Community Connections: Celebrating Women of JCSU During Women’s History Month
In the spirit of Women’s History Month and Sisterhood Month, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with some incredible women of Johnson C. Smith University for a special…
In the spirit of Women’s History Month and Sisterhood Month, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with some incredible women of Johnson C. Smith University for a special edition of Community Connections. This conversation was powerful, inspiring, and deeply personal.
My alma mater, Johnson C. Smith University, was recently ranked #15 on Newsweek’s list of top colleges and universities for women. That alone speaks volumes about the environment JCSU continues to create, one where women are empowered to thrive, lead, and grow.
Smitty the Golden Bull shows off his muscles.
Not only did I have the opportunity to lead this conversation, but I’m also being honored at the upcoming Arch of Triumph Gala alongside three phenomenal JCSU graduates. To sit in that seat as both interviewer and honoree, while speaking with women who represent the excellence and legacy of JCSU, was truly surreal.
During this conversation, I was joined by trailblazers: Dr. Valerie Kinloch, the 15th President of JCSU and a proud alumna; Dr. Denisha Hendricks, Chief Operating Officer and Athletic Director; Dr. Tomisha Brock, the first female Band Director at JCSU; and Ms. Jaiden Isome, the reigning Miss JCSU. These women are not just holding titles, they are breaking barriers, opening doors, and redefining leadership on campus and beyond.
We talked about everything from what it means to be “the first,” to the power of representation, and how JCSU continues to pour into young Black women, preparing them for leadership in the real world. One thing was clear: sisterhood at an HBCU like JCSU is unmatched. It’s more than a college experience, it’s a lifelong bond.
We also took time to highlight the significance of the Arch of Triumph Gala. This isn’t just a celebration, it’s an investment. The funds raised go directly back into the university, supporting students, scholarships, campus resources, and the surrounding community. That’s what makes this moment even bigger, it’s about legacy and impact.
If you’ve never experienced the Arch of Triumph Gala, this is your sign. Come celebrate, support, and be part of something meaningful. Learn more and purchase tickets here https://www.jcsu.edu/founders-week/arch-triumph-gala
For me, this moment was a reminder that a large part of who I am today started right there on Beatties Ford Road.
Take a listen to the full interview below.
