The African Student Union at Neptune High School

Throughout the past five years, the African Student Union has been generating change not only within the classrooms and hallways of Neptune High, but also amidst the Neptune and Asbury Park communities.

Under the direction of advisor Mrs. Kia M. Lyons, the African Student Union has been able to help the less fortunate by volunteering their time and resources.

The African Student Union consists of approximately 25 high school students, grades 9-12.

The motto of A.S.U. is “Where Education, Enrichment, and Enlightenment Meet Outside of the Classroom”.

A.S.U. will host several events this school year. During the month of February, A.S.U. will organize and host Neptune High School’s African-American Read-In Day, visit a local Elementary school to promote literacy, host the annual Talent Expo, and volunteer and support the Neptune Township Committee to develop ideas for their annual Black History Month programs, in which A.S.U. also participates.

In the spring, the African Student Union will take part in a special trip in which the members will go to New York City on a Harlem Cultural Tour where they will receive a historical tour of Harlem, sing at the Apollo Theatre, and enjoy lunch at Sylvia’s famous soul food restaurant. The ideal A.S.U. member is thoughtful, conscience, and concerned about cultural and educational growth outside of the classroom. The African Student Union meets generally the first Friday of every month from 2:00pm – 2:30pm in Room B257.

Membership is always open.

Programs this year include the following:

• Amistad presentation – Prince Among Slaves documentary – Lecture and viewing, with a powerful Q&A afterwards
• Community Service – Feeding the less fortunate – Pre-Thanksgiving Feast (members served and helped prepare dinners) at “At the Table” restaraunt in Asbury Park NJ.
• “One Warm Coat” – coat and sweatshirt drive. Coats will be donated to Linkages and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America (Asbury Park)
• Cultural Experience – Members will attend the Presidential Inauguration in Washington, DC. This historical event will be funded by A.S.U.
• Black History Month programs to include: Neptune High School’s annual African-American Read-in day, daily black facts (trivia contest), group visit to Crossroads Theatre, and a panel of professional African-American role models are scheduled  to come in and share their success stories with Neptune High School students and staff