In photos: Augusta University celebrates local Black scholars with recognition program

The Office of Academic Admissions at Augusta University recently celebrated 79 local students at its Black Scholar Recognition Program.

The event, an annual tradition since 2004, serves to celebrate local Black high school juniors who are excelling academically, showcasing student leadership or exemplifying Augusta University’s values in their schools. The event was held Feb. 15 in the Maxwell Theatre.

“This program is always exciting because it’s a way for us to celebrate Black History Month by honoring Black excellence in our community,” said Caleb Rogers, associate director of the Office of Admissions, who delivered the welcome at the event.

“We are constantly looking for ways to recognize the amazing students we have in the CSRA, and this is just one of the many opportunities we’ve found to do so.”

The keynote speech was delivered by Adebayo Onabule, a counselor at Augusta University’s Student Counseling and Psychological Services. Other speakers included Ocean Alexander, a Black Scholar Recognition Program alumna; Dr. Susan Davies, vice president for the Division of Enrollment and Student Affairs; and Dr. Tiffany Townsend, chief diversity officer at Augusta University.

After working in social work for five years, Onabule returned for graduate studies at University of West Georgia, earning a specialist degree in counseling and supervision. Onabule has amassed over 15 years of experience serving students, families and their communities through clinical mental health work focused on improving functioning and fostering healthy development.

He has worked with children, teenagers and adult populations and has integrated his multiple languages into his clinical work (Yoruba, West African Pidgin and English). Onabule’s treatment philosophy focuses on the principle that all people, at their core, crave balance: Therapy and mental health treatment aims to broaden resilience and deepen self-understanding through insights and active learning.