IBL 40th Anniversary
IBL 40th Anniversary
In 2026, the èAV Institute on Black Life (IBL) celebrates 40 years of scholarship, student success, and community engagement. Established in 1986 under the leadership of founding director Dr. Juel Shannon Smith, IBL was envisioned as a bridge between USF and the surrounding community—a vision that continues to guide its work today. For four decades, the Institute has brought together students, faculty, scholars and community partners to deepen understanding of Black life in the United States, Africa and across the African Diaspora through interdisciplinary research, education, cultural engagement and service. As IBL honors the people, partnerships and accomplishments that have shaped its first 40 years, the Institute looks ahead to its next chapter and a continued commitment to fostering intellectual community, creating opportunities for students and strengthening connections between USF and the communities it serves.
IBL Gala
Join the USF Institute on Black Life for A Celebration of Legacy & the Future, a special gala commemorating 40 years of scholarship, community engagement and impact. Together, we will honor the people and partnerships that have shaped IBL’s legacy while celebrating the vision and possibilities that will carry the Institute into its next chapter.
IBL 2027 Annual Conference
The 2027 USF Institute on Black Life Annual Conference will be held at the USF St. Pete Campus on February 2, 2027. Our theme “Waters of Black Life” takes advantage of the location to explore topics from natural disasters and displacement to public health, environmental justice, and even the joyful ways Black communities engage with water. The program features national and local keynote speakers, panels with members of the Tampa Bay community who represent our complex relationship with water. We welcome submissions to our Call of Proposals that will be available in September.