When we talk about that which will sustain and nurture our spiritual growth as a people, we must once again talk about the importance of community. For one of the most vital ways we sustain ourselves is by building communities of resistance, places where we know we are not alone.”
– bell hooks, Teaching to Transgress
This work cannot be done alone. Community is central to developing spaces of belonging and resistance. First, we would like to thank all our members who served on the Black student planning committee between 2021-2023.
Cynthia Mackey Nayo Daniel Seanika Mathis
Malaysia Walton-Gaines Quintellea Grant-Carr Shana Taylor
Malika Spencer Robin Turner Taylor Fisher
Micah Andrews Sahanah Porter
While we acknowledge the many agencies that attended the event to support students later in the report, there were also many who worked behind the scenes Their contributions included financial support, promotion and marketing, and/or advocating for more events supporting racialized and marginalized communities.
African and African American Faculty and Staff Association (AAAFSA)
ASU Foundation team
Barrett Honors College
Black Graduate Student Association (BGSA)
Black Student Union (BSU; Downtown and West Campus)
Inclusive and Multicultural Association of Social Work Scholars (IMASWS)
Marketing & Communications team at Watts College
Multicultural Student Network (MSN)
The Office of Inclusive Design for Equity and Access (IDEA)
Watts College Center for Academic and Student Affairs (CASA)
Undergraduate Student Union (UGSU)
We celebrate this student, who shared she is also a first-generation student, a parent, and a future business owner
It started with an IDEA…
When I started as a scholar at the Office of Inclusive Design for Equity and Access (IDEA), housed within Watts College, I was challenged to think through a project that I wanted to lead. The project had to support the College’s efforts to advance antiracism and anti-oppressive practice, a charge our college prioritized after the murder of George Floyd.
My work has focused on elevating the diverse lived experiences of our resilient Black community in Arizona. Naturally, I felt compelled to focus this energy within our College as well given my own experience with navigating academia without community. As MSW alumni and now a doctoral
student at ASU, I have found it quite difficult to connect with Black students, staff, and faculty largely because there are few spaces where we can be and the underrepresentation of us makes it difficult to be seen. As you will see later in this report, the enrollment of white students far exceeds all categories of students who identify as ALAND (African, Latina/o/e, Asian, and Native American Diasporas). Not only are Black students underrepresented by the numbers, but there are also few opportunities for us to showcase and celebrate our works, offer support, and network.
During our first ever Black/ African/ African American staff and student mixer at Watts College
in Fall 2021, I proposed the IDEA of an event that addresses these gaps. Excited to receive such a warm response, I sought Black student input on the design of the event and recruited a small team to implement it –after all, events such as these are only successful with the support and inclusion of community Thus, Celebrating Black Brilliance was an event planned by Black students, that centered Blackness, but was an event that everyone could benefit from, regardless of racial/ethnic identity. We are hopeful, as we approach our third year of the event, in the continued reception and support from Watts College and the ASU Downtown campus.
- Cynthia Mackey
“Celebrating Black Brilliance means showing appreciation and honor to the various and numerous creativities from people stemming from a culture of Black descent and building a community where they feel safe to express themselves.”
–
NursingBlack Student Union representatives, (on left) Sahanah Porter and Adreja Wiggins (on right).
be labelled excellent.
Early in our development of this event, we took time to think about what we wanted to call this. Do we call it Black Excellence? This event was intended to celebrate Black joy, Black achievements, Black creativity, and Black solidarity in our continued pursuit for Black liberation. ‘Black excellence’ can promote these things but more often than not, we have seen it used to acknowledge the academic success of any one individual despite the insurmountable systemic barriers and statistics that devalue Black lives. Thus, in many ways, the term ”Black excellence” perpetuates harm by limiting “excellence” to those who defy the norm – only those who beat the odds can
Such connotations are not what we wish to showcase. We pivoted to ‘Black Brilliance’ to move away from this individualistic idea. Rather, we wished to spotlight all the amazing works occurring within and outside of academia. For this reason, we chose not to limit presentations to traditional academic publications, but make space for creative works and engagements in community. We sought to bring in community to highlight the works outside of academic settings and provide opportunities for students to connect and support those spaces (and vice versa). Students requested more
resources and supports as they navigate academic spaces, so this was essential each day of the 3-day event. Yet, despite all these opportunities, we felt it was also important to capture the realities of Black students and added barriers they encounter on top of the challenges of being a student. Given the current political context in Arizona, that seeks to erase or negate the lived experiences of racialized and minoritized students, we felt a survey was necessary to amplify their realities.
So, for us, Celebrating Black Brilliance was a way to shift from the limited portrayals of Blackness offered by “Black excellence” and celebrate the beauty of our resilient Black community in all its dimensions, not limited to traditional definitions of academic success. While we continue to reflect and adjust the event to meet the needs of community, we hope we are working towards this goal.
To be sure, we did ask students to share what celebrating Black brilliance meant to them and share their answers at the event.
‘What does ‘Celebrating Black Brilliance’ mean to you?’
‘What does ‘Celebrating Black Brilliance’ mean to you?’
This event would not have been possible without the dedication of Black students. Participation in this event planning provided opportunities for students to contribute their strengths, learn about event planning, and expand their networks. Many students on the committee were multifaceted, serving as leaders on student organizations, governing boards, coalitions, and more on top of their responsibilities as students. The following pages shares a little bit about each member, listed in alphabetical order by last name. Since this is our first report, we felt it necessary to identify the collective from both years of the event. Deepest gratitude for your enthusiasm and support towards this event!
Students, staff, and faculty engaging with presenters and tablers at Celebrating Black Brilliance.
My name is Micah Andrews. I am a sophomore undergraduate student at the College of Health Solutions I am majoring in Sports Science and Performance Programming with hopes of pursuing a coaching career in professional sports I am the Community Outreach Coordinator for the Black Student Union, a Barrett Peer Mentor, and student worker. I was inspired to join the planning committee after attending last year’s event The sight of so many successful black people networking in one space led me to join the movement, and it would bring me great joy if each person who attends the event walks away having learned or received helpful information!
Nayo Daniel is an Antiguan American, first-generation immigrant She is currently pursuing her Master's in Social Work and is involved with the Latinos Unidos student organization at ASU As an aspiring social worker, she hopes to learn more about the issues of incarceration, homelessness, and immigration and educate others on these social issues in a way that helps them strengthen their own communities. In her free time, Nayo enjoys cooking, painting, hiking, and learning how to salsa dance Nothing brings her joy more than listening to good R&B music and snacking on freshly baked chocolate chip cookies Nayo joined the 'Celebrating Black Brilliance Event' planning committee to connect with other black students and staff as well as create a supportive and uplifting space for students to showcase their experiences She hopes that everyone involved is able to learn something new and find a new person, organization, or local business to support moving forward
I am graduate student pursuing my Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, and Sustainable Engineering in the Ira A Fulton School of Engineering My research area is water treatment technology, using sustainable nanoparticles to remove microbial contamination in water In my free time I love making art, long-distance running, and reading. I am especially passionate about community outreach, specifically uplifting the black community I would not be where I am today without the support from black mentors and organizations I had throughout my schooling. Through my short time in Arizona, I have met some of the most inspiring Black people in my life but I've noticed that ASU and Arizona in general recognizes/uplifts many marginalized communities besides Black folk I wanted to be a part of something that gives Black students a space to celebrate themselves in a society full of tribulations, and foster a beautiful community both at ASU and the greater Phoenix area
Hey y’all! My name is Quintellea Grant-Carr I am currently working on my Masters in Social Work here at ASU. In the future I hope to become a Traveling Forensic Social Worker I wanted to get involved with this event so I can learn more about how I can help the community. I hope that others will be encouraged and inspired through this event What brings me joy is serving and inspiring others.
My name is Malika Laneece, I graduated in Spring 2022 with my Master of Arts in Criminal Justice here at ASU Online. I've been a part of many clubs but here at ASU - Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society, and President of the Black Student Union on the west campus. I'm passionate about addressing issues we face today in the correctional system and intimate partner crime I currently work in corrections as an Inmate Specialist where I'm responsible for a variety of duties that include assisting inmates with court scheduling, important documents, bonds and fines, and release options I decided to get involved in this event to recognize black educated women like myself working in law enforcement involved in helping the community. I think it is also important to discuss how utilizing reentry and rehabilitation programs for people in and out of the correctional system can ultimately help reduce crime along with enhancing the quality of life
Hello everyone! My name is Cindy and I’m a doctoral student with the School of Social Work. I’m also a senior scholar and project coordinator for the IDEA (Inclusive Design for Equity & Access) Office. In all that I do, I feel I am called to bring attention to racial/ethnic inequities (and their intersections). My personal experiences & the stories shared have reinforced the need to create a community where Black students feel valued, appreciated, and safe to just be This is why I was called to co-create this event It was also important that it was student-led to address the power hierarchies within this institution I am hopeful this will be a recurring event that works in partnership with Black community When I am not working on my dissertation or working to address anti-Blackness, I am focused on raising my two beautiful children (my joy).
Seanika is an undergraduate student in Watts college. She is the Vice President of Policy in USGD, the Director of Social Services in BLASTD, a Barrett Peer Mentor, and the Student Org Liaison for BSU Downtown Seanika is studying criminology and criminal justice with a minor in philosophy and hopes to continue her education in law school. She wanted to get involved in this event because she loves to uplift and connect with her fellow Black peers It brings her joy to meet new people and build friendships.
Hello! My name is Sahanah Porter and I am a current undergrad studying Medical Studies in College of Health Solutions. I am the President of the Black Student Union on the West Valley Campus In the near future I will be continuing my education in medical school, with a focus in anesthesiology. From there, I will become an anesthesiologist! I also plan to pursue research on the current and future racial disparities in the healthcare system. I decided to get involved with this event because I really see this event helping black students at ASU to continue growing mentally, physically, and emotionally I see this event helping those students step or continue to step into their full potential I hope for us to gain insight on different careers, skills, and mentalities to take and carry with us throughout our lives What brings me joy is to see the people around me happy, healthy, and prospering in their life.
I am on my last class to obtain my Graduate degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management at Watts College. With a request focus on inequalities in Black and Hispanic communities My passion is helping those who have difficulty helping themselves. I got involved with the planning committee because I love to help plan events and since I am an Arizona transplant I wanted to get involved in my community at school.
Robin is a wife to a Marine Corp officer and mom to two children ages 19 and 20. She has a BS in Psychology from University of Maryland Global Campus. She is currently a graduate student at Arizona State University in the Masters of Social Work program. She intends to use her degree to assist foster care youth who aged out and provide counseling, mentoring, and essential needs
I am a first-year undergraduate student studying Social Work in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions I am passionate about bringing awareness to important social causes and underrepresented groups and therefore hope to become a social worker, extending resources and support to a number of communities and individuals. I decided to get involved in this event because I believe it is crucial to appreciate and recognize Black talents and excellence, especially at our institution where we are definitely underrepresented In ASU's goal to diversify and celebrate the accomplishments of minority students, commemorating Black students on their talent and successes is definitely needed not only to spread awareness, but to uplift Black voices and well-being altogether.
(ASU-wide data)
In 2020, 9% Number of Black/African American students represented among ASU’s total student population (N = 128,815)
By comparison, 67% white students
23% Latina/o/e 13% Asian
Source: Lift Initiative Report, 2021
Celebrating Black Brilliance event planning committee member and student spotlight, Taylor Fisher, her creative brilliance.
1,167*
The number of students who identify as Black/African American enrolled at Watts College during 2022-23 academic year. This is down from the 1,320 Black/African American students enrolled the previous academic year.
Black students represented 8% of the total student population at Watts College (n=14,545) during the 202223 academic year. This is comparable to the previous academic year. By comparison, 2022-23 numbers for all racial/ethnic categories are below:
White 6,362*
Hispanic/Latino/a/e 4,462*
Asian 1,241*
Black/African Amer. 1,167*
Two or more races 580
Not available 422
Alaska N./Amer. Indian. 257*
Native Hawaiian/PI. 54*
*These figures do not include students who identity who chose more than one option (mixed race) nor students who chose not to disclose their ethnic identity. Thus, the numbers may be slightly underrepresented.
Black/African American students were primarily studying online during the 2022-23 academic year(although, slight decline compared to last year)
Online, 724 (↓ 74)
Downtown, 380 (↓ 75)
West, 45 (↓ 5)
Tucson, 13 (↑ 5)
Lake Havasu, 4 (no change)
Yuma, 1 (↓ 2)
Tempe, 0 (↓ 2)
Black/African American students enrolled in Criminal Justice courses more than others at Watts College 2022-23 2021-22
There have also been more Black/African American students enrolled in undergraduate programs than any other academic level at Watts College
While the Celebrating Black Brilliance event was largely about celebrating community in all it’s forms, we felt it was also important to provide students an opportunity to reflect on their experience at ASU. We created and shared a survey to undergrad, grad, and alumni. Students answered questions about demographic details, such as whether they were online students or studied in person, their education level, their program of study, school, college, racial/ethnic identity, gender
additional identities they felt were important to demonstrate the diversity among Black students. Some of these stats are presented on page 18. Of note is the range in which students identified racially/ethnically and by gender identity, emphasizing that Black is not a monolith.
Beginning on page 19, we highlight a sample of the responses to five core questions posed in the survey. We present the responses to each question by year.
1. What does the theme ‘Celebrating Black Brilliance’ mean to you? (shared on pages 7-8)
2. What motivated you to pursue your degree/certificate program at ASU? (p. 19-20)
3. Share your expectations related to ASU’s learning environment, course content, and/or preparations for your future endeavors. (p.21-22)
4. Share how these expectations have been met/unmet to date. (p. 23-24)
5. What can we do, as student advocates, to help make your experience at ASU more enriching & improve the experiences for future
Staff and faculty reviewing student survey feedback displayed at the event.
The need to help others.
I received my undergraduate degree here, and the support received from faculty & staff influenced my decision to pursue a master’s degree at ASU.
I've always been interested in the criminal justice system since I was a kid growing up in Los Angeles County allowed me to view crime in a different manner. I've lost family friends and associates to crime this master’s program has allow me to think of new ideas and be able to challenge myself in different ways. I've always been passionate for giving back to my community and helping others feel safe and whatever way I could contribute I specifically begin my life Forssmann career in corrections because it's just something I've been most passionate in along with crime scene investigations.
To effect changes in the manner policing is done and pioneer an African criminology.
My family is from Chicago. Parents both grew up in families affected by drugs & alcohol, poverty, and lack of education. They moved us to Arizona for better access and opportunities and supported me and my sisters in our goals so we could lead better lives. I chose my program because I want to be the person I and even my parents needed growing up. My passion in Social Work is youth mental health because keeping a healthy mind and learning healthy coping is essential for a healthy body and lifestyle.
I knew I wanted to play a significant role in the dissemination of knowledge to others just as my professors and teachers had done so for me!
During my undergrad at ASU I felt as though the education was diverse and inclusive and that BIPOC populations were represented well among the staff that I interacted with.
Convenience and location. My husband, his family, and my children were already established in Arizona. Since we planned to move eventually, and ASU has a policy that they don't hire newly graduated PhD students, it made sense to complete my degree here and move after I graduate.
ASU's online bachelor’s degrees are ranked among the highest in the nation; I wanted that level of excellence attached to my degree.
What
I came to ASU to do the work so I could do the work. My research and advocacy centers on bettering the lives of Black Gender and Sexually Diverse communities. Pursuing the three letters behind my name grants access to spaces I would not be invited to. Completing means that I not only deserve to be at the table, but that you should listen to what I have to say.
My motivation came from being a former incarcerated Juvenile Lifer-(MDOC) for over 29+ years. Upon returning back to society it was a part of my purpose to reinvest into community along with connect myself with a major University where I could become immersed in pedagogy. ASU has given my image the support and backing to share a innovative voice for re-imaging change; breaking down stigma's; and creating a more transparent narrative that reshapes policy, laws, and moral convictions.
I have always been passionate about making clothing, and the fashion program at ASU stuck out to me.
Transferred to ASU after leaving Columbia and Rutgers social work programs because ASU would accommodate an international field placement and the others would not.
I believed the social work program would be rigorous in its preparation of me as a clinician.
Reputation of academic excellence, affluence, resources, preparation for career achievement, and etc.
It had my major and was in-state which reduced costs for me.
I really wanted to go to Morehouse College but I received a full ride scholarship to ASU and I chose to pursue my degree here to be debt free after graduation.
I want to be Dr. (last name). I want that title to forever be tied to my family. I want this for my son, for my wife, and for younger self who never believed this was possible.
This is my return to college after attending Prairie View A&M University (2 semesters), University of Houston Downtown (1 semester), Texas Southern University (1 semester), Art Institute of Houston (4 years)2002- 2010. After $120,000 in student loan debt and years of self discovery, I began working at Starbucks which offered free tuition at ASU online, so it was a no brainer. My non profit is centered around providing resources and access to black queer homeless youth specifically trans youth. This assisted me in my decision to obtain a dual degree, go to law school (dual degree program), then become a lobbyist and philanthrope.
I have an associates degree from another college through dual enrollment, and ASU was one of the schools that took my credits. I have family in Phoenix, so it made sense for me. They also have a pretty good social sciences program on West campus.
What motivated me to pursue my degree program at ASU is that after completing my bachelors, I am going to obtain my doctorates as a Nurse Practitioner (NP) and ASU offer a program to where I can go from a bachelors to doctorate in 3 years.
I picked ASU Master of Social Work program for several reasons including location, the structure of the program and ability to choose a specific track, and the mission statement on diversity and inclusion.
Arizona State University has one of the top masters in social work programs in the country. As such it was the only answer for where I would pursue my education.
ASU's program seemed to offer the most variety of content and diversity of staff and peers compared to other higher education programs. Specifically, I really valued the School of Social Work's emphasis on inclusion and highlighting Native American and Latinx experiences because those are the populations we are most likely to engage with living in the Southwest.
My PI (boss) was instrumental in helping me understand the process and motivating me to push myself to grow both professionally and academically.
I wanted the highest quality online degree program available.
I wanted to be a better advocate and supporter of my community. To do that, I thought it would serve us well if I continued through higher education to learn the tools needed to get grant funding, become an evaluator on projects that serve my community, and to conduct research that means something to us.
I got my undergrad there, so I initially thought I would have the same quality experience and support.
I was motivated to pursue my degree at ASU because the school offered me the best scholarship. I've stayed because there are so many opportunities at ASU but there could always be more for black students.
There is hope to our community if they see a young Black man from hard times graduate on a college stage. It can give hope to some young person who thinks just cause of their circumstance or situation might stop them from doing something great but it'll show them its possible
A need for advocacy and to bring awareness to age disparities and inequities in people of color and being given that opportunity with autonomy.
I had expectations of less racism and homophobia, but that had not been my experience. I had expectations that ASU as a University would provide the training and skill building necessary to become an independent scholar. Thus far, that has not been the case. Those in my program have taught me an immense amount of the teaching and research. However, service, mentorship (outside of my department), and handling administrative violence coming from other places in the University has weakened my resolve regarding receiving certain educations from ASU.
ASU's learning environments do not put the ASU charter into action. There is a lack of representation of BIPOC scholars in the curriculum, curriculum delivery and culture at ASU. It appears Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, & Justice (DEIBJ) is a systemic and institutional checkbox and not a priority. The language in each school's mission statement supports my argument. The language is not written from a solution-focused approach and accountability lens. The language problematizes BIPOC communities instead of placing accountability on white people to dismantle the systems and institutions their ancestors created built on racism to uphold their supremacy.
I had expected the Learning environment to be more accommodating of those who did not attend ASU. In terms of course content, I wish to have more autonomy in the electives I take and the courses that may add to my academic journey.
(survey responses from Black students)
I had no expectation about ASU's learning environment.
I wished for a more obvious expression of diversity in the university setting, with ready access to communities with which I identify.
ASU, misses out on hiring Black Scholars who can impel academic pedagogy along with bring in more diversity for black students. ASU, unfortunately fails to retain Black Professors once hired which shows how the Dean's don't share in the vision for programs such as African AfricanAmerican Studies-(AAAS), and Justice Studies. ASU, also do not see those students such as myself who as a partner or faulty could critically connect with so many social spheres of life that can bring and deliver propound innovation.
A teacher refused to grade my work after acknowledging the antiBlackness of the academy after my learning disabilities were part of the reason why my work was late and not attached one time, the coursework is not engaging and does not force any students to be critical about whiteness and systems of oppression, the MSW online directors did not advocate for me after they said they would in a meeting with them.
I knew that Arizona was not as culturally diverse as the cities I grew up in, but I did not anticipate the degree of culture shock I would have to endure while completing my degree. Not only is it visibly clear of the absence of students of color, there are few spaces for students to connect with each other, there is not a hub to obtain all the information you need, my curriculum did not represent racialized communities, and conversations of race rarely came up. I felt invisible and silenced. Further, as a first generation student, I felt I was expected to 'figure things out' on my own.
Create a space that promotes mental health care and resources to build up the Black family.
I expected ASU's overall environment to be very diverse since diversity was represented to me as I was completing my enrollment application.
My expectations were for education and support for the diversity of the people in Arizona and beyond. Cultural awareness, competence, etc. starts with education and acknowledgement of racism and oppression in our system and institutions.
I expect to have employment once I graduate.
I expected ASU to care about its students.
I expected personal counseling outreach, especially once my successful academic performance became apparent.
Need to encourage all students to take a class about minority populations BIOPC classes to learn the history of this country.
I had no expectations honestly, though as I continue this journey a lot of questions are forming based on the lectures and assignments topics being antiquated or centering a certain America that not all students can relate to.
I wish that ASU had been more helpful in the process of attaining an internship.
I expected to have more black faces in academia. I expect the white professors to stop asking what black students will do to combat racism and equality and look inward and examine the policies of the university.
None. My expectations were very unrealistic from the jump as to what education could do for me personally and how a degree would serve me.
I expected ASU to have the answers I needed to be a better advocate and supporter of my community. I also expected ASU to support me along the way as I worked to achieve my career goals.
I thought the material would be actually diverse and emphasize southwestern native communities
What were your expectations about ASU…? (survey responses from Black students)
I believed there would be more structure to the Phd program. I also believed we would learn what I've come to understand as "hidden curriculum".
Expected more diversity in course content, more support with lgbt students, acceptance and accountability with how ASU handle marginalized students, and better listening when sharing concerns.
I had hoped for better networking and mentoring opportunities. ASU briefly had a mentoring site during the pandemic (mentorship.asu.edu), but this has since gone dormant.
I did expect for a very dynamic learning experience which I feel ASU provides, from choosing between in person, virtual, or icourses to having many elective choices. In the MSW program we are offered 3 major tracks with several other focuses along with options for additional certificates which allows us to take a curriculum that suits our career goals.
The only expectations I had/have related to ASU's learning environment is to have professors that are passionate about teaching their students the content, and who are involved with their students to the point where they do not just expect them to know the material (after all that is why we are in school)...to remember they were a student at one point. Haven’t
I appreciate that the School of Social Work offers in person, online, and virtual sync options. As someone who is working and going to school I don't always have the bandwidth to commute to in person sessions and having that flexibility is nice. I also appreciate the wide range of certificates offered by the school!
Advocate for better graduate student wages, more graduate scholarships for black Masters and PhD students, dental and vision insurance, and better mechanism to transitions graduate students into the workforce with better loan forgiveness education. I think it is a joke that the financial calculator on ASU's financial aid website says save and put some aside in case of emergency. That is the most fantastical thing to do when barely scrapping by on TA/RA wages plus loans.
Overall I think the way ASU has handled some cultural issues especially towards people of color haven't been great and they can do much better I know that programs are put in place to support multicultural people however it definitely needs more work as far as making Black History Month a bigger seeing in any other cultural aspects at ASU.
The social work curriculum that I have experienced thus far is very European centered and displays people of color negatively. Furthermore assignments drafted around exploring racism and oppression does not take into consideration nor addresses how students of color might be triggered by them. Social Work curriculum emphasis is on educating white people how to work with people of color but not all social work students are white.
Do some extensive research about who I am as a student. A quick Google search of my name will suffice. Next, let's personally meet up to see how my vision can actually be put into practice under my supervision.
I wish ASU had a way to identify Black-identifying students during the enrollment process, and shepherd us through the admissions processespecially those of us in the online space.
What can we do as student advocates to help make your experience at ASU more enriching & that of future generations? (survey responses from Black students)
Help to create a better network for afro students, help students advocate when they are clearly being let down by professors and it affects grade, push for abolishment of grades in social work schools as it should be based on experience and growth anyways
Making sure professors and faculty are practicing what they preach. ASU's mission statement is fine and dandy to look at, but change needs to start at the foundation.
Bring community
Emphasize cultural competency in professors
I didn't know who or where to take my concerns/co mplaints so making it easier to access assistance.
Hold more events such as these across campus, providing opportunities to connect and build networks.
Weed racist instructors who use their role within the system to uphold white supremacy out of the system and institutions of academia.
I would just like to build more connections with other Black students and staff/faculty that understand the experiences we might go through. If future/prospective Black students could see more of the Black population at ASU as well as different kinds of support offered for them, it would possibly encourage them to apply to ASU and hopefully connect with others.
Get more Black faculty and staff from outside of Arizona who have a sense of Black history, Black excellence and who are open to queer, immigrant, disabled, trans, socioeconomically vulnerable and/or first gen status. Create safe spaces that are actually safe with program coordinators and community standards. This university has a problem with confusing diversity for difference and for understating the historical exclusion of minorities that makes equity and inclusion so important.
Find a way to make our voices heard at ASU and listened to
I believe more active engagement with ‘mature’ students would be welcomed, as well as outreach by groups supporting Black students in the online environment.
Ensure a full understanding of the opportunity that is not afforded to everyone is somehow acknowledged. That's the first step in a successful college journey for minorities in my mind. Also, the process of scholarships and grants should be more accessible and beginner level friendly. Maybe the student advocates should at least share resources and connections with other like-minded students. I want us all to win.
I would like more representation or events organized for different racial/ethnic groups on campus including Black people. I would also like more university sanctioned groups for racial/ethnic minorities so they feel better supported while going to a PWI.
Continue reaching out and promote more Black excellence
Yes, be in liason with the Multiracial student club and reach out to Black students personally so they can get talking about their experiences
What can we do as student advocates to help make your experience at ASU more enriching & that of future generations?
(survey responses from Black students)
Advocate against racial barriers, institutional racism, show diversity in gender not just race, be accessible to student (first time hearing about student advocates -had to advocate alone)
More spaces and support systems are needed to acknowledge these disparities. System-level change is a must!
I hear of so many events going on at ASU way too late so I would just encourage everyone to advertise advertise advertise (!!!) things early so that fellow students actually know about all the great work that you are doing :)
I just feel we need more safe spaces for BIPOC students across campus. Many of the events for Black students in particular often take place at the Tempe campus which I often miss between distance and schedule conflicts.
For myself and future students, I believe that being able to get straight answers or student workers without attitudes when asking questions about financial aid and/or student businesses. As a nontraditional student it is very frustrating when you are constantly given the runaround especially when you know that some things are just a push of a button. Or, the rehearsed scripts that are given or said to everyone. Schooling is already stressful, just wish people could be more passionate about their jobs they apply for, and not just there for a paycheck.
Centralize resources. Make it easy to find student groups and their faculty contacts online. I had to bug the BGSA grad students and their faculty mentor for nearly 3 weeks before someone finally checked their emails. If these spaces were better monitored and available to students, they might be more active. Maybe think about integrating (and making them searchable) on ASU Slack Enterprise (https://asu.enterprise.slack.com /) or Instagram/TikTok/Discord?
I really enjoy the panels but it would be great to get Tempe and the other Black staff and professors involved. I remember attending AAAFSA meetings as staff and they were very active with programming and speaker series, but I don't see them getting involved with downtown too much.
Stop requesting Black students to do DEI work FOR FREE!!!! We need better and stronger vetting processes for dean of students. There are dean of students on the downtown campus that have no genuine care or compassion for Black student experiences.
Create a list of scholarships that schools send out to Black students. Many don't know that these things exist.
Hire more Black Staff!!!!!!!!
An important component of this event was to provide an opportunity for students to spotlight their work(s). This could be in the form of a publication, creative work (such as poetry, a play, performance, or other artistic works), projects taking place in the community of which they are affiliated, and/or to pitch an idea.
As we work to build a platform to showcase these works, we wanted to at least acknowledge the student and what the title of their work.
Ann Carver
Motivations & Trusted Sources Contributing to Early Adoption of Vaccines among Black Americans in Arizona
Antonio Espree Indomitable Spirit, Erasing the Intersecting Layers around Stigma & Stereotypes (PostIncarceration)
Cynthia Mackey
Jamal Brooks-Hawkins
Gamers at ASU unite!
What James Baldwin Would Say to Tucker Carlson: Libidinal Black Economies
Jeri Perkins BIPOC Student Network
Olivia Shaw
The De-Realization of Black Bodies in an Era of Mass Digital Surveillance: A TechnoCriminological Critique
Malika Leneece Reentry/ Rehabilitation Initiatives: Enhancing Quality of Life
Robin Turner
Sharing of the Kentanji Brown Jackson Quilt
Shana Taylor How Can Nonprofits Achieve Equality Through Program Funding?
Taylor Fisher Artist Meets Scientist: Creativity Inside and Outside of the Academy
Trey Jenkins Black Queer Theory Book Club
Valencia Clement Metaphor: Poetry in Unprecedented Times
Arianna Lynch Black Literature Book Club
Barbee Edwards A Day in the Life
Chris Joseph Beloved Son Spaces
Cynthia Mackey Gamers at ASU unite!
Joseph ‘Jae’ Early Adventures as a College Entrepreneur
Nina Jett That Black B, That Black is Me
Seanika Mathis & Translational Research on Autism and Policing
Abrielle Sanuth
Tanya Burgess Aging Journey Podcast: Playing Memories
Tiffany Shotwell “Stand Down, Corporal” – An Integrated Approach to Reducing Suicide Rates among American Military Veterans
Trey Jenkins Can Food Heal Social Wounds?
Another important component of this event was to spotlight the works of Black organizations and supporting ASU services. This connected students, staff, and faculty to local community initiatives, ensured students were aware of the resources available to them, and creating relationships that last beyond the life of the event.
We are grateful for the partnerships we have started with these amazing organizations, and highlight them here.
Advocacy Counter to Silence (ACTS) Initiative
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Arizona
Arizona Coalition for Change – the Unified Black African Descendants (UBAD) initiative
ASU Career & Professional Development
ASU Counseling Services
ASU Downtown Library
ASU Family Programs
ASU Educational Outreach & Student Services
ASU Financial Aid
ASU Library – Black Collections
ASU Pitchfork Pantry
ASU Sun Devil Fitness (Downtown)
ASU University Academic Success Programs
Black and Historical Trauma Healing (BAHTH) Project
Black Graduate Student Association (BGSA)
Black Lives Matter
Black Mothers Forum, Inc.
Black Student Union – West Campus
Center for Mindfulness, Compassion & Resilience
Esther Conort & Harold Mackey – special presentation providing tips & tricks related to presentation and job interview etiquette
Grassrootz Bookstore
Fernando Hernandez – Professional photography
Fresh Start Women’s Foundation
Help Enrich African American Lives (HEAAL) Coalition
Khalil Rashad – special presentation sharing his story about overcoming his wrongful conviction, finding his purpose, and his call to action to community
Radio Phoenix (KRDP 90.7FM)
Watts College, School of Public Affairs
ACASI – Arizona Child & Adolescent Survivor Initiative
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) Arizona
ASU Career & Professional Development
ASU College of Health Solutions
ASU Counseling Services
ASU Downtown Library
ASU Financial Aid
ASU Library – Black Collections
ASU Pitchfork Pantry
ASU Sun Devil Fitness (Downtown)
ASU University Academic Success Programs
Arizona Democracy Resource Center
Black Mothers Forum, Inc.
Black Student Union – Downtown & West Campus
Center for Mindfulness, Compassion & Resilience
Desert Soul Media (KRDP 90.7FM)
Grassrootz Bookstore
Fernando Hernandez – Professional photography
Fresh Start Women’s Foundation
Help Enrich African American Lives (HEAAL) Coalition
Impact Action Network Advocacy Consulting Agency
Maricopa County Air Quality Department
Million Dollar Teaching Project
Moms Demand Action
Multicultural Student Network
NAACP East Valley
Radio Phoenix
Seed Exchange of Central Arizona
Watts College, School of Public Affairs
Watts College, School of Social Work
Resources from Center of Mindfulness,
1
Students have continuously highlighted the need for more mentorship opportunities, financial support, safe spaces, and courses that reflect their interests.
2
Students have expressed concern about the lack of anti-racism and anti-oppressive practice in their classrooms, recommending more training for staff and students.
3
Students have expressed desire to see more Black representation among staff and faculty who are informed and willing to hold conversations related to the Black experience.
4
The event has grown since 2021-22 year, with more organizations interested in being involved in the opportunities to connect with students and promote the work they do in community.
5
Funding and reaching out to students sooner is needed to engage students in this event. It would be nice to pay students who join the planning committee to compensate for their time & labor.
6
More support from schools of Watts and Colleges across downtown campus would improve outreach and involvement from our community.
