LYNCHBURG, Va. – The University of Lynchburg is making strides in building unity and fighting for racial justice. The institution recently chartered its NAACP chapter -- the first collegiate chapter in Central Virginia.
Davion Washington Jr., a university senior, says he had one more assignment before walking across the graduation stage.
“I really wanted to hone in on one of my personal passions and goals,” said Washington.
He founded the university’s NAACP chapter, which was chartered earlier this month.
The group says the university has historically been a predominately white institution, with about a 10% African American student population and a 6% to 8% Hispanic student population.
“That’s where the NAACP will do the work to educate our peers and to continue to foster a healthy environment where everyone is understanding of one another based on all of our various backgrounds,” Washington said.
Washington wants the chapter to create an open dialogue, especially when tension is built across the country.
“True leaders create more leaders and create opportunities for future leaders,” Washington said.
Desmond Mosby, the university’s student employment coordinator, serves as the chapter’s advisor and says for the NAACP to continue, the younger generation must carry the torch.
“That torch has to be passed on. Somebody has to be willing to stand up, step in and take on those responsibilities,” said Mosby.
Stepping up as president of the group is freshman Desmond Harvey.
The business major looks to increase membership and unity.
“For me, it’s personally about bringing our community together, to teach people understanding and unite each other,” said Harvey.
The chapter has about 30 people interested in becoming members next fall.