Charles E. Sykes, Director
Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center
275 North Jordan, Suite 310; IUB
(812) 855-9501
(812) 855-5168 FAX
Email center
Founded in 1974, the African American Arts Institute (AAAI) is a multi-faceted arts program operating under the Office of the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Multicultural Affairs. The AAAI mission is to preserve and promote African American culture through research, creative activity, education, performance, and outreach. In fulfillment of its mission, the Institute engages in the following activities:
- Performances featuring its music and dance ensembles
- Lectures, workshops, and other special events
- Innovative approaches to teaching students of diverse backgrounds
- Creating and performing original artistic works
- Performance training and professional work experience for students
- Touring activities that reach people of all ages and social, ethnic, racial and cultural backgrounds
The Institute houses three ensembles; the African American Dance Company, the African American Choral Ensemble, and the IU Soul Revue. These ensembles are offered concurrently as courses through the Department of African American and African Diaspora Studies.
