At Topeka High School, the Black Student Union (BSU) stands as more than just a club; it’s a family, a safe space, and a movement built on pride, unity, and leadership. After facing challenges and low participation in the past, the organization is experiencing a powerful revival this year, driven by passionate student leaders who are determined to make a lasting difference within their school and the broader Topeka community.
BSU President Aiyanna Graham described the club as a place for students of all backgrounds to connect, grow, and be seen.
“BSU is a vital space at Topeka High School where every student is welcome to come together as a community and find their voice and be around their peers,” Graham said. “This is my second year in BSU and my first year as president. I wasn’t in a club before, and a lot of my friends were telling me I should join.”
When she first joined, BSU was struggling with low engagement and visibility. But through her leadership and the dedication of other officers, the club has made a huge comeback.
“We started with barely any members, but we have over 80 new faces this year!” Graham said. “This year, we are focusing on student engagement and community outreach. My best memory so far would be the club carnival, doing the pie in the face, and dancing was super fun! Truly, everyone is welcome. It’s a safe space.”
The club’s renewed energy is visible across the school. From organizing events that highlight Black culture to volunteering around the community, BSU has made its presence felt positively.
Treasurer Keimara Marshall joined the club this year and already feels the sense of belonging that BSU represents.
“BSU is a family that unites to share Black pride,” Marshall said. “This is my first year participating in BSU and being the treasurer for the club. I wanted to be a part of something that uplifts my community, which is what BSU does. I want to help expand the club and create new opportunities for those who will join and lead in the future. My favorite memory so far was the Homecoming Parade.”
Marshall’s words reflect the heart of what BSU aims to be: a place where students don’t just celebrate their culture but also grow as leaders who give back to others.
Vice President Darius Taylor has also played a big role in reshaping the club’s mission and outreach.
“I wanted it to be more appealing for people, and for people to be seen and heard,” Taylor said. “Our main mission is to connect with the community and try to put Topeka High BSU back on the map because it has struggled a lot in the past.”
That struggle, he explained, came from years when membership dropped, activities slowed, and the club lost some of its influence. But this year’s leadership team has been intentional about rebuilding that foundation.
“BSU is not only for Black people; we want to extend our hand to everyone,” Taylor added. “That’s a common misconception because if you’re white and want to join and empower the group, you’re always welcome. People think that we, as in BSU, don’t want others or don’t do much, but our main thing is volunteer work and fundraisers.”
That message of inclusion has been key to BSU’s comeback. The officers emphasize that anyone who supports the mission of unity, education, and empowerment is encouraged to participate.
Head sponsor Desiree Miller has been instrumental in helping students turn their ideas into action. She said this year’s focus is not only on growth but on meaningful impact beyond school walls.
“One of our goals this year is to really be a part of the community,” Miller said. “We’re doing a lot of volunteer work within and outside the district, and we really want people to learn how to lead by example, not just for themselves but for others as well.”
Under her guidance, BSU has partnered with local organizations, participated in community events, and inspired students to take pride in who they are while learning to serve others.
The club’s efforts are already being noticed. Whether it’s dancing in the Homecoming Parade, running the booth at the club carnival, or organizing fundraisers, BSU’s energy and passion are impossible to miss. Their message is simple: everyone has a place in the movement.
As the school year continues, BSU plans to host cultural events, expand volunteer opportunities, and continue building a strong legacy for the next generation of student leaders. Through resilience, teamwork, and pride, Topeka High’s Black Student Union is proving that it’s not just back, it’s better than ever.