Your Hub for Support, Belonging, and Success

Finding Your Community. Building Your Future.

Office of African-American Affairs | University of Virginia

Since 1976, the Office of African-American Affairs (OAAA) has served as a cornerstone of support, advocacy, and belonging at UVA. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive environment where students of all identities can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Through mentorship, leadership development, cultural programming, and community-building experiences, OAAA helps students find connection, confidence, and success throughout their UVA journey.

Everyone is welcome.

OAAA programs, events, services, and spaces are open to all students. We are committed to fostering an environment where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

 

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👥Peer Advisor Program

Start UVA connected, confident, and supported from day one.

Personalized Guidance. Lifelong Connections.

The nationally recognized Peer Advisor (PA) Program connects incoming first-year and transfer students with trained peer mentors who help make the transition to UVA easier and more rewarding.

Your Peer Advisor Will Help You:

✅ Navigate campus life

✅ Discover resources and opportunities

✅ Build meaningful connections

✅ Gain confidence during your transition

✅ Find community from day one

Who Can Participate?

The Peer Advisor Program is open to all incoming first-year and transfer UVA students. We welcome students from every background, school, identity, and lived experience

Ready to Get Connected?

Whether you are looking for help navigating campus, building community, finding resources, getting involved, or simply having someone in your corner, this program is for you.

🔗 Opt-In to the Peer Advisor Program

GradSTAR helps students build the skills, networks, and confidence needed to excel at UVA and beyond.

🏛 Luther Porter Jackson Black Cultural Center

A Place to Connect, Learn, and Belong

The LPJ Black Cultural Center is a welcoming space that celebrates Black culture, excellence, and community while providing resources for all students.

What You'll Find

📚 Cultural research resources

🎤 Workshops and community conversations

📖 Quiet study areas

🤝 Group meeting and collaboration spaces

🌐 Networking opportunities

☕ Spaces to relax, recharge, and connect

🎶 Bridge Friday

Every Friday | 1:30–3:00 PM | Dawson's Row

A beloved OAAA tradition where students gather to enjoy:

• Good food
• Great music
• Community fellowship
• Casual networking
• A welcoming atmosphere

Whether you're meeting friends or making new ones, Bridge Friday is a space to unwind, connect, and celebrate community.

🤝 Meet the OAAA Team

Office of African American Affairs

"Empowering students, building community, and fostering excellence."

Darren D. Kelly

Executive Director and Dean, Office of African American Affairs

Provides strategic leadership for the Office of African American Affairs, advancing initiatives that support student achievement, inclusion, community engagement, and institutional excellence.

"Our greatest impact comes from creating opportunities that empower students to thrive academically, professionally, and personally."

Jeffery C. Smith II

Assistant Director, Office of African American Affairs 

Supports the development and implementation of programs, services, and initiatives that foster student success and strengthen the OAAA's mission and impact.

"Success begins when students feel supported, connected, and inspired to reach their full potential."

Chimene Boone

Assistant Director, Office of African American Affairs and the GradSTAR Program

Leads the GradSTAR Program and supports initiatives that prepare students for graduate and professional education while promoting academic and leadership development.

"Every student deserves the guidance, encouragement, and resources needed to pursue their highest aspirations."

Hashim O. Davis

Assistant Director, Office of African American Affairs and the Luther P. Jackson Black Cultural Center

Oversees cultural programming and educational experiences that celebrate Black culture, heritage, and community while fostering student engagement and belonging.

"Culture, community, and connection are essential to building a meaningful student experience."

Kelsie D. Kelly

STEM and Pre-Health Advisor, Office of African American Affairs Assistant Professor of Public Health Sciences

Provides advising and mentorship for students pursuing STEM and pre-health pathways while contributing to teaching and scholarship in Public Health Sciences.

"Curiosity, preparation, and perseverance open doors to endless possibilities in STEM and healthcare."

Angela Comfort

Senior Administrative Operations Assistant

Coordinates administrative operations, office management functions, event logistics, and executive support to help ensure the efficient delivery of OAAA programs and services.

"Excellence is achieved when strong organization and dedicated service create opportunities for everyone to succeed."

Deanna Carter

Administrative and Office Specialist

Provides vital administrative and operational support, assisting with office processes, customer service, and day-to-day activities that support the office's mission.

"A welcoming environment begins with kindness, professionalism, and a commitment to helping others."

Our Commitment

✅ Student Success
✅ Academic Excellence
✅ Leadership Development
✅ Cultural Engagement
✅ Community Building
✅ Educational Opportunity

Together, we are committed to supporting students, enriching experiences, and fostering a community where every individual can thrive.

📅 Schedule a Meeting

Support When You Need It

At the heart of OAAA is a dedicated team committed to helping students navigate their UVA experience.

Our staff are available for one-on-one support in areas including:

✅ Academic planning and goal setting

✅ Leadership development

✅ Campus engagement and involvement

✅ Personal and social challenges

✅ Resource referrals and advocacy

✅ Community building and connection

Let's Talk.

Need guidance, support, or simply someone to listen?

OAAA team members are available to meet with students one-on-one to discuss challenges, opportunities, goals, and resources.

Whether you're facing an academic concern, looking for campus connections, or seeking advice, we're here to help.

🔗 Schedule an Appointment