Three Huskers Participate in Big Ten Life Series: Selma to Montgomery

Three Nebraska student-athletes participated in the Big Ten Life Series: Selma to Montgomery this July, including Ayzhia Hall (women’s gymnastics), Seven Hicks (track and field) and Arianna Walker (track and field).
 
The trip included student-athletes, coaches, staff, and administrators from across the Big Ten Conference.  
 
“This trip was such an eye-opening experience,” Hall said.  “We have come so far but we still have so many more barriers to break through. I am truly grateful to have had this wonderful experience.”  
 
The Big Ten Life Series allowed participants to engage and partake in an immersive educational experience with individuals and landmarks directly involved in the pivotal history of the Civil Rights movement.  
 
“Experiencing this trip not only deepened my understanding of my history, but also ignited a passion within me to contribute reshaping historical narratives and driving change,” Walker said.  
 
On the first day of the trip, participants visited Rosa Parks, Freedom Riders and Alabama State museums followed by a student-athlete panel and documentary, while ending with keynote speaker, Ms. Sheyann Webb-Christburg.  
 
“Knowledge is power, and history should be taught to this day,” Hicks said.  “The result of this trip gave me a deeper appreciation to those who came before me and made all the opportunities I have now possible.”

On day two, participants visited Selma. Beginning with a service project, participants contributed charitable efforts for children at First Baptist Church followed by marching from First Baptist Church across Edmund Pettus Bridge. The day concluded with tours of the Alabama Museum, the Civil Rights Memorial Center, and the Equal Justice Initiative Museum.  
 
“This journey illuminated the challenges we face and underscored the necessity for our generation to address and overcome the persistent barriers within our country,” Walker said.