signing off, one last time🫡
it's been a pleasure (also wildcat iftar this friday!)
Assalamu Alaikum!
As I am writing this, I reflect back on this whole experience of being McSA Co-President—truly what an honor and privilege it has been to serve this community.
I can say with confidence that this will be one of my most memorable years. I will carry on with me the lessons I learned in this short time for the rest of my life.
That all being said, the McSA machine never stops running. In fact, our community continues to grow and get stronger every year. Case in point:
These guys will take over next, and I am quite assured that the next year will be better than the last. They all have taken responsibility within their respective roles, even before their term has begun. So excited for what’s to come!
McSA is the best thing that has happened to me at Northwestern. The unique thing about it, in my opinion, is the low barrier-to-entry. Anyone can come to any event and feel a sense of belonging. Every time I spot a Muslim on campus, I feel a sense of safety and security, knowing that we are here to protect and grow with each other. I also feel a sense of pride in my heart, because I can appreciatively say that I am a part of a community made up of the best people.
Thank you, McSA.
Now that you’ve sat through my sappy monologue, let’s dive into the real meat of what’s in store for you.
Wildcat Iftar
The big one. The best one. The one for the books.
I want you to be stressed out this week trying to figure out what to wear (i’m jk). But put on your best fit. Bring your A-game. We love to see it.
Eid Toy Drive!!!!!
And you can still donate until March 14th! We have been collecting toys for about a week now, but we are still under our total toy goal. Please consider donating! It just takes a second to grab a gift from target, and your reward will be multiplied during this holy month.
If you’re not able to get a toy, you can also venmo @NUMCSA or Zelle 914-426-7041, and we will purchase one your behalf.
May Allah reward your Sadaqah!
First 10 Days Ramadan Recap
It’s always the best time of the year. Here’s what we’ve been up these first 10 days:
We’ve also had 3 community iftars so far! I have no idea who has photos of them! Please send me more Ramadan photos!
This Program Was Made Possible By Viewers Like You
Thank you to everyone who read my newsletters! I tried my best to incorporate as much of my personal voice into it to make it engaging and not a drag of updates. I never felt very confident as a writer, but the comments I would receive from you all about the newsletter would make my day and drive me to keep going.
I hate to be oversentimental, but there are many many many people in particular who sponsored my growth and kept my sanity throughout all of this, and it’s important to me that they be recognized. Please make your sincerest dua’as for all these people!
Fahad Bhai and Nadwah Bhabi. The peace of mind they provided to, not just myself, but to everyone in this community is paramount. They offer themselves as a beacon of guidance with genuine love and care for Muslims. I personally cannot imagine having to deal with a bunch of undergrads and their problems (well I can, but it is different), but they never fail to be understanding. Best landlords ever.
My roommates, Mustafa and Zayn. Mustafa is my senior advisor. Having been Co-President himself, he is one of the few people that I could vent to—who could understand my problems on personal level while also giving his own guidance. He made me feel confident in myself. Zayn gave me a sense of internal tranquility like that of an older brother. He drops these Master Oogway-level pieces of advice that I carry with me through every action. And I could ALWAYS count on his support, a level of loyalty that you have only with family.
THE BOARD. Genuinely could not have asked for a better crew. As an LOC major(😹), I can tell you that the most important factor to success are the people. Our greatest strength was being aligned on every decision. They have dealt with Ray’s and my constant pestering to get tasks done, and they always deliver without complaint. Future McSA Hall of Fame inductees: Kareem Shahbandar (Executive VP), Faris Eltayib (Admin VP), Nusayba Abdullah (Admin VP), Salada Abdullahi (Treasurer), Aysha Menk (Secretary), Mohamed Eltayib (Director of External Relations), Nahla Habona (Director of Public Relations), Sami Khan (ASG Senator).
Last, but certainly not least, the Northwestern Muslim community. You all are the reason why any of this exists, why any of it happens. I cherish the relationship I have with each one of you, please never think that you are unnoticed. Keep being amazing.
Hadith of the Week
Al-Nu’man ibn Bashir reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The parable of the believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body. When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever.” Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 6011
Believers are one body in compassion.
Final McSA Spotlight: Rayyana Hassan
Rayyana is my rock.
I could not have done nearly as much as I did without her support. Her unflinching resolve and resilient attitude has permanently changed my DNA for the better. It goes without saying that she is the backbone of McSA. If only you all knew how much of herself Rayyana gives to making what happens, happen. It is unreal.
I still remember when Rayyana and I first met to discuss the possibility of being Co-Presidents. We had this vision of bringing the best possible experience to Muslims at Northwestern. And she has lived and breathed on delivering that mission to this community. Literally from the moment we were elected, to now, as I write this, she is sending messages in the GroupMe about Wildcat Iftar.
There could not have been a better person to share this experience with, and I am grateful to her for making me a better person and a better Muslim.
Best Co-Prez Ever.
Other Info:
Ramadan 2025 Logistics (Taraweeh timings, Plex Iftars, etc.)
Follow us on insta @numcsa for the latest updates
If you have any questions or concerns, dm us on our insta or email us at numcsa@gmail.com
May Allah accept your fasting and prayers and bless you with joy and prosperity this Ramadan!
Signing off one last time,
BarakAllah Fi Kum,
Haneef Usmani
McSA Co-President ‘2024-2025