Straight From the Board

Message from James Riley ’94, chairperson, Black Alumni of Notre Dame 
   Last month, the Black Alumni of Notre Dame held its 2^nd nationwide Fall Affair. This year’s Fall Affair commemorated Mr. Frazier Thompson, Notre Dame’s first African-American graduate and monogram winner; and acknowledged the 60 years since his graduation in 1947. 
   The Fall Affair was held simultaneously in five cities: Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. With more than 150 attendees across the various venues, the event was an overall success. Present at the Washington event were members of Mr. Thompson’s family, who issued the following statement:
"Dear Alumni,
   We the direct descendents of Frazier L. Thompson would like to thank you for extending to us the invitation which celebrates 60 years since his graduation from Notre Dame. For many years my brother, Frazier Jr., and I have lived in the shadows of our father’s achievement. It is with great pride and strong faith that we accept this light of acknowledgement of our existence, for we know, you did not know. 
   As you all know, much has changed in the past 60 years, yet some things still remain the same. We, as a people, are still second guessed as to whether we belong at an institution as great and distinguished as the University of Notre Dame. I am sure every one of you, the Black Alumni, has a story to tell of how hard it was and what burdens you had to endure to reach your goals. It is not by accident that we are where we are on this day. It is not by accident that my father was the first to lead the way. It is not by accident that others will continue to follow. It is through God’s grace and mercy that all things happen!
   So, today we say thank you! Thank you for allowing us, his descendents, to share in this moment of celebration. A celebration of 60 years for you, the Black Alumni of the University of Notre Dame! A celebration of a lifetime for us, His children.
   On behalf of the entire Thompson family we say well done, Black Alumni of Notre Dame, well done!”

   While this national celebration of African-Americans at ND brought many together in the spirit of camaraderie, it was also an opportunity to reflect on our individual and collective contributions, and encouraged us to challenge ourselves going forward. 
   This year’s 92 African-American freshmen aspire to greatness. We need to support their efforts through scholarship and through mentorship. Their success will feed the success of our future alumni efforts. 
   In addition to supporting our current students, our alumni need to continue to assist the University with recruitment efforts. As a Board, the Black Alumni of ND does place the recruitment of African-American students at the top of its priorities. In order to see an increase from the 4.5 percent African-American population that makes up the current freshmen class, we need all of your assistance. Get involved with your local club’s Alumni Schools Committee or contact one of BA of ND’s regional directors to learn how you can help.