The football program at Jackson State University has been doing well with its recruitment efforts. That’s especially evident now that 5-star player and Florida State commit Travis Hunter is looking at JSU too. Get the full story from Dustin Lewis at SportsIllustrated‘s NoleGameday below.
Credit: Dale Zanine
Hunter spent some time with legendary Seminole Deion Sanders over the weekend.
Jackson State is seeing a resurgence under head coach Deion Sanders. Not just on the football field, where the Tigers currently sit at 10-1, but on the recruiting trail as well. Sanders is doing something we haven’t seen often at HBCU’s, consistently landing top-flight talent. In the 2021 class, JSU brought in multiple four-star prospects out of high school and through the Transfer Portal.
Over the weekend, the top prospect in the 2022 class, defensive back Travis Hunter, made his way up to Mississippi to watch the Tigers face Alcorn State in front of 59K fans. The game was both senior day for Jackson State and it marked Sanders’ return for his first home contest since being hospitalized in late October.
‘22 #ESPN300 5-Star CB Travis Hunter who returned to the field last night following an ankle inj.-was in Jackson, MS today for a visit-Big visit for JSU as the #FSU commit saw them defeat Alcorn St in front of sellout-JSU is coached by former FSU great @DeionSanders@TheUCReportpic.twitter.com/OCSLgNKyHo
While this is certainly a huge visit for Jackson State, it might be even more important to note that the trip meant Hunter was able to spend some time around one of the greatest players in Florida State’s history. Sanders was a Hall of Fame defensive back in Tallahassee and Hunter has noted in the past that he looks up to him and wants to continue the DBU mantra. You can bet that they had a few conversations throughout the weekend.
The Tigers defeated Alcorn State, 24-10, while Hunter was on campus. JSU has won eight straight games with its only loss being to FBS UL-Monroe in September. Sanders is now 14-4 as a head coach.
Hunter returned to the football field on Friday night in Collins Hill’s second playoff game. He’s finally recovered from an ankle injury that he suffered earlier in the season and it showed. Hunter pulled down an interception and recorded an electric 48-yard touchdown in a 48-6 win. He’ll play Lowndes County on Friday night.
The No. 1 prospect was in Tallahassee last weekend to watch the Seminoles take down Miami for the first time in four years. He’s also visited Georgia during the season.
Hunter plans to sign with Florida State during the Early Signing Period in December.
Written by Howard University Student Nyah Hardmon, Presented by Beats By Dre
Maro Itoje is not your typical rugby player; the Saracens club and England national team member is anything but average. Instead, the Nigerian-British athlete plays in a league of his \\own, with his keen sense of self separating him from the pack.
As a Black athlete playing within a predominantly white league, Itoje’s experience differs from that of his teammates. Because the origins of rugby lie within the elitist culture of British gentlemen schooling, the foundation of the sport is rooted in a sense of exclusion. Even the expansion of the practice to new countries was often done under the caveat of colonialism, presenting a complicated relationship with players of color as natives of the land who did not always have access to the game.
In Nigeria, the birthplace of Itoje’s parents, rugby was first introduced with teams primarily composed of white settlers and foreigners. Thus, even with modern formations of more diverse organizations like the London Nigerian Rugby Club, Itoje’s upbringing within the sport has always deviated from the historical norm.
“Being a Black rugby player, you’re often one of the minority in a team,” Itoje admits. “The teams I play for, they’re brilliant and they’re very inclusive but the experience of being the other is an experience that most of my teammates would not necessarily have to experience.”
Yet, Itoje has proven that playing with people who don’t look like him is no challenge for his success within the industry. This ability to float above any cultural obstacles that come his way is something he attributes to his parents and their insistence that he stays grounded in who he is, where he comes from, and what he represents. Instead of trying to blend in with the crowd, Itoje chooses to stand out and stays faithful to himself.
“Within team sport, there’s always a bit of pressure to conform to the team, and it’s necessary to a certain degree otherwise the team wouldn’t be able to function, but there are times when things don’t necessarily mesh too smoothly,” Itoje says. “With those times, it’s about having a strong identity of who you are and the things that are important to you.”
For Itoje, a key part of who he is lies within his Nigerian heritage. With frequent trips to his family’s homeland, Itoje has always been connected to the West African country and its culture. Despite living in England, a nation with a different set of values, norms and traditions, Itoje uses conversations with friends and colleagues to celebrate this facet of his identity and educate others on his heritage.
“Being Nigerian is a very strong part of who I am and I think that whole background has shaped the person I am today,” Itoje says. “I think it’s the lens in which I see the world. It’s shaped me as a man, so that part of my identity is very special to me and it’s a part of my identity that I do hold close to my heart.”
Representing his heritage does not stop once Itoje steps off the field. His ventures outside of rugby and his profession allow him to further his efforts in cultural enlightenment. Through his passion for art, Itoje is able to place African artwork on a pedestal, shining a light on stories often overlooked. In an exhibit he helped curate at London’s Signature African Art Gallery entitled A History Untold, Itoje addresses minority misrepresentation head-on, using the creative medium to highlight Black contributions to society that often go unnoticed. The exhibit, which opened in May, is a love letter to the Black and African cultures Itoje wishes were celebrated more often.
“Art is the love affair that I’ve had for a couple of years now— in particular African art,” Itoje reveals. “I’m still able to use that as a means to celebrate my culture and I’m still able to appreciate the art forms. Even though I’m a rugby player, I still have the time to delve into that passion project of mine.”
While A History Untold exhibit tackles underrepresented populations through art, Itoje’s work with the social enterprise Black Curriculum brings this conversation into schools. The organization aims to widen the scope of Black history education, exposing students to the diversity that composes the Black experience over time. Since Itoje has always valued education, the collaboration was a perfect fit, offering the athlete an opportunity to correct the misrepresentation he experienced when he was younger.
“When I was in school, the only parts of Black history that were taught were the slave trade, the Civil Rights Movement in America and maybe a little bit on colonialism. While those three areas of history are important, it tells a single story with regards to African history, with regards to Black history, it doesn’t tell the full picture and I think that’s problematic on a number of fronts,” Itoje says.
From art to history, Itoje’s interests stretch well beyond the scope of sports, something that more and more teams are beginning to witness as the rise of athlete activism takes form. Itoje chalks up this recent trend to athletes embracing the multitudes of humanity.
Even though rugby is an instrumental part of Itoje’s life, he always restricted the sport to representing a portion of who he is rather than completely defining his persona. This allowed space for other interests like fashion and art, giving them room to flourish
alongside his athleticism. Still, this concept of athletes being multifaceted is an adjustment to leagues unaccustomed to viewing team members outside of their uniforms.
“People always have their beliefs of how you should behave and there’s certain things you do in your life that you’ll always get a little bit of pushback on,” Itoje says. “At the end of the day, you only have one life and you have to navigate that life the way you see fit. The way I’ve always seen it is to make the most of all the opportunities that I have and make sure I’m living life the way I want to live my life as opposed to the way others see I should live my life.”
This pledge to remaining true to himself includes making space for tough conversations. When discussing racism and discrimination, Itoje highlights the differing points of view of others to help them understand experiences outside of their own. He believes that these discussions have a place within rugby especially, as the sport still has room to grow in terms of inclusion and representation.
“Diversity of opinion is good and it should be encouraged, but with things as important as racism and discrimination, I think it’s important to have conversations. I think the moment we stop talking to one another is the moment things start to go in a very very negative way,” Itoje said.
Between dominating on the field, exploring his creativity and educating others, Itoje’s daily routine never lacks diversity. While he may not view himself as the outspoken advocate others paint him as, his presence in the industry adds to the pantheon of athletes who have redefined what it means to be more than an athlete, inspiring a new generation of players unafraid to chase what is important to them without sacrificing their careers. And when he’s not initiating necessary exchanges or using the smooth sounds of Keith Sweat to calm down, Itoje’s focus lies in being a role model for those that come after him.
“I often think of myself as trying to be the individual that I would have looked up to as a young player growing up,” Itoje said. “One thing I’ve always tried to do is always be the authentic ‘Maro,’ because I think when you’re authentic, when you’re yourself, whatever happens you can always walk with your head held high.”
ABOUT THE AUTHORNyah Hardmon is a junior journalism major at Howard University. She has worked as a writing fellow with the Washington Independent Review of Books as well as an on-air personality intern with WHUR. She was also part of the inaugural HBCU internship cohort at Universal Music Group. Nyah is an award winning spoken word poet with her original work featured in PoetryMagazine. She has received national recognition from the YoungArts Foundation and the U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts.
Pre-taped at the campus of Tennessee State University (TSU), which is recognized by the US Department of Education as a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), the country superstar gave fans a look into his Tennessee and Georgia upbringing before he performed “One Mississippi.”
“It feels awesome to represent country music at the AMAs,” Brown said. “I’m not your traditional country artist, but once you crack into what I’m doing, and what a lot of other country artists are doing today, it might make you decide that you want to go back and listen to things before us.”
“Kane Brown is a Tennessee native, and he’s changing the world through his music,” Dr. Glenda Glover, President of Tennessee State University shared. “It’s amazing to have him here. We proudly welcome Kane Brown to Tennessee State University.”
Brown’s performance, which was part of the AMAs new ‘My Hometown’ segment, found the chart-topping hitmaker performing the anthemic song surrounded by TSU students.
Watch his performance below.
Co-written by Brown alongside Jesse Frasure, Levon Gray and Ernest K. Smith and produced by Dann Huff, “One Mississippi” is a “song about a relationship. I don’t know everybody’s had where you make up, and you break up, and you just keep running into each other and then something about that spark in the relationship gets y’all back together and may fall apart again, but he tried it twice at least,” according to the country hitmaker.
The track officially impacted radio on Monday, August 23. “One Mississippi” quickly became the most added song at country radio, with over 112 total stations adding the track into their rotation, marking Brown’s biggest radio impact day to date.
The 2021 American Music Awards also featured performances from Olivia Rodrigo, Bad Bunny with Tainy and Juliete Venegas, Jason Aldean and Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Lopez, BTS, Coldplay, Silk Sonic, New Edition, New Kids on the Block, Diplo, Måneskin, Mickey Guyton, Tyler, the Creator, Walker Hayes, and Zoe Wees.
The awards ceremony also included a star-studded list of presenters, including Machine Gun Kelly, Brandy, Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler, Anthony Ramos, Billy Porter, D-Nice, Drew Lachey, Joey Fatone and Shawn Stockman, JB Smoove, JoJo Siwa, Liza Koshy, Marsai Martin, Madelyn Cline, Michelle Young, and Winnie Harlow.
Sponsored by Xfinity, the 2021 American Music Awards is produced by MRC Live & Alternative and Jesse Collins Entertainment.
Hosted by Cardi B, the American Music Awards aired live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles at 8/7c on ABC.
The show will stream again on Monday, November 22, 2021, via Hulu.
Top seeded Howard University women’s volleyball team claimed its sixth Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Championship in seven seasons after a 3-1 victory (22-25, 25-21, 25-20, 25-20) over No. 2 Delaware State (DSU) at Burr Gymnasium.
With the historic victory, HU (18-12) is now tied with Florida A&M for the most volleyball titles in MEAC history (13 total).
Freshman Cimone Woodard (Missouri City, Texas) led the Bison with 10 kills, eight digs and six total blocks (three solo). For her efforts, the Texas native was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.
The Bison experienced a rocky start in set one with five service errors, but found some momentum throughout game one. But ultimately, HU lost the first set, 20-25.
Heading into set two, the Bison immediately found some momentum with back-to-back aces from junior setter Kayla Diaz (Nanuet, N.Y.). The New York product finished with three total services aces on the night.
Kills from C. Woodard and Dami Awojobi (Hempstead, N.Y.) thrusted the Bison to an 18-12 lead midway through the set, before Delaware State was forced to call a timeout.
A kill from MEAC Rookie of the Year Bria Woodard (Missouri City, Texas) then gave the Bison set point (24-21). Next play, an attack error from DSU sealed the game, 25-21, and tied the contest at one apiece. B. Woodard produced a double-double (11 digs & 10 kills), along with a pair of service aces, in the win.
The Bison took control in set three, starting with a kill by C. Woodard to open the set. A pair of service aces from senior Busisiwe Banda (Cedar Park, Texas) gave the Bison a 17-9 lead midway through the game.
After a DSU service error, the Bison moved to within one point of set point. The Hornets forced six set points, but another service error allowed the Bison to claim set three, 25-20.
In set four, Howard lost momentum in the beginning and trailed early, 2-6; however, a service ace from B. Woodard helped HU tie the game, 7-7. With a block from C. Woodard and Awojobi, the Bison kept the set tight early, 9-9. HU finished with 13 total blocks in the match.
After finding the first lead of the set with a kill from C. Woodard, the Bison then went on cruise control and captured set point and match point after a solo block from C. Woodard (25-20).
Junior middle blocker Tamar Wells (Apopka, Fla.) joined the Woodard sisters on the All-Tournament Team. The Florida native recorded eight kills and seven total blocks (one solo) in the win.
Senior Kailyn Williams (Arlington, Texas), who played her final match at The Burr, added nine kills and two digs in the victory.
“We dropped the first set and learned from our mistakes,” said Williams. “We knew the last three sets that we had to take of business. We fought and gave so much energy. We went for it and came away champions.”
Bison volleyball head coach Shaun Kupferberg was named MEAC Outstanding Coach.
Valeria Otero led the Delaware State Hornets (26-4) with 10 kills, seven digs, and one service ace.
The 2021 NCAA DI women’s volleyball championship bracket will be announced Sunday, Nov. 28 at 8:30 p.m. ET on ESPNU.
Student athletes at North Carolina A&T State University have an entrepreneur and member of Alpha Phi Alpha to thank for a significant recent donation and new opportunities! Get the full story from the N.C. A&T release below.
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is naming its track at Truist Stadium for entrepreneur Marcus T. Johnson in recognition of his philanthropic contributions that directly benefit students of color and support of minority-owned and -operated nonprofits.
The Aggies acknowledged Johnson and his recent $350,000 donation to the university during the football team’s last home game of the season Saturday, Nov. 20.
“We deeply appreciate Marcus Johnson for his generous gift that will benefit not only our track program, but all student athletes,” said Earl Hilton III, director of intercollegiate athletics. “This will help our facility maintain its status as a top track in the nation while also directly supporting student-athletes through scholarships.”
A Beaufort, North Carolina, native, Johnson was reared in Tarboro, North Carolina, where his parents instilled the values of education, hard work and giving back. After graduating from high school, he went on to earn his degree in business administration and finance from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro.
Johnson is an accomplished entrepreneur with enterprises spanning multiple industries. He operates Johnson Automotive Group (JAG) – one of the largest Black-owned franchise dealer groups in the country with locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
A proud husband and father, Johnson is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. who prioritizes meaningful community involvement and continues to serve on various boards in the Carolinas.
Additionally, as a champion for minority advancement in leadership and commerce, Johnson is devoted to closing the wealth gap through opportunity and access.
“I believe representation is important. This by no means levels the playing field, but it helps address persisting disparities,” said Johnson. “It is an honor to invest in our scholar-athletes as they continue the pursuit of excellence.”
The track at A&T – now known as Marcus T. Johnson Track – has produced stellar athletic success in recent years, most recently with Trevor Stewart ‘20 and Randolph Ross Jr. becoming the university’s first Olympic gold medalists after leading the United States to the medal round of the men’s 4×400-meter relay in Tokyo on Aug. 7. Stewart made history as the first Aggie to earn a medal in the Olympics, securing a bronze medal for the United States in the inaugural mixed 4×400-meter relay in Tokyo on Aug. 1.
The Aggies claimed national titles in the men’s 4×400-meter relay and 400-meter race and the women’s 100-meter and 200-meter races at the NCAA Division I Outdoor Track and Field Championships in June. Ross Jr., who won the 400-meter race, joined Stewart, Daniel Stokes and Akeem Sirleaf to claim the 4×400-meter relay victory. Cambrea Sturgis won the 100-meter and 200-meter races, marking only the 13th time in NCAA history a runner accomplished the feat and becoming the first to do it in five years.
The 2021 list of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.’s latest Honorary Members has just been released! Get the full scoop on who made the list in the Black Enterprise story by Tai Saint-Louis below.
On day two of its 55th National Convention, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. released its list of 2021 Honorary Members, which includes journalists Joy-Ann Reidand Abby Phillip, and singer Ledisi.
The complete list of honorary sorors, revealed via the organization’s Instagram page on Saturday morning, also includes former Navy Admiral Michelle J. Howard, Ambassador Attallah Shabbazz and Collette V. Smith, the NFL’s 1st Black female coach.
“Honorary Membership is the highest honor extended to women who have made significant contributions to society while excelling in their chosen fields,” the social media post read. “It is with joy that we welcome these exemplary women into our beloved sisterhood!”
Each of these women have received a multitude of accolades in their respective fields, which range from sports to politics to the military.
Ledisi has been nominated for multiple awards over the course of her 21-year career, including 13 Grammy nominations. Earlier this year, she took home the Grammy for the song “Anything For You.”
Reid has been a mainstay in political coverage over the last few years, working as a national correspondent for MSNBC. Her spotlight grew even more when her latest platform at the network, The ReidOut took over the 7p.m. timeslot formerly held by Chris Matthews’ Hardball. CNN Senior Political Correspondent Abby Phillip is the host of Inside Politics and led several 2020 elections-related specials for the network.
During her military career, Howard broke several barriers, including becoming the first African-American woman to command a United States Navy ship. As a four-star admiral, not only did Howard retire as the highest ranked woman in US Naval history, she was also the first female four-star admiral to command active operational forces.
After having achieved her own recognition as an author, activist and speaker, in 2002 Shabazz – the daughter of Malcolm X – was asked by the Prime Minister of Belize to serve as an Ambassador-At-Large representing the Central American nation in perpetuity.
Rounding out the list of newest members is Smith, who became the first female coach within the NFL when she coached the New York Jets‘ defensive backs during the 2017-2018 season. According to The Daily Drip, he now works with the Women’s Football League Association.
As Honorary Members of DST, the women are following in the footsteps of Angela Bassett, Ruby Dee, Aretha Franklin, and Cicely Tyson, to name a few.
American Baptist College board member Rosetta Perry has helped to open a store in the Nashville International Airport! Learn about the store, which will feature HBCU gear, in the story by Ms. June in The Tennessee Tribune below.
Nashville International Airport (BNA), Skyport Hospitality, The Tennessee Tribune, and Chaux Consulting announce the opening of the Tennessee Tribune Store by changing the landscape of airport retail properties on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021. Over 40 diverse vendors and HBCU collegiate apparel will be included in the inventory. The arduous process which began over three years ago started with 432 applications desiring to join Fraport-USA’s efforts to convert the Nashville airport into the crown jewel of airports.
Nashville’s culture resonates for tourists and BNA is a destination location for international travelers, and an entertainment paradise accessible also to Nashville’s minorities and African Americans. The Tennessee Tribune store is among many Nashville favorites including: 360 Degrees, Vino Fiesta, Party Fowl, Acme Feed and Seed, The Southern, Swett’s and a host of other popular concepts that will fill the 133,000 square feet through the year 2029. The Tennessee Tribune is part of the local innovators and independent operators transforming the BNA environment and providing travelers with a truly authentic Southern hospitality experience.
Many local vendors such as Tim’s Southern Tea, Maggie Allen Candy, Kandles by Kierra, Winfrey Family Foods, What My Shirt Say, Bryla J. Couture, Nashville Roast Coffee and more can be found in the custom designed store that captures the history of the Tennessee Tribune.
Local authors and HBCUs collegiate apparel as well as popular genres will also have a presence. Bishop Joseph W. Walker, III, Dr. Ruben Cockrell, Dr. Jewell Winn & Dr. Walton Minton, Seanne Wilson, Renukah Christoph and Rosetta Miller-Perry, among the diverse list of authors with literary works in the store.
With over 14 million travelers expected to visit BNA, Mrs. Miller-Perry stated that “she’s ready to embark on this retail journey and continue the non-stop legacy of the Tennessee Tribune.” The 1,800 square foot Tennessee Tribune store, which is the first of two locations, can be accessed in the South Terminal near Southwest Airlines between terminals C and D. The second location that will be 1,200 square feet is expected to open in the Spring of 2022 and will be pre-security with grab and go offerings, similar wares from the first store and other novelty items.
A gaming company with dealings all over the country has earmarked an additional $4 million to support HBCUs! Learn about how Penn National Gaming, Inc. has already supported 33 HBCUs, and its plans for these additional funds in the release below.
Credit: Bowie State University
Penn National Gaming, Inc. (Nasdaq: PENN)(“Penn National” or the “Company”) announced today that it has launched a new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (“STEM”) Scholarship Program in partnership with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (“HBCUs”) in states where it operates. Through this initiative, Penn National will dedicate more than $4 million over five years to fund STEM scholarships and internship opportunities at the Company. The initial participating HBCUs include Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia, Bowie State University in Bowie, Maryland, and Wilberforce University in Wilberforce, Ohio.
“Last year, we formed the Penn Diversity Committee to help put our Company’s longstanding support of diversity and inclusion into action,” said Jay Snowden, President and CEO of Penn National. “The Committee, which reports directly to me, includes a broad range of team members from underrepresented communities and at varying levels in our organization. Their guidance led to the Company launching a $1 million annual Diversity Scholarship Program for children of Penn National team members in furtherance of the Company’s commitment to equity in post-secondary education opportunities. This year 58 scholarships were awarded to eligible candidates, 57% of whom are first-generation students.
“The hard work of our Diversity Committee continues to help identify opportunities for new initiatives, including today’s announced commitment towards STEM scholarships and internships for students at HBCUs. Increasing access to STEM opportunities for HBCU students is another important step to promote social and economic equity, as well as diversity, inclusion and belonging. Penn National is well positioned to be North America’s leading digital, entertainment, sports content, gaming, and technology company, and we look forward to supplementing these scholarships with real-life technical skills development for the STEM internship recipients.”
Penn National’s commitment to fund STEM scholarships and internship opportunities is an extension of the Company’s established partnerships with 33 HBCUs across the country. The ongoing collaboration with HBCUs facilitates career opportunities at Penn National’s properties while increasing participation in its Leadership Excellence at Penn National Gaming (“LEAP”) Program, which provides hands-on training, mentoring, and real world experience to new or recent college graduates who are interested in building a long term career in the gaming industry.
We are incredibly proud of our partnerships with HBCUs across the country,” said Justin Carter, Senior Vice President of Regional Operations for Penn National and Chairman of the Company’s Diversity Committee. “The STEM Scholarship Program is another important step in narrowing the representation gap in STEM fields among certain underrepresented communities.”
In honor of powerhouse lawyer and Howard University alumnus Vernon E. Jordan Jr., a well-known law firm will not only be renaming a library on campus, but adding several fellowships too! Get the full story from the Howard release below.
(Source: Howard University)
Akin Gump announced the launch of the Vernon E. Jordan Jr. Fellowship, which will offer a paid internship for two third-year Howard University law students – one in the Fall semester, and one in the Spring – to work with the firm’s public law and policy practice in Washington. The fellowship is named in honor of the late Howard University School of Law alumnus, civil rights icon and longtime Akin Gump partner. The firm also announced it had made a commitment to donate $1 million in support of the Howard School of Law’s Vernon E. Jordan Jr. Law Library.
“Despite Vernon Jordan’s singular influence and his vast individual capabilities, he recognized that the pursuit of one’s personal mission requires external support. Throughout his life, he was a humble recipient of help, especially as he so often worked behind the scenes on important projects, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand. No matter how high he climbed, he would always reach back to pull others forward,” said Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University. “We could not be more pleased to partner with Akin Gump through the Vernon E. Jordan Fellowship, and we are deeply appreciative of the firm’s generous donation to our law library. Through these actions, Akin Gump is helping preserve Vernon’s legacy of service and commitment to lifting up those around him.”
The University announced the renaming of its law library in honor of Jordan in March 2021, following his passing on March 1. Akin Gump’s donation will provide substantial support for preserving the rich collection and innovating the library for future generations of scholars.
“We are honored to have Akin Gump establish this prestigious fellowship in honor of Howard law alumnus Vernon Jordan Jr.,” said Howard University’s School of Law Dean Danielle Holley-Walker. “Mr. Jordan was a giant in the legal field and an inspiration for our law school community. He loved the law school and continues to be a guiding light for our students, faculty and alumni. We are deeply committed to celebrating Mr. Jordan’s legacy of excellence through this fellowship.”
Following his graduation from Howard School of Law, Jordan served as executive director of the United Negro College Fund and president of the National Urban League before joining Akin Gump in 1981, where he remained until his passing. Throughout his career, he served as a trusted adviser to presidents, governments and CEOs and was recognized as a towering figure in both the civil rights arena and corporate America.
Additional tributes to Mr. Jordan will include an endowed chair at Howard University’s School of Law in his honor to be announced at a later date.
Howard University President Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick (left) and Vernon E. Jordan Jr. Esq. (right) (Source: Howard University)
“Vernon Jordan left behind a rich and unequaled legacy of service and mentorship. Through his life’s work and boundless generosity, he touched the lives of so many, and I consider myself so fortunate to have called him my mentor and friend,” said Akin Gump chairperson Kim Koopersmith. “Through this fellowship and donation, we proudly support the Howard University School of Law’s efforts to carry forward Vernon’s tremendous legacy and ensure that his vision, commitment and sense of purpose will live on in the many students and future leaders who will pass through its doors.”
“Throughout his career, Vernon held a unique place at the nexus of the law, business and politics – and he did so while paving the way for me and so many others to follow in his footsteps and achieve success,” said Tony Pierce, partner in charge of Akin Gump’s Washington, D.C. office. “I cannot think of a better way to honor his remarkable legacy than by the establishment of this fellowship and this donation that will help support and nurture future generations of leaders.”
The Vernon E. Jordan Jr. Law Library’s mission is to excel in service by strengthening the Howard University School of Law community’s legal, research and educational goals through innovative programming, practice-oriented instruction and a collection across traditional and evolving formats. More information about the library may be found here.
“A fellowship in my father’s honor at Howard University School of Law, sponsored by Akin Gump, brings his love of the law and his work for economic equality together to benefit any number of current and future Howard law students,” said Vickee Jordan Adams, daughter of Vernon Jordan. “I speak for my stepmother, Ann, and our entire family when I say that we are proud to see this donation and commitment to aspiring professionals. My father took great pride in mentoring and supporting future generations, and I know he would be very pleased to see Howard University and Akin Gump— two institutions about which he cared deeply—following his lead with the Vernon E. Jordan Jr. Fellowship and donation.”
The Vernon E. Jordan Fellowship is one of several talent recruitment programs hosted by Akin Gump. These include the Akin Gump/Robert S. Strauss Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship Program, which brings promising law students to the firm to gain important substantive experience. This year, the firm welcomed its largest-ever class of Strauss Scholars. (Learn more here.)
A Tennessee State University student who will cross the stage and graduate this upcoming weekend is leaving a lasting mark on his community. While studying, he created an app that will help children with special needs create relationships that will impact them for a lifetime! Get the full story from Lucas Johnson in the TSU Newsroom release below.
Aram Abubaker was presented with a challenge. A friend who worked with children with special needs was looking for something that would help enhance their social skills. Abubaker responded: He made an app for that.
Credit: Tennessee State University/Twitter
On Saturday, Abubaker will join nearly 800 undergraduate and graduate students receiving various degrees at Tennessee State University’s Fall Commencement ceremony. Abubaker is getting a doctorate in computer engineering, where he improved his software developing skills that aided him in making the PeerKnect app.
According to the app’s website, 93 percent of parents or therapists say their child or client has difficulty finding social interactions. The app is intended to provide children with opportunities for connection and to help develop social skills which can increase confidence and autonomy.
“Many parents with special needs children have a problem finding play dates or finding friends for their kids because they have some kind of special need,” says Abubaker. “The app facilitates the process of connecting parents, therapists, and businesses that work with children with special needs.”
By teaching or enhancing their social skills, Abubaker says the kids can become “more engaged, and feel less isolated.”
Emily Bruce is a board-certified behavior analyst and Abubaker’s business partner. In her therapy practice, she says many parents with special needs children ask about ways for them to connect socially, have a play date. She says many of them were unaware of sensory friendly events in their area, like a local mall in Nashville, Tennessee, that allows kids with special needs to take pictures with Santa Claus on a certain day and time in December.
Source: Braille Works
“There are a lot of businesses out there that will host these events because they want families of children with special needs to be included,” says Bruce. “So, we wanted to add that as a feature (to the app) where businesses can post their events. And then of course we wanted to get these families connected either with another parent, or with a therapist. We’re getting users every day, and it’s really wonderful to see people respond to this.”
Roseanna Martinez is a special education teacher in Phoenix, Arizona, who has been teaching special needs children for more than 20 years. She says she likes the connectivity the app provides.
“I think it’s a really neat idea,” says Martinez. “One of the things I find interesting is that parents can link up with other families with kids like theirs. That not only gives kids an opportunity to socialize with people who understand them, but it also gives parents a bigger community to work with.”
“The other thing that appealed to me is the sensory friendly places,” adds Martinez. “That’s a big deal. You never know till you get to a place how it’s going to be and how the kids are going to react. So, it’s nice that they (parents) have a little insight into that before they take their kids out.”
Dr. Robbie Melton is dean of TSU’s Graduate School and Professional Studies and associate vice president of the university’s SMART Global Technology Innovation Center. She encouraged Abubaker to participate in the center’s “Everyone Can Code & Create” initiative, a partnership with Apple. The initiative improved Abubaker’s problem-solving skills, and aided him in finding solutions, such as developing PeerKnect.
“The Graduate School takes pride in providing both a supporting academic and social environment in helping students like Aram surpass their potential,” says Melton. “Aram is truly a role model!”
Abubaker says developing the app was hard work, but he believes it will help many people.
“I’ve spent hours working on this, and I’ve enjoyed the process, because I believe this is going to change people’s lives,” he says.
After a grueling lawsuit on behalf of Maryland HBCUs that lasted over a decade, HBCUs and nonprofits all over the country will receive funds from the ruling. Get the breaking news from Pamela Wood at The Baltimore Sun below.
Michael D. Jones, partner with Kirkland & Ellis in Washington, D.C. April 3, 2018. (Credit: Diego M. Radzinschi/ALM)
The law firm that represented Maryland’s historically Black universities in a long-running lawsuit against the state is donating $12.5 million to colleges and nonprofits from the fees it was awarded when the case settled.
The Kirkland & Ellis firm, led by attorney Michael D. Jones, represented alumni and supporters of Maryland’s historically Black colleges and universities as they challenged systemic underfunding of the schools by the state government. After a 15-year legal and political saga, the case was settled this year when state lawmakers approved hundreds of millions of dollars in extra funding for the HBCUs in future state budgets.
As part of the settlement, the state agreed to pay $22 million in legal fees and costs, with $12.5 million going to Kirkland & Ellis. The remainder went to the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law, which also provided legal representation for plaintiffs in the lawsuit.
Kirkland & Ellis is now sending all of the money it received back into the community because it took the lawsuit on a pro bono, or charitable, basis.
“So many of us became lawyers to fight injustice and give our clients a fair shake not only in the courtroom, but also in society. This case has allowed me, and my colleagues, to do just that,” Jones said in a statement. “I’m gratified by this entire experience, including knowing that this donation will go directly to helping future lawyers gain valuable experience and to fight for justice for others.”
People protesting at Morgan State University (Credit: Morgan State University)
$5 million to the Dillard University Center for Racial Justice in New Orleans to create an endowment that will fund paid internships for students at civil rights and public interest organizations.
$3 million to Morgan State University’s Robert M. Bell Center for Civil Rights in Education to fund the center’s racial justice initiatives and fellowships for students.
$2 million for the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law to establish a fellowship program for students including those studying law at HBCUs.
$1 million to the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education for fellowships and internships, particularly on Capitol Hill.
$600,000 to Howard University’s Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Center.
$600,000 to the Coalition for Equity and Excellence in Maryland Higher Education, which is the group that brought the HBCU lawsuit in Maryland.
$250,000 to the African Methodist Episcopal Church Second District for advocacy work and scholarships for HBCU students.
Under the law sponsored by House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones that was passed this year, for the next decade, an extra $57.7 million per year will be divided among the state’s four public HBCUs: Coppin State University and Morgan State University in Baltimore, Bowie State University and the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore in Princess Anne.
University leaders have been working on plans for how to spend the money, which will start flowing in 2023. Ideas include expanding academic programs for in-demand fields such as technology and healthcare, providing more services and financial aid to low-income students and expanding graduate and certificate programs.
Florida A&M University football isn’t looking to slow down anytime soon! Get the full story about their chart-topping success in the story from Kylah Thompson at The Famuan below.
Credit: Florida A&M University
After seven straight wins, FAMU Football boasts the best record (8-2) for any college football team in Florida for the 2021 season. FAMU football also earned national acclaim after ranking 25th in the CBS Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Power Rankings for week 11.
According to CBS, FAMU has what it takes to be bound for the playoffs despite experiencing a lag in early season momentum.
“The Rattlers have excellent speed on the perimeter,” reads the Top 25 list. “[They are] proving to be a matchup problem for anyone they face.”
According to Coach Willie Simmons, despite recent influxes of praise, the team has no plans to slow down anytime soon. He credits the team’s unwavering success to players’ discipline and focus both on and off the field.
“It’s about not being complacent,” Simmons said. “For us, it’s about setting our eyes on the process and not only the result. I feel like if we do that we’ll continue to have the results that take us higher.”
Rattlers and foes alike have praised Simmons for his tenacity that gets results. Simmons also acknowledged the quality of his players and their commitment to the legacy of FAMU Football.
“Recruiting defensive athletes is a huge part of what we do,” Simmons said. “When these young men can see the FAMU brand being highlighted on national television and major networks, it only helps our cause in attracting top athletes.”
Defensive Cornerback Guysen Bohler couldn’t be happier that he brought his talents to the FAMU football program to play for Simmons.
“I chose FAMU for the HBCU atmosphere,” Bohler said. “I’ve always wanted to be a part of the local culture to enjoy the experience and everything has met my expectations.”
Bohler also reflected on the chemistry that exists within the team that has helped them to maintain stride. He noted their resilience after making mistakes as their greatest strength at the moment.
“Team morale is high,” Bohler said. “Despite our two losses, we’ve been getting right with the little things, and honing in on our fundamentals.”
Bohler also expressed that the team’s ascent to being a national hot topic once again is as exciting as it is affirming. He wants the country to know that HBCUs are hotbeds for athletic greatness like no other.
“It’s a surreal feeling,” Bohler said. “It makes you feel like you’re at one of those big-time schools because we are. We’re just as capable and just as talented, and the only thing stopping us is us.”
The administration and accreditation committee members celebrated the news of Oakwood’s initial accreditation in 1958 by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. (Credit: Oakwood University)
November 16, 1896, is a date that will forever live in the sacred history of Seventh-day Adventist mission. On this date, the Oakwood Industrial School in Huntsville, Alabama, United States, opened its doors to 16 students.
On November 16, 2021, Oakwood University is celebrating its 125th birthday. For more than a century, Oakwood University has launched thousands of graduates into orbits of service around the corner and the world.
Today, Oakwood University, a historically Black Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher learning, offers high-quality Christian education that emphasizes academic excellence; promotes harmonious development of mind, body, and spirit; and prepares leaders in service for God and humanity.
The school’s motto, shared by faculty and students, is Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve. In everything it does, the school believes and practices God First, its current slogan. Consistent with its mission statement, Oakwood University is in the business of transforming lives — both for now and, more importantly, for eternity.
While the many accomplishments of Oakwood University are legendary, at its very beginning, prospects were less than promising. In 1895, church leaders G. A. Irwin, O. A. Olsen, and N. Lindsey traveled to Huntsville, Alabama, looking for land for an industrial school authorized by the General Conference. From the start, Adventist Church co-founder Ellen White championed Oakwood’s cause and is unquestionably worthy of the title “co-founder of Oakwood.”
In a letter (no. 313) written in 1904, White wrote, “It was in the providence of God that the Huntsville school farm was purchased.” As it grew from its meager beginnings, she continuously spoke out for the school, doing all in her power to make sure it prospered. She wrote, visited, prodded, sacrificed, prayed, donated, advocated, and cried for the fledgling institution to ever fulfill its God-given destiny.
A Plantation Farmer’s Property
The more than 350 acres purchased in 1896 were property owned by plantation farmer Peter Blow. Among the slaves owned by Blow was one named Dred, who would become famous for his role in the Dred Scott case. (Blow’s son, Taylor, gave Dred Scott his freedom in 1857.)
On the former slave plantation, the Alabama landscape was sloping and uneven; the red clay was hard as granite; the soil was barren from having been overworked; dense brush encircled the property; tree limbs sagged. It took vision and faith to see a future in this unpromising plot in the heart of the American South, 30 years after the Civil War.
The 65 towering oak trees on the original property inspired the name of this new institution. The Oakwood Industrial School opened its doors on November 16, 1896, with a principal, three teachers, and 16 students. As academic offerings expanded over the years and the number of students and staff increased, so Oakwood underwent changes in its name.
The school was named the Oakwood Industrial School from 1896 to 1904, and then it became known as the Oakwood Manual Training School, the name from 1904 to 1917. Then the school was called Oakwood Junior College from 1917 to 1945 and was Oakwood College from 1945 to 2008.
In 1943, Oakwood received its first accreditation, as a junior college, while already in the process of seeking senior college status. Fifteen years later, in 1958, it was accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award associate and baccalaureate degrees.
The institution was named Oakwood University on January 1, 2008, when the school achieved university status after adding its first graduate program, the Master of Arts degree in pastoral studies.
As the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) member institution in northern Alabama, Oakwood participates in and benefits from UNCF’s fund-raising campaigns, including scholarships, as well as access to international educational opportunities.
Oakwood University continues to view education as indispensable in preparation for wider service to God and the human family. Oakwood University president Leslie Pollard said, “For 125 years, Oakwood has advanced the mission of Seventh-day Adventist education, creating competent Christian professionals for servant leadership. Since 1896 we have been in the blessed business of transforming lives.”
Principal administrators from Oakwood’s early, pre-college years were Solon Jacobs (1896), H. S. Shaw (1897-1899), B. E. Nicola (1899-1904), F. R. Rogers (1904-1905), G. H. Baber (1905-1906), W. J. Blake (1906-1911), and Clarence J. Boyd (1911-1917).
Presidential administrators of Oakwood’s college and university years were J. I. Beardsley (1917-1923), James L. Moran (1932-1945), Frank L. Peterson (1945-1954), Garland J. Millet (1954-1963), Addison V. Pinkney (1963-1966), Frank W. Hale (1966-1971), Calvin B. Rock (1971-1985), Emerson A. Cooper (Fall 1985), Benjamin F. Reaves (1985-1996), Delbert W. Baker (1996-2010), Mervyn A. Warren (Fall 2010), and Leslie N. Pollard (2011 to present).
Community Impact
The university has tremendous impact on the local community, hosting, since 1946, the annual Camp Meeting for the South Central Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, a 10-day spiritual, educational, and recreational retreat, accommodating 8,000 to 10,000 attendees in pre-pandemic years.
From its inception through the late 1960s, Oakwood operated a variety of businesses, including a laundry that supported both Huntsville and the Redstone Arsenal. “As part of the school’s industry recovery initiative, Oakwood operates two Edible Arrangements franchise stores, the Oakwood Farms Market, and the Oakwood University Memorial Gardens Cemetery. This initiative helps the university keep its tuition low by turning funds back to the campus, employing students, and teaching them the value of entrepreneurship,” Pollard noted. “One of the university’s goals is to reduce reliance on student tuition as the sole source of revenue. Profits from these industries support student scholarships and overall educational needs.”
Returning to its agricultural roots in 2017, Oakwood opened an organic urban farm, set to become the largest of its kind in northern Alabama. Oakwood intends to contribute to the natural food options in the surrounding community, which has been labeled a “food desert.” The university also opened the Oakwood Farms Market in 2020, which offers fresh produce and a variety of plant-based products. The market is a practical way of promoting a healthy lifestyle based on biblical principles.
Oakwood University’s initiative is part of a larger contemporary trend that highlights the importance of organic vegetable farming for human health and general well-being. Following advice by church co-founder Ellen White, Seventh-day Adventists have long advocated for a plant-based diet and useful outdoor work as ways of keeping body and mind healthy.
Oakwood University president Leslie Pollard and his wife, Prudence , stand near the Oakwood University mobile Market, which helps to address food insecurities in Huntsville, Alabama (Credit: Oakwood University)
Recent Developments
Healthy Campus 2020 (HC2020) is Oakwood University’s organized initiative to empower students to make healthy choices. This program was established as a response to the problem of preventable diseases, which affect the students. Healthy Campus 2020 has helped educate the campus regarding healthy lifestyle decisions, utilizing the eight laws of health to foster a holistic approach to a healthy mind, body, and soul. The goal of Healthy Campus 2020 is to make Oakwood University the healthiest campus in America.
The university has expanded the initiative to Healthy Campus, Healthy Community, by partnering with the Huntsville Hospital System to build and operate the Oakwood University Community Health Action Center adjacent to the campus at the corner of Sparkman Drive and Bronco Circle.
The center will encompass an ambulatory care clinic operated by the Huntsville Hospital within the Health Action Center. Oakwood students, employees, and community residents will have access to high-quality care at the walk-in clinic. Establishing this facility will also allow continuity of care from the walk-in clinic to in-patient care at Huntsville Hospital.
“Huntsville Hospital Health System is very pleased to work with Oakwood University in bringing this dream to fruition. The clinic will provide important health services to people throughout this community,” David Spillers, CEO of Huntsville Hospital Health System, said at a lease-signing event in February 2021.
“The Community Health Action Center launches Oakwood’s community-facing phase of our nationally-recognized Healthy Campus 2020 campus wellness initiative,” Pollard said. “Our event today underscores our Healthy Campus, Healthy Community commitment to our community. This vision began with a request from yours truly to the CEO of Huntsville Hospital to consider a partnership with Oakwood to transform the health outcomes of Northwest Huntsville.
“Oakwood University has been in the Huntsville community for 125 years, and so has Huntsville Hospital. Together, we plan to bring health and healing to the morbidities affecting the citizens of northwest Huntsville. The partnership today between Huntsville Hospital and Oakwood University is designed to improve the health status of underserved citizens of the city of Huntsville,” Pollard said.
“The completion of Oakwood’s 10,000-square-foot Community Health Action Center does not only deliver health care on one side of our facility — the other side of our facility houses real-life service-learning activities for our students and faculty as they deliver health education, nutrition education, job skills training, and the services of our Mobile Food Market. Faculty have planned life-skills classes, and after-school learning supports to children,” Pollard said.
Proposed development at Railroad Corner in Orangeburg, South Carolina is being welcomed by Claflin University students looking to have more excitement around campus! Get the full story from Gene Zaleski at The Times and Democrat below.
University of North Carolina School of Government Development Finance Initiative Project Manager Sonyia Turner discusses the proposed Railroad Corner redevelopment project with Claflin University freshman Angel Lumar. (Credit: Gene Zaleski)
Claflin University students say they’re pleased the City of Orangeburg is planning to redevelop Railroad Corner, and they’re hopeful the plans bring more opportunities for students.
“It is a really good idea,” senior Erykah Weldon said Monday.
“Orangeburg has two HBCU’s or two colleges and there is not a lot to do in Orangeburg at all. That is why it is so crazy. This should be more of a college town, really. They should attend to their students,” she said.
The Summerville resident said she and many of her friends travel outside Orangeburg to find outlets that are attractive for college students.
“We go to Charleston or Columbia to even find stuff,” she said. “We don’t even have a movie theater or anything. There really is not much to do besides on campus and the food offerings are not that good either.”
City of Orangeburg officials went to Claflin’s campus on Monday as part of an effort to talk with students about the proposed redevelopment of Railroad Corner.
The city is seeking input on three scenarios for the redevelopment of Railroad Corner, which is bounded by Russell Street, Boulevard Street and Magnolia Street.
Claflin freshman Angel Lumar said redevelopment would be great.
“It is an old area. Kids don’t really have much do to other than bad things, so it is giving them something to look forward to and be proud of with their college town,” she said.
Lumar, who lives on campus, says there are not many places to hang out in Orangeburg except for campus, Cloud Nine and houses that university students rent.
“There is not much for us to do,” Lumar said. “There are not many movie theaters.”
She’d also like more food options.
“That would be great to have new restaurants and new foods to choose from,” she said.
Claflin junior Timothy Outing said the redevelopment, “will bring a lot to Orangeburg.”
Outing said when he is not on campus, he typically hangs out at Cook-Out.
“Along that strip would probably be the best place to add restaurants,” Outing said.
Orangeburg needs more to keep college students here during college and after graduation, such as “bowling alleys, movie theaters,” he said.
Outing said he is happy the MAX Family Entertainment Center has opened on Red Bank Road, but says there needs to be something in the city or within walking distance for students.
“If you open up more attractions, that will allow more students to come to the universities,” he said. That “will allow Orangeburg to grow.”
Crossing the railroad tracks is a problem, Outing said.
“I remember doing that my freshman year,” he said. “I think that is the only problem with some freshmen, depending on what type of connections they have.”
Outing said the tracks can be dangerous and that something should be done to improve safety for both motorists and pedestrians.
Claflin junior Nya Grantham said she likes the idea of the corner being developed.
“I think that it would be beneficial for college students because some of us don’t have cars or other resources to go to Columbia or Charleston,” Grantham said. “The fact is that is closer, like walking distance. It would be beneficial to us students.”
Grantham said she feels safe around the railroad tracks and says signs are visible.
“Just go in groups and be safe,” she said.
Community public input meetings were also scheduled for Monday evening and Tuesday morning. The Tuesday meeting will be held at 9 a.m. at the City Gym at 410 Broughton Street in Orangeburg.
Three development scenarios have been proposed for Railroad Corner based on information provided at public engagement sessions.
The three development scenarios are:
• Scenario A — Preserve and infill: The primary objective is to preserve all the buildings on the site and restore them with targeted retail and commercial uses and overlaying the area with mixed uses and residential uses. Tax credits would be available under this scenario.
The scenario includes:
– Commercial space: 19,300 square feet
– Apartments: 35,800 square feet
– Cultural: 6,700 square feet
– Parking spaces: 124
– Total development cost: $16 million
– Anticipated public investment: $4.5 to $5 million
The scenario would add a six-story, mixed-use development with ground-floor commercial and upper-story residential. Under this scenario, the former State Theater would be a potential museum or cultural space.
The scenario would preserve the service station building along Russell Street and include multi-family units along Treadwell Street.
Scenario A’s program is limited in size due to the preservation of all historic structures. Therefore, this program adds height at the intersection of Russell and Boulevard streets to create a project that could be attractive to a private developer.
As the smallest program with the most preservation, Scenario A will require the most public investment to be feasible.
• Scenario B — Reuse and energize: The primary objective would keep some historic elements on the site, but not necessarily the buildings.
This scenario would reallocate building facades or foundations or materials in new ways that aim to activate the site and give it a sense of nostalgia, maintain the sense of place and history, but provide the benefit of some new architecture.
This design would open up the site, creating walk-through opportunities with urban and plaza spaces combined with retail.
The design would allow individuals to walk to Railroad Corner or arrive there as a destination.
More specifics under this scenario:
– Commercial space: 14,300 square feet
– Apartments: 51,200 square feet
– Cultural: 6,700 square feet
– Parking spaces: 132
– Total development cost: $18.2 million
– Anticipated public investment: $4.5 million to $5 million
Scenario B preserves the State Theater building, the building adjacent to it to the north, and preserves the facades of the shops along Russell Street.
Scenario B adds a four-story, mixed-use development with ground-floor commercial and upper-story residential. Scenario B reimagines the former State Theater building as a cultural space (potential museum), extends multifamily units along Treadwell Street and redevelops the former gas station into new commercial space.
Scenario B allows for a slightly larger program than Scenario A. However, due to the preservation of some of the existing buildings, Scenario B will still need similar public investment as Scenario A to be feasible.
• Scenario C — Regenerate and overlay: Building entirely new.
This design scenario would incorporate and maintain pedestrian areas and add a mixed-use development. There would also be more flexibility when it comes to building footprints and parking.
A new build would still aim to focus on the use of materials with an eye toward the area’s history.
More specifics under this scenario:
– Commercial space: 11,400 square feet
– Apartments: 62,400 square feet
– Cultural: 6,700 square feet
– Parking spaces: 132
– Total development cost: $18 million
– Anticipated public investment: $4 million to $4.5 million
Scenario C assumes that none of the existing buildings can be preserved due to structural or cost reasons.
Scenario C adds a four-story, mixed-use development with ground floor commercial and upper-story residential.
Scenario C includes a new cultural space (potential museum) where the former State Theater is located, extends multifamily units along Treadwell Street and redevelops the former gas station into new commercial space.
To align with the guiding public interests, Scenario C would incorporate murals and other artistic elements to integrate the rich history of the Railroad Corner site.
Scenario C can support a larger program and will require the least amount of public investment to be feasible.
The effort
The City of Orangeburg engaged the University of North Carolina’s School of Government Development Finance Initiative in December 2020 to analyze the redevelopment feasibility of the corner, and assist with attracting private investment for the redevelopment of the site.
Since August of this year, both the city and DFI engaged project architect Perkins & Will to help refine and update the development scenarios.
Following the public input sessions, DFI will present its findings to Orangeburg City Council for the selection of a final preferred development plan.
Orangeburg City Council will vote on the development plan. The plan will then be taken to a private development firm to build it out.
If you’re interested in taking your education in business to the next level, you may want to take a good look at Morris BrownCollege! Learn how MBA graduates are helping Morris Brown students earn similar accomplishments in the story from staff at The Atlanta Journal below.
Credit: Bita Honarvar
Morris Brown College boasts a new mentorship program that matches local MBA professionals from eight prestigious schools with its growing base of diverse students. The inaugural program will support a select number of full-time juniors and seniors along with a unique cohort of first year students from the College’s adult education program.
“This wonderful opportunity offers an educational and mutually beneficial experience for both the mentor and mentee, and Morris Brown is excited and motivated to bring it to fruition,” said Dr. Kevin James, president of Morris Brown College
Mentors are expected to provide student participants exposure to new career & industry possibilities as well as general business guidance, including insights into various functional areas, best practices of networking, and interviewing strategies.
Terry Comer, a Morris Brown College graduate (2003) and Harvard Business School alumnus (2006) is helping to spearhead the program alongside an impressive grouping of local MBA alumni.
“I’m excited to support Morris Brown’s resurgence, particularly given how instrumental the College was in my personal development as a business leader. This program has tremendous potential and would not be possible without the broader Atlanta MBA community being so generous of their time,” Comer said.
The collection of mentors represents a diverse group of our nation’s most respected MBA programs. All of the mentors hold senior leadership positions within established startups to Fortune 500 companies, spanning a variety of industries from retail to digital infrastructure. Together, these talented MBAs with a wide range of professional experiences and backgrounds, including 10 who are Presidents of their companies, are coming together to exclusively support Morris Brown College after its recent accreditation candidacy announcement.
At the conclusion of the first 8-month period, mentors and mentees are expected to complete surveys to best evaluate the program’s impact as well as identify future opportunities for expansion and improvement. The objective is to continue to serve the College for many years to come as Morris Brown expands its enrollment.
Michael Lavelle Wines supports art, philanthropy, and more!
Purchases in the wine and spirits industry have been on the rise amid the pandemic, but how many consumers know what they’re drinking? It’s not always easy to find a quality bottle for a low price. But of course, four HBCU alumni found a way! The resulting product is Michael Lavelle Wines, a black-owned wine brand being sold around the country.
The bond of Howard University graduates Terrence Lavelle Low, Aaron Michael Coad, Brandon Crump, and their business partner Devin Kennedy, who they met while in school, grew tighter thanks to a mutual appreciation for wine and entrepreneurship. Their journey to creating a trustworthy brand began with heavy research into the history of wine, winemaking and the state of the wine industry at the time. They found that their peers tended to educate themselves more on drinks like tequila and vodka, and sought to bridge the gap. They also sought to expose minority wine drinkers to culturally relevant wine craftsmanship. To bring a refreshing new wine to the market, the founders “took creative license to develop a disruptive brand fused with art, education, and most importantly, unmatched wine experiences to fill this void.” With the founders having careers in industries from technology to fashion, they all brought something different to the finished product. Together, they were able to work through bottle shortages and other obstacles in the pandemic to emerge with a product they were proud of.
Launched on Juneteenth in 2020, Michael Lavelle Wines hit the market by choosing Iris Rosé as the brand’s first varietal. “We strategically launched the Iris Rosé as the first varietal because of consumer trends and timing,” said the team. “In fact, according to NielsenIQ, sales of rosé wine in the US increased from $110 million in 2017 to $757 million year to date May 22, 2021. This is a stunning 584% increase.” Iris Rosé was created with cabarnet and pinot grigio grapes from coastal California. The tantalizing flavor has fruity notes of fresh strawberries, morello cherries, and lemon verbana. In the first nine months after launching, the rose became the winery partner’s best-selling e-commerce brand!
For many reasons, Michael Lavelle Wines is blossoming into the high quality, premium wine brand that the founders had dreamed it’d be. The team was intentional about only partnering with small batch wineries, which make it easier to ensure the integrity of every bottle’s flavor is maintained. And while sales are doing well online, the brand is available in states around the country with high concentrations of Black communities: Washington, DC; Chicago, IL; Richmond, VA; and Inglewood, CA. In fact, many of the brand’s first retail partners were Black-owned businesses! All the commercial success has even allowed the brand to partner with nonprofits like “The Roots Fund.” Some proceeds for each bottle purchased online go toward a scholarship fund helping an HBCU graduate to live abroad in France to earn an MBA in Wine Business and Management!
Always looking to level up, the team banded together to open an art gallery “We’re proud of our latest expansion, Gallery Lavelle, which elevates emerging and prominent contemporary artists creating work in the scope of African, Black American, and indigenous identity,” they said. Through solo and group exhibitions, Gallery Lavelle was created to encourage dialogue amongst artists, winemakers, and communities they serve. All the while, the platform promotes the visibility and elevation of historically underrepresented groups. Created as an ode to the richness of culture in the founders’ hometowns of Chicago and Washington, DC, local artists in those areas are now receiving a well-deserved spotlight.
To learn more about the founders and the brand, check out the website, Instagram, and Twitter pages of Michael Lavelle Wines today!
