The 41st annual Black History Month Kick-Off Brunch will be on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 in The University of New Mexico Student Union Building Ballrooms. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. and will feature keynote speaker Nichole Rogers. This year’s theme is “Rooted in Legacy, rising in Purpose: The Power of Participatory Change.” 

A proud New Mexican, Rogers was the first African-American woman elected to the Albuquerque City Council. Throughout her career, she has been privileged to work with community members, business leaders, healthcare workers, non-profits, and the City of Albuquerque to actualize a vision of support and well-being for those who live in Albuquerque. Rogers focuses on centering her community’s voices to develop tangible solutions to the challenges District 6 faces, so that everyone can thrive and belong. Councilor Nichole Rogers is the first African-American Woman elected to the Albuquerque City Council. 

The event is co-sponsored by the Africana Studies Department and the UNM African American Student Services Program. Tickets can be purchased online.

Contact Africana Studies for any questions at africana@unm.edu.