Fredericks nominated as Luminary

Shawn Fredericks, a fourth-year student majoring in international studies, was among 11 individuals recognized across campus during Black History Month celebrations.

The Office for Institutional Equity and Diversity, in partnership with NC State Athletics, sought nominations for “Legends” and “Luminaries” in the Black community. According to the nomination form, criteria were for individuals “whose contributions have enriched an NC State program, initiative, or effort on campus or beyond. In particular, we seek to honor individuals who have supported and/or enhanced NC State’s Black community. We want to uplift those who uplift us.”

“Legends” are those who have “provided dedicated service for a sustained period of time,” while “Luminaries” are those who have “gone above and beyond for a shorter time but in a significant way.”

Fredericks was nominated by Jamie Lynn Gilbert, his adviser at WKNC 88.1 FM HD-1/-HD-2. As podcast manager for WKNC, Shawn created the podcast Shawn’s SoapBox.

“In the show’s first nine episodes, Shawn and his guests have discussed topics such as student activism, retention, and graduation rates among minority students, racial health disparities, being Black abroad, Black entrepreneurship, and growing up African in America,” Gilbert wrote in the nomination. “The content Shawn has created in just six months has itself honored and enhanced NC State’s Black community, so it would be fitting to recognize Shawn for his contributions.”

Outside of WKNC, Shawn has also worked with the Nubian Message and Technician newspapers.

Nominees were recognized at the Black History Month Celebrations at Mens’ and Womens’ Basketball games on Feb. 13 and Feb. 22.