YBS 55th Anniversary Celebration Gala

Join us as we commemorate 55 years of excellence and resilience with the Yale Black Seminarians!

This one-day extravaganza will feature a captivating panel discussion, a soul-stirring chapel service at Marquand Chapel, and a glamorous gala reception in the evening, replete with hors d'oeuvres, speeches, and dancefloor! The 55th-anniversary celebration aims to reunite YBS alumni, current students, and allies for an enriching blend of fellowship, dialogue, and prayer, as we chart the course for the future of YBS, the Black Church, and society at large.

Embracing the theme "This is our story," (drawn from the old hymn, “Blessed Assurance”) we'll share tales of perseverance and triumph over white supremacist structures and systems, celebrating our journey together. Don't miss out on this historic event of reflection, empowerment, and unity!

The Yale Black Seminarians (YBS) was founded 55 years ago as a beacon of hope, community, and advocacy within Yale Divinity School. Since its inception, YBS has been a vital force in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the institution and beyond. Through its programming, mentorship, and activism, YBS has empowered generations of Black seminarians to navigate the complexities of theological education while challenging systemic injustices. Today, YBS continues to serve as a catalyst for change, fostering dialogue, solidarity, and spiritual resilience among its members and the wider community. As we celebrate 55 years of YBS, we honor its legacy of courage, resilience, and vision for a more just and equitable world.