Speech-language pathology graduate student and Black Student Union President Za’Nadia Young reflects on faith, perseverance and the enduring impact of Black history beyond the month of February.
Black History Month invites reflection — not only on more than a century of federal recognition of Black history, but on the generations of courage, perseverance and faith that continue to shape the present and future.
For Za’Nadia Young, a communication sciences and disorders major pursuing a master’s degree in speech-language pathology at Concordia University Wisconsin, Black history is not simply something to commemorate — it is something to carry forward.
“As I reflect on 100 years of federal recognition of Black history, I am reminded that meaningful change occurs when we rise to the occasion and anchor ourselves in faith,” Young said. “Whether drawn from historical accounts or the lived experiences of my own family, the path has not been easy or clear. Yet one truth remains: giving up was never an option.”
Her words echo a truth that resonates across Concordia’s campus — that perseverance, grounded in faith, shapes leaders prepared to serve with purpose.
A journey rooted in purpose
As a first-generation college student, Young views her academic journey as more than personal achievement. It is a continuation of legacy.
“Black history is not simply a narrative I study — it is a source of inspiration that pushes me further and drives me to contribute to the ongoing legacy of achievement,” she said. “My journey is not motivated by trends or title, but by purpose. I am driven by the long-term impact this work will have on my community and the generational wealth it will help cultivate.”
Her commitment reflects a calling that extends beyond the classroom and into communities where speech-language pathologists play a critical role in advocacy, access and empowerment.
Rising to the occasion
At Concordia, students are challenged academically and spiritually. For Young, that environment has been formative.
“My experience at Concordia has instilled in me the mindset to rise to every occasion, whether academically or spiritually,” she said. “The standard of excellence modeled daily has not only guided me through young adulthood but has also shaped how I carry myself and represent my culture and community.”
Young also serves as president of the Concordia Black Student Union, where she helps foster belonging, dialogue and celebration on campus.
“While navigating life as a minority can present unique challenges, I have embraced those challenges as opportunities to write my own story of perseverance and success — just as those before me have done,” she said.
More than a month
Black History Month provides a dedicated time for recognition, but its significance extends well beyond February.
“As we reflect on Black history, we are reminded that it is far more than a designated month,” Young said. “It is a movement, a lived experience, and most importantly, a legacy — one that continues to unfold through each of us.”
At Concordia, that legacy lives on through students like Young — scholars and leaders grounded in faith, committed to excellence and driven by purpose.
Black history is not only remembered at Concordia. It is lived, studied, celebrated and carried forward.
Upcoming free event for all
On Thursday, Feb. 26, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Terrace Room, Unidos: A Heritage Celebration will honor multicultural success. Attendees will enjoy dinner and an evening of fashion, poetry and global music highlighting the beauty and diversity of cultures.
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.