Students advocate for Black journalists’ achievements, establishing a new chapter on campus.
Written by Tyisha Blade
The launch of the Cleveland State Association of Black Journalists (CSUABJ) marks a pivotal moment for aspiring journalists at Cleveland State University (CSU). More than just a student organization, CSUABJ creates a vital space for Black students to cultivate their skills, build professional connections and amplify their voices in the media industry.
Committed to upholding the values of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) – diversity, integrity and excellence – the chapter also aligns itself with the leadership standards set by the Greater Cleveland Association of Black Journalists (GCLEABJ), pronounced G-Cle-ABJ. Through mentorship, advocacy and networking opportunities, CSUABJ empowers the next generation of journalists to shape the future of media with a community of support and growth.
Recognizing the need for a dedicated space for Black student journalists at CSU, I took the initiative to establish the CSUABJ chapter. As a graduate student, I wanted to not only create opportunities for other students, but also serve as a student adviser – demonstrating the path to success in the media industry.
The idea first took shape in a conversation with Rhonda Crowder, president of GCLEABJ, who embraced the vision. She connected me with Helen Maynard, GCLEABJ’s vice president of broadcast and managing editor at Signal Cleveland. Maynard’s guidance and support have been instrumental in navigating the process of securing official recognition for the chapter, ensuring that CSUABJ becomes a lasting resource for aspiring journalists.
At our fall 2024 interest meeting, we welcomed CSU students and supporters to Signal Cleveland, located at 3200 Euclid Ave., just steps from campus. The experience was nothing short of incredible. As we gathered, local Cleveland journalists worked alongside us, immersing themselves in the community and uncovering powerful stories. The energy in the room reflected a shared passion for storytelling, connection and the future of journalism.
Maynard generously ordered pizza and salad from the Rascal House location on CSU’s campus, and we had a productive discussion about the steps required to establish our student chapter.
After several meetings with interested students and valuable guidance from former CSU student media and web specialist, Dan Lenhart, it was time to hold elections. The election meeting took place in November, and CSUABJ members cast their votes via CSU’s student portal, VikesConnect.
Derek Williams Jr. was elected as president, Tammy Westmoreland as vice president, Eboni Dunn as treasurer and Brazil Jackson as secretary. Our chapter’s advisers were also established. Professors Edward Horowitz and Adrienne Gosselin graciously accepted the roles of CSU faculty advisers. Maynard and Monique Wingard, both members of GCLEABJ, supported us as professional member advisers. I took on the role of student adviser.
As the spring semester kicked off, CSUABJ began brainstorming ways to connect with and embrace the university community. We started by hosting a table during CSU’s Week of Welcome Student Organization Common Hour Showcase. Our table included a banner and foam board poster created by CSU’s printing services department, which incorporated our logo created by GCLEABJ chapter member, Wayne Dailey.
GCLEABJ also generously donated giveaway items such as lunch bags, notebooks, pens and canteens. Maynard covered the printing costs and contributed a tablecloth and candy giveaways. The fair was a great success, with CSUABJ officers managing the table and sharing information about our new student chapter.
Since its inception, CSUABJ has actively worked towards achieving national recognition from NABJ. This process involves meeting stringent criteria set forth by the national organization, including demonstrating commitment to promoting diversity in journalism, organizing impactful initiatives and fostering a supportive environment for its student members.
The journey towards national recognition highlights the dedication and enthusiasm of the student leaders and members who are passionate about advancing their careers and making a positive impact in the field of journalism.
Our CSUABJ chapter is also looking forward to the NABJ convention, which is hosted in Cleveland Aug. 6-10. For more information about the CSUABJ student chapter, visit our website. You can also visit the GCLEABJ professional chapter at gcleabj.org. For more information or to register for the NABJ convention, please visit nabj.org.