Introducing Trinity’s Class of 2025: Destiny Benjamin

Destiny Benjamin (she/her) is a senior from South Carolina majoring in African & African American Studies and minoring in Political Science and Sociology. During her time at Duke, Benjamin served as Chief of Staff of the Black Women’s Union and Co-Treasurer for United in Praise Gospel Choir. She is a student ambassador for the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture and for the AAAS Department of Trinity College, as well as a member of the Advocacy & Black Caucus Committee of the Black Student Alliance.

In 2025, her commitment to diversity was recognized with the Community Impact Award from Duke Women’s Center and the Distinguished Leadership Award from Duke Student Involvement and Leadership.

With support from a Mellon Mays Fellowship, her undergrad research focused on the impacts of the carceral system on high school students and community members in small, predominantly Black towns. 

Beyond Duke, Benjamin is also a Justice League Fellow for EmancipateNC in Durham. She founded the blog and organization What’s Our Destiny? where she writes about the challenges and successes of the Black community in the past and present, and how that pertains to Black futures, which recognizes her commitment to diversity.

We asked Benjamin about some of the highlights of her Duke undergraduate experience and the years she spent in Durham. 

What is one of your fondest memories as an undergraduate student at Duke? 

All of my fondest memories as an undergraduate student have occurred in the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture. From meeting my best friends, building a support system and community with the staff, and cultivating new opportunities, every day at The Lou is a day full of memories. 

What piece of advice would you give to your 17-year-old self? 

I would tell my 17-year-old self that stress isn’t real. Everything always works out exactly as intended and every “failure” that occurs is a necessary redirection. I refuse to feel stress. 

Is there someone at Duke who made a positive impact on your academic life? 

Dr. Candis Watts Smith has made a positive impact on my academic life and Duke career at-large. She was my professor during my freshman and sophomore years, Mellon Mays advisor in my junior and senior years, a member of my thesis committee, and an all-around great person. Dr. Smith has consistently supported my academic endeavors and is a cherished mentor in my Duke community.

What is something you love about Durham? 

I love Durham’s rich Black history and the diversity of its community. In my years at Duke, I’ve enjoyed supporting Black-owned businesses in the area, attending church at The River, and engaging with organizations working to eradicate systemic issues. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I’m going to graduate school to get my Ph.D. in Black Studies.