Outstanding contributions of Black students, staff and faculty members were recognized at the Black Joy red carpet event at the end of Feb.

This event also celebrated Black identity, leadership, achievements and the Black experience at Cal State LA.

Public health major Kaylin Drake is the president of Black Student Union, part of the Halisi Steppers dance team and part of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. She received the Leadership Award.

“I’m being rewarded as a student who’s demonstrated Black excellence on campus,” she said. “Since my freshman year, I’ve been really involved as far as making a change within the Black community and expanding student participation when it comes to Black students.”

Dr. Libby Lewis, assistant professor in the Pan-African Studies department and sociology department, was thrilled to be at this event.

“I am being presented with an award and I’m just so happy because when are we ever recognized for our labor?” she said. “We do it because we’re passionate about what we do and we love what we do, but it’s usually thankless.”

Associate Dean of Students, Dr. Isis Stansberry, concluded the event with a speech.

“Don’t allow anybody to steal your joy, your peace, your space, your harmony and your soul,” she said. “Whatever you’re asked to do, keep your soul intact.”