The Black Student Union presented a tribute to Whitney Houston on Friday held in the Student Center.

As people started to come in and find seats, BSU played a mix of Houston’s songs and a variety of other artists old and new.

“It is important to spread the idea for us as African Americans to contribute, because it seems like we’re not contributing to campus,” Vice President of BSU Angeylca Tyson said.

“It went pretty well to be a last minute event. We only had about three weeks,” Tyson continued.

He was there to welcome the crowd and get everything started.

The tribute opened with a prayer led by Gulfrey Laurent II. After he closed the prayer the master of ceremonies was introduced.

Former BSU President Tremel Steward was the M.C. and explained the main reason for the event. “Although tonight we mourn the loss of such an incredible voice we also want to celebrate the career of an incredible artist who has paved the road for many other artists,” he said.

Steward went on to say, “What is amazing is how some teachers, staff, community and officials will not take part in a festivity like today.”

After Student Trustee Areal Hughes performed a modern dance piece, Vice Presiden of Student Services Steven Johnson spoke on behalf of him and Cerritos College President Linda Lacy who was not present.

“We have a wonderful history of this club providing all sorts of programs and services to the community and the college,” he said.

Then students and friends of BSU walked the catwalk showing off different styles to various Whitney Houston songs.

The guest speaker was Lynell Wiggins, a counselor at Cerritos College. He read the poem, “As I Grew Older” that was written by Langston Hughes.

He said, “My heart’s desire for you, learn to use what you already have, identify what is already within you, build on the talent you have, identify the areas you need to strengthen and used that talent to break down the wall.”

BSU honored special family members and students who contribute to helping BSU.

It also gave an award to Monica Bellas for being an outstanding teacher.

The tribute to Whitney Houston ended with a talent show, students showed off their talents on tap dancing, hip hop mixed with modern dance and hip-hop.