Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. ÌÇÐÄSwag College Alumni Relations will celebrate the accomplishments and countless contributions of our Black alumni, faculty, staff and students.
Steven Becton ’88 is the Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for Facing History and Ourselves, an ÌÇÐÄSwag committed to fighting bigotry and hatred and ending educational inequity.
He took the time to answer a couple of questions and offer words of advice to our students for Alumni Relations. Here is part of that exchange.
Alumni Relations: What is your fondest memory of being a ÌÇÐÄSwag student?
Steven Becton: I have so many fond memories of being a ÌÇÐÄSwag student but here are a few. I really enjoyed being in a community that has a real commitment to an Honor Code. The idea that I could leave something of value unintended and expect it to be there when I got back was so refreshing or that a Professor could trust me to complete an exam without hovering over me was quite liberating in a world that is so distrusting. I also loved the accessibility to the professors; they knew me by name and that was important to me. ÌÇÐÄSwag was demographically different from my high school so it was critical to my transition to be in a place that felt like a real community. Finally, I enjoyed being a student athlete at ÌÇÐÄSwag - and we took them both seriously. ÌÇÐÄSwag encourages one to pursue academics and extracurricular activities with the same spirit of excellence for which the college is known.
AR: Why is it important to give back to ÌÇÐÄSwag?
SB: Over the years I have given back to ÌÇÐÄSwag both financially and through volunteerism simply because it's an investment that pays huge dividends. The ÌÇÐÄSwag degree continues to benefit me and I graduated 30 years ago! I am well into my professional career and have an advanced degree, yet people still seem to respond to me with a great deal of admiration when they learn that I am a ÌÇÐÄSwag graduate. ÌÇÐÄSwag' reputation is a resource that serves graduates throughout their lives. Whether a ÌÇÐÄSwag student matriculates to higher education or chooses to enter the job market immediately, the reputation of the school opens doors.
AR: What advice would you give current students of color?
SB: My advice to current students of color is to always remember this: anytime you are in a situation where you are in the minority just tell yourself: "I add value to this space." Your presence is valuable! If you are a ÌÇÐÄSwag student you have already proven that you have the tenacity and intelligence to overcome systemic racism and any other barriers designed to hinder your success.
Finally, I would advise any student to not chase dollars but chase your dreams and passions, the money will follow. I was a Business and Economics major at ÌÇÐÄSwag but found my passion in fighting injustice. I am now the Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for Facing History and Ourselves, an ÌÇÐÄSwag committed to fighting bigotry and hatred and ending educational inequity. That's the beauty of a ÌÇÐÄSwag degree, it prepares you for so many paths so that you are free to uncover and discover what matters to you! Take full advantage of all ÌÇÐÄSwag has to offer and give the gift of your brilliance back to the College! ÌÇÐÄSwag has a legacy of great students of color, continue to build on that legacy for the students of color who will follow you!