The African American Achievers Society started in April of 2016 after one student formed a group and went to building principal Dr. Joe Dobrinic to say, “There is a need for African American students to meet and work together.”

Now there is a leadership award named after 2017 alumna Keturah Gadson. Named after the African American Achievers founder, this award is for African American students who display exceptional leadership through their involvement and impact at the high school and in the St. Louis community.

That award and others will be presented during this year’s Black History Program show held in the high school auditorium which has a theme of the Triple A Awards. Doors will open at 6 p.m. on Feb. 20 and the show will begin at 6:30 p.m.

As a unit, African Americans created a safe space where they could come together, talk, plan events, and gain leadership skills. All while feeling comfortable in their own skin.

Since its founding, members of the African American Achievers Society, affectionately called Triple A, have always felt they need to have a Black History Month Program.

“Last year’s program focused around the theme ‘The Playlist.’ It incorporated music and dance that was important to black culture,” said program director and club sponsor Kara White. “Last year there were lots of poets and some amazing, nationally-ranked step teams”

This year, she said spectators should be ready for something they haven’t experienced yet.

“[This year’s program] is going to be a more fun show than previous years. This year’s theme centers around the Triple A Awards.”

However, Triple A doesn’t plan to deviate too far off course of what it’s always done.

“There’s going to be the Triple A dance, which is performed by a group of Triple A members and is always good,” White said. “Like always, people should expect good music and phenomenal speakers.”

According to White, the program is more than a space to demonstrate black excellence.

“The program is important so that we remember to celebrate our culture, think about all that we have been through, and highlight where we are now.”

Those in attendance will experience entertainment like music, dancing, speakers and awards. Wesley Bell and Congressman Lacy Clay are scheduled to be guest speakers. The program will also feature comedian Nick Nichols, the Normandy High School band, and Jade Boyd

“They should expect a lot of dancing, good music, and phenomenal speakers,” she said. “It’s going to be a more fun show than previous years.”

Everyone is invited to attend the free show.

“Come out to celebrate Black History Month and support all of the members’ hard work,” White said. “It will be a really enjoyable experience.”