African American/ Black Diaspora Affinity Network

Mission Statement/About Us:

Mission Statement: The African American /Black Diaspora Affinity Group at NYU Stern School of Business aims to promote the well-being and success of Black faculty, administrators, staff, and students by advocating for equity, recognition, inclusion, and belonging for all members of our community. This group is composed of current employees, select retired members of the Stern community, and alumni. We strive to promote unity, provide support, and build a sustained and engaged community among our members. 

Our goals are:  

• To encourage anti-racism mindset at Stern by furthering awareness of inequity and injustice created by implicit bias;
• To be a voice for the successful recruitment, retention, promotion, and career advancement of the African American/Black Diaspora at Stern; 
• To provide mentorship opportunities for faculty, administrators, staff, and students; and
• To develop and cultivate social and educational programs that promote cultural awareness and exchange. 

Our activities include:

• Monthly meetings with Affinity Network members;
• Guest speakers from current and past members of the community;
• Collaboration with other Affinity Networks within Stern and the University at-large; and
• Celebration of all important African American events (i.e., Black History Month, Juneteenth, etc.)

Our representatives are:

• Alex Dontoh, Professor of Accounting 
• Erica Hartsfield, Senior Associate Director, MBA Admissions 
• Cynthia Franklin (MBA ’92), Director, Berkley Center for Entrepreneurship
• Marie-Rose Nduku (BS ’95), Executive Director, Academic Advising and Graduate Financial Aid

To get involved: contact AABD@stern.nyu.edu.