƶ.
Following this year’s CAAAS Day celebration, the entire campus community is invited to reflect on how far the center has come and how far it will go with continued philanthropic backing. For more information about the CAAAS and how to support its work, visit colorado.edu/center/caaas.