As the new academic year begins, Black Student Union (BSU) is entering a new chapter of transformation and growth. Under new leadership, the organization has adopted a theme “Unity is Community.”

Last year, former club sponsor Frederick Nickens described the club as a sanctuary for black students seeking a voice. 

“BSU was designed to be a place where black students who never felt they had a voice could,” Nickens said.

This year, the club is undergoing significant changes with new sponsors Coach Ricky London and AP African American Studies teacher Latonya Battles at the helm.

“We’re no longer just an extracurricular club,” London said. “We’ve moved up to a co-curricular status. Now, we can do fundraisers, plan events like dances, and truly engage in the community.”

As part of BSU’s commitment to community engagement and service, each member is required to complete five service hours per semester.

“What we want people to understand is that we want to help our community as an organization, so people can see that we’re uplifting someone who’s down or even someone who’s up, so that person can help the next person,” London said.

Ms. Battles, another advisor of BSU, emphasized the importance of unity and commitment. Reflecting on the challenges of getting students to commit to leadership roles, she shared, 

“There is a mantra that I grew up with: ‘each one teaches one,” Battles said. “You have a responsibility to share and to change. So if we are to evolve as a culture, we’ve got to focus on unity.”

Both Battles and London believe that it is essential for BSU to have a strong foundation. They plan to start with the basics and work their way up to their ultimate goal.

“Just like with a plant you need to focus on the root,” London said. “And who’s the root, it’s you guys, our student body. We need to make sure this is a safe place.”

 In addition to service projects, BSU plans to host its annual showcase in February, giving Black students a platform to share their talents and celebrate their identity. 

“The showcase is a way for students to say, ‘I’m at this school. I’m good at this. Watch me,’” senior DW Wilson said. “And to find a community of people again who look like you and are like-minded.”

For students who may be interested in joining the club or taking on leadership roles, Wilson encourages active participation. 

“Consistency is key,” Wilson said. “And that goes for any organization you want to participate in, anything you want to do in your life. Let yourself be known. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. If you have an idea, bring it.”

With a renewed focus on service, community engagement, and fostering leadership, the Black Student Union is poised for a year of growth and impact. 

“I want to leave a legacy of decisiveness and a legacy of openness,” Wilson said.