History of the Thea Bowman AHANA and Intercultural Center

Since its founding 43 years ago, the Thea Bowman AHANA and Intercultural Center has grown substantially to meet the needs of Boston College’s increasingly diverse student population, and has changed its name several times to reflect this growth and change. Today, BAIC serves 735 BC students each year through its 23 regular programs, and touches even more through single events, presentations, outreach, and collaboration with other BC departments. 

Key milestones in BAIC's evolution
 

Biography of Dr. Benjamin Mays

In his hundreds of writings, including articles, books, and pamphlets, Dr. Mays encouraged academic excellence and vigorously challenged segregation in schooling, housing, and employment.

Sr. Thea Bowman tribute

Sister Thea Bowman made more than 100 public appearances each year, spreading the message that cross-cultural collaboration enriches both education and living.

AHANA defined

The term AHANA was coined in 1979 by two students, Alfred Feliciano and Valerie Lewis, who argued that the name better celebrated our society's cultural differences.