![President Todd Pfannestiel poses with Jeremy Thurston chairperson Board of Trustees [left] and former chairperson Robert Brvenik [right] after accepting the university's institutional charter.](https://uticatangerine.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/unnamed.jpeg)
BOND is a multicultural organization open to males built on the principles of brotherhood, community service and scholarship. The first meeting of the semester was held on Wednesday, Oct. 23 with new president Xavier Moore at the helm.
Xavier Moore, a sophomore and vice president of the student government association, was asked to step into the role by Anthony Baird, vice president for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, after the club became an unrecognized organization because of the lack of participation after many students graduated in 2022.
According to SGA President Kathi Jabe, Moore was heavily involved in campus activities and was making an impact which led to the question of if he would take the role.
One of Moore’s main goals last year was to become recognized again and create a strong E-Board, but he had to make changes and sought guidance from sister organization WIND (Women in a New Direction). This collaboration gave him new ideas.
Some of BOND and WIND’s events included a bake sale and potluck dinner where campus organizations shared foods from their culture. That same month, in celebration of Women’s History Month, BOND members served women and the brothers had to dress up because we were representing different styles.
Savior Wah, a BOND E-Board member who oversees social media and brand management, said he liked the potluck event because it allowed more than one organization to come together and helped brand new ideas and mingle with other organizations.
“I learned the value of building and nurturing bonds within a community,” Wah said.
As the organization grew more events took place, such as February’s visit to the Underground Railroad in Auburn in recognition of Black History Month and to also understand the city of Utica.
BOND is trying to increase membership this semester and Moore said he is trying to plan different activities to attract students.
Moore said more members and participation will enhance the organization and help bring new ideas to the table.
“We need more organization to come together and gain,” Moore said. “When things are seemingly falling apart, they are actually falling into place.”
Meetings are held on Thursday nights at 6 p.m. in the DuRoss Dining Room in the Dining Commons.
