Rattler women unified in a union on campus

Members of the FAMU Student Union after a general body meeting. 
Photo credit: Constance Smith 

There are a host of organizations that students can join at Florida A&M University (FAMU), such as the FAMU Women Student Union (WSU).

The FAMU WSU is an organization with a mission statement that reads “empowering the masses, one woman at a time.”

Imani Cooper, a junior biological systems engineering student, is the FAMU WSU founder and president who said that organization is centered on unifying the women that surround her.

“The FAMU Women Student Union strives to encourage and motivate all women to step out and achieve their goals and aspirations without limitations,” Cooper said.

The Women Student Union began on Florida State University’s campus in 1851from the original all girl’s school. However, on August 12, 2017 membership became open to all FAMU students.

The idea of having the FAMU WSU on campus was built on the foundation of separation between women on campus. However, regardless of race, religion, gender or background the FAMU WSU is open to everyone who wishes to join.

Cooper selected the executive board from women involved in different organizations established on campus. Some of the organizations include, but are not limited to FAMU Student Government Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., National Council of Negro Women, and Big Sister Little Sister mentoring program.

Denver Smith is a current executive board member who said that the organization is meant to promote the growth of unity among women and to build a bond that’s unbreakable.

“When you look around, you see all the male based organizations working together, and for the women it’s like we’re in a competition,” Smith said.

Debora Castor owner of Counleurs de Miel paints a picture in front
of the FAMU Student Union. | Photo credit: Constance Smith 

One of the most important goals of the FAMU WSU is to help enhance the knowledge of political issues. The FAMU WSU believes that political awareness on and off of FAMU’s campus is something that is necessary.

Leah Lunderman is the secretary of the FAMU WSU who said that the organization wants to change the

“We are trying to make an impact. Trying to change the culture,” Lunderman said.

The FAMU WSU has been involved in community service events, held political awakening sessions, adopted a street, invited inspirational guest speakers and even social media challenges to start off their first semester strong.

One of their most popular events is “Woman up Wednesday,” which is a photo challenge where the FAMU WSU encourages other women to take pictures of themselves in business attire and post them on their social media with the hashtag “Women up Wednesday.”

The FAMU WSU currently has 96 active members including the executive board.

Cooper said she is proud of how far she has gotten with what started out as just an idea and likes to think of the organization as the bridge that will soon bring all women based organizations together.

“I can’t wait to see what’s in store for this organization in the upcoming semesters,” Cooper said.