By: Amber Good

The Student African-American Sisterhood, created in the fall of 2009 celebrated their third year of existence October 12 and are currently preparing for more festivities.

SAAS is an on-campus organization that focuses on the success and development of the University’s female African-American population.

“The main goal of SAAS is to overall prepare for the professional world,” three-year member Monique Mockabee said. “We help one another socially, academically, and with networking opportunities while in college so we have all the tools of success for the real world. We also encourage African-American women to be comfortable in their skin and to allow their inner beauty to outshine their outer.”

“At the meetings we talk about different topics that African-American women deal with and can overcome, like stereotypes, different upbringings, racism among African-Americans, African-American women in politics and more,” Mockabee said.

The organization invites speakers to discuss a variety of topics related to race, gender, careers and finances. Past speakers have included Latoni Whiteside, The Student Health and Wellness Center, Carmen Myrick, and Latasha Swoope.

“We also do other activities, like having Mary Kay representatives show us makeup tips and encouraging good health with attending Zumba and Salsa,” Mockabee said. “SAAS also participates in Make A Difference Day, Relay For Life and Up ‘Til Dawn with St. Jude’s Hospital.”

Interested students are welcome to attend meetings every Wednesday in room 310 of the Student Union from 7 to 8 p.m. On Oct. 26, a Mary Kay representative will be available to members and on Nov. 2, speaker Yvonne Pointer will discuss the death of her child and working on your inner self.

For more information on other upcoming events, visit Orgsync or the Student African-American Sisterhood Facebook page, or contact the group by email at [email protected]