The victory of Barack Obama is not the only reason for Black United Students to celebrate this week.

Tonight, the 39th annual Renaissance Ball and Pageant will be the jump-start for a series of weekend-long events to commemorate the organization’s 40th anniversary.

Lotus Garden is this year’s theme. The pageant contest will be followed by a dance.

The event will begin at 8 p.m. in the Kent State Ballroom. Doors will open at 7 p.m. All students, faculty and alumni are welcome to the free event.

– Regina Garcia Cano