Fitchburg State University will celebrate Black History Month in February with a series of events exploring the 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” highlighting the enduring legacy and transformative power of honoring history over the past 100 years.
The theme centers on the vision of Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the founders of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASALH), whose efforts institutionalized the study, preservation, and celebration of Black life, culture, and achievement. From the establishment of Negro History Week to the global observance of Black History Month, these commemorations have shaped how Black people understand their past and assert their place in the present and future.
For the university's exploration of these topics, Fitchburg State’s Black History Month initiative, includes cross-sectional representation within the institution, solicited programs from across all campus constituencies. The result is a diverse array of events including speakers from the university faculty and student body, as well as alumni and invited guests.
Black History Month kicks off on campus on Monday, Feb. 2 with the official flag raising from 4-5 p.m. at Hammond Hall’s Main Lounge.
Other events include an alumni panel who will share personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs during and after college on Wednesday, Feb. 18 from 4-6 p.m. at Hammond’s Hall Main Lounge, and the Fitchburg Activities Board’s Comedy Show featuring Elijah Nevels on Thursday, Feb. 26 from 6-8 p.m. at Hammond Hall’s Falcon Hub.
Several of the events have been made possible through the financial support of the Newman Center Trust.
To learn more, please visit fitchburgstate.edu/bhm throughout February.