Howard University Renames College of Fine Arts After Trailblazing Late Alumnus Chadwick A. Boseman

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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.

Legendary Morehouse Alum Samuel L. Jackson Among The New Faces Of Latest Saw Film “Spiral”

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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.

Trailblazing 20-Year-Old Twins Graduate From Xavier University of Louisiana

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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.

Former Ravens Wide Receiver Jacoby Jones Joining Morgan State Football As Tight Ends Coach

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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.

Credit: Kevin Richardson/Baltimore Sun

Howard University’s Decision To Cut Classics Department Prompts An Outcry

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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.

Getting to Know Goldman Sachs’ Black Network

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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. 

Spelman College Names News Arts Center After Alumna LaTanya Richardson Jackson and Samuel L. Jackson

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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.

HBCU Grad Darren E. Bryant Makes History As Youngest Black Mayor in Illinois

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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.

Mayor-Elect Bryant Unveils Plans for Robbins

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 Interim President Kimberly Ballard-Washington Set To Become President

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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.” 

Popular Sports to Play At The Collegiate Level

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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.

Posted by HBCU Editors Posted on 5717 articles

16-Year Old Headed to College, Chooses FAMU Over Yale and Harvard

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Curtis Lawrence, a 16-year old boy from Washington, DC that has already graduated high school, has been accepted to 14 colleges including Yale and Harvard. However, he wants to attend an HBCU and has already decided to attend Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.

Two years ago, Lawrence was just 14-years old when he started college through a special program at the George Washington University.

Now, although he has received more than $1.6 million in scholarships to attend some of the most prestigious universities in the country like Harvard, Yale, and George Washington University, he has decided that he wants to have the HBCU experience at FAMU. Even more he has already decided to double major in biology and computer science.

“First I started thinking about what schools had good biology programs,” Lawrence told FOX 5 DC. “Then I started looking specifically at HBCUs because I wanted the HBCU experience and to be surrounded by the people who are just like me and who are not only Black but academically talented.”

His mother Malene said they have been supporting Lawrence in his plans and college preparations since he was in 7th grade.

“We’ve taught them from an early age that education is key to opening up the opportunities and having access to things that they want to life,” his father Curtis said.

Read more via BLACK NEWS

Here’s a Few Top Phones for Gamers

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For any college student, having a smartphone can be useful for a number of reasons. Not only can you check your classes and send emails on the go, but you can also keep yourself entertained between study sessions. Mobile gaming is becoming more and more popular every day but some of the more advanced games require a good smartphone to run the software.

We have gathered some information on the best smartphones for gamers in 2021. Read on if you are hoping to upgrade your smartphone and enjoy some mobile games this year.

Asus ROG Phone 5

When you are looking for a new smartphone, Asus might not be the first brand that you think of, but this device is actually very good for mobile gaming. According to the experts, it has a remarkable performance and a great display. The screen size is 6.78” and the CPU is a Snapdragon 888. When you consider the speakers that come along with this device, you’ll enjoy your games the way that they were supposed to be played.

Nubia Red Magic 5G

Another contender for the best smartphone for gaming is the Nubia Red Magic 5G. This device has a 6.65” screen and runs on the Snapdragon 865 CPU. Some of the notable features that gamers might be interested in include the 144Hc display that allows you to see your games properly. Additionally, there are shoulder triggers that are very handy. Overall, this newly released smartphone would make the perfect device for a gamer who enjoys checking out the latest esports.

Lenovo Legion Phone Duel

Released back in October 2020, the Lenovo Legion Phone Duel runs on a Snapdragon 865 Plus CPU and offers lots of processing power. This means that you can easily load up your favourite video or casino games and start playing in a matter of seconds. It is also worth noting that this option offers super-fast charging, so you don’t need to wait around to start playing again. If you are looking for a high-priced model, this might be one to consider.

Black Shark 3

One of the more affordable models on our list is the Black Shark 3. This smartphone was recently released, and it runs on the Android 10 platform. The CPU is a Snapdragon 865 which is pretty standard, and the screen is 6.67”. Interestingly, the cameras on this device are quite impressive which is useful for those looking for a smartphone that offers a range of purposes. You might want to consider the fact that the refresh rate is behind the competition on this model.

Razer Phone 2

Finally, we believe that the Razer Phone 3 is one of the best gaming smartphones available to purchase in 2021. While this model was actually released back in 2018. It has proven itself time and time again with its top-line specs. The Snapdragon 845 CPU and the 5.72” display make for a great gaming experience on this device. You’ll find that the backside logo also makes this smartphone stand out as it glows in a range of hues which is perfect for gamers.

Check These Out

If you are a college student looking for a smartphone that offers more than the typical Apple or Android device, we recommend checking out these models. You’ll find some larger screens and great processing power that can help you to get your favourite games up and running in no time at all. Check on features like the price and read some more reviews to help you come to the right conclusion at the end. 

Posted by HBCU Editors Posted on 5717 articles

Bowie State Graduate Students Can Now Take Courses At Chicago School of Professional Psychology

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HBCUs like Bowie State University are finding new ways for their students to expand their education outside the walls of their institution. A new agreement is allowing psychology graduate students to not only inch closer to completing their degree, but ensure they have the necessary education on issues like mental health. Learn all about it in the new release from BSU below.

(Credit: Bowie State University)

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (TCSPP), a leading non-profit graduate and undergraduate institution devoted to psychology and related behavioral and health sciences, and Bowie State University (BSU), a top comprehensive university and one of the nation’s oldest historically Black colleges and universities, have signed an articulation agreement providing a new path to graduate school for BSU psychology students.

“This agreement opens doors to exciting new opportunities for our students who wish to pursue career positions that have become integral to our nation’s health care system,” said Bowie State University President Aminta H. Breaux. “We are excited to see what our graduates accomplish in collaboration with TCSPP as they enter an increasingly diverse – and competitive – workforce and become pillars of their communities.”

The agreement enables active Bowie State psychology undergraduate students to take graduate-level courses at the TCSPP Washington, DC campus, while completing their bachelor’s degree at BSU. The courses will count toward their BSU bachelor’s degree and their eventual graduate degree from The Chicago School. The articulation agreement between the institutions takes effect in time for the enrollment during the fall 2021 term at The Chicago School.

“I’m thrilled to be forging this partnership with Bowie State University,” said The Chicago School President Michele Nealon. “Working together, we can graduate generations of diverse professionals who can fundamentally improve the health and wellbeing of communities across the country.”

Active Bowie State student is defined as a student who has been identified as maintaining an active enrollment status under the 2021-2022 catalog requirements, as determined by BSU. Bowie State University students who are in good academic standing are eligible for admission to The Chicago School’s DC campus, and must earn the BSU degree within a year of conditional admission to The Chicago School. Students are also eligible for a one-time scholarship.

(Credit: HLW)

“We are excited about the unique opportunity that The Chicago School of Professional Psychology partnership affords our Bowie State University undergraduates in advancing their education and preparing them for success in the psychology profession,” said Dr. Cheryl Blackman, interim dean of Bowie State’s College of Professional Studies. “We look forward to the development of this partnership that will enable our students to realize their dreams of becoming licensed professionals and working with underserved communities.”

“The agreement between Bowie State University and our institution is a significant milestone,” said Dr. Paula Danquah-Brobby, chair of The Chicago School’s Applied Behavioral Analysis Department. “It will afford undergraduate students belonging to historically disenfranchised groups the opportunity to jump start their graduate school education and access careers in psychology and behavior health.”

Classic Video Games and Millennials

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These days, video games are so advanced that you can feel as though you are immersing yourself in another world when you play. When you consider the invention of technology like VR, you can see why anyone would prefer to play newer games rather than the classic games that had quite basic gameplay. However, there are tons of people out there, including millennials, who enjoy playing classic games for that nostalgic feeling. Read on to find out why these games are still so popular.


That Nostalgic Feeling

First things first, you should note that classic video games can help to offer gamers that nostalgic feeling. While millennials might not have been around when many of these video games were first invented and released, they can tell that they are older games when they play them. They might have even grown up with older siblings playing the games or their parents enjoying them. Many of us enjoy going back to our childhoods and trying out what we did when we were younger. Video games can evoke this feeling, even for adults. There is something special about a nostalgic feeling, especially with older cabinet games.


They Aren’t Always Basic

Classic video games don’t have to be simple, in fact, there are tens of thousands of games out there that were made years ago and are still impressive now. Not only that but you’ll find thatthere are newer games that are created to mimic the classic design. For example, if you were to play a game at an online casino like Mega Joker, you’d probably feel as if you had been transported back in time to when slots were first invented thanks to the fruit machine design. These games are fun to play and involve a lot of moving parts that create an enjoyable experience.

Connecting With the Older Generation

Another reason why millennials like to try their hand at some classic games is the fact that it helps them to connect with the older generation. The kinds of games that are created these days for the big gaming consoles are much more complex and feature a different kind of style than classic games. By playing some of the older games, millennials can connect with their parents and try playing the games that they enjoyed growing up. This is something that also happens with older music as younger generations start listening to artists like The Beatles or Fleetwood Mac.


Huge Range Of Games

Finally, classic video games are so popular with the younger generation because there are just so many to play. Yes, there are always new games being created but the catalogue of games that were created 20 years ago is huge. This kind of choice allows gamers to find something that they enjoy playing, without having to try the next big release. Additionally, these games are often more affordable as they have been around for longer. So, there are tons of options to choose from.

Classic Games Aren’t Going Anywhere

As you can see, there are so many reasons why a millennial might want to try a classic video game over a new release. The truth is that the nostalgic feeling is hard to recreate but video games make it possible. Games developers are noticing the popularity of classic games and are banking on this by re-releasing them and updating older versions. We expect classic games to remain popular with both the older and younger generations for years to come. It is clear that these kinds of arcade games are not going anywhere.

Posted by HBCU Editors Posted on 5717 articles

Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms Announces She Will Not Seek Reelection

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In what she is calling a “very difficult decision,” Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has shared her decision to not seek reelection. Although Atlanta has seen an uptick in crime, the Spelman alumna’s move is puzzling for many who believed the well-known community figure would come back for more. Read about what she had to say about her decision in a piece from Wilborn P. Nobles III and J. D. Capelouto at The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

(Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)

Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said she had been thinking about not running for reelection as early as her first year in office, though she couldn’t point to a specific moment or reason that led her to bow out of the race.

In her first public appearance since announcing her decision to supporters Thursday night, Bottoms said her decision was guided by faith.

“In the same way that it was very clear to me almost five years ago that I should run for mayor of Atlanta, it is abundantly clear to me today that it is time to pass the baton on to someone else,” Bottoms said at an emotional news conference at City Hall.

She added that “the last three years have not been at all what I would have scripted for our city,” referencing a crippling cyber attack, a widening federal corruption investigation into the previous administration, the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest last year.

Bottoms said she doesn’t know what’s next for her; she denied rumors that she or her husband Derek have taken jobs for Walgreens out of state.

“I can’t get Derek to move two miles off Cascade Road,” she said.

(Dustin Chambers)

Bottoms, who was seen as a strong incumbent candidate despite a spike in violent crime, told friends and supporters Thursday evening she won’t seek a second term. She released a video and statement online a few hours later elaborating on her decision and reflecting on her time in office.

“This is not something I woke up and decided yesterday,” Bottoms said Friday. “This is something I’ve been thinking about for a very long time.”

The move is a shocking reversal for Bottoms, a mayor with a rising national profile who had launched her reelection campaign and held a fundraising event featuring President Joe Biden. The decision creates a wide-open mayor’s race this year, and is likely to open the door for a slew of new candidates.

Bottoms said she does not have a chosen successor, but may weigh in on the race later this year.

City Council President Felicia Moore and Dentons attorney Sharon Gay launched campaigns for mayor earlier this year, and Councilman Antonio Brown could also run.

Bottoms, who served on the City Council for eight years, was elected in 2017 in a razor-thin runoff against Mary Norwood.

Miami Dolphins Signs former NCCU Basketball Player Jibri Blount

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The Miami Dolphins today announced that they have signed tight end Jibri Blount. Jibri Blount didn’t play a down of college football, but he’s signed to play as a tight end. Blount is the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback Mel Blount, Southern University Alum. He announced the signing on social media: “Plot twist. I’m in the NFL. Thank you Miami Dolphins for the opportunity, super excited to get to work.”

He also tweeted:

https://twitter.com/jibri_blount/status/1390370993672278017

Blount was a basketball player at North Carolina Central University where he earned MEAC Player of the Year honors as a senior in 2019-20. Blount started 31 games that season, leading the conference in minutes per game (36.8) and steals per game (2.2). He was third in the MEAC in scoring (19.2 points per game), third in rebounding (9.5) and fifth in field goal percentage (52.5).

Jibri’s older brother, Akil, also got his chance with the Dolphins as a free agent after playing linebacker at Florida A&M. The youngest brother, Khalid, plays on the North Carolina Central football team.

Jibri began his basketball career at Cleveland State before transferring to NCC. He averaged 19.2 points, 9.2 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game in his final season of college ball.