Criminology student passionate about making a difference

La-Tonya is a passionate student who advocates for black students on the UM campus. As a member of St John’s College and representative of the Black Student Union, she is driven to positively impact black students. 

Currently studying criminology in the Faculty of Arts, La-Tonya joined St John’s, hoping to get more out of her UM student experience. She felt ready to make a positive impact on campus, where she could continue to succeed academically while making new friends from other faculties.

After joining the St John’s student membership in Fall 2024, La-Tonya has thoroughly enjoyed meeting new friends at events like Jumpstart, coffeehouses, baked sales, and the SJCSA student lounge. As she points out, she’s found more than just a place to belong at St John’s. 

“St John’s has provided me with a community to meet new friends and a place to belong. I can come here, visit the student lounge, study, and know I have a place to go outside class.”

In addition to connecting with friends, she has also taken advantage of the study carrels and discounts at the Daily Bread Cafe and Soup4U, where she can often study for exams or complete assignments.

As she continues to impact other black students on campus, La-Tonya emphasizes that finding this student membership through Warden Dr. Allison Abra has helped her get out of the post-covid isolation she was experiencing.

“When I heard about St John’s, I joined because I felt isolated during COVID with little to do. I needed a sense of belonging when classes began in person again, which is when I found the student membership.” 

Being good friends with St John’s Residence Don Rhianna, La-Tonya is continuing to get involved at St John’s and throughout UM as she completes her third year of studies.

To learn more about the St John’s student membership or residence, visit our website.

Marissa Naylor