The Muslim Student Association (MSA) has long been part of the Guilford College community. The organization centers on sharing the Muslim faith and fostering unity among students, according to MSA Vice President Inaya Ejaz.
After a 10-year hiatus, students from the Early College at Guilford worked to revive the club over the past two years. They noticed a lack of Muslim representation both at the Early College and at Guilford and wanted to create a space for open connection among students with similar cultural and religious backgrounds. What began as a small initiative to build community has now become an active organization that hosts cultural and interfaith events throughout the year.
Currently, MSA is led by Early College junior Zain Khan. The group’s mission is to unite Muslim students at Guilford while sharing their culture and ensuring their traditions stay alive. To support this goal, MSA collaborates with Muslim associations at Guilford Technical Community College and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, strengthening ties among Muslim students across Greensboro.
With more than 20 active members, MSA continues to expand its outreach through annual events. This past Ramadan, the club hosted an iftar — the evening meal that marks the end of the daily fast — inviting students of all faiths to join. The event included an explanation of the holiday’s significance, prayers and a variety of foods that created a welcoming, inclusive environment.
“When we were praying, we figured non-Muslims wouldn’t feel comfortable joining us, so we had to think about what they could do in the meantime,” Khan said. “We wanted everyone to feel included.”
To encourage interfaith dialogue, the event also featured speakers from different backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and understanding.
Early College junior Udaya Sri Parthiban, who attended as a non-Muslim, said she appreciated the group’s respect and openness.
“They were eager to learn about Hinduism,” she said. “My views on God were respected, and I felt comfortable sharing them. I could learn about a Muslim holiday and about Islam without feeling uncomfortable.”
Beyond iftar gatherings, MSA participates in Friday prayers as well as local Muslim conferences and community events. Meetings are typically held a few times a month and focus on planning, discussion of Islamic values and sharing personal interpretations of faith. MSA’s conversations often make Islamic principles accessible to both lifelong Muslims and newcomers who are simply interested in learning more.
The club also aims to bridge the gap between Muslims and people of other faiths by hosting interfaith conversations and collaborative events. These initiatives promote understanding and inclusivity while helping students connect across different cultural backgrounds.
In alignment with Guilford College’s “Uniquely Guilford” motto, MSA plays a key role in diversifying campus life and strengthening the sense of community. Through cultural education, open dialogue and outreach efforts — including participation in anti-bullying initiatives — the organization embodies Guilford’s commitment to inclusion and respect for all.
By sharing their faith and traditions, MSA members continue to enrich the Guilford College experience. Their work not only celebrates Muslim culture but also fosters unity, curiosity and understanding across campus.
Students interested in learning more about the Muslim Student Association or Muslim culture can contact Zain Khan at [email protected] for more information.
