The National Association of Black Journalists has made a comeback at UTM.

NABJ made its first appearance at UTM in 2001, but after two years, it dwindled away from lack of participation.

But a determined communications major and a willing professor helped revive the club.

Kenetra Robertson, president of NABJ, helped spearhead efforts to bring the club back, and Professor Dorotha Norton agreed to serve as faculty adviser.

NABJ was founded by 44 men and women in 1975 in Washington, D.C. The purpose of NABJ was to give African-American professionals and students an opportunity to express their feelings, wants and desires among each other. The association functions on a six-point value system, the most important tenet being the strengthening of ties among black journalists.”

President Kenetra Robertson is pleased with the renaissance of NABJ at UTM.

“I’m just glad to have people behind me who are hard-working, dedicated and loyal to what we are trying to do, not only here at UTM but the national cause as well,” Robertson said.

In less than a semester on campus, NABJ has completed two fundraisers for their organization, including taking up donations at Homecoming and holding a bake sale at the latest Skyhawk football game. NABJ plans on holding another bake sale at the Nov. 17 home game.

NABJ officers include Chris Turner, Ashley Hodges and India Dean. “I am glad to be a part of something that I can believe in, and working with people that are focused on the goals at hands is a plus as well,” said Treasurer India Dean.

Although NABJ’s namesake targets African-American students, the organizations leaders say it is open to everyone, and they encourage membership.

Meetings are at 12:20 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the Gooch Communications Reading Room.

“We’re glad to get a foot on campus, but now we have to do something to bring our membership up and make the campus aware of what we do,” Robertson said.