A broader lens

Growing up in Ghana, Lois Bilson didn't know anything about the University of Delaware, but a Google search brought her to UD's Department of Africana Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences.

"My background is in law, but I didn't want another traditional legal program," she said. "I was looking for a program that deals with culture, history and background, and Africana studies matched all of that."

She didn't know it at the time, but her decision to attend UD would also provide an inside look at the field of Africana studies itself, plus opportunities to connect with scholars across the globe. It would even help her learn something about her own Ghanaian culture.

Bilson, who is in her first year in the Africana studies master of arts program, also made history as the inaugural graduate assistant with the National Council for Black Studies (NCBS), which established its headquarters in the Department of Africana Studies in fall 2023 and is the discipline's leading organization.

Meaningful work

The assistantship is designed to give students professional experience and a meaningful point of entry into the discipline's network. Bilson's application and legal background immediately stood out to Alica Fontnette, NCBS executive director and assistant professor.

"What impressed me was her lived experience as an attorney," Fontnette said. "Lois is able to identify legalities and potential issues."