BlackBoard began as
the official news organ of For Members Only. Now, it remains true to its legacy of empowering and informing Northwestern's Black student body. Though its form has shifted greatly since 1971—from FMO-sponsored weekly newsletter to quarterly magazine—our mission remains the same: delivering nuanced storytelling and providing an outlet for Black creatives on campus.
1971
1978
1983-84
A small group of Black students rushed to the press their new, FMO-sponsored weekly newsletter: “The Black Board.”
Dean Whitaker converts BlackBoard from a newspaper to a monthly news magazine.
BlackBoard editors add a cover photo to each issue and a biweekly supplement called “BlackBeat” containing cartoons, editorials and poetry.
1998
2011
2016-Now
BlackBoard transforms into a glossy, 34-page magazine. Staffers experiment with style and color, while preserving its urgent tone.
BlackBoard publishes its last issue for five years.
Spearheaded by Black women, BlackBoard experiences a series of revivals. At the heart of each new iteration is a desire to create a space for Black writers and journalists to flourish.
Meet Our Team
BlackBoard Executive Staff '25-'26
Editor-in-Chief
Atarah Israel
When she is not toiling over this very website, Atarah enjoys reading, writing and tea. You
can learn more about her here.
Major: Journalism
Minors: Black Studies and Creative Nonfiction
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Opinion Editor
Dallas Thurman
Fun fact:
I'm somehow Instagram mutuals with Dwyane Wade.
Major: Journalism
Politics Editor
Yeabsira Getachew
Fun fact:
Been obsessed with Out of Character
podcast lately!
Major: Journalism and Social Policy
Events Coordinator
Amina Abdulkadir
Fun fact:
I was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Major: Psychology
Photo and Creative Writing Editor
Sydney Johnson
Sydney Johnson is the Photography and Creative Writing Editor. A lifelong photographer and poet, she enjoys melding the two crafts together to create ekphrastic experiences for viewers of her work. She is a 4th-year student studying journalism and Creative Writing.
Major: Journalism
Minor: Creative Nonfiction
Creative Director
Mariam Cosmos
Fun fact:
I was born in Kenya but I’m South Sudanese.
Major: Journalism and International Studies
Minors: Data Science
Co-Assistant Creative Director
Tee Harrison-Attobrah
Fun fact:
I’m obsessed with Jordan 4s.
Major: Biology and Black Studies
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Co-Assistant Creative Director
Kai Mohammed
Fun fact:
John Cena follows me back on Twitter (proof I’m full of whimsy & joy)
Major: Computer Science
Minors: African Studies
Co-Social Media Director
Maddy Morgan
Madison Morgan is a creative with a deep passion for storytelling across different mediums. Whether she’s developing ideas, shaping narratives, or refining details, she finds joy in bringing stories to life. Reading and writing are her constants. Beyond crafting stories, she finds genuine pleasure in editing content and helping ideas reach their full potential. Her glass is always half full.
Major: Journalism and Spanish
Integrated Marketing Certificate
Co-Social Media Director
Hannah Ajogbeje
Fun fact:
I am the oldest of 4 younger siblings (10+ years apart).
Major: Political Science
Minors: Legal Studies
Social Media Chair
Angela Ennin
Fun fact:
I hate roller coasters and all heights!
Major: Pre-Med (Undecided)