Two stars with roots to HBCUs are among several appointees to a new presidential initiative. Get the full story by Nicole Chavez at CNN below.
Actress Taraji P. Henson, left, and NBA star Chris Paul, right, are set to be appointed by President Joe Biden to his board of advisers on historically Black colleges and universities. (Credit: Getty Images)
Actress Taraji P. Henson, NBA star Chris Paul, and United Airlines president Brett Hart are among the 18 members of the President’s board of advisers on HBCUs. Paul was until last year the longtime head of the National Basketball Players Association.
The presidents of five HBCUs – Alabama State University, Virginia State University, Norfolk State University in Virginia, Dillard University in New Orleans and Prairie View A&M University in Texas – have also been appointed to the board.
Biden’s move comes weeks after his administration touted a $2.7 billion in funding from the American Rescue Plan that was provided to HBCUs over the past year and as HBCUs continue working to keep campuses safe after dozens received bomb threats in recent months.
The group is made of “qualified and diverse leaders” and appointing them to the board “will allow the administration to build on that financial commitment with continued institutional support,” the White House said.
The board “will be an eclectic mix of the talent and commitment that defines Historically Black College and Universities (HBCUs) and those who recognize our tremendous value in higher education and in a smaller, more connected global community,” Allen said in a statement.
He added that Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been “clear on their dedication to HBCUs in word and deed.”
More support for HBCUs has been part of Biden’s domestic policy agenda since his campaign for president. Last year, he proposed increased funding for HBCUs but his full proposal was not passed by Congress.
Earlier this week, the UNCF (United Negro College Fund)called on Congress to “make no reductions” that could impact HBCUs in Biden’s fiscal year 2023 budget proposal, which includes increased funding for HBCUs, tribally controlled colleges and universities (TCUs), minority-serving institutions (MSIs) and community colleges.
“We are asking Congress to make no reductions but live up to the President’s funding numbers this year. Our institutions deserve it, and so do our students,” Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF. said in a statement.
Rolling Out President and Clark Atlanta University alumnus Dr. Rashad Richey has made history with his work in radio! Learn more about Richey’s historic moment and other inspiring accomplishments from staff at Rolling Out below.
Emmy-nominated television news analyst for CBS News Atlanta, television news anchor, media executive, university lecturer, and radio personality Dr. Rashad Richey has now added another superlative to his resume, “National Black Radio Hall of Fame Inductee”, making him the youngest inductee for 2022 and one of the youngest in the history of the organization. Other notable inductees this year include Rev. Al Sharpton, The Breakfast Club’s Angela Yee, Sasha The Diva, V-103’s Ramona Debreaux, and gospel legend Dr. Bobby Jones to name a few. “This is such a high honor because it comes from my fellow colleagues in the broadcast industry across the country. The real credit goes to my amazing team of producers, mentors like Teddy Astin and Joyce Littel, radio management and listeners who trust us enough to bring them truthful and passionate commentary daily. Thank you National Black Radio Hall of Fame for being such an amazing leader and ally for Black broadcasters. The great work of Board President Bernie Hayes, Board Vice President Uvee Hayes, and Board 2nd Vice President Marsha Washington George cannot be overstated. Congratulations to all 2022 inductees!,” said Richey.
Dr. Richey has interviewed everyone from United States Vice-President Kamala Harris to Ice Cube as host of the award-winning Rashad Richey Morning Show (named Best Talk Radio Host by Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Atlanta Magazine, and Atlanta Business Journal) on News & Talk 1380-WAOK in Atlanta, GA, an Audacy station which airs on 1380-AM, V-103 FM (HD3), WAOK.com, and the Audacy App. Richey is also the political commentator for The People’s Station V-103 FM, the largest urban radio station in America.
Background/Biographical Information: Dr. Richey is an Emmy nominated Political Analyst for CBS News Atlanta and television anchor for the acclaimed national TV news show, ‘Indisputable with Dr. Rashad Richey’, which was recently named America’s Fastest Growing TV News Show’ by HEG, LLC . ‘Indisputable’ airs live weekdays from 2:30pm – 4pm ET on The Young Turks Network (TYT), which additionally airs on multiple linear cable channels including Comcast Xfinity, Xfinity Flex, Samsung TV, Pluto TV, Roku TV, Xumo TV, YouTubeTV, and various streaming platforms. ‘Indisputable’ averages over 3-million viewers a day and is also available via podcast on Apple Podcast, iHeart, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Sound Cloud, Acast, and others.
Known as political, social justice, policy, and socioeconomic juggernaut, Dr. Richey has provided political commentary on MSNBC, CNBC, BBC, BNC, Fox Business and the Fox News Channel, breaking down pressing issues in American culture.
When Dr. Richey is not on-air, he’s a business executive as President of Rolling Out, the largest free-print urban publication in the United States with a monthly readership of 2.8 million and combined social media following of over 500,000. Rolling Out covers political, entertainment, cultural, and business news.
A well-known social justice warrior, speaker and national thought leader, Dr. Richey is actively involved in policy reformation, addressing the social ills of racial disparity. This work led Dr. Richey to create The Rashad Richey Foundation, an agency that mentors and deprograms gang-affected and gang-affiliated youth. Dr. Richey has been recognized by various local and national agencies for his collective work and societal impact, including being honored with two Presidential Lifetime Achievement awards from former United States President Barack Obama and current United State President Joe Biden making him a rare double-honoree recipient of these prestigious recognitions. Dr. Richey also received the White House Presidential Volunteer Services Award.
Various organizations have recognized Dr. Richey for his advocacy, media acumen and philanthropy. Dr. Richey was named Top 40 Under Forty Most Influential people in GA by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and one of Atlanta’s Most Powerful leaders according to Atlanta Magazine. Other awards and recognitions include, Dr. Rashad Richey Appreciation Day – United States Congress, Dr. Rashad Richey Appreciation Day – Fulton County (GA), Dr. Rashad Richey Day – City of South Fulton (GA), GA Secretary of State Goodwill Ambassador, Global Media Icon Award – Fox Soul TV, Media Influencer of the Year – ICON Fashion and Beauty, Broadcaster of the Year – Tabitha’s House, Media Personality of the Year – GA Black Chamber of Commerce, Best in Media – RICE Awards, and International Man of the Year – iCreate International. Believing service is a responsibility we all must share, Dr. Richey is a Board Member at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, Recovery Consultants of Atlanta, Children’s Rights and Georgia Council for International Visitors, a US Department of State program dedicated to international cultural education, experiences and connections. He is a member of Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity, Black Law Student Association, Atlanta NAACP, Atlanta Press Club, National Association of Black Journalists, and American Association of University Professors.
Dr. Richey earned his Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies and Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Beulah Heights University. Being a student of politics and equitable policies, Dr. Richey continued his educational pursuits and completed his doctoral studies from Clark Atlanta University (Research Focus: “A Policy and Political Analysis of how America’s College Promise Act of 2018 Could Impact Higher Education Access of Nontraditional Black College Students”). Dr. Richey’s research exposed the nuances of policy ‘wrangling’ in DC and how adverse political dynamics within the context of higher education reform and access create a net negative for most Americans and negatively impacts the ecosystem of the American economy, specifically historically marginalized groups. According to Dr. Richey’s research, Game Theory and Critical Race Theory dynamics in policy development coupled with varying special interests and innate biases significantly stifle socially responsible legislation, especially as it relates to Black Americans. Dr. Richey concluded that these negative elements can be remedied through grounded approaches and grassroots methodologies based on strategic alignment, diminishing tribalism and properly messaging projected positive economic and social outcomes.
As a man of faith who believes politics, policy and spiritual values are socially connected, Dr. Richey also completed seminarian education and earned his PhD at the internationally recognized Scofield Graduate School where his qualitative research focused on “The Global Affect of Western Religion on Politics, Policy and Government”, making Dr. Richey a rare double-doctorate scholar. Being a student of leadership principals and criminal justice reform, Dr. Richey completed studies in Executive Leadership from Cornell University and is currently matriculating at Birmingham School of Law finishing his Juris Doctor Degree (Law Degree).
Dr. Richey is a noted international scholar and university lecturer who provides lectures on topics related to Race Relations in America, American Government Policy, Politics, Faith & Politics, Media, Social & Economic Disparities, Higher Education Reform, Leadership Theory, and Equity in Business. Currently, Dr. Richey serves as Professor and Director of Institutional Advancement & Corporate Relations at Morris Brown College (MBC) in Atlanta, GA. MBC is a private historically black liberal arts college founded January 5, 1881 and holds the distinction as the first educational institution in Georgia to be owned and operated entirely by African Americans and founded by ex-slaves.
Dr. Richey has provided keynote addresses and lectures at many colleges and universities including University of Michigan, Clark Atlanta University, Reinhardt University, Morehouse School of Medicine, Mercer University and other notable institutions.
National Black Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony program will be held October 3, 2022 from 6pm – 10pm CST at the Harris-Stowe State University Emerson Theater St. Louis, Mo. 63101.
Morgan State University‘s men’s basketball coach Kevin Broadus is there to stay for at least two more years thanks to a contract extension. Get the full story from MSU Athletics below.
Source: Morgan State University Athletics
Morgan State University President David K. Wilson has announced that men’s basketball coach Kevin Broadus has agreed to a two-year contract extension, continuing his leadership of the Bears program through the 2026-27 season. Broadus is entering his fourth season at the helm of the program after being named as the men’s head basketball coach in 2019.
“Coach Broadus has placed the basketball program at Morgan in a position of positive growth and continued competitiveness,” said President Wilson. “I have no doubt that the program is on a winning trajectory, both at the conference level and beyond. It is for this reason that I have made the decision to extend Coach Broadus’ tenure as the head of men’s basketball and will support its continued elevation.”
The Broadus-led Bears team compiled several significant victories over non-conference competition in this most recent season, elevating the caliber of wins for a program that aims to compete at a championship level within the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Broadus demonstrated exemplary leadership while successfully overcoming a number of challenges at the onset of his tenure at Morgan, including having to navigate rebuilding a program under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This past season, Morgan finished with a record of 13-15 overall, and placed fourth in the MEAC standings with a 7-6 record while advancing to the MEAC Tournament semifinals game. The previous season the team made it to the MEAC championship game.
“It’s an honor to serve as the head coach of Morgan’s men’s basketball team. I want to thank President Wilson and his administrative team for believing in me as their Coach,” said Broadus. “I’m excited to continue to build this program to a MEAC Championship, by investing in great people and players. I’m excited to help our guys advance both on and off the court and look forward to next season when we can get back into Hill Field House with our fans.”
Under Broadus, Morgan State has drawn national attention by playing in several high profile and historic games this season, including the inaugural Boost Mobile HBCU Challenge hosted by Chris Paul in Phoenix, Arizona, and the first-ever NBA All-Star HBCU Classic presented by AT&T. The team also participated in the postseason, accepting an invitation to compete in The Basketball Classic presented by Eracism.
Morgan State is 42-39 in three seasons under Broadus, including a 23-18 conference mark. Broadus has posted at least 13 wins in each of his campaigns for the Bears. Next season, the team is being projected to welcome one of the top recruiting classes for the MEAC.
Kentucky State University is thankfully much closer to getting the funding it needs thanks to a recent Senate budget approval. Get the story from Tom Latek at Kentucky Today below.
Credit: Silas Walker/Lexington Herald-Leader
Legislation to help financially-troubled Kentucky State University passed the General Assembly on Wednesday after adding additional funding,as well as more oversight of operations of the Frankfort school.
House Bill 250, sponsored by Rep. James Tipton, R-Taylorsville, and passed by the House Feb. 17, originally provided a $23 million no-interest loan to be repaid over the next several years so the school does not finish the current fiscal year in the red, but the version contained in a Senate Committee Substitute makes numerous changes.
But changes made in the Senate Education Committee appropriates that money to the Council for Postsecondary Education, with KSU making requests and providing documentation as that money is needed. There is an additional $15 million above that appropriated amount: $5 million for the fiscal year starting in July and another $10 million in the second year of the budget that would be available.
It also earmarks another $1.5 million to the CPE for expenses related to the oversight of KSU.
“It is so vitally important that we get this right,” said Senate President Pro Tem David Givens, R-Greensburg, who presented the bill on the Senate floor. “That we get this right for the Commonwealth, for our postsecondary institutions, and for our future.”
Givens pointed out the bill goes along with Senate Bill 265, which he sponsored, and directs Gov. Andy Beshear to appoint eight new members of the KSU Board of Regents, while not affecting the student staff, and faculty regents. That has been signed into law, and the Governor is to make those appointments so the Senate can confirm them before they adjourn on April 14.
Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer, R-Georgetown, said, “I feel we have been rewarding bad behavior, but we need to give it another chance, and I vote ‘aye.’ Let’s hope that K-State can show us better results for the taxpayers who invest in it on an annual basis.”
Sen. Reginald Thomas, D-Lexington, said he supports the provision that requires the CPE to contract with an outside party to provide oversight. “I think it’s important to have an independent third party who can report annually and provide recommendations. That is going to be helpful as we make Kentucky State University a gem on the hill.”
Acting President Clara Ross Stamps, in a statement, explained that the university was aware of the lawmaker’s concerns about the school.
“Kentucky State University recognizes the concerns of the state legislature and supports its efforts, as well as efforts by the governor and the Council on Postsecondary Education,” Ross said. “Ultimately, we all share the same objective – ensuring KSU remains a vibrant university providing its diverse students with opportunities to reach their aspirational goals.
The measure passed the Senate 36-0 and the House concurred later Wednesday night to the changes.
Author and entertainment executive Fred Whitaker is inviting us to “Come on a Journee with Me to D.C.” in his new book, written alongside his sister Courtney Whitaker! As the father of a young daughter, he has sought to highlight the value that Black fathers have in the lives of their children, and how their presence is perceived by the children. With this being his second book chronicling adventures with his daughter, HBCU Buzz caught up with the North Carolina A&T State University graduate to learn more about his life as a successful author and father.
The latest book is part of the “Come on a Journee with Me” series, which covers adventures in different cities. “Come on a Journee with Me to NYC,” was published in 2020, and has won several awards. The books are geared towards elementary-aged children, and inspired by Whitaker’s daughter, Journee, and niece, Briley. “While at one of the bookstores, Journee expressed to me that she would love to read a book and see characters that looked like her,” said Whitaker. “That sparked the idea of creating a children’s book based on our lives.” By he and his sister creating the series with young girls and also Oreo the dog, we’re able to follow the lessons the children are learning by traveling to different cities. In this latest trip to D.C., the family members learn about the history and landmarks within the Nation’s Capital.
The books have been as inspiring for the Whitaker family as they have for readers. For one, the books are a way for parents to understand how valuable quality time with them can be to children, while also broadening the outlook and cultural competency of children through travel. “I am inspiring them to think outside the box and to continue believing Black girls can do anything,” said Whitaker. “Specifically, seeing the girls hold our first book in their hands for the first time and purchasing a billboard for our second book are additional proud moments. It made everything full circle as it was something we discussed and now it has come into full fruition. The girls watching me execute and the smiles on their faces made it all worth it.”
The Whitakers are ultimately a prime example that parents can find a balance between the responsibilities of work and quality family time. Fred Whitaker currently serves as CEO and manager of Journee Enterprises, which is a talent management and consulting firm. He has worked to elevate the careers of La La Anthony, Angela Yee, Terrence J and other celebrities, plus he’s secuted partnerships with Amazon, AT&T, Tylenol and more. His sister Courtney Whitaker is a powerhouse as well, working not only as a writer for the “Journee” books, but as a co-executive TV producer and creative entrepreneur. She has a passion to tell the stories of underrepresented groups through media. She has written articles, poetry, short stories, done screenwriting and more for XoNecole, Style Caster and more. Her development and production work has extended across shows like Turning The Tables With Robin Roberts on Disney+, VH1’s Hip Hop Squares, and more. She currently serves as a creative executive and co-executive producer for The SpringHill Company, founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter.
Get your copy of “Come on a Journee with Me to D.C.” here today! You can follow Journee and her family on Instagram here.
Bowie State University got a special visit from famous actress Tichina Arnold to discuss a technology issue that affects us all, especially vulnerable students. Even Arnold herself was sadly a victim. Get the story from the Bowie State release below.
Award-Winning Actress Believes More Must be Done to Stop Scammers
Tichina Arnold, award-winning actress and co-star of the CBS hit sitcom, The Neighborhood, visited Bowie State University’s Performing Arts Center on March 25 to speak about Gabriel Crypto, a newly developed app that protects individuals from spam calls or phishing.
Each year spam calls account for people losing personal information, financial assets, and peace of mind. Bowie State University graduate students in the Department of Computer Science are conducting research to improve the speed of detecting new spam and ensuring the Gabriel Crypto App functions on an I-phone. Gabriel Crypto users receive payments in Bitcoin for reporting calls they believe are scams. Currently, the Gabriel App is only offered on Android devices.
“People feel violated when they are victimized by scammers,” said Tichina Arnold. “I know because it happened to me. Scamming is a crime and a $32 billion dollar a year problem for individuals, law enforcement, and our economy. That’s why it is imperative that people use the Gabriel Crypto App to protect themselves from thieves,” she said.
Funded by a National Science Foundation (NSF) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant to Forward Edge, Gabriel is an industry-leading SMS phishing protection technology that leverages Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain technologies to eliminate mobile eCommerce scams. BSU graduate students are working to enhance the product under the leadership of computer science Professor Darsana Joysula.
“Our graduate students are getting real-time experience in helping to solve a major worldwide problem and evolving new skills in product development,” said Professor Joysula. “There are currently 10,000 Gabriel Crypto App users and our goal is to improve the product thus increasing the number of users exponentially.”
Terrence Jenkins, center, has been named the new women’s basketball coach at Claflin University. He is joined by Claflin athletics director Tony O’Neal, left, and Claflin President Dwaun Warmack.(Credit: Travis Boland, T&D)
Claflin University announced Wednesday Terrence Jenkins will be the new head women’s basketball coach at the school.
Jenkins was named the interim head coach in December after the university cut ties with Revonda Whitley. A 2005 graduate of Claflin, Jenkins has been a part of the Panthers basketball program as an assistant for 14 seasons.
“I got to know (Jenkins) as an assistant coach,” Claflin athletics director Tony O’Neal said. “I watched his work ethic and commitment to Claflin University.”
During his opening speech, Jenkins thanked a number of former players, coaches, family and colleagues. He became emotional when talking about his mother, who was in attendance.
“I want to thank my first coach, and my favorite coach — my mom,” Jenkins said. “When you see her, you see me. She showed me how to love, how to care and how to help others when you have the opportunity.”
After taking over for Whitley, Jenkins led the Lady Panthers to a 7-12 record and the second round of the CIAA women’s basketball tournament. Claflin finished 10th in conference after being picked in the preseason to finish last.
“When I met with the ladies, I told them that we were picked to finish last (in the CIAA), and we’re not going to do that,” Jenkins said. “Somebody is going to finish first, why not us.”
After that second-round loss to Elizabeth City State, the team traveled home while Jenkins stayed in Baltimore.
“The team asked if I was coming back,” Jenkins said. “I told them I was coming back to Orangeburg, but they wanted to know if I was going to return to coaching them. Ladies, I’m back, and I’m ready to lead this team to a championship.”
Last year’s team featured 21 players on the roster, including 11 freshmen. Of those 21 players, only six were from the state of South Carolina and two were from Orangeburg County. As a native of Blackville, Jenkins said he would be searching for the best talent in state and out of state.
“Being from this area, I’m definitely going to hit those grounds running,” Jenkins said of his recruiting style. “I’m always looking in my own back yard. I’m looking for the best player and best student-athlete that can come in and be a part of this culture. Someone who will set the standard, win a lot of games and ultimately graduate.”
With him having taken over the team in December, Jenkins said the current roster is familiar with his coaching style, but he emphasized there is still a lot of work to accomplish.
“The biggest thing is we have not been through a preseason together,” Jenkins said. “We’re going to have to learn about hard work, and that starts with me. I have to set the standard. Preseason will be very important, we have to hit the ground running after this weekend’s Final Four. Having worked with the men and working with the women, there is very little difference. The ball is still orange, the rims are still orange and we have to put the ball in the basket more than the other team.”
Clark Atlanta University is looking to bring augmented teaching both in person and online thanks to a new grant totaling almost $12 million. Get more information about this historic grant in the Clark Atlanta release below.
EON Reality, the global leader in Augmented and Virtual Reality learning solutions EON Reality, the global leader in Augmented and Virtual Reality learning solutions for industry and education, awards Clark Atlanta University a $11.8 million grant bringing the Knowledge Metaverse to the HBCU community.
The Knowledge Metaverse amplifies access and engagement in learning by combining the real world with digital information and extended reality (XR) similar to immersive experiences that have become increasingly popular in arts, gaming, and entertainment. Created through a global network of users, the Knowledge Metaverse is a digital grassroots movement. The EON-XR solutions provided through this grant enable Clark Atlanta University, the first Historically Black College and University to receive this award, to offer training to their faculty and students augmenting traditional in person and online instruction.
“Partnering with a respected HBCU like Clark Atlanta University, whose graduates shape our world every year, demonstrates the impact EON-XR can have on the future of academia and the sciences,” says EON Reality founder Dan Lejerskar. Clark Atlanta University is an invaluable addition to EON Reality’s network of U.S. institutions. The university brings its rich social justice history and research-intensive instruction to the Knowledge Metaverse. “When a university with their commitment to social justice and deep focus on digital learning can utilize and add to the Knowledge Metaverse, the possibilities for reshaping our society are endless. I can’t wait to see how Clark Atlanta University incorporates EON Reality’s solutions into their curriculum.”
“Clark Atlanta University remains dedicated to our scholars and equipping with the best resources and innovative technologies,” said President George T. French Jr., Ph.D. “As we accelerate our momentum, these essential partnerships support our efforts to step into the future of interactive teaching and learning through relevant and future-focused innovations.
Rajah Caruth, a sophomore at Winston-Salem State University, will be making history at his first NASCAR race this weekend. To help him attend the race in style, another supportive HBCU, Virginia State University, has helped to sponsor his trip. See what Caruth’s race car will look like, and get more information from the Virginia State release below.
Credit: NASCAR
VSU sponsors car for history-making, 20-year-old, Black NASCAR Driver.
A Virginia State University themed race car will be driven in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Richmond Raceway on Saturday, April 2, 2022 (see photos below). The car will be driven by Washington D.C. native, Rajah Caruth. The debut for 20-year-old Caruth will make him only the third Black driver currently racing nationally in a NASCAR series. Rajah Caruth will compete in his first NASCAR race driving the number 44, orange and blue, Virginia State University sponsored car for Alpha Prime Racing in the ToyotaCare 250 at Richmond Raceway on Saturday. The race is the first of several that Caruth has signed with Alpha Prime Racing for the 2022 season.
Caruth is a sophomore at Winston-Salem State University, a fellow HBCU, where he is majoring in Motorsports Management.
“At VSU, we are known for being a conduit for greater trailblazers. That’s why we are pleased to support our fellow HBCU student who is expected to make history this weekend,” said VSU President, Dr. Makola M. Abdullah. “We take pride in providing a pathway to greater for our VSU students and we expect that the VSU sponsored car #44 will be Mr. Caruth’s literal vehicle to continue on his road to greater successes.”
The race is April 2, 2022 at 1:30pm at Richmond International Raceway. This is the first time since 1997 that NASCAR will make its first stop in the Commonwealth of Virginia at Richmond Raceway for the Toyota Spring Race Weekend. This was originally scheduled to occur in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Richmond’s spring race weekend.
The lifelong determination of Bessie Richardson Dillard to be educated and educate others has not gone unnoticed by her community. The Alcorn State University and Jackson State University alumna will be honored with name on the street. Get the story from John Surratt at The Vicksburg Post below.
Bessie Richardson Dillard holds a copy of the street sign renaming Hannah Avenue as Bessie Richardson Dillard Avenue in her honor. Dillard, the mother of 10 children, returned to chool in her 40s to receive a bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees in elementary education and taught in the Vicksburg Warren School District. (Credit: John Surratt/The Vicksburg Post)
A small group of family, friends and city officials gathered on Hannah Avenue in Marcus Bottom to honor an amazing lady and ensure her that her name will be remembered by future generations through a simple act.
At a brief ceremony, Hannah Avenue, the street where 102-year-old Bessie Richardson Dillard has lived a total of 54 years, was renamed Bessie Richardson Dillard Avenue to recognize her accomplishments in her community and as an educator in the Vicksburg Warren School District, where she taught for 23 years.
But Dillard’s story is more involved than being a teacher. It’s the story of a woman who, as the mother of 10 children went back to school in her 40s, graduated from Alcorn State University at age 45 with a bachelor’s in elementary education and went on to receive a master’s degree and specialist degree in elementary education.
“How doubly honored we are to be here to name this sweet after a phenomenal young lady who just happens to be 102 years old,” Mayor George Flaggs Jr. said. “Today, we’re not trying to rename but enhance the name of a street.”
Dillard’s story, he said, “Is something young people may not ever get a chance to read in the history books.
“It’s about a young lady who started her career in education at the age of 40-something and with 10 kids and she went off to matriculate at college to get a bachelor’s degree to get a master’s degree and then a Ph.D. The only thing that was short about this lady was a dissertation.
“Let nobody leave here today not understanding or undermining the importance of education,” Flaggs said.
Former Vicksburg Mayor Robert Walker, who grew up in Marcus Bottom, said Dillard is “a historical icon.” Over the years she has conducted herself in such a wonderful way and raised a beautful family. I don’t know what I would have done in public service had it not been for Mrs. Dillard and her whole family.
“This is certainly one of the major things in this community to recognize someone who has lived on this street by naming the street after them. This is really a testament to the progress that has been made in this city and the. Wonderful job this administration has done,” Walker said.
“The occasion today is to honor the longest-living resident on Vicksburg’s Hannah Avenue in historic Marcus Bottom,” her son James Dillard said. “To name a street is a universally accepted way of publicly honoring that person’s achievement.
“Bessie Dillard, at 102 years old, has achieved in the area of public education and had a desire not to be deterred in realizing a dream to complete her education in spite of having reared 10 children along the way.”
But Dillard said the ceremony was more than just an honor for his mother. Talking about growing up on Hannah Avenue, he said there were other families who made their mark in the neighborhood.
“This is also paying homage to those who have lived on this street,” he said.
The Rev. Linda Sweezer, Dillard’s youngest daughter, said the street dedication “was something that was a surprise.
“The mayor and I talked about it when mama turned 100 and to see it realized two years later it’s just amazing,” she said. “Everybody dropped everything they were doing in order to be a part of this great celebration. This is what you would call a no way to explain. Words can’t explain the way we feel today for the city honoring our mom.”
Two-time HBCU graduate Cedric Thomas is returning to his alma mater Alcorn State University as defensive coordinator. Get the story from the Alcorn State athletics release below.
Head Coach Fred McNair and the Alcorn State football program are pleased to announce the hiring of Cedric Thomas as the defensive coordinator for the Braves. The Cleveland native rejoins the Alcorn football staff after a prior stint as the defensive back coach from 2012-15 and the defensive coordinator in 2016 and 2017.
“I am excited to have Coach Thomas back at Alcorn,” said head coach Fred McNair. “He did an amazing job for us as defensive coordinator back in 2016 and 2017. He knows football, and he knows defense and will be an important part of moving thing this team forward.”
During his six seasons with the Braves, Alcorn won four straight SWAC Eastern Division Titles, including back-to-back SWAC titles in 2014 and 2015 and the inaugural Celebration Bowl.
Before returning to ASU, Thomas spent the 2021 season as the head football coach of his junior college alma mater Mississippi Delta Community College. He led the Trojans to a 5-4 season with three student-athletes receiving MACCC All-Conference awards. Defensive back Jeremiah Johnson was a first-team honoree, and wide receiver Lorenzo Perez and offensive tackle Austin Summerall were named to the second team.
Thomas spent the 2020 season as the defensive back coach at Southern Miss after a two-year stint as the head football coach at the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, his four-year alma mater.
In two years in Pine Bluff, Thomas helped lead the Golden Lions to a four-win improvement, as UAPB tripled their win total from two wins to six wins from 2018 to 2019. He coached 14 All-Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) honorees in his two years, including nine first-team selections.
Thomas served as the running backs coach at the University of Tennessee-Martin in 2002 before coming to Moorhead in 2003, where he also spent the 2004 season. After a two-year gig at Itawamba Community College in 2005 and 2006, he coached at MDCC for the 2007-2011 seasons.
The former MDCC and UAPB standout earned an Associate of Arts degree from MDCC in 1998, a bachelor’s degree in recreation in 2001 from UAPB, and a master’s degree in administration from Alcorn State in 2015.
The former East Side High School graduate is married to Kelunda, and the couple has one daughter, Loegan. Thomas also has a son, Cedric Jr.
The unusual bond that late rapper Young Dolph had with the Jackson State University football team will be forever memorialized. The HBCU has moved to rename the tunnel that players customarily come out of in his honor. Get the full story on their unusual bond from Michael Saponara at Hip Hop Dx below.
(Credit: Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
The Young Dolph legacy will live on forever in Jackson, Mississippi. Earlier in March, Jackson State University’s football team renamed their stadium’s tunnel where players walk out of every game the Paper Route Tunnel in honor of the late PRE boss.
“We should rename it,” a person who we assume works for Jackson State University said at a conference. “The name of the tunnel should be called Paper Route Tunnel. In memory of Young Dolph, the life and legacy.”
Dolph and Jackson State’s football team, which is coached by NFL legend Deion Sanders, are forever linked. The Memphis native pulled up to Jackson State’s 28-7 homecoming victory over Alabama State in October and joined the team’s celebration in the locker room where they turned up to his “100 Shots” anthem. The clip quickly went viral on social media.
Once reports of Young Dolph’s murder began to surface on November 17, coach Deion Sanders paid tribute to the late Memphis resident who visited his team a month prior.
“I hope to God these rumors ain’t true about my friend, my brother and a man dear to my Sons @YoungDolph,” the NFL icon wrote on Twitter. “Lord help us as a people stop the hate, the violence and the hopelessness. When we realize we matter others will as well. Lord help us right now.”
Young Dolph was shot and killed last November while at Makeda’s Cookies in his hometown. Three men have since been arrested in connection to his murder.
The award-winning Fisk Jubilee Singers® of Fisk University have been on a roll, having led a powerful performance at Carnegie Hall over the weekend. Get the story from the Fisk release below.
Saturday night marked an incredibly special occasion for the multi-award-winning Fisk Jubilee Singers®. Dr. Paul T. Kwami was invited by MidAmerica Productions, Inc. to serve as a guest conductor during the opening concert of its 39th season. Under Dr. Kwami’s direction, the Fisk Jubilee Singers® led several outstanding choral ensembles through a tour de force collection of the traditional Negro spirituals and a Ghanaian song. The concert took place on the Ronald O. Perelman Stage/Isaac Stern Auditorium in Carnegie Hall. The extraordinary arrangements included everything from John Work to Harry T. Burleigh and Paul T. Kwami.
Less than a month after performing at the Los Angeles Lakers game, the Fisk Jubilee Singers® among the combined chorus thrilled a full Carnegie audience including Rev. Jesse Jackson with their timeless voices and enduring spirit of hope and overcoming. At the conclusion of the show, the audience was in awe and gave a prolonged standing ovation for the remarkable arrangements and performances. The concert was presented by MidAmerica Productions, Inc. and considering the overwhelming response, it appears the Fisk Jubilee Singers® may be back in New York city before long.
The Fisk Jubilee Singers® have inspired audiences, broken barriers and built buildings for 150 years. Jubilee Hall, the oldest permanent structure on any Historically Black College campus, stands as a testament to the talent and perseverance of generations of Fisk Jubilee Singers®. Today, the ensemble continues to open minds, uplift hearts, promote education and inspire audiences across the globe. The unique power of music to change lives reverberates through their every performance and these timeless voices will surely continue to inspire for another 150 years.
Claflin University has big plans for a student center that will connect the university with the community. Get the story from Dionne Gleaton at The Times and Democrat below.
Breaking around on Claflin University’s new student center are, from left, Dr. Karl Wright, provost; Dr. Zia Hasan, Vice President of planning, assessment and information service; Tijuana Hudson, Vice President for Fiscal Affairs; Dr. Dwuan J. Warmack, president; James K. Lehman, board chairman; Dr. Cletra Peters, Vice President and chief of staff; Shirley Biggs, associate vice president for Human Resources/Title IX coordinator; Dr. Leroy Durant, Vice President for student development and services; Tony O’Neal, athletic director; Reynolda Brown, interim vice president for enrollment management, and Dr. Marcus H. Burgess, interim vice president for institutional advancement. (Credit: The Times and Democrat Correspondence Yon Line)
Claflin University broke ground on a $30 million, three-story student center on Friday.
Plans call for the center to include a theatre, performing arts center, 800-seat ballroom, eSports center, meeting/conference rooms and a food court with national, name-brand eateries.
“It’s just not for our campus. It will serve as the living room and a central gathering space for faculty, staff, students and community members,” Claflin President Dr. Dwaun Warmack said.
The university hopes to have the 85,000-square-foot center open by June 2023. It’ll be located at the corner of Magnolia Street and Goff Avenue.
Zakarrius Hayes, a senior criminal justice major, is excited about the development of the student center. He said Warmack is doing a good job in elevating the university
“I feel really good about it. I will be graduating in May, but hopefully I will get a chance to come back to Orangeburg to be able to see this nice building. I am so glad that we have something that we can actually expand with our students and the Orangeburg community,” the 23-year-old said.
Warmack said, “Students spend 18 to 22 percent of their time inside the classroom in college. So that means 80 percent of their time is outside the class. If living and learning is not happening outside the class, we’re missing the boat. This center will allow us to make sure that learning is continuing to happen on our campus.”
Claflin Vice President for Fiscal Affairs Tijuana Hudson said the center will also be a place where student services will be consolidated in one location, including the “mail room, print shop, book store, and all other student service areas, such as career services, that focus on student success.”
“The state-of-the art facility will bring amenities and expanded services to the community, and it will continue to build upon previous investments in Orangeburg. We are excited about what today means for Claflin and the Orangeburg community as we continue our pursuit of elevation and transformation,” Hudson said.
Wells Fargo, the Innovate Fund, the South Carolina Community Loan Fund and PNC Bank were the four financial institutions involved in the project’s financing, she said.
Warmack said, “It is my goal that we burn every mortgage when we cut the ribbon when we move in here June 2023. So we’re going to raise $30 million to have this building paid for.”
He thanked Orangeburg city and county council members, along with the university’s trustee board members, for their support in making the student center project a reality.
“This is just the beginning. We’re looking for many more partnerships to come,” the president said.
Hudson said there will be many ways the community can use the student center, including as a job training site.
“It’s all about bettering the people that live within the community, where they are able to build themselves, get better jobs and be able to improve their living conditions,” she said.
Claflin Board Chairman James K. Lehman said, “We look to the future as we build this building. This building will shape generations of students to come, and we hope that it will have just as large of an impact on the community of Orangeburg as not only a gateway to Claflin, but a gateway to Orangeburg and to the community and activities in Orangeburg.”
Orangeburg City Administrator Sidney Evering said, “We’re beyond excited. Like Dr. Warmack said, this just doesn’t impact Claflin. I’s impacting the entire community. We’re all in this together. So what is good for Claflin is good for South Carolina State (University), it’s good for OCtech, it’s good for Orangeburg and vice versa.”
“So we all need to be working together to continue to move Orangeburg forward. This is just a huge step in that direction, and we all hope to take similar steps together,” Evering said.
Warmack said, “I’m extremely excited. God is faithful. We’re not taking for granted the favor that God has had. During this time, we have a lot of colleges, universities and businesses that are closing, a lot of folks who are furloughing and laying off, but we’re still in a growth mode.
“God has been faithful to this institution during this time. So we want to be good shepherds over what we have, and we hold a responsibility to be able to do that for our community and for our students.”
Greenville-based MCA Architecture Inc. is the architect for the project. Columbia-based M. B. Kahn Construction Co., Inc. is the general contractor.
The first recipients of the “Terry Thompson and John Cardwell” scholarships are pictured at the recent Hatter Hall Scholarship Luncheon at Bluefield State College. They are (seated, left-to-right): Damien Lynch, Aziyah Jackson, (standing, left-to-right) Michael Acheampong, Michelle Lawson, Kashif Alston, Terry Thompson (BSC retiree for whom, with John Cardwell, the scholarship was named), Patrice Sterling, Nia Lumpkins, and Desmond Freeman.contributed photo
Tosin (John) Falasinnu and his sister, Yemisi (Josephine) Falasinnu are proud Bluefield State College alumni. Following their graduation several years ago, they have enjoyed productive and fulfilling careers. Tosin is a Manager, iPhone Product Quality, at Apple, Inc. and Josephine is a registered nurse.
Both now live and work in San Jose, California. They’ve pledged $100,000 to help other students in their academic pursuits at Bluefield State College.
The scholarship program underwritten by their generosity is named in honor of two former BSC employees, Terry Thompson and John Cardwell, both of whom are now retired. “When Tosin and Josephine traveled from their home in Lagos, Nigeria to Bluefield State, John Cardwell and I took them under our wings, found housing for them, and helped both throughout their student years at BSC,” recalled Thompson, former Academic Advisor in the Counseling and Advising Center and Registrar at the College.
“Josephine and Tosin really appreciated our help and the support they received when they were students at Bluefield State,” Thompson continued, “and they decided to pledge $100,000 to enable more students to further their education at BSC. Both worked as tutors when I was an academic advisor in the Counseling Center. They were like my children the entire time they attended BSC, spending every holiday with me and my family.”
Cardwell also provided timely insight and support for the Falasinnu siblings, according to Thompson. “John treated them with such respect,” she said. “He was always available, sharing advice and insight to help both Tosin and Josephine. “He made sure they were financially stable, and he treated them with such respect,” Thompson recounted.
The Mercer County Chapter of the Bluefield State College Alumni Association received the Falasinnus’ pledge along with their initial $10,000 check. The scholarships will be awarded annually to Black or Hispanic students with financial need and who maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average.
“The Falasinnus are outstanding examples of BSC success stories,” added Cardwell, former Vice President for Student Affairs. “Now they are in a position to give back so others can have the same educational opportunities they had. Tosin and Josephine are true ambassadors for Bluefield State College.”
The first “Terry Thompson and John Cardwell Scholarship” recipients received $1,000 awards during the February 18 Hamilton Hatter Scholarship Luncheon at BSC. They are Damien Lynch, Aziyah Jackson, Michael Acheampong, Michelle Lawson, Kashif Alston, Patrice Sterling, Nia Lumpkins, and Desmond Freeman.
Thanks to a million-dollar donation, Rust College is preparing to establish the Ida B. Wells Social Justice Center and Interpretive Center on the Mississippi Industrial College (MIC)! The school will also be able to make additional improvements on campus. Get the full story in the article from Autumn Scott at WREG Memphis below.
Rust College announced that it has received $1 million for infrastructure and facility improvements.
In a press release, Rust College said the $1 million allocation will help in the creation of the Ida B. Wells Social Justice and Interpretive Center on the Mississippi Industrial College (MIC) campus in the Washington Hall Building.
Rust College purchased the closed HBCU campus in 2008 with the intention of utilizing the existing historic campus as an opportunity to grow programming and opportunities for students and enhance the Holly Springs community.
Its first Congressional special project appropriation was recommended by Sen. Roger Wicker.
“We are grateful to Senator Wicker and his staff for recognizing the potential of this project to positively impact Rust College and the surrounding community,” said Dr. Ivy Taylor, President of Rust College.
Rust College said the Ida B. Wells Social Justice and Interpretive Center will facilitate research and celebration of Mississippi’s civil rights history and accomplishments, while taking lessons from those ideals and best practices to have an impact on the social justice issues of today.
The goal of the center is to educate students and others on civil rights history, serve as a center for collaborative efforts to combat discrimination and poverty in Mississippi and influence policy change on key issues.
According to Rust College Board Chair and alumnae Cecelia Sawyer, “Reclamation of the Washington Hall building and creation of our Ida B. Wells Social Justice Center will contribute to the academic, social, and personal development of students and provide opportunities for educational, cultural, and leadership development.”
