Ball State’s National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) student chapter was recently named the association’s 2023-2024 National Student Chapter of the Year. The accolade is given to student chapters that exemplify leadership, dedication to NABJ’s mission, and excellence in programming and community engagement.
“This award embodies the students’ hard work, commitment to journalism and broadcasting, and a desire to help the Muncie community and the Ball State community gain agency and voice,” said Dr. Gabriel Tait, associate professor of journalism and strategic communication at Ball State.
The University’s NABJ student chapter is led by its co-advisors, Dr. Tait and Dr. Maria Williams-Hawkins, a professor of media and the chapter’s founder; and Aasha Watkins, the student chapter president.
“Ms. Watkins, who has taken the reigns this year as president, is running 50 miles per hour in a 15-mile-an-hour zone to help other students grow in the organization, develop structure, and show what effective student leadership looks like on campus,” Dr. Tait said.
Fostering Professional Growth and Mentorship
Since 1975, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has championed diversity and inclusion in journalism. Established as an organization that advocates for Black journalists and for increasing their representation in newsrooms, the group has grown to more than 4,000 members.
At Ball State, Ms. Watkins says her chapter “strives to be a place where Black students feel seen and supported—whether they’re just starting in journalism or are preparing for their professional careers.”
“It’s about giving us a voice and ensuring we have the resources to succeed,” continued Ms. Watkins, a sophomore majoring in sports production.
The NABJ student chapter at Ball State aims to bridge the gap between the academic environment and the professional world, giving students the tools they need to thrive post-graduation. This chapter regularly hosts workshops and panel discussions featuring established Black journalists, media professionals, and communicators who offer insight into the evolving landscape of journalism.
Also, the chapter is heavily involved in the community—with its members serving as mentors at the Boys & Girls Club, working in after-school programs, volunteering at women’s shelters, and donating clothing for community organizations. The chapter also does other community outreach through various initiatives.
“Our student chapter sparks excitement about the work being done here on campus,” Dr. Tait said. “That energy becomes contagious, starting with our student leaders and spreading throughout the organization.”
Living Out the Value of Beneficence
One of NABJ’s core elements, especially at Ball State, is centered on beneficence—and how the members live up to that pledge,” Dr. Tait said.
“These imperatives align with NABJ’s national values while also emphasizing a deep engagement with the community,” he continued. “Educationally, it’s about translating these values into action through high-impact practices and immersive experiences. We bring these concepts to life, and you can see it in our work.”
While the group has much to celebrate now with the Chapter of the Year accolade, Ball State’s NABJ student chapter is already looking ahead. Plans for the upcoming academic year are underway, including new mentorship initiatives, media literacy projects, and partnerships with local news outlets to provide students with hands-on reporting experience.
“We’ve built a strong foundation, but there’s still so much more we can do,” Ms. Watkins said. “We want to keep pushing for diversity in newsrooms, creating opportunities for our members, and making a lasting impact within journalism.”
