This is the last in a five-part series profiling the contestants of the Mr. Black MSU pageant.
Maurice Turner thinks Mr. Black MSU should be less of a role model and more of an everyday man.
“I got involved because I wanted to see a more well-rounded individual at least go out for the title and try to attain it,” the human resources and society senior said.
The Mr. Black MSU pageant, sponsored by the Black Student Alliance, profiles black male undergraduates who stand out academically through their student leadership on and off campus.
Marketing senior DeAndre Carter, founder and president of DCI Motivational Services, a motivational speaking business, was crowned the first Mr. Black MSU last year.
In addition to being secretary of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and a member of BSA, Turner also helps out at the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing, mentors two students at Everett High School, 3900 Stabler St., in Lansing and works with the Urban League in his hometown of Flint.
BSA President Tonya Upthegrove said the title of Mr. Black MSU gives recognition to the unsung heroes of the black student community.
“We put on this pageant to promote black male leadership and to honor those students who play an active role in the community, have achieved academic excellence and who represent the black community in their everyday actions,” the communication senior said.
LaKesha Rawls, president of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. - Turner’s sister sorority - said Turner’s community service involvement at MSU, in the Lansing area and at home makes him “more than qualified” to become this year’s Mr. Black MSU.
“He’s very caring and very concerned about the black community,” the political science senior said. “He defies all the stereotypes about black men and he leads by example, which makes him an excellent role model.
“He’s the epitome of what a young black man should be, and that’s what we need.”
As a leader, students will be able to talk to Turner no matter what the situation, he said.
“I believe the community is looking for somebody they can relate with
