Five Elon students share their experiences as Black-identifying students and reflect on influential figures in their lives.
Throughout February, the university community comes together to celebrate the history and impact of the Black community. Yet, for Black-identifying students at Elon, Black History Month holds a deeper significance. It serves as a time for reflection and an opportunity to honor those who have contributed so much to the Black community.
Black culture is inherently diverse. Elements such as fashion, technology, activism, art and music all contribute to the richness of the African diaspora. Black History Month acknowledges and honors this richness, celebrating individuals’ contributions to the community.
As members of a marginalized community at Elon, Black-identifying students also use this time to celebrate the sense of community they’ve built on campus and acknowledge the impact of available resources and spaces that support their growth and well-being.
To commemorate the month, Black-identifying students share their experiences at Elon and highlight the influential figures in their lives who have helped shape their values and perspectives.
Mae Curington ’25
My experience as a Black-identifying student at Elon has shaped my sense of identity. Coming from the South Side of Chicago and moving 12 hours away to a liberal arts college in the south was a culture shock. Seeing people who did not necessarily look like me or have a similar background as me made me question whether I belonged here or not. I struggled a lot for the first couple of semesters, finding community, identity, and belonging.
Elon, being a (predominantly white institution) can make it a bit difficult at times to feel seen or have your voice heard. I started off going to the CREDE toward the end of freshman year and from there on out, I found out about events and would try my best to make them. I am thankful for the CREDE and the community I have found in Elon. I feel more able/willing to be a vocal leader to many. Many upperclassmen have influenced me before me and have taken on a mentoring role. I have done things I never once thought I’d have the platform to do, such as facilitating discussions around topics such as misogynoir/intersectionality. Having the resources and community to back me up has made all the difference for my identity.
A black leader/mentor/historical figure that inspires me would have to be bell hooks. Hooks has so many inspirational things to say through her writing. One of the quotes that comes to mind is “What we do is more important than what we say we believe.” It’s imperative to me to be intentional about what I say and how I carry out my activism/allyship.
Mikayla Williams ’26
As a Black-identifying student at Elon, I had the opportunity to live on the African Diaspora LLC during my first year. This experience really helped me to gain a sense of community on campus as a first-year student. It allowed me to form relationships with other students with similar experiences.
Now, as a junior, I work in the CREDE, further creating a sense of community at Elon. I have the opportunity to create a welcoming space for underrepresented students across campus, which is really special to me because I get to see how these events and spaces are helping to shape the experiences of my peers during their time at Elon.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson inspires me because, as the first Black woman sworn in as a Supreme Court justice, she showcases resilience, determination and excellence in the face of adversity. Justice Jackson’s journey is a testament to the power of breaking barriers and pushing for progress, serving as a role model for future generations of Black women and people of color who aspire to make their mark in fields where they have historically been underrepresented. Her commitment to justice, fairness and integrity resonates deeply with me and continues to motivate my own pursuit of creating positive change in my community.
Jordan Smith ’25
As a Black student at Elon, my experience has reinforced the importance of community and intentional spaces that celebrate and uplift Black voices. Navigating a predominantly white institution has made me more aware of the significance of representation and cultural affirmation. It has also deepened my appreciation for spaces like the Center for Race, Ethnicity, and Diversity Education (CREDE) and Black student organizations, where I’ve found support, connection, and a sense of belonging.
This experience has shaped my identity by strengthening my confidence in who I am and my commitment to creating spaces where Black students feel seen and valued. Through these experiences, I’ve built meaningful relationships and a deeper understanding of what it means to create and sustain community.
A Black leader who has inspired me is Shirley Chisholm. As the first Black woman elected to Congress and the first to run for president under a major party, she embodied fearlessness, resilience and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her motto, “Unbought and Unbossed,” resonates with me because it speaks to the power of authenticity and refusing to conform to systems that seek to silence or limit us.
Chisholm’s legacy inspires me to lead with conviction, advocate for equity and create spaces where marginalized voices are heard. Her determination to break barriers reminds me that progress requires boldness, and her work continues to motivate me in everything I pursue.
Khairi Morrow ’25
Being a Black student on campus makes me continuously think about my skin color. I always have to be the best version, constantly advocating for Black rights, representation and equity. During freshman year, we had to rebuild our community, and since then, we have been working to make the Black community on campus more of a community.
On Elon’s campus, there are a few Black faculty/staff that have helped shape my experience. Mr. Marcus Elliott, the director of the Odyssey Program, has helped me get through the rough days. He knows where I grew up and my family situation, so his advice and the program’s sense of overall support have helped keep me grounded and have a home on this campus.
Mrs. Jo-Rae Jennings, the executive assistant to the provost and vice president of academic affairs, has been a great supervisor and mentor. She has helped and encouraged me to be a better leader, pushed me to chase my goals and has always been a listening ear.
Professor Keshia Gee has been a great professor and research mentor. She has mentored me on West African dance and history and helped me learn the ropes of the world.
Dr. Titch Madzima has also been a great professor and research mentor. I would not have believed I could have completed research without Professor Gee and Dr. Madzima’s support.
Ms. Marilyn Slade has been an Auntie to me on this campus. She brings a bright light into my world and always reminds me that life will continue and that there is always hope/light in the darkness.
There are a lot of other Black faculty and staff who I look up to and who have supported me throughout my undergraduate experience. I truly would not be where I am today without them.
Adriana Clarke ’27
Being a Black-identifying student at Elon has been a journey of self-discovery and growth. In many ways, it has strengthened my sense of identity and purpose. Working in CREDE and leading initiatives like the Black Student Success Team has allowed me to foster a sense of community, not only for myself but for others who share similar experiences.
At times, I’ve felt the weight of being in predominantly white spaces, but it has also made me more determined to carve out spaces where I feel seen, heard and valued. I’ve learned that community isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the bonds we create, the support we offer each other and the impact we make.
The most influential mentor in my life is my mother. As a Jamaican immigrant and single mother, she has shown me what resilience, determination, and self-sacrifice look like. She came to this country seeking better opportunities, not just for herself
but for me, and she has worked tirelessly to ensure that I have the chances she never did. Watching her navigate challenges, push through adversity, and never back down from her goals has shaped the way I approach my own life. Her sacrifices fuel my ambition, and her wisdom reminds me to keep going, even when things feel impossible.
My mother has always emphasized the importance of education, independence and self-worth. Despite the struggles she faced, she never let obstacles define her or limit what she believed was possible for our future. She taught me that my success is not just my own—it’s a reflection of her hard work, the sacrifices of my ancestors and the responsibility I have to uplift others. She embodies the very spirit of Black History Month—resilience, strength and an unwavering commitment to the next generation. More than anyone, she has shown me that I am capable, that I belong, and that my dreams are worth fighting for.