HBCU Icons Michael Strahan and Michael Vick Inducted into College Football Hall of Fame

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

The 2025 College Football Hall of Fame Class proudly welcomes two exceptional athletes connected to HBCU football: Michael Strahan, the former defensive lineman from Texas Southern University, and Michael Vick, the new head football coach at Norfolk State University. This induction not only honors their individual achievements but also highlights the significant contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities to college football.

Michael Strahan

During his time with the Tigers from 1989 to 1992, Strahan set career records with 41.5 sacks, including a remarkable single-season total of 19 during his senior year. His performance earned him multiple accolades, such as First-Team All-SWAC honors and the SWAC Defensive Player of the Year in both his junior and senior seasons. Additionally, he was named the Division I-AA Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press. In 1992, he was named the Black College Defensive Player of the Year. 

After college, Strahan was selected in the second round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the New York Giants. Over his 15-year NFL career, he recorded 141.5 sacks, the fifth all-time when he retired. He earhed accolades including Super Bowl champion, Pro Football Hall of Fame and NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

Michael Vick

Michael Vick
Photo Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Joining Strahan in this prestigious class is Michael Vick, revered for transforming the quarterback position during his tenure at Virginia Tech from 1999 to 2000. Vick led the Hokies to an 11-0 regular season in 1999, ultimately securing a spot in the national championship game—marking the first in the school’s history. Vick was recognized as a First Team All-American by the end of his freshman season and was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft. He played 13 seasons in the NFL and earning multiple Pro Bowl selections.

The induction ceremony will take place later this year, celebrating these legends’ outstanding contributions to college football and inspiring future athletes from HBCUs and beyond.

PVAMU’s Kylee Owens Shines as AVCA DI All-American Honorable Mention 

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Kylee Owens

Kylee Owens is making a name for herself on the volleyball court. She has earned a spot on the 2024 American Volleyball Coaches Association Division I All-Americans Honorable Mention Team. This prestigious recognition highlights her exceptional contributions to Prairie View A&M University’s Lady Panthers volleyball team during an outstanding season.

Owens has had a record-breaking year as an outside hitter, amassing 355 kills, 47 aces, and 318 digs throughout the season. Notably, she also surpassed the milestone of 1,000 career kills. 

Kylee Owens
Courtesy of Prairie View A&M University Athletics

Owens’ performance this season has garnered her national attention and secured her the title of Southwestern Athletic Conference Volleyball Player of the Year, alongside a place on the All-SWAC First Team. “This is another huge accolade for Kylee, and I am so excited for her,” said Lady Panthers Head Coach Cheri Lindsay. “She definitely deserves all of these accolades that she has worked hard to get her here.”

Kylee is keeping her family’s athletic legacy going. The daughter of NFL Hall of Famer Terrell Owens, she follows in the footsteps of her father, who is celebrated as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. Terrell Owens was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018. He holds multiple records, including three seasons leading the league in touchdown receptions. 

Her brother, Terique Owens, also contributes to the Owen’s legacy. After playing college football at Missouri State University, he signed with the San Francisco 49ers as an undrafted free agent.

Kylee’s achievements reflect the bright future of women’s athletics at Prairie View A&M and the broader HBCU community, inspiring a new generation of talent to follow in her footsteps. 

This article sources information from Prairie View A&M University.

HBCU Professor Awarded Prestigious Fulbright International Educators Award

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Dr. Andre Stevenson, a distinguished professor of social work and director of international programs at Elizabeth City State University, has been awarded the prestigious Fulbright U.S. International Education Administrators Award.

Dr Andre Stevenson 1

This honor recognizes his commitment to fostering global collaboration and understanding. Later this year, Stevenson will travel to France and Senegal to deepen institutional partnerships and explore innovative strategies for international engagement.

With nearly 30 years of teaching and research experience, Stevenson has made notable contributions to social work education and public health. His academic journey has included a faculty appointment with the Foundation for Professional Development School of Business in Pretoria, South Africa, and involvement in Yale University’s School of Public Health Advanced Health Management Certificate program.

Throughout his career, he has mentored doctoral students from esteemed institutions such as New York University and the University of Pennsylvania. He has served as an external examiner for graduate research at the University of Cape Town and the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.

Stevenson’s upcoming Fulbright experience will allow him to build upon these international collaborations. “I hope to leverage this experience to continue to develop sustainable programs that support ECSU’s Office of International Programs in further developing a campus culture of global learning and academic excellence,” he said. 

Stevenson’s current role at ECSU has allowed him to champion intercultural learning initiatives that broaden students’ academic and cultural experiences. He believes these experiences have equipped him to foster ongoing collaborations abroad.

The Fullbright Scholar Family

As a newly appointed Fulbright Scholar, Stevenson joins an elite group of scholars who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and a commitment to global education. The Fulbright Program, known for promoting international educational exchanges since 1946, has produced numerous accolades, including Nobel Laureates and Pulitzer Prize winners among its alumni.

Stevenson encourages fellow educators to embrace opportunities for global engagement. “Be open to perspectives that challenge your own. Build authentic relationships across borders. Commit to further developing equitable partnerships within your academic disciplines and empower students and colleagues to see themselves as global citizen,” he urged.

The significance of Stevenson’s Fulbright appointment is not limited to his achievements. It underscores ECSU’s ongoing dedication to fostering a globally-minded academic community. In recent years, ECSU has seen over 50 of its students become Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship recipients as part of their efforts to expand international programming.

As he prepares for this incredible experience, Stevenson remains focused on building meaningful connections that enrich the educational landscape. 

This article sources information from Elizabeth City State University.

Rashida Jones Steps Down as President of MSNBC After Pioneering Tenure

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Rashida Jones

Rashida Jones, the first Black executive to lead a major U.S. television news network, announced her resignation as president of MSNBC, effective March 2025. For four years, she led the prominent channel through a turbulent yet triumphant era.

Jones announced the news during a meeting with top MSNBC anchors and staff on Tuesday morning. She expressed pride in her accomplishments and gratitude for her team. “This has been the most rewarding chapter of my professional career, and I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished, which has been made possible only by you,” she stated in an internal memo.

Leading The Way

Since taking the helm in February 2021 amid President Joe Biden’s inauguration and the Jan. 6 Capitol riots, Jones has successfully guided MSNBC through formidable challenges and capitalized on significant opportunities. She led the network to record ratings triumphs during critical political events and negotiated long-term contracts with star anchors, including Rachel Maddow.

As a testament to her impact, Jones initiated a live event series, relaunched the network’s mobile app and premium subscription service, and expanded investments in digital offerings. Under her leadership, MSNBC maintained its status as the second-most-watched cable news network, averaging 807,000 viewers daily and 1.3 million in prime-time hours despite a dip in post-election ratings.

The announcement follows Comcast’s decision to spin off several cable networks into a new publicly traded company called SpinCo. SpinCo will include MSNBC, CNBC, USA Network, Oxygen, E!, SYFY, and the Golf Channel. 

Rebecca Kutler, MSNBC’s senior vice president of content strategy, has been appointed interim president. Jones recruited Kutler,  who had previously worked at CNN for two decades, to join the network in 2022. 

A Hampton Graduate

Jones earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Media-Arts Broadcast from Hampton University, where she established a scholarship in her name. In 2019, she was inducted into the Hampton University Scripps Howard Journalism School Hall of Fame, recognizing her exceptional contributions to journalism. 

As Jones prepares to transition to an advisory role until March, her departure marks both an end and a beginning. It signals new leadership within MSNBC while reflecting her remarkable contributions to the network and the broader media landscape. 

This article sources information from NBC News.

Bennett College President Suzanne Walsh Steps Down

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Bennett College has announced that President Suzanne Elise Walsh, JD, will step down from her role effective June 30, 2025, following a transformative tenure marked by significant achievements and strategic advancements.

Appointed in 2019, Walsh has steered Bennett through an extraordinary period of change, helping the college shift from a critical to a stable status. Her tenure focused on optimizing resources and aligning the institution’s goals with its historic social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion mission. Under her leadership, Bennett College transitioned its accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools. ‘

“Working with an incredible community of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, and alumnae, we have improved the overall position of the College,” President Walsh stated in her resignation letter. “Bennett College is well-situated for its next chapter of growth and impact.”

Walsh’s Mark On Bennett

One of Walsh’s hallmark initiatives was redesigning the traditional 16-week college model into a minimester format to reduce students’ cognitive load. This innovative approach has significantly boosted student retention rates to over 85% for the past four years, exceeding the national average of 75.6% for full-time students.

North Carolina State Senator Gladys Robinson, who served as Board Chair during Walsh’s presidency, praised her visionary leadership. ” Suzanne emerged as a visionary leader who adeptly navigated the complexities of the academic landscape,” Robinson said. “She created a blueprint for transformational change that optimized the college, enhanced the student experience, and positioned us as leaders in social justice and mental health.”

Bennett College also gained recognition during Walsh’s leadership, being designated a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader for five consecutive years and ranking #1 in Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report in 2022-23. Additionally, the college was recognized as one of the nation’s “Best Women’s Colleges” by BestCollege.com in 2023.

As the board prepares for Walsh’s departure, it appoints an interim search firm to identify an interim president who will begin transitioning before July 1, 2025. A comprehensive national search for the next president will also be launched.

President Walsh’s departure marks the end of a pivotal chapter for Bennett College, and she leaves a legacy of resilience and innovation.

This article sources information from Bennett College.

HBCU Recognized For Its Commitment to Supporting First-Generation Students 

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Jackson State students

Jackson State University has proudly advanced to the FirstGen Forward Network Leader phase. JSU is now among a group of institutions recognized for its commitment to enhancing educational outcomes for first-generation students.

“Jackson State University is honored by this recognition, which underscores our unwavering commitment to supporting first-generation students through intentional, student-centered initiatives that foster academic success, retention, and career readiness,” said Mitchell M. Shears, Ed.D., associate vice president for student success. “As an HBCU, we take immense pride in creating pathways that empower our students to thrive both in college and beyond. We look forward to continuing this vital work alongside FirstGen Forward and its partner institutions to ensure all first-generation students have the tools and opportunities to achieve their full potential.”

Phase Two of Three

The FirstGen Forward Network was established by the Center for First-generation Student Success. It utilizes a three-phase approach focused on collaboration, resource sharing, and peer networking to improve outcomes for first-generation students. New institutions begin in the Network Member phase before progressing to Network Leader and the final phase, Network Champion. As a newly recognized Network Leader, JSU plans to leverage specialized tools and strategies to enhance its support systems and share best practices throughout the higher education community.

According to Maurice A. Jones, CEO of FirstGen Forward, “Six years after starting college, only 24% of first-generation students earn a bachelor’s degree, compared to 59% of their continuing-generation peers.” He emphasized that through their role as Network Leaders, institutions like JSU are poised to adopt tailored strategies that transform their infrastructure to close this achievement gap, ultimately improving enrollment, retention, and overall success for first-generation students.

JSU’s transition to the Network Leader phase highlights its enduring mission to serve as a beacon of opportunity for underrepresented students. In this new capacity, JSU will gain access to diagnostic tools, customized solutions, robust data reporting, and expert guidance, further enhancing its ability to support first-generation students.

HBCU Picked for $1.5 Million Grant to Enhance Workforce Development

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Drake State

Drake State Community and Technical College has been awarded a substantial grant of $1,514,520 from the U.S. Department of Labor’s recent Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants. This funding marks a significant achievement for the institution and establishes Drake State as the first college in Alabama to receive such support.

The grant is part of a broader initiative involving a $65 million investment distributed among 18 colleges across 14 states. The initiative aims to enhance affordable, high-quality workforce training programs in vital industry sectors, including advanced manufacturing. Drake State plans to use this financial boost to support its new Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education program. The program aims to cultivate a robust pipeline of skilled maintenance technicians that manufacturers in the Huntsville area need.

How The Grant Will Boost FAME

Dr. Patricia Sims, president of Drake State, expressed her enthusiasm for the grant. “This grant underscores Drake State’s leadership in delivering cutting-edge training programs that transform lives and strengthen the North Alabama region,” she said. “With this funding, we will expand our impact, preparing more students for rewarding careers while supporting the workforce demands of our industry partners.”

The FAME program, specifically tailored for the Huntsville Tech chapter, seeks to empower students with the necessary skills to excel in high-demand sectors. In doing so, it also aims to satisfy the increasing workforce needs of local industries, a crucial effort in a region noted for its burgeoning manufacturing ecosystem.

The Strengthening Community Colleges initiative aims to equip institutions like Drake State with the resources to enhance career pathway programs and promote equitable outcomes for underrepresented populations. The Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration administers this grant. 

Acting U.S. Secretary of Labor Julie Su underscored the significance of these programs, stating, “The Biden-Harris administration is investing in training programs that end in a job, rather than a job search. Our Strengthening Community Colleges grantees run programs that help lift whole communities by equipping workers with the skills they need right now while strengthening workforce infrastructure.”

Since its inception, the Strengthening Community Colleges initiative has made notable strides. It has invested $265 million in 207 colleges in 35 states to address pressing workforce priorities within communities nationwide. 

This article sources information from Drake State Community & Technical Colleg.

Sole HBCU Scholar Shines in Italian Study Abroad Initiative

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Calandrea Carter

As the new year unfolds, Alabama State University junior Calandrea Carter is seizing an extraordinary opportunity to broaden her horizons through a study-abroad program in Italy, made possible by a national fellowship from the American Institute for Foreign Study. With financial support from The ASU Foundation, Carter’s journey began on Jan. 1 and will continue until Jan. 18.

Majoring in journalism, Carter is delving into Italy’s rich cultural and educational tapestry. She has already explored diverse regions, including the historic city of Florence, and is scheduled to visit Milan soon. Her experience marks her as the sole representative from a Historically Black College or University participating in this particular program.

“I am so grateful to Alabama State University for supporting my study-abroad journey with the American Institute for Foreign Study,” Carter stated. “This opportunity highlights the importance of cultural competence, global knowledge, and social literacy for students like me, and I’m honored to represent Alabama State University on an international platform such as this one.”

Carter’s time in Florence has allowed her to immerse herself in its renowned culture, indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, tour historical landmarks, and gain new perspectives on the ancient European city. 

In reflecting on her fellowship selection, Carter credits her alma mater for providing an exceptional education that laid the foundation for her success. She also appreciates the unwavering support from her parents, Cleve and Aimee Carter.

“Thank you, Alabama State University, for enhancing my education globally and for empowering students like me to rise above limitations and make an impact worldwide,” she remarked from Italy. “Here’s to bringing this experience back to inspire others on campus and to continuing to break barriers. Alabama State University is definitely where history is made.”

This article sources information from Alabama State University.

HBCU Alumna to Share Insights on the First-Gen Experience

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Minisee3

Alabama A&M University is excited to announce the launch of its Spring 2025 First-Gen Fridays series, which aims to empower and support first-generation college students. The series will commence on Friday, Jan. 24, at 3 p.m., in Buchanan Hall Auditorium with an impactful session titled “Overcoming Imposter Syndrome,” led by esteemed first-generation alumna Shamika Minisee.

Minisee, a 2004 graduate in business administration from St. Louis, has transformed her experience as a first-generation college student into a successful entrepreneurial journey. She embodies resilience and determination as the CEO and co-founder of Presidential Concrete LLC and the Minisee Group Consulting Firm, based in Huntsville, Alabama. During her presentation, Minisee will share personal experiences and practical strategies to help students confront self-doubt and embrace their potential.

The First-Gen Fridays initiative fosters a sense of belonging among first-generation students at AAMU, promoting engagement, retention, and academic success. These monthly sessions offer students a unique opportunity to connect with peers and first-generation faculty and staff while accessing resources, programs, and services tailored to their needs.

“Everyone, especially first-generation students, occasionally feels out of their depth,” said Dr. Pamela Little, executive director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs. “When exploring unfamiliar areas, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. For some, this feeling persists and causes them to question their abilities, skills, and accomplishments – a phenomenon known as Imposter Syndrome. This challenge is particularly common among individuals from underrepresented and minority groups, and addressing it is key to unlocking their potential.”

Dr. Little encourages all first-generation students to participate in this inaugural session, emphasizing the importance of connecting with a community with similar experiences and challenges. The Spring 2025 series will feature additional sessions on critical topics such as “Landing an Internship,” “Financial Literacy,” and “Post-Graduation Planning.” 

This article sources information from Alabama A&M.

HBCU to Open Academic Success Center to Boost Student Achievement

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

North Carolina Central University is poised to celebrate a significant milestone with the grand opening of the Academic Success Center. This innovative facility aims to enhance student learning and achievement. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 21, from 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. in Room 128 of the Farrison-Newton Communications Building, 501 E. Lawson St.

NCCU’s creation of the ASC reflects its commitment to promoting student retention and success. Teah Smith, director of tutoring and supplemental instruction, emphasized the center’s dual purpose: “The ASC is designed not only to help students master course content but also to build self-efficacy by teaching essential study skills and strategies. Our goal is to empower students to take ownership of their learning and to see academic support as a proactive step toward success.”

ASC Features

The ASC builds on the university’s existing tutoring services, introducing several innovative features tailored to meet various academic needs. These include collaborative study spaces for group work, exam preparation, and peer collaboration, promoting active student engagement. Peer tutoring will offer personalized subject-specific support to help students excel in their courses. A Language Learning Lab equipped with personalized tutoring and technology will assist students in learning new languages and improving their proficiency. 

Finally, biweekly sessions during the 10:40 a.m. break, the TSI Tools Tuesday and Thursday Workshops will tackle common academic challenges, such as time management and study strategies. The inaugural workshops, which will focus on building effective study habits and improving time management skills, are scheduled for Feb. 4 and Feb. 6.

Benefitting Faculty & Staff

In addition to benefiting students, the ASC also aims to engage faculty and staff by offering resources and training to enhance teaching practices that improve overall student outcomes. 

“We want students, faculty, and staff to see the Academic Success Center as a place of growth and connection,” Smith stated. “By working together, we can create an environment that promotes lifelong learning and continuous improvement.”

The ASC will operate Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This article sources information from North Carolina Central University.

HBCU President Steps Down from National HBCU Board

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Tony Allen

Tony Allen, the president of Delaware State University, will step down as chairman emeritus and board member of the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities on Jan. 20. President Joe Biden appointed Allen to the role in 2021. Since then, he has been pivotal in shaping policies and initiatives that bolster the nation’s HBCUs.

The President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs operates under the White House Initiative on HBCUs and was established by the Carter Administration in 1980. This initiative aims to provide HBCUs with the necessary resources to deliver quality education and competitive opportunities to underrepresented student populations. Under the Biden-Harris administration, federal investments in HBCUs have reached an unprecedented $20 billion.

Reflecting on his tenure, Allen expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve. “It has been my high honor to serve in this role and to do so under the Biden Administration,” he said. He noted the significance of his colleagues’ voting him Chairman Emeritus and emphasized their collective efforts to enhance the educational landscape for minority students nationwide.

HBCUs have long been engines of opportunity, producing a substantial percentage of professionals in critical fields, including engineering, education, and medicine. These institutions contribute to the professional workforce and stimulate significant economic impacts. According to a recent report from the United Negro College Fund, HBCUs generate approximately $16.5 billion in direct economic impact across the nation, supporting over 136,000 jobs.

A Lasting Impact

Enrollment in HBCUs has notably increased, rising by 7% between 2020 and 2023, highlighting their growing importance in higher education. Looking ahead, Allen believes the Biden-Harris administration’s impact on HBCUs will be felt in the years to come.

In his farewell remarks, Allen acknowledged the enduring influence of the board’s decisions on future generations. “Your decisions will have an impact on generations of students who attend HBCUs, the faculty and staff who pour their whole hearts into providing HBCU education, and their families who sacrifice so much in favor of boundless futures for their children,” he said. 

As Allen transitions from his role, the legacy of his leadership and continued support for HBCUs remain paramount in shaping an equitable educational future for all students. 

This article sources information from The Philadelphia Tribune.

HBCU Professor’s Book Initiative Tackles Child Literacy and Hair Bullying

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Dr. Linda J.M. Holloway

Dr. Linda J.M. Holloway, a passionate educator and advocate for children’s welfare, has embarked on a mission to address two alarming issues facing young students: low literacy rates and the epidemic of hair bullying, particularly among Black children. When she discovered that one in three children were not reading at grade level and learned of the emotional distress caused by taunts about their hair, she felt compelled to take action.

In response, Dr. Holloway, an Alabama State University counselor educator, launched the “1,000 Free Books Giveaway” campaign three years ago to provide books to children in marginalized communities. Starting locally in Alabama, her initiative has expanded significantly, yielding over 2,500 free books distributed to children in need. 

I Love My Happy Hair

Her first book, “I Love My Happy Hair,” is central to her campaign, which addresses hair bullying while promoting a positive self-image. The story follows a little girl named Little Miss Linda who grapples with her feelings about her hair until her mother teaches her to appreciate its uniqueness. Through the enchanting tale, Little Miss Linda inspires other children to celebrate their hair and reject the negativity associated with hair bullying. Her journey is complemented by the uplifting “Happy Hair Song” and an anti-air bully pledge.

Dr. Holloway’s impact has even reached South Africa, where her books have helped educators establish libraries, ensuring that children no longer need to travel long distances to access literature.

With over 30 years in academia, Dr. Holloway is more than an educator. She is a story activist dedicated to using the power of storytelling to uplift and empower children. She has been featured across various media platforms, including The Roland Martin Show and The Grio, and has received multiple accolades for her contributions to education and social justice.

For those interested in following Dr. Holloway’s impactful work, her YouTube channel showcases her efforts and provides additional resources for families seeking to support their children’s literacy journey.

This story was first reported on Blacknews.com

Bobby Wagner: NFL Star and Howard University MBA Student

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Bobby Wagner

Bobby Wagner, the standout linebacker for the Washington Commanders and a six-time NFL All-Pro, is expanding his horizons beyond the football field through an ambitious educational pursuit. At 34, Wagner is enrolled in Howard University’s Master of Business Administration.

Having commenced the 18-month program in January 2023, Wagner views this academic journey as a vital preparation for life after football. His decision to study at Howard was influenced by its esteemed reputation and strong ties to the HBCU tradition. “I just looked at Howard as a great school to learn business from. It’s one of the best in the country, and why wouldn’t I choose them?” Wagner stated during a press conference.

Wagner’s move to Washington marked a significant chapter in his career, reuniting him with head coach Dan Quinn and linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr., who he had previously worked with during his tenure with the Seattle Seahawks. While his one-year contract with the Commanders could amount to $8.5 million, it’s clear that Wagner’s motivations extend beyond financial gain. He appreciates the parallel between perfecting his football skills and his desire for continuous personal growth through education. “Similarly, with football, you always want to try to find ways to perfect your craft, so I felt like this was an opportunity for me to do that off the field,” he added.

Initially expecting the MBA coursework to be conducted entirely online, Wagner is adjusting to a curriculum that may require more in-person attendance, balancing the demands of professional football with academic commitments.

Wagner’s commitment to education and community impact has garnered recognition, including a nomination for the NFL’s 2024 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, which honors players’ contributions on and off the field.

This story originally appeared on HBCU Gameday.

Delta Sigma Theta’s Farwest Region Rallies for Wildfire Relief in Los Angeles

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

The Farwest Region of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. answered the call for community action. On Jan. 11, 2025, the chapter hosted a support event to aid individuals and families devastated by the recent wildfires in Southern California. The gathering took place at Zion Hill Baptist Church from noon to 4 p.m. Alongside Delta Sigma Theta sorority members, local volunteers, Divine Nine fraternities and sororities, and concerned community members came together to help those in need. 

The event served as a lifeline for wildfire survivors, offering free meals, essential supplies, including clothing and hygiene products, and access to relief funds to address urgent personal expenses. 

Devastating Damage

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has responded to 22,648 emergencies concerning the 135 wildfires that have burned approximately 40,644 acres amidst the ongoing wildfire crisis in Greater Los Angeles. Tragically, the fires have resulted in 24 fatalities, pending coroner confirmation, and more than 12,300 structures have been destroyed. Damage assessments are currently underway for the Palisades and Eaton Fires. 

“This is just the beginning of our commitment to helping those impacted rebuild and recover for the long term,” said Kimberly M. Usher, farwest regional director of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her remarks underscore the organization’s focus on both immediate help and sustainable recovery efforts.

Helping In The Aftermath

In addition to distributing immediate support during the event, the Farwest Region has launched a sustained donation campaign. This initiative seeks contributions to provide ongoing assistance, ensuring that critical resources and financial aid continue to flow to families navigating the challenging aftermath of the wildfires.

As the impact of the wildfires continues to affect countless families, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. remains committed to alleviating their burdens. Donations are still being accepted to bolster recovery initiatives, allowing the organization to ensure vital resources reach those who need them most.

For those looking to contribute, monetary and in-kind donations can be made here. 

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.’s swift and organized approach to disaster response reminds us of the critical role that community organizations play in promoting recovery and support after adversity. 

This story originally appeared on Watch The Yard.

HBCU Advances Infrastructure Projects Amid Enrollment Surge

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

South Carolina State University is making significant strides to address its housing crisis with the nearing completion of three remodeled buildings in the Queens Village student apartment complex. This project marks the beginning of broader initiatives to accommodate the university’s unprecedented enrollment growth.

A Renovated Queens Village

Queens Village Interior 2

“Reopening Queens Village is just the first of many developments underway at SC State to allow us to house more students and keep up with the university’s phenomenal enrollment growth,” SC State President Alexander Conyers stated. “Interest in the excellence SC State has to offer is at an all-time high, so we must respond to the demand with additional housing.”

The current renovations include roof updates, utility infrastructure, and interior finishes. Four two-bedroom suites, each accommodating eight students, are increasing the housing capacity of these units by 24 beds. Students have been provided temporary accommodations until the units are ready for occupancy.

In addition to the Queens Village remodel SC State is advancing two other housing projects.

New 500-Bed Residence Hall

The university has received initial approval to build a 500-bed residence hall. Financing will come through the federal HBCU Capital Financing Program, which offers low-cost capital to enhance HBCU infrastructure. Administrators expect to begin interviews for design services at the end of January, with plans to construct the facility next to Mitchell Hall, aiming for completion by 2026.

Sojourner Truth Hall Renovation

Funded by the State of South Carolina, the $15 million renovation of the 14-story Truth Hall is scheduled to kick off in May. The lower floors will remain open during the Spring 2025 Semester to preserve necessary bed space. Renovations will include adding a fire suppression system, allowing the reopening of upper floors for additional residential space by Spring 2026.

The Queens Village initiative and these additional projects form a more significant investment exceeding $200 million for SC State, reflecting state and federal support for the university’s infrastructure improvements. Conyers expressed gratitude for this backing, emphasizing the transformative nature of these developments. “To say this is a transformational period in SC State history is an understatement. Our students deserve the same level of amenities they see at other institutions, and our lawmakers have made great strides in bringing that vision to reality,” he said.

… And More

Student Center 1
The new facade at SC State’s Kirkland W. Green Student Center is taking shape.
Academic Building Site
SC State’s new academic building will sit along Geathers Street adjacent to the Student Center Plaza. Two small buildings on the site will be razed.

Alongside housing enhancements, SC State is also undertaking exciting academic and student service projects. These include renovating the Kirkland W. Green Student Center and constructing a new 94,000-square-foot academic building and university library. State funding is also fueling the development of a new health and wellness center, with a planned footprint of 45,000 square feet, and the James E. Clyburn Transportation Center.

With an extensive list of renovations and new constructions in the pipeline, SC State University is clearly committed to providing its students with modern facilities that meet their needs and uphold a vibrant campus life. 

This article sources information from SC State University. 

HBCU to Host Empowering Teach-In Ahead of Inauguration

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

As students, faculty, and community members prepare for a new academic semester, the University of the District of Columbia is set to host an impactful event focused on mindfulness, learning, and empowerment. The Pre-Inauguration Community Gathering & Teach-In is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 16, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom.

The University of the District of Columbia
Courtesy of the University of the District of Columbia/LinkedIn

Mindfulness, Grounding, and Good Vibes

The event seeks to create a space for reflection and connection in light of the ongoing political climate. It will begin with a “Mindfulness, Grounding, and Good Vibes” session from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Michelle Chatman, founding director of the Crime, Justice & Security Studies Program Mindful & Courageous Action Lab, will lead this session. It will equip attendees with tools to manage anxiety and promote emotional well-being. 

Chatman expressed the importance of addressing the challenges UDC’s diverse student body faces. “There is a lot of anxiety about what this new political climate means for higher education, especially here in Washington, D.C.,” she said. “We want to provide a space where people can come together, acknowledge their concerns, and support their emotional health and well-being.”

D.C. History and the Quest for Democracy

Following the grounding session, participants will engage in a teach-in titled “D.C. History and the Quest for Democracy” from 4 p.m. to 5:20 p.m. Amanda Huron of UDC’s Political Science Program and DC History Lab will serve as moderator. The panel will feature experts who will delve into Washington, D.C.’s unique political struggles and the fight for representation. 

Panelists will include George Derek Musgrove, associate professor of history at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County; Kelsye Adams, executive director of Long Live GoGo and director at DC Vote; and Ankit Jain, D.C. Shadow Senator. Huron emphasized that the panel is about providing expert insights and fostering meaningful discussions among attendees. 

“This panel offers a way for us to learn from history, understand where we are now, and think about how we can act as we move forward,” Huron said. After the discussion, participants will break into small groups to explore ways to engage with issues around democracy and representation.

Connecting, Celebrating and Taking Action

The event will culminate with a “Connecting, Celebrating and Taking Action” session from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring music, food, and open conversation to empower attendees as they transition into the new semester. 

Adams will highlight the importance of civic engagement and encourage attendees to understand the implications of D.C.’s governance structure. She stated, “We’re working toward D.C. statehood because that is the only way we truly address the systemic disenfranchisement that District residents face.”

As the UDC community comes together for this gathering, the hope is for participants to feel more informed and empowered to make a difference, even amidst uncertainty. “This is a time for the UDC community to come together, reflect on our history, and think about how we can make a difference,” Chatman concluded. 

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