Black History Month at Ashley Hall

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Ashley Hall Life3/3/25

Celebrating Leadership: The Black Student Union’s Impactful Black History Month at Ashley Hall

At Ashley Hall, the Black Student Union (BSU) led a powerful and thought-provoking Black History Month experience, demonstrating the impact of student leadership and the importance of amplifying diverse voices. Through strategic planning and a commitment to meaningful dialogue, the BSU curated a dynamic series of events, including two engaging speaker panels featuring accomplished Black professionals. These discussions gave students invaluable insights into perseverance and the power of representation. By spearheading these efforts, the BSU not only honored Black history and culture but also fostered an environment of learning, reflection, and empowerment within the school community.

As a student-driven affinity group, the BSU fosters dialogue and cultural awareness year-round. Their leadership in shaping this year’s Black History Month celebrations brought fresh perspectives to campus, offering students an opportunity to engage with real-world experiences of adversity and triumph.

On February 7, an impressive all-female panel was invited to speak to Upper School students, marking the first of two discussions. The speakers shared journeys of perseverance, leadership, and innovation, inspiring students to embrace resilience in the face of challenges. Their diverse backgrounds in education, research, technology, and advocacy offered valuable perspectives on navigating adversity and making meaningful contributions to their communities.

Dr. Tamara Butler, Executive Director of the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture, is a dedicated scholar and advocate for cultural preservation, blending her expertise in education and African American studies to uplift historical narratives. Ms. Michelle Simmons, Chief Academic Officer for Charleston County School District, has dedicated nearly three decades to shaping academic excellence and ensuring students receive the support they need to thrive. Ms. Courtney Waters, Executive Director of Teach For America SC and former Charleston County School Board Vice-Chair, continues her mission to transform South Carolina’s education system with urgency and equity in mind. Finally, Ms. Tanqueray Edwards, a leader in AI adoption and business innovation, shared her story of resilience and determination, illustrating the power of technology and strategic leadership in shaping the future. Together, these women exemplified strength, purpose, and the importance of empowering the next generation.

The second panel, held on February 20, featured another inspiring group of professionals who shared their experiences of success in their respective fields. Pars Edwards, a seasoned financial services professional with over two decades of experience, emphasized the importance of strategic financial planning and relationship-building in helping clients reach their goals. Ms. D’Anna Frasier, an educator and counselor, spoke about her journey from teaching to counseling, highlighting her passion for guiding students toward better decision-making and future success. A dedicated mother and active community member, she continues to balance her career with service. Mrs. Deronda Washington, who serves as the Senior Associate Director of Student Leadership and Fraternity and Sorority Life at the College of Charleston, shared her experiences mentoring and shaping student leaders and spoke about how she takes pride in helping students grow into their full potential. Similarly, Mrs. Shavon Harris, a senior leader in technical program management, discussed her extensive experience in software testing, process improvement, and IT services. As an advocate for STEM education, she actively supports robotics programs and serves as chapter president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Each panelist provided valuable insights into the impact of mentorship and making meaningful connections, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Beyond Black History Month, the BSU’s work continues year-round as they strive to promote awareness and inclusivity on campus. Through ongoing programming, discussions, and mentorship initiatives, they ensure that celebrating Black excellence and the conversation around belonging remains an integral part of the Ashley Hall experience. Their dedication to amplifying diverse voices and fostering an inclusive culture underscores the lasting impact of student-led advocacy and celebration.

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Ashley Hall is a K-12 independent school for girls, with a co-ed preschool, committed to a talented and diverse student population. We consider for admission students of any race, color, religion, and national or ethnic origin.