The 4×400 relay team at Howard University is repping well! Recently, the team performed so well at preliminary championships that not only are they heading to the main races, but they broke a record too! Read more about the ladies keeping Howard at the top in the release from Howard Athletics below!
Howard junior Jessica Wright, captured by Tim Rice
Howard University women’s 4×400 relay squad capped off Memorial weekend punching their ticket to Eugene, Ore., at the 2021 NCAA Outdoor East Preliminary Round inside Hodges Stadium, on the campus of the University of North Florida.
Seniors Jessika Gbai, Ameenah Saalih and Ozioma Scott, along with junior Jessica Wright, represented Bison Nation in the event where they established a new school benchmark with the fastest non-automatic qualifying time of 3:33.71. The MEAC Champions shattered the previous 35-year-old record (3:33.98), set back in 1986.
“The 4×400 relay run was spectacular,” said Director of Track & Field David Oliver, who competed in the 2004 NCAA Nationals where he earned All-American honors in the 110-meter hurdles. “Not only did they qualify for the NCAA Nationals, but they took down a 35-year-old school record. This can only be attributed to their hard work and dedication.”
With their efforts, the four Bison became the first relay squad to clinch a spot at the NCAA Nationals since 1990.
“This season, we only had the team for five months of formal training, which put us behind the eight ball,” Oliver added. “But this group made it to this point, showing their self-belief in themselves. They represented Howard University extremely well this week.”
Credit: Howard University Athletics
Gbai and Wright also competed individually in the NCAA Quarterfinals, but just missed reaching Eugene. The Philadelphia native took part in the 200-meter dash, finishing 15th overall with a 23.10 time, while the Tar Heel product posted a new personal best (58.04) in the 400-meter hurdles despite coming up short.
“Individually, we had some solid performances today,” Oliver stated. “Gbai and Wright ran some of their best times, but unfortunately, they weren’t enough to advance beyond this round. I’m extremely proud of their efforts in their individual events.”
All-American Landria Buckley is the last individual to represent the Bison on the big stage (2010).
The next stop for the 4×400 relay team will be the NCAA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, Ore. (June 9-12).
From barbecues to parties, HBCU students are missing out on the favorite experiences. For those that have left without experiencing commencement either, HBCUs are now doing what they can to help their previous students finish. Learn about what’s being done in the story from Higher Education below from Sara Weissman.
Credit: HBCU Digest
A new initiative aims to bring back 4,000 students who stopped out of private historically Black colleges and universities and guide them to graduation with one-on-one coaching. Public HBCUs are doing similar outreach to students, especially those who left during the pandemic.
At Southern University at New Orleans, a public historically Black institution, faculty members are calling former students who left the university without completing their studies and encouraging them to come back and earn their degrees.
The central message of the calls is “Hey, you have an opportunity to return, we would love to have you here, SUNO is an institution of choice, you can thrive in this environment,” said Adriel Hilton, the university’s vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management.
The calls, which involve prepared scripts and talking points, are a part of the university’s “recruit back” program, an effort to reach students who earned some college credit but never graduated and students who were enrolled last fall or this spring but haven’t registered yet for the fall 2021 semester. University administrators hope the personal touch will motivate students to come back and complete their degrees.
Southern University is not the only HBCU doing such outreach. The United Negro College Fund, an organization representing 37 private historically Black colleges and universities, recently launched a new initiative to bring 4,000 students back to HBCUs across the country to earn their degrees, aided by one-on-one coaching. The move mirrors other efforts by historically Black institutions to reclaim students who left, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected Black Americans at disproportionate rates in terms of infections and deaths, and led to job losses and other negative financial outcomes for low-income students and their families.
More than five million Black Americans aged 25 and older have some college but no degree, according to Census Bureau data released in 2020.
“When we started to think about not only the immediate crisis response but the long-term effect of such a pandemic, we knew that we would experience some drop in enrollment,” said Ed Smith-Lewis, executive director of UNCF’s Institute for Capacity Building, which guides institutions in raising admission, enrollment and graduation rates. “We’re really thinking long term about how do we minimize that to the best of our ability and ensure that our students feel comfortable and safe and continue their quest to get that first college credential.”
The new initiative will target a cohort of students who stopped out of HBCUs in the last two years and provide them with free, personalized coaching for four months to ease their transition back into college. The UNCF kicked off its outreach to former students last week, and the recruits will ultimately re-enroll in a network of 10 HBCUs and predominantly Black institutions this fall.
“This initiative will empower returning HBCU students with high-impact resources and support to manage personal, financial and academic challenges of student life to the triumphant achievement of earning a degree,” Michael Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF, said in a release.
The coaches will be provided by InsideTrack, a nonprofit organization that helps colleges and universities increase student enrollment, college completion and career readiness. Ruth White, president of the organization, said InsideTrack plans to take a “holistic” approach with the HBCU cohort. Coaches will guide students through the complexities of re-enrollment and financial aid and help them chart out academic plans to complete the remainder of the credits they need to graduate, she said. Coaches can also help students navigate a host of other issues, such as personal finances, health care and childcare — “all the challenges that we face in daily life that could stop someone from returning to school,” she said.
Smith-Lewis considers the initiative a pilot program and hopes to continue re-enrollment coaching in future years if the approach proves successful. But he also sees this move as a chance to gather qualitative data on why students stop out.
“It’s sometimes hard to keep in touch with students who don’t come back to campus, so this is also an opportunity for us as a field to learn what’s keeping our students away from higher education, what things do they need to return and how they view their education in terms of priority with other life necessities,” he said. “We’re not exactly sure what to expect. We know for sure that students aren’t necessarily expecting this call … The big question is, if you do this proactive outreach, really engage the student and their needs, what happens?”
Even before the pandemic, HBCUs historically suffered from low graduation rates relative to predominantly white universities. A U.S. News & World Report analysis found that, among 41 HBCUs surveyed, the average four-year graduation rate was about 22 percent for first-time, full-time students who started in fall 2013. Spelman College had the highest four-year graduation rate at 68 percent. The six-year graduation rate at these institutions, a more common metric for HBCUs, is about 37 percent, according to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, which supports and represents 47 public historically Black and predominantly Black institutions.
HBCUs on whole saw a 5 to 7 percent drop in enrollment this academic year compared to last, consistent with the average decrease for colleges and universities nationwide, said Smith-Lewis, but “the real impact of the current environment will really be seen in this fall enrollment and subsequent enrollments after that.”
Robert Palmer, chair of educational leadership and policy studies at Howard University in Washington, D.C., emphasized that HBCU graduation rates reflect the high numbers of first-generation and low-income students these institutions serve, students vulnerable to stopping out if they can’t afford the costs of college. Nearly 75 percent of HBCU students are eligible for the Pell Grant, a federal financial aid benefit for students from low-income households.
“Given the population that HBCUs serve … they do a very effective job of enrolling and graduating students from that demographic community,” he said. “I do think that context is important to provide. We also have to be mindful that HBCUs are underfunded compared to their predominantly white institutional counterparts, so they have less resources, and when we talk about retention, most students tend to leave college because of not having the proper finances. That need-based aid is missing.”
He believes the coaching program’s wraparound approach to student support is consistent with the close mentorship that characterizes HBCUs.
“It falls in line with what HBCUs are known for — providing this really supportive environment and really meeting students where they are, really understanding the cultural background of students,” he said. “Most of all it says to those students who have stopped out, or even current students, that we as administrators see you. We recognize you and we’re here for you.”
HBCUs and their students were confronted with a complicated academic year as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic downturn stretched the budgets of already underresourced institutions.
Private HBCUs, the colleges and universities the UNCF serves, didn’t have the advantage of state support, said Harry Williams, president and CEO of the TMCF. Public HBCUs struggled as well, but “when you’re private, you got to raise your money for your resources on your own. It can be a little challenging just from a sheer financial perspective.”
In response to the financial hardships, Congress funneled at least $5 billion in emergency aid to HBCUs in its three pandemic relief packages, including President Biden’s American Rescue Planpassed in March, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
That money was “a game changer in the survival of all of our HBCUs,” Williams said.
Antiracism protests also swept the country after the killing of George Floyd last summer, leading philanthropists to pay renewed attention to HBCUs. Institutions such as North Carolina A&T State University and Bethune-Cookman University in Florida had record years for alumni giving, and some HBCUs saw an uptick in enrollment as Black students sought a sense of community and safety in response to a spate of highly publicized police killings of unarmed Black people.
Smith-Lewis called this year a “renaissance” for HBCUs, and he believes bringing back the students who stopped out should be a part of that revival.
Other leaders of historically Black institutions seem to agree, and some are engaging in similar efforts to bring back students who left before graduating.
Morehouse College in Atlanta, for example, is launching a new online bachelor’s degree completion program this August, targeting older individuals with some credits but no degree and former Morehouse students who left without a diploma. The goal of Morehouse Online is to bring back 500 of its former students in the next five years. The college received 7,000 inquiries since the program was announced, and so far, 4,000 people have started applications.
David A. Thomas, president of the college, told The Washington Post that the program was inspired by his conversations with students who never graduated but came to Morehouse alumni events.
“They had a desire to finish their degree, but didn’t have the ability to stop what they were doing in the world and go back to school,” Thomas told the Post. “We owe it to the world to amplify our impact and that means … impacting the world without the world having to come to us. This is us going to the world.”
Similarly, Delaware State University partnered with TMCF to create the Near Completer program, an online program with academic advising for former students with 90 or more credits.
Fayetteville State University in North Carolina is offering students who re-enroll this summer a scholarship that covers the cost of two courses, plus room and board for eligible freshmen and sophomores, according to the university’s website.
Although these re-enrollment efforts have picked up momentum during the pandemic, some HBCUs were already seeking ways to lure students back. Morgan State University in Baltimore, for example, introduced its Reclamation Initiative in 2016. The university sent emails and letters to students who stopped out detailing benefits they would receive if they returned to complete their degrees within six years, including one-on-one advising through the re-enrollment process and a scholarship of up to $2,500.
Still, Hilton, of Southern University, said he’s seen a growth in initiatives like UNCF’s since the pandemic began as HBCUs, and many other colleges and universities, look to re-enroll students hit hard by the pandemic, remote learning and a host of financial pressures related to the economic recession.
“Within the HBCU community, we know that enrollment is the lifeblood of the institution, that students present means the institution will go on to the future,” Hilton said. “And hopefully they will send their children and then they will send their children, so the ripple effect of these storied institutions [continues] for the future.”
Wilberforce University of Ohio had a very big surprise for its graduating classes recently! Find out why the university’s last two classes are rejoicing in the NBC story from Minyvonne Burke below.
Credit: Cappex
A private historically Black university in Ohio surprised the graduating classes of 2020 and 2021 by clearing their school debt.
Wilberforce University President Elfred Anthony Pinkard announced the news at Saturday’s commencement ceremony, which was attended by both graduating classes because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“Because we are in awe of your strengths and perseverance. Because you have made your family and yourselves proud. Because you have shown you are capable of doing work under difficult circumstances. Because you represent the best of your generation, we wish to give you a fresh start,” Pinkard said in a video posted by CBS Newspath.
Students immediately erupted in loud cheers and applause with many of those who gathered at the Gaston Lewis Gymnasium raising their hands in the air and jumping up and down.
“Your accounts have been cleared and you don’t owe Wilberforce anything,” he said.
In an online statement, the president said the school is “honored to be able to give them a fresh start by relieving their student debt to the university.”
The total amount of debt cleared is more than $375,000. According to the school, 166 students graduated on Saturday. The school was able to wipe account balances through a number of scholarships, including from including the United Negro College Fund and Jack and Jill of America.
Graduate Rodman Allen said in a school press release that he’s going to use the extra money to “invest it into my future.”
“I couldn’t believe it when he said it,” Allen said. “It’s a blessing.”
Wilberforce University is located about 60 miles from Cincinnati and tuition costs just over $13,000 per year for full-time undergraduate students. Founded in 1856, it is the country’s oldest private HBCU, owned and operated by African Americans, according to its website.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities are necessary. Not only do they continue to outperform non-HBCU institutions in retaining and graduating first-generation Black students, but they also consistently churn out society healers, industry disruptors, stereotype slayers, ceiling breakers, and history makers. While you’d be hard pressed to find a segment of American culture that hasn’t been heavily influenced by HBCU graduates, what we appreciate most is the culture within these institutions, and their commitment to helping students learn together, rise together, and band together–in more ways than one!
HBCU Marching Bands channel the boundless spirit of the institutions they represent. As part of Cricket Wireless’ ongoing commitment to the HBCU community, and in honor of Black Music Month, they are using their platform to amplify and empower HBCU Marching Bands to celebrate their legacies and keep these underfunded music programs going strong.
“After years of supporting HBCU football, we wanted to be “all in” on the game. HBCU football games aren’t complete without the bands,” said Tiffany Baehman, Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President, Cricket Wireless. “We are excited to extend our relationship to include the National Battle of the Bands. Cricket will support the Band Together Scholarship, as well as engage with the participating bands and band members to give viewers an inside look at the National Battle of the Bands.”
This Black Music Month and beyond, Cricket Wireless is showing their commitment and gratitude to these great institutions through service, philanthropy, and unique initiatives to help us all get and stay in formation for generations to come. First up, they’re launching, “Endless Sound: Celebrating the Unshakeable Spirit of Black music“, where they’ll give away $3,000 to each of the eight schools that are gearing up to compete in the National Battle of the Bands this August.
This campaign uses real footage of these marching bands edited together in a rhythmic and joyful way to show the impactful and enduring legacy of the HBCU bands and the powerful influence of Black music. All of this content will encourage viewers to show their support as well, by making a donation to the Band Together scholarship fund.
Additionally, Cricket is teaming up with two Black artists– Nikki Moon (of Bowie State), and Adrian Brandon– and featuring their work on Cricket’s social media platforms to bring them the recognition and exposure they deserve! Limited edition copies of Nikki’s work will also be sold as NFTs to help raise additional donations for the HBCU marching bands.
Cricket Wireless is proud to support and celebrate HBCUs as they continue their efforts to connect Black communities and spread hope and belief in a greater future through their commitment to empowerment, education, and entrepreneurship. Cricket hopes you’ll join them in supporting these underfunded HBCU music programs too, by making a donation to the Band Together Scholarship fund, today!
How Morehouse College is mourning the loss of its legendary basketball coach Grady Brewer. Learn about this Morehouse alum’s lengthy legacy in a post from Morehouse College’s Insider below.
Credit: The Atlanta Tribune
The Morehouse College community is mourning the loss of head basketball coach Grady Brewer ’80, who passed away on Saturday, May 29, following an illness at the age of 63.
“The past several decades can only justly be described as the Grady Brewer era at Morehouse,” said David A. Thomas, Ph.D., Morehouse College president. “The only thing that surpassed his presence on the basketball court was his transformative influence on Morehouse Men as a fellow student, player, alumnus, coach, teacher, mentor, colleague, and friend. Not only will his spirit continue to live on in the hearts of the Morehouse family, but his legacy will impact the sport for years to come.”
“This is a very sad day for Morehouse athletics,” said Curtis Campbell, director of athletics. “I have known Grady for many years. He was a great coach and an even better human being. He cared deeply about the young men that played for him and made a lasting impact on their lives— both on and off the court. He will truly be missed and remembered by many.”
A 1980 graduate of Morehouse College, Coach Brewer served as head coach of the Maroon Tigers for the past 21 years. During that time span, he compiled a career record of 315-241. In Morehouse history, his career win total sits only behind former head coach Arthur McAfee.
The entire Morehouse College community is mourning the loss of legendary championship head basketball coach Grady L. Brewer ‘80, who passed away on Sunday following an illness at the age of 63.
An Atlanta native, Coach Brewer played under the guidance of legendary high school coach Donald Dollar in the celebrated basketball program at Frederick Douglass High School. He was a standout basketball player while a student at Morehouse, where he was coached by McAfee. He lettered in each of his four years and started in his final two years.
After graduating from Morehouse, he served as an assistant coach at Atlanta’s Booker T. Washington High School and helped lead the Bulldogs to the 1987 Georgia 4-AAAA state championship. He then served for 13 years as an assistant coach at Morehouse.
Coach Brewer is survived by his wife Loletta and three sons: Ryan, a 2010 Morehouse graduate; Xavier, a junior on the Morehouse basketball team; and Jordan.
Michael Jordan just sent a substantial amount of funding to Morehouse College, and it’s to fill a disparity that needs to be filled. Learn why the famous athlete’s donation is unique both to him and the college in the Black Enterprise article from Charlene Rhinehart below!
Credit: Chicago Tribune
NBA legend Michael Jordan announced a $1 million donation to enhance journalism and sports-related studies at Morehouse College.
In the past, the billionaire was criticized for his lack of activism in the Black community. But now he’s stepping up to the plate and changing the narrative for Black students. Jordan’s contributions will support scholarship, technology, and educational programming initiatives for students attending the Atlanta-based HBCU.
“Education is crucial for understanding the Black experience today,” said Michael Jordan in a Morehouse news release. “We want to help people understand the truth of our past, and help tell the stories that will shape our future.”
Jordan Supports the Mission of Morehouse College
In 2014, Jordan became the first billionaire NBA player in history. He’s putting his fortune to work through initiatives that support the Black Community Commitment. In 2020, Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand committed to providing more social, economic, and educational justice in the Black Community. The donation to Morehouse College is one way that Jordan hopes to expand opportunities for Black men.
“Morehouse is grateful to Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand for an investment in the education of talented men of color who will ensure there is equity, balance, and truth in the way sports stories are framed and the way the Black experience is contextualized within American history,” said Monique Dozier, vice president for institutional advancement at Morehouse.
Founded in 1867, Morehouse is the only private historically Black college or university dedicated to the enrichment of Black men. The school has been at the forefront of addressing a lack of Black leadership in athletics and sports journalism. Spike Lee, a 1979 Morehouse graduated, launched the Journalism and Sports Program. His goal was to open doors for more Black men in media. Now, the program has graduated over 600 students who are transforming the narrative.
“There’s going to be a rich legacy of storytellers who will be supported by these programs,” Spike Lee shared in a news release. “Many people are influenced to think a certain way about Black folks based on what they see on television and in Hollywood. We’ve got to tell our story.”
Although Chadwick A. Boseman’s untimely passing shocked the world, his legacy will live on, especially through his beloved alma mater, Howard University. To find out how, read the new statement from Howard below.
Credit: Jay L. Clendenin/Los Angeles Times
Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick is pleased to announce that the newly reestablished College of Fine Arts will be named in honor of alumnus Chadwick Boseman, whose remarkable career as an actor, director, writer, and producer inspired millions around the world. The news comes just weeks after the announcement of alumna and actress Phylicia Rashad as dean of the college. During his tenure at Howard,Boseman led a student protest against the absorption of the College of Fine Arts into the College of Arts & S.ciences. Long after graduating, he, along with other alumni, continued to engage in conversations with Howard University administration- their efforts were not in vain. Plans to re-establish the College of Fine Arts were announced in early 2018.
“When Chadwick Boseman returned to campus in 2018 to serve as our commencement speaker, he called Howard a magical place. During his visit, I announced our plans to reestablish the College of Fine Arts and he was filled with ideas and plans to support the effort in a powerful way,” said President Frederick. “Chadwick’s love for Howard University was sincere, and although he did not live to see those plans through to fruition, it is my honor to ensure his legacy lives on through the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts with the support of his wife and the Chadwick Boseman Foundation. I’m also elated to have the support of The Walt Disney Company’s Executive Chairman Bob Iger, who has graciously volunteered to lead the fundraising effort to build a state-of-the art facility and endowment for the college.”
“We would like to thank President Wayne A. I. Fredrick and the Howard University Board of Trustees for honoring our beloved Chad with the renaming of the reestablished College of Fine Arts. We would also like to thank Bob Iger for spearheading the fundraising efforts of this development,” said The Boseman Family. “Chad fought to preserve the College of Fine Arts during his matriculation at Howard and remained dedicated to the fight throughout his career, and he would be overjoyed by this development. His time at Howard University helped shape both the man and the artist that he became, committed to truth, integrity, and a determination to transform the world through the power of storytelling. We are confident that under the dynamic leadership of his former professor and mentor the indomitable Phylicia Rashad that the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts will inspire artistic scholars for many generations.”
“I am extremely pleased that Howard University has chosen to honor my husband in this way and elated that Ms. Rashad has accepted the role as Dean,” said Boseman’s wife, Simone Ledward-Boseman. “Chad was a very proud Bison — both Howard and Ms. Rashad played integral roles in his journey as an artist. The re-establishment of the College of Fine Arts brings this part of his story full-circle and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire young storytellers for years to come.”
A native of South Carolina, Boseman graduated from Howard University in 2000 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in directing. During his tenure, he had the fortunate opportunity to be trained and mentored by Rashad, who recognized his talent early on. “Unrelenting in his pursuit of excellence, Chadwick was possessed with a passion for inquiry and a determination to tell stories – through acting, writing, and directing – that revealed the beauty and complexity of our human spirit,” said Rashad, who is elated about the news of Boseman’s recognition.
The Walt Disney Company’s Executive Chairman Robert A. Iger will personally lead fundraising efforts in honor of Boseman, a cherished member of the Disney/Marvel family, to build a new, state-of-the-art facility to house the college and an endowment for the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts.
“Chadwick Boseman was an extraordinarily gifted, charismatic and kind-hearted person whose incredible talent and generous spirit were clearly reflected in his iconic performances, including as King T’Challa in ‘Black Panther,’ and in his tireless commitment to helping others. Through his tremendous example he inspired millions to overcome adversity, dream big and reach beyond the status quo, and this College named in his honor at his beloved Howard University will provide opportunities for future generations of artists to follow in his footsteps and pursue their dreams,” said Iger.
Boseman’s college classmate Ta-Nehisi Coates was a student writer for the Hilltop newspaper when Boseman and his fellow students orchestrated the protests to challenge the closing of the College of Fine Arts. Coates recalls how Howard nurtured Boseman’s sense of the power of the arts to affect change. Thus, he believes it’s only fitting that the University name the re-established program after one it’s most accomplished students.
“Naming the College of Fine Arts after Chad, I think it’s perfect and it’s exactly what should be done. His theater work, his movie work, his acting and his writing, this was a continuation of that activism. The arts for him were always about something more. We’ve had a long list of artists come out of Howard, but, in our generation, nobody can better articulate, by example or by artistry, what we learned at Howard and what the university gave to us. So, I think it’s just fitting – it makes me teary-eyed thinking about it– naming the College after our brother who never stopped fighting for it,” said Coates.
Today’s announcement kicks off a fundraising effort to build a new, state-of-the-art facility to become the home of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. The building will also house the Cathy Hughes School of Communications and the University’s television and radio stations, WHUT-TV and WHUR 96.3 FM, creating a dynamic, one-stop complex for the arts and journalism combined. To donate, please visit https://giving.howard.edu/BosemanCollegeOfFineArts.
If you’re a fan of scary movies and thrillers, then buckle up because the Saw franchise just added a surpising actor to their latest film! Morehouse College alumnus Samuel L. Jackson will be in the latest Saw film “Spiral,” acting as fellow legend Chris Rock’s father!
In the film, Jackson’s complicated past somehow leads to a maze of ambushes and scares for Chris Rock’s character, “Detective Zeke Banks,” who leads a police department. Samuel L. Jackson, who plays a confident and esteemed police veteran, “Marcus Banks,” has a past investigating the grisly crimes of Jigsaw. The past creeps up to the present when son Zeke Banks is confronted with murders that are eerily similar. He then unwittingly becomes trapped in the mystery of Jigsaw, finding himself at the center of the killer’s grisly game.
Samuel Jackson is so effective in this role because it’s so outside of his typical roles. Known for Snakes On a Plane, Pulp Fiction, Snakes On a Plane, Capital One commercials, adn Star Wars films, Spiral brings something different out of him. Instead of getting him in his usual cynical yet in-control position, a shady horror film casts him in a whole light. Jackson’s character Marcus Banks has a history of fighting against the evil that is Jigsaw, but will he and Detective Banks prevail? Or, will Jigsaw continue his tyranny on the police department that Detective Banks has come to know and love, leaving everyone in and outside of the force exposed? Sometimes we think the pillars of our community will protect us, and are smarter than evil. But when things get personal all the rules go out the window.
To find out just how things go down in the next Saw franchise, watch Spiral today in theaters and let us know what you think.
For two twins, an HBCU helped keep them together, and still nurtured their differences. Learn more about these incredible ladies who made the best of their time at Xavier University of Louisiana in a story from Charlene Rhinehart at Black Enterprise below.
Credit: Black Enterprise
Twin sisters Jordyn and Morgan Jackson have just earned their Bachelor’s degree from Xavier University of Lousiana.
In 2018, the Jackson sisters graduated from North Houston Early Collegewith a high school diploma and Associate degree at the age of 17. Now, at 20-years-old, the twins are ready to start the next phase of their career. On May 8th, Jordyn obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. Morgan earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications.
“It’s never too early to start working on your craft and you’re never too young to make an impact,” says Jordyn. “One of the things my sister and I took advantage of when we got to Xavier was the Office of Career Service. That office is vital to your college career. I was able to have three internships with PwC just by always being in the Office of Career Services, working on my craft, and working on my interview.”
“College is the time when you learn and challenge yourself,” says Jordyn. “I took my first accounting class, enjoyed it, and stuck with it. I want to continue to increase the pipeline of Black CPAs because it’s less than 3%. That’s my why and my drive for doing what I do. I want to show young Black girls and boys that there are other career options out there. Accounting is a great profession.”
Exploring the World of Mass Communications
Jordyn shared her interest in business with Morgan and recommended that she consider that path as well. But Morgan wanted to leverage her skills in a different way. After hearing her mother discuss her experience as a mass communications major at Grambling State University, Morgan decided to go in that direction.
“I love speaking, says Morgan. “I did poetry a lot in high school so I wanted to learn more. When I got on campus, I fell in love with mass communications. We are the only department on Xavier’s campus that was all Black. That was amazing to me. Being mentored by Black women and men who were in the industry opened my horizons to what a career in mass communications [could look like].
Morgan is already thinking about ways that she can use her degree to bridge the gap between corporate and community communications.
“I chose the strategic communication route. In the future, I want to work with companies and brands to help them design and execute community engagement strategies that really enhance their brand appeal and make them resonate with marginalized audiences.”
Credit: Xavier University of Louisiana
Twin Sisters Pave the Way for Success During Degree Program
At 20-years-old, Jordan and Morgan have already built impressive resumes that will lead to more opportunities.
They are both members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Jordyn was a Resident Assistant, INROADS scholar, and Executive Leadership Council scholar. She’s also had three internships with Big Four accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and is a student member of the AICPA.
Morgan is part of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and National Millennial & Generation Z Community. She is a published writer and has worked as Marketing & Communication Specialist for the Center for Minority Health & Health Disparities Research & Education within Xavier‘s College of Pharmacy.
Twin Sisters Earn Their Degree While Capitalizing on Opportunities
On top of their extracurricular and leadership activities, both twins have exuded academic excellence through their recognition on the Dean’s list and honor societies. Their exemplary performance has been a magnet for opportunities on campus and beyond.
“Seize every opportunity and always present your best self,” says Morgan. “I can remember times when there was a small event on campus or someone was coming to speak. I made sure I was presenting my best self. You never know who you are going to meet or see. When you walk around, you are your own brand.”
Now, Jordan and Morgan are preparing for the next opportunity that awaits them.
“All of our lives we have been together,” Jordyn posted on LinkedIn. “Now we will be entering separate educational pathways to make our impact on the world.”
Morgan will be attending The University of Missouri-Columbia to pursue her Master’s degree in Journalism. Jordyn will start her Master’s degree program in Accounting this Fall.
The Morgan State University Bears are adding a new coach to their team that is quite familiar with playing football in Maryland! Get the full scoop in a new story from sports writer Daniel Oyefusi at The Baltimore Sun below!
Credit: WBAL TV
Former Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones is joining Morgan State football as the program’s tight ends coach, coach Tyrone Wheatley confirmed Monday.
Jones, famously known in Baltimore for his heroics in the “Mile High Miracle” during the 2012 divisional-round game against the Denver Broncos and an NFL-record-tying 108-yard kickoff return touchdown in Super Bowl XLVII, was with Calvert Hall this past season as its wide receivers coach. He also served as an assistant coach at his alma mater Lane College.
In a phone interview, Wheatley called Jones a “really good young coach” who can “identify and relate to young guys nowadays but also give them the truth.”
Wheatley said he formed a connection with Jones through mutual contacts. They both knew Kingston Davis, a former Michigan running back who was coached by Wheatley before landing at Lane with Jones, as well as director of strength and conditioning Tredell Dorsey, who was at Lane with Jones before coming to Morgan State in November 2020.
Wheatley spoke about Jones’ roots in Louisiana and how they could help build a pipeline from the South to Baltimore. He’s also hopeful that Jones’ local profile will assist the Bears as they try to “dominate the Baltimore County and Baltimore City and Maryland area” in recruiting.
“By him being a Raven, that name resonates in Maryland, especially in Baltimore County,” Wheatley said.
A third-round pick of the Houston Texans in the 2007 NFL draft, Jones, 36, spent three seasons with the Ravens from 2012 to 2014. He was a Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro selection in the 2012 season for the eventual Super Bowl champion Ravens. After the team released Jones before the 2015 season, he spent time with the Los Angeles Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers and then had a short stint in the National Arena League in 2017. In September 2017, Jones signed a one-day contract and retired as a Raven. He was in Cleveland last month to announce the team’s selection of Georgia guard Ben Cleveland with the No. 94 overall pick.
Though he spent just three seasons in Baltimore, Jones has often called the city he helped deliver a championship to home.
“This organization is a family more than anything,” Jones said at his retirement news conference. “The city of Baltimore accepted me. They took me in. It’s love, I appreciate it. Everything has to come to an end, but at least it’s here.”
Wheatley enters his third year at Morgan State, which finished the 2019 season with a 3-9 record, including a 2-6 mark in the MEAC. The conference initially postponed the 2020 season to the spring because of the coronavirus pandemic but then suspended the season after six of the conference’s nine football programs opted out.
The Bears are set to play an 11-game season this fall, beginning at home against Towson on Sept. 4.
Will Howard University move forward with its decision to cut its classics department, which is the only one of its kind at an HBCU? Steve Inskeep at NPR is sharing why the move is creating overwhelming outcry in the article reposted below.
Credit: AP Photo/Andrew Harnik
Howard University in Washington, D.C., is the nation’s only historically Black university with a classics department, but it provoked criticism last month when it was reported that school officials had decided to eliminate the department.
The uproar came swift. Students have written letters to Anthony Wutoh, provost and chief academic officer at Howard, calling for the department to be saved. Harvard University scholar Cornel West penned an op-ed in The Washington Post calling the decision a “spiritual catastrophe.” An online petition to preserve the classics at Howard has garnered thousands of signatures. There has even been a hashtag, #SaveHUClassics.
Among those who have spoken out is Anika Prather, an adjunct professor in the department. She says if you want to understand the importance of the classics and their contribution to Black history, look no further than Frederick Douglass, who, while still enslaved at age 12, was able to read Cicero and other ancient texts.
“He said when he would read them, he didn’t feel like he was a slave. He didn’t feel less than human. He didn’t feel like he should be oppressed. Instead, his mind was liberated,” she told NPR’s Morning Edition.
Howard officials have said the decision to dissolve the classics department — which itself does not offer a major — came after a three-year review of the school’s academic programs; the classics will still be taught through other departments at the university. But Prather said the classics are part of the bedrock of contemporary American society, and “that to remove it, we remove a piece of ourselves.”
Interview Highlights
On what Howard’s classics department does
A lot of people think classics are Shakespeare. Matter of fact, in some of the articles I’ve been reading, people have kind of lumped in Shakespeare and other works in this. And so it’s not the same. Classics, from an academic point of view, is the study of ancient Greece and Rome and all of the literature, the art, the culture, the language, such as Latin and Greek, that intersect there. So you’re reading Plato, you’re reading Aristotle, you’re reading the Greek tragedies, Roman comedy, you’re reading the myths. And from that seed, classics — you have the roots and the trunk and the branches — would be all the other literature and culture that is connected to that.
Would you give an idea of why you think the classics are relevant today? Because that does seem to be part of the concern of Howard University and a lot of educational institutions. Why are we spending time on this as opposed to more relevant, immediate things?
I think it’s an easy answer, but a hard answer, because it’s wrapped up in the racial history of America, which is why we’re in the situation that we’re in. The classical education, the study of classics and anything connected to that, is so interwoven into American history and life and culture, that to remove it, we remove a piece of ourselves, and there’s like nothing we can do about it. And so if you cancel it, if you disrupt it or remove it, then can you even understand all of the great history makers we so revere? Can you understand the Constitution? Can you understand the makeup of our government? Can you understand that our logo is in Latin? Can you understand all the Latin logos with the armed forces? Can you understand the Greek of our sororities and fraternities? Can you understand anything that surrounds us here?
Howard University has responded to the criticism by saying, listen, this is an administrative thing. We’re eliminating the department. There will still be some classics taught in various places. What do you make of that?
I want to choose my words carefully because No. 1, I love Howard University, and I try to not ever sound like I’m disrespecting the university or its leaders. It’s very unique, it’s the only HBCU [historically black college or university] with one. It was founded in 1867 with a classics department, and it was for that purpose to, on the one hand, celebrate our Black and African and American heritage, but also to give us a very universal worldview, which I believe contributes to why people like Chadwick Boseman have come out of there. You know, very much world changers, just not history makers in their own culture. And Chadwick Boseman, bless him, he went on in Europe to learn theater from a classical perspective. This is what made him so powerful as an actor and so versatile.
If it were up to you, what would you tell Howard University to do?
I think they should combine with professor Dr. Gregory Carr’s Africana studies, philosophy and classics and put them in one beautiful big integrative department that continues this focused study of classics within the narrative of the Black experience and continue the work they’ve been doing for hundreds of years.
Diversity in the workplace is a key focus area for many companies, and Goldman Sachs is dedicated to its continued efforts to support diversity and inclusion at the firm. Goldman Sachs is actively taking steps of progress toward racial equity, advancing gender equality, and increasing representation throughout every level of the firm. One of the ways it is addressing racial equity amongst their Black employees through the work and community of the Firmwide Black Network.
The Firmwide Black Network “aims to enhance professional development and advancement opportunities for Black employees, and advises senior business leaders on issues of importance to the firm’s Black community.” The Firmwide Black Network is one of Goldman Sachs employee inclusion networks that develop educational programs, networking forums, leadership conferences and client events with the purpose of leading the firm’s commitment toward diversity and inclusion.
The Network is a well-connected and supported community that is also focused on ensuring Black colleagues are recruited, retained, and grow their careers within the company. As part of the work, the firm engages with undergraduate students and those in their early careers, through the annual HBCU Possibilities Summit where HBCU juniors, seniors and recent alum participants get to enhance their resume skills, network with HBCU alumni currently working at Goldman Sachs, network with the Goldman Sachs Firmwide Black Network, participate in interactive workshops and get exclusive coaching on the Goldman Sachs interview process.
Nicole Pullen Ross, region head of the New York Private Wealth Management (PWM) business and leader of the Goldman Sachs Firmwide Black Network in the Americas explains more in-depth about the 2021 goals of the Network in an Q+A interview.
“Our objectives for 2021 will be focused around four strategic pillars: Recruiting, Professional & Personal Growth, Client Engagement, and Community Engagement. These are global across all the networks as we partner with Human Capital Management to ensure we are working to support the firm’s broader strategic inclusion goals and objectives. Then as a region, we’ll stay connected across our main offices and with our EMEA and APAC counterparts to ensure our network plays a central role in fueling change and empowering our Black colleagues.”
We encourage you to submit an application if you’re interested in the development opportunities offered as part of the HBCU Possibilities Summit program, and in learning more about Goldman Sachs’ strong Firmwide Black Network community. This program is roughly a 2hr/week commitment depending on the sessions you select and opt in for.
Applications are open for the 2021 HBCU Possibilities Summit now, and they will close on May 16th at 11:59pm ET.
A Spelman College alumna and her Morehouse College husband are being honored for a lifetime in the performing arts at her alma mater! Learn why it was important for Spelman and other sponsors to shine a light on the couple’s achievements and legacy to be left for other black students in a new release from Spelman below.
In honor of their lifetime of achievements, Spelman College will name a renovated theater, lobby, dressing rooms and supporting areas the LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson Performing Arts Center. Located in the John D. Rockefeller Fine Arts Building, the updated arts center is being made possible by a lead gift from the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation along with generous donations from Richardson Jackson and Jackson, Bank of America and David Rockefeller Jr.
At the height of the Black Arts Movement in the 1970s, actress-producer-director LaTanya Richardson Jackson, C’71, was honing her significant talents on the stage of the Baldwin Burroughs Theatre in Spelman’s John D. Rockefeller Fine Arts Building. She performed, alongside then Morehouse College student, Samuel Jackson, as a member of the Morehouse Spelman Players in productions like “The Sale” by Pearl Cleage, C’71. Their auspicious debut in plays produced by Spelman’s Department of Drama catapulted the couple into award-winning careers spanning nearly 50 years of artistic excellence and theatrical success.
“The love that both LaTanya and Sam continue to exhibit for Spelman since their time on stage decades ago is heartwarming,” said Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D., president of Spelman. “These living legends met and acted together on stage on our campus. Their dedication to their artistry will leave a legacy that will inspire students in the Atlanta University Center for years to come. We are grateful for their gift and that of the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation, Bank of America and David Rockefeller Jr. to renovate the space where these beloved talents got their start. Pioneers and leaders in producing important stories, LaTanya and Sam’s excellence will forever resonate in the arts center named for them.”
Richardson Jackson and Jackson both performed leading roles with the Morehouse Spelman Players on Spelman’s theatrical stage in the 1970s. They were directed by Spelman drama professor Baldwin W. Burroughs, Ph.D., for whom the stage is named, as well as award-winning playwrights, Carlton W. Molette, Ph.D., and Barbara Molette, Ph.D. Richardson Jackson spent time in programs on Spelman’s campus as a high school student before becoming an undergraduate.
Credit: Spelman College
“The benevolence of God placed me, Sam and our daughter Zoe inside a miracle which out of great gratitude, we work hard to share. Sam and I are invested in the success of Spelman because Spelman first invested so much in us,” said Richardson Jackson, who served on the Spelman College Board of Trustees (1998-2006), as well as on the advisory board of the Spelman Women’s Research and Resource Center. “Our beloved Mellody Hobson and George Lucas [of the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation] have always been friends who supported Spelman. Their legendary philanthropy has forever graciously seeded many of the causes that Sam and I champion. But for them to offer of themselves in this incredibly generous way (without our knowledge) speaks to an understanding of the importance of Spelman women to the world, while lovingly giving zoom focus to the reality of our miracle. Bank of America and their CEO Brian Moynihan are new friends who have joined us in this preservation process, and we are ever grateful for their support.”
“We’re pleased to support Spelman College as it inspires, trains and develops the next generation of leaders, from entrepreneurship to the arts, with a commitment that aligns with our focus on advancing racial equality and economic opportunity,” said Anne Finucane, vice chairman, Bank of America. “We believe that when the power of the arts is combined with the longstanding traditions of Spelman, it yields excellence, and we’re honored to be a part of this important work.”
Richardson Jackson is an accomplished actress of stage and screen, who served as The Denzel Washington Endowed Chair in Theater at Fordham University and has received critical praise, as well as a Tony Award Best Actress Nomination for her performance as Lena Younger in the 2014 Broadway revival of Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun,” the Lily Award for Broadway Excellence for “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and the Lincoln Center Theater Award for “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone.” Her extensive New York theater credits include “For Colored Girls…,” “Spell #7,” “Casanova,” “The Trail of Dr. Beck,” “From the Mississippi Delta,” “Stop Reset” and August Wilson’s 20th Century cycle at the Kennedy Center. Her film and television credits include “Fried Green Tomatoes,” “The Fighting Temptations,” “Dorothy Dandridge,” the Netflix series “Luke Cage,” HBO’s “Show Me A Hero,” for which she received a NAACP Image Award Nomination for Best Supporting Actress, “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Blue Bloods,” “U.S. Marshalls,” “Freedomland,” “Losing Isaiah,” “Malcolm X,” “Mother and Child,” “The Watson Go to Birmingham” and Sidney Lumet’s critically acclaimed “100 Centre Street.” She was the narrator for the award-winning documentary on Lorraine Hansberry, “Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart.” Richardson Jackson and Jackson are the proud producers of the internationally awarded documentary “Enslaved,” streaming now on EPIX.
During his years at Morehouse, Samuel L. Jackson as a member of the Morehouse Spelman Players, starring in “The Three Penny Opera,” “Perry’s Mission,” “The Sale” and Dr. B. S. Black.” After college he spent a decade in New York City appearing on stage at The Public Theater, The Billie Holiday Theater, the New Federal Theater and with the Negro Ensemble Company, where he originated the role of Pvt. Henson in “A Soldier’s Play.” He created the role of Boy Willie in August Wilson’s “The Piano Lesson” and Wolfe in Wilson’s “Two Trains Running” at Yale Repertory Theatre. Widely recognized as one of the most prolific actors working, Jackson has won several acting awards around the world, including a Special Best Supporting Actor Award of Excellence at The Cannes Film Festival for “Jungle Fever” – a Spike Lee Joint! He has a BAFTA Award, numerous NAACP Awards, three Golden Globe nominations, and the Academy Award nomination as Best Supporting Actor for “Pulp Fiction.” He has been named the highest grossing actor of all time. He has appeared in more than 100 films, including “Star Wars,” “Coming to America,” “Do the Right Thing,” “The Hateful Eight,” “Snakes on A Plane,” “Glass,” “A Time to Kill,” “Eve’s Bayou,” “Shaft,” “The Banker,” and as Nick Fury for the Disney Marvel franchise. Jackson was the narrator for the acclaimed documentary “I Am Not Your Negro,” based on the writings of James Baldwin and he has also lent his voice to memorable advertisements, video games, audio books, and animated films like the “Incredibles” series.
A Kentucky State University graduate is now the youngest black mayor representing any city in Illinois ever! Learn more about Darren E. Bryant and his journey through the mayor’s race in a Black Enterprise article from Charlene Rhinehart below.
Credit: Twitter
Darren E. Bryant takes office after an election victory against Mayor Tyrone Ward in April, becoming the youngest Black mayor in Illinois history. After receiving 52% of the votes, the 29-year-old will take the seat as the Mayor of the Village of Robbins in Illinois.
I would like to thank God for this moment,” Bryant told the Chicago Defender, one of the oldest Black newspapers in existence. “It feels good, but it’s a part of me and my DNA being from Robbins. Robbins has a history of African American pioneers, and once being a center of black culture in Illinois is astonishing. This is the people’s victory more so than mine, and it feels amazing to get it done for the people.”
How Bryant Became the Youngest Black Mayor in Illinois
Bryant has been actively involved in public service since he was a child. He says that both of his parents were elected officials, giving him exposure to local elections at an early age.
Bryant kicked off his political ambitions while at Kentucky State University. He served as Junior Class President for the Student Government Association. After graduation, Bryant returned to Robbins to serve as Commissioner and Vice President at Robbins Park District. At the age of 25, he was elected as Village Trustee of Robbins.
Now, Bryant will be the youngest Black mayor in Illinois. Incorporated in 1917, Robbins is one of the oldest Black communities in the United States.
April 27th. The Election has now been officially certified with the County of Cook and the State of Illinois…. Mayor of the Village of Robbins The youngest African American Mayor ever seated in the State of Illinois Darren E. Bryant pic.twitter.com/f13GG6KmQX
Although Robbins has a rich history, the village has suffered from economic disparities that have crippled community advancement. According to Chicago Magazine, the city has seen unemployment rates around 30% and median household incomes less than $25,000.
Bryant has devised an economic development plan to address these challenges. He plans to focus on the following five areas:
Commercial/Industrial Development
Residential Development
Financial Development
Educational Development
Job Training and Creation
“We must build our citizens,” Bryant told the Chicago Defender. “I call it the Big 3. We have a 38% poverty rate, 41% non-homeownership, and 15% higher education rate, and that is a problem. What I plan to do is move the municipality as an investment machine that will empower people through residential development, job training, and creation. We don’t have a business district in our community to offer amenities to our taxpayers. We have to keep the dollar within the community to regurgitate and build a strong community.”
Savannah State University has moved to officially lock in its president with a familiar face. Find out who she is and why SSU believes she’s a perfect fit in the story from Barbara Augsdorfer at Savannah Morning News below!
Credit: Savannah State University
Savannah State University has promoted interim president Kimberly Ballard-Washington to the permanent position, the University System of Georgia announced Thursday.
Ballard-Washington is the sole finalist for the position she inherited after taking over for president Cheryl Dozier upon her retirement in 2019. The Board of Regents will take action on Ballard-Washington’s appointment as early as next week’s board meeting.
“Savannah State’s 130-year history could not be better served than with a candidate of Ms. Ballard-Washington’s leadership and determination to honor its legacy while helping students successfully complete their degrees in the 21st century,” said USG chancellor, Steve Wrigley in a statement Thursday. “Kimberly has invaluable experience gained from working at a number of public universities across the state, and understands the important role Savannah State plays as the oldest public HBCU in Georgia. She truly and deeply cares for SSU, its students and its mission.”
Ballard-Washington comes into the position having practiced law for 20 years and served as associate vice chancellor for legal affairs at USG. She has worked in legal affairs at the University of Georgia and was president for legal affairs and director of Equal Opportunity Programs at Valdosta State University.
Her experience at Historically Black Colleges and Universities also includes interim leadership at Fort Valley State and Albany State.
(Gatehouse Content)
“Finding excellent candidates to become president of any institution is an awesome responsibility, and Savannah State’s campus-based Presidential Search and Screen Committee worked tirelessly on behalf of the university’s stakeholders and the Board of Regents,” Regent Don Waters, chair of the Regents Special Committee which also helped with the search, said in a statement released by the USG. “While a number of outstanding candidates were considered, ultimately there is no match for Ms. Ballard-Washington’s passion for SSU, as well as her knowledge and understanding of the campus, its needs and the considerable opportunities it offers both Georgia and its students.”
Ballard-Washington is a Georgia native and graduate of UGA. She earned her juris doctorate from Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
“I have long admired and now love Savannah State University,” Ballard-Washington said through the USG. “For almost two years, I have had the privilege of leading one of the most historic and influential institutions in our state on a temporary basis. I am honored to now have the opportunity to continue to lead the University into the next phase of its future.”
Everyone can benefit from participating in a team sport during their time at college. The benefits of playing sport while attending college are hard to underestimate. It doesn’t matter if you don’t regard yourself as a particularly sporty person. It doesn’t even matter if you have never played team sports before. When you finally reach college, you have a lot of hard work ahead of you. One of the best ways to counterbalance all that stress is is to participate in a team sport.
Doug Williams started his career at college and went on to become the first quarterback to lead his team to a win in the Super Bowl. Earl Monroe is a Philadelphia Basketball legend who again started his career in the College Division championship. Aeneas Williams didn’t play football at South University until his junior year. In 2014, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Basketball
While Basketball may not be all that popular in some of the world’s largest sports markets – the UK doesn’t seem to have much interest in the sport, for example – it is, in fact, one of the most popular sports in the world. Australia and Canada have hugely popular Basketball leagues. Surprisingly the sport is also tremendously popular in Iraq too!
As student sports go, Basketball is without a doubt the most popular choice in the United States. Make your school’s Basketball team, and you can guarantee the support of everyone at your college, who will be sure to watch your games on TV! College Basketball has generated a considerable number of legendary athletes over the years, especially thanks to the NCAA which organize a Championship each year, where all the US colleges with a basketball team could participate. This year NCAAB Championship has more than 120 participants, who are trying to make the Final Four. The race seems close if we take a look at the Unibet Sports Indiana website.
Sam Jones, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe, Willis Reed, Ben Wallis, and Charles Oakley are just a few of the names that you may well know, even if you have little interest in Basketball.
American Football
Football is hugely popular across the United States, and the NFL is making a great effort to spread the sport across the globe. They are doing this by holding exhibition games in some of the world’s largest sporting venues. One example would be the annual exhibition game at London’s Wembley Arena, which attracts a packed-out stadium every year.
Did you know that Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, and South Africa also have American Football leagues? If you are the sporting type, this is probably the game to try. It’s a great honor to play for any college football team. You won’t be receiving the kind of significant league wages that a professional player would, but you will benefit in so many other ways it more than makes up for it.
If you turn out to be a great player, a sports scholarship may well be offered to you at some point during your time at college. The best college teams are featured on TV just like professional teams are. Being a great American Football player will make you a hero in your college town, with all the apparent benefits that can bring.
Baseball
Another traditional US sport, and one that is regarded by some as being the best sport on Earth. Whole articles have been written about why Baseball is superior, more exciting, more entertaining, and just generally a better game.
While college Baseball doesn’t have quite the same following as college Football or Basketball, it’s a great deal of fun to play and excellent exercise, too. Playing any sport at college enables you to develop skills that you will undoubtedly find helpful once you enter the world of work.
Soccer
Traditional association football does have something of a reputation as being a girls or children’s sport in the USA, but this is changing as Major League Soccer finds its place in the hearts and minds of Americans. Some people find the rules confusing, but in truth, the mythical “offside” rule can be explained quickly enough in ten minutes, and the rest of the game is simple enough for a child to pick up and understand in an afternoon.
A Short Conclusion
Playing sports in college will teach you teamwork skills, discipline, time management, responsibility, concentration, interpersonal communication, and in some cases, even some degree of leadership skills. You may well find that you enjoy your college sport more than your degree itself! You never know until you try, so give it a go today.
