This article is sponsored by Cricket Wireless.

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have long been a vital part of the Black community. They provide a space for students to not only receive a quality education, but also to celebrate and learn about Black history and culture. At HBCUs, community is key, and it is through mentorship and leadership that students are able to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on the world.

 We are highlighting HBCU students to give people in our network ” their flowers today. Together with Cricket, we’ll shine the spotlight on those who are motivating our youth and share stories to continue to fuel the drive of the HBCU community to create the next chapter of “Black History Now”.

One such student is Jelani Bryant, a Cricket Wireless Campus Ambassador and a junior at Delaware State University. Jelani is a leader on campus and involved in various clubs and organizations including the NAACP, FORCE Ministries and Mister Honors Association. He is also the Founder & Executive Director of his nonprofit Light the Spark,  a member of the Board of Trustees Student Circle and the past president and current treasurer of the Gamma Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

For Jelani, mentorship and community have been crucial parts of his college experience. He credits his success to the guidance and support of his mentor Dr. Tony Allen, the University’s President and his family.

 “I get inspired by my University’s President and my mentor Dr. Tony Allen. From my freshman year, he took me under his wing, guided me, and put me in the proper arenas to help me navigate the path I’m on. The only thing he ever asked that I do, is to turn around and pour into others. I feel like that is what I’m called to do and that’s what I will do, find ways to bless, motivate, help, and support others,” says Jelani.

Jelani’s story is just one example of the many inspiring students at HBCUs who are making a difference in their communities and beyond. They are not only making Black history, but they are also shaping the future.

As we celebrate Black History Month and honor the contributions of the past, let us also look to the future aspirations of our HBCU students. Jelani for example has big plans for his future, he plans to become an environmental lawyer, helping disenfranchised communities achieve environmental justice.