Wilberforce Alumna NaAsiaha Simon Opens “Gem City Selfie Museum” To End Mental Health Stigma

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

While we often don’t think much about why we take selfies, Wilberforce University alumna NaAsiaha Simon sees them as a way to come out of a tough place. Now, Simon is opening up a whole museum so that those in her community celebrate themselves in a new light! Read the release from Na’Asiaha Simon & Associates below to get the inspiring full story!

Courtesy of NaAsiaha Simon

When 31-year-old entrepreneur NaAsiaha Simon first relocated to Dayton, as a post-grad, fell in love with the city’s heart. During these last four years, she beat back a brain tumor and overcame personal wellness struggles. She took that love and turned it into a lifestyle of service.

Simon, a mental health advocate and champion for engagement and awareness, says that her own mental health struggle triggered a big idea: creating the Gem City Selfie Museum.

Together, working with a close-knit collective of like-minded young professionals, Simon’s big idea is about to come true.

“I want to provide a space for people to have positive, life-changing experiences and a space to heal using photography,” said Simon.

The people of Dayton consistently evolve into a community-focused, creative hub that has intent on supporting and celebrating the diverse talents that have and continue to spring up from the people of the Gem City, throughout the years. But between COVID and all of the mental, physical and emotional weight that has been troubling the region and nation, the city with so many hidden gems needed a fresh new creative space that is fun, informative, and interactive. And with the debut of the Gem City Selfie Museum, Dayton will get just that.

More than just a fun activity, the Gem City Selfie Museum is a creative hub cultivating community engagement and sparking creativity through visual art installations walls to bring focus to positive life experiences and boost confidence. Using vibrant colors, fun, and interactive props, taking the selfie experience to a whole new level!

The plan is to feature local musicians, local and national artists: Bing Davis,Bryon Smith of Smith and Son,Rich Murphy, Zuri Ali-Cole, and Taliaferro Sebastian of ArtHasNoRules. Simon is also partnering with the Ashley Scott Community Healing to offer free therapy.

Weyland Ventures Development Company has been a critical partner in seeing the project through.

“When I was in my season of crisis, dealing with a brain tumor and a lot of emotional trauma in 2020, taking selfies helped me see myself and love that reflection of me, flawed and still beautiful,” said Simon.

The Gem City Selfie Museum’s mission is to be a space with interactive illustrations created to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and stress. We want our guests to feel seen, heard, loved, and welcomed from the moment they enter the facility. The exhibits are specifically selected to evoke positive energy and emotion from guests of all ages.

NaAsiaha and the entire Gem City Selfie Museum collective want the people of Dayton to know that they are loved, appreciated, celebrated, and seen! What better way to commemorate that than with a selfie?

Follow Gem City Selfie on Instagram and Facebook to get to know more about the brand! For additional information on Gem City Selfie, click here.

Credit: Shon Houston

Bennett College Crowns Its 41st Miss Bennett

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

There is a new Miss Bennett College, and she is well-prepared for the role! Learn who she is and how she is so highly qualified in a recent statement below from BC!

Today, Bennett College is honored to name and present graduating dual-major senior Hannah Marie Ross as its newly crowned 41st Miss Bennett College. The crowning of Bennett College’s 41st Miss Bennett was Bennett College held on March 20. 

Bennett College’s illustrious legacy contributes to its traditions, and one of them is the coronation.

Coronation is when the official crowning of Miss Bennett College and members of the Royal Court. Miss Bennett is elected by the student body and serves as a member of the Executive Team of the Student Government Association. As Miss Bennett, the queen’s primary responsibility includes providing community service opportunities for the student body, serving as a Marshall for the Academic Cultural Enrichment Series (ACES) and serving as president of the Queens Association. 

For the 2020-21 Coronation year, Hannah Marie Ross was elected by her peers to hold the Miss Bennett title. Hannah Marie Ross is a resident of Hillsborough, North Carolina. She is the daughter of Esther and Joseph Ross and the older sister to TJ.  Hannah graduated with honors from Orange High School and is a dual Mathematics and Chemistry major.  

“During my time [at Bennett], I have had the privilege to work with 17 Miss Bennett’s, and each one of them is an outstanding example of what a Miss Bennett should be,” commented Rachel Pridgen, director of campus life and student activities. “Unlike any other year, this year was exceptional, as we faced restrictions and so many limitations due to COVID-19. But the spirit and determination of these young women were mind-blowing, as they did not give up—their support in each other was felt many miles and over Zoom connections. They showed me what sisterhood truly meant.”

“I am beyond words and full of joy to be crowned as the 41st Miss Bennett College,” said Hannah Ross. “To have the support and love from my [Bennett] sisters is a bonus to the education I am proud and humbled to receive this honorable title from my beloved institution. I am so grateful to represent Bennett with grace, love, and support.”

2020-21 Elected members of the Bennett College Royal Court are:

  • Ashley King ‘22, Miss Royal Blue and White
  • Seria Bullen Sata ‘21, Miss Senior
  • Michaela Zeno ‘22, Miss Junior
  • Ja’Nylah Johnson ‘23, Miss Sophomore
  • Kennedy Allen ‘24, Miss Freshwoman

“The entire Bennett community is beyond proud of this group of phenomenal young ladies. The Coronation 2020 was UNFORGETTABLE,” Rachel Pridgen continued.

Morehouse Alum Brian Tyree Henry Among Stars Featured In Monster Thriller “Godzilla vs. Kong”

Posted by Vanessa Roberson
Posted on

Warner Bros.’ highly-anticipated thriller Godzilla vs. Kong is more action packed than anyone could have imagined. The showdown of the century features all the elements of a blockbuster film: the all-star cast (including a Morehouse College alumnus), the special effects, the storyline, and of course, the monsters!

Credit: Warner Bros

In the film, gigantic legends Godzilla and King Kong collide in their battle to be the world’s top alpha male.  Kept away from each other for ages, there is an energy bringing them back together. The resulting fight will leave the fate of the world hanging in the balance. Stuck in the middle are nefarious scientists. the world’s cities,  and an innocent orphaned girl who has created a special bond with one of the giant monsters.

The cast of the film is full of familiar faces, and they all brought their A-game. Atlanta star and Morehouse College alumnus Brian Tyree Henry plays the determined Bernie Hayes. For 5 years, Hayes has been spying on the labs holding Godzilla in a makeshift environment, but he believes something big is going to go down, soon. Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown (playing Madison Russell) is attracted to Haye’s conspiracy podcast, and brings friend Dennison Julian (playing Josh Valentine) along to find him. The chaos that ensues takes them across the world as all three run into several close calls. Seasoned actors Alexander Skarsgård, Rebecca Hall, and Lance Reddick also get in on the action as leads in the film.

Credit: Screen Rant

Being that the film is the fourth installment in the so-called Legendary Entertainment “MonsterVerse” franchise, we do think true fans will love this film. If you’re not so familiar with the franchise, try watching the 3 films leading up to Godzilla vs. Kong (2021). Begin with Godzilla (2014), then Kong: Skull Island (2017) and then Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019) for the latest refresher.  

Godzilla vs. Kong premieres today in theaters and on HBO Max! Watch it and let us know what you think!

Morgan State Prepares To Resume In-Person Learning As Early As This Summer

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

According to a recent release from Morgan State University, the Maryland institution is confidently heading towards in-person learning. The decision will not only affect classes, but dorm occupancy and in-person commencements as well. Get more information from Morgan State below.

In a follow-up to Morgan State University President David K. Wilson’s annual, university-wide Spring Town Hall meeting, planning continues for a full reopening of the campus and a return of traditional University activities. The reopening is slated to begin moderately with in-person commencement exercises this May and is expected to progress to face-to-face instruction for Summer Session II in early July. Barring any setbacks, namely an upswing in COVID-19 cases or reinstatement of COVID-related restrictions by Baltimore City or State of Maryland leaders, Morgan will restore campus life in time for the 2021 fall semester.

“Make no mistake about it, Morgan is open for business, and our business is student success, which is why it is imperative that we bring our entire Morgan community back to campus,” said President Wilson. “Student interest in returning to their beloved Morgan has been extremely high, and we’ve been too long without their consistent presence at the university. This summer marks the beginning of a return to our traditions, a return to our normalcy and a resocialization, culminating this fall with vibrant university life befitting a National Treasure.”

This past February, President Wilson officially announced the university’s plans to chart a path to a fully reopened campus, providing key details of this effort, then expounded upon those details during his town hall meeting held in March. Wilson also announced the formation of a Resocialization and Re-acculturation Team that would work collectively and collaboratively to plan a smooth campus reentry process for the entire university community while reintroducing students to the rites and traditions that are the hallmarks of the “Morgan Experience.”

For the past two semesters, only a small number of students have resided in on-campus or off-campus housing: the vast majority of students participated in remote instruction because of concerns surrounding COVID-19 and government-mandated restrictions related to the pandemic. With the protective protocols that Morgan has had in place since the summer of 2020, increased testing on campus and the introduction of vaccinations to slow community spread, the university is confident it can fully reopen for the fall 2021 semester and comfortably bring the majority of its community back to campus, thus normalizing operations. Applications for fall housing are now open, and students are encouraged to apply.

A recent survey of Morgan faculty members revealed that a number of professors have requested to return to campus to participate in the more traditional academic setting favoring in-person instruction with safety protocols enforced. The University will also maintain the option for students to participate in classroom instruction remotely to accommodate any unique and/or extenuating circumstances some students may have in relation to the underlying pandemic.

In keeping with its commitment to maintaining the health and safety of the campus community, University officials are monitoring the varied reopening strategies that are currently being implemented across the national landscape of higher education. From the continuance of routine testing to vaccination requirements, Morgan is investigating all allowable options and best practices that are within the University’s control.

Morgan has also announced its plans to hold two in-person commencements in May: one for students who graduated during the spring, summer or fall of 2020 and were not able to participate in an in-person commencement because of COVID restrictions, and a second for students graduating in spring 2021. The events, which will be held on Friday, May 14 and Saturday, May 15, respectively, will be conducted in accordance with all current COVID protocols and will be subject to existing safety guidelines. More details will be made available as they become finalized.

Former Morehouse College President Dr. John S. Wilson Joins Board Of Education Tech Company Zovio

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

Former Morehouse College alumnus and President Dr. John S. Wilson has found a new role on the board of Zovio. Find out what type of technology Zovio specializes in, and how the new appointment will fit in with Dr. Wilson’s larger expertise in the release from Zovio below.

Dr. John S. Wilson (Credit: Morehouse College)

Zovio  (Nasdaq: ZVO), an education technology services company that partners with higher education institutions, announced today the appointment of two new members to its Board of Directors: Dr. John S. Wilson, former Morehouse College President who serves as a Visiting Scholar at the Harvard Business School and Mr. Ron Huberman, Chief Executive Officer of Benchmark Analytics and formerly the leader of Chicago’s public schools. Both Dr. Wilson and Mr. Huberman bring significant higher education, government policy, business, and human capital management experience to the Zovio Board in addition to their long-standing commitments to diversity, equity, and access to education.

“We are delighted to have Dr. Wilson and Mr. Huberman join the Zovio Board.  As we complete our transition to an ed tech services company, we are especially pleased that they bring impressive expertise and knowledge to strengthen our commitment to meet learners where they are,” said Zovio Board Chair and Interim CEO George Pernsteiner. “John’s vast experience in higher education and governmental policy and Ron’s expertise in business, data analytics, technology and K-12 education bring new insights as we continue to execute on our strategy of becoming a leading provider of education technology services to higher education institutions, K-12 school districts, charter schools, and corporations.” 

“It is an honor to be joining Zovio’s Board of Directors. Their commitment to meet the needs of each student, particularly nontraditional students, aligns with my personal and professional philosophy as a life-long educator,” said Wilson. “I’m looking forward to contributing my experience and insights from higher education to help Zovio support institutions to innovate and optimize their use of technology and data analytics to thrive while helping learners achieve their goals.”  

Dr. John S. Wilson (Credit: Zovio)

“I’m thrilled to join the Zovio Board at this transformational moment in the history of the company,” said Huberman. “There is tremendous opportunity in harnessing the power of technology to create products and solutions to help institutions and learners and I’m excited about the impact we can make together.”

Dr. Wilson has agreed to serve on Zovio’s Nominating and Governance Committee and Mr. Huberman will serve on its Audit Committee.  Mr. Huberman’s appointment also satisfies a term of Zovio’s February 2020 agreement with SevenSaoi Capital to appoint a mutually acceptable director to the company’s board.  With these appointments, the Zovio Board will be composed of ten directors, including two women and two persons of color, demonstrating Zovio’s commitment to Board diversity as a strategic imperative. 

Ron Huberman (Credit: Zovio)

Winning HBCUs and Divine 9 Orgs for The Metamucil 2 Week Challenge Announced

Posted by Vanessa Roberson
Posted on

Congratulations to the first place winners that will receive $10,000 courtesy of Metamucil: Southern University, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.! In second place is Howard University who will receive $7,500, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. who will receive $5,000. In third place is North Carolina A&T State University who will receive $5,500, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority will receive $3,000. The remaining Divine 9: Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. will each receive $2,000. 

At the beginning of 2021, Metamucil announced an exclusive HBCU Metamucil 2 Week Challenge to promote digestive health in the African American college community.The Metamucil 2 Week Challenge invited HBCU students to take Metamucil daily for two weeks. Metamucil is a super fiber supplement made from psyllium that helps promote digestive health by trapping and removing the waste that weighs you down*, leaving you feeling lighter and more energetic**. When taken daily, it can also help lower cholesterol† and promote healthy blood sugar levels*.

Credit: Metamucil

The Talk’s Sheryl Underwood partnered with Metamucil (a Procter & Gamble brand) to host the Metamucil 2 Week Challenge that will award winning HBCUs and Divine 9 organizations with scholarship prizes worth up to $10K! The contest was simple to enter, and the 3 HBCUs and Divine 9 organizations with the most sign ups won. The winning HBCUs and Divine 9 were announced on Saturday March 27th live at the NAACP Awards by Sheryl Underwood.

The Metamucil 2 Week Challenge got over 10,000 sign ups from HBCU students and Divine 9 members! We’re so proud of all the HBCU Students and Divine 9 members that showed up to support their university/organization. 

For more on information about The Metamucil 2 Week Challenge, visit HERE.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

**Survey of 291 adults who self-reported that they felt lighter and more energetic after completing the Metamucil 2 Week Challenge.

†Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 7 grams of soluble fiber per day from psyllium husk, as in Metamucil, may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. One serving of Metamucil has 2.4 grams of this soluble fiber. One serving of Metamucil capsules has at least 1.8 grams of this soluble fiber.

Terrence J To Bring Financial Literacy To HBCU Students With New Program

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

Always looking to boost the HBCU experience for other students and alumni, North Carolina A&T State University alum Terrence J is ambitiously working to bring financial literacy to campuses across the country. Get the full story original story from News One written by Brandee Sanders below.

Credit: Jennifer Johnson

Actor and media maven Terrence Jenkins is on a mission to use financial literacy as a vessel to empower HBCU students. According to AfroTech, the New York native has joined forces with the Black-owned banking platform First Boulevard for an initiative designed to equip students at historically Black colleges and universities with the knowledge and resources needed to cultivate a solid foundation for financial success.

Through the effort—dubbed Project Tassels—Terrence J and First Boulevard will launch a video series that covers an array of money management-related topics including budgeting, saving and credit scores. Jenkins and the financial institution are aiming to help 1,000 HBCU students take charge of their financial futures. The North Carolina A&T State University alum says he lacked money management knowledge while in college and early on in his career and that inspired him to use the lessons derived from his personal experiences and share them with students. “I wasn’t entirely knowledgeable about the importance of financial literacy while attending North Carolina A&T State University, or even at the beginning of my career,” he said. “Had I known then what I know now about wealth building, I would’ve taken small steps to better manage my finances sooner. With Project Tassels, helping 1,000 students get the degree they’ve earned will add an additional $1B to circulate within the Black community. It’s a great start, but to really change the game, I’m challenging other organizations to join us.”

Donald Hawkins, who serves as President and CEO of First Boulevard, says Project Tassels is part of the neobank’s larger mission to address systemic racism and build Black generational wealth. He added he is excited to team up with Jenkins for the effort. “Through his work with Project Tassels, Terrence J will help over 1,000 people gain a new lease on life and with a focus on financial education, he’ll also make a significant impact on HBCU students by providing modern-day financial tips to avoid the debt trap and reach their goals,” he said.

News about Project Tassels comes after Greenwood—a digital banking platform founded by rapper and activist Killer Mike that is centered on Black economic empowerment—secured $40 million in funding.

Master P’s Son Hercy Miller, A 3-Star Basketball Recruit, Headed To Play At Tennessee State University

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

Hercy Miller, son of Percy “Master P” Miller, is heading to Tennessee State University! Many many be speculating why the 3-star recruit skipped other Division I schools like LSU and UCLA. Yet Master P recently shared how he even wants to own an HBCU, which may have led to the decision. Read more below for more details about why the talented baller is heading to play with the Tigers in a story from Mike Organ at the Tennessean!

Credit: Tennessean

Hercy Miller, the son of hip-hop mogul Percy “Master P” Miller, committed Friday to play basketball at Tennessee State after saying he also received offers from Vanderbilt, LSU, UCLA, USC, Missouri, South Carolina, Arizona, Georgetown and several other larger schools.

Miller, a 6-foot-3 senior guard at Minnehaha (Minnesota) Academy, announced his decision at his school.

He had narrowed his final decision to Vanderbilt or TSU and chose the Tigers because wanted to be a part of a movement across the nation where several high-profile high school athletes are choosing HBCUs over bigger schools.

“I want to be a leader and a dream of mine and a goal of mine is to change the narrative,” Miller said. “I want to show people you don’t have to go to one of these big schools, Power Five conference schools, just to be great. There are a lot of great people who came out of HBCUs or mid-major schools. I want to be the next one.

Miller mentioned that Oprah Winfrey graduated from TSU, and Rob Covington, who is in his eighth NBA season currently playing for Portland, played for the Tigers.

He also pointed out that Ja Morant, now with the Memphis Grizzlies, played at Murray State, which is in the Ohio Valley Conference along with TSU. 

Miller’s brother Romeo played two seasons at USC and Master P said the family spent a lot of time in Nashville over the years, first in music and then during his sons’ AAU basketball careers.

Master P said the decision was left solely up to Hercy.

“He had a lot of big schools on the table — Vanderbilt, LSU, USC, UCLA — and I said, ‘Son, this is all your decision; you’ve got to live with whatever you do,” Master P said.

“We’ve been in and out of Nashville before and everybody thought he was going to pick Vanderbilt. When he told (TSU) coach Penny (Brian Collins), ‘This is where I want to go,’ it was a surprise to all of us. I think this is bigger than just going to a school and bigger than basketball. What Hercy is doing is going to change the game and I think a lot of great players are going to want to go to HBCUs.

According to NCAA rules, Collins is not allowed to comment publicly until Hercy Miller has signed his letter-of-intent.  

Credit: KARE

Master P and Hercy were impressed by Collins’ boldness to recruit Hercy and go head-to-head with coaches from so many bigger schools.

“That’s the thing that got my attention,” Hercy said. “Because I feel like most people would have felt like, ‘Oh, he would never come here,’ but that’s not the case. With me I don’t see a school as having to be big or whatever to have to be good.”

“I had never seen a coach with that much confidence,” Master P said. “Coach Collins was like, ‘We want you to come here and I was like, ‘Coach, for real? Do you know all the big schools that are offering us?’ He said, ‘Yeah, I looked at that. But they’re nothing like Tennessee State.’ I felt a realness in him and his staff. He wants a winning program and he wants to change how people think about Tennessee State and we’re going to do that.”

Hercy  can play either guard position.

Master P played briefly in the 1990s in the preseason with the Charlotte Hornets and the Toronto Raptors.

“I feel like Hercy is going to bring the whole community together,” Master P said. “Because we not only want to play basketball. My thing is about being a part of the community, helping the next generation, helping the elderly. Just being in that environment and saying, ‘How can we build something?'”

Bayou Classic To Move Forward As Planned Despite Grambling State Suspending Next 2 Games Due To COVID

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

 The Bayou Classic is still on this year despite the recent positive COVID tests of multiple Grambling State University football players. We reported earlier today that the Tigers team has gone on hiatus due to the tests. The team also recently has had to deal with the fact that a star player, Geremy Hickbottom, is looking to depart from the team through the transfer portal.

Regardless, those behind the Bayou Classic don’t want to let any of this get in the way of the big game in April. Get the full story from Tyler Johnson at BR News in Baton Rouge below to find out how the team is planning for the show to go on with Grambling State safely!

Credit: HBCU Gameday

The Bayou Classic is moving forward as planned despite Grambling State University canceling its next two football games due to COVID-19 concerns.

The Bayou Classic is set to kick off at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Apr. 17 at Independence Stadium in Shreveport.

On Wednesday the GSU Athletics Department canceled its’ games against Alabama A&M (March 27) and Texas Southern (April 3) after positive tests were identified through COVID-19 screenings.

“The safety of our student-athletes from both Southern and Grambling are always top priority, but no COVID concerns have changed the plans for the Bayou Classic to be played next month,” The Bayou Classic said in a statement on Thursday.

Leading up to the big game, Port City Fest events will include a three-day Party on the Red April 15 – 17 at Festival Plaza featuring food and all-day entertainment, a Mayor’s Golf Invitational Tournament that will benefit scholarships for students attending Grambling State University and Southern University and a Port City Fan Fest experience on the morning of the game.

The Bayou Classic game alone is expected to being in between $2.3 and 4 million.

Credit: Visit New Orleans

Creator Of “All Rise,” Popular Show Starring Howard Alumna, Fired Over Racism Allegations

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

The cast and crew of the CBS hit series “All Rise” have been jolted by the fallout of racism in the workplace. While Simone Missick, a Howard University, alumna sizzles in her role as Judge Lola Carmichael, the series’ creator has actually been accused of creating a harshly toxic workplace. Capture this unfortunate full story from Kate Feldman at the New York Daily News below.

Greg Spottiswood (Credit: Richard Shotwell/Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP)

Greg Spotiswood, who once told the Daily News that his legal drama “All Rise” planned to upend the racist tropes within the justice system, was fired Wednesday after his writers room accused him of ignoring complaints about racial sensitivity.

Warner Bros. Television has relieved ‘All Rise’ executive producer Greg Spottiswood of his duties, effective immediately,” the studio said in a statement to Deadline.

“Executive producer Dee Harris-Lawrence will continue to serve as showrunner of the series, working closely with fellow executive producers Michael M. Robin and Len Goldstein. We remain committed, at all times, to providing a safe and inclusive working environment on our productions and for all employees.”

Five of the original seven writers on the CBS series quit in 2019, including three highest-ranking writers of color, The New York Times reported in August.

Writers criticized Spotiswood for giving stereotypical dialogue and plots to lead character Judge Lola Carmichael, played by Simone Missick, and other nonwhite, nonmale characters.

“We had to do so much behind the scenes to keep these scripts from being racist and offensive,” writer Shernold Edwards told the Times.

Co-showrunner Sunil Nayar, who previously worked on “Revenge” and “CSI: Miami,” also quit and was replaced by Harris-Lawrence.

Simone Missick as Judge Lola Carmichael in “All Rise.” Michael Yarish/Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc./TNS 

“It became clear to me, when I left the show, that I was only there because I’m the brown guy,” he told the Times. “Greg hired me to be his brown guy.”

“All Rise,” one of the few broadcast dramas with a female Black lead, premiered in September 2019 and is currently airing its second season. CBS has not yet announced a renewal or cancellation.

Before the show’s series premiere, Spottiswood told The News that he took special care to hire diversity in front of and behind the camera.

“We’re very aware of the media and cultural tropes associated with certain groups that live in Los Angeles,” he said. “How do we tell the truth without perpetuating certain ideas or biases just because it’s an easier trope to go with?”

Alabama A&M University’s Rovonta Young Eyes Professional Golf Career After APGA Tour Win

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

It’s been a great golf week for Alabama A&M University‘s Rovonta Young! Find out why in a recent article from Cameron Morefit at PGA Tour.

Credit: PGA Tour

Rovonta Young, seeking his first professional victory four years after the end of his collegiate career at Alabama A&M, shot a back-nine 31 for a 6-under 66 to win the APGA Tour event at the King & Bear course at World Golf Village on Tuesday.

His 140 total edged Landon Lyons and Davin White by one.

“First professional win since I turned pro in 2018,” said Young, 26, who overcame a six-shot deficit after the first round. “It’s a big hurdle. I’m glad I overcame it today.

“It’s been my dream since I was 3 years old to be on the PGA TOUR,” he added.

Tuesday brought warmer weather after a chilly start to the tournament. 

Willie Mack III, a first-round co-leader after a 68 in cool, breezy conditions Monday, fell back with a second-round 77 to finish five back. Mahindra Lutchman of Florida A&M University, the other first-round co-leader, shot 75 for 143 and low amateur honors.

Lutchman is third in the APGA Collegiate Golf Ranking compiled by PGA TOUR University. Teammate Mulbe Dillard, who finished just a shot behind him, is No. 1. If they maintain their rankings, they will earn exemptions into the APGA Tour summer events along with expenses and entry into pre-qualifying for the Korn Ferry Tour Qualifying Tournament.

It’s been a banner year for the APGA. Mack and fellow pro Kamaiu Johnson, golfing ambassadors for Farmers Insurance, have been getting a handful of starts on the PGA TOUR. Mack was 1 under after 14 holes in the first round of the Farmers Insurance Open before eventually missing the cut (74-75). He shot 70-76 to also miss the cut at The Genesis Invitational, but still finished ahead of players like Rory McIlroy and Justin Thomas.

In other words, the APGA guys are showing they can compete.

Credit: Golf Trade

“It’s tough to be just thrown into it like that,” said APGA Director of Player Development Adrian Stills. “But we’ve seen that our guys can do it, and we’ve got 10 more like that right behind Kamaiu and Willie. You just have to look at what Rovonta did today.”

Young, who still lives in Huntsville, Alabama, where he went to school, has not one of the APGA headliners, and his first victory only underlines the tour’s depth. He felt like he was underachieving and reached a turning point at an APGA tournament at TPC Deere Run last year, where he finished well back. Seeking a mental coach, he sought a referral from his grandfather, Charles Herring, who raised him and got him started in the game.   

Enter Dr. Richard Trammel, a sports psychologist from Birmingham who is a high-level golfer himself and has worked with players on the Korn Ferry Tour. It clicked immediately. Their work paid off Tuesday as Young went birdie, birdie, eagle, birdie on holes 11-14 to pull away.

“He’s helped me tremendously, from the first session,” said Young, who grew up in Rancho Cucamonga, California. “I feel as if I have the firepower, I have the accuracy, and I have the putting. It’s just the six inches between my ears. Just handling the pressure and the moment.”

Trammel texted his congratulations Tuesday before Young had even had a chance to thank him. “He just said, ‘Yes!’” Young said. “He’s someone who has really put a lot of confidence in me; he’s got a couple guys on the Korn Ferry, and he’s just said, ‘You’ve got it.’”

The field of 49 players was competing for $25,000 in prize money at the 7,279-yard, par 72 golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer.

The APGA Tour at World Golf Village was the fourth tournament of the landmark 2021 season, featuring a record 13 events and $350,000 in prize money, almost double from the 2020 season for the tour, whose mission is to bring greater diversity to the sport of golf.

The tournament was conducted under social-distancing and health/safety guidelines in conjunction with regional authorities. The APGA Tour’s next stop: Las Vegas, April 12 and 13. Young, imbued with confidence, his PGA TOUR dream still very much alive, will be there.

Grambling State Pauses Football Season Amid COVID Tests, Star Quarterback Departing

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

Grambling State University has a few problems on its hands. A few of its star football athletes have tested positive for COVID-19. On the other hand, one of its starting quarterbacks is looking to move on from the Tigers program. Read all about it in a recent article by Dante Pryor at Saturday Blitz below.

Credit: Grambling State University

On Wednesday, Grambling University Athletics decided to suspend spring football activities due to positive COVID-19 tests discovered through routine screenings. As a result, their games against Alabama A&M (March 27) and Texas Southern (April 3) have been canceled. Grambling State will not make up those games.

Grambling State is the second SWAC team to pause spring football due to positive COVID tests. The Prairie View A&M Panthers also suspended team activities last week amid positive tests. The Panthers set new dates for their games against Alabama A&M and Jackson State.

One of Grambling’s opponents, Alabama A&M, has to wait another week to play their second game of the season. The Bulldogs don’t play until they travel to Prairie View to take on the Panthers. The game against Grambling was also supposed to be their second home game of the spring season. Because of the cancellation, the Bulldogs play the rest of the season on the road.

Grambling’s only remaining game is the Bayou Classic scheduled for April 17.

Geremy Hickbottom enters the transfer portal

Geremy Hickbottom (Credit: Grambling State University)

In addition to canceling games against Alabama A&M and Texas Southern, Tigers starting quarterback Geremy Hickbottom announced that he is entering the transfer portal on his Twitter Wednesday night.

“As I go into the next chapter of my football career, I feel it is best to go in another direction. I will be entering the portal as a grad student and taking my talents to another institution,” Hickbottom wrote. “I want to say thank you again for all who have been in my corner, invested and who have made a difference in my time here. Forever a G-Man.”

This is the third offensive loss Grambling and head coach Broderick Fobbs has suffered this spring. First offensive coordinator Mark Orlando resigned as offensive coordinator after the Prairie View game, then quarterbacks coach Kendrick Nord left the program after one game as offensive coordinator.

Now starting quarterback, Hickbottom has decided to put his name in the transfer portal days after Nord left the team. It seems as if the Tigers are not only looking for wins, but they are also searching for answers.

Maryland Governor Signs $577M HBCU Settlement Bill

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

Students at Maryland HBCUs including Bowie State University and Morgan State University will be greatly supported thanks to a new $577M bill just signed by Maryland’s governor. Get the full story on how the funds will be used for used for scholarships, financial aid support services, and faculty recruitment and more from Brian Witte and NBC News Washington below!

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (Credit: ABC News)

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan signed legislation on Wednesday to settle a 15-year-old federal lawsuit relating to underfunding at the state’s four historically Black colleges and universities for $577 million over a decade.

Hogan, lawmakers and school officials described it as a landmark in addressing historic inequities in funding for the schools.

“We finally got to this day,” Maryland House Speaker Adrienne Jones, a Democrat and the state’s first Black speaker who sponsored the bill, said to applause at Bowie State University, adding that she is a sister and a mother to HBCU graduates.

Hogan, a Republican, vetoed a similar bill last year after citing economic difficulties created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Hogan told reporters the state was facing potentially daunting deficits and uncertainties at the time and that he vetoed other costly measures as well. He also noted that the state has made historic investments in the schools in recent years.

“This is an important occasion and we’re here today to enact an historic bipartisan measure that will be an unprecedented step forward in addressing inequities in our higher education system by making substantial investments in Maryland’s historically Black colleges and universities,” Hogan said.

The funds in the settlement will be used for scholarships and financial aid support services, as well as faculty recruitment and development. The money also could be used to expand and improve existing academic programs, including online programs, as well as the development and implementation of new academic programs.

Aminta Breaux, president of Bowie State, said the extra funding will enable the colleges to stay competitive.

“We are growing, but we need the additional support to build out new academic programs to open up our doors wider for the students who want to attend Bowie State University, and so for each one of our HBCUs it means a great deal for the students for their families and our communities as well as the workforce.”

The measure, passed unanimously in the Senate and by an overwhelming majority in the House, would not begin payments until fiscal year 2023.

The money will be distributed each year to HBCUs based on the share of students enrolled during the immediately preceding academic year, compared to the total number of students enrolled at all HBCUs.

Morgan State University will receive $24 million in the first year, Bowie State $16.8 million, University of Maryland Eastern Shore $9.7 million and Coppin State University $9 million.

From left: Chiebateuka Ahaghoto, Alena Latson, Byron Tolson and Alhaji Kanu will represent Bowie State University at the TechConnext hackathon hosted by Black Enterprise (Credit: Bowie State University)

The measure’s provisions are contingent on a final settlement agreement June 1. Michael Jones, a leading attorney for the HBCUs, told The Associated Press last week he did not anticipate any problems reaching a settlement, once the settlement measure became law. Jones described it last week as “one of the largest pro bono civil rights settlements in history.”

The lawsuit dating to 2006 alleged that the state had underfunded the institutions while developing programs at traditionally white schools that directly compete with and drain prospective students away from HBCUs.

In 2013, a federal judge found that the state had maintained “a dual and segregated education system” that violated the Constitution. 

“The General Assembly’s successful effort to provide the four HBCUs with long overdue funding and a process for creating and developing high demand, unique programs will enable the HBCUs to be competitive in recruiting students of color and all students, thereby helping bridge the racial divide in the state’s higher-education system,” said Jon Greenbaum, chief counsel and senior deputy director at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, who served as co-lead counsel in the case.

Howard University School Of Business Announces $4.9M Gift From Warner Music Group, Blavatnik Fund

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

Howard University has received a substantial gift that will further bridge the gap from Howard to Hollywood! While some big names like Chadwick Boseman, Taraji P. Henson, Lance Gross, and more hail from Howard, the School of Business is now supporting students with careers behind the camera. Get the full release from Howard University below to find out what famous company and social justice foundation are behind the power move!

Credit: Howard University

“I’d like to thank the Warner Music Group and the Blavatnik Family Foundation Social Justice Fund for this significant gift to launch the music business center at Howard University. The contributions of African-American artists to the music and entertainment business are significant, but people of color are still underrepresented on the management side of the industry,” said Howard University President Wayne A. I. Frederick. “This gift to the School of Business honors the historic legacy Black people have made in the industry while making a crucial investment in today’s students who will become the leaders of tomorrow.”

The center will serve as an academic hub to prepare Howard’s diverse students for careers on the management side of the music industry. It will provide a space for curriculum development, internship opportunities, executive-in-residence and certification programs.

“We are very excited about this investment from the Warner Music Group / Blavatnik Family Foundation Social Justice Fund,” said Howard University School of Business Dean Anthony D. Wilbon, Ph.D. “Through the center we will prepare Howard students for management leadership positions and create a pipeline to help diversify all levels of this influential business. Our goal is to prepare students with the skills necessary to succeed, provide the networking opportunities to gain exposure to industry leaders, and create long term impact in the entertainment board rooms.”   

The center will offer a one-year fellowship program for high potential students interested in pursuing careers in the music industry. The program provides fellows with coaching, specialized curriculum, mentorship and hands-on industry experience working with influential partner organizations. Students will also receive exclusive access to insider perspectives through an executive in residence program that engages industry leaders. Through the center, music executives will participate in a series of fireside chats, master classes and other programming that will expose students to the lived experiences of working in the industry. Finally, the center will provide engaging programming for all members of the Howard University community and the broader community to participate in, including guest lectures, business case competitions, and more.

“As a Howard alum, I could not be prouder to have played a role in bringing this much-needed music center to my alma mater,” said Julian Petty, Fund Advisory Board member and EVP and Head of Business & Legal Affairs, Warner Records. “It will also serve as an important step forward in creating a better pipeline of Black executives in the music business, and I am confident that it will help nurture the next generation of industry leaders.”

Credit: The College Post

The WMG/BFF SJF was established in June 2020 in response to the brutal killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and other Black people that sparked protests for social justice. With a grantmaking strategy focused on the key pillars of education, criminal justice, and cultural and performing arts, the Fund will invest in organizations around the globe that build more equitable communities. It will prioritize contributions to those organizations that create real change in the lives of historically underserved and marginalized populations – with heightened attention to Black communities.

“The music industry is ever evolving but one constant has been the influence that Black culture and Howard University has on the landscape,” said Assistant Dean of Impact and Engagement and Associate Professor of Marketing, Yuvay M. Ferguson, Ph.D.  “It is important for us to own this influence as artists, curators, and business professionals. This new academic center is going to give the next generation of Bison the advantage of exposure and insight. Our goal is for these students to have the benefit of walking a path blazed before them by Bison in the industry like Tarik Brooks, Joi Brown, Mark Pitts, Julian Petty, Young Guru, Sydney Margetson, Jazz Young and Sean Combs.”

Erica McKinley, Alumna of Tougaloo College, Named Big Ten Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

An HBCU alum is filling the role of the very first chief legal officer and general counsel for a very big conference! Erica McKinley, who graduated from Tougaloo College, has the honor of leading in this new position! Read the release from the Big Ten below to learn about her story, her colleagues, and how she will lead in the new position.

Erica McKinley (Credit: PR Newswire)

Big Ten Conference has named Erica McKinley its first chief legal officer and general counsel. In this role, she oversees all legal, corporate governance, enterprise risk management, compliance, litigation, regulatory, corporate, and NCAA matters, as well as outside counsel management. McKinley reports directly to Big Ten Commissioner Kevin Warren and will work collaboratively with the Council of Presidents and Chancellors (COP/C) and the general counsels at all 14 Big Ten member institutions. She also serves as a key strategic advisor to Commissioner Warren and the conference.
 
Adam Neuman has served as chief of staff, strategy and operations, in the office of the commissioner and now joins the newly formed legal department as the first deputy general counsel for the conference. As chief of staff and deputy general counsel, Neuman works collaboratively with McKinley, Commissioner Warren and key constituents at all 14 Big Ten member institutions.
 
“Building a progressive and proficient legal department – during an extremely complex period in intercollegiate athletics – is a transformative step for Big Ten Conference,” said Commissioner Warren. “I am thoroughly energized by welcoming Erica’s extensive and expansive business and legal expertise to our team.  Her intelligence, work ethic, leadership and integrity are most impressive.
 
“Adam is a trusted advisor and talented executive,” Commissioner Warren continued. “He will continue to add incredible value and make a substantial positive impact as he serves as chief of staff and expands his role as deputy general counsel.”
 
By establishing and formalizing a robust in-house legal team, Commissioner Warren continues his commitment to respect the tradition of the conference, protect the values of the conference, its members, and their constituents, and transform the conference into a sustainable model that creates opportunities for its partners, members and, most importantly, its student-athletes.
 
McKinley is a savvy business executive with a strong background in collegiate and professional sports. She joins Big Ten Conference after serving as chief legal officer and general counsel at the University of Mississippi where, during her tenure, she was the primary legal advisor for the university. Prior, McKinley was the chief operating officer for the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). While at the NBPA, she developed an unwavering commitment to player health, safety and wellness and, protecting player interests both on and off the court. Before joining the NBPA, McKinley served as associate general counsel for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. She started her career at two prominent D.C. firms, Arnold & Porter and Akin Gump.
 
McKinley earned a juris doctorate, summa cum laude, from the University of Mississippi School of Law in 1998. After law school, she completed a clerkship on the U.S. Court of Appeals in the Fifth Circuit. McKinley graduated from Tougaloo College in 1995, with a bachelor’s degree in English.
 
Neuman joined Big Ten Conference in January 2020 as chief of staff, strategy and operations. He played an integral role in helping the conference tackle the most complex times in its 125-year history by assuming a leadership role in helping the conference navigate a global health pandemic. Neuman was also a key contributor in establishing the Taskforce for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Mental Health & Wellness Cabinet, and the Equality Coalition, a social justice initiative which supports conference-wide voter registration and civic engagement.
 
He earned both a juris doctorate and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School and the University of Pennsylvania’s Fels Institute of Government, with a certificate in business management from the Wharton School. Neuman was an associate at Simpson, Thacher & Bartlett LLP, a speechwriter for the president of Yeshiva University, and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Yeshiva University in 2015.

Credit: PR Newswire

Fort Valley State University Is Working Ambitiously To Vaccinate Students And Staff On Campus

Posted by HBCU Editors
Posted on

Fort Valley State University is doing its part to get back to normal! The university is close to vaccinating 100 people in its fight to combat COVID-19. See the full story in a release from FVSU below!

Credit: Raleigh News & Observer

Fort Valley State University (FVSU) in coordination with Macon Occupational Medicine, the agency managing the school’s on-campus Wellness Centers started administering COVID-19 vaccinations to faculty, staff, and students on Friday, March 19, 2021. To date, the university has administered more than 80 vaccinations provided exclusively to its campus community
for eligible recipients who choose to receive it.

Last month, the Georgia Department of Public Health approved FVSU as a closed point of dispensing meaning that vaccinations can be provided to its students, faculty and staff only. The university recently received its first shipment of the Pfizer vaccine and began administering shots within days based on appointments made by members of the campus community.

Richard Riley, the emergency management coordinator for FVSU, said campus health officials began administering the first doses to employees and students who qualify under the current 1A vaccination phase at the Hunt Student Wellness Center. The 1A distribution plan for the State of Georgia includes individuals 55 and older as well as individuals as young as 16 with certain medical conditions. Pfizer is the only COVID vaccine currently approved for children aged 16 and up.

Credit: HBCU Lifestyle

“In keeping with our commitment to protect the health, safety, and well-belling of our students and employees, we are excited to provide convenient access to the COVID-19 vaccine to members of our campus community should they choose to receive it,” said Dr. Paul Jones, FVSU president.

FVSU on-campus vaccinations are currently being administered on Mondays and Fridays of each week. Campus health officials are still recommending that individuals exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms be tested – even for those undergoing vaccination. They also recommend continuing to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance that includes wearing masks, social distancing, and diligent handwashing to prevent spread.