A $500,000 Title III HBCU Part F grant awarded in 2020 is helping Morgan State University’s Beulah M. Davis Special Collections Department transform access to the school’s rich history through new digital projects.
As part of its commitment to creating an open-access digital repository, the Davis Room has successfully digitized historical materials, allowing scholars, students, and the general public to learn more about Morgan’s past than ever before.
Now Available Online
Among the newly digitized materials are publications such as “The Spokesman,” Morgan’s student-produced newspaper which ran from 1944 to 2012, and more than 50 full-color editions of the university’s yearbook, “The Promethean,” from documenting campus life from 1937 to 2019.
Also available online are the “Morgan Mirror,” a faculty-produced newspaper from the 1980s and 1990s featuring over 40 issues, and the “Morgan State University Women Collection,” which compiles newsletters, programs, and archival materials celebrating the contributions of women at Morgan from 1939 to 2019.
“This effort represents a transformative step toward modernization and accessibility,” said Dr. Ida E. Jones, associate director of Special Collections and University Archivist. “By digitizing these invaluable collections, we ensure that Morgan’s rich history is preserved and made readily available to anyone, anywhere, at any time. This initiative empowers students, researchers, and the broader public with unrestricted access to critical historical narratives.”
Students and faculty now have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world archival settings and prepare for careers in digitization, data mining, and information retrieval.
Coming Soon
These digitized collections are available under the Digital Collections section on the Davis Room website. The next phase of the digitization project will convert Morgan State’s course catalogs from as far back as the late 1800s into digital formats.
Additionally, the Davis Room plans to introduce academic internships for students interested in analog and digital archival processes, creating pathways for hands-on experience managing historical documents.
Dr. Byron D’Andra Orey, a political science professor at Jackson State University, has been elected president of the Southern Political Science Association. In his new role, Orey now leads one of the nation’s oldest and largest political science organizations.
Dr. Byron D’Andra Orey
“Being elected president of the is a profound honor that reflects the trust and confidence my peers have placed in me to lead this prestigious organization,” Orey expressed following the announcement. His journey with the SPSA began 30 years ago when he first joined the association as a graduate student. Orey has served two terms on the SPSA executive committee and held various leadership positions during its annual conferences.
The SPSA was founded in 1929 to advance research and set professional standards in the field. Each year, the SPSA hosts an annual conference highlighting political science and related research and publishes the “Journal of Politics,” which includes contributions from renowned industry professionals worldwide.
Orey will be instrumental in organizing and arranging the SPSA’s 2026 annual conference, which will be held in New Orleans, in his new role as president. Additionally, he will lead its next virtual meeting this summer. His duties will also include ensuring the organization’s financial stability, supporting programs to improve the subject of political science, and working with other significant groups to promote the profession.
Putting a Spotlight on JSU
“I hope to enhance our understanding of political phenomena by bringing together scholars with diverse perspectives and methodologies,” Orey stated. He highlighted that while the association has deep roots in southern politics, it is a global platform that transcend regional boundaries. “This leadership role will bring significant exposure to Jackson State University, and enrich our students’ understanding of political science,” he added.
The SPSA promotes various political science fields and subfields, including American politics, comparative politics, international relations, public administration, and political theory.
In addition to his presidential duties, Orey is preparing to release “Mississippi, Conflict and Change: A New Edition,” an updated version of James W. Loewen’s influential 1974 book. The original textbook offers a comprehensive history of Mississippi, from prehistoric times, focusing on the civil rights movement. Orey’s revised edition promises to provide valuable insights into Mississippi’s contemporary politics, culture, and economy, bringing the state’s history into the present. It is set to be released in August of this year.
This article sources information from Jackson State University.
As the host of the Public Relations Student Society of America’s 2025 Southeast District Conference, Clark Atlanta University is poised to make history. This will mark the first PRSSA District Conference held at a Historically Black College or University.
The conference, which is themed “Culture & Communications: Empowering Voices in PR & Media,” will be held at the Comcast Cable Corporation in Atlanta on April 11, 2025. The conference aims to investigate the crucial relationship between communication and culture. CAU’s PRSSA has organized a variety of seminars aimed at elevating marginalized perspectives in the industry for attendees.
“Our mission with this conference is to bridge the gaps between underrepresented voices in communications and explore the intersection of multicultural influences in the PR and communications industry,” said Courteney Sykes, president of the CAU PRSSA and Conference Coordinator. “We aim for students to leave the conference inspired, well-connected, and equipped with the skills and insights needed to succeed in their future careers.”
What to Expect
The conference will include panels with professionals from the field centered around industry issues like creating inclusive campaigns and breaking barriers in media coverage. Interactive workshops and hands-on sessions will cover essential topics like digital innovation, successful branding, and networking tactics. Attendees will also have a chance to network with top PR firms and experts during a Lunch & Learn Career Fair.
Tickets for PRSSA 2025’s Southeast District Conference are currently available. Being the first to host this important conference, Clark Atlanta University is solidifying its role as a trailblazer in shaping the future of public relations.
With his official appointment to the Texas Lyceum Board of Directors, Brandon L. Simmons, the chairman of the Texas Southern University’s Board of Regents, has joined a prestigious group committed to influencing the direction of leadership in the Lone Star State.
Simmons took the oath of office on Jan. 31, 2025, as a member of the Texas Lyceum. This nonpartisan, nonprofit organization has been regarded as Texas’ top leadership institution since its founding in 1980. With 96 members serving two consecutive three-year terms, the Lyceum offers a diversified board representing a range of industries, government, and education in the state.
President George W. Bush, U.S. Senators Ted Cruz and Kay Bailey Hutchison, and Texas Governors Greg Abbott and Rick Perry are among the notable Lyceum alums. Over the years, Lyceum Board alums have significantly impacted civic engagement and public service throughout Texas.
“With a current TSU Chairman and a former TSU Chairman serving together on the 2025 Board of Directors, Texas Southern University is already ringing out in this august body,” Simmons said. “I have no doubt that we will bring the voices of our students with us into conversations about the future of this great state. This is an extraordinary time to be a Texan, and I am grateful for the opportunity to play a role in our state’s future.”
TSU’s participation in the Lyceum Fellows Program demonstrates its dedication to developing student leaders. In recent years, the university has fostered student participation through its Lyceum Fellows Program. Additionally, David Gamble, the former TSU Regent who served as the chair of the Lyceum Board from 1986 to 1987, has contributed to the history of the Lyceum at TSU.
In a momentous occasion that marks progress and tradition, Morehouse College kicked off its 158th anniversary weekend with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new residence hall. This is the institution’s first major construction project in over two decades.
“This is a historic moment for the college and, quite frankly, for Historically Black Colleges and Universities here in Atlanta and around the country because it will be a model of what is possible,” said Morehouse President David A. Thomas during the ceremony.
The residence hall is part of the Campus of the Future Capital Campaign, a key Making Men of Consequence Campaign initiative to modernize and expand the campus to enhance the student experience. The college is raising $500 million to support this ambitious campaign to fund student scholarships, athletics, innovative academic programs, faculty recruitment, and crucial research initiatives.
“Development like this is essential in providing our students with a top-tier learning and living environment,” said Hodan Hassan, vice president of the Office of Institutional Advancement. The residence hall will feature five stories and provide 324 beds within an expansive 88,000 square feet, complete with green spaces, lounge areas, technology rooms, and labs.
President Thomas shared that progress has already been significant, with over $320 million raised thus far. Of that, $170 million is earmarked specifically for the residence hall. He knows that reaching the $500 million goal will be challenging.
“We overcame it in the same way at Morehouse’s inception. There was doubt whether a college for formerly enslaved men was innovative or, was possible, or could be funded. We’re basically showing that Morehouse still swims in the same stream of boldness and opportunity to educate young Black men,” he asserted.
Another Exciting Project
In addition to the new residence hall, Morehouse recently secured a $20 million grant from the Woodruff Foundation to support its next major project, a 58,000-square-foot Campus Center. This facility is set to include a dining hall, rooftop plaza, and collaborative spaces designed for engagement among students, faculty, and alumni.
“We still need $28 million to begin breaking ground,” Thomas said about the Campus Center. “We hope that our community of support will continue to invest in building the campus of the future so that we can provide more state-of-the-art spaces for our scholars to live, learn, and grow into the men of distinction and consequence that they are destined to be.”
Morehouse is calling on alumni, parents, partners, and friends to rally behind the mission and pave the way for a bright future at Morehouse College.
This article sources information from Morehouse College.
In response to criticism, the U.S. Department of Agriculture resumed its 1890 National Scholars Program just days after being suspended. The decision reversal means this significant educational opportunity for students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities continues.
Just one week after the 1890 Scholars Program unexpectedly halted, the USDA website showed on Monday that it had returned. This program covers full tuition, fees, books, and housing assistance for students pursuing agricultural, food, and natural resource sciences degrees at 19 land-grant universities.
In Fiscal Year 2024, USDA awarded 94 scholarships, demonstrating the program’s impact on student success in the agri-food sectors. Lawmakers and activists criticized last week’s suspension decision, calling it an assault on educational equity that disproportionately impacted marginalized populations.
Suspension Backlash
The USDA’s earlier decision rocked the HBCU community, raising concerns that students would lose the scholarship opportunity. Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, PhD, called the original program suspension “a clear attack” on access to education and highlighted its role in correcting historical inequities within the land-grant system.
In a statement, Shannan Frank Reeves Sr., Alabama A&M University’s vice president of government affairs, voiced worries that the halt may hurt Alabama’s agriculture industry, which makes up 60% of the state’s GDP, before the program’s reopening. She added that global issues like avian flu and wildfires only increase the risks of halting the program.
The USDA has extended the scholarship’s initial application deadline of March 1 to March 15. The recent back and forth highlights the continuous debates about diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education funding. Many are optimistic that increased program support will secure its future for more generations of students.
Students interested in applying must be U.S. citizens, maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0, score a minimum of 21 on the ACT or 1080 on the SAT, and be accepted into or currently attend one of the 19 designated 1890 land-grant universities.
When Kyle Stampley walked onto Central State University campus as a freshman, he tried to stay under the radar. It wasn’t long before the reserved business marketing major evolved into KB Thee MC, the lively campus figure he is today.
“I may have been thrown in with the sharks, but luckily, I learned how to swim,” Stampley said, reflecting on his transformative journey through college. His entrance into the hosting world came shortly after stepping foot on campus. His now mentors, DJ BriTheBull and Kay Money, inspired him, alongside other supporters like JaanMo. “Bri and Kay convinced me to start hosting, even though I was quiet and reserved at the time. A few days later, they called me to bring my guys to my first-ever party, and from then on, I’ve had a mic in my hand and a smile on my face,” he recalled.
Even though Stampley enjoys his job, there have been difficulties along the way. During his sophomore year, he lost his grandmother, which put his resilience to the test. He says he managed that difficult phase with the help of his university community. He gives special thanks to the priceless advice of his counselor, Mrs. Harvey.
“Dropping out was never an option because I knew that’s not what she would’ve wanted,” he said about his grandmother. This motivation drives him to succeed and uplift others while doing so. “What I’m most proud of is my humility, which I strive to maintain despite the attention, hype, and distractions that come with being in the entertainment industry.”
Stampley has received recognition, including being named one of HBCU Buzz’s Top 5 HBCU Hosts. Yet, accolades are not what fuel his fire; it’s his genuine desire to impact others’ lives positively. “I’m passionate about making others feel valued, whether it’s through small gestures like giving flowers or leaving kind notes around campus,” he said. “My ultimate goal is to brighten people’s days and bring a smile to everyone I encounter.”
Offstage, Stampley plans to pursue a master’s degree, establish a mentor/mentee program for men within the university and surrounding community, and create a documentary about his HBCU experience to inspire potential students.
Tennessee State University’s successful end-of-year giving campaign raised over $600,000 to support graduating seniors. This accomplishment was largely made possible by the matching contribution pledge made by renowned alumni Amos Otis and Brenda Otis. They promised on Giving Tuesday that they would match every donation.
Under the #FutureReadyTSU campaign, #CloseTheGap aims to alleviate the financial challenges faced by students nearing graduation. The campaign will significantly impact this initiative thanks to the Otises and the overwhelming response from alums and supporters.
“As an alumnus myself, I am extremely proud of the fact that alumni giving has increased from previous years,” shared interim President Dwayne Tucker. “Tennessee State University is a great institution, and with continued alumni and community support, this university will continue to be a key part of the community and this city’s growth.”
The Otis family has long supported TSU. Amos established SoBran, Inc. in 1987 and is the company’s president and CEO. The company specializes in global bioscience, logistics, and SafeMail® services for government and commercial clients. Amos is also the vice chairman of the TSU Foundation Board. His wife, Brenda, is a retired broadcast television production and management professional with experience at major networks like ABC, CBS, and NBC. She also played a key role in creating BET News.
“Each dollar raised was a testament to the power of the TSU community,” said Dr. LoLita Toney, vice president of Institutional Advancement. “Every gift, no matter the size, reflects a shared belief in our students and their ability to change the world.”
The campaign’s success proves the long-lasting impact of alum involvement in creating brighter futures for students.
Baltimore is ready to prove why it is the perfect host for sporting events. From Feb. 25 to March 1, the CFG Bank Arena will host the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournament, bringing together the best HBCU matchups in an electric atmosphere.
The move from Charlotte to Baltimore isn’t just a geographical shift but a chance to recenter the focus on the game and community interaction itself. The city’s goal is to keep the light on the sports, people, and their performances. Baltimore wants the excitement of the competition to fuel supporters to cheer on their teams and give their full attention to the action on the court.
“CIAA and Baltimore go together like Old Bay and crabs—it just makes sense,” said Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “For the fourth year in a row, we’re proud to host this historic tournament, bringing unmatched Black excellence, culture, and legacy right here to Charm City.”
Baltimore’s bustling charm includes a passionate fan base, a great sports legacy, and CFG Bank Arena’s state-of-the-art amenities, which guarantee fans can be engaged in the action rather than merely watching.
Beyond the Court
Photo Credit: James McQueen, Chief Photographer, City of Baltimore
Maryland has emerged as an epicenter of Black leadership and culture, boasting the Country’s only Black Governor, a Black Mayor, and is home to one of the Country’s two Black women Senators. The city is a collage of creativity, history, and cultural diversity, saturated with live music and colorful street art and museums like the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, the largest African American museum in Maryland, and the Baltimore Times’ newly launched “Creatively Black Baltimore” pop-up exhibition. Tournament attendees can dive into these cultural hubs in between matchups to enhance the overall experience.
Baltimore‘s diverse attractions also range from historic neighborhoods like Fells Point to the memorable Inner Harbor, providing opportunities for exploration that both basketball fans and general tourists would enjoy getting lost in.
Come Hungry
So, what sets Baltimore apart from other cities? For starters, the city offers an incredibly diverse food scene, which is a direct reflection of its rich global roots. Visitors can sample this diverse food scene by enjoying some of Maryland’s famous crab cakes or indulging in Berger cookies.
Baltimore’s Black-owned Restaurant Tour, which features 20 restaurants from cozy cafés to upscale dining, adds another layer to the city’s vibrant dining scene and rich culture. This year-long initiative invites locals and tourists to sample diverse flavors while supporting the city’s black-owned businesses.
Same Place Next Year
Founded in 1912, the CIAA holds the honor of being the oldest historic Black athletic conference in the United States. With the agreement to stay in Baltimore until 2026, players and supporters can look forward to a distinct fusion of sport and Baltimore’s unique local culture as part of their tournament experience.
As Black History Month unfolds, the spotlight shines brightly on numerous historical figures who have shaped the narrative of the African American experience, from activists like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks to cultural icons such as Maya Angelou and James Baldwin. However, reflecting on the past, it is equally important to recognize the current wave of leaders emerging from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. These alumni are breaking barriers and redefining what leading in today’s society means.
From entertainment to politics to technology to social justice, HBCU graduates exemplify the spirit of resilience and innovation that has long been associated with these institutions. They are taking on previously thought unattainable roles and proving that excellence for the Black community is an aspiration and a legacy. Today’s HBCU alums include CEOs, award-winning artists, political leaders, and entrepreneurs who continue to uplift their communities while paving pathways for future generations.
Among this trailblazing group are notable figures like Kamala Harris, the former United States Vice President and a proud graduate of Howard University. Harris’s historic ascension reflects the kind of transformative leadership that HBCUs cultivate. Meanwhile, other illustrious alums, such as Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion from Texas Southern University and NBA player Chris Paul from Winston-Salem State University, showcase the vibrant culture and talent that these institutions nurture.
As the legacy of Black excellence continues, we want to highlight 36 remarkable alums currently making significant impacts in their respective fields.
36 Notable HBCU Alumni Making an Impact Today
Leadership
Kamala Harris (Howard University) – Vice President of the United States (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.)
Tamara Bates (Philander-Smith University) – Director of Community Engagement for Tennessee Democratic Party (Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.)
Kamau Marshall (Texas Southern University) – Former Senior Advisor for Kamala Harris (Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.)
Andres Martin (Howard University) – Founder/Executive Director of HBCU Night
Entertainment
2 Chainz (Alabama State University & Virginia State University) – Rapper
Emondre Johnson, an animal science graduate of Alabama A&M University, has always had a deep affection for animals. While in high school, he gained crucial experience as an intern at veterinary clinics. On Feb. 22, The Bark Park opened in his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama, and that love blossomed into a successful business.
“I created The Bark Park because I’ve always known I wanted to work with animals, but not as a veterinarian,” says Johnson. “With my background in animal science, hands-on experience in veterinary clinics, and deep understanding of dog behavior, I knew I could build something special – not just a business, but a welcoming environment where pets and their owners can enjoy quality services and a sense of community.”
The Bark Park/Photo Credit: Alabama A&M University
The Bark Park promises to be more than just a place for dogs to play. Johnson carefully designed it to offer pet owners who want to unwind at the coffee bar while their furry companions play or get groomed.
“The Bark Park offers more than just pet services – it’s a lifestyle destination,” he explains. “Owners can relax at our coffee bar while their pets enjoy safe play, professional grooming, and even high-quality pet photography, creating lasting memories.”
The Bark Park will also function as an education hub for pet owners. Workshops in body language, stress management, dog behavior, basic obedience training, and nutrition aim to help pet owners better understand and care for their animals.
For Johnson, this entrepreneurial leap is not just about business. It reflects a lifetime of passion and dedication. “My family is excited and happy for me. They know I’ve been at this my whole life,” he says.
Tennessee State University kicked off its inaugural Black History Month tour this month. This project aims to recognize the significant cultural contributions made by African Americans to Nashville. The tour included stops at the Fisk University Galleries, the National Museum of African American Music, and the Jefferson Street Sound Museum.
TSU faculty, staff, and students traveled on TSU’s charter bus with expert guides who illustrated African Americans’ artistic, musical, and historical significance. Tonya Turner, senior assistant and training coordinator for TSU’s business and finance department, played a pivotal role in organizing the tour. Inspired by an orientation bus tour for new employees, she expanded the concept into a dedicated event for Black History Month.
The Inspiration Behind the Tour
“I overheard a few employees discussing the history of Jefferson Street,” Turner said. “At first, I wanted to focus solely on Jefferson Street, but then I thought, why not create a Black History Month tour instead?”
Olivia Whitmore, a Nashville native and junior majoring in family and consumer sciences, learned about the tour through an advisor. “It was enlightening to learn about our history in such a personal and engaging way. I appreciate TSU providing these opportunities during Black History Month; it really deepens our connection to our culture,” Whitmore shared.
TSU faculty, staff at The Fisk University Galleries during an inaugural Black History Month tour. (Photo courtesy Tennessee State University/ Aaron Grayson)
Kristian Butler, another student, shared her experience at The National Museum of African American Music. “My favorite experience was watching the ‘Roots Theatre’ documentary and seeing how African American music has transitioned and evolved throughout history and around the world,” said Butler, who is from Memphis,” Butler stated.
During the tour, attendees explored interactive exhibits emphasizing Black music’s evolution and its influence on various genres. The tour concluded at The Jefferson Street Sound Museum, where many participants gained a newfound appreciation for Nashville’s rich Black music scene.
Participants received gift bags filled with TSU memorabilia to commemorate the event, sealing a day built on gratitude, education, and empowerment.
This article sources information from Tennessee State University.
Jackson State University alumni and student-athletes gathered at the Mississippi State Capitol for the yearly JSU Day at the Capitol event. Lawmakers recognized the university’s recent achievements, including winning the national football championship and progress in other programs.
During the event, Senator Sollie. Norwood (D), a JSU alumnus, introduced JSU football, softball, and tennis team members from the Senate floor, honoring them for their academically and athletically impressive performances. The J5 drum majors and the Prancing J-Settes from JSU’s renowned Sonic Boom of the South marching band were also present.
Sen. Sollie Norwood introduces representatives of his alma mater to his fellow senators. (Aron Smith/University Communications)
“[[The year] 2024 was a valiant year for THEE I Love, from the classroom, with a conference-high grade point average, to record success in the respective arenas: the softball field, the tennis court, the Super Bowl, the Celebration Bowl, and the prestigious Rose Bowl,” Norwood said during his address.
A highlight of the day was when Senator Norwood presented a resolution to Coach T.C. Taylor, who led the football team to victory in its third bowl appearance in four years. “I really appreciate the invite down to the Capitol,” Taylor said. “Two years ago, I came down and spoke to you guys following the SWAC Championship, and here it is two years later, and I brought something extra: a national championship.”
Coach T.C. Taylor accepts Norwood’s resolution. (Aron Smith/University Communications)
JSU Day at the Capitol also serves as a platform for university leaders to advocate for essential campus needs. Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., president of JSU, used the event to list the university’s top needs. His list included upgrades to the Rose E. McCoy and T.B. Ellis buildings and the Heritage Dining Halls. He also underlined the need for more student housing and stricter safety regulations to handle the university’s growing enrollment.
The 2025 Mississippi legislative session will wrap up later this spring. JSU looks forward to ongoing assistance in furthering its goals and enhancing campus amenities.
This article sources information from Jackson State University.
To educate and inspire, the new documentary “Brown Hands, Black Schools” aims to explain Historically Black Colleges and Universities’ cultural impact and historical significance to young children. The film is adapted from a published children’s book by Latoya Turner, a Central State University alumna.
Aria and Walter, the book’s two main characters, are followed as they visit a cousin at a Homecoming celebration. While there, the two experience the vibrancy of marching bands, step shows, and football games. Producer Angela Davis says it is important to introduce children to HBCUs early. “A lot of young people don’t find out about historically black colleges and universities. And so they’re well into their high school years,” she told WDTN.
The filmmakers blended live-action and animation to bring the story to life. “We also wanted kids to know that this isn’t imaginary; this is real,” Davis explained to WDTN.
Davis and her team delve into the triumphs of HBCU alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields—from inventors like Tuskegee University graduate Lonnie Johnson, creator of the Super Soaker, to influential figures in politics, science, and the arts. Along with celebrating the joys of HBCU culture, the film also confronts the struggles faced by these institutions throughout history.
The documentary team is collaborating with schools and libraries nationwide to offer free screenings and literacy workshops. The “Brown Hands, Black Schools” premiere screening will take place at the Dayton Metro Library on Saturday at 1 p.m.
“It’s up to us to make sure that our young people understand their greatness,” Davis said. “We have to be the village. And this book and our film is a part of that village helping our young people understand their greatness.”
In a move towards greater diversity and representation within the University System of Georgia, Rep. Floyd Griffin introduced House Bill 203. This bill seeks to ensure that at least one Historically Black College or University graduate holds an at-large position on the Board of Regents by January 1, 2028. By 2031, this figure would increase to a minimum of two HBCU graduates.
Rep. Floyd Griffin
“Under HB 203, we commit to accurately representing our state’s university system by guaranteeing that a position of the Board of Regents is held by a member of a HBCU,” said Griffin.
The bill mandates that the at-large members be graduates of one of Georgia’s ten HBCUs. These institutions include Albany State University, Clark Atlanta University, Fort Valley State University, Interdenominational Theological Center, Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, Morris Brown College, Paine College, Savannah State University, and Spelman College. Importantly, these institutions must meet federal eligibility requirements as of January 1, 2025, to qualify under this legislation.
Prioritizing Diversity
This legislative effort underscores a growing recognition of HBCUs’ vital role in fostering academic excellence and community leadership among Black students and other underrepresented groups. Griffin’s initiative aims to enhance representation on the Board of Regents and ensure that the decision-making process reflects the diverse perspectives of Georgia’s student population.
As this legislation moves through the legislative process, supporters see it as a critical step towards creating a university system that mirrors the demographics of its student body. By prioritizing HBCU graduates in leadership roles, Georgia would proactively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within its educational framework.
As House Bill 203 progresses, all eyes will be on the Georgia legislature to see how this pivotal change unfolds and what it means for the future of education in the Peach State.
The loss of cherished coach and player Sean Wallace has left the Southern University football community in mourning. At 52, Wallace lost his fight with pancreatic cancer. He was a Hall of Fame player and a cornerstone of the Jaguars football program.
Wallace’s journey with cancer became public in 2023 when he openly discussed his fight against stage four pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by love and support from his family, who proudly wore “#SeanStrong” shirts during the 2023 Bayou Classic, where he served as acting head coach.
The New Orleans native idolized the Bayou Classic and considered it a homecoming. As a standout player on the Jaguars’ legendary team during the early 1990s, he earned numerous accolades, including Bayou Classic MVP and SWAC Defensive Player of the Year. His career included playing in the NFL with the Arizona Cardinals before he turned his focus to coaching and ministry.
Wallace led the Jaguars to victory again in his final appearance at the Bayou Classic last November. It was a fitting tribute to a man who exemplified his team’s spirit.
Throughout his life, Wallace demonstrated unwavering dedication on and off the field. After a 25-year hiatus, he returned to Southern University to complete his degree. He was also a devoted husband for 28 years, a loving father, and a proud grandfather.
Wallace had always had a strong desire to coach young athletes. His goal as a safety coach was to instill in his players the same passion that motivated him as a player. In 2011, Wallace was inducted into the Southern Athletic Hall of Fame.
The Southern University football family honors Sean Wallace’s extraordinary life by remembering his accomplishments and significant influence on countless lives.
