AFRICAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, N.E OHIO, USA
AFRICAN COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, N.E OHIO, USA
The African Community Association (ACA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1994 by a group of African Professors at Kent State University in Ohio. Created to support African students attending colleges in Ohio and at the same time connecting African professionals, ACA has grown into a vibrant community celebrating culture, advancing education, and building networks that make a lasting impact.
Vision:
To be a dynamic force of progress within the African diaspora, fostering leadership, academic achievement, cultural awareness, and strong community ties—whether our members return to Africa or make a home in the United States.
Mission:
I am honored to serve as President of the African Community Association (ACA), a forward-looking organization with a proud legacy in Northeast Ohio. For over two decades, ACA has stood as a beacon of unity, professionalism, and purpose—bringing together a diverse network of accomplished African professionals and engaging meaningfully with the broader community.
I am especially grateful to work alongside our Vice President, Dr. Owusu Danquah, as we continue striving for even greater impact. At the heart of ACA’s mission is a deep commitment to education, and as an educator, this is near and dear to my heart. Each year, we award partial scholarships to African students in Northeast Ohio—an investment in both individual potential and community uplift. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, every contribution to this initiative is tax-deductible and fuels our vision to grow the scholarship fund and broaden our reach.
We are actively expanding our donor and stakeholder network to ensure more students benefit from this important work. Equally central to our mission is the elevation of African voices and issues through educational programming. At last year’s gala, we were reminded of our shared responsibility to champion the next generation. With the continued support of area universities, nonprofit partners, and committed individuals like you, we are confident in our ability to rise to this call.
Our annual scholarship gala and dinner dance remains a signature event—celebrating African culture, community achievements, and the promise of tomorrow’s leaders. With a dynamic keynote speaker, vibrant programming, and meaningful connection among friends and supporters, this gathering is more than an occasion—it is a statement of who we are and what we believe in.
Thank you for your continued support of ACA. I look forward to building an even stronger future together – let’s stride into the future with confidence, and high hopes for our generations to come!
Nze Prince Charlie Muruako
President, ACA 2024-2026
The ACA Speakers Forum brings together thought leaders, activists, scholars, and artists to spark conversation, celebrate culture, and inspire collective action. Our forums are more than events—they are catalysts for change, grounded in African history and diasporic perspectives.
ACA’s journey is a story worth telling—filled with newsworthy milestones that reflect our community impact and legacy—from our founding in 1994 by visionary professors at Kent State University to our present-day scholarship awards, cultural celebrations, and community forums. This section highlights the “storied journey” of ACA—a legacy of service, progress, and empowerment that deserves the spotlight.
ACA’s scholarship program supports high-achieving African students pursuing higher education in the diaspora. We hope to do more in the future, but even this modest award goes a long way with our students. barriers to opportunity and rewarding academic excellence.
From cultural galas and film screenings to student showcases and heritage celebrations, ACA’s events are vibrant gatherings that build bridges across generations. Every event is a chance to connect, celebrate, and give back.
Whether you want to get involved, ask a question, or learn more about our programs, we welcome your message. ACA thrives on community, and your voice matters here.
P.O. Box 3433 Kent Ohio, 44240