An Alcorn State University alumna has been elected as an Alderwoman in Fayette, Mississippi! The appointment means she was elected by the residents in that city to work with the mayor and uplift the needs of her constituents. Learn more about her and the work she plans to do in the ASU release below!
Ella Hudson elected as an alderwoman for the city of Fayette.
The citizens of Fayette, Mississippi, have chosen one of Alcorn State University’s own to be a leader in its community.
Ella Hudson, director of Judicial Affairs and Student Conduct, was voted as an alderwoman in the city of Fayette. Her duties include implementing city ordinances and overseeing Fayette’s fire, maintenance, police, parks and recreation, and public works departments.
Before being elected a city official, Hudson served multiple organizations that include the Fayette Day and AJFC Parent committees. She currently serves as a board member of the Jefferson County Comprehensive Health Center and is a member of the Mississippi Tobacco-Free Coalition, among other things.
Community involvement is vital for Hudson. Her idea of a thriving community is one filled with people enthused about making their community better.
“I have always been active in my community,” said Hudson. “So, when God placed it on my heart to pursue this position, I was obedient. I feel everyone has a part to play. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes everyone to help make their community a better place.”
Attending meetings, workshops, conferences, and networking with seasoned officials is helping Hudson acquire knowledge to execute her plans to enhance the city.
“Getting informed will help me to put my platform into action. My plans include working with the community to beautify our city, obtain better pay and benefits for city employees, and improve city infractions. Also, I want the city of Fayette to partner with Alcorn because I’ve always longed for Fayette to become a college town.”
Hudson holds being an elected official in high regard. She’s proud to lead by helping others.
“I am honored and thankful to hold such a prestigious position. Serving my community brings me joy, for I am my brother’s keeper.”
A young Howard University student saw a lack of gourmet vegan options in Washington, D.C. and got to work! Get the delicious full story Kayla Pasko from VegOut Magazine.
Credit: Kayla Pasko
Last March, Chanice McClover-Lee, a 19-year old Howard University student, launched Baked by Chanice, a gourmet vegan treat company that specializes in cookies and custom cakes. The young entrepreneur began selling baked goods at farmers markets in her hometown of South Florida, and after a successful launch, McClover-Lee is now relocating the business to a food hall and commercial kitchen in DC’s Brookland neighborhood. The new shop is set to open on May 22-23 at 1pm, and will operate on weekends for takeout only.
“In March 2020, hundreds of millions of people were stuck in the house [in] a global quarantine. So, what did then 17-year-old me decide to do with my spare time? I got in the kitchen and [started] baking. After one bake sale, the overwhelmingly positive community response led to the creation of Baked by Chanice. It is Baked by Chanice’s goal to transform the meaning and perception of what vegan can taste like for all customers, one soft and crispy cookie—or moist and fluffy cake—at a time!” McClover-Lee told VegOut.
The menu features unique cookie flavors such as s’mores, red velvet cheesecake, birthday cake, and chocolate chip coconut walnut. Guests can also order custom cakes and cupcakes, which are available in vanilla, chocolate, funfetti, red velvet, lemon, cookies & cream, carrot, and coconut varieties.
In addition to the flagship shop, Baked by Chanice will be selling both cookies and cakes at the SW DC Farmers Market on Saturdays beginning May 29. Guests can also order through the bakery’s website, which offers nationwide shipping.
Baked by Chanice is located inside Tastemakers at 2800 10th St NE, Washington, DC 20017. To place online orders visit BakedByChanice.com, or follow @bakedbychanice on Instagram for all of the latest updates!
Alabama State University, Florida A&MUniversity, and J.F. Drake State Technical College made the recipient list among several institutions each receiving $1.2 million grant to increase diversity in engineering. Get the full story from the NASA release below.
Graduation ceremony of the 2017 class of Astronaut Candidates. Photographer: James Blair
Creating a future for humanity in the stars and continuing to improve life on Earth are tasks NASA can only achieve by involving all of humanity. To challenge the barriers to entry for students from diverse backgrounds in engineering, NASA’s Minority University Research and Education Project, or MUREP, called upon Minority Serving Institutions to develop proposals for how they could use NASA funding to strengthen their support for underrepresented communities.kn;
Today, NASA has chosen six universities to win the MUREP Inclusion Across the Nation of Communities of Learners of Underrepresented Discoverers in Engineering and Science, or INCLUDES, award. Each award provides up to $1.2 million for a three-year period to implement the institution’s proposal.
The selected institutions and their proposed projects are:
Alabama State University
Developing NASA Pathways to Engineering and Experiential Research for Student Success: NASA PEERSS
In order to help close the gap of racial inequality in engineering, Alabama State University, or ASU, in Montgomery, Alabama, is implementing the Developing Emergent Engineers and Physicists, or DEEP, Program with the goal of engaging STEM subject matter experts, professional organizations, social science researchers, and industry partners to create a supportive community of engineering learners. ASU was awarded $1,198,937.75 as a three-year budget for its proposal.
Florida A&M University
Broadening Participation of Next Generation Aerospace Engineers Through Traineeship and Workforce Development Program
Focusing on increasing representation in research related to aerospace systems and technologies, the proposal led by Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida, will establish a multi-institution coalition to recruit underrepresented groups for a program that will give hands-on experience to students in NASA-relevant fields. In addition to Florida A&M University, this coalition includes the University of Central Florida, Florida State University, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and four NASA centers. Florida A&M University was awarded $1,199,977.00 as a three-year budget for its proposal.
J.F. Drake State Technical College
Drake State Engineering Frontiers Coalition
The Drake State Engineering Frontiers Coalition, proposed by J.F. Drake State Technical College in Huntsville, Alabama, tackles the issue of representation by starting with students in secondary and postsecondary education. By coordinating with NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, aerospace industry partners, other government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and more, the coalition will engage students starting as early as 8th grade and continue supporting them through graduate programs through activities such as summer bridge programs, professional development and research opportunities, mentoring, and more. J.F. Drake State Technical College was awarded $1,189,200.00 as a three-year budget for its proposal.
Navajo Technical College
Broadening Participation in Engineering, Robotics and Computer Science using Zero Robotics on Astrobee
To broaden participation from Indigenous and Hispanic students in computer science and space robotics activities, the Navajo Technical College has proposed the Consortium for Hispanic and Indigenous Education on Robotics in Space, or CHIERS. In partnership with a variety of other institutions, including the Zero Robotics STEM program, it will provide a platform to share strategies and best practices in diversifying the field. The proposal also suggests a programming competition modelled after previous competitions by Zero Robotics, building on a decade of experience. Such a competition would allow participation from middle and high school to university students and give participants the chance to have a hands-on experience with space robotics in a microgravity environment. The Navajo Technical College was awarded $1,179,882.24 as a three-year budget for its proposal.
Texas A&M Kingsville
Proactive Pathways of Excellence to Engage Minority Students in Aerospace Engineering
In an effort to broaden participation among underrepresented minorities, especially Hispanic and female students in South Texas, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, or TAMU-K, in Kingsville has proposed the Proactive Pathways of Excellence to Engage Minority Students in Aerospace Engineering program. In the long-term, the program aims to develop the first Aerospace Engineering Bachelor of Science program in South Texas and use partnerships with a variety of institutions to broaden participation of historically underserved groups – a necessity to accomplish the goal of returning to the Moon and traveling on to Mars. TAMU-K was awarded $1,200,000.00 as a three-year budget for its proposal.
University of Massachusetts, Boston
Partners Aligned To Heighten Broad Participation in STEM
As the only funded research-intensive minority serving institution in New England, the University of Massachusetts, Boston, has sought to reflect on how systemic racism impacts STEM fields in reaction to recent conversations around the movement for racial justice. The Partners Aligned to Heighten Broad Participation in STEM, or PATHS, program proposed by UMass Boston aims to provide a variety of paths into engineering. By working with a coalition of partner institutions, using metrics to identify gaps in representation, telling the stories of diverse student perspectives, enhancing existing opportunities, and fostering a sense of belonging among Black, Indigenous, and people of color within the engineering community, PATHS seeks to knock down the barriers that have blocked participation. UMass Boston was awarded $1,200,000.00 as a three-year budget for its proposal.
The Minority University Research and Education Project is administered through the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Office of STEM Engagement. MUREP’s Inclusion Across the Nation of Communities of Learners of Underrepresented Discoverers in Engineering and Science program amplifies the National Science Foundation’s INCLUDES efforts.
Making healthy food choices is just a little easier for Central State University students and community members thanks to a mobile food bank! Learn more about the power of healthy food access in the Dalton Daily News article below.
For students who are in college, eating junk food is tempting and easy.
That is just one reason why, on the second Tuesday of each month, Central State University offers a mobile food bank called The Community Marketplace. It offers better food for students who might otherwise make less healthy choices or even run out of food by the end of the month, plus it helps local community members in need.
Central State University Counseling Services student volunteer Henry Gray said it is easiest to eat what is cheapest or to “make really poor choices of food items that your body does not need.”
“Nowadays, ‘going healthy’ with food choices can be expensive,” Gray said. “The Community Marketplace tries to provide fresh vegetables, fruits, bread and other healthy items for students to pick from as opposed to the junk we might normally pick.”
CSU partners with local food banks, Kroger, the Montgomery County Human Services Department, the USDA, the United Way and other contributors, to offer the mobile pantry.
Gray said the healthier food isn’t always what a student likes the most, “but I know it’s what we need, so I take it with a smile, and eventually end up trying something new, that is probably better for my eating habits anyway.”
Students said the pantry is a helpful resource the campus provides.
Joseph Smith is not only a student at CSU but also is a year-long volunteer for The Community Marketplace.
“I like the cause, it is free, plus I am all for community service,” Smith said.
Volunteer workers for the mobile pantry said they love to give back and serve, and they would like to see the program become a more well-known resource for more students and for local community members.
Mobile Pantry Manager Andy Macy said, “The program itself has been around for 8-9 years, and around 3 years specifically at CSU. All of the food is fresh from local farm markets, the state of Ohio, federal government, and by donation. We try to ensure that each person walks away with one meat, bakery and shelf items.”
The Community Marketplace is run from Central State University’s Ward Center, 14000 Brush Row Road, Wilberforce. All food distributed is free of cost, and all people are welcome from 1:30-2:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month.
Cheyney University in Philadelphia continues to forge partnerships for the benefit of its student body and the world at large. Now get the full story on how Cheyney is going to build up the food systems and economy in Ghana in the story from Susan Snyder from The Philadelphia Inquirer below.
Students walk around campus at Cheyney University. (Credit: Jose F. Moreno/The Philadelphia Inquirer)
Cheyney University, a historically black college in Pennsylvania’s state system, will partner with a new university in Ghana on a student, faculty, and cultural exchange program, but first it will help the university attain its accreditation by offering expertise on a program it wants to start.
The partnership with the soon-to-be-built Oboseke University of Excellence in the Asebu Kingdom of Ghana’s Central Region is Cheyney’s first international collaboration with another school, said Cheyney president Aaron A. Walton.
Cheyney will share its expertise in aquaculture and aquaponics — a food production system that combines raising aquatic animals with cultivating plants in water — with Oboseke, which wants to start tilapia fish farming and other aquaculture programs. Ghana’s accreditation board requires a mentor relationship with a university that has an established program in an area of interest, Kwa David Whitaker, Oboseke’s rector, said in a news release. Cheyney, which just a few years ago was struggling with financial and enrollment woes and fighting to keep its own accreditation, will provide that mentoring.
“To be able to share our experience and knowledge with this emerging African university, and potentially help the people of Ghana develop a more accessible food supply, is an extremely significant opportunity for us, a tribute to our academic excellence, and an honor,” Walton said.
Oboseke in return will provide resources to Cheyney including land on the Ghana campus for projects of interest to both schools. An official from Oboseke will visit Cheyney in a couple of weeks, Walton said. He expects exchanges to begin in about a year.
“Students who may be interested in studying abroad can spend a semester at this university and learn what’s going on there and vice versa,” said Walton, who has led the 650-student university that straddles Delaware and Chester Counties for four years.
The relationship came about after officials from Oboseke contacted Steven G. Hughes, a Cheyney biology professor and director of the Aquaculture Research and Education Laboratory, who is helping Oboseke plan its program, Walton said. Cheyney grows tilapia on campus and the waste generated fertilizes basil, which is sold to local grocery store chains, he said.
Tilapia is a major food source in Ghana, and the country currently gets much of its supply from China, according to Whitaker. The university wants to help the country develop its own source.
Cheyney also has been cultivating partnerships closer to home. Last year, it welcomed to campus the Camden-based Sure-BioChem Laboratories LLC, which provides microbial and chemistry testing services. The university signed an agreement with the company to operate a lab on campus. In January 2020, the university announced that ASI Chemicals, a start-up company that manufactures chemicals used in pharmaceuticals, would operate on campus.
Epcot Crenshaw Corp., an environmental technology solutions company; Navrogen, a bio-pharma research and development firm that works on cancer research; and Advanced Alchemy Labs, a company that grows and processes hemp for medical purposes, are among others.
West Virginia State University has a new leader on campus! Learn about the dynamic woman who will lead WVSU’s academic affairs in the release below.
Dr. J. Paige Carney has been named interim provost and vice president for academic affairs for West Virginia State University (WVSU) effective immediately.’
Carney has served as dean of the College of Professional Studies since 2015, in addition to serving as interim associate provost for WVSU since fall 2020.
Under her leadership as dean of the College of Professional Studies, several of the college’s programs, including criminal justice, education, health and human performance, and social work have achieved national recognition. The college also oversees the university’s storied Military Science (ROTC) program. In fall 2020 the college also launched a new bachelor of science in nursing degree program.
“I have worked with President Nicole Pride since her arrival at the university last fall and see her as a strong leader who cares deeply about the university,” said Carney. “I look forward to working with her and her leadership team to achieve the university’s mission of advancing knowledge through access and opportunity, innovative teaching and learning, interdisciplinary research, and impactful service.”
Since 2011, Carney has been a professor of education at WVSU and also previously served as the director of clinical experiences. She has also served as counselor to Kappa Delta Pi, the international honor society in education. Carney previously taught at WVSU from 1996 through 2004 as an associate professor of education.
In addition to her work at WVSU, Carney was chair of the education program and an associate professor of education at the University of Charleston from 2007 through May 2011, as well as an associate professor of education at Eastern Kentucky University from 2004 through 2005. She has also served as an Adjunct Professor with the Marshall University Graduate College.
Carney has also served as the external facilitator for reading for Kanawha County Schools from 2000 through 2004. From 2005 through 2010 she worked as a lecturer and researcher for the University of Kentucky serving as Kentucky’s principal investigator for Reading First, analyzing effective reading achievement and research-based instruction. She also worked as a kindergarten teacher from 1984 through 1992 in the Fayette County, Kentucky, Public School System.
Carney has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including twice being named Kanawha County’s Reading Association Teacher of the Year for College Educators Award.
Carney received her doctorate degree from the University of Kentucky, and her master’s degree from Georgetown College. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina.
Delaware State University‘s renowned Approaching Storm band has two need leads that will take it to new heights! Get the full story on the two alumni that are exciting to bring the music in the statement from DSU below.
Delaware State University has appointed two alumni to lead its renowned Approaching Storm Band and other instrumental groups – Sidney Sessoms, Jr., as its new Director of Band, and Vincent Adkins as the Assistant Director of Bands.
Mr. Sessoms attended Del State from 1980 -1985, and then completed his Bachelor of Science in General Studies/Music at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and a Master’s of Music Education from Salisbury State University. After serving as the interim Band Director at Del State in 1988, Mr. Sessoms served as the Director of Bands at Lincoln University (MO), Clark Atlanta University and Livingstone College, the latter of which he also served as interim Chair of the Music Department and Music Faculty.
Sidney Sessoms Jr.
Mr. Sessoms’ resume includes leading the Clark Atlanta University percussion ensemble’s performance during the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, performances for the Atlanta Hawks Basketball Team, and a number of national and international commissioned works, including works performed by Berkeley Institute-Hamilton Bermuda Band and Orchestra and the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra.
Mr. Sessoms is a member of several professional organizations including, Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity, Music Educators National Conference, Percussive Arts Society and College Band Directors National Association.
“I am excited about coming home to Del State,” Mr. Sessoms said.
Mr. Adkins earned a Bachelor of Science in Music from Delaware State University in 1988 and a Master’s Degree in Education Media Technology from Full Sail University in 2009. Mr. Adkins has taught music and band to public school students for 32 years, and brings to Del State expertise in drill design, marching fundamentals and jazz.
Vincent Adkins
He is also an instrumentalist for the Delaware Symphony Orchestra, where he is also a Board member. Additionally, as a member of Motown’s Final Mixx, Mr. Adkins has opened for The Manhattans, Miki Howard and many more.
“I am excited to give back to an institution that gave me so much,” Mr. Adkins said.
The Approaching Storm Band – which dates its origins back to the first organized music at the then-State College for Colored Students in 1902 – is a high-energy, entertaining collection of talented musicians and dancers. Delaware State band members have performed in London, for the National Football League, have performed with legendary Motown groups The Temptations, The Spinners and Martha Reeves and the Vandellas and is a coveted attraction at parades and celebrations throughout the state.
Elizabeth City State University is one of less than 20 universities across the entire nation that was able to hold a flight training summer academy this summer! Now, 14 students have 8 weeks of training in their journey through the ROTC. Learn more about it in the release by the ECSU below.
Veronica Bearup, 18, sat at a table in the K.E. White Center, dressed in her green Air Force flight suit, celebrating 8-weeks of training to become a pilot. Bearup, along with 13 other Air Force Jr. ROTC cadets, came to Elizabeth City State University this summer to train as pilots with dreams of becoming aviators.
“It was super fun and really challenging,” said the high school senior from Albuquerque, New Mexico.
This summer marked the inaugural year for 17 university campuses across the country to host aviation academies for cadets from across all 50 states. It is a call to arms of sorts for more pilots, especially minorities and women.
The 14 cadets celebrated the completion of their summer training with a banquet luncheon Monday, July 26. The future aviators celebrated their time in an intensive version of ECSU’s signature aviation flight program and with the guidance of faculty and certified flight instructors, work towards their private pilot’s license.
Their experience in Elizabeth City, said ECSU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon, is a testament to the university’s world-class aviation program and the story of its growth to national prominence.
“We are proud of our aviation program and now have a new group of ambassadors to tell our story,” she said of the cadets during opening remarks.
ECSU was awarded a $286,000 contract to train the Jr. ROTC cadets. The program brought the 14 cadets to Elizabeth City to train and prepare for a future in military aviation.
The scholarship program is a collaborative effort between the 17 universities and the Air Force to address a national pilot shortage. Currently, Boeing predicts an annual need to hire 6,000 civilian pilots a year for the next 20 years and military needs push that number over 8,000.
Talking to the cadets about their futures in aviation, it’s clear there are a variety of goals amongst them. Some, like 18-year-old Nicholas Boykins, plan to join the U.S. Marines. He is currently focused on aviation mechanics, but after 8-weeks with ECSU’s intensive flight program, he now has his eye on becoming a pilot.
“The program was pretty challenging,” he said. “I don’t have my license yet, but I did solo. It was not as nerve-wracking as I thought. It’s been a great opportunity.”
According to Department of Aviation and Emergency Management chair, Orestes Gooden, all of the cadets completed their solo flights and half of the group earned their private licenses, while the rest are near completing their qualifications.
Air Force Lt. Col. Timothy Strauss was the event’s keynote speaker. Strauss, a fighter pilot, military flight instructor, and former United Airlines first officer, addressed the cadets about the importance of their training over the summer, and its impact on the future of aviation.
“I challenge each one of you to take the lessons you have learned here and build upon them,” he said.
He emphasized that currently, the aviation industry needs them. Their futures, whether in the military or commercial sectors, are secure.
“Every one of you will get a job. The demand is so high,” said Strauss.
This was the first year for the cadet academy. Originally scheduled for the summer of 2020, it was postponed due to COVID-19 safety precautions.
Dr. Kuldeep Rawat, dean of the ECSU School of Science, Aviation, Health and Technology, said he anticipates the academy to continue next summer.
Grambling State University made its faculty and staff a priority this month and approved a salary increase that’s helpful during the pandemic. Learn more about this story in the release by the News-Star below.
Grambling State University President Rick Gallot
Grambling State University has announced a 3.477% salary increase for faculty and staff effective July 1, 2021. The increase is effective for fiscal year 2021-22 for eligible professional, operations and academic employees. Classified employees have been given a market pay adjustment effective July 15, in accordance with the Department of State Civil Service guidelines.
“Faculty raises were a number one priority during the legislative session and thanks to the support of Governor John Bel Edwards, the Legislature, the University of Louisiana System, and numerous others, it is now a reality,” said GSU President Rick Gallot in a news release. “Continued fiscal management and leadership at GSU have afforded us the opportunity to support increases for staff in addition to the faculty appropriation approved by the legislature.”
Gallot said he is hopeful that increases for Grambling State faculty and staff will continue in the future.
“We remain optimistic that just as we were able to award a 2% raise three years ago, that pay raises will become a continued practice because (they) are so deserving of them,” he said. “There are so many stories shared by our students about the faculty and staff that embraced them and brought clarity to their academic journeys.”
Whether it’s instruction, research, creative work, or customer service, the service and dedication of GSU faculty and staff define the university’s reputation and produce tangible examples of what it means to be a part of the place Where Everybody is Somebody, Gallot said.
“I speak for the University of Louisiana System and the executive cabinet when I say thank you for your continued devotion to Grambling State University,” he said. “We appreciate you and we wish you well as we progress through the new fiscal year and continue to plan for our fall semester.”
The president of Morehouse College has just extended his leadership outreach further after taking a position on the board of Vanguard. Learn more about the new position in the article below.
Morehouse College President David A. Thomas, Ph.D. has been appointed to the board of directors for Vanguard, according to an announcement from the company today. The Pennsylvania-based firm is one of the world’s largest investment management companies with $8 trillion in global assets under management. The company offers 418 funds to its more than 30 million investors worldwide.
“Serving on the Vanguard board of directors is an opportunity to support an investment philosophy focused on optimizing long-term asset value for a diverse group of investors,” said President Thomas.
President Thomas is well positioned to help lead governance of a global organization like Vanguard. A recognized author and thought leader in organizational behavior, Thomas earned a doctorate and master’s degree in the field from Yale University, along with a master’s degree in organizational psychology from Columbia University. Before becoming the president of Morehouse, he served as the H. Naylor Fitzhugh professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School, as dean of Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, and as an assistant professor at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. He has consulted on issues relating to organizational change, diversity, and inclusion for 100 of the Fortune 500 companies.
Since joining Morehouse in 2018 as the 12th president, Thomas has led dynamic, purpose-driven elevations in Morehouse’s strategic and operational effectiveness, programmatic reach, and pedagogical innovation. Among other transformational successes, Thomas has overseen the launch of the College’s first online degree program and a fundraising acceleration which has yielded $190 million since he arrived—a giving total that is higher than any other president in the history of the college.
“We are thrilled to welcome David to Vanguard’s Board of Directors,” said Vanguard chairman and CEO Tim Buckley. “He is a purpose-driven leader who has extensive experience in setting a vision, inspiring an organization, managing operations, and developing talent equally. Our client-owners will benefit tremendously from his governance.”
Vanguard’s board of directors oversees how the company is organized and operated on behalf of its shareholders, the Vanguard funds.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff got creative amid the pandemic by offering study abroad virtually. Often involving flights and foreign cuisine, this time study abroad was an immersive experience from home. Learn more about it from the recent release from Deseray Mckinzy at Deltaplex.
Tingshu Wang/Reuters
Three students from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff participated in a virtual study abroad course that focused on learning the Mandarin language. The 14-week course was organized by the China U.S. Exchange Foundation in collaboration with the China-HBCU Network.
The UAPB students were nominated by Dr. Pamela D. Moore, associate dean for global engagement, Office of International Programs and Studies (OIPS), to participate in this first study abroad/language learning course offered virtually at UAPB.
“We received notification about this unique opportunity early last semester when we were typically engaged with the international student clearance processes. However, I made it a priority to get the word out to as many students as possible,” Dr. Moore said. “Even during the pre-Covid-19 context, we worked with the Department of English, Humanities and Foreign Language to provide an introductory course for students planning to travel to China.”
Sadagicous Owens, a spring 2021 graduate of industrial technology management and applied engineering, said she took the course because of her fascination with learning another language, particularly an Asian language.
“This course was a way for me to meet my medical school language requirement,” she said. “Now, I can speak the common greetings, use main focused gestures, correctly pronounce words, and I can understand a new culture.”
Me’Auna Bailey, a junior business administration and management major, said she registered for the class to gain a glimpse into the Asian culture.
“I am a sucker for my culture and the culture of others,” she said. “I love that I was taught the language but that I also got glimpses into the culture as well.”
Dr. Pamela D. Moore and Digvijay Mohite (Credit: UAPB)
Digvijay Mohite is pursuing his master’s degree in agricultural regulations. He said he wanted to better understand global trade relations with China, trade wars, stock markets and cultural differences between the two civilizations.
“Being an international student from India, I was able to view as a third person without any bias the true situation and to understand each side much better,” he said. “(The course) helped me to understand Chinese culture and basic Chinese lifestyle while making new friends. I also got an idea about how the Chinese government functions and the economic differences between the two nations.”
The Virtual Mandarin Course was attended by 26 HBCU students from seven universities, Julia Wilson, CEO and founder, Wilson Global Communications USA, said. All students had to be enrolled in an HBCU and be beginners in Mandarin. They submitted applications that included a brief paragraph on their interest in learning Mandarin and Chinese culture. The students had to commit to attending every class virtually for the 14 weeks and meeting with tutors and group members to practice Mandarin speaking skills.
“Students were engaged in Mandarin language classes taught by a Chinese language professor from Beijing Foreign Studies University,” Wilson said. “The HBCU students were also assigned Chinese student tutors to practice the language one-on-one. By the end of the course, they were able to conduct a conversation in Mandarin.”
With the travel restrictions necessitated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Virtual Mandarin Course was a way to continue offering study abroad programs through the HBCU-China Network that introduce HBCU students to Chinese language and culture, she said.
“With China being the second largest economy in the world, next to the United States, we believe it is imperative for HBCU students to have opportunities to understand Chinese language and meet their counterparts to form positive international relationships; become more internationally competitive; and assist them in future world leadership,” Wilson said.
By engaging remotely, the students were able to meet their foreign counterparts and enjoy a study abroad experience this academic year without traveling, she said.
Dr. Moore hopes the course will continue to be offered in the future.
“I certainly hope that this virtual course continues because the pilot course we introduced several years ago is no longer being offered due to financial constraints, Dr. Moore said. “Because of the complexity of the Chinese language and differences between our society and that of China, students are better able to adapt once they are on the ground in that country.
“Now that we are hopefully seeing the light at the end of the tunnel regarding the Covid-19 pandemic, I hope that we will once again send students to China for language and cultural learning experiences, she said.”
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff offers all its Extension and Research programs and services without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.
Perseverance is not just about displaying success that others can see on the outside, but rather, finding success internally no matter what you’ve gone through. While it is not always easy, Clark Atlanta University sophomore Kaylin Strahan has found her own unique ways to persevere through personal challenges and remain a standout student. Remarkably, she has created a brand to ensure that this is something she is striving to not only see in herself, but in others as well.
Kaylin Strahan may look like she has it all together. In high school she was awarded the title of Miss Black Illinois Talented Teen 2017 by the Miss Black USA Pageant. She was also a track and field athlete who has competed on the state level, and even broke a personal record at the USATF Junior Olympics in 2018. By 2019 she and her team won the All American Athletes titles.
Personally however, Strahan continues to overcome different life challenges. “It has definitely not been a smooth road but I continue to thank God for blessing me,” she said. “I’ve had many challenges that have impacted me personally at a young age, including losing my father unexpectedly and being raised by a single mother who has given her all to be there for me through every area of my life despite being diagnosed with a debilitating autoimmune disease. I’ve also struggled with balance at times, attempting to maintain my grades while being a student athlete who is also heavily engaged as a leader in every institution I’ve attended. Life hasn’t been a crystal stair but I continue to trust and believe in the path God has created for me.”
Always one to keep her head up, Kaylin Strahan arrived at Clark Atlanta University as a freshman on a mission. She was chosen to serve as president of the freshman class and even continued to run track. Trying her hand at entrepreneurship, the business administration major created the “Embrace Y.O.U.” brand. Standing for “Embrace Yourself, Embrace your Origin and Embrace your Uniqueness,” she first came out with a book, “Embrace Y.O.U.” that addresses challenges like self esteem, bullying, and suicide. It focuses on paving a journey toward self love.
“I chose this particular platform because I saw a need to reinforce the importance of loving ourselves despite the challenges we are put up against,” said Strahan. “Because I loved my platform so much, I decided to write a book about it. I didn’t want it to be a memory that I associated with my time as a pageant girl, but I wanted to continue to spread my message and encourage others to embrace themselves.”
Embrace Y.O.U. the book is so impactful that Strahan has expanded it to a brand! First, she came out with an accompanying diary for readers to really get their thoughts out about topics mentioned in the book. Yet even still she’s not done. “I’m proud to expand my business to not only books but also things on a higher platform such as plays and movies,” Strahan gushed. “A goal that I am on track to accomplish would also be a bigger social media platform so I can reach more individuals with my message.”
To learn more information about Strahan and Embrace Y.O.U., head to her website here!
Tuskegee University has found its 9th president in Dr. Charlotte P. Morris! The longtime member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. has had roles that include Chief of Staff to a previous president, and Secretary to the Board of Trustees. Learn more about Morris in the Tuskegee release below!
The Tuskegee University Board of Trustees proudly announced today that interim President Dr. Charlotte Morris has been elected the ninth president of Tuskegee University, effective August 1, 2021. The Board sought the input of a myriad of internal and external stakeholders and arrived confidently at the decision to seat Dr. Morris as the new leader of Tuskegee. Dr. Charlotte Morris will be the second-ever female President of the University, following her predecessor Dr. Lily McNair.
“Dr. Morris has garnered the credibility and respect of key stakeholders across the state and around the country during her near thirty years serving the Tuskegee community,” said Board of Trustees Chair, Norma Clayton. “Considering her strong past performance and effective leadership, the Board of Trustees is delighted that Dr. Morris will continue to serve this institution. She understands the needs of this university today – putting the students first – and is the right leader for tomorrow and beyond.”
For over three decades, Dr. Morris has served in several roles at Tuskegee University including Chief of Staff to the 5th President and Secretary to the Board of Trustees. As Chief of Staff, she assisted in the development and implementation of a successful $169 million capital campaign in 2005. Most recently during her tenure, Dr. Morris also served as the Director of the University’s Title III Program and has acted as Interim and Associate Dean in the Brimmer College of Business and Information Science. Through Dr. Morris’ leadership, she has strengthened the University’s strategic partnerships with corporations such as Google and Cargill to generate $6 million in gifts and donations to strengthen career readiness initiatives and invest in the next generation of STEM leaders. In addition to the many honors and awards Dr. Morris has received, she was given the Distinguished Administrative Staff Achievement Award at Tuskegee University. Dr. Charlotte Morris has always been held in high regard by her peers and superiors while meeting and exceeding expectations.
“It is with great humility and honor that I accept the role of president. Having been a member of this remarkable university community for much of my professional career, it will be a pleasure to lead the university into the future,” said Dr. Morris. “I look forward to working with the entire campus community to seize the opportunities that lie ahead and continue to transform Tuskegee into a leading 21st century living and learning environment.”
Dr. Morris has also been instrumental in driving forward the university’s long-term planning, culminating in the 2022-2027 strategic plan framework that will be unveiled in the coming weeks. Through this plan, the university is prepared to address the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead with thorough research and innovative solutions. Among the many university goals is the initiative to enhance the institution’s entrepreneurship and scholarly activities, the consequent advancement of the University’s infrastructure, and increased scholarships and growth to support and promote students’ continuous success. In the new efforts of expanding athletic teams, programs and staff, Dr. Morris is also invested in the continued recruitment of a diverse and world-class faculty committed to professional development. All throughout, the underlying constant over the years at Tuskegee University is the dedication to the teaching, innovation and quality of education it provides to its students.
Tuskegee University will formally welcome Dr. Morris as the ninth president during an inauguration ceremony, planned for the weekend of April 9-11, 2022 to coincide with Founder’s Day Reunion Weekend.
From a being postponed due to a pandemic, to a series of controversies, year’s Olympics have undoubtedly gripped the world’s attention. Yet amid all of the headlines, there are a few athletes that we should all be paying special attention to. Athletes like Quanera Hayes, Tovea Jenkins, Chidi Okezie are representing HBCUs in sports that include basketball and track and field. Learn all about the top HBCU athletic talent in the world in the article below.
Hampton University
Credit: Fadel Senna/AFP/Getty
After setting a national record for Nigeria, Hampton University alumnus Chidi Okezie and his teammates are in Tokyo! The track and field athlete successfully competed on Nigeria’s mixed 4×400 relay team, evening creating a record for the country.
According to Punch Nigeria, the mixed team saved the day after Nigeria’s men’s 4x100m relay team was not able to qualify for the event. It was the for the third consecutive time the team had missed the mark. The 4 runners weren’t able to meet the 38.46 second target at relays in Lagos on Sunday and sadly left disappointed
Hampton University track and field alum Chidi Okezie anchored the Nigerian Mixed 4×400 relay team to an Olympic qualifying and Nigerian National Record time of 3:14.09 on Sunday at the Yabatech Sports Complex in Lagos. The time ranks the team 16th in the world.
Johnson C. Smith University
Credit: Johnson C. Smith University
Tovea Jenkins, a 2017 Johnson C. Smith University graduate, will be competing in the Tokyo Olympics! According to her alma mater, the Kingston, Jamaica native stood out in the 400-meter race and won her ticket to this year’s games.
The 2017 NCAA Division II outdoor champion on the 4×400 meters relay team, ran a personal best of 50.68 as she placed fifth at the Jamaica National Championship meet on Sunday, June 27, 2021, securing her spot on the Jamaican Olympic Team.
Livingstone College
Quanera Hayes celebrates after winning the women’s 400-meter run at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials Sunday, June 20, 2021, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)
After an impressive performance at the Olympic trials that landed her in first place, Livingstone College alumna Quanera Hayes is on her way to the Olympics! In 2015, Hayes was among our best and brightest when she landed on our HBCU Top 30 Under 30 list in 2015.
The 2015 Livingstone College graduate and Hope Mills native finished first at 49.78 seconds in the women’s 400-meter race, besting Olympics-decorated champion Allyson Felix, who came in second at 50.2 seconds, with Wadeline Jonathas rounding out the top three.
She was a 12-time NCAA All-American – indoor and outdoor track; a four-time NCAA Outdoor Track Champion (three times in 400 meters and once in the 200 meters); an eight-time school record holder; and USTFCCCA (US Track and Field Cross Country Coaches Association) Athlete of the Year Indoor and Outdoor.
North Carolina A&T State University
Left to right: Akeem Sirleaf, Trevor Stewart, Daniel Stokes, and Randolph Ross Jr. of the North Carolina A&T State men’s 4×400 indoor national championship relay team.
North Carolina A&T State University has four student-athletes in Tokyo for the Olympics. Aggies track and field director Duane Ross Sr. has worked since 2012 to ensure that Aggies stay on top of their game.
According to The Undefeated, the following daring athletes will be competing in the 4×400-meter men’s relay team, in Tokyo: Ross’ son, sophomore (Duane) Randolph Ross Jr., and Trevor Stewart, a senior from Lorton, Virginia, will represent the United States. Daniel Stokes, a junior from Pomona, California, will compete for Mexico, and Akeem Sirleaf, a graduate student from St. Paul, Minnesota, will compete for Liberia.
Saint Augustine’s University
Credit: Saint Augustine’s University
Saint Augustine’s University graduate Shawn Rowe is another athlete representing HBCUs in Tokyo. According to SAU, the former Falcon is representing Jamaica in the 400-meter hurdles.
The 2017 SAU graduate, was a four-time NCAA Division II national champion and six-time first-team All-American in college. He won the 400 hurdles national title and helped the Falcons win two national crowns and four CIAA titles. He also earned accolades like the men’s outdoor runner of the year in the CIAA and NCAA DII Atlantic Region. He was a CIAA 400 hurdles and 60 hurdles champion. CIAA Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year and a CoSIDA Academic Track & Field All-American.
Tia-Adana Belle of Barbados competes during the Women’s 400 metres hurdles heats during day four of the 16th IAAF World Athletics Championships London 2017 at The London Stadium on August 7, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images for IAAF
Tia-Adana Belle is also a Saint Augustine’s University graduate and track athlete with several records behind her name.
This is the second time Belle has made it to the Olympics. Her first time was in 2016 in Rio. Six of the top seven Division II times in history have her name on it.
Belle dominated the 400 hurdles event as a collegian, She also won three straight Division II national titles from 2015 to 2017, is a 12-time All-American, held Women’s Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year in the CIAA and more.
Savannah State University
Former Savannah State University women’s basketball star Ezinne Kalu will lead the Nigerian women’s basketball team at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics beginning next week.
For only the second time in the African nation’s history, Nigeria will be represented in women’s basketball on the world stage. Kalu, an American-born dual citizen, was a pivotal part of the D’Tigeress’ journey to Tokyo.
It’s been a tumultuous few days for the leadership at Kentucky State University. Amid questions about the university’s finances, the university’s president was the first to resign. Now, two more board members have followed his lead. Learn more about what’s going on at KSU in the Associated Press article below.
The development comes as Kentucky’s sole public historically Black university contends with concerns about its financial health and lawsuits alleging misconduct by campus officials.
In the days before Brown’s departure, Candace McGraw submitted her resignation from the school’s Board of Regents. In her resignation letter, McGraw said she was “not fully aware of the time needed to engage fully in order to ensure the ongoing success of the university.”
“Since I would not be able to fulfill my responsibility to the best of my ability, I believe the university would be better served by another appointee,” her letter said.
Credit: WDRB
McGraw, a recent board appointee, is CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.
Paul Harnice also resigned from the school’s board before Brown left, The State Journal reported. The Frankfort newspaper was the first to report on the regents’ resignations. Harnice did not immediately respond to a phone call and an email on Friday from The Associated Press.
Harnice’s resignation letter did not provide an apparent reason for his resignation, The State Journal reported.
“The purpose of this letter is to advise you that I have decided to resign from the Board of Regents of Kentucky State University effective immediately,” Harnice said. “It goes without saying that I wish the best to Kentucky State University, its employees and students going forward.”
Brown, who was KSU’s president since 2017, spoke about his resignation in a podcast appearance posted this week. He insisted the school’s financial issues were unrelated to his leadership.
“This is not about malfeasance, this is not about litigation, this is not about missing money,” Brown said. “It’s about a cash flow question, which is, let me say to be honest and fair, a very real question.”
Brown did not elaborate further and could not be reached for further explanation of his comments.
In April, KSU said it received positive results from its annual independent financial audit, with a budget surplus of $2.3 million for fiscal year 2020. The legislature last year authorized a $55.5 million bond to build a 400-bed dormitory and dining hall using private financing. Under a public-private partnership, a Lexington company will operate and maintain the property and KSU will finance it through a 35-year lease, the Lexington Herald-Leader reported.
After Brown’s resignation, the school’s regents named senior vice president and spokeswomanClara Ross Stamps as acting president at the Frankfort school. They also voted to hire auditors to review the school’s financial situation. Stamps declined afterward to provide any information about possible problems or the reason for Brown’s departure.
“The Council on Postsecondary Education is poised and ready to provide our assistance to the leadership of Kentucky State University as they move forward,” council President Aaron Thompson said.
In his executive order, Beshear directed Kentucky’s postsecondary education council to assess the school’s financial status and provide a report prior to submitting appropriation recommendations for the next biennial budget. The council also will assist the university in developing a management and improvement plan.
“I believe in KSU,” the Democratic governor told reporters. “So we are going to work to get through this time. We are going to work to get back on track. And my commitment is to be transparent once this audit is done, so that everybody can see any of the concerns that are out there.”
A new mural at Jackson State University is honoring civil rights heroes is ensuring that they will never be forgotten. Learn about the mural “Chain Breakers” in the Clarion Ledger article by Gabriela Szymanowska below.
A mural honoring civil rights legends — both living and dead — who blazed a path for equality was unveiled at Jackson State University Saturday morning.
The mural, “Chain Breakers,” depicts six notable civil rights activists, both living and dead, who blazed a path for equality on the outside of the Council of Federated Organization’s building. (Credit: Clarion Ledger)
Titled “Chain Breakers,” the mural depicts six civil rights activists as they rise above a chain that is broken. The notable figures in the mural range from the community’s first florist to the first African American female legislator in the state.
“This is a great historical representation of our history here at Jackson State University and the history of West Jackson,” Thomas Hudson, president of Jackson State University said in a statement. “All of the individuals in their own way had a wonderful impact on the university, the city of Jackson and the state of Mississippi and we are just happy to be a part of this celebration for them.”
Rep. Alyce G. Clarke, the first African American female legislator in Mississippi
Fannie Lou Hamer, civil rights leader who organized Mississippi Freedom Summer and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee
Bob Moses, civil rights leader and field secretary for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee
Rose Elizabeth Howard Robinson, Lanier High School teacher
Louise Marshall, the first African American bookstore owner in the Washington Addition community
Albert Powell, the first African American florist in Washington Addition community
The mural was painted on the outside of the Council of Federated Organizations building, located at 1017 John R. Lynch St., on Jackson State’s campus.
The Council of Federated Organizations was established in 1961 as a coalition of several major civil rights groups in Mississippi, a university news release stated. Some of the groups included Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the Congress of Racial Equality, the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
While all bearing different names, the groups worked together under the council to register voters and conduct other activities related to civil rights.
“When I learned that I was being considered, I was blown away to know that they would consider me along with those other people that they have on the mural,” Rep. Alycle Clark, D-Jackson, said. “Have you looked at them and the kind of things that they’ve done down through the years? To be among them on that wall, here in West Jackson is such an honor.”
Heather Denné, director of community engagement for Jackson State University, said in the news release the mural is a part of the university’s efforts to bring art to the community.
“We started this journey about two years ago to create art in our communities,” she said. “We always wanted murals because of the lack of art.”
Denné commissioned local Jackson artist Sabrina Howard, who has created other murals in Jackson such as the Milton Chambliss Shoe Hospital mural in the 900 block of John R. Lynch Street and “Sowing the Seeds of Love” at the Blackburn Learning Garden near the main campus of Jackson State.
Among those attending were Louise Marshall; Rep. Alyce G. Clarke; Fannie Lou Hamer’s daughter, Jacqueline Hamer Flakes; Rose Elizabeth Howard Robinson’s grandson, Jason Robinson; Albert Powell’s niece, Regina Orey; and Angela Stewart, archivist for the university’s Margaret Walker Center.
