Rep. Alma Adams Calls for Immediate Reinstatement of the 1890 Scholars Program 

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Rep. Alma Adams

In a statement released Thursday, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, PhD, reacted to the recent suspension of the USDA’s 1890 Scholars Program. She labeled the move an unjust attack on educational equity for underserved communities nationwide. The Trump-Vance Administration announced the abrupt decision without prior notice after a series of executive orders to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within government programs.

“It is infuriating that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has suspended the 1890 Scholars Program ‘pending further review,” stated Congresswoman Adams, a senior House Committee on Agriculture member. “This is a clear attack on an invaluable program that makes higher education accessible for everybody, and provides opportunities for students to work at USDA, especially in the critical fields of food safety, agriculture, and natural resources that Americans rely on every single day.”

Supporting Students From Rural And Underserved Communities

The 1890 National Scholars Program, established in 1992 as a partnership between the USDA and the 1890 land-grant universities, aims to increase educational and career opportunities for students from rural or underserved backgrounds. The scholarship covers full tuition, fees, books, and room and board for students pursuing degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, and related disciplines. Additionally, it offers valuable work experience at the USDA.

“This program is a correction to a long history of racial discrimination within the land-grant system, not an example of it,” Adams emphasized. She insists that the USDA immediately reverse the suspension and reinstate the program. With the original application deadline for the scholarship set for March 1, 2025, the Congresswoman stressed the urgency of the situation for students counting on this opportunity.

In Fiscal Year 2024, the USDA awarded 94 scholarships through the 1890 program. The 19 participating institutions include historically Black colleges and universities such as Florida A&M University, Alabama A&M University, and North Carolina A&T State University, among others.

With uncertainty surrounding the program’s future, students and supporters are left awaiting a response from the USDA that could further entrench disparities in access to education or pave the way for renewed commitment to equity and inclusion. 

Why El Salvador Still Has Faith in Bitcoin

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Bitcoin

In 2021, El Salvador became the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender. Brought in by President Nayib Bukele, many believed the gamble was too big or was massively ahead of the curve. Last week, a reform was made to the law that saw Bitcoin acceptance curbed. This was so the struggling country could accept $1.4 billion in credit from the International Monetary Fund. However, by no means has the country given up on Bitcoin.

Will Bitcoin maintain its position? 

Yesterday, El Salvador added 11 Bitcoins to its national reserve at a cost of around $1.1 million. This takes the country’s ownership to 6.067 BTC. It has also said that it will grow its reserve, despite not allowing tax payments in Bitcoin. Many believe El Salvador is seeing this as a hedge against inflation, which may be emanating from events elsewhere in the world.
Generally, these overriding economic fears are coming from the US and are also having an impact on the volatility of Bitcoin. When inflation is high, people tend to invest in less risky assets and commodities. This results in the price of Bitcoin falling. When inflation lowers, people invest in riskier assets, raising the price.

Inflation worries tend to stem from tariffs imposed by the US on other countries. When these are put to rest, or when they are delayed as has been seen this week, the price has risen accordingly. The Bitcoin price today signals a positive shift upwards, though it remains volatile. Its current position around the $100,000 mark will be dependent in part on how other countries respond to these tariffs. If they supply a large number of necessary goods to the United States, this could ramp up inflation further. Even the Federal Reserve has stated that its goal of keeping inflation at 2% may need to be adjusted if the current policy continues. If inflation fears remain, then Bitcoin may remain trading sideways.

The long term can be viewed by looking at the bond market. People use the yield curve here, looking at the interest rates of bonds with different maturity periods. People tend to look at long-term bonds as indicative of what the Federal Reserve will do in the future. If they drop, then it could be a sign that less spending and a period of stagflation begin.

There are two other factors that may signal the direction Bitcoin will take. The first of these is that the currency’s recent run was in part down to the incoming government’s stance on a strategic bitcoin reserve. This was said to be a certainty. Yet while the government has signed orders on most of its promises, the Bitcoin reserve is notable by its absence. The government has said it will evaluate this, which means it will be looked at, and that may take some time. It decision will inevitably impact the price.

Another is that market liquidity is also tightening. The Treasury General Account has seen a rise over the last month, despite a self-imposed debt limit. The US is not running down its debts; they are, in fact, getting bigger. This means we may see higher borrowing rates. When this happens, people tend to turn to more traditional, less risky asset classes. 

Pressures on Bitcoin production

Another strain El Salvador must be aware of is the pressure placed on those producing Bitcoin. MARA is one business that has faced difficulties producing Bitcoin. In January, they reported a 12% decline in production from the previous month. While they managed to maintain their hash rate, they did not deploy any new miners in the month. 

The problems facing miners are plentiful. MARA itself cited the extreme weather conditions and intermittent outages as a problem. However, increased energy costs are hitting Bitcoin miners hard. Coupled with a reduction in the reward for producing Bitcoin as of last year, we are not entering a period where the gold rush of Bitcoin mining is over. Companies must be astute in their operations and work out if production is viable anymore.

This could be seen from two angles. If Bitcoin is not being produced, it becomes a much more scarce asset. Thus, prices will rise accordingly, and this would be a benefit to El Salvador, which would see its reserves rise in value. The second scenario is a half-glass empty one, wherein with no Bitcoin being produced, people lose interest in having it. This would lead to a collapse in value.

The economic and historical ties between El Salvador and the US may not seem apparent. However, the country accepts deported migrants and criminals from the US for a sum of money. US events also have a huge impact on Bitcoin, which El Salvador is linked to for better or worse. The future of Bitcoin could be that of El Salvador itself. 

HBCU Student Selected as Legislative Fellow

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Dejanae carter Montaque

Dejanae Carter-Montaque, a political science major at Delaware State University, has been chosen to participate in the Delaware General Assembly’s prestigious Legislative Fellows program for the 2025 legislative session. Thanks to this opportunity, students like Carter-Montaque can interact with state legislators directly and participate in the legislative process. 

The New York City native has always had a strong interest in public service, legislation, and public policy. The senior stated that she hoped to obtain a practical understanding of how laws affect the lives of common people. “I have always wanted to gain firsthand experience in the legislative process and understand how policies are crafted and implemented at the state level,” she said. This desire has influenced her academic journey at DSU.

Focus of the Fellowship

Carter-Montaque wants to concentrate on important topics including criminal justice policies, education reform, and healthcare access during her fellowship. “I would like to address important issues concerning access to healthcare, mental health treatment, and economic inequality. These are problems that plague so many people, and I know I could make a difference through this fellowship,” she stated.

Carter-Montaque will work with lawmakers and staff on a variety of projects at Legislative Hall in Dover three days a week during the fellowship. Taking notes during committee hearings, conducting legislative research, and supporting media and communications initiatives are some of her duties.

Carter-Montaque credits her time at DSU for her readiness to excel in this role. “The courses and professors here have given me a solid foundation in understanding state government,” she said.

Next for Carter-Montaque

After graduation, Carter-Montaque plans to take a year off to prepare for the LSAT and gain more legal or governmental experience. She made it clear that she intends to continue working in public policy, especially in a legislative capacity, prior to attending law school. “This fellowship is a big step in helping me achieve those goals,” she stated.

HBCU Dean Receives Prestigious Phi Theta Kappa Award

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Dr. Larry Webster, Dean of Career and Technical Education at Coahoma Community College, has received the Phi Theta Kappa Distinguished College Administrator Award. The award recognizes his outstanding commitment to student success.

Larry Webster

For two-year college students, PTK is the biggest international society. It offers professional development courses, community service opportunities, scholarships, leadership development programs, and recognition for academic accomplishment. 

CCC students directly nominated Dr. Webster for the award. His honor highlights his important efforts to create a stimulating learning environment. Students have frequently commended his assistance with their academic endeavors.

“I am deeply honored to receive this award, ” said Dr. Webster. “Supporting our students and seeing them succeed is my greatest reward, and this recognition from our outstanding students means the world to me.”

Receiving His Flowers

The award will be presented at the PTK Annual Convention, held at the Kansas City Convention Center in Missouri from April 3 to 5, 2025. Dr. Webster has also been invited to the President’s Luncheon on April 4. 

“These college administrators are beloved on campus—they know students by name and by circumstance,” Phi Theta Kappa president and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner previously said about the award. “This award is special because it comes directly from the students, and it is evidence of the gratitude they feel for the support for them and students like them.”

Following the luncheon, he will formally receive the Distinguished College Administrator Award during the Third General Session in the Grand Ballroom. This event, which brings together thousands of students, advisers, college presidents, and other distinguished guests, is sure to be a highlight. Steve Burns, a well-known children’s television personality best known for his work on Blue’s Clues, will be the special guest speaker.

The campus community is ecstatic about Dr. Webster’s achievements and offers sincere congratulations for this merited recognition. This honor is evidence of how important college administrators are in determining the course of students’ lives.

HBCUs Expand Prison Education Initiatives with $1.3M Grant

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A coalition of South Carolina colleges is set to enhance its prison education programs thanks to a $1.3 million grant to support formerly incarcerated students.

The funding, provided by Ascendium, a Wisconsin-based philanthropic organization, will enable Healthy Routines, a nonprofit based in Columbia, to enhance its technical assistance. The South Carolina Coalition for Higher Education in Prison will also receive funding to hire four new academic reintegration coordinators. Institutions like Benedict College, Claflin University, and Voorhees University currently serve more than 200 jailed students throughout many state prisons and are part of this cooperative initiative.

S.C. Coalition for Higher Education in Prison.

The newly appointed coordinators will be essential in helping students during their incarceration and after they are released from prison. Among their duties will be assisting students in finding housing, developing their employability, and connecting with prospects for more study. 

Second Chances

Preventing recidivism is the ultimate objective. According to a recent state Department of Corrections report, 17% of South Carolina offenders return to jail within three years, highlighting the urgency of these initiatives. The coalition’s programs give incarcerated students a crucial “second chance” following their convictions and the opportunity to earn associate’s or bachelor’s degrees.

“This partnership will enable our scholars to continue their academic journeys post-release and make meaningful contributions to our community and to our world,” said Roslyn Clark Artis, president of Benedict College. 

The expansion of Denmark Technical College’s classes at Allendale Correctional Center from five students in 2021 to eighteen students, with many more interested, is one noteworthy success story. Students who earn associate degrees in business, technology, and science do so in full academic regalia. 

“Our goal is to help our students find their highest and truest selves,” said Denmark Tech President Willie Todd.

This investment is a major step forward for the South Carolina Coalition for Higher Education in Prison, which strives to improve the lives of inmates permanently.

This article sources information from Benedict College.

HBCU Choir Prepares for International Acapella Challenge in Italy 

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Rust College A'Cappella Choir

The A’Cappella Choir at Rust College is thrilled to have received an invitation to compete in the 36th Annual International Verona Competition. The competition is scheduled for March 26–30, 2025, in Verona, Italy. 

Rust College A'Cappella Choir

“We are immensely proud of our A’Cappella Choir’s selection for this prestigious competition,” said Dr. Robert M. Dixon, president of Rust College. “It is a testament to the dedication of our students and faculty, and the rich musical tradition we have cultivated at Rust College.”

The choir is well known for its extensive and diverse repertory, which includes spirituals, anthems, and major compositions. Rust attributes their selection for the Verona Competition, a renowned international choral showcase, in large part to their versatility and unwavering quest for musical perfection.

The beginnings of the Rust College A’Cappella Choir can be traced to the early 1930s. It has left a legacy of outstanding music and cultural influence. They have gained international recognition thanks to their successful tours in Europe and South Africa, as well as their remarkable performance at Notre Dame in Paris, France. They were first guided by alumna Miss Natalie Doxey and are currently led by Dr. Karl Twyner.

“This opportunity to compete on an international stage is both an honor and a challenge that our students are eager to embrace,” added Dr. Twyner. “We look forward to sharing our music and representing Rust College and the United States in Verona.”

How You Can Help

This extraordinary opportunity promises choir members valuable exposure, insightful feedback from distinguished judges and unforgettable experiences. While they have the talent and passion, they need the community’s support to turn this dream into reality. Each student’s expenses for travel, lodging, meals, and competition activities amount to $3,544.00. 

The Rust College community is pooling efforts to generate funds for this worthwhile cause. Donations are welcome to help these gifted students step onto the global stage. To donate and help lift their voice on a world stage, click here. 

HBCU Launches Prepaid Reloadable Card for Students, Alumni, and Supporters

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DSU prepaid card

Delaware State University has become the first-ever HBCU to launch its own prepaid reloadable card. This move offers a fresh and innovative way for students, alums, and supporters to manage their finances while giving back to their university.

The DSU Prepaid Card is made possible through a partnership with HBCU on the Green. This initiative simplifies everyday transactions and enhances users’ financial literacy, allowing DSU to provide vital financial tools that promote growth and independence.

DSU Prepaid Card Flexes

The DSU Prepaid Card offers a range of benefits. Users can shop at millions of locations worldwide where prepaid cards are accepted, both online and in-store. Moreover, the card makes managing finances on the go flexible and convenient, with simple, instant money sending and receiving.

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One of the most distinctive features of the DSU Prepaid Card is that a portion of each purchase goes directly back to the university, supporting scholarships and university programs. The card also encourages users to stay on top of their budgets by allowing them to load funds and maintain better spending habits.

“This card is about more than just money – it’s about creating financial opportunities, instilling the value of supporting each other, and strengthening the bonds of our DSU community,” said Dr. Dawn Mosley, interim Aaministrator of the Division of Institutional Advancement & DSU Foundation, and senior associate vice president of marketing & communications. “We’re excited to provide students, alumni, faculty and staff the option for a Hornet brand card that gives back.”

That’s not all. Perhaps one of its most appealing aspects is the accessibility it offers. No traditional bank account is required, direct deposit options are available, and users can receive their paychecks or refunds straight onto their cards.

Additionally, the card includes fraud protection features and real-time alerts. While there is a monthly maintenance fee of $4.95 for students ages 17-25, purchases incur no extra fees.

More To Come

Looking ahead, Dr. Mosley indicated that the university plans to collaborate with local vendors and businesses to offer exclusive discounts for those using the prepaid Hornet card, further incentivizing community support.

For more information on obtaining a DSU Prepaid Card and reaping its benefits, click here.  

This article sources information from Delaware State University.

Fisk University Names Nuriya Mack Interim Head Coach of Gymnastics

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Nuriya Mack

Fisk University has proudly announced that Nuriya Mack has been appointed interim head coach for gymnastics. Mack is no stranger to the program. She has significantly contributed to the historic program for over a year.

Mack was hired by former head coach Corrinne Tarver in 2023 to serve as meet director and social media manager. She played an integral role in the team’s successes, particularly during a period of considerable growth in those roles. Mack brings experience in coaching, athlete mentoring, and event management to her new role.

Leading The Team Forward

“I am thrilled to lead Fisk’s gymnastics team and continue building upon the team’s success,” said Mack. “It is an honor to guide these student-athletes and contribute to the program’s growth.”

Before joining Fisk, Mack was the lead coach and program director at GYSTARS Gymnastics, where she spearheaded competitive teams and managed events like the Aloha from Memphis and Gymnastics Mobility Meet.

“Fisk has built a strong gymnastics program that has become a beacon of light for the university and young ladies nationwide,” said Fisk University athletic director Valencia Jordan. “The future of Fisk University’s gymnastics program remains bright and dynamic. The university is poised to embrace new leadership and will continue to fervently support our young women who give their all in every competition.”

This leadership change comes after Coach Corrinne Tarver stepped down. Tarver was the first to lead an HBCU women’s gymnastics program. She made a lasting impact on the program by partnering with Black Girls Gymnastics to establish a solid foundation for excellence. Fisk University has expressed gratitude for Tarver’s leadership in paving the way for the program’s future.

Fisk plans to conduct a national search for a permanent head coach as part of this transition. 

Fisk’s gymnastics team is gearing up for its next challenge, which is against Greenville University in Illinois at 2 p.m. on Friday. 

This article sources information from Fisk University.

Game On: HBCU Fosters Critical Thinking with Chess Events

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Chess

Albany State University’s University College recently opened its doors to acclaimed hip-hop journalist and chess historian Adisa Banjoko. Banjoko led two enriching events to highlight the intersections of chess, critical thinking, and self-representation. The gatherings on the ASU East Campus and at Sherwood Elementary School allowed ASU students to engage in a unique service activity while inspiring local youth.

Chesssocial

“We were happy to have Mr. Banjoko present in a way that not only enhances the experiences of first-year students at ASU, but also supports our community by building stronger relationships with local elementary schools in our area,” said Dr. Tiffany Pogue from the University College. 

The first event was a hands-on workshop where students delved into chess’s strategic and analytical elements. Participants strengthened their critical thinking abilities through gameplay and engaged in conversations, and fostered relationships among staff, faculty, and peers. Thanks to this interactive style, students learned about chess and how these methods may be applied to their academic adventures.

Bishop Move

After the ASU workshop, the program was extended to Sherwood Elementary School. ASU students took their newly learned chess skills and shared them with the younger students. The university’s commitment to working with the Dougherty County School System on education was reaffirmed by this service-learning opportunity. It is an example of how knowledge can be passed down and converted into active community involvement.

University College at ASU is pivotal in supporting first- and second-year students as they transition to college life. UC aims to foster a nurturing learning environment by aiding students in exploring career paths and aligning personal interests with academic pursuits. Students benefit from small classes, internship programs, study abroad opportunities, and various activities to enhance their academic and social experiences.

Through initiatives like these, ASU is paving the way for a generation of thoughtful leaders equipped with critical skills while simultaneously strengthening the ties with the surrounding community.

HBCU Medical Student and Army Veteran Honored at Nashville Predators Game

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Cpl. Kameron Woodard-El

Meharry Medical College student Cpl. Kameron Woodard-El made history by becoming the first student from the institution to be recognized during a Nashville Predators game for his military service.

The match was Woodard-El’s first hockey game. “The experience was amazing,” the Army veteran said. “The crowd was amazing. It was just a lot of gratitude; I was very thankful for the opportunity to represent Black veterans as a whole.” The recognition came as part of the Nashville Predators’ Military Salute Program, which honors active and veteran military personnel at home games throughout the season.

“To Black service members, all service members, thank you for your service. To the Predators, thank you for your appreciation and contribution to giving back to those who served, and thank you for your representation with Black Music Heritage Night. I really appreciate the opportunity to allow Meharrians to represent that night,” said Woodard-El with gratitude.

A Family Legacy

Woodard-El’s determination to serve is rooted in family legacy. His grandfather, James Blackwell Jr., a veteran of the Korean War, played an instrumental role in inspiring his military journey. His military journey started early when he got involved in the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps during high school. That led to him enlisting in the United States Army, where he dedicated three and a half years on active duty, followed by a year with the Michigan National Guard.

His passion for medicine sparked while serving in the Army. Basic combat lifesaver training turned out to be pivotal when a drill sergeant emphasized the importance of the skills.  “He said, ‘Pay attention to what you learn in this course because one day, when things hit the fan, you might be responsible for making sure that somebody’s loved one goes back home,’ Woodard-El remembers. This impactful lesson left him wide-eyed and eager to delve deeper into the medical field.

Now, as a student at Meharry Medical College, Cpl. Woodard-El is pursuing a career in internal medicine. He plans to specialize in cardiology. 

This article sources information from Meharry Medical College.

Winston-Salem State’s Band Director Appointed President of HBCU-NBODC

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The HBCU National Band and Orchestra Directors’ Consortium has appointed Winston-Salem State University’s director of bands, Dr. Michael Magruder, as its president. In this prestigious role, Magruder leads the only national conference specifically tailored for HBCU band directors and students for a two-year term, which started in 2024.

Dr. Michael Magruder
Dr. Michael Magruder

The HBCU-NBODC is committed to advancing musical excellence at Historically Black Colleges and Universities by uniting music educators, directors, and performers nationwide. The consortium’s significant focuses are collaboration and professional development. 

“I am extremely thrilled and excited to serve as president of this prestigious organization,” Magruder said. “I became involved with the organization in 2004. Since that time, the WSSU band program has attended each conference, and our students have represented the university well.”

Central to HBCU-NBODC’s mission is the belief in the transformative power of music education. The consortium ensures that student musicians receive the mentorship and resources they need to succeed. It also aims to celebrate the legacy of Black music while fostering innovation and growth for future musical leaders.

“My hope is that all HBCU directors see the value in an organization that focuses on HBCU band and orchestra directors,” Magruder said.

As president of the HBCU-NBODC, Magruder will act as the official spokesperson for HBCU directors and actively encourage other HBCU band directors to attend the 2025 conference. He will also work closely with the consortium’s executive board to plan the convention, which will serve as a forum for exchanging creative concepts, industry best practices, and materials to improve music education.

Before the Red Sea of Sound

Red Sea of Sound Marching Band
Red Sea of Sound Marching Band

The Jackson, Mississippi native brings a strong academic background and experience to his new position. In 1979, he graduated from Louisiana State University with a Master of Music degree in clarinet performance. In 2001, he received a PhD from the University of Mississippi. Before moving on to director positions at other schools, including Texas College and Jackson State University, he started his career as band director at Sadie V. Thompson Jr. High School in Natchez, Mississippi.

Since joining Winston-Salem State University in 2004, Magruder has cultivated the Red Sea of Sound Marching Band into an award-winning ensemble. Under his leadership, band members have earned scholarships and awards recognizing their talent.

This article sources information from Winston-Salem State University.

Athletic Leaders Call on Congress to Protect HBCU Sports

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On Feb. 17, 2025, commissioners from the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, and Southwestern Athletic Conference sent a united, pressing appeal to the Congressional Black Caucus for legislative support. The letter details critical challenges HBCUs face in the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.

In their letter, the commissioners expressed concerns that recent judicial rulings and regulatory changes could jeopardize opportunities for HBCU athletic programs. They highlighted that these programs often rely more heavily on institutional funding and donations rather than generating significant revenue. This makes them particularly vulnerable to uncertainties arising from debates over student-athletes’ classification as employees.

“There continues to be a growing patchwork of state laws impacting college sports and creating disparities and confusion among our prospective and current student-athletes. The disparate laws and increasing court decisions have made it difficult for conferences like ours to continue to provide developmental and competition opportunities for member institutions and student-athletes,” the letter reads. “Retention is also a challenge within our HBCU student-athlete population due to increasing differences in state laws and legal activity that have all but eliminated a level playing field.”

Along with diminishing retention rates and future participation in HBCU sports, the commissioners warn that recognizing student-athletes as employees could severely disrupt HBCU athletic programs and even eliminate intercollegiate competitions.

The letter highlights recent initiatives to enhance the student-athlete experience, such as scholarship protections, financial literacy training, mental health assistance, and health coverage. “Amid these looming outside threats, there has also been significant internal transformation during President Charlie Baker’s first two years leading the NCAA,” the letter reads. Although these initiatives are praiseworthy, the commissioners emphasize that congressional backing is crucial to sustaining advancements and defending HBCU interests.

The commissioners’ request begs for federal legislation that creates uniform rules and regulations for HBCU athletic programs and aims to guarantee that student-athletes are not categorized as employees. 

The commissioners have requested meetings with CBC members in February or March about these issues.

HBCU Launches Buzz Tour to Engage Future Students Across Alabama and Georgia

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Alabama State University will embark on its much-anticipated Buzz Tour from Feb. 24 to 28. The multi-state outreach effort aims to bring the ASU experience directly to prospective students in Alabama and Georgia. According to Dr. Freddie Williams Jr., ASU’s assistant vice president of Student Affairs/Enrollment Management/Admissions and Recruitment, organizers hope to inspire a new generation of Hornets as the tour takes “ASU to the community that it serves.”

“The Buzz Tour will have ASU leaders, students, faculty, staff and even ‘Stinger’ himself,” Williams explained. The tour is designed to showcase the myriad of academic majors, programs, and activities available at the university to high school students who are gearing up for their college careers.

ASU Buzz Tour
Photo Credit: WSFA News

Starting from the Dunn-Oliver Acadome, the Buzz Tour will visit specific high schools each day. ASU representatives will present information about the university and deliver scholarships to deserving students there. Some lucky seniors will receive these awards on the spot, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the events.

The tour will include stops at notable local high schools, following this schedule:

February 24

  – Mobile’s Murphy High School (9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.)

  – Monroeville’s Monroe County High School (12:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.)

February 25

  – Bessemer’s High School (9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.)

  – Birmingham’s Carver High School (12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m.)

February 26

  – Eutaw’s Greene County High School (9 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.)

  – Marion’s Francis Marion High School (12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m.)

February 27

  – Ellenwood, GA’s Morrow High School (9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. EST)

  – Columbus, GA’s Shaw High School (12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m. EST)

February 28

  – Montgomery’s JAG High School (9 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.)

  – Montgomery’s Carver High School (12 noon – 1:45 p.m.)

Dr. Williams expressed the significance of the Buzz Tour, stating, “Our ASU Buzz Tour is great for both the University and for the high school students who will attend our programs because it offers these prospective students a unique chance to explore new horizons, which will broaden their educational experiences.” He hopes that exposing students in both Alabama and Georgia to ASU’s global perspective will foster a sense of community that encourages them to choose Alabama State University as their next home.

The Buzz Tour promises to be more than just a series of presentations. It is a commitment to fostering connections and cultivating future leaders in their collegiate journeys. 

This article sources information from Alabama State University.

HBCU Launches Paramedic Program to Address Critical Need in D.C.

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Paramedic

The University of the District of Columbia, in partnership with D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services and Mayor Muriel Bowser, announced the launch of a new paramedic program. This program seeks to give emergency medical technicians a path to career advancement through certification in paramedicine.

In order to meet the urgent need for certified paramedics in a city where demand is only growing, the program will give EMTs the chance to obtain either an Associate of Science degree or a Paramedicine Certificate. The average entry-level pay for paramedics in Washington, D.C., is roughly $53,180, which is far more than the average of $38,930 for EMTs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This financial reward emphasizes how crucial this certification is for professional advancement.

A Healthier, Safer DC

“Today’s announcement exemplifies UDC’s commitment to serving as the District’s workforce and economic mobility engine,” said UDC President Maurice D. Edington. “Our new paramedic program represents a transformative opportunity for EMTs to gain critical skills through high-quality education and training, to grow in their careers, and ultimately to contribute to the health and safety of their communities.”

The UDC Community College dean, Marilyn Hamilton, echoed these sentiments. She highlighted the dual goals of meeting workforce demands while providing educational advancement. “By offering both a certificate and an associate degree pathway, we are ensuring that our graduates are prepared to meet the immediate demands of the workforce while also laying the groundwork for future educational and professional growth,” Hamilton stated. “This initiative is an important step in strengthening our city’s emergency response network and providing EMTs with the tools they need to succeed.”

Up to 20 students per cohort will be admitted to the program, which is scheduled to enroll its first cohort in fiscal year 2026. Participants will go through a thorough training program that consists of field internships, classroom lectures, and training in practical skills. EMTs who live in D.C. and work for nearby emergency medical service providers are eligible to enroll.

DCFEMS has committed $1.9 million over two fiscal years to fund this effort. This money will pay for necessary expenses, including infrastructure, staff, and educational materials. Furthermore, DCFEMS will support student recruitment, supply educational resources, and enable clinical encounters across many healthcare settings.

 Howard University Hospital will serve as the lead clinical partner for the program.

This article sources information from the University of the District of Columbia.

Atlanta Falcons Partner Rashaun Williams Pledges Four Years of Salary to HBCU

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Rashaun WIlliams

Rashaun Williams, a venture capitalist and part-owner of the Atlanta Falcons, has announced an extraordinary commitment to his alma mater, Morehouse College, by pledging to donate his entire salary from the team over the next four years.

The groundbreaking announcement was made on Feb. 15 at the 37th Annual “A Candle in the Dark” Gala, where Williams received the Bennie Trailblazer Award. During his heartfelt address, he expressed profound gratitude for Morehouse.

“One thing I’ve always wanted my entire life, coming from the South Side of Chicago, was just stability. I remember going to Crown Forum and freshman orientation and learning all the things I learned at Morehouse and eventually getting to Wall Street, Williams stated. “One thing Morehouse gave me that no one else has been able to give me in my entire life is that stability. For four years, Morehouse poured into me, and in return, I would like to donate my entire salary for the next four years back to Morehouse.”

Williams, a proud alumnus of the Class of 2001, is widely recognized not just for his role with the Falcons but also as a prominent figure in venture capital. With a notable track record of over 170 investments and more than 50 successful exits, he co-founded Queensbridge Venture Partners and served as a guest Shark on ABC’s “Shark Tank.” His extensive experience includes roles at prestigious financial institutions such as Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank, where he honed his expertise in driving capital into diverse markets.

Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, Williams faced numerous challenges, including poverty and instability. These hardships motivated him to seek answers and solutions that could uplift his community. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and improvement led him to Morehouse College, where he graduated at the top of his class and laid the foundation for a successful career.

In addition to his business ventures, Williams is passionate about community empowerment and financial literacy. In 2001, he founded the Kemet Institute, which provides free financial education to underserved communities. He recently established Antimatter Business Partners to guide professional athletes and entertainers manage their private equity family offices.

Williams’ recognition at the gala was not solely a celebration of his contributions to finance and entrepreneurship but also his commitment to uplifting the next generation of leaders. As a Kappa Alpha Psi, Inc. member and a board member of The Atlanta Opera, he remains dedicated to academic excellence and community service.

His generous pledge to Morehouse exemplifies his belief in education’s transformative power and commitment to giving back to the institution that shaped his path.

This article sources information from Morehouse College.