Balancing Academics With Student Leadership

Langston University students Katelynn Raguindin, Courtnie Morgan, and Anthony Henry are making their mark on campus as dedicated student leaders who balance academic success while providing service to their peers. All three students are recognized for their commitment to creating a positive, supportive environment for the LU community.

Katelynn Raguindin wears many hats. She is the president of Women of Purpose, an organization dedicated to helping women embrace their purpose at Langston University. She is also a Langston University ambassador and campus photographer. Her impact reaches across campus through mentorship, service, and creative expression. As a leader of Women of Purpose, she empowers female students through workshops, discussions and community service initiatives. As an ambassador, she helps welcome future Lions to the university, and, through photography, she captures the essence of student life through memorable and exciting moments.

“Being involved on campus is important because it helps students feel connected,” Raguindin said. “I want to help others feel like they belong here at Langston.”

Raguindin reflects the power of balancing passion with responsibility through the many talents and gifts that she has picked up along her journey. She has a strong passion for leaving her legacy and is known for her strong work ethic and passion for student involvement.

Morgan, president of Queen’s Court and The Church-LU, has earned a reputation for her dedication to student success and her willingness to step up wherever help is needed. Whether she is planning student programs or lending guidance to fellow Lions, Morgan leads with compassion and determination.

A smiling woman with long, curly hair, wearing a black outfit, stands confidently with her arms crossed and one hand on her chin, set against a neutral gray background.
Courtnie Morgan

“Leadership is about serving others and setting an example,” she said. “Langston has given me so many opportunities, and I want to give back.”

In Queen’s Court, she focuses on creating unity, positivity, and empowerment among Langston’s women. Whether she’s planning events, supporting her peers, or representing the university at official functions, Morgan leads with the belief that “leadership starts with showing up for others.” Her presence and dedication set the tone for excellence in student representation.

Working with The Church-LU, she brings faith and community together. She leads one of the strongest spiritual organizations on campus, ensuring students have a space to worship, grow, and find support. Under her leadership, The Church-LU promotes campus-wide fellowship and serves as a safe space for students navigating college life. Morgan believes leadership is rooted in compassion and consistency, and her work reflects that daily.

Both Raguindin and Morgan demonstrate how students can shape campus culture through involvement, service, and a genuine desire to uplift their community. Their commitment to leadership reflects the spirit of Langston University and inspires others to pursue excellence.

Anthony Henry, a drum major for the Langston University Marching Pride, brings leadership to the field with every performance. From long rehearsals to game-day energy, Anthony motivates the band with discipline, spirit, and pride. His role requires confidence, musical excellence, and the ability to unify more than 100 band members. Through his leadership, the Marching Pride continues to shine as one of LU’s most iconic traditions.

A drum major leading the Langston University Marching Pride during a performance, with a confident pose and gesturing upward, while fellow band members are seen in the background.
Anthony Henry

At Langston University, leadership comes in many forms: service, creativity, faith, and even the sound of a marching band igniting school spirit. Together, Morgan, Raguindin, and Henry represent a powerful truth: leadership is not defined by one type of student, but by the many ways students choose to serve. Their passion, dedication, and commitment reflect the heart of Langston’s mission to build leaders who will impact the world.

A young man wearing glasses and a navy hoodie with 'Langston' printed on it, poses against a light blue background, showcasing his confident demeanor.

Christian Macklin

Christian Macklin is a sophomore broadcast journalism major from Memphis, Tennessee. Macklin writes for the gazette to implement change and to be a voice for the student body and the community around me, and the campus community. Christian wanted to cover the stories he has written to bring forth change and to be a light in other people’s lives.  Christian thinks the work we do here matters because not many people have a voice of change and reason, so Christian wants to be that mouthpiece for others to feed off of, so that they can be heard.  Christian’s hobbies outside of the major are writing, watching TV and reading, and hanging out with family and friends. 
Christian can be reached by email: chmackl@okstate.edu

Story ideas, opinion editorials, calendar events and advertising requests can be sent to dthom34@langston.edu. You may follow The Gazette on Instagram @lu_gazette, or sign up for our free newsletter.

The Gazette serves as the student voice of Langston University. It is produced within the Department of Communication as a teaching tool and local news source for the campus community. The views and opinions expressed within are those of the writers whose names appear with the articles and do not necessarily represent the views of Langston University. 

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