For many Black students stepping onto Gonzaga’s campus, the experience can be both exciting and daunting. It’s not just about encountering new faces but often the realization that few will reflect their own. Navigating this predominantly white space, many students ask themselves, “Where are all the Black students?” or “Where can I find a home away from home?” The Black Student Union (BSU) at Gonzaga is more than just a club; it’s a refuge, a place where Black students can truly feel at home. We’re a diverse group of 25-40 students from various backgrounds, and that diversity is our strength—it’s the beautiful tapestry that makes us whole.
Our mission extends beyond social connections. The BSU is dedicated to uplifting and empowering our members, creating spaces for cultural expression, and advocating for meaningful change. We organize cultural events, and panel discussions, and are working to create networking opportunities with alumni and professionals. By collaborating with other student organizations, we push for a more inclusive and understanding campus. Through our events and community service initiatives, we ensure that Black students feel seen, heard, and supported.
BSUs are vital at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) because they provide essential solidarity and cultural affirmation. Black students often face challenges such as racial microaggressions, lack of representation in leadership, and a lack of Black perspectives in the curriculum. BSUs address these challenges by giving students a collective voice and a safe space to be themselves. Solidarity within historically marginalized groups is crucial. It fosters a sense of belonging, strengthens resilience, and helps students navigate their experiences. By coming together, we build support networks that empower us to overcome obstacles and strive for success. Through unity, we celebrate our achievements, confront systemic issues, and advocate for equity and justice.
Despite the strong sense of community within the BSU, Black students at PWIs still face unique struggles. Many experience isolation, underrepresentation, and cultural displacement. The lack of diversity can create the “spotlight effect,” where Black students feel hyper-visible in predominantly white spaces yet invisible in terms of support. The pressure to succeed while representing an entire community can be overwhelming, leading to burnout. Yet, in the face of these challenges, the resilience of Black students is remarkable. The BSU offers a lifeline—a space where students can recharge, connect with peers who share their experiences, and find the strength to thrive academically and personally. We work not only to support our members but to challenge the broader campus community to be more inclusive, ensuring that Gonzaga is a place where all students can succeed.
Additionally, our BSU is committed to deepening our engagement with the Spokane community. We aim to connect with local organizations and foster partnerships that benefit both Gonzaga students and the broader Spokane area. By collaborating with community leaders and participating in local events, we strive to create positive change and strengthen our ties with the city. We are also proud to honor the memory of Sandy Williams, a beloved Spokane activist and community leader, through the Sandy Williams Scholarship. Each year, two students are awarded $500 in recognition of their contributions to the Black student community and their commitment to social justice. This scholarship serves as a financial resource and a tribute to Sandy’s enduring legacy of advocacy.
Our 2024-25 BSU officers are:
- President: Amari Troutt (Spokane, WA)
- Vice President: Kendall Scipio-Shepard (Seattle, WA)
- Secretary: Grant Barnes (Aurora, CO)
- Activities Coordinator: Kendall Featherstone (Austin, TX)
- Treasurer: Alastor Collins (Renton, WA)
- Dinner Chair: Yene Bereket (Mountain Lake Terrace, WA)
- Public Relations: Myles Sandy (Washington D.C.) and Kahlomo Cunningham (Aberdeen, WA)
- UACC Rep: TJ Aguma (St. Louis, MI)
Together, we strive to create a supportive and empowering community where Black students at Gonzaga can thrive, knowing they are not alone. We are their home away from home.