I don’t know about you, but January seemed to Zoom by for me. Now, as we dive into February, a month celebrating both Black history and love, I’m ready to kick things off with a dual challenge for each of you.

First challenge? Strive for excellence. In our pursuit of greatness, we pay homage to the melanated scholars who paved the way for equal educational rights. We’re standing on the shoulders of trailblazers like Mary McLeod Bethune, a total powerhouse from back in the day. Born in 1875, she was all about education, civil rights, and breaking barriers. Imagine her fighting for the freedom to learn and founding the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls in 1904 – the roots of Bethune-Cookman University. Now, that’s a legacy worth honoring. Let’s channel that energy into reaching new heights in our own educational journeys.

Seek help when needed. Whether it’s tackling a tricky assignment or needing some advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. You are building your future, so every assignment is a building block, and every class is a stepping stone.

Now, onto the second challenge, and this one may be harder than the first. Strive to be kind. Extend kindness not only to those close to you but to everyone who crosses your path. It gets easier to be kind when we suspend judgment. In the wise words of Ted Lasso, “Be curious, not judgmental.” Often, we think we objectively understand others, but in reality, our knowledge is limited. This month let’s make our forefathers proud. Be curious, ask questions instead of passing judgments, and choose kindness above all. Remember, you’re not only scholars but contributors to a culture of understanding and compassion. Choose to be kind. It has the power to transform our environment and uplift those around us.

Wishing you all an inspiring and fulfilling month of growth, curiosity, and kindness. Strive for excellence, stay focused, and embrace the spirit of love and learning.