The TCU Black Student Association will host “How Pretty Girls Protect Their Crown: Hair 101” on March 27, creating a space for women to explore hair care, identity and self-confidence through conversation and community.

More than a typical campus event, organizers said the program is designed to address the cultural and personal significance of hair, particularly for Black women navigating college life at a predominantly white institution.

Promotional graphic for the 2026 Pretty Girls Protect Their Crowns on March 27. (Photo courtesy of The Black Student Association)

“Hair is an important part of anyone’s life,” said Benny Tewolde, the BSA vice president and a sophomore strategic communication and international economics double major. “Many young girls aren’t taught how to care for their natural hair, but to see it as another struggle. We wanted to create a space where women can talk about those experiences and feel supported.”

Tewolde said conversations around hair often extend beyond beauty and into identity.

“Black women’s hair is political,” Tewolde said. “We are reclaiming that by creating spaces where we can talk about the stigma and the love we have for our crown.”

The event, planned in collaboration with the Freshman Action Team, also focuses on helping first-year students build community early in their college experience.

“At a PWI, it can sometimes feel difficult to find a sense of belonging,” said Ayomide Lowo, Freshman Action Team president and a first-year political science and criminal justice double-major. “Creating spaces like this allows students to be vulnerable, share experiences and build confidence from the beginning.”

Eviana Rudolph, the event coordinator, said intentional planning ensures the program reflects a wide range of experiences.

“I wanted to create a space where everyone felt included,” Rudolph said. “There are limited spaces for Black and Brown women to openly share their personal experiences, so that discussion piece is especially meaningful.”

Ayomide Lowo smiles at a TCU Black Student Association event, embracing her natural curls and celebrating confidence and community. (Photo courtesy of The Black Student Association)

The night will include a guest speaker, open dialogue and a raffle, balancing education with connection.

University support also plays a role in making events like this possible.

“Hair, especially within Black communities, is deeply tied to identity, culture and history,” Jayla Hill, assistant director of TCU Student Identity & Engagement, said. “Programming like this allows students to feel seen, valued and supported.”

Organizers said they hope attendees leave with more than styling tips.

“I hope people leave feeling comfortable in their natural hair and knowing they are not alone,” Tewolde said. “That sense of community is what really matters.”