February marks the start of the national celebration of Black History Month.
Join members of the GovState community in celebrating and honoring the rich heritage and cultures with a wide range of events and activities hosted by the Center for Student Engagement and Leadership and campus partners.
Monday, February 2
Soul Food Monday
Time: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Hall of Honors
Event Overview: Come taste the flavors of traditional Soul Food while playing a round of Black History Trivia. Students, faculty and staff are also encouraged to wear African inspired attire in celebration of Black History Month.
Legacy & Leadership: A Black Greek Lettered Organization Exhibit
Time: All Week
Location: D-Atrium
Event Overview: Legacy & Leadership: A Black Greek Lettered Organization Exhibit is an educational and cultural showcase highlighting the history, values, and lasting impact of the nine organizations that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), also known as the Divine Nine.
Wednesday, February 4
36th Annual African American Read-In
Time: 5 - 7 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview: The African American Read-In is a celebration of literacy, culture, and storytelling. Participants will read poetry, short stories, and selected works of literature. Others will share personal reflections on how an author—or a specific piece of writing—has influenced their lives. Join us as we honor the power of words and the voices that continue to inspire generations.
Men’s Basketball Game
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Come show your support for our Jaguar athletes and don't forget to bring your school spirit!
Thursday, February 5
Black History Educational Symposium
Time: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Engbretson Hall
Event Overview:
Join the Office of Institutional Engagement and Excellence for a vibrant day-long celebration of culture, learning, and community engagement. This event features a series of thought-provoking discussions, workshops, and cultural performances, all designed to honor the rich history and contributions of Black individuals and communities.
Saturday, February 7
Men’s Volleyball
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Come cheer on the GovState Men’s Volleyball Team and don’t forget to bring your school spirit!
Wednesday, February 11
Unity in Action-Blood Drive
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: E-Lounge
Event Overview: In collaboration with Kaleidoscope Community Service Council and Versiti Blood Center, Governors State University will host a campus blood drive. Your donation will make a significant impact. Unite in action to give blood and help save lives!
Register nowFriday, February 13
Black History Month Showcase
Time: 7 - 9 p.m.
Location: Sherman Hall
Event Overview: Celebrate the richness of Black history through an inspiring tribute to movement and rhythm, featuring captivating performances by the GovState Dance Company and community partners. This event will showcase powerful dance performances that honor culture, resilience, and artistry.
Sunday, February 15
The Rat Pack
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Center for Performing Arts
Event Overview: Step back in time to the glitz and glamour of 1960s Las Vegas in this unforgettable tribute to the original kings of cool—Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. The Rat Pack in Concert brings the magic of their legendary performances to life with spot-on vocals, sharp wit, and swingin’ classics like “That’s Amore,” “Mr. Bojangles,” and “My Way.”
Buy ticketsTuesday February 17
Diamond Painting Night
Time: 6 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Hall of Honors
Event Overview: Celebrate creativity, culture, and history with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Students are invited to participate in a Black History–inspired Diamond Painting activity while learning about influential figures, movements, and moments that have shaped the Black experience.
Wednesday, February 18
Paris in Black
Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: DuSable Museum
Event Overview: Experience the City of Lights with the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council! Paris in Black traces the profound journeys of Black artists, writers, performers, and intellectuals who found freedom, inspiration, and transformation in the in the liberating cultural and social environment of Paris. This event is open to all GovState students. Please register via Jaguar Connection. Complimentary admission and transportation provided. Limited seats.
Register nowThursday, February 19
Feed the Future, Honor the Past
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Food Pantry, B1242
Event Overview: Help Kaleidoscope Community Service Council Feed the Future by volunteering at our next food pantry delivery. This is your chance to make an impact by unloading and sorting food, restocking shelves, and helping ensure GovState students have access to the resources they need. Please register via Jaguar Connection.
Register now
On My Block Candy Store
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Lounge
Event Overview: Black Student Union is bringing back their highly requested “ON MY BLOCK” candy store! Reminisce on the good old days by purchasing your favorite childhood candy, Double Dutch rope, hand games and more! CASH ONLY.
Saturday, February 21
Senior Night - Women’s Basketball
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: GovState Gymnasium
Event Overview: Join the Women’s Basketball team to celebrate Senior Night! Fans are encouraged to wear Cancer Awareness shirts and/ribbons to acknowledge the impact that Cancer has on the Black community.
Thursday, February 26
Event TBA
Time: TBA
Location: TBA
Event Overview: TBA
Women's History Month recognizes the impact that women have made throughout history. The 2026 theme acknowledges the need to eliminate bias and discrimination from our lives and institutions.
March 1 – 31
National Women’s History Museum
Founded in 1996, the National Women's History Museum affirms the value of knowing women's history, illuminates the role of women in transforming society, and encourages all people, to participate in democratic dialogue about our future. Explore all of the resources the National Women’s History Museum has to offer!
Monday, March 2
Send Her Strength
Time: 12 – 1 p.m.
Location: Lakeside Cove
Event Overview: In honor of Women’s History Month, join the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council as we celebrate, uplift, and show appreciation for the women who inspire us every day. Stop by to write a thank-you note or letter of encouragement to women in your community, including peers and mentors.
Questions? E-mail Kaleidoscope@govst.edu.
Tuesday, March 3
Behind the Needle
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Hall of Honors
Event Overview:
Hear their stories, explore their creative journeys, and learn what it takes to make your mark in the industry. This dynamic conversation spotlights talented local female artists who are redefining tattoo culture.
Questions? E-mail GetInvolved@govst.edu.
Wednesday, March 10
She-Nanigans
Time: 1 – 2 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Stop by to share your thoughts on the accomplishments of women and girls through open dialogue.
Sponsored by the Student Success Initiative.
Questions? Email SSI@govst.edu.
Wanted: Bag Securing Ivies
Time: 4 – 6 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Join the Upstanding ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Upsilon Rho chapter for a Myth or Truth event on economic wealth.
Monday, March 16 – 27
EmpowerHer Hygiene Drive
Location: Campuswide
Event Overview: IHelp support the GovState Food Pantry by donating new, unopened essentials such as pads/tampons, soap, deodorant, and toothpaste.
Questions? Email GetInvolved@govst.edu.
Monday, March 23
Real Talk: Women and Boundaries Panel
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Join L.O.V.E. for an open and empowering conversation centered on women and the importance of setting healthy boundaries. This interactive panel of L.O.V.E. mentors and GovState staff will explore real-life experiences and practical strategies related to friendship dynamics, dating, family expectations, and balancing school and work responsibilities. Sponsored by the Ladies of Virtue and Excellence (L.O.V.E).
Tuesday, March 24
Glow & Grow: Self-Love Social
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Hall of Honors
Event Overview: This Women’s History Month event is an exciting, uplifting event celebrating confidence, creativity, and the power of women supporting women all while raising funds for the Jaguar Drill Team! Join us for a fun, feel-good experience filled with DIY empowerment crafts, self-care activities, snacks, confidence photo ops, and positive vibes.
Thursday, March 26
Women’s History Month Tea: Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: E-Lounge
Event Overview: The Women’s History Month Tea is a signature Governors State University event that celebrates the impact of women while fostering meaningful connections beyond campus. Framed by the 2026 theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” the Tea brings together a thoughtfully curated group of alumni, community partners, leaders, supporters, students, and employees whose work and values align with shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future. RSVP requested.
Monday, March 30
She Deserves Care
Time: 2 – 4 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: Jaguars, are you looking for a hands-on service event? Team up with the Kaleidoscope Community Service Council to assemble essential care kits. Grab a friend, build a kit, and help support GovState students. All kits will be donated to the GovState Food Pantry.
Questions? E-mail Kaleidoscope@govst.edu.
Tuesday, March 31
GovState Women on Fire! Game Night
Time: 5 – 7 p.m.
Location: D1496
Event Overview: This game night brings major heat with high-energy trivia questions celebrating the women who have made history and continue to spark change. Come ready for friendly competition, prizes, and light refreshments. This event will be FIRE! Questions?
Questions? E-mail Kaleidoscope@govst.edu.