The University of Houston–Downtown’s Black Student Association (BSA) recently hosted the first-ever Community Baby Shower on November 1, 2025, a warm and joyful event designed to celebrate and support UHD students and community members who are expectant or new parents. The event served about 20 families, offering an afternoon filled with games, food, prizes, and heartfelt encouragement. The atmosphere inside the 40,000 Windows Room was glowing with autumn tones and a shimmering “Oh Baby” balloon banner setting the mood for celebration.
For me personally, this event held deep significance. I became a mother at 18, and at that time, there were very few support systems in place for young women striving to overcome challenges while pursuing higher education. This baby shower was a reflection of what I wished had existed for me, a network of encouragement, guidance, and love for parents balancing their dreams with the responsibilities of family life.
A highlight of the day was the participation of Walgreens Clinical Trials, whose representative, Stephen Fadowole, flew in from Chicago to join this special community event. Their presence underscored Walgreens’ genuine commitment to supporting families and advancing health awareness. The team not only supplied gift cards, swag, and giveaways, but also engaged parents in meaningful dialogue about health equity and vaccination awareness. Their presentation emphasized how access to healthcare, research, and education can make a lasting difference in communities often underrepresented in medical studies.
The event also featured Adrienne Shanklin-Miles, UHD’s Equal Opportunity Investigator, who spoke passionately about parents’ rights on campus. She emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive academic environment where student-parents can thrive without fear of discrimination or unnecessary barriers.
The moment that touched my heart the most was when my daughter, now a doctoral graduate from Baylor University stood before the group as our guest speaker. She shared insight from her dissertation, which focused on single mothers earning degrees and the lack of institutional support that often hinders their success. Watching her speak to other mothers reminded me that cycles can be broken through resilience, education, and compassion. Her presence symbolized the very outcome that events like this strive to inspire perseverance against all odds. The Black Student Association’s mission to Build, Serve, and Aspire was truly embodied that day. Together, we built bridges of support, served families with kindness, and aspired to create a legacy of compassion that future generations of Gators can carry forward.
This event was about giving more than gifts—it was about giving encouragement and reminding every parent that they are not alone and that their dreams are still possible. As guests left with smiles, boxes of diapers, wipes, children’s books, nursing kits, gift bags, and a wealth of valuable information, one thing was clear: the UHD community continues to thrive through love, service, and the power of coming together.