A Farewell Message
What started as an opportunity to write and create turned into a platform where Black excellence, resilience, and community could be celebrated in every space. This newsletter became more than words in an article; it became a space for real stories and voices to be honored and shared.
In this role, I had the honor of helping plan and attending two Black Alumni Scholarship galas, participating in the introduction of the Black Alumni Network, and helping to build bridges between alumni and current students. I saw that past, present, and future Black Scholars could stand in the same room and see themselves reflected in one another.
For me, Cal State University Long Beach has been a place of growth, challenge, discovery, and transformation. In 2022, I was a student searching for direction and I now leave as a Fall 2025 graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing, who understands the power of community. This campus taught me to embrace my challenges as opportunities for growth. It also taught me to celebrate the small and large victories, and to recognize that success comes from the support, guidance, and connections we build along our journey.
Being a part of the Black Scholars team has shaped my college experience in ways I never expected. It gave me a voice when I was still learning how to use it. It connected me to students, faculty, and staff who reminded me that you do not have to navigate your college journey alone. Through every feature, interview, and story I was able to experience firsthand how powerful it is when our community comes together to share experiences and celebrate our collective support and achievements. I am especially grateful to my mentor, Tracy Kelly, who leads outside of her role as the Black Scholars Program Coordinator. She guided me into leadership, encouraged me to find my voice, and taught me to lead with confidence, purpose, and authenticity.
I am truly excited to carry these lessons forward as I transition into a leadership role within the Black Alumni Network, continuing to uplift and support the next generation of Black Scholars.
