Morgan State Student-Leader Shines at UMBC's Black Excellence Summit

At a time when many institutions are retreating from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitments, students at Morgan State University are boldly advancing the work. Serena Studivant, a Ph.D. student in Higher Education at Morgan State University, exemplifies this leadership. In February 2025, Studivant served as both a presenter and planning committee member for the 2nd Annual Black Excellence Summit at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC).

In addition to her doctoral studies, Studivant serves as the Assistant Director for Commuter Student Success at UMBC, where she also contributes her time and vision as a member of the summit’s organizing committee. Her presentation, titled "Unleash Your Superpower: Owning Your Story to Defeat Imposter Syndrome," was an engaging and interactive session designed to empower participants to see their life experiences as the foundation of their superhero origin story.

"Sharing my origin story and how it has shaped my creative superpower was both empowering and affirming," said Studivant. "Imposter syndrome often makes us question our worth, but when we own our stories—our struggles, triumphs, and the unique perspectives we bring to the table—we unlock a power that no one can take from us."

In her talk, Studivant reflected on growing up in Baltimore in a close-knit family, discovering an early passion for photography and art that would later shape her unique worldview. As a Black first-generation college student, she shared how her creative lens allowed her to see possibilities in the face of challenges, ultimately becoming a key to her academic and professional resilience.

"My session focused on encouraging students to embrace their personal narratives and transform challenges into strength," she explained. "I wanted attendees to know that their lived experience is a superpower that can help them thrive in every area of their lives."

The summit, themed around owning your experience and unlocking your superpower, created a space for participants to reflect on the "delicate balance between excellence and notoriety" in the context of the Black experience. Through empowering conversations, narratives, and workshops, the summit fostered a collective sense of thriving, healing, and self-empowerment.

Reflecting on the experience, Studivant shared, "I walked away truly grateful for the opportunity and in awe of the positive feedback I received. My journey in higher education has been a catalyst for both my personal and professional growth. I look forward to continuing my work as a leader at UMBC and a scholar at Morgan, striving to pay it forward."

The Department of Advanced Studies, Leadership, and Policy at Morgan State University celebrates Serena Studivant’s contributions to higher education and her commitment to equity-centered leadership. Her participation in the UMBC Black Excellence Summit reflects the department's vision of preparing transformative leaders and scholars who uplift Black students and communities through equity-oriented teaching, research, and service.