The Standard Chapter of the Collegiate 100 recently celebrated a momentous occasion, welcoming 34 new Olympians at their 2024 induction ceremony. As the second co-ed chapter at Southern University Baton Rouge, this event marked an inspiring milestone for the organization.
Collegiate 100 (C100) is a campus-based student organization affiliated with the 100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge. As a nonprofit organization, C100 empowers African-American scholars to step into roles of leadership, responsibility, and community guidance.
The organization’s mission centers on nurturing and enhancing the growth of young African-American males and females through mentorship and guidance. By fostering programs that build stronger communities, C100 serves as a beacon of hope for African-American youth.
On the evening of Tuesday, November 12, the 34 Olympians entered the induction ceremony with confidence and grace, donning sharp suits and light blue ensembles that symbolized their commitment to excellence. The ceremony began with a heartfelt prayer led by current Standard Chapter members, followed by a warm welcome to family, friends, and distinguished guests, including members of Collegiate 100 and the director of membership intake.
As each initiate stepped forward, they were met with cheers and admiration from their loved ones in the audience. Senior Ja’Mon Gracin reflected on the event, sharing, “What I enjoyed about the C100 event was all the hard work they put into their skits and their song. They weren’t afraid to be themselves during the performance.”
With much anticipation, the initiates were formally inducted by the Brothers, President, and CEO of 100 Black Men of Metro Baton Rouge and 100 Black Men of America. Newly selected members officially accepted their place in the Standard Chapter of Collegiate 100, symbolizing their dedication to the organization’s values.
The ceremony also showcased the creativity and enthusiasm of the new members through a skit that blended entertainment with educational insights about Collegiate 100. Junior Aaliyah Singleton remarked, “The event was so beautiful and very entertaining. The skit was informative and fun, and it really highlighted the inductees’ efforts. This was my first time attending a C100 induction, and I can say that I really enjoyed it.”
The induction concluded with a moving song that celebrated the history and mission of Collegiate 100, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance. For junior Gala Marcus, one of the newly inducted members, the pinning ceremony stood out as a defining moment. “Getting pinned was powerful, it made me realize how much I had accomplished. Meeting and learning from 33 new people was not easy, but it was absolutely worth it. The connections and experiences were invaluable, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world,” Marcus shared.
As these 34 new Olympians begin their journey within Collegiate 100, their dedication and potential promise a bright future for the organization and the communities it serves. Congratulations to the newest members of Collegiate 100—may your impact be profound and enduring!
