Editor’s Note: As headquarters for the National Council for Black Studies, the University of Delaware is leading a nationwide effort to expand the NCBS Honor Society to include university chapters. NCBS Executive Director and UD Professor Alicia Fontnette spearheaded this initiative with an inaugural cohort of 10 Blue Hen undergraduates. “As we continue to grow, I’m excited that UD will be pioneering many of the initiatives for chapters worldwide, from community service projects to research opportunities,” Fontnette said. 

Students were selected for their commitment to Africana studies, community service and academic rigor (all must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA). The following Q&A is part of a larger series spotlighting these charter members.

Caleb Beardsley grew up in a multiracial church. 

“So, when I entered college, I wanted to learn more about Black culture and history, which is when I took AFRA110 [Introduction to Africana Studies],” he said. “I haven’t looked back since.”

Here, the Newark native shares more about his experience as a student and NCBS Honor Society member.

Why did you choose UD?

It was pretty easy. My parents said they would help me get through college, but it would have to be UD. UD is a great school, so I saw no reason to not go.

What has been your favorite Africana studies course?  

Definitely AFRA205: Wages of Whiteness with Professor Brandon Stanford. It was fascinating to study the construction of whiteness as a social construct to be assimilated into and attained, and Dr. Stanford’s dynamic and passionate teaching style only furthered every student’s engagement. 

What’s something you wish more people knew? 

I wish people understood that Africana studies wasn’t just critical race theory, or Black history, but a lens through which to view the world, from its broadest generalities to its most granular of specifics.

Why did you want to join the NCBS Honor Society?

The suggestion was given to me by my professors, and I hardly wanted to pass up such a great opportunity to join the Africana studies community officially.

What are your plans after graduation?

I have been accepted into the Teach for America Corps, and will be teaching in Delaware for two years. As far as my dream job, I would love to be in a position and vocation to facilitate protests, social justice campaigns and community programming.