WSSU engages in campus and community outreach for Breast Cancer Awareness Week
Winston-Salem State University will once again unite students, faculty, staff and the community for Breast Cancer Awareness Week, October 20–24. The weeklong series of events will promote education, prevention and compassion while celebrating the courage of survivors.
“Winston-Salem State has long been committed to helping raise awareness not only about breast cancer, but about all cancers that affect our communities,” said Chancellor Bonita J. Brown. “We’re proud that our university recently earned the Gold Standard Accreditation from the CEO Roundtable on Cancer, an honor that recognizes our efforts to reduce cancer risk through education, prevention and wellness programs like this one.”
The celebration begins Monday, October 20, with a Kickoff Party in DJR 100 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring DJ Energizer, food trucks, the WSSU Powerhouse Cheerleaders, line dancing and healthcare vendors offering screenings and resources.
On Tuesday, October 21, the community will gather at the Clocktower from noon to 1 p.m. for the Pink Pins & Ribbons Distribution, symbolizing solidarity with those affected by breast cancer.
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month isn’t just about wearing pink,” Brown said. “It’s about empowering people with knowledge, helping them understand the risk factors and symptoms, encouraging regular screenings, supporting those in treatment and celebrating the survivors who inspire us every day.”
Midweek programming includes a Panel Discussion on Body Dysmorphia on Wednesday, October 22, from 6-8 p.m. in DJR 100, featuring mental healthcare professionals and vendors. Light refreshments will be provided.
“We chose body dysmorphia and mental health because these issues are often overlooked in conversations about cancer prevention and survivorship. Both topics directly impact how individuals see themselves, their willingness to seek care, and how they cope with difficult diagnoses,” said Trivy Johnson, who is leading the Cancer Awareness Committee. “We wanted to create a space where our students, faculty and community could learn from experts and share honest dialogue about how mental health connects to overall wellness.”
On Thursday, October 23, the campus will come together for a Candlelight Vigil at the Clocktower from 6:30-7:30 p.m., honoring those lost to breast cancer and recognizing the strength of survivors.
The week concludes on Friday, October 24, with the Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon in DJR 100 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring Mr. Alumni 2025 Brian “B Daht” McLaughlin as guest speaker. Registration is required, and lunch will be served.
B Daht is a well-known media personality who can inspire and connect authentically with diverse audiences. He lost his mother, Arlene Palm, to breast cancer. Palm served WSSU in the Education Department.
The luncheon will honor both Palm and breast cancer activist Taneisha Gist (WSSU Class of ‘06) for their beauty and strength, Johnson said.
For Chancellor Brown, the week also carries deep personal meaning. “This cause is close to my heart because I’m a breast cancer survivor,” she said. “I know the fear that comes with a diagnosis, the challenges of treatment and the gratitude that comes with recovery. But I also know not everyone gets that same outcome, and that’s why this work matters so much. We want to see more survivors, more hope and more stories of healing.”
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