Sista Friends 2018Named for the noted civil rights activist, suffragist, and journalist, the Ida B. Wells Living Learning Community is for women of African descent who want to explore culture, identity, leadership and civic engagement as the foundation for their active participation in the college community. Additional application and interview are required.

Apply here

Who may apply? Ida B. Wells is open to first year women of African descent.  Your academic qualifications and service learning experience will be considered.

Will I take classes as part of Ida B. Wells? Yes, your academic advisor will assist you in creating your schedule. Here are some courses that may be included:

  • MBU 101: Orientation to College (1 credit) (1st semester) Cornett-Scott
  • Religion 232: African American Religion (3 credits) (1st semester)

What extra-curricular activities will I be participating in?  Prior to the start of the semester you will attend the Ida B. Wells Institute to orient you to the university. In Ida B. Wells you will participate in community service programming. You will prepare for and participate in Kwanzaa, a unique rite of incorporation that celebrates sisterhood, academic success, and cultural pride. Other integral pieces include alumnae mentors through the Sista Friends Program, the Class Quilt Project and Black Baby Doll Day. Learn more on the Inclusive Excellence page.

Leadership beyond your first year. Most of the students who are inducted into the Ida B. Wells Society as freshmen continue to be student leaders, Ubuntu mentors, big “sistas,” and active participants in student organizations including those organizations particularly for students of color. Many Ida B. Wells members make a commitment to active engagement in multicultural programming which qualifies them to be invited to participate in the Ajani Celebration.

Honorary members are inducted each fall and during Kwanzaa from alumni, faculty and staff who have contributed to the community and who value academic achievement.

Meet the staff: The Ida B. Wells program is directed by Rev. Andrea Cornett-Scott, Chief Diversity Officer. Rev. Andrea Cornett-Scott will serve as faculty advisor for Ida B. Wells students.  Peer Mentors, Learning Lab Teaching Assistants, Peer Advisors, and Sista Friends also support the living learning community members.  Our staff is committed 110% to your success.

Ida B. WellsWho was Ida B. Wells? Born a slave in Mississippi in 1862, Ida B. Wells achieved national attention as a leader of the anti-lynching crusade, a writer, an activist, and a suffragist. Wells traveled throughout the United States and Europe with the anti-lynching message. She wrote extensively on the injustices faced by African Americans, and she was engaged in a never-ending effort to organize women and African Americans.

 

 
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