In an effort to support Black students at Southern Miss, the Cultural Integrity Association (C.I.A.) was founded in the spring of 2024 by students, T’kenzley Moore, Jamela Annoh, and D’Nya Haggard.
The trio recognized a vital need for an organization that could equip Black students with essential professional skills and networking opportunities. Their mission is to provide the tools and support needed for Black students to succeed in professional spaces and foster a sense of community. The current president of the organization is Brandon Jones.
C.I.A. is rooted in core values of professionalism, integrity, community building, and empowerment. The organization aims to establish a strong foundation on campus in the short term, with the long-term goal of ensuring that Black students are well-prepared for their careers.
“We want to help our members gain the skills they need and create opportunities for networking,” Jones said.
Open to all Black students, whether undergraduate or graduate, C.I.A. is dedicated to inclusivity.
“We will announce when applications are open for new members, but we encourage any interested students to reach out for more information,” Annoh explained.
This approach fosters a welcoming environment where students can connect and collaborate.
The association plans to host a variety of events centered on career development. Workshops on resume building, crafting professional emails, and other essential skills are on the agenda. Additionally, networking events will connect students with professionals in their fields.
“These events are crucial for helping students develop the skills that will benefit them throughout their careers,” Jones said.
Beyond professional development, C.I.A. is committed to community engagement. The organization plans to initiate community service efforts that will strengthen ties with the surrounding area, reinforcing the notion that giving back is an essential part of their mission.
Currently funded through member contributions and fundraising efforts, C.I.A. is looking to expand its resources as it grows. As they develop, they plan to seek additional support to enhance our activities throughout the campus. The founders envision a flourishing organization in five years, stating, “We believe C.I.A. will be a well-known and respected presence on campus, with a larger membership and even more resources to assist our students.”
Jones also stressed the importance of support from the student body.
“Students can help by attending our events, showing interest in our initiatives, and actively participating in the programs we offer,” he said.
Even non-members can play a significant role in strengthening the organization by engaging in its activities.
C.I.A. will measure its success through tracking student involvement, participation rates, and feedback on its initiatives. Their impact will be assessed by how effectively we help students achieve their professional goals.
The Cultural Integrity Association stands poised to make a meaningful impact on the university, empowering Black students as they navigate their educational and professional journeys. As Black students traverse their academic and professional paths, the Cultural Integrity Association is positioning itself to have a significant influence on the University.
C.I.A. enhances college experience for Black students
0
Donate to SM2
Your donation will support the student journalists of University of Southern Mississipi. Your contribution will allow us to purchase equipment and cover our annual website hosting costs.
More to Discover