Who we are

At BSEA, we believe that every African American student deserves a thriving community and the resources to succeed, especially within predominantly white institutions (PWIs). Founded by two passionate individuals who have navigated the unique challenges faced by Black students, our organization is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where cultural identity is celebrated and leadership is nurtured.

Our mission is clear: to create a supportive and empowering community for Black students at PWIs. We recognize that the journey through higher education can be daunting, often marked by feelings of isolation and the struggle for representation. Through our initiatives, we aim to dismantle these barriers by promoting cultural awareness and advocating for equity and inclusion.

We host a variety of student-led meetings, activities, and events designed to empower our members and provide them with the tools they need for academic, social, and professional growth. Whether through mentorship programs, networking opportunities, or cultural celebrations, we strive to uplift and inspire the next generation of African American leaders.

Our commitment extends beyond just support; we actively engage with the broader community to foster dialogue, challenge stereotypes, and promote understanding.

Join us in our mission to empower Black students at PWIs, cultivate leadership, and celebrate the rich diversity of our experiences. Together, we can build a brighter future for all.

Meet the Board!

As a new organization, our current board consists of our Co-Founders. In the near future we will be opening up applications for various board positions to keep BSEA running!


  • Co-Founder

    Hi! My name is Zuri Bryson, I am a junior at The John Cooper School in The Woodlands, Texas. I love making short films, playing softball, and listening to music!

    I'm excited for BSEA because I can't wait to create a community much larger than those that we have at our schools. I want to be able to create a space with you all to empower our voices and build us up as young adults in our society!

  • Co- Founder

    Hi, my name is Ryleigh Pengel, and I’m a current Junior at The John Cooper School in The Woodlands. I love listening to music, writing, and advocacy!

    I’m excited for BSEA because I want to be able to connect and create a community with my black peers outside of my school. I believe that as underrepresented minorities, it is vital that we unify ourselves and create a safe environment to protect our values.