My Historically Black Southern U

KAMRYN

“HBCUs are a community where we all can network with each other and share what we know.”

“HBCUs benefit from black people using them for a come up such as Ed Reed and Deion Sanders, who are both NFL hall of famers and helped black people.”

Black history is essential to America. It is a reminder of the hardships and trials our black ancestors faced and conquered.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have been implementing black history within their campuses as early as the 19th century. Quite frankly, HBCUs alone are a key example of black history.

History at the illustrious Southern University and A&M College goes deeper than anyone can imagine. In 1880, black history became a reality for those unable to receive fair educational treatment. With 12 students initially, SU was built exactly seventy-four years before segregation in schools was outlawed in 1954 when predominantly white schools would not admit black people..

The history embedded within our campus is represented in ways that often go unnoticed. Each building on the bluff is named after someone who profoundly impacted Southern.

For example, Boley residence hall is named after Ms. Alice Amira Boley, who was an instructor at SU and SU Lab’s Principal--totaling 42 years of service at SU before her passing (subr.edu).

Boley Hall houses closets filled with small notes left from past residents and students. In reality, those closets are aged, but the history and culture instilled in the writings allow wonders of what prior students were like. How did they impact Southern? Where are they now? What is their black history? Symbolism like this is what makes attending my HBCU a constant culture shock. Walking the campus alone gives a sense of empowerment due to the dedication of our alum, which lies in the very infrastructure of our institution.

According to Google, the definition of history is “the study of past events, particularly human affairs, and the whole series of past events connected with someone or something” However, black history, according to Google, has no direct definition.

Black history, unlike most things in the world, is the one thing our community can call our own. Historically Black Colleges and Universities will continue to stand as black historical monuments, enlightening and motivating those that want success to go out and get it. My name is Ashiriah Willams, and I am black history.

Digest: Rating Mayberry vs. Dunn

With a recent burger cookoff at Mayberry and Dunn Dining halls, a conversation of which dining hall reigned supreme came into question. The Digest sent undercover staffers to discuss the quality of cleanliness, hospitality, and of course, food, to test which eatery was superior. The results are as follows.

“ HBCUs are an example of black people benefiting off of other black people because, “it gives an environment for black people with like experiences to come together and those coming from the same background as one.”

Mayberry is closer to the main campus. Known for its famous Tony Burger, a lot of students come to Mayberry to eat, especially when it’s Red Bean Monday or Fish Friday. It has a great selection of food choices such as stir fry, fruits, veggies, ice cream, cake, and more. The cleanliness of the area is very reputable and with wonderful smells of Louisiana Cajun seasonings, who wouldn’t love eating at Mayberry? One big issue that has recently happened in Mayberry, however, is that they have been using different plates than last semester. The current plates students are using are not durable plastic ones, but rather easily breakable paper plates that one would have at a child’s birthday party. Dunn Hall doesn’t seem to have that problem.

Overall Score: 4.5 out of 5 Stars (Grade A)

Dunn Dining hall is much more spacious than Mayberry. There are a few different stations available at this location too, from a salad bar to a pizza station. Being located near the primary residence halls, Dunn is easily accessible to most students. Unlike Mayberry, Dunn is not known for a signature special day such as “Red Bean Monday.” Dunn has a delicious dessert section as well, but there’s no guarantee you’ll actually get one as they often run out quickly. Where Mayberry is more consistent in taste and quality, Dunn has its peaks and valleys throughout the week. However, the hospitality and atmosphere of Dunn are incomparable to Mayberry. The staff at Dunn Hall are very nice and great to talk to, something that Mayberry tends to lack.

Overall Score: 3.5 out of 5 Stars (Grade C+)

Overall Winner: Mayberry

When it comes down to the food, Mayberry takes the cake for this one. From their juicy hot burger and fries, or their delicious sweet selection, we would love to eat here every day. Overall, both dining halls are very attainable for students to eat at, but, from our standpoint, Mayberry is the favorable choice. Despite personal preferences, we are grateful for the tireless dedication of the staff at each dining hall.