Itunuoluwa Williams represents Alcorn as a contestant on the Black College Quiz Show
A junior political science major from Alcorn State University tested her knowledge against students from across the country in a televised game show catered to HBCU students.
Itunuoluwa Williams of Lagos, Nigeria, was one of 24 contestants to participate in the Black College Quiz game show Friday, Jan. 10. The show airs nationally every Saturday at 6 a.m. CST on BounceTV and Sundays at 7 a.m. CST on ABC WAPT-16 in the Jackson, Mississippi market, and 5 a.m. Saturdays on FOX WLOV-27 in the Columbus-Tupelo market. Viewers can also watch old episodes on the show’s YouTube channel.
Sponsored by StateFarm and hosted by national radio personality, actor, and comedian Nephew Tommy, the Black College Quiz game show series is to encourage an appreciation of African-American heritage by all people in the entertaining quiz show format. Now in its seventh season, Black College Quiz shows the nation that African-Americans have made significant contributions to the world. Participants on the show earn scholarship money to help offset the costs associated with college.
Because of her experience at the university and the preparation she receives daily, Williams felt privileged to participate on behalf of Alcorn. She said that meeting college students from other schools was one of the highlights of the event.
"I was honored to represent Alcorn State University," said Williams. "The atmosphere was lively. Everyone from the coaches from other schools to the studio staff was concerned with our self-development and career goals. It was an enlightening experience meeting young, goal-oriented students who looked like me and have similar experiences on their college journey."
While preparing for the competition, Williams took the time to dive deeper into her history and the challenges black people had to endure. The information she learned empowers her to avoid similar pitfalls to gain success in the future.
"I realized the importance of knowing my history and how my generation can learn from the mistakes of the past to have a better future. Studying for the program taught me so much about African and African-American progress in the world. I feel like I've been passed the baton to take my generation to greater heights."
Spending time with hardworking and goal-oriented college students added more drive to Williams' work ethic.
"Being amongst young African-American people who are determined to succeed was encouraging. It motivated me to continue the pursuit of my dream career, which is becoming an attorney."
