New advisor leads the way for BSU

Posted May 24, 2024

Leaderson Kariuki

Cub Reporter

In the first week of March, Ghermanie Allen was appointed the Black Student Union (BSU) advisor at David Douglas High School.

The Black Student Union is a community club for students with roots of black descent and students of color. It is where students come together and connect as students. They plan events, attend day conferences and district events and have fun as an organization.

Freshman BSU member Evan Jasper described Allen as the perfect fit for such a program. “BSU is a safe space for students. A way for them to connect with other students as well as a place filled with fun; a judge-free zone and somewhere where you can get the resources you need,” Allen said, “In simple terms, The Black Student Union is what the students make it.”

Allen said she seeks to build upon the previous successes of her predecessor, Etema Banks. “I want to make sure I’m a solid support system, that students have the necessary resources needed to succeed in and out of school,” said Allen. “ I want to know that students are comfortable, safe and secure. I want to help them shape their bright futures.”

ASB President Melissa Kate described Banks as one who was able to create such strong impactful relations with all her students. Allen says that is the quality she would want to keep most from Banks. “I want to keep the connection she formed with the students, the traditions they upheld as a family and the resources she provided,” said Allen.

Allen foresees a future where the Black Student Union is able to reach more students and there are more resources that set students up for promising futures.

Allen was always involved in high school and college clubs and activities and immediately showed interest in The Black Student Union upon arrival at David Douglas High School. Ms Etema Banks also approached Ms Allen asking her to take over as Black Student Union Advisor since she was retiring. 

“All in all,” she said, “ It was my desire to see students progress themselves and succeed as they exploit their potential. So many, many students have so much potential but may just need the right guidance. I want to be part of their journey and to share in their struggles and happiness.”

Apart from being the Black Student Union Advisor, Allen is also the community/career college liaison advisor. Her work is to provide resources and be there for students and families while setting up students for their future.