Welcome to the latest post in our “About Us” series, which aims to answer frequently asked questions about the HTC and provide more context about our mission at Boston University.
So, what can you do at the new Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground?
At 20,000 square feet, our new location at 808 Comm Ave is five times the size of our old digs in the GSU. The space features a meditation room, a kitchenette-esque nook, classrooms and meeting rooms with sweeping views of Comm Ave and the city, and more. But the question remains: what can you do with all this space?
Well, first and foremost, you never have to do anything at the Howard Thurman Center. You do not need a reason or explanation to come in and come alive in our space. However, if you’d like a reason to be here, we have plenty:
Programs
The HTC offers more than a dozen regularly occurring programs, most of which are hosted by our own student ambassadors. No two programs are alike – each has been thoughtfully designed with our incredibly dynamic and diverse university community in mind. We hope you find that there is something for everyone, including you, at the HTC.
For example:
Late Night Listens
This monthly program celebrates iconic artists, albums, and genre-defining moments. All BU students are invited to this listening party – and we do mean party (sing along! Dance if the spirit moves you) and discussion about the music and artist. Past playlists include East Coast v. West Coast Hip Hop, Cardi B’s Invasion of Privacy, Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, Queen’s A Night at the Opera, and Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever. These playlists and more can be found on our Spotify @buhtc.
Tea Time
This weekly program celebrates the flavors, traditions, and ceremonies of tea from countries around the world. Students are invited to sample loose-leaf teas and join in thoughtful and thought-provoking discussions led by our student ambassadors.
Student-Faculty Forums
Our monthly forums are hosted in partnership with Dean Emerita Virigina Sapiro, Professor of Political Science and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. This program creates opportunities for students and professors to explore challenging and nuanced topics like the #MeToo movement, tensions with North Korea, and the ethics of human genome testing.
To learn more about all of the HTC’s programs, please visit our website.
Special Events
The HTC loves a good party. Join us for a whole week of them to celebrate our Grand Opening. The full list of events is on our calendar, including:
Pro Sports & Pop Culture: A Lasting Marriage?
Panelists Kevin Merida (ESPN SVP), Michael Holley (co-host of “Boston Sports Tonight” on NBC Sports Boston), and Shira Springer (sports and society reporter, WBUR) join us to discuss the changing power and influence of sports in America.
Tuesday, January 21, 6-7:30 PM
Coffee & Conversation
Associate Provost and Dean of Students Kenn Elmore takes back the reins of the program he first created 15 years ago. There is no shortage of topics worth discussing in the news and pop culture, and the ones that will guide our conversation will be announced that day.
Friday, January 24, 3 – 5 PM
An HTC Celebration!
To cap off a full week of housewarming festivities, we simply insist you come dance the night away with us. Featuring live music and dancers from Rhythm Nation 02119 and a bar for the 21+ crowd, we assure you this will be the best party of the decade (so far).
Saturday, January 25, 8 PM
For more information about all our Grand Opening week events, please visit our website.