The Johnnies Blog
Breaking Barriers: A First-Generation College Student’s Story
My name is Teodita, pronounced “tea-oh-dye-tuh.” I once felt my name was a burden, as it often led to teasing from peers and teacher mispronunciations. However, my name embodies my identity. I am half Guatemalan and half Dominican, and both cultures have profoundly influenced who I am as a first-generation college student.
LGBTQIA+ Student Support: How St. John’s University Leads the Way
As an LGBTQIA+ student, choosing a college or university that truly supports and celebrates you can transform your experience. St. John’s University is committed to creating a campus where you feel safe, valued, and empowered. Here, you find a community that genuinely embraces diversity with a strong dedication to fostering personal growth and academic success.
In this blog, you explore the resources and initiatives at St. John’s that make it a leader in LGBTQIA+ support. Plus, you hear directly from students and faculty involved in making campus life inclusive and supportive.
Embracing Diversity and Inclusion: St. John’s Commitment
At St. John’s University, our dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion isn’t just a philosophical stance—it’s the beating heart of our institution. As a Catholic and Vincentian university, we are deeply rooted in the values of compassion, justice, and solidarity with the marginalized. For over a century and a half, we have upheld these principles, striving to create an environment where every member of our community feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to thrive.
Q&A with Candice D. Roberts, Ph.D.
Meet Candice D. Roberts, Ph.D., pronouns: they/them; Director, The LGBTQ+ Center; Associate Professor, Division of Mass Communication.
Antonio's Inspiring Path of Campus Involvement
At St. John’s University, students’ journeys are shaped by their academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and personal growth. One such student is Antonio Mosby, a lively and active junior earning a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Marketing. He is currently a Student Coordinator in the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), which focuses on cultivating inclusivity and cultural understanding on campus.
Fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in College: Student Q&A
At a time when promoting and embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion is crucial, Basmalla Hussein, a committed and passionate third-year Muslim student at St. John’s University, has taken charge of creating a positive impact. Drawing upon her high school experiences and a desire to contribute to a cause larger than herself, Basmalla shares her journey in this inspiring Q&A session.
Diversity: 5 Ways it Boosts Student Success
When embarking on your higher education journey, it’s crucial to think about what can help you succeed as a student. Choosing a campus that values diversity is one factor that can bring many benefits—not only in college but also in your future career.
My Grandfather, One-Quarter of the Greensboro Four
On February 1, 1960, four African American first-year students at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T) courageously took seats at a “White only” F.W. Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, NC. This seemingly small act of defiance in the South sparked similar protests for racial equality and civil disobedience across the United States.
Four Influential Black Alumni Who Make St. John’s Proud
Over the past 150+ years, St. John’s University has been part of the academic journey for many influential figures and pioneers.