How often do college students have open, judgment-free conversations about sexual health? Not often, but on Tuesday evening, Jan. 14 at 6 p.m., Alabama State University students gathered for RefresHER, an event aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding sexual health education and HIV prevention with open conversations about the topic.
Hosted by Five Horizons, Five Horizons Ambassadors and ViiV Healthcare’s community liaison Tony Billups, the event was held in collaboration with the University Programs and Activities Board (UPAAB) and the university’s Royal Court.
The event took place inside the John Garrick Hardy Center Ballroom, where attendees received free HIV and STI testing, food and networking opportunities, students also created vision boards during break sessions, fostering engagement and discussion.
Five Horizons Health Services, a nonprofit based in Montgomery, provides affordable and accessible sexual health services. Zoie Anderson, an education outreach coordinator at Five Horizons Health Services, spoke on HIV prevention strategies and education, emphasizing the importance of testing.

“Being able to come here and impact all these young ladies is something I love to do,” she said. “HIV and STIs are rocking our communities heavily, especially Black women. If we continue to have events like these and continue to do our part, I believe that we can end this epidemic by 2030,” Anderson added.
She urged students to prioritize their health. Anderson said, “If you’re active, just go get tested. It’s no reason to not go get tested. You should be more afraid of not getting tested than getting tested.”
Five Horizons Linkage Coordinator Faith Barron provided insights on behavioral health and handling peer pressure, while Carlavia Edwards, a disease intervention specialist, discussed the Alabama Department of Public Health’s (ADHP) fast-track clinic process.
“Don’t be afraid to say no,” Barron said. “At the end of every day, no means no. It’s important to you and your health to be able to know when to say no and have the courage to do so.”
Attendees praised the event for its impact and informative discussions.
“This event is so impactful. There are so many things I learned today that I didn’t know about,” said Nwanekezi Favour, a freshman majoring in pre-health biology. “Seeing that one of the speakers is living with HIV for so long proves that you don’t have to die once you have it. There’s help out there and empowering people just like him.”
Excellent Aromolaran, a freshman psychology major, appreciated the positive approach to discussions.
“It’s been amazing so far,” she said. “I really like how they taught us to speak about HIV and other things in a positive way instead of being degrading.”
Students also highlighted the importance of awareness and education.
Jada Smith, a sophomore majoring in forensic biology said, “I really enjoyed all of the speakers. They really highlighted how it doesn’t matter how much you trust a person or the duration of your relationship, you both need to be getting tested regularly. It’s important that we provide a space for Black women to share and encourage them so that they don’t feel ashamed. Their testimony could save someone’s life.”
Miss Senior Faith Blackwell, a senior majoring in vocal performance, emphasized the need for open conversations about sexual health.
“For our generation, I’ve noticed that having intercourse is such a touchy topic, but it needs to be discussed. We need to educate ourselves on what’s safe, proper aftercare and different locations that could help us at an affordable price.” Blackwell added, “At the end of the day, put yourself first. Whether it’s sexually, mentally, emotionally, put yourself and your health first.”
Miss Junior Jaleah Jackson, a junior psychology major, stressed vigilance.
“Women’s health is so important! And it’s important for us to be vigilant about what’s going on out here and how to protect ourselves,” she said. “Protect yourself! Get tested regularly and make sure your partner does the same and everything is transparent.”