GFU’s Black Student Union

Reported By: Kate Mack

Photo From: georgefox

George Fox University (GFU) is home to many different cultural clubs, and these clubs are a part of the Intercultural Resource Center (IRC). Black Student Union (BSU), specifically, has been hosting events and drawing in students throughout the past year. BSU President Marake Wondwossen first joined the club during her freshman year. Now a senior, she has led and helped contribute to the growth of BSU since her time here. 

Wondwossen, however, did not become officially involved in the leadership of the club until her sophomore year. Since then, she has been a pillar in the BSU community. With her help, this is the first time in four years that the BSU has had a full cabinet of leaders, and this year, it has continued to host events monthly with the help of the IRC. These events are open to any student who not only wants to get involved with BSU but also wants to experience cultures they may be unfamiliar with.

Wondwossen explained how BSU provides a community and an environment where students could truly be themselves, no matter their differences: “People say there are certain types of Black people, but we make sure to always incorporate everything and that every Black person is different, and that they don’t fit one stereotype so that people who do come can bring their authentic selves,” she said. BSU is open to anyone who wants to get involved, learn about a different culture, and meet some new people. 

Wondwossen said that the misinterpretation of BSU is that it is only for Black students, and that is not true. BSU is a club that welcomes anyone who wishes to get involved. Whether it’s going to an event hosted by BSU or going to one of the monthly meetings, anyone is welcome to join and bring a friend. Wondwossen explained that as president, she focuses on making sure that people feel included and welcomed at any event because the BSU team sees it as their responsibility to make sure that students who attend feel supported.  

Anyone wishing to get involved in BSU can reach out to Wondwossen or any of the other cabinet members. BSU also has an email list through which they send out announcements about events. They also have an Instagram page that includes information about contacting the cabinet members and events. 

BSU is run by students and is there to help support students. Wondwossen said that building community in a place like GFU is extremely important and BSU plays a key role in helping with that.