05/03/2022
The House of David Ministries, Inc. is proud to announce Shakyria Bailey is our most recent college graduate. Here are just a few of Shakyria’s accomplishments during the time she attended Western Illinois University.
Shakyria: I am a first-generation college graduate from a low-income family and I will be graduating in less then two weeks. These last four years have been an emotional roller coaster that has taught me the importance of perseverance and leadership.
During my time at Western, I was a member of the Black Student Association for four years, the final two of which I served as president.
For the past two years, I've worked as a Resident Assistant. With almost 30 ladies on my floor; forming a community. While working as a Multicultural Center Ambassador, I was able to contribute to the development of varied communities.
I joined The National Association of Colored Women's Club, Incorporated, where I learned the value of sisterhood and community service.
As a first-generation college student, I didn't have much guidance and had to accomplish a lot of things on my own. I'm grateful for my family and friends that helped me get through this difficult time.
For my leadership roles, I've received several accolades, and I'm glad to say that I've left a legacy at Western Illinois University. I've taken advantage of every chance to push my university to do more for black students.
They will rebuild our African American Studies department next fall as a result of these issues. (A department that was eliminated between 2016 and 2018) An Anti-Racism Taskforce and a Diversity Inclusion Office will be established. The institution has made it a point to ensure that diversity and inclusion are prioritized because I refused for them to continue to ignore black issues.
It hasn't been easy, but I'm looking forward to learning more about how this university plans to continue to improve the experience of black students.
On May 14, 2022, I will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Political Science with a Pre-Law specialization, whiling minoring in African American Studies.
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas”- Shirley Chisholm
Hair:Qash Doll
Make-Up:Diamond Bonds
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