Five leaders of Black student organizations share what celebrating their identities and history means to them.
Photo by Ryan S. Brandenberg
Black History Month means so much more than looking back on the past—it also means forging ahead towards a bright future and celebrating the achievements of the African diaspora in the present. We talked to five student leaders about what it means to be at the helm of a Black org during February—do you see your club president?
Akaya Byerstobin, Class of 2026
National Black Professional Health Association (NBPHA),
Health studies major
Barnett College of Public Health
“I love being able to represent and guide an organization where others can feel a sense of belonging. Being a leader in the NBPHA allows me to show Black pre-health students at Temple that they have a safe space where people who look like them are pursuing the same passions. It’s a place where they can learn, grow and build meaningful connections through an organization that celebrates both Black identity and a shared commitment to health.”
Kiamuya Musumunu, Class of 2026
Temple Hip Hop Club
Africology and African American studies and Media studies and production double major
College of Liberal Arts, Klein College of Media and Communication
“Being a Black leader of a student club at Temple means that I have the responsibility to create a safe and affirming space for all Black students—one where they feel involved, supported and empowered to fully be themselves. This role goes beyond organizing events; it’s about building a genuine community, uplifting Black voices and fostering a sense of belonging on campus. As a leader, I see Black History Month not just as a moment, but as a reminder of why these spaces matter year-round—to connect past struggles and achievements to present experiences and to inspire Black students to take pride in their identity and their future.”
Grace Umoren-Udo, Class of 2026
Organization of African Students
Finance and real estate double major
Fox School of Business
“My favorite part of leading a Black student organization on campus is collaborating with other Black student organizations. I feel that we really experience the richness of our culture by sharing it with others. Just this past week, we hosted a merging with the Student Organization for Caribbean Awareness called Beyond Borders. At this meeting we talked about experiences that we faced as African and Caribbean Americans. Ultimately, we learned how much we have in common. I love that I’m able to learn from other perspectives as it makes me a better college student.”
Jacqueline Hernandez, Class of 2026
Black Student Union
Nursing major
Barnett College of Public Health
“At the Black Student Union, our goal is building a community and creating an organization that fosters an inclusive environment for all Black individuals. We aim to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors feels a genuine sense of connection and belonging, recognizing the diversity within Black identities and experiences.
“Black History Month serves to acknowledge and honor the legacy of the ancestors who came before us. It gives us an opportunity to reflect on their sacrifices and accomplishments, recognizing how their efforts have shaped the social, cultural and political opportunities for Black communities at large.”
Mallorie Marsan, Class of 2026
Black Law Students Association
Pre-law political science and English double major
College of Liberal Arts
“Being first-generation and coming from a town severely lacking diversity, I have always known about the gaps in education based on race, gender and socioeconomics. Through this position, I’ve learned how students can help mend those gaps; but, without collective action from students, staff and administrators on every level, including social, educational and economic, we will not be able to address the root cause of racism in our spaces.
“It brings me great delight to celebrate the success and work of the Black diaspora during Black History Month. However, during this celebration, we should also remember why we are celebrating these milestones, not because we couldn’t do it before, but because we were systematically prevented from doing so."
