Black Student Advising and Mentorship Program at StFX

The Black Student Advising Office is an organization that promotes and honours the rich and diversified African cultures here at StFX. They work to organize events to celebrate those cultures, as well as support, advocate for, and guide students of African descent in their journey in university. Students of any race, faith, or culture are welcome to join in on their activities and take advantage of any of their resources, which include—but are not limited to—academic supports, advising services, and financial resources. People of African descent have a long and vibrant past in Nova Scotia, and the Advising Office wants to recognize the communities who have called Nova Scotia their home, as well as those who have been marginalized within it.

Recently, the office has gone through a few changes, and the previous role of the African Descent Student Affairs Coordinator has been remodeled into the new position of the Black Student Advisor. These are students who provide one-one one support for Black and African Nova Scotian students who may be struggling with organizational, study, and/or time-management skills. They work further to assist students with tutoring services and course content. Advisors also celebrate Black culture by hosting on-campus activities for all to enjoy, and work with stakeholders to ensure that these events promote culture and diversity to the highest degree. Additionally, they help connect students with volunteer opportunities and various mentorship programs. The top priority of a Black Student Advisor is to address students’ needs in any way they can to help them thrive in both their post-secondary years and post-university careers. Black Student Advisors provide many services and supports to encourage students to achieve success. StFX affirms that Black lives matter and have spoken about their wishes to address the issues of colonialism, racism, and sexism. Black Student Advisors are here to mediate and advocate for Black and African Nova Scotian students for concerns relating to culturally sensitive and academic issues.

The Black Student Advising office is located on the fourth floor of the Bloomfield Centre & Students’ Union Building in the Diversity Engagement Centre. This is a space that aims to support traditionally underrepresented and marginalized groups on campus. For more information, students can visit the Black Student Advising Office’s Instagram @stfxblackstudentadvising or visit their web page https://www.mystfx.ca/equity/black-student-advising.