What is AYA?

“A family is like a forest, when you are outside it is dense, when you are inside you see that each tree has its place.“

~ African Proverb

AYA is the adinkra symbol of endurance and resourcefulness in the image of the fern. The fern is a hardy plant that can grow in difficult places. “An individual who wears this symbol suggests that he has endured many adversities and outlasted much difficulty.” (Willis, The Adinkra Dictionary)

The goals of the AYA Ambassadors are to maximize the leadership potential of ALL members, cultivate skills that will help members develop and operate in an afrocentricity perspective, and to provide opportunities to students that are an extension of the mission of the African American Cultural Center.

Mission and Purpose

To acknowledge, appreciate and exemplify African diasporic culture by actively engaging with the community and using innovative approaches to analyze African American culture through a non-traditional, scholarly lens. The purpose of this organization is to represent the African American Cultural Center in functions at the center as well as throughout campus.

Developmental Objectives

AYA operates under the principles of cultural competence, effective leadership, personal development, community giving and support.