Dear Editors,

Some of you may be familiar that California State University, Fresno lost one of its great educators, Dr. James E. Walton, in 2019. I wanted to share some insight into the impact he had on me when I was a student, because his mentorship is something I still remember today.

Recently, I changed my name to “Ra,” a name that means “life” when a woman reaches a certain point of womanhood within. Reflecting on the time as President of Black Students United and as a mentee of this great educator, I am reminded of how transformative a time it was. I was becoming a leader while serving men, women, youth and communities, alongside a board of women also finding their paths.

This was a partnership to remember, as meetings with Walton took place, discussions unfolded and synergy emerged from the connections we formed. He let us organize and lead our creations like a father guiding his children and because of this, we excelled.

Though time has passed, the moments we shared remain a record for those who followed.

An educator and mentor embodies great character, something that has shaped me into the woman I am today. Changing my name has brought me peace and assurance in the character I hold, and this has been a part of the journey I wish to share with those who read this—to mark not only the end of my old names and what was but also to officially commence the woman I am now, because of who I was fortunate to become.

Valuable partnerships create movement in the world and the one Dr. Walton and I shared exemplifies that. Thank you for allowing me to return and share this space with you all.

In celebration of Dr. Walton’s life and the work he has done, please publish my story as I, too, celebrate my new beginnings.

Peace Peace,
Ra