By Lindsey Luker
Published on February 13, 2008
Nothing could be more valuable to students than plenty of encouragement and a strong, positive attitude to get them through a tough semester. At PJC, there are plenty of clubs that offer many academic opportunities as well as support. One particular club is the African American Student Association.
“The purpose of the African American Student Association is to mainly spread awareness about things that are happening in African American society,” said Community Liaison, Kristina Farmer.
The PJC association is part of Region I (northwest) of the Florida African American Student Association. There are five regions in all.
According to faasaweb.org, FAASA was founded 1976 by six institutions committed to enhancing the lives of African American students. These institutions included: Florida A&M University, Florida Atlantic University, Hillsborough Community College, Indian River Community College, Palm Beach Community College and St. Petersburg Junior College.
“The organization serves as a network to develop programs that promote effective communication, unity, respect for African culture, and excellence in all endeavors,” the FAASA website stated.
Today, the association represents over 60,000 students throughout the state of Florida.
PJC members participate in activities for worthy causes such as the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K walk/run. Members are also involved in community service projects and strive to be positive role models for their peers.
Farmer said that the AASA is a group of positive individuals who realize they all share the same goal: to graduate from PJC.
“We lift each other up and support each other through everything,” she said.
Farmer estimates that the association has around 20-25 active members. The members get together and enjoy special activities such as beatnik-style poetry readings and the upcoming “Throw-back Party,” where members get to dress up in retro attire.
Becoming a part of the group is simple.
“To be a member the student must have at least a 2.0 GPA and fill out an application,” member Nelson Rembert said.
The application is to ensure that each student is informed of any upcoming events or projects whenever they are unable to attend the meetings. Students interested in joining the association should visit in Building 5, Room 509. Meetings are held every Tuesday at 1 p.m.
