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.

A psychology major from Dover, Delaware, Toriana Giddens chose to attend the University of Delaware because of UD’s commitment to new and innovative ideas. While perusing the course catalog, she discovered Africana studies. 

“I didn’t know what to expect from my first class,” she said, “but the program has proven to be very enlightening.”

Here, Giddens shares more about her experience as a student and NCBS Honor Society member. 

What has been your favorite Africana studies course?  

My favorite Africana class was Contemporary African American Issues in Education taught by Professor Lavern Washington. 

What was the most surprising or interesting thing you learned? 

The average non-white school district receives about $2,000 less than the average white school district for every student enrolled. 

What’s something you wish more people knew? 

I wish more people knew how beneficial Africana studies can be to understanding the world in which we live.  

Why did you want to join the NCBS Honor Society?

I chose to join the NCBS Honor Society in hopes to make a meaningful impact with people who share similar goals and passions. 

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to take a gap year to work and volunteer before enrolling in graduate school.