About Us
History
The Black Faculty and Staff Association of the University of South Florida was formed in 1972 when a small group of concerned community members and the University of South Florida (USF) faculty and staff met to discuss the climate and practice of systemic racism in the hiring and firing of black faculty, the process and practice of tenure and promotion, as well as the declining retention rate of black students. Among those championing this cause were Troy Collier, M.A., Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. John Smith, Professor College of The Arts, Dr. Alma Bryant, (deceased) Associate Professor English, Mr. Richard Pride, College of Education, Upward Bound and Dr. Lowell E. Davis, Dean - USF St. Petersburg campus. This discussion ultimately led to a germinal meeting to discuss the status of black life on campus with then University President Dr. Cecil Mackey in 1974. In 1975 this group of citizens was reconstituted as the Black Faculty Caucus and officially commissioned as the Black Faculty and Staff Association in 1980 under the guidance of Dean Davis.
Each fall semester BFSA hosts an annual breakfast to welcome new black faculty and staff of the University as well as recognize recent promotions. The heart of BFSA is centered on support in our quest to foster a work environment of respect and cooperation throughout all USF campuses. As a voluntary member-supported affinity group, BFSA endeavors to offer interdependent support through professional and social networking by hosting events such as professional workshops and lectures. We are committed to being actively involved with the recruitment and retention of well-qualified and talented employees along with promoting the success of USF students.
In moving forward to fulfill our commitment to BFSA members and the USF community, we realize that there is no us without you. BFSA can be no greater than the participation and commitment of its members and we need your creative ideas, innovative suggestions and active involvement to make this organization and its work rise to the excellence we each embody.