Student, faculty member honored with King ‘Building the Dream’ Award
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr., two members of the Ramily were recognized during a joint program of Winston-Salem State University and Wake Forest University on the official federal holiday honoring the civil rights icon.
For the past 23 years, each school selects one student and one faculty or staff member who exemplifies King’s spirit of social justice and equity for the betterment of the community.
WSSU student Nia James and faculty member Maestra D’Walla Simmons-Burke were honorees at the 2025 Building the Dream ceremonial program, held Jan. 20 on the campus of WSSU. They were recognized for their outstanding service and dedication to the community.
James is a Thurgood Marshall College Fund yard ambassador and UNC Association of Student Governments associate vice president for HBCU and MSI Relations, where we advocated for equity and representation for more than 250,000 students in the UNC system.
She organized impactful initiatives such as Vote & Vibe and Barrels Beyond Borders, fostering civic engagement and global awareness. She is a powerful advocate for equity, education and community empowerment, embodying the principles of King’s vision for systemic change and inclusivity.
James has demonstrated resilience as a first-generation college student, overcoming financial and health challenges to fund her education through scholarships. Her innovative efforts, including creating platforms to eliminate HBCU student debt and hosting events that unite diverse communities, highlight her commitment to uplifting others and advancing social justice.
Burke has made significant contributions to WSSU and beyond through her exceptional work in music education. She embodies the qualities that King upheld: self-control, wisdom, persistence and creative vision. Her commitment to social justice is evident in the repertoire she selects for her choirs, ensuring that students grasp the profound meaning behind each piece and convey its message to the audience.
Her exceptional and diverse vocal and choral tutelage are continuously demonstrated through the musical careers of the outstanding students she has nurtured.
Burke works tirelessly to support her students, utilizing her connections on campus to help them navigate their academic journeys while also offering wisdom for their personal lives.
Winners from Wake Forest University were student Chase Clark and staff member Leighann Brooks.
