“The BSU Showcase was a success!” says Kezia Saul, the Secretary of Chatham’s Black Student Union. “A lot of people left entertained and, more importantly, informed about black culture and BSU as an organization.” As the leader of the committee for this incredible performance, Saul spent the first part of this semester working with Andrea Williams, Tasha Jordan and BSU advisor Dr. McGreevey to recruit and coordinate poets, singers and dancers from Chatham, neighboring universities and even Pittsburgh CAPA 6-12. “I thought of doing a Showcase because I thought that we cannot only display great African American talent in our campus communities, but we can also educate the masses in the process about the timeline of African American history.”
Now a junior, Saul transferred to Chatham for the smaller size, stunning campus and close community. Though the Biology major plans to go into healthcare after graduation and currently works as a pharmacy technician, but her involvement at Chatham goes beyond her field. She works as a R.I.S.E. mentor and volunteers for the Homeless Children’s Education Fund (HCEF). “We aim to bring awareness to the homeless children in Allegheny County,” she says. “We strive to bring education and stimulation to them in any way possible because we believe that homelessness should not impede education.”
Saul’s giving spirit carries over into her approach to BSU. “My work in BSU is extremely important to me, because it allows me to give a voice to the black students at Chatham. BSU is our vehicle to bring awareness of another culture that thrives on our beautiful campus.” The BSU Showcase did that successfully. “A lot of people left entertained and, more importantly, informed about black culture and BSU as an organization. All of the performers did an excellent job, and the behind-the-scenes people were also appreciated.” Now that the Showcase is over, Saul’s still got a lot of exciting plans. This spring, she’s got plenty of events in the works to keep people connected to BSU. “I love that I can put on events for the students and bring these girls together,” she says. “Most times, we leave meetings and events with new friends and/or having learned lessons that we can carry on with us in everyday life.”
Any students interested in joining BSU can attend a general body meeting. “We’ll never turn you away!” says Saul. Her philosophy reflects the spirit of unity on campus. “Mostly, I love the feeling of community that is at Chatham,” she says. “I come on campus, and I feel as though I am at my second home.”
If you’d like to connect with BSU, you can find their Facebook group here.