Black Student Union unites people of African descent into an effective lobby for the acknowledgment of our rich culture, including all the aspects of black life. Founded in 1968, BSU was established to make sure our needs were heard on this campus. Meeting once a week for about one or two hours for our general body meetings, we discuss issues affecting blacks on campus, in the Binghamton community and in America in general. Other organizations that have branched from BSU include the Caribbean Student Association, the Haitian Student Association and the African Student Organization. Though separate organizations, we aim for the same goals and work tightly together. The Black Student Union also sponsors numerous social, academic and community service-oriented programs, from Def Comedy Jam to Black History Month events to our Youth Program at Binghamton’s Urban League. Look for announcements on general body meeting days and times.

Russian Klub
Started in 1994, Russian Klub existed on and off throughout the following years. Currently it consists of about 130 members and meets once a week on a regular basis. The main emphasis of the club is to promote an interest in the Russian culture and language. The club is not limited to Russian speakers and is comprised of members who have diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. Activities of the club range from Russian movie nights, cultural talks by guest speakers, and basic fun activities such as date auctions, camping trips, and Russian bake sales. To join visit our website or come to any of our weekly meetings.

Brothers and Sisters in Christ (BASIC) is a Christian fellowship that strongly emphasizes: the importance of salvation through the shed blood of Jesus Christ; the baptism in the Holy Spirit as an essential part in the life of a Christian; worship and praise, fully experienced by following and obeying the biblical pattern; a living relationship with and commitment to a local church; a personal destiny known by each student, realizing his or her important role in history; prayer, which is essential for Christian growth and for effective evangelism; and evangelism by proclaiming Jesus and His love, with sensitivity and confidence. BASIC has on-campus meetings that consist of spirit-filled praise and worship, preaching of the Bible, Bible studies, group discussions and testimonials, and prayer; we also invite guest speakers from various local churches. BASIC also has semester retreats where hundreds of students representing colleges throughout the Northeast gather and experience dynamic worship and anointed preaching. If you would like more information about BASIC, call Resurrection Life Fellowship at 723-2118.

Campus Bible Fellowship is a student-run group sponsored by local churches that seeks to add a spiritual dimension to academic life. This is accomplished through weekly meetings, literature tables, retreats and other special activities. Bible studies attempt to explain the truths of God and apply them to daily life. Questions and discussion are encouraged. Sharing personal faith in Christ with others on campus is also emphasized. Interested students are invited to stop by the CBF literature table in the Union or call 775-2107.

Caribbean Student Association serves the interests of Caribbean and non-Caribbean students by providing cultural, political and social information about the Caribbean area through guest speakers, an annual carnival and a cultural night, with specific focus on each Caribbean island.

Catholic Students/Newman Association is the Roman Catholic community at the University that fosters the spiritual, intellectual and social growth of Catholic students. Sunday Mass is scheduled at Newman House at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., when the University is in session. The Newman House is located at 400 Murray Hill Rd. on the east side of the campus. It is accessible by footpath, a two-minute walk from Bingham Hall in Newing College. The community organizes one or two retreats each year, plus community dinners and brunches, field trips and prayer groups. The community’s activities are managed by an elected council made up mostly of students. Our liturgical musicians, readers and ministers of Communion are mostly students, and new volunteers are welcome. There is a small library at the Newman House containing books that help students better understand the Catholic tradition. The Newman House is open to students for study, social gatherings, hanging out, etc., from about 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day when the University is in session; the chapel is always open for private prayer. The chaplain, Father Bob Sullivan, has many years of experience working with students, and is available for personal counseling both at the Newman House and at the Religious Advisers’ Office (UU 218). Appointments are not necessary, but may be helpful. Call 798-7202.

Chabad House — Jewish Student Center is an active, friendly group dedicated to serving the needs of the Jewish students on campus. The group embraces students of all backgrounds and brings meaning, joy and fun to Judaism. The organization’s broad spectrum of activities has something for everybody. Chabad sponsors Shabbat and holiday services and dinners, Falafel Nights, movies, parties, lectures, workshops, and grand holiday celebrations. Its modern and well-appointed facility is located just beyond campus at 420 Murray Hill Rd. There students will find a well-stocked Jewish book and tape library and resource center, a comfortable lounge to study or hang out in, and understanding staff who are ready to listen and lend assistance. Classes in Jewish studies are given on all levels, and private classes can be arranged. For more information, call Chabad House at 797-0015.

Chi Alpha Campus Ministries (XA) is an interdenominational Christian fellowship, though chiefly supported as a missions arm of the Assemblies of God. XA was organized exclusively for these purposes: to provide an alternative to traditional Greek organizations; to promote leadership and integrity to future professional business men and women; and to participate in the fulfillment of Christ’s Great Commission on the campus. Through Chi Alpha, many talented men and women are called to minister on campuses and throughout the world. Chi Alpha takes its name from the Greek words christou apostoloi, "Christ’s sent believers" — promoting worship, fellowship, discipleship and witness. We are open to all people from every nation, every tongue and tribe. XA is the second most ethnically diverse Christian campus ministry in the United States.

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Chinese Christian Fellowship (CCF) The goals of CCF are to build up the body of Christ through Bible studies, prayer meetings, speakers, videos, etc.; to help students discover God’s role for them through Gospel meetings and radio shows; and to provide an atmosphere where Christians and non-Christians can feel welcome and encouraged to interact with one another through fellowship, outings and games. CCF welcomes various Chinese dialects, as well as English.

French Language and Culture Association is open to all students interested in French language and customs. At our biweekly meetings, we engage in various activities including watching French movies, exploring French cuisine and going on occasional field trips. We hope to see you next semester!

Haitian Student Association (HaSA) unites the Haitian and non-Haitian students on campus. It features Haitian Culture Night, speakers and other activities to make the community more aware of Haitians and their culture. Every week, each member of the HaSA learns something new.

Hong Kong Exchange Square was founded at Binghamton University in fall 1994. The objective of this organization is to bring about Asian awareness, specifically focusing on Hong Kong. Through an annual Hong Kong Night, we strive to promote a deeper understanding of Hong Kong/Chinese culture to the entire student body. Through cultural workshops, we educate our members on current events as well as historical facts. We also encourage students to participate in social activities such as a karaoke dinner, ski trips, horseback riding, intramural sports, etc. Our organization sponsors numerous functions ranging from a weekly radio show, H. K. Visage (90.5FM), to movie nights featuring Hong Kong’s most recent movies, to newsletters, to an annual scholarship award for Asian students in the Educational Opportunity Program.

Indian Christian Fellowship is a non-profit organization dedicated and committed to sharing the spirit of Christ amongst its members. We as a group hope to develop the spiritual life of our constituency by means of praise and worship, allowing open discussions to take place, and by providing a setting in which people can share their personal experiences as well as Christian beliefs and understanding. Through the fellowship we hope to spark a passion for Jesus Christ and a sense of unity amongst our members.

Indian International Student Union was formed in 1986 to provide a means for social interaction among people of South Asian descent and students of other backgrounds. Through the common goals of concerned and interested students, we aim to help others appreciate the rich cultural heritage of India. By sponsoring dinners, speakers and performers and celebrating cultural events, the organization has helped expose Binghamton University to the fascinating culture of India.

InterVarsity Christian Fellowship is an interdenominational student-run organization committed to engaging our campus in all its ethnic diversity with the gospel of Jesus Christ. IVCF offers an opportunity for students to grow spiritually and increase their knowledge of God and the Bible through weekly Bible studies, prayer groups and large-group fellowship meetings. It also provides a forum for students interested in learning more about Christianity.

Hillel — The Jewish Student Union is a nondenominational student-run organization whose purpose is to provide programming and support for all Jewish students. We are here to serve and respond to the needs of these students, irrespective of their philosophical and religious views or backgrounds. We are the umbrella organization for a number of groups, including Kaskeset (Jewish a cappella) and AIPAC (American Israel Political Action Committee). Together, we provide a variety of activities, from educational programming to social events. Whether it is coming to a Shabbat dinner or visiting a local nursing home, we would love for you to be a part of the up-and-coming Hillel — JSU. Our office is located in the basement of the Union, and our extension is x74980.

Korean-American Christian Fellowship is an interdenominational student-led organization. It provides a way for Christian education and growth through areas such as speakers, Bible studies, prayer meetings, fellowships, gatherings and its evangelistic outreach (Living Water) held each spring semester.

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Latin American Student Union is the political, cultural and social outlet of the Latin American campus and surrounding community. In the Latin(o) tradition of protest, LASU organizes Latinas(os) and other people of color toward student empowerment in its Political Action Committee (PAC). LASU also celebrates Latin American culture in its various cultural subgroups: Quimbamba dance, La Raza Theatre Group and LaVoz Latina/Azabache newspaper. Amongst LASU’s most important events are the Afro-Latin Cultural Festival, Latino Weekend, Latin Heritage Month and El Mes De La Mujer. Weekly meetings feature a social, educational and political forum for Latino, black and Asian students interested in the political and cultural struggle of Latinas and Latinos.

Muslim Student Association (MSA) is an Islamic organization that strives to serve the needs of the Muslim student population on and off campus, the surrounding Muslim community and others with an interest in Islamic culture. The purpose of the MSA is to create an awareness of the Islamic doctrine as a unique culture and heritage as well as to promote camaraderie and friendship among its members. Activities include weekly meetings, weekly tabling, the weekly radio show ISLAM 101, weekly Quranic study groups, a yearly picnic, an annual Islamic Awareness Week, banquets, trips, conferences, and formal and informal discussions on a variety of culturally, spiritually and intellectually stimulating topics. MSA is also affiliated with the Muslim Students Association of the United States and Canada.

Rainbow Pride Union is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive atmosphere to meet the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered (LGBT), queer-supportive and sexual identity-questioning students, faculty and administration at Binghamton University and local communities. The RPU promotes tolerance, understanding and education on LGBT issues, in addition to holding various social events throughout the year. Our University Union basement office provides us with a meeting room; a social space; a book, magazine, video and other resources library; and a base for building a community.

The Womyn’s Center serves as a resource for information and support services for the women of Binghamton University. In addition, we try to raise consciousness about women’s issues, which include reproductive rights, violence against women, sexual health, and political and social action. We hold weekly meetings with social activities and discussions. The Womyn’s Center also brings events and performances related to women to campus.

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