TAMPA, Fla. — For the first time in the 63-year history of the University of South Florida, students have elected a black woman to lead the student body.
"I want to be a role model for young women, especially young women of color,” said junior Britney Deas of Miami. “I just want all the little girls out there to know if they set their mind out to do something, it's definitely achievable.”
Black students were not allowed to enroll in the university until 1961, so Deas’ historic campaign has been received with much excitement.
“I didn't think it would garner this much attention, but I realize that the representation that I'm exemplifying is very important,” she said. "When you see someone, especially on television or any big platform and you see someone that looks like you, it means a lot. As a young girl, my mother, whenever Obama would be speaking on TV, if I was doing my homework, if I was doing something, if I was sleeping, she'd wake me up ... because she wanted me to know that these things are attainable for me as well."
Deas will assume her new role in May.
Emerald Morrow is a reporter with 10News WTSP. Like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter. You can also email her at emorrow@wtsp.com.
What other people are reading right now:
- Rib fractures and brain bleeding: Police say a dad violently murdered his baby
- Man punched companion in face when he found out he was a pedophile, police say
- Two first cousins say they're in love and are petitioning to get legally married
- Trainer with autism opens gym specifically for clients with autism
- After DNA test, man discovers he's an African prince
►Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the 10News app now.
Have a news tip? Email desk@wtsp.com, or visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed.