Clayton State reflects on Black History Month events

(February 27, 2024) - Another February has come and gone, and Black History Month 2024 is just nearly in the history books.

But as it does every year, Clayton State University made sure to provide its students with plenty of event opportunities to celebrate the esteemed month of cultural heritage and service – some of which included “My Black Is” Self-Reflections, a Black History Month Trivia Challenge, the City of Morrow’s Black History Month Celebration, and more.

Assistant Dean of Students Sarah Ray commended the university’s outreach to its student body as well as the diversity offered in the events, themselves.

“The variety of Black History Month opportunities offered at Clayton State University and the surrounding community speaks volumes to our values that every student can feel celebrated and acknowledged in many ways,” Ray said.

When discussing Black History Month 2025, as well as the university’s other months of celebration, Ray said her aspiration “is not just for next year, but every day moving forward,” further saying “it’s of value to create space for students to express themselves and build bridges in creating a unified campus community.”

Ray also expressed the importance in working alongside campus and community partners to create student opportunities to reflect on and honor both history and the past, all while celebrating the future.

“Clayton State University is situated in an area with deep cultural roots in the Atlanta Metropolitan area,” Ray said. “There’s an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to be active collaborative participants by tapping into those opportunities during months of inclusion with a wide range of celebration opportunities.”

Dr. Don Stansberry, Clayton State’s vice president of Student Affairs, also agreed with Ray that celebration in culture and history can and should be enjoyed and remembered all throughout the year among all Lakers.

“As we conclude recognizing the importance of Black History Month, it is a reminder that we should focus on education and empowerment every month of the year,” Stansberry said.