Eastern’s Minority Affairs department welcomed alumni back to campus this weekend with the Black Student Reunion.

BSR is not just a celebration, but a group of events created to raise scholarship money for current Eastern students. Alumni came from all over to participate in this occasion.

The reunion started with an alumni social in the Grand Ballroom of the Martin Luther King Jr. University Union. There was also a battle of the DJ’s in McAfee Gym along with the comedy show with famous comedians Damon Williams and Leon Rodgers.

Saturday started off with a Black Expo in the Grand Ballroom. This event had vendors from the Decatur, Champaign, Chicago and East St. Louis area providing information to students who are interested in business.

Following the expo was reunion tailgating at the O’Brien Field, co-sponsored by Greek organizations. Co-sponsors Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. helped put together the Old School Alumni Greek Sip at the Elk Lodge in Charleston. This event was dedicated solely dedicated to Alumni Greeks.

The biggest event Saturday night was the NPHC step show at the McAfee Gym. Five fraternities and sororities had a step off to showcase who had the best moves and dedication to their organization. Delta Sigma Theta and Zeta Phi Beta competed against one another as well as Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi and Phi Beta Sigma.

The first place prize, a check for $1,000, was awarded to Phi Beta Sigma and Delta Sigma Theta.

“I’m so proud of the Sigmas. They deserved to win,” said Jamiee Green, a biology major.

The second place winners received a check for $500 and was awarded to Alpha Phi Alpha and Zeta Phi Beta.

“All the Greeks put on a good performance. I enjoyed myself,” said Sean Dishmon, an audience member.

Shortly after the step show was the McAfee Gym Union party. People came from all over in their best attire to mingle, dance and watch the Greek’s stroll. Strolling is a type of step in which members of a fraternity or sorority stand behind one another and step.

“It’s always fun to watch the Greeks stroll. It was the highlight of the evening,” said Natonja Wells, a corporate communications major.

Sunday concluded with a unity prayer and continental breakfast at the Cultural Center

Sierra Teague can be reached at 581-7942 or at slteague@eiu.edu.