For Madison Walters, Black History Month is rooted in reflection and gratitude. A senior women's basketball player at UTPB majoring in Biology, Walters sees the month as a time to honor the sacrifices of those who came before her and the freedom their perseverance created.  

"Black History Month to me means remembering how life was for our ancestors and how they paved the way for us to be where we are now," said Walters. "There were so many sacrifices made so that we could be free and have the opportunities we have today." 

For Walters, celebrating her Black identity has always been grounded in faith, confidence, and the lessons passed down through generations of strong women in her family. 

"I try to always celebrate who I am and the color of my skin," she said. "It's hard being a Black woman, but my mom and grandma taught me to stand strong in my faith as a Christian, because God made me this way for a reason. They taught me to always be confident and comfortable in my skin." 

Growing up, Walters learned about Black history both at home and through conversations with educated Black leaders, especially after attending a majority white school. Those lessons shaped her understanding of resilience, leadership, and identity. 

"We had so many discussions about powerful Black leaders, entrepreneurs, and what life was like for our ancestors," said Walters. "Those conversations are something we still have today." 

An influential quote that continues to guide Walters comes from Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." 

At UTPB, Walters has found a sense of belonging that makes campus feel like home. 

"I love the people and the community here," she said. "UTPB is campus is filled with love, and I couldn't be happy to be at the school."