Faces of UAlbany: Students Celebrate Black History Month

Composite photo showing three portraits of UAlbany students - a man in a black hoodie, a woman in a white Nike sweater, and a woman in a bright pink sweater and pants.

ALBANY, N.Y. (Feb. 25, 2025) — Observed each February in the United States, Black History Month provides an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black Americans across society, culture and history.

UAlbany students recently shared their thoughts on the importance of celebrating Black history — not just this month, but every month. In their own words, they discuss the significance of this month and inspiring figures from the Black community who have had an influence on them, including music artists, writers, revolutionaries and human rights activists.

— Photos by Mario Sotomayor

Tiffany Stennett

A young woman with long black hair wears a bright pink sweater and bright pink pants and poses for a portrait on the UAlbany campus — English Major. Class of 2026. Fundraising Co-Chair of Jamaican Student Association.

"Black History Month is a crucial time to showcase the talents and highlight the achievements of our people. It's a time that demands recognition, as our accomplishments are often overshadowed. It's vital to acknowledge and appreciate everyone's contributions, no matter their race. There are many Black figures I admire, but my favorite is Malcom X. His significant role as a human rights activist and his contributions to the civil rights movement have been pivotal in our community's progress."

Robert Glover

A young man with short black hair wears a black hoodie and poses for a portrait on the UAlbany campus. — Informatics Major. Class of 2025. Public Relations Chair of Brother2Brother.

"Black History Month is about unity and understanding the trials, tribulations and traumas people of color face. This month, we not only recognize those challenges but also our culture. Our past is important, but it is more important to talk about the strides our culture is making now. It’s essential to recognize Black History Month because we should be showing love to our ancestors. They paved the way for us to have rights, freedom and opportunities we didn’t have before. It’s our way to say thanks, even though we should be thankful year-round. While there are so many people of color I look up to, Kendrick Lamar is my favorite. His music paints a vivid picture of Black culture."

Kamie Perez

A young woman with long black hair and glasses wears a white Nike sweater and poses for a portrait on the UAlbany campus. — Psychology and Human Development Major. Class of 2025. President of PULSE.

"Black History Month is a time to embrace our history and culture. Although we do this year-round, February allows us to embrace our culture louder and prouder. Black History Month is important to recognize because we still face many adversities. It is essential to raise awareness of these adversities and rise above them one day. Tiffany Jackson is one person of color I admire. Although her style of writing is intense, it keeps me engaged because she takes our story and makes it more authentic."