By Mia Romero | The Black Student Association, BSA, is an organization at Howard Payne University that aims to make every student on campus feel seen despite their race.
“We want students to know that there is a place for them to feel welcome, heard, seen, and appreciated as a student here,” Amaya Marshall, president of the BSA, said. “We want to educate the student body and be a resource for students while prioritizing inclusivity.”
Marshall said they are still a relatively new organization that is still growing.
“Many students think you have to be black to join, which is not true at all. We want the BSA to be as diverse as possible,” said Favors
The BSA recently held their own annual cultural showcase that celebrated black history and culture.
“There was a lot of involvement from various departments around campus for our recent event, The Black History Month Cultural Showcase,” said Marshall.
“This event brings the student body together to celebrate black history and culture,” said Jordan Favors, vice president of the BSA. “We had students recite poetry and Dr. Kimery and Dr. Kelley facilitated discussions related to mental health and stereotypes.”
Since joining the organization, both Marshall and Favors have made long lasting connections and have had the opportunity to learn new skill sets.
“I feel empowered to speak up and assert my thoughts and opinions which has enhanced my experience as a student here,” said Favors. “I have made many close friends in the BSA, including people that have now graduated. It’s really cool that we’ve been able to stay in touch despite them graduating and moving off, and I credit that to how real and vulnerable the BSA allows you to be.”
Marshall and Favors both hope to see the organization flourish in the coming years.
“It truly is a safe space for students here to come as they are and be accepted for just being themselves,” said Favors.