Members of the Longhorn community came together for a day of celebration at the Black History Month Cookout hosted by University Housing and Dining (UHD) and several campus partners including the DDCE and the Black Faculty and Staff Association. Featured below are a few snapshots from the event, which was held on Feb. 28, the last day of Black History Month, at the San Jacinto Multipurpose Room. The event was also highlighted in a recent podcast produced by the Division of Student Affairs.

In homage to the Pan-African flag, the room was decked in red, green and yellow decor—complete with cheerful flower centerpieces and a dash of burnt orange flair.

“We wanted to do something for Black History Month that brought the entire campus community together to celebrate the month and just to have a good time,” said Dr. Brandon Jones, associate director for student learning and development with UHD.

Guests were treated to live music as they entered the room with their filled plates.

“I was excited about the food, the music, the people and supporting the campus community as part of the University Housing and Dining,” said Caris Owen, associate director of finance and payroll with UHD.

Southern cookout staples such as mac and cheese, chicken, and green beans were all featured and enjoyed by the guests.

“I mean, who fights over a meal?” Jones said. “A cookout is a good time for everybody.”