James Stinson IV saw a disconnect between well-being resources and black male students on campus. Even though UGA has many well-being programs, Stinson, a fourth-year majoring in social work from Ellenwood, Georgia, and president of Black Male Leadership Society (BMLS) saw an opportunity for a student-driven avenue to connect black male students with well-being and belonging resources on campus. Working with Student Care and Outreach (SCO), Multicultural Services and Programs (MSP), and BMLS, Stinson launched UGA’s first Barbershop Talk last February 2023.

The Rite of Sankofa is an African rite-of-passage graduation ceremony that takes place every May. It is a ceremony to showcase and highlight the accomplishments of African American, and African descendant, students.

The ceremony will include speeches from President Jere W. Morehead, student speakers and a keynote speaker.