During Black History Month, the Black Student Union (BSU) hosted a series of events celebrating Black achievements and history. Among these was a presentation featuring Mr. Jason Beckwith, Senior Vice President of Human Resources for the Washington Nationals, a major league baseball team based in Washington, D.C.
Beckwith, an HBCU graduate from Bowie State University, highlighted the impact of education on his life. He emphasized the importance of maximizing the advantages of a quality education, urging students to take advantage of the quality of education afforded to them. Beckwith spoke about the challenges he faced as a minority in White spaces, narrating his experience working in Human Resources, which eventually led him to work with the Washington Nationals. Beckwith underscored the importance of persevering despite the challenges an individual may face and the unfair advantages awarded to others, which become apparent the more an individual advances.
“He likened unfair advantages to a 100-mile race, that sometimes people get a headstart; however, the privilege that others start with doesn’t hinder you from reaching your goal, an important lesson I will keep in mind,” BSU Vice president Lynn Njoku-Kuindja said.
Alongside him, Mr. Bruce Gardner, a recording studio owner, spoke about his journey in the music industry. He emphasized the importance of finding and following one’s passions and shared his experience in the music business, demonstrating a duality in creating music and running a business.
Both speakers talked about their experience as Black professionals raised in Montgomery County who found success in different fields and through different avenues. Their stories spotlighted Black achievements beyond commonly discussed historical figures and showcased to students numerous avenues for success through hard work.
“They both gave very inspirational speeches, highlighting the resilience and hard work that shaped their achievements,” BSU sponsor Mr. Troy Gardner said.
He also spoke about BSU’s broader mission during Black History Month.
“We strive to showcase different aspects of Black history, not just the traditional ones that everyone knows, but also those whose contributions remain overlooked, such as pioneers from NASA and the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion,” Gardner said.
Beyond guest speakers, BSU actively encourages student participation through presentations that allow members to explore and discuss meaningful aspects of Black history. Vice President Lynn Njakou-Kuindja reflected on her own experience as a presenter, recalling a significant moment from her freshman year.
“BSU held student presentations every week during Black History Month, and I participated by presenting a slideshow on Black hair,” Njakou-Kuindja said.
These presentations give students the platform to demonstrate different aspects of black history that are important to them.
“As a Black girl, this topic is deeply personal to me, especially considering the challenges of managing natural hair. I was grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with the club,” Njakou-Kuindja stated.
BSU shared Black history throughout February through student-led discussions and educational Instagram posts. The club planned to collaborate with other clubs for International Night in March.
