The BSU

The purpose of the Black Student Union, BSU, is to promote activities of common interest, as well as cultural and educational benefits for the African American student body. Therefore the BSU will provide a forum for the students to voice their differences, goals, and ideas. The BSU also encourages cooperation between its member organizations and the African American student body.

Latoya Haywood, senior and BSU President, stated that, "Over the years the BSU has not had anything going on and this year we want to make sure the African Americans on campus know that they have someone to relate to and talk to."

Looking back at the history of African American students, during the late 1960's and early 1970's, the students were experiencing racism from all corners of every university. The only way that the Black students knew how to change their status was to hold protests and rallies that forced each campus to see how passionate they were about getting their respect. Now in the future the Black Student Union wants to leave behind by pictures that will tell a thousand words.

The BSU would like to hosts up and coming events that will help generate and establish itself here on the Menlo College campus. A few of the club activities will include "The Soul Food Dinner," which was a huge event last year. Tenea Golson, sophomore says, "There was a variety of food to choose from and it was also a new way to introduce different cultures into trying new types of food."

A geat event hosted by the BSU is "The Poetry Slam," which gives students and faculty a chance to show case their talents, and inspire other with words of wisdom. Senior Keith Daniel Brown stated the BSU gave me an opportunity to display my skills as I read a few poems that I personally wrote."

The BSU creates an atmosphere of unity here at Menlo College, and gives individuals a sense of pride in African American culture. The BSU also provides opportunities to develop strong leadership skills in the community.

Nicholas McCullar, junior Involvement Coordinator explains, "Our mission is to expand and expose students to African American culture, lifestyles and history through a variety of events and activities meant to attract students from all backgrounds."

Yasmin Lambie-Simpson, Dean Student Affairs, explains, "I'm really excited about the leadership potential and diversity that the Black Student Union has to offer to the Menlo campus. They are building on a rich heritage and activity schedule to continue awareness of the contributions to society of the African Americans people."