Lincoln University Strada Scholars Explore African Heritage During Educational Summit in Ghana

Three Lincoln University Strada Scholars traveled to Ghana for the African Diaspora Education Summit to explore their ancestral heritage. From left, Korriana Williams '27, artist Kwame Akoto-Bamfo, Re’Nayjah Burton '27 and Torron Willis Jr. '26 at the Nyinkyim Museum.

Three Lincoln University of Missouri students traveled to Ghana, West Africa, to explore their ancestral heritage, engage in cultural exchanges and deepen their understanding of African history during the African Diaspora Education Summit, held Sept. 23-Oct. 3, 2026.

Lincoln University Strada Scholars Korriana Williams (Class of 2027), Re’Nayjah Birton (Class of 2027) and Torron Willis Jr. (Class of 2026) participated in the international educational experience, made possible through funding from the Strada Education Foundation. For all three scholars, the trip marked their first international travel experience.

Korianna Williams '27 on the opening day of the education summit.

During their time in Ghana, the students visited historic and culturally significant sites in Accra and Cape Coast, including Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the W.E.B. Du Bois Memorial Centre, the National Museum of Ghana, the University of Ghana, Accra Technical University, Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River Park, Cape Coast Castle’s historic dungeons and the Nyinkyim Museum.

In addition to visiting historic landmarks, the scholars participated in discussions about incorporating African history, culture and traditions into educational experiences. They also connected with students from the California Community College system, exchanging perspectives on education, cultural identity and the shared experiences of the African diaspora. 

"My trip to Ghana taught me so much about myself, my ancestors and what they went through." Korianna Williams said. "It also opened my eyes to how things operate there and made me appreciate the little things I sometimes take for granted as a woman in America, like access to hygiene products and education. Most importantly, the experience made me feel more connected to my roots and accepted in a way I can’t fully explain. Even though I may not know exactly where I come from, Ghana gave me a sense of belonging, connection and welcome that I’ll always carry with me."

A memorable part of the journey was the opportunity for each scholar to receive a traditional Ghanaian name, creating a personal connection to the culture and heritage they had traveled thousands of miles to explore.

Danisha Williams, Ed.D., Lincoln University executive director of enrollment management and Title IX coordinator; Torron Willis Jr., ’26; Korriana Williams, ’27; Re’Nayjah Burton, ’27; and Takara Taylor, Lincoln University assistant director of admissions, at the University of Ghana.

The Lincoln University Strada Scholars Program recognizes students for their outstanding academic achievements in high school. Through support from the Strada Education Foundation, selected scholars receive annual academic scholarships, internship support and leadership development funding to enhance their educational experiences and prepare them for future success.

The international opportunity reflects Lincoln University’s commitment to providing educational experiences beyond the classroom, broadening students’ global perspectives and strengthening their understanding of history, identity and leadership.

Korriana Williams '27, Re’Nayjah Burton '27 and Torron Willis Jr. '26 before a conference meet-and-greet event.

The Lincoln University Strada Scholars expressed gratitude to the Strada Education Foundation for making the experience possible. The students returned to campus with a deeper appreciation for their ancestral roots, international connections and knowledge they can draw on in their personal and academic journeys.

For these three Blue Tigers, the journey to Ghana offered an opportunity to connect with their past, expand their worldviews and return with new perspectives on their futures.