View our non-exhaustive list of annual observances celebrated across campus.
Black History Month
Recognized in February
Black History Month is an annual observance in the US celebrating the achievements of African Americans. It honors all Black people from all periods, including the enslaved individuals brought over from Africa in the early 17th century. The idea for this month was conceived by Carter G. Woodson, an American historian, author and journalist.
Women's History Month
Recognized in March
Women's History Month is an annual observance celebrating the achievements of women. It began as a week-long celebration in 1978 and was expanded to a month in 1987, thanks to the efforts of the National Women's History Project.
Latine Heritage Month
Recognized from Sept. 15-Oct. 15
Latine Heritage Month (also referred as National Hispanic Heritage Month), is celebrated annually throughout the United States from Sept. 15-Oct. 15. This month commemorates the diverse cultures and extensive histories of Hispanic and Latina/o/x communities.
LGBTQ+ History Month
Recognized in October
Started in 1994 by Rodney Wilson, a high school teacher in Missouri, LGBTQ+ History Month is a time to revisit history, educate others about the past, and pay respect to the thousands of LGBTQ+ activists, who took time, energy, and even their lives to build a more just, equal, and accepting world.
Native American Heritage Month
Recognized in November
Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, histories and contributions of Native Americans. This month raises awareness of about the unique challenges Native and Indigenous people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which they have worked progressively to conquer them.
F1RST-GEN Month
Recognized in November
November is F1RST-GEN Month, an opportunity for all of Shocker Nation to celebrate the vitality that this segment of our student population brings to our campus community. This month celebrates students who are among the first in their families to graduate college.
January
National Mentoring Month
A nationwide campaign that celebrate the importance of mentoring and the impact it has on others through the development of meaningful relationships.
April
Autism Awareness Month
The recognition raises awareness about autism acceptance and promotes inclusion and connectedness for individuals with autism.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
A time for the community to get involved by honoring and supporting survivors, speaking up against violence and harassment, and respecting boundaries in all relationships.
May
Mental Health Awareness Month
An opportunity to raise awareness of those living with mental or behavioral health issues and to help reduce the stigma regarding mental health.
September
National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
A time to raise awareness in the community and share resources to support the well-being of all individuals.
National Student Parent Month
An opportunity to celebrate and uplift the achievements of student parents in higher education.
October
Blindness Awareness Month
An initiative to raise awareness of the realities of living without sight and to bring attention to those with visual disabilities and impairments.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
An annual health campaign raising awareness and educating everyone about breast cancer and the importance of early detection and access to timely, high-quality care.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
A month to unite advocates across the nation in their efforts to end domestic and relationship violence.