Southern Alameda County Students Celebrated at Awards Ceremony

More than 500 students of African descent from southern Alameda County schools were honored at a special awards ceremony Sunday night.

The  Southern Alameda County Alliance of African American Educators (SACAAAE) recognized 530 black students at the 7th Annual Cultural Pursuits Student Achievement Awards, held April 17 at Chabot College.

Awards were given to students from 65 schools. Among the honorees were 27 from .

The students, from grades five to 12, were selected for for their diligence in six different categories: Spiritual Consciousness and Resilience; African American History Awareness; Fine Arts and Talent; Leadership and Civic Involvement; Academic Potential and Success; and Academic Excellence. Seniors were individually recognized with each one, along with his or her college of choice, announced to the crowd.

The evening began with an invocation by Rev. Gregory Fobbs, followed by a short video with the song "Lift Ev'ry Voice And Sing," commonly known as the Black National Anthem. The video depicted African Americans throughout history, from the days of slavery up to present day icons like Oprah and ending with an image of President Obama.

During the event, Bobbie Brooks, SACAAAE president, pointed out that the African American presence in the southern Alameda County is often forgotten.

"The reason this program was created is because Oakland is our neighbor, and people think that once they leave, there are no other black people," Brooks said. "We want them to realize that we're here too."

Shante and Shanice Thomas, twin sisters and students at  in Union City, were caught off guard when they were told of their awards for academic excellence.

"It's quite an honor," Shante said. "I wasn't really expecting an award; our teacher nominated us. It feels good to be recognized."

Both girls want to go to college. Shante wants to become a lawyer or a crime scene investigator, while Shanice hopes to become a forensic scientist.

"I didn't even see it coming ... but I really appreciate it," said Murelle Johnson, another student at Cesar Chavez Middle School.

Murelle was recognized for her  talent as a basketball player, and she hopes to continue playing through high school and college. Her goal is to play in the Women's National Basketball Association someday.

The annual awards ceremony is held to counter the negativity surrounding African American youth, said Ric Ricard, executive board member and master of ceremonies for the SACAAAE, in a previous interview with Patch. He exhorted parents, teachers and other role models to take responsibility for encouraging black students to succeed in school, emphasizing the event's theme, "Creating a College-Going Culture."

Those like Brenden Brown, a student at Canyon Middle School in Castro Valley, are already on that path to success.

Brenden's friends weren't surprised at all when he received an award for academic excellence.

"Their reaction was: 'Duh,'" he said. A science lover, Brenden hopes to become a building engineer in the future.

His key to success? "Work hard and pay attention," he said.