TU Black Student Union leaders celebrate what it means to be a part of the historical organization

By GRACE HOGGARTH '22 on April 25, 2024

“ BSU’s role is to foster a supportive environment that assists Black students in navigating challenges and shared experiences, promotes and celebrates cultural awareness and galvanizes and advocates for their community’s needs and concerns. ”

BSU is a Safe Space and Beacon of Progress

Towson University’s Black Student Union is a hub for intersectional thought, cultural collaboration and community. Established in February 1970, the BSU set the standard for many Black student-run organizations and is among several other organizations that received significant backing from the late Julius Chapman, first dean of minority affairs. It has long served as a safe space and beacon of progress for Black students at TU.

Keiwana Perryman, associate director for the Center for Student Diversity and adviser to the BSU, says, “BSU provides a sense of belonging and community and instills a sense of pride and identity among Black students, which is particularly important on a predominantly white campus. Towson’s student body is majority-minority; however, walking across campus, you don’t see that."

BSU from the Students Who Know It Best

Njideka Onyekwere

BSU President

"For me, BSU has been a safe space to be myself. It speaks volumes when there is an influx of strong, Black cultural leaders and organizations on campus, because it shows a message of where the future is headed. BSU has showed me so much, and I'm so grateful for the effort and the contributions that my board and I have made. I'm so excited to see where the future of BSU goes."

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Jordan Strickland

BSU Secretary 

"The Black Student Union has taught me the importance of solidarity amongst Black people. Me and my board would go to bat for not only the organization and our beliefs but for each other as well. We have and will continue to fight to make sure Black students at Towson always have a place on campus they can call home."

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Lauren Price

BSU Social Media

“From hosting fun and de-stressing events to being a support system to all, BSU is a great resource and outlet for students at Towson University, and is about empowering those who look like us. Since joining the BSU executive board, I have enhanced my time management skills, marketing skills and leadership skills. I love being a part of the BSU family, especially on the executive board.”

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Brittny Mensah

Marketing Director

"The BSU is important for campus and the community as it promotes cultural awareness and supports black students. Being a Marketing Director in the BSU at TU allows you to make a positive impact, empower peers, and improve campus inclusivity. Personally, being part of the BSU has helped me grow as a leader, understand social issues better, and feel more connected to my community."

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Anaya Womack

CoMMUNITY OUTREACH

"Being a leader at Towson's Black Student Union has been extremely eye opening for me. Black culture is beautiful and it has so many layers to it. I realized that as a black woman, it's impossible for me to be put into one category or box. Being able to share my thoughts and experiences with other people who can relate is extremely comforting. I see the impact I can make and how much I can learn from my peers and honestly that is what makes my role so special."