BSU Celebrates 5 Years of Community, Leadership, and Legacy

Five years ago, during a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, students at Chatham Hall came together alongside Mrs. Deborah Glymph, former Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, to create the Black Student Union. What began as a space for reflection, support, and connection has since become an important and lasting part of campus life.

Over the past five years, BSU has fostered belonging, celebrated culture, encouraged dialogue, and created meaningful opportunities for leadership and community. This year, students knew the organization’s fifth anniversary deserved a celebration that honored both its impact and the women who helped pave the way for future generations of Black students at Chatham Hall.

With the leadership of BSU sponsor Ms. Tiffany Gray-Williams, senior leaders Aniah G.C. ’26 and Chrisette J. ’26, and alumna Ms. Imani Brooks ’16, the group planned a joyful Reunion Weekend gathering filled with food, storytelling, music, laughter, and connection.

A special part of the celebration was honoring Ms. Gloria Bond Clunie ’71 and Ms. Venita Fields ’71, Chatham Hall’s first Black graduates. Their reflections on their experiences during the Civil Rights Movement offered students and guests a powerful reminder of both the progress that has been made and the importance of continuing to lead with courage and purpose.

Ms. Sonja Andrews ’89 also reflected on the significance of celebrating 55 years of Black students at Chatham Hall, while current student leaders shared how BSU has provided a safe, empowering, and affirming space throughout their own journeys.

The event concluded in the best possible way: with joy. Students, alumnae, faculty, staff, and guests gathered together for line dancing, celebrating generations of connection and community side by side.

As BSU celebrates five years, its impact continues to be seen not only in events and programming but in the relationships, leadership, and sense of belonging it creates every day. The legacy of these women, and the students continuing to shape BSU today, is one rooted in courage, community, and lasting change.