Students Collegiate100 Members

Students Serve on Board of Prestigious "Collegiate 100" for ASU's Chapter 

By Kenneth Mullinax/ASU 

Four students at Alabama State University have been selected to serve on the board of "The Collegiate 100's" chapter at the University, which is a campus-based student organization whose goal is to support the development of the social, emotional and educational needs of college youth. The chapter is sponsored by the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., and is drawn primarily from African–American male and female college students through chapters on university campuses across America. The primary purpose of the program is to provide an avenue for 100 Black Men of America, Inc., chapters to continue their one-on-one and group mentoring of students as they matriculate from high school to college and on to various lifetime initiatives. 

The members selected and who serve on the chapter at ASU include chapter president, DaVonte' Watson, a senior Communications-Public Relations major; Lawrence Omodele, a junior majoring in Computer Information Systems; Laquann Wilson, a junior Political Science major; and Katelyn Williams, a sophomore majoring in Business Management. 

Watson, a native of Birmingham, Ala., believes that the Collegiate 100 is highly significant because the organization represents a nexus of mentorship, leadership, and community involvement for student members.

"Engaging with like-minded individuals who are fervently committed to ushering positive change not only uplifts my spirit, but also reinforces my belief in the power of collective action," Watson stated. "Through the Collegiate 100, I have been blessed with opportunities to mentor younger students, grow my own leadership skills, and contribute to initiatives that truly make a difference in our community. Each interaction, each story, and each project colors my college life with hues of purpose and determination.” 

Watson feels that the organization is good for Alabama State University because it adds a rich layer of student engagement and community involvement, which can contribute to a student's success both while at school and especially upon graduation. 

"The organization's focus on mentorship and leadership development augments the University's mission to nurture future leaders. Moreover, it paints the campus with vibrant strokes of unity, purpose, and a shared commitment to societal betterment. When students of ASU engage in community projects, mentorship programs, and leadership workshops through the Collegiate 100, it reflects the broader values and aspirations of the University, showcasing its dedication to holistic student development and community upliftment," said Watson. 

STUDENT MEMBERS LAUD THE ORGANIZATION’S POSITIVE IMPACT

Wilson believes the organization has enhanced his career goals.

"Collegiate 100 has contributed to my career goal of becoming an attorney through its partnership with Drake University's School of Law, where I can attend law school for free if specific requirements are met...and Collegiate 100 has advanced my career through the network of individuals that I have met while being a part of the organization." 

Williams feels that Collegiate 100 is important to her because it not only has pushed her to be better individually, but the organization also has taught her that the success of the group can be as important as individual success. 

"This program is good for the students at Alabama State because of the way it contributes to a student's personal success and for their career success. The pillars that it stands on teaches students to understand the importance of things such as economic development, health and wellness," Williams said. "Even though I am only in my second year of undergrad, I have already learned so many things...such as how time management is among the most important things to master while being a working college student and that you have to be eager and work hard to get the things you want in life because they won't just fall into your lap." 

News media contact: Kenneth Mullinax, 334-229-4104.  

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