Mr., Ms. Black UK transition to new leadership role
October 17, 2015
By Monica Sanders
Mariah Caise, a nursing freshman, and Bishlam Pea, a human health science senior, were crowned Mr. and Ms. Black UK 2015 on Sept. 30.
Mr. and Ms. Black UK is organized by the Black Student Union, a cultural organization for minority students on campus. The group plans events, holds discussions, and does community service.
The pageant started in the 1980s to celebrate the black community. Contestants practice for three to four weeks before the event, where they are judged by a panel of people from on and off campus including Clark Davis, a UK student who was crowned Miss Kentucky 2015.
“Everyone is unique and beautiful in their own way,” Caise said. “Winning this title gave me more confidence to be an inspiration to other people.”
Caise reassured future leaders to be themselves and never be scared to put themselves out there.
“Being a student leader means being responsible, presenting myself in a positive light, and making safe decisions,” Caise said. “Don’t waste your time, pursue your aspirations and stay away from the drama.”
This is both Pea and Caises’ first year in Black Student Union. Winning the title brought them together.
“Bishlam is a good friend, he gives me rides home,” Caise said.
Pea said the title of Mr. Black UK puts him in an interesting leadership role.
“To be a student leader means I am held to a higher standard, I may not have to do my work in class, but outside of class my demeanor has to reflect to the community in a positive way,” Pea said. “To those aspiring leaders, keep being goal-oriented and keep pushing towards positive things.”
Jeremiah Pickett, president of Black Student Union, encouraged all minority students to be a part of the organization.
“It is a good way for minority students to come together and make friends, we have a lot of freshmen and BSU serves as a family away from your family,” Pickett said.
According to Pickett, students must attend at least five public meetings to be a part of the Black Student Union. Students who are interested can follow the organization on social media for updates.
