12 Celebrity Children Who Have Gone To An HBCU

HBCUs have seen an uptick enrollment recently and some celebrity children are to thank for that. Here are 12 celebrity children who have gone to an HBCU!

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This past year many historically black colleges or universities (HBCUs) saw a significant increase in enrollment. According to PBS News Hour, “applications are up nearly 30% at many of these schools and top-tier HBCUs are increasingly becoming the first choice for some of the most sought-after students.” In the fall, Virginia State University welcomed its largest group of students in more than three decades, and enrollment at Morehouse College went up over 60% in 2020 from the previous year.

It’s no doubt that HBCU enrollment and visibility have been on the rise as many students of color are looking for a safe space to go to college, which HBCUs provide. Children of celebrities are no different, and many have chosen to attend HBCUs. Because of their parents, they probably have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to college, so their choice to attend an HBCU is significant. Not only does this give the universities good exposure, but it also sends a message that one can get the same quality education at an HBCU as at other schools. In turn, helps with enrollment as well.

Here are 12 celebrity children who have gone to an HBCU!

Zahara Jolie-Pitt, Spelman College

Angelina Jolie and Zahara Jolie-Pitt hang out by a pop-up shop at Spelman College’s homecoming weekend.
Credit: Twitter/imnikkihea

The daughter of superstars Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt entered Spelman as a freshman in the fall of 2022. Her mom first shared the news on Instagram, sharing a photo of Zahara and other students with the caption: “Zahara with her Spelman sisters! Congratulations to all new students starting this year. A very special place and an honor to have a family member as a new Spelman girl.” Jolie also kept a low profile while joining her daughter during homecoming back in October.

Omoye Assata Lynn, Howard University

Credit: Common Instagram

The daughter of rapper and actor Common, Omoye graduated from Howard University’s law program in May. Common was a proud dad posting a montage of the momentous occasion to Instagram with the caption: “There are no words to describe how proud I am! Finishing Law School at Howard University in the 3 years is pretty AMAZING! Congrats to my daughter and all the graduates of 2022. Now go out in the world and be great!”

Shaqir O’Neal, Texas Southern University

Credit: Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP

The youngest son of NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal and ex-wife Shaunie Henderson committed to play Division 1 basketball at Texas Southern University in May 2021. Going to an HBCU was an intentional choice for Shaqir as he wanted to bring more awareness to them. “I want to change the narrative and culture and do something new,” he said.

D’essense Smiley, Tennessee State University

Comedian and radio personality Rickey Smiley’s daughter D’essense graduated from Tennessee State University with a Communications degree in May 2021. Smiley posted of video of him cheering for his daughter on graduation day, with the caption: “My daughter D’essense aka RootyPooh graduated from Tennessee State University today!!!!!! Proud Dad!!!!!!!”

Krista Campbell, Spelman College

Credit: Erica Campbell Instagram

The daughter of Gospel music superstars Warryn and Erica Campbell, Krista entered Spelman College in the fall of 2022. In August, Warryn and Erica along with their two younger children drove from California to Atlanta to move their daughter in. Erica posted a video documenting the move, saying “I’m so proud and nervous.. God I’m gonna miss my girl, my singer my firstborn the BG (big girl).”

Trillian Wood-Smith, Lincoln University

Busta Rhymes with his kids [L – R]: Trillian, T’Khi, T’ziah

Trillian (to the far left), the youngest son of rapper Busta Rhymes attends Lincoln University of Pennsylvania. He graduated high school in 2019 and posted a picture on Instagram with the caption, “Lincoln University of PA, see you soon..” His dad was very proud of him and also congratulated him on Instagram, saying, “Another young King of mine, off to begin the next chapter.”  The proud dad wrote added “The World is Yours young King. #LincolnUniversity.”

Skyler Jordan, Alcorn State University

Credit: Montell Jordan Instagram

The son of singer Montell Jordan, Skyler accepted a football scholarship to Alcorn State University in 2021. He plays cornerback and was the first football player from his high school to sign with an NCAA Division I football team, according to the Gwinnett Daily Post. On signing day, Skyler tweeted that he “can’t wait to rep #HBCU legacy and play in the #SWAC.”

Karma Bridges, Spelman College

Credit: Ludacris Instagram

The eldest daughter of rapper and actor Ludacris, Karma attends Spelman College. Back in 2020, she shared her excitement on Instagram posting pictures of herself with a Spelman shirt and balloons bearing the school colors and thanking everyone who helped her on her journey. “All of the Spelmanites in my life are screaming with joy!” she captioned the photo. “I am proud to announce that I will be attending the illustrious Spelman College and I am blessed to continue in the legacy of my mother.” Karma also serves as the inspiration for Ludacris’ animated children’s show, “Karma’s World.”

Destin Tucker, Morehouse College

Credit: Destin Tucker Instagram (@mr.tvck)

Comedian and actor Chris Tucker’s son, Destin graduated from Morehouse College in 2021. Destin earned his degree in Cinema, Television, and Emerging Media Studies, and is a proud Morehouse man. “It has truly been a blessing to attend the historic Morehouse College. Over these past 4 years, I have absorbed valuable life lessons about navigating through this world as a black man,” he shared in an Instagram post.

Taylor Ayanna Crawford, Howard University

Credit: Yolanda Adams Instagram

The daughter of gospel singer Yolanda Adams graduated from Howard University in 2022. She graduated magna cum laude from The Chadwick Boseman College of Fine Arts and is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She’s expected to follow in her mother’s footsteps and break into the entertainment industry as she captioned her graduation photos “From Howard to Hollywood” on Instagram.

Brittany Atkins, Hampton University

Brittany, the daughter of rapper Ja Rule graduated from Hampton University in 2018. She entered Hampton in 2013 as a Strategic Communications major, she now works as a screenwriter and continues to rep her alma mater.

Nathan Anderson, Howard University

Nathan, the son of actor Anthony Anderson is a Howard graduate. His acceptance into the school inspired his father to finish his degree, which he started 30 years ago. Nathan is now following in his father’s footsteps and getting into acting. You can catch him on the new Bounce Original Series Act Your Age.

Howard Receives $90M to Lead Military Research Center

Howard University has been awarded a $90 million Pentagon contract for research development, making it the first HBCU to serve as a university-affiliated research center (UARC.)

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Howard University makes history as the first historically Black college or university to lead a University Affiliated Research Center

On Monday, Howard University announced that it has been awarded a $90 million Pentagon contract for research development, making it the first HBCU to serve as a university-affiliated research center (UARC.)

The university will become the 15th UARC in the country, funded by the U.S. Air Force and the Department of Defense. 

According to the United States Space Force, the centers are responsible for providing dedicated facilities and sharing space with Defense Department officials and industrial participants to conduct basic, applied, and technology demonstration research. 

The research center is focused on tactical autonomy. 

“Responsibly used autonomous systems make our military faster, smarter and stronger,” said U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III. “They can identify threats to our troops in real time, and they can help our technical crews conduct maintenance more safely.” And they can equip our commanders with the best available information to make life and death decisions.” 

According to the military, tactical autonomy is defined as “autonomous systems acting with delegated and bounded authority of humans in support of tactical, short-term actions associated with a longer-term strategic vision.”

Austin said that the new research center will help to protect the men and women who serve the nation’s armed forces.

According to Howard president Wayne A. I. Frederick, this center is the first of its kind.

“None of the other UARCs are providing this type (tactical autonomy) of research to the Department of Defense at present, and so this center has the potential to close that gap and be at the forefront of progressive science and technology efforts,” he said.

Howard University was chosen to lead a consortium of universities that will participate in the newest UARC. Those universities include Jackson State University, Tuskegee University, Hampton University, Bowie State University, Norfolk State University, Delaware State University, Florida Memorial University, and Tougaloo College. 

Austin said that the Defense Department is committed to investing in HBCUs.

“America is at its best when we knock down barriers, when we search for great ideas wherever they reside and when we draw on the full talents of the American people — all of the American people,” Austin said. “So to Howard and the other schools in the consortium, thank you for lifting up the next generation. Thank you for all that you do for our outstanding men and women in uniform. And thank you for making our democracy more secure.”

Howard University will receive $12 million per year for five years to fund research, faculty, and students.

Students at Bethune Cookman Protest School Conditions Amid Ed Reed Departure

Just days after former NFL star Ed Reed announced that he would no longer be going forward with his position as head coach at Bethune Cookman University, students at the school are protesting and calling for new leadership.

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Just days after former NFL star Ed Reed announced that he would no longer be going forward with his position as head coach at Bethune Cookman University, students at the school are protesting and calling for new leadership.

On Monday, students gathered in front of White Hall with signs to protest the conditions at the B-CU.

In a story post to an Instagram account created to highlight the protest, students posted a photo of a document that detailed the goals of the protest which made it clear that the issue is “deeper than Ed Reed.”

B-CU student protesting at the “A Call For New Leadership” student protest. Credit: @branden_mc5

In the document, it said that their main issue is with the Board of Trustees, and that “Ed Reed is not the reason, but the catalyst.”

Ed Reed made headlines last week when he took to Instagram live to criticize the conditions at B-CU, complaining about the amount of trash he encountered on campus and within the football facilities. Although he later apologized, the university ultimately decided to part ways with him and not proceed with contract negotiations.

Students are now speaking up and saying that “Ed Reed was right.”

For years the voices of students have been silenced. I stand in solidarity with students of Bethune-Cookman University in efforts to raise awareness for the changes in which need to be brought to our university. This isn’t just about coach Reed. Coach Reed has helped us shine a light towards the institution to bring forth ACCOUNTABILITY to our staff and administration.

– Tyler Kelly, The 12th Mister Bethune-Cookman University

In their “A Call For New Leadership Protest,” students are making a call to action for campus issues. Issues such as “poor housing conditions, financial issues, poor usage of funds, lack of professionalism, student life, and poor leadership at the administration level,” as listed in the document posted to Instagram stories.

In videos posted to @bcu_protest‘s story, students can be heard shouting “Hey hey ho ho, the Board of Trustees has got to go.” They also held signs that quoted the university’s founder, Mary McLeod Bethune, that said “Forgiving is not about forgetting” and “#WhatWouldMaryDo.”

According to FOX35, students complained of rats in the dorms and the lack of hot water there. Several said they leave the windows open year-round in their rooms because there’s no AC. One student told the news outlet that she ended up in the hospital due to mold in her dorm.

“We’re constantly pouring money into this institution, and we feel like it’s not being poured back into us,” a senior at Bethune-Cookman told FOX 35. “We’re not seeing change. They just keep giving us false promises.”

Bethune-Cookman has not yet released a statement responding to the student protest.

Ed Reed Will No Longer Coach at Bethune Cookman

Ed Reed is out as coach at Bethune-Cookman University just 25 days after he was hired to lead the football program.

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Ed Reed is out as coach at Bethune-Cookman University just 25 days after he was hired to lead the football program.

The former NFL star announced on Saturday, via Twitter, that he and the university could not come to a contract agreement.

“Bethune-Cookman University has been working with my legal team to craft contract terms with the language and resources we knew were needed to build a successful football program,” Reed said in a statement. “It’s my desire to not only coach football, but to be an agent of change that most people just talk about being. However, after weeks of negotiations I’ve been informed that the University won’t be ratifying my contract and won’t make good on the agreement we had in principle, which had provisions and resources best needed to support the student athletes.

https://twitter.com/TwentyER/status/1616829582325460992

Reed expressed his disappointment in not going forward with the position.

“I was committed to coaching and cultivating a relationship with the University, Players, Community and the Fans,” he said. “It’s extremely disappointing this won’t be happening.”

Reed also took to Instagram to share a passionate video of him speaking with players about his departure. He revealed that he did not want to leave the position but is being “forced” out by the administration and the athletic director, Reggie Theus.

“I don’t want to leave…but there are some corrupt people in this world, some evil people that don’t care about kids like I do,” Reed said in the video.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CnrwDTtpT9D/

“My vision for change is probably moving too fast for a lot of people. I’m not withdrawing my name…they don’t want me here, they do not want me here because I tell the truth,” he said.

Reed’s departure comes after he went live on Instagram last week to criticize the conditions at B-CU and in his office. Reed later issued an apology for his comments saying that he fell victim “while engaging with antagonists on social media,” and that his passion got the better of him.

On Saturday, the school released a statement announcing that they are conducting a national search to find a permanent replacement.

 The Bethune-Cookman official press release:

Bethune-Cookman has announced that it has decided not to proceed with contract negotiations with Ed Reed to become the next head football coach at B-CU.

After undergoing a detailed assessment and review of the state of our football program, we have determined that it is in the best interest of our university, athletics program, and football student-athletes to reopen the search and identify the next leader of Bethune-Cookman Wildcats Football.

Bethune-Cookman University was founded with core guiding principles centered around integrity, accountability, and mutual respect for others.  These guiding principles have and will continue to weigh heavily on all decisions made that impact our university.

While we appreciated the initial interest in our football program displayed by Mr. Reed during the course of recent weeks, we are also mindful of the qualities and attributes that must be exhibited by our institutional personnel during what has been uniquely challenging times for our campus as we recover from the impact of two hurricanes during this past fall semester.

We remain steadfast and committed to building a championship caliber football program that excels on the field, inside the classroom, and within our local community.

Our university community has placed the upmost trust and faith in us to continue to advance our institution and we will continue to strive to live up to the high standards that have been set for all individuals affiliated with our illustrious university.

A national search to fill the football head coach position at B-CU has resumed as the university seeks to identify a permanent replacement in the coming days.

Memphis Creates $1M Scholarship Fund For Prospective HBCU Students

The Memphis City Council has created a $1 million scholarship fund for students from Memphis and Shelby County planning to attend a HBCU.

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The Memphis City Council announced Wednesday that it has created a $1 million scholarship fund for students from Memphis and Shelby County planning to attend a historically Black college or university (HBCU).

According to a news release, the goal is to help high school graduates who need financial support to continue their education.

The Memphis City Council HBCU Fund offers $1 million in scholarships to HBCUs, to be split evenly between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years. There will be 100 scholarships that range from $2,500 to $15,000 awarded this round.

Memphis City Council chairman and Howard University alumnus Martavius Jones helped create the fund.

“The Memphis City Council recognizes the financial hardship that students and families experience in their efforts to pay for a college education,” said Jones in a news release.

“As a graduate of an HBCU, I understand how valuable these particular institutions are for developing young people so that they are able to return to the City of Memphis and make a lasting, positive impact in their community.”

According to Action News 5, a volunteer committee selected by the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, composed of a group of community leaders who are HBCU graduates, will review all application submissions and select all recipients.

In order to qualify for the scholarship, students must have graduated or will graduate from a high school in Memphis or Shelby County.

The application process started Jan. 17 and ends on March 31. It can be found at cfgm.org/scholarships.

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Lincoln University of Missouri Golf Program Receives $100,000 from Gracious Donor

The golf program at Lincoln University of Missouri is getting a major upgrade thanks to a $100,000 donation from The Kwame Foundation.

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The golf program at Lincoln University of Missouri is getting a major upgrade thanks to a $100,000 donation from The Kwame Foundation.

To commemorate the donation the Board of Curators renamed the campus golf center The Kwame Foundation Golf Center.

The university hosted an official unveiling for the center on Tuesday.

Credit: Lincoln University of Missouri Athletics

“We could not be more excited to commemorate the Kwame Foundation’s historic commitment to the only HBCU men’s and women’s golf programs in the state of Missouri,” Kevin Wilson, Lincoln University’s vice president for advancement, athletics, and campus recreation, said in a statement.

“Similar to emerging groups of philanthropists across the country, the Kwame Foundation is passionate about providing our students with access to the game of golf and equipping them with the tools to compete with anyone,” Wilson added.

The Kwame Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Kwame Building Group, which supports various education and mentorship-focused organizations. In addition to university donations, the foundation endows scholarships for minority and first-generation college students to enter higher learning.

The donation will be spread out over the next five years to “extensively renovate” the golf center.

This includes two interactive golf simulators, improved flooring, lockers for golfers, and other equipment, according to the university.

Wilson said the university has already received more than $25,000 from the donation, which was used to install two golf bays, lockers, two televisions, and state-of-the-art software.

The remaining funds will be used to provide the golf teams transportation to tournaments, uniforms, and equipment as needs develop.

“Golf is one of the most expensive programs to sponsor in the country, that’s why you don’t see a lot of minorities participating,” Wilson said. “So it’s big for us.”

Lincoln University golf director Kortland Ware said he’s grateful to the Kwame Foundation and their desire to see progress and competitive culture in HBCU golf.

Paine College Partners With Leading Georgia Medical Research Institution

Paine College has entered a new partnership with the cannabis research institution Botanical Sciences.

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During Paine College’s convocation on Wednesday, President Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones announced a new partnership with Botanical Sciences.

According to WJBF, Botanical Sciences is a leading institution in Georgia for cannabis research focused on improving the lives of Georgians with debilitating medical conditions. 

Jones said that the new partnership is a part of a five-point growth plan for Paine College, that includes an emphasis on increasing enrollment, additional scholarships, faculty development, improving student housing…and the expansion of new partnerships.

“A collaborative partnership was approved by the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission between Botanical Sciences and Paine College,” Dr. Jones said in her address.

Botanical Sciences is located in Glenville, Georgia and has recently received one of the large Grow licenses in the state.

Gary Long, CEO of Botanical Sciences told WJBF that the partnership will benefit both parties.

“We’re going to have needs as a growing business in the state of Georgia,” said Long. “They have a great student population that has a lot of the needs that we’re going to have as a business- they’re going to have students who can fulfill those needs. So, I think it’s going to be a great partnership.”

JSU Coach Tomekia Reed says Coaching at an HBCU is “not for the weak”

Jackson State University head women’s basketball coach Tomekia Reed gives insight on what it’s like coaching at an HBCU in recent tweets.

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Jackson State University head women’s basketball coach Tomekia Reed gives insight on what it’s like coaching at an HBCU in recent tweets.

Amid discussions about the challenges coaches at histocially Black colleges and universities face, two-time SWAC Coach of The Year, Tomekia Reed stepped in to set the record straight in a series of tweets on Wednesday.

“Coaching at an HBCU is not for the weak,” she wrote. “You’re going to fight battles internally and externally. And if your program experiences any type of success, it will be even harder. I chose to come back for the fight. To truly even the playing field and do something that’s never been done.”

Credit: WJTV

In four seasons as head coach, Tomekia Reed has led the Jacskon State women’s basketball team to three straight SWAC regular season titles and two straight SWAC tournament titles and NCAA appearances.

 “You have to earn stripes to speak publicly about this struggle. If you aren’t willing to roll up your sleeves, make a difference and demand others to respect us, not by words but by actions, then get out of the way. We got something to do! Our work here is bigger than us” she continued in another tweet.

Her comments come just days after new Bethune-Cookman head coach Ed Reed posted videos to social media ranting about the state of HBCUs and criticizing the conditions of the university.

“I really wish we had someone filming a documentary of what goes on behind closed doors,” she said. “The opportunities we provide to players someone else mishandled, the lives we save, the support we provide, the way we get these players ready for competition with limited resources. Its tough.”

In response to a user asking why HBCU coaches must settle for less, as well as questioning the living conditions at HBCUs, Reed responded: “I can’t speak on that. That’s not my experience or struggle. I didn’t accept a job that was a sacrifice or accept less than. I accepted an opportunity to stamp a place with already great winning tradition. With respect, if you don’t see it, try not to speak on it.”

TSU To Spend Historic $250M State Funding on Campus Renovations

Tennessee State University announced Monday that it has received $250 million in funding from the state to be used on campus-wide infrastructure updates.

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Tennessee State University announced Monday that it has received $250 million in funding from the state to be used on campus-wide infrastructure updates.

The funding comes after a report by the Office of Legislative Budget Analysis showed that Tennessee had underfunded TSU for decades and may owe the university between roughly $150-500 Million in back-funding.

According to the university, it is the largest one-time investment to a historically black university by a state.

TTSU president, student and university leaders, local lawmakers during an unveiling for historic $250 million campus-wide infrastructure projects. (Photo by Aaron Grayson) Credit: Tennessee State University Newsroom

TSU President Glenda Glover says the funding will cover expenses for upgrades to several academic and student services buildings.

“We are excited to share with you our plans for using this historic funding that will assist with TSU’s continued growth and campus development as we provide students with the best academic environment possible,” Glover said according to a news release. “This will allow us to enhance our campus for further sustainability as we continue our service to our students” she added.

Six buildings on campus will see improvements, including Boswell Science Complex, Davis Humanities Bldg., Elliott Hall, Jackson Hall, Harold Love, Sr. (LRC), and McCord Hall. “These were just six of the more challenging buildings that we have,” TSU Associate Vice President for Administration Curtis Johnson told WSMV4.

According to Nashville Now Next, Some of the major improvements include grounds enhancements, renovations to residence hall bathrooms, multiple roof replacements & repairs, and electrical, low voltage, and HVAC system upgrades. 

“This is a start of a multi-year project to make sure we invest in facilities at Tennessee State University. If we are providing a high-quality education, we must provide the facilities that are state of the art,”

– State Rep. Harold Love Jr., D-Nashville

Unfortunately, the funding will not go toward housing due to restrictions from the state.

TSU is currently facing a surge in enrollment resulting in a lack of housing for students on campus.

Frank Stevenson, TSU Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, told WSMV4 that the university has created a new project to help remedy the housing issue.

“We have a project now that will create 1,000 new beds on campus and we’re trying to move that as quickly as possible. We’re trying to get on the calendar for the State Building Commission. As soon as we get on that calendar, hopefully in the next month or so, we’ll move forward and expedite that project.”

The 1,000-bed housing project still has to be approved and could take a couple of years to do so.

According to, Nashville Now Next TSU is also in the process of developing another new residence hall.

NCAT Professor’s Classroom Dress Code Sparks Viral Debate

NCAT Professor Under Fire On Social Media For Classroom Dress Code that Bans Hoodies, Durags, and ‘Twerk Shorts.’

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NCAT Professor Under Fire On Social Media For Classroom Dress Code that Bans Hoodies, Durags, and ‘Twerk Shorts.’

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University had a rocky start to the new year when a snapshot of a computer science class syllabus sent Twitter into a frenzy thanks to what some users called an “antiblack” dress code policy.

The instructor, who Forbes confirmed is a Black male, listed a dress code for students to follow, which stated that “hoodies,” “bonnets,” “durags,” “coochie cutter shorts,” and “twerk shorts” — among other clothing items — were not allowed to be worn in his class.

The syllabus proclaimed that these articles of clothing are “NOT appropriate.” Underneath the list, the instructor stated, “If you wear it to bed or the club, don’t wear it to class.”

The list sparked a Twitter debate, with some agreeing with the professor’s stance and others criticizing it.

Some users believed the professor was just trying to prepare students for corporate America and professional environments, while others found the dress code and the language used to be offensive, racially insensitive, and disrespectful.

One user called the dress code policy “antiblack” and was shocked by the choice of language the instructor used to describe the clothing.

Another user argued that the dress code was “establishing decorum.”

“If their students are wearing such clothing, which inherently lacks taste and class… to class… and they are trying to mold students into scholars… not strippers…,” one user stated.

One user responded by saying that clothing has nothing to do with learning.

Among the list of banned attire, one thing many users agreed upon was the unnecessariness of banning hoodies.

Hoodies have become a racial stereotype and negative connotation linked to Black criminality.

Forbes noted that it is “important to remember that hoodies became emblematic of certain negative assumptions in America about Black youth after the tragic murder of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in 2012.”

Forbidding hoodies perpetuates the stereotype that the young Black person who wears them is in some way untrustworthy.

The university has not yet put out a statement regarding the professor’s dress code policy, but according to Forbes, the dress code has been taken off the syllabus.

DSU Students Demand Action From University in Anti-Sexual Assault Protest

On Wednesday, students at Delaware State University came together to protest against on campus sexual assault and demand action from the administration and the Delaware State University Police Department.

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On Wednesday, students at Delaware State University came together to protest against multiple cases of sexual assault happening on campus and demand action from the administration and the Delaware State University Police Department.

According to Delaware Online, hundreds protested in front of the public safety building and flooded a campus street, claiming experiences of excessive force from campus police officers, slow response times, and lack of response to student calls.

Students also said that many sexual assaults have gone unreported for fear they will not be taken seriously.

Delaware State University freshman Naomi Rivers of Ellendale attends a protest wearing red paint on her face because she said it’s symbolic of the helplessness she feels on the university’s campus, in the wake of multiple allegations of sexual assault on campus this school year on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023.
CREDIT: Andre Lamar/Delaware News Journal

DSU student, Bryanna Dawson reached out to HBCU Buzz to inform us about what the students have been facing at the university.

Dawson says that many men on campus have been harassing and being aggressive towards women and there are known rapists that are campus DJs, members of fraternities, and in student leadership positions.

She claims that the Delaware State Police Department has “thrown cases out and has been overheard laughing at some and victim blaming others.”

“We’re just trying to bring awareness to student rights,” a freshman named Micaih Lloyd told Delaware Online. “Not all students feel safe on campus.”

“We’re supposed to be at a place where we feel loved, where we feel at home,” Lloyd added. “Administration needs to make a change.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cnka2Zbp8Lq/

Delaware Online reports that Director of News Services Carlos Holmes stressed that all students have a right to free speech, and some university officials watched the afternoon demonstration themselves. Police Chief Bobby Cummings was one of those university officials and reportedly spoke to students gathered in front of his department.

“Bottom line is, students have expressed serious concerns about this,” Holmes said. “And the university is listening.”

According to Holmes, DSU president Tony Allen plans to meet formally with student organizers.

Holmes told Delaware Online that every sexual assault reported to campus police is investigated.

Police Chief Bobby Cummings claimed that trying to get information from witnesses is difficult and encouraged students to speak with campus police, to which he was met with shouts from students, telling him “Less conversation and more action.”

Students also said campus police have been slow in responding to incidents, and when they arrive, nothing results from reports.

From August 2022 to the day before the protest, Jan. 17, the university’s public crime log shows seven reports of rape on campus. Each case is marked as pending.

“I hope to see some changes and better safety measures,” DSU student, Delyah Fleury said. “They need to be truthful if the Police Department is understaffed. And if it is, they need to do something about it.”

Fleury added that communication between students, police, and administrators needs to be improved, as students only receive a text message when there is an incident. “There’s no big announcement, no meetings. We need to know what we can do to protect ourselves, There’s nobody we can go to. Who do we call?”

Students also demanded action from administrators and student government leaders.

DSU SGA released a statement on Friday addressing sexual assault on campus, ensuring that student safety is their “top priority.”

“It has come to the attention of the Student Government Association that there have been several cases of students feeling unsafe on campus. As the student’s voice our safety is a top priority and any problems regarding safety should be addressed immediately. The Resurrection administration wants to make it very clear that we are against any threats to the safety of our student body specifically in the form of sexual assault.”

– Delaware State Unviersity SGA statement regarding on-campus sexual assault

Other organizations on campus, like DSU G.I.V.E are raising awareness while providing students and survivors a safe space. This organization is dedicated to educating the community on Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, and Mental Health.

Many asked for details about what the administration is going to do to respond to reports of sexual assault and to improve safety.

“The university is ready to make any adjustments necessary,” Holmes told Delaware Online/The News Journal. “We just need to have more discussions.”

DSU students and parents have taken to Twitter to express their concerns.

https://twitter.com/GoodiesNGrip/status/1615787431017464083

Texas Southern Breaks Ground on New Strength and Conditioning Facility

On Friday, Texas Southern University broke ground on its new 6,000-square-foot strength and conditioning facility for the athletics department.

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On Friday, Texas Southern University broke ground on its new 6,000-square-foot strength and conditioning facility for the athletics department.

Vice President of Athletics at Texas Southern, Dr. Kevin Granger described the new facility as a “game changer” to FOX26.

According to Sports Illustrated, the Texas Southern upgrade will attract modern-day recruits for the school’s football, basketball, volleyball, track, and other sports programs.

HBCUGameDay reports that the facility will be built on the former basketball court directly behind the current Texas Southern Football Field House which is located near Alexander Durley Stadium.

The facility will include new weights, offices for strength and conditioning staff, space for physical therapy, an area for students to receive counseling services, and more. 

“In today’s society, most of the student-athletes, the first thing they look at is the facilities. We wanted to make sure we upgraded our facilities be able to provide the student-athletes of today and tomorrow with first-class facilities when they attend Texas Southern University,” Granger said.

“We’re a Division I program, and we need to start TO look and feel like a Division I program.”

Texas Southern president Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton credited head football coach Clarence McKinney for his role in advocating the need for a new training facility. “The coaches decided to lead in tough times, did the best with what they had, and spoke up for the student-athletes’ needs,” she said.

According to Sports Illustrated, administrators project the new building will be erected by the end of 2023 or the beginning of 2024.

Morris Brown College Receives Largest Grant In 20 Years

Morris Brown College is receiving $2.9 million in federal funds for academic programs and building restoration.

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Morris Brown College is receiving $2.9 million in federal funds for academic programs and building restoration.

During a Tuesday press conference, Dr. Kevin James, president of Morris Brown said the grant is the largest they have received in 20 years and will go towards the expansion of the school’s educational curriculum, updating buildings on campus, and creating programs to help graduates transition into the workforce.

“The future of Morris Brown College is very bright with these innovative programs for some very high demanding job areas that we anticipate being a pipeline for Black and Brown talent for the city of Atlanta, the state of Georgia, this region, and the country,” James said.

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) and Morris Brown President Dr. Kevin James. Credit: 11 Alive News

Georgia Sen. Jon Ossoff helped secure the grant funds alongside Senator Raphael Warnock and was present for the announcement of the grant.

“I recognize the extraordinary role that this institution has played in our state’s history, and even more importantly, the extraordinary importance of this institution in training the next generation to succeed, in providing an opportunity to access high-quality education for students across the metro region, across the state, across the southeast, and across the country,” Ossoff said during the press conference.

Ossoff noted that during his run for Senate, he made a commitment to President James to get Morris Brown back to where it once was.

“We are well on our way through this renaissance that President James has led,” Ossoff said.

According to 11 Alive News, Ossoff helped restore eligibility to student veterans last year and helped restore federal financial aid for current and future Morris Brown students in 2021.

Most of the money will go toward academic programs, including a center for teaching and learning. About $500,000 is earmarked for the restoration of Fountain Hall, James said.

“Fountain Hall is a historical landmark here at Morris Brown College built back in 1881 by former slaves,” James said. “Dr. W.E.B. DuBois’ office was on the third floor of that building, so we absolutely need Fountain Hall to be restored.”

Morris Brown recently regained accreditation after losing it for two decades. During that time, the school wasn’t eligible to receive federal financial aid.

According to Ebony, since James assumed leadership of Morris Brown in 2019, the school has grown from 20 students to more than 270 students and enrollment is expected to surpass over 400 students this upcoming fall semester.

XULA Partners with Ochsner Health To Create New Medical School

Xavier University of Louisiana has partnered with healthcare giant, Ochsner Health to create the first HBCU medical school in Louisiana.

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Xavier University of Louisiana has partnered with healthcare giant, Ochsner Health to create the first HBCU medical school in Louisiana.

Ochsner Health is southeast Louisiana’s largest nonprofit, academic, multi-specialty, healthcare delivery system. The two institutions have agreed to establish a joint College of Medicine.

According to the university, the new medical school will create a strong physician pipeline that addresses longstanding inequities within the healthcare system and aims to diversify the medical field.

To launch the College of Medicine, Ochsner and Xavier will form a nonprofit corporation, create a new curriculum, and use the facilities, personnel, and administrative processes of both institutions. A board of directors nominated by Ochsner and Xavier will govern the new College of Medicine. Each institution will appoint an equal number of directors.

Xavier president, Reynold Verret says it is their mission to increase diverse representation in practicing physicians and research. 

“Our purpose is to remedy prejudicial and inequitable structures in health care in the United States and abroad and to embark on a journey that advance health equity for all the peoples of this nation. The need for physicians of color is great.”

– Xavier president, Reynold Verret during a news conference announcing the partnership

According to NOLA.com, Verret said the project would likely cost $100 to $200 million. Ochsner and Xavier officials have not yet decided where the school would be, however, several said it would likely be somewhere on or near Xavier’s campus. Officials have not yet released a timeline for the first class.

Ochsner and Xavier have a long-standing partnership dating back to the early 1980s when Ochsner and Xavier’s College of Pharmacy came together to offer more clinical training sites for pharmacy students. Xavier’s College of Pharmacy is the oldest in Louisiana and has for years been among the top in the nation in producing African American graduates with Doctor of Pharmacy degrees.  

Xavier’s College of Medicine would become the fifth Black medical school in the U.S.

The establishment of the College of Medicine furthers Xavier’s mission of advancing healthcare excellence and education for the next generation. It will bring new opportunities in improving the health of marginalized populations in Louisiana.

“Our work with Ochsner and other partners who hold close to their hearts a vision of healing a broken world is a testament to Xavier’s mission to promote a more just and humane society,” said Verret. “Xavier was bestowed that mission by our founders St. Katharine Drexel and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament almost a century ago. Our dedication to preparing more Black health care professionals in our fight against health inequity is our answer to the call of our nation’s critical need and makes their legacy proud.”

Talladega College To Launch New Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Team

Talladega College will soon join Fisk University as the next HBCU with a gymnastics program through a partnership with Brown Girls Do Gymnastics. 

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Talladega College will soon join Fisk University as the next HBCU with a gymnastics program through a partnership with Brown Girls Do Gymnastics. 

On Saturday, Talladega College President Gregory J. Vincent and the Brown Girls Do Gymnastics founder Derrin Moore announced the new partnership at the HBCU Gymnastics Alliance Collaboration in Atlanta.

“This historic moment will have a lasting impact. Establishing a women’s gymnastics team at Talladega College will expand opportunities for HBCU student-athletes to compete in a rewarding sport that fosters discipline, confidence, and success,” said Vincent in a statement.

“Developing our first-ever women’s gymnastics team will also promote student and alumni engagement and pride; enhance the college’s brand; and help create a pipeline of diverse gymnasts.”

– Talladega College President Gregory J. Vincent

“While there are over eighty intercollegiate women’s gymnastics teams in the nation and many gymnastics clubs, Talladega will be one of only two HBCU teams,” added Talladega College Vice President and Athletic Director Michael Grant. “Having a team will give our athletes greater visibility and recognition.”

Brown Girls Do Gymnastics (BGDG), which also has a partnership with Fisk, prides itself on providing more opportunities for black and brown gymnasts to compete. This is in addition to creating awareness surrounding issues such as injury prevention, coaching, recruiting, and judging.

The organization also promotes camaraderie among HBCUs via diverse gymnastics events and activities, including an annual conference.

Talladega College will host the 8th Annual BGDG Conference, which will be held July 18 – 21, 2024.

Bowie State Names New Animation Studio after First Black Female Animator

Bowie State University recently named its new stop-motion animation space in honor of Ayoka Chenzira, Ph.D., division chair for the arts, chair of the Department of Art & Visual Culture, and professor at Spelman College.

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Bowie State University recently named its new stop-motion animation space in honor of Ayoka Chenzira, Ph.D., division chair for the arts, chair of the Department of Art & Visual Culture, and professor at Spelman College.

An award-winning artist and recognized pioneer in Black independent cinema, Dr. Chezira is a graduate of New York University, Columbia University/Teachers College and is the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in digital media from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Chenzira is also the first African American female animator and one of a handful of Black experimental filmmakers.

Ayoka Chenzira

BSU proudly honored Chenzira last month, naming the stop-motion animation space “Studio Ayoka Chenzira.”

According to a news release, BSU’s new studio will allow students to develop, animate and produce stop-motion and experimental animated productions, short films, and unique digital storytelling experiences. The space is a green screen studio outfitted with digital, stop-motion animation equipment and cameras. 

While working in the studio, students will also have the opportunity to combine stop-motion with other genres of animation and filmmaking including 2D, 3D, pixilation animation, motion graphics, sci-fi, and virtual productions in the future.

“With an increased adoption of animation in the film and advertising industries, there will be a growing need for skilled professionals to work in the field,” said Professor Williams, chair of Bowie State’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts and host of the all-day stop motion animation event where Dr. Chezira was honored.

Bowie State is the only HBCU in the nation with a stop-motion animation studio.