TUgether! Celebrates Black History Month Through Stories of Leadership, Service, and Community

This episode of TUgether! shines a powerful light on Black History Month by amplifying the voices of Temple changemakers who are building community, breaking barriers, and creating space for representation on campus and beyond.

Hosted by Mariam Elias-Danjuma, the episode centers on conversations with student leader Kori Parker and Professor Denise James, two individuals whose work reflects the spirit of service and leadership that TUgether! was created to celebrate. Through personal stories, candid reflections, and moments of inspiration, the episode reminds viewers that history is not only something we honor from the past, but something being written every day.

Kori Parker, a junior marketing major and journalism minor, shares her journey from growing up in a less diverse community to becoming president of Temple’s Black Student Union and a familiar voice at Temple athletic events. Her story speaks to the power of finding community, embracing opportunity, and leading “the Kori way” — with confidence, authenticity, and purpose. Kori’s commitment to uplifting others underscores how student leadership can create real, lasting impact.

The episode also features an in-depth conversation with Professor Denise James, whose career in journalism and education has been defined by advocacy, storytelling, and humanity. From her early experiences speaking before city council to her work in Philadelphia newsrooms and the classroom, Professor James reflects on the responsibility journalists carry to tell stories that aim for the heart while serving the public with accuracy and compassion.

Together, these conversations embody the mission of TUgether! — to spotlight individuals who serve their communities while inspiring others to do the same. As Black History Month reminds us to honor trailblazers of the past, this episode also looks forward, celebrating those who are shaping the future right here at Temple.

The episode premieres February 2 at 12 noon on TUTV, TempleTV.net, and streaming on Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV.

We’re here. You’re here. We are TUgether!