Teneill Childers, 2023-24 president of Black Student Alliance (BSA) and a junior majoring in industrial design, loves meeting new people. BSA’s annual series of welcome back events this week, titled “Welcome Black Week”, helped her to do just that.
“The most rewarding thing is really just seeing various people come together, and just building a community around Iowa State,” Childers said.
One of the primary goals of Welcome Black Week is to give both new and returning students an opportunity to form connections on campus.
“I definitely appreciate that, for Welcome Black Week, it’s just one of those places where you can come and be yourself,” Childers said. “Whoever you are, you are welcome.”
All are welcome to participate in the week of events, which began Monday with the organization’s spin on Jeopardy, dubbed Scholars of Color, which discussed different aspects of Black culture.
Other events include a goal-setting night, swimming at Furman Aquatics Center and a barbeque and game night at the Black Cultural Center on Friday.
Childers said she has met freshman, sophomores and seniors at Welcome Black Week events. In her leadership role, Childers enjoys connecting people who may be in different areas through shared aspects of their lives.
“Everywhere, people are meeting and learning facts about each other,” Childers said. “We got to goal set with those people, just to make sure that we keep up with one another during the school year and hold each other accountable.”
Childers said she appreciates the friendships she has made through Black Student Alliance thus far and developing relationships she can depend on while helping the organization grow on campus.
“Because in college, you need people to depend on,” Childers said. “And if you find a group, even if it’s not BSA, there are so many people that can impart greatness in your life.”
For students interested in joining Black Student Alliance, Childers says to come with an open heart and an open mind.
“If you’re a freshman, be ready to grow and flourish, because it’s gonna happen,” Childers added.
Black Student Alliance will meet on alternating Thursdays in 304 Howe Hall. To learn more about Black Student Alliance, visit their Instagram.
