The Black Student Union organized several events throughout February to celebrate Black History Month, consisting of a student-planned and led assembly Thursday, Feb. 12 in the Schottenstein Theater, spirit week from Feb. 23 to Feb. 27 and lunch Feb. 27.
The themes for the spirit week were Pan-African Day, Go Bexley Day, HBCU and College Pride Day, Jersey Day and Blackout Day.
At the beginning of the Feb. 12 assembly, the Vocal Ensemble and Sinfonia Orchestra performed the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
Students heard from a panel consisting of State Representative Dontavius Jarrells, Athletic Coordinator Carleton McGrady, Executive Director of the Bexley Area Chamber of Commerce Bryan Drewry, Instructional Development Specialist Eva George and State Senator Hearcel Craig.
The panelists responded to a series of questions presented by students in BSU regarding the importance of community support and diversity and their experiences as African Americans and leaders.
BSU adviser and social studies teacher Dianne Day said the annual assembly is important because it allows students of color to feel represented in a predominantly white community.
She added she wants students to be exposed to impactful community leaders who don’t receive sufficient recognition.
Leader of School Community Engagement Stephen Lewis said one goal of the assembly is for students of all backgrounds to feel represented.
“What I’m hopeful that students take from this is an understanding that we all have value,” he said. “We want all of our students to flourish.”
Sophomore and BSU member Michelle Shanks said club members helped decide who to include on the panel.
She added the assembly was an opportunity to highlight Black leaders in Bexley and promote community.
“I think it’s very important for us all to be united with something,” Shanks said. “Just being able to agree and have a moment of celebration rather than a moment of hate.”
Published and digitized March 2026.
