Black Student Union celebrating Black History Month with new event​

Although Black History Month is celebrated in February, members of the Black Student Union hope their upcoming event can have an impact all year.

The first-ever “A Journey to Black Excellence” gala at Purdue University Fort Wayne will be held on Feb. 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Walb Student Union Classic Ballroom. Highlights include jazz music, guest speakers, and catered soul food. Formal attire is requested. Tickets cost $5 and are on sale each of the next two Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the skybridge between Helmke Library and Walb. 

“This is important because we want to encourage our classmates and friends to become excellent leaders and feel confident in their Black excellence,” said Makenzie Dabbs, president of the Black Student Union. “It is Black History Month, but we want to encourage people to be aware of their Black excellence all year long.”

Led by Dabbs and Vice President A.J. Jacobs, a committee of 10 Black Student Union members has been working on the event since October.

The six speakers are mostly university employees, including Chief Diversity Officer MarTeze Hammonds, The Women’s Center Program Assistant Cicelle Beemon, Director of Online and Credit Programs Dawn Moore, The Multicultural Center Program Assistant Paula Ashe, and Assistant Director of Admissions Ryan Meriwether, along with Indianapolis business owner Tamise Cross.

“I want to highlight what does excellence mean in a daily sense,” Ashe said. “That’s a pretty high aspiration, which is fine, but I want them to be themselves, to explore the bridge between excellence and authenticity and being who you are.”

Meriwether and Beemon are alumni who now work for PFW and understand their standing as role models.

“I want to talk about the importance of Black culture and excellence in a society where, unfortunately, we are seen as lesser in most parts,” Meriwether said. “I want to use myself as an example of how I was able to make it, even through all the trials and tribulations I faced. I really just want to be a person that other young minorities can come to when they need any help or guidance.”

A Fort Wayne native with a varied academic and business background, Moore said she will speak on, “Why does your effective leadership matter in the space YOU occupy? Great leaders leave space for others to talk, decide, and lead. You influence those around you by your mere presence,” she said.

As with any Black Student Union event, any PFW students, staff, and faculty are welcome to attend.