Of a feather: BUIC’s Annual Block Party 2025
Campus, Community September 22, 2025, Comments OffMany of us likely grew up hearing the popular phrase, “birds of a feather, flock together,” but how many of us have paused to think what it truly means to be “of a feather”? On September 4, 2025, Drury University’s Black United Independent Collegiate (BUIC) offered an undeniable answer through their annual Block Party held on the Kellogg Green. Students from across campus with different majors, cultural backgrounds and experiences, showed up in support, embodying the spirit of community. Surrounded by laughter, good music and delicious food: how could one not feel part of the flock?
The organization must also be highlighted for the way they incorporated activities for all. From Spikeball on the lawn to coloring pages at the tables, every attendee could find a stimulating activity to take part in while still enjoying fellowship. In a time where inclusivity is more often than not overlooked, this dedication to engaging every member of the student body is quite refreshing. When surveyed about the meaning of community to them, the responses of students at the event reflected the fact that this inclusion was well received.
“Community, to me, is a place…you can go where no matter what you do, no matter how you feel, no matter what you think, they will accept you and welcome you into that space wholeheartedly with open arms and make you feel [at] home.” one student, Christian Cuevas, said.
Another, Mikayla Pink, said “I think when organizations hold events like this, this is community. I get to see all my friends with their busy schedules, and I get to see people that I haven’t seen since the first week of school. That’s community. That’s what I love!”
With all of the positive sentiments in the air, it may be hard to imagine a way to sweeten the deal, but BUIC once again upped the ante. Unwilling to let everyone leave empty handed, a free raffle was held, and several lucky students walked away with prizes like baskets of cleaning supplies, miscellaneous school materials, and even a new smart television.
Overall, the Block Party can be heralded as nothing short of a success, accomplishing the much needed task of unifying the student body. To close with the sentiments of the BUIC President, Lauren Coleman: without community, many would not have survived college, learned much of what they have or garnered many of their experiences up until this point. It is apparent that Drury University can look towards a future where BUIC continues to foster community and break barriers as it has done since the organization’s inception in 1971.
Photos courtesy of the author, Hannah Bryant
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