The Collinsville High School Black Student Union (BSU) received the distinguished honor of being invited to serve as award presenters at the 2025 Gospel Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, which took place Saturday, September 6, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri.

This invitation marks a significant moment for the students of CHS, as it recognizes their dedication to cultural awareness, leadership and community engagement. The Gospel Music Hall of Fame, which celebrates the rich legacy of gospel music and honors the artists, musicians, and visionaries who have shaped the genre, serves as a platform for preserving African American history and storytelling through song.

“This was a tremendous honor for our students,” said JoAnna Kelly, sponsor of the CHS Black Student Union. “Gospel music is deeply rooted in the African American experience, often serving as a vessel for passing down stories of struggle, resilience and hope. To have our students participate in this historic event not only validates their efforts but also connects them with a broader cultural legacy.”

The CHS Black Student Union, known for its commitment to uplifting Black voices and promoting historical and cultural education, joined a lineup of esteemed guests and artists during the induction ceremony. The students presented awards to some of gospel music’s most iconic contributors in a celebration that drew attention from across the nation.

“This experience was incredibly meaningful for our students,” said JoAnna Kelly, advisor of the Black Student Union. “Being part of such a historic ceremony deepened their appreciation for gospel music’s cultural impact and showed them the power of their own voices in continuing this rich legacy.”

The Black Student Union members expressed enthusiasm and gratitude for the chance to engage with influential figures in gospel music and to represent their school on such an important stage.