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Black at Sussex objectives poster

We are currently inviting expressions of interest from staff and students who are passionate about racial equity, representation, and meaningful structural change to join the Black at Sussex Steering Group.

The Black at Sussex programme is a five-year, university-wide initiative (2022–2027) committed to improving the Black staff and student experience at the University of Sussex. With a focus on visibility, recruitment, retention, and belonging, the programme is led by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Culture, Equality and Inclusion and is steered by a cross-University group of committed individuals.

We are now looking to expand our Steering Group to ensure wide and inclusive representation across the Sussex community.

About the Programme

Black at Sussex is rooted in the lived experiences and aspirations of Black staff and students (defined here as people of African and/or Caribbean heritage and diaspora). The programme seeks to:

• Celebrate Black culture among current and former students & staff
• Establish and develop collaborative partnerships with Black led organisations, internally and externally
• Promote the university to Black students and staff.

Projects supported so far have included a high-profile Black alumni portrait series, workshops in London and local schools, and supporting a community carnival celebrating Black culture. A thriving and responsive Steering Group is essential to ensuring this work continues to centre Black voices, communities and needs.

What Does the Steering Group Do?

Steering Group members are critical to the programme’s governance, delivery and success. Members:

• Champion Black at Sussex in their schools, divisions and networks.

• Help shape strategy, assess funding proposals and contribute to decision-making.

• Participate in 4 meetings per year (including a strategy day), with around 15–18 hours annually dedicated to meetings, project review and occasional event support.

• Ensure the programme is intersectional, representative and responsive to the community it serves.

We ask members to be active participants in shaping and supporting the programme and to bring their expertise, ideas and accountability to the table.

Who Are We Looking For?

We welcome expressions of interest from across the University, but we are particularly keen to strengthen representation from:

• University of Sussex Business School (USBS)

• School of Life Sciences

• School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences

• School of Engineering and Informatics

• School of Global Studies

• Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS)

• Recent Black Sussex graduates

• Professional Services divisions currently unrepresented

We strongly encourage Black staff and students to apply, in line with the programme’s aim to maintain majority Black membership in the Steering Group.

How to Get Involved

If you are interested in joining the Black at Sussex Steering Group, please email:
blackatsussex@sussex.ac.uk

Include a short expression of interest outlining your role at Sussex, any relevant experience, and what you hope to contribute to the programme.

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