WHO ARE WE?
MBSA is an organization of underrepresented individuals from various minority groups committed to fostering a welcoming, tight-knit community. We strive to empower our members with experiences and resources that help them make an impact on campus and beyond.
Members will be provided with professional opportunities aligned with DEI initiatives while they further explore their interest in business and expand their network. Underlying its goals, MBSA prides itself for providing its members a sense of belonging as they navigate their college experience
A Letter From Our President
Aayush Kabra, a junior at Gies studying Marketing and Information Systems, joined the Minority Business Students Association in the Fall of 2021. As a member of the Philanthropy Committee, he deepened his commitment to the organization by serving as the Diversity Chair, where he enabled MBSA to support campus DEI initiatives. Later, as the External Vice President, he organized corporate events and assisted members in their professional development, helping them to connect with these organizations as minorities.
“Since joining MBSA as a first-semester freshman and an out-of-state student, I have deeply appreciated how welcoming each member was and how the leadership created a space where I found a group of friends. From helping me decide on an academic pathway and crafting my professional brand to encouraging me to explore other aspects of campus life and extracurricular involvements, I owe a tremendous amount of my growth in college to MBSA, my home on campus. At our core, we strive to be just that—a home, a family, a tight-knit yet welcoming community.
I am thrilled to conclude my leadership journey in MBSA for the Spring 2024 semester, serving as President alongside a talented board with many new faces. As always, MBSA warmly welcomes all students, regardless of their background, professional interests, or year of study. This semester, in particular, we are excited to expand our relationships with other student organizations, campus programs, local minority-owned businesses, and institutions dedicated to serving the Champaign-Urbana Community.
By forging a community for our members that champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, we aim not only to prepare members for an ever-changing diverse global workforce and contribute to a more culturally sensitive and aware campus culture but also to empower them to effect change in any institution they join. I am confident that MBSA will help you discover your passions, as you come to understand that our differences are not just our strength but truly our inspiration.”
Feel free to browse our website to learn more about us and see our spring recruitment timeline and key resources. Do not hesitate to contact anyone on the leadership team if you have any questions. Your interest in MBSA is appreciated, and we’re thrilled to get to know you!
Our Pillars
Community
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Professional
Philanthropy
At the heart of our organization is a commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive community for all members. We strive to foster meaningful connections and provide opportunities for personal and professional growth through a variety of engaging activities such as mentorship programs, social events, coffee chats, and other networking opportunities.
We strive to give back to the communities in which we are involved in. As part of this mission, we actively support local minority-owned businesses and campus initiatives that prioritize diversity. We also encourage our membership to participate in civic engagement within the organization and beyond. To further our charitable efforts, we have established partnerships with organizations like Salt & Light to better serve those in need.
Our organization strives to provide guidance to individuals on their unique professional journeys. We aim to support our members in achieving their career ambitions by offering valuable resources and services. Furthermore, we recognize the critical significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in professional environments. We are committed to helping our members understand and uphold these essential values.