The Black Student Union (BSU) was founded in 1967 and recognized by the Student Association in 1968. Primary concerns of the organization are to unite the Black university community, educate members and non-members on issues that affect the Black community, and preserve Black culture, dignity and self-awareness. The BSU is also involved in community outreach. In 1969, the BSU started a free breakfast program, “Breakfast to Children,” to provide breakfast to inner city children before school.

Since its founding, the goals of the BSU are preserving and perpetuating Black culture, dignity, and self-awareness, emphasizing the existence and the role of Black Students at the University at Buffalo, and increasing admission of Black Students into the University at Buffalo. Additionally the BSU hopes to educate members and non-members on issues that have previously and presently affect the Black community, increase the understanding of different cultures within the Black Community, and keep members informed on issues that affect African Americans.