When Kimberly Griffin was a student, her role model was Kimberly Reese. She was a black teenager on the then-popular television show "A Different World," who was cool, had friends, and whom boys liked. As she grew older, she began to find role models who related more to the person she wanted to become.
Today, Griffin is an assistant professor and research associate who wants to set an example for Penn State's black community.
Griffin was one of the panelists who spoke at the Omega Psi Phi and the Black Male Leadership Symposium Black and Successful discussion Thursday night in the Thomas Building.
Antonio Young (senior-media studies), president of Omega Psi Phi, felt that students at Penn State need to be pointed in the right direction.
"They've had the right formula to become successful black professionals and I want to follow them," he said.
The four panelists included both newer and older members of Penn State faculty who each gave real life advice to students on their experiences.
Questions were asked concerning topics of values, the meaning of success, and admitting faults.
Blannie Bowen, vice provost for academic affairs, told attendees that he realized he wasn't good enough to play baseball but wanted to get into broadcasting for ESPN. One day, a broadcast professor told him that while he was good at writing sports news, he shouldn't ever put his face on camera.
When it came to the question of personal goals, all agreed that faith, family, and career were the most important things to them.
Wayne Gersie, a counselor at the Multicultural Resource Center, said some students are too wrapped up in non-academic pursuits to get the most out of their education.
Stephanie Preston, interim assistant director in the Paul Robeson Cultural Center, encouraged students to dare to be different. She said there were many different opportunities her generation dreamt about and didn't do. She emphasized studying abroad and doing what's needed to go further.
At the end of the night, panelists were presented with certificates of appreciation and a lighted touch clock. Students were then encouraged to ask the panelists questions.
Christopher King (senior-criminal justice) said while there are black people in high positions, students are less likely to seek them out and research them.
Carshena Culmer (freshman-psychology) wants to go to law school after she graduates, but she knows she's not going to get there without the right attitude.
Culmer said that seeing the panelists reinforces the idea that everyone can do something if they work hard. "Actually working for it, putting in time and effort."
