by Karen (Kali) Hernandez Fraire
Founded in 2018, the Black Student Organization (BSO) held its second annual Black formal on Saturday, March 8th, 2025, at Combs Warehouse. In an amazing collaboration among many clubs, including Brother to Brother, Sister to Sister, Afro Fusion, Pride in Black Art, and Afro Heritage Club, the Black Excellence Formal serves as a platform to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of all Black students, faculty and staff and Black culture at Centre. Following an elegant masquerade theme, the event featured a night of fun dancing, singing, and fashion competition in community.
“I felt liberated and connected by being surrounded by people who look like me and those who care about me and my community,” said student Jurianny Guerrero, ‘26
The highly anticipated winners of the Royal Court 2025 competition, voted on by attendees, included athletes Almona Almona ‘26 and Dayanara Mendez ‘26 for King and Queen, and Malaika Allen ‘27 and Tyler Frisby ‘28 as Princess and Prince. Best Dressed went to Justin Lewis ‘27 and Madjo Doumbia ‘25.
“Winning princess was a very heartwarming feeling,” said Princess winner Malaika Allen ‘27, “The people who celebrated me were what made that experience even more special. The community was able to be connected through dancing, conversations and just all around great vibes. The Black formal will be something I remember for years to come.”
The formal was promoted as a meaningful opportunity for the Black community and allies on campus to come together in celebration and mutual support, and it delivered that and more! Through fun formal events to meaningful serious conversations, such as their Red Table Talk, students continue to show their dedication to honor, strengthen, and sustain the legacy of Black students at Centre for the future generations to come.
Photo credits to Oliver Longenecker.