The University of Houston's African American Studies Department celebrated a milestone in May 2024 when Tre Blakes became the first student to receive a bachelor's degree since the program achieved departmental status. 

Blakes, greeted with cheers from family and classmates when receiving his AAS stole, is currently working while applying to graduate programs in African American and Africana Studies with plans to begin one in fall 2025. 

Nine students also completed minors in African American Studies: Oluwatise Adegbonmire, Kaytlin, Kesi Gray, Tayler Hatcher, Chloe Hightower, Sarah McCoy, Aiyana McGrough, Lacey Stewart and Cai Wilson.

Hightower, selected to give "Reflections from a Senior," shared her experiences in AAS courses and representing the department at various events, including UH Day at the State Capitol. 

AAS alumnus Kianna Wright, currently pursuing her doctorate, offered words of encouragement and discussed how her studies provided opportunities to build leadership skills. Wright received the Outstanding AAS Alumni Award. 

Department Chair Dr. Tara T. Green and Assistant Professor Dr. Ameenah Shakir presented additional honors, including Andrea Tribble (AAS Student of the Year), Blakes (AAS Graduate of the Year) and Faith Carter (Outstanding Student Service). 

The ceremony marked an important chapter for the growing department as it continues to develop scholars in African American Studies at the University of Houston.