Bennie alumna on belonging and taking up space

Editor’s note: This question prompt was asked by the CSB Alumnae Board for inclusion in this column.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned over the past few years is the importance of dedicating the best hours of my day to God and then to myself.

I’ve embraced morning walks as a way to escape the demands of the world, move my body, and take a breath.

Yesterday, during my walk, I noticed small but meaningful buds on the trees and flowers in my nearby park in Stamford, Connecticut.

This sight filled my heart with joy, reminding me that the cold will soon pass, and spring is near!

Instantly, all the sadness and dread from the past few months of winter vanished, and my joy returned. Can anyone relate?

One might ask, “Racheal, how did you survive in Minnesota for four years?”

I’d say—your guess is as good as mine! So, let me introduce myself. My name is Racheal (Rashelle).

I was born in Kingston, Jamaica, raised in New York City, and have spent the last eight years in California.

I currently serve as Program Director at Stanford University and am a proud 2015 alumna of Saint Ben’s!

I love long walks on the beach, sunsets, and singing—quite badly—at karaoke or random places.

How did you feel when you first entered the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University community?

Honestly, I was thrilled. Saint Ben’s was filled with smiling faces, friendly greetings, and well-mannered people.

As a native New Yorker, it was a breath of fresh air! I experienced newfound freedoms—no parental restrictions—and all the food my heart desired. I was in love.

However, as months passed, I began to notice more. I received more stares than others, didn’t always feel welcomed at certain events, and often found myself as the only Black woman in my class.

I was lucky to see even one Professor of color. This experience shaped how I felt in the environment.

I asked myself, Did I belong here? Would I succeed? Would I find community?

The short answer was yes! I belonged and was more than qualified to be a Bennie.

I later blazed a path for myself, advocated for inclusive practices from our administrators, and cultivated communities of belonging.

So, my advice to you is this: Whatever challenge you face, take your time to grapple with your emotions, but don’t stay there.

Move into ideation and create solutions based on your influence.

Take up space, laugh loudly, and let love be the fragrance you bring into every room.