Hype At Howard University: Photographer Creates Mental Health Arts Exhibit

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For some Howard students, photography can be seen as a form of therapy. Meet Jonne’ Sampson, a junior at Howard University majoring in photography.

“I’m easily one of the best photographers in my generation,” Sampson told HBCU Buzz, boasting about herself. “I have dedicated a majority of my life to learning the arts and technique of photography.”

“I had several traumatic events that sent me into a deep depression last year. I tried to talk to some of my family about it, but my cry for help was being mistaken for depreciation and complaining,” Sampson said.

“I was born an artist, I started off painting on kitchen walls.”

She continued, “I don’t hype myself up often, but… I have dedicated a majority of my life to learning the art and technique of photography. I took that knowledge and used it to shoot for several major companies such as Rush Card, National Education Association, and Top Dawg Entertainment to name a few.”

Check out our Q&A below.

What made you decide create this showcase? “I had several traumatic events that sent me into a deep depression last year. I tried to talk to some of my family about it, but my cry for help was being mistaken for depreciation and complaining. I did not leave my room for nearly three months. I woke up every day questioning God, why me? Why were all odds against me? After having long talks with my some of my closest friends, they reminded me why God keeps sparing my life, I have a purpose. We all have a purpose and I want everyone to know that. I do not want anyone to feel the emptiness I felt. I want to provide the community with a safe space to talk to others who have been through the same thing so they can understand they have all the support in the world.”

How long have u been an artist? “I was born an artist.”

What new art related talent are you learning? “I’m taking up the art of Media Production with Dr. Kendrick. Best class decision I’ve made, be on the look out for some dope visuals. #TaughtByKendrick.”

What’s your favorite part about what you do? “My favorite part of my job is seeing my subject excited with the product. It’s nice to see someone else enjoy my work.”

Outside of art and photography, what are your interests? “I love going to see spoken word. I’m not that good with words, so I love to see other people who are.”

Who would be your dream collaboration? “If I could work with someone it would be André 3000, Kanye, and 50 cent.”

If I go on google in 10 years & search Jonné, what will pop up? “World Renown Photographer and Owner of F/8TE Productions just won another Pulitzer prize breaking the world record.”

“I’m working on a new photo series for my show depicting how I felt during my period of depression. It does not have a name yet,” Sampson said.

21 Reasons Why The African Digital Innovation Can Definitely Build Dopeness

Posted by William Jackson
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The recent WordCamp Nairobi and other tech venues that are hosting technology conferences, workshops, meetups and supporting entrepreneurs are growing in Africa. Tech is becoming common place. Being dope on Social Media is not a cultural thing, it is the ability to be comfortable in your digital skin as a content creator, digital creator, innovator, graphic artist or even a dope web developer.

Everyone has a dope side to them, it just takes time to discover it and importantly apply that dopeness to a positive online experience. It means that it is OK to have fun on the web and to integrate yourself into your product or service even on a digital level. Too many people lose the excitement of creating content that will be read, viewed, studied, listened to and watched. Audiences change as access and platforms change, so why not be Dope and Lit, providing something that brings people to you and influence community activist and activism?

SEO even in Africa – Search Engine Optimization is not always the ticket, WOM or Word of Mouth is still important and should always be a viable strategy to build followers. Search Engine Optimization is tech based, but technology cannot always bring readers. Building relationships and collaborations are the keys. Africans are expanding their presence and their ability to create dynamic digital content.

As a parent, educator, blogger, mentor, community activist and STEAM Advocate and proud sponsor for WordCamp Nairobi, Kenya here are 21 reasons African digital innovation can build Dopeness

1. To attract diverse readers and viewers. Being diversified in your audience is a plus because people connect with what they like, how it relates to their needs and relevance.

2. Most viewers will be women and they love dope content. Try not to be boring or repetitive.

3. If you want a broad spectrum of followers dope up your blog with relevant content and graphics that match your audience. Diversity is Dope

4. International markets look to promote Dope and Lit content. They always look for awesome people.

5. If you’re looking to monetize your site and content expand your dopeness to new markets that embraces diversity and engagement.

6. Hire dope speakers like myself to talk on your Podcasts. If you’re having a workshop or conference be very selective because content has to be dope and exciting.

7. Take plenty of dope photos and videos with dope and lit people. Use your Instagram and Twitter sites to share and expand your reach.

8. Speak at WordCamps, BarCamps, EdCamps and other tech conferences.

9. Always have your business cards available, make sure there is a dope photo of yourself and have your “elevator
pitch” ready.

10. Hire a dope graphic artist to create your dope logo.

11. Be a sponsor and promoter of community events like WordCamp as you grow.

12. Join the Chamber of Commerce and other dope organizations that are invested in the community and city.

13. Be a speaker on talk shows to share your knowledge.

14. Start your own Podcast with guests and be fancy with your title.

15. See where you can help your church or ministry with their connectivity.

16. Take a Social Media class yourself.

17. Offer Social Media classes with certificates when completed.

18. Keep your profiles current, relevant and oozzing with dopeness.

19. Take a dope vacation from time to time to encourage inspiration locally, nationally and internationally.

20. Embrace diversity in your vision and expression.

21. Network – Network – Network

Posted by William Jackson Posted on 40 articles

Florida Memorial University Trustees Announce New Leadership

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Acting President Appointed

(Black PR Wire) Miami – The Board of Trustees of Florida Memorial University (FMU) has announced that a new leadership role will be created. Dr. Castell Vaughn Bryant has been appointed Acting President of FMU, effective Monday, November 20th. The appointment is necessitated by the unfortunate medical leave of Dr. Michelle Howard-Vital, the University’s interim president.

“Florida Memorial University is committed to empowering our students to succeed with exceptional excellence,” said JoLinda L. Herring, Esq., chairman of the board of trustees. “Dr. Bryant brings both the qualifications and experience needed to strengthen this process. Her love for the students, coupled with her extensive knowledge and awareness of our community and the HBCU environment, are but a few of her stellar attributes. We are certain that her leadership will provide the stability and focus required as we continue our search efforts for a permanent president.” Image result for Dr. Castell Vaughn Bryant

Dr. Castell Bryant is no stranger to the South Florida community or to the leadership role for a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). In South Florida, she has served as the Campus President at Miami-Dade College’s North and Medical Campuses; and was FMU’s Interim Chief Executive Officer. She has also served as Interim President at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU); and as Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs at Bethune Cookman University.

Bryant is an academic leader who embraces a philosophy in her own words to “keep students at the center of the decision-making process.” She has devoted her life to education, and has served in that capacity in the state of Florida for more than 30 years. She began her educational journey at FAMU where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.  She was awarded the Doctorate degree from Nova Southeastern University. She also attended the Graduate School of Education at Harvard University. Her extensive professional organizations include her role as a Member of the Florida Board of Governors for the State’s University System; Vice President of the National Council of Black American Affairs; Chair of the Governor’s Taskforce-Equity in Educational Opportunity (K-12); and the Florida Council for Assessment College-level Test (ACT), to name a few.  She is a champion for the students and is recognized for this effort nationwide.

Located in the City of Miami Gardens, Florida Memorial University is a private, historically Black institution offering 41 undergraduate degree programs and four master’s programs to a culturally diverse student body. Since its inception in 1879, the University has upheld a commitment to providing a solid foundation for thousands of young people and opening doors to educational opportunities that may have otherwise been closed to them. As South Florida’s only Historically Black College or University (HBCU), it is widely recognized for being the birthplace of the Negro National Anthem, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” and the home of Barrington Irving, Jr., the first and youngest pilot of African descent to fly solo around the world.

For more information on FMU, contact the Vice President of University Advancement, Marcus Burgess, at 305-626-3600.

 

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Hampton University Joins the Big South Conference, Leaving MEAC

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In a move that could cause a cultural shift and change the balance of power in HBCU athletics, Hampton University on Thursday announced that it is leaving the MEAC to join the Big South Conference.

According to a stateImage result for hampton university sportment released by Hampton University President Dr. William R. Harvey, Hampton sought a more proximity-friendly conference.

“Our student-athletes will spend less time traveling and more time in classes on campus,” Harvey said. “This keeps the proper focus on academics, which is our chief reason for being. The smaller geographic footprint will also reduce travel expenses.”

Most of the MEAC schools are located in North Carolina, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and Washington — with two in faraway Florida (Florida A&M and Bethune-Cookman). However, the entire Big South Conference for most sports is based in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, obviously much more geographically friendly for Hampton, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.

Hampton, which was a member of the MEAC for 22 years, officially will join the Big South on July 1, 2018. Sixteen of the 17 Hampton sports will be played in the Big South Conference, with men’s lacrosse the only exception. read more 

 

Bowie State Graduate Breaks Barriers on This Years’ Season of NBC’s “The Voice”

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As a breakout star on this year’s season of NBC’s “The Voice,” Stephan blazed a trail being the first Guyanese American on the show. From his unprecedented blind audition and the first male contestant to be stolen from Jennifer Hudson’s team by all-female team leader, Miley Cyrus– Stephan knows how to make waves. The tenacity, texture, and tone of Stephan’s voice calls to the free-thinkers, dreamers, and trailblazers. Partnered with his desire to inspire and uplift the spirits of anyone who hears his music, Stephan continues to rise and be the dynamic force missing in mainstream music.

At an early age Stephan found solace in songwriting and continues to focus on lyrical content as he grows as an artist.  His soul-bearing ballad, “Pupperteer”, exclusively released through AfroPunk, solidified his storytelling ability gaining a slot as a semi-finalist in ASCAP’s International Songwriting Competition. Stephan’s genuine spirit and dynamic voice has allowed him to perform on numerous stages from New York to Washington, DC including performing for activist Minister Louis Farrakhan and attending a Master Classes with Neo-soul sensation Ledisi.

Stephan takes pride in his Guyanese roots, growing up in Englewood, NJ surrounded by the love and support of his parents and younger brother. The essence of Stephan rests in his spirituality, which stems from his Guyanese roots and is the foundation of his artistry. As a graduate of Bowie State University in 2012, Stephan uses his background in Child and Adolescent Studies to mentor and motivate youth towards emotional maturity and creative endeavors.

Stephan Marcellus believes that the most vulnerable place produces the purest sound. Stephan grew to understand that true artistry transcends all barriers; that music is born when you commit to becoming your most authentic self. Stephan’s sound, artfully coined alternative soul, is a blend between rock, folk and soul music. His eclectic style paired with his message of freedom and authority transcends all barriers allows him to move freely through all genres of music.

Follow the movement on social media and stay tuned for the release of his single, “Renegade” in November 2017 and his upcoming EP set to drop in the New Year.

Social Media Handles:

Instagram: @stephanmarcellusmusic

Twitter: Steph_Marcellus

Youtube: Stephan Marcellus

Facebook Fan-Page: StephanMarcellusMusic

For more information, please visit: www.stephanmarcellusmusic.com

 

You Said She Styled Beyoncé? : CAU Alumna + ‘Tampax and Always Radiant Collection’ Will Gift HBCU Majorettes $25k & Custom Costumes

Posted by Brittany Ireland
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Sponsored by the HBCU Dance Corporation, Inc.

Forget the fields; HBCUs win in the stands every single game. The ladies of the dance line are the soul of the occasion and their moves are literally the heartbeat of the game. Their flawlessness and flexibility isn’t achieved overnight and by no means, is supported by anything less than the best. We are referring to the ever-absorbent, discreet Tampax and Always Radiant Collection that empowers women to live confidently and move leak-free.

Did you know that four in five African American women ages 18-35 say they avoid wearing certain clothes during their period, fearing the possibility of leaks. Half of African American women say they wear pads for period protection and half also say they bring a jacket or sweater during their period when they go out to meet friends or on a date. 25% of African American women say they avoid dancing while on their period.

Sponsored by the HBCU Dance Corporation, Inc., the Tampax and Always Radiant Collection seeks to empower women to wear whatever they want, even on their period. Beginning November, they have teamed up to host the #RadiantDanceOff , a national online dance competition exclusively for majorette teams at HBCUs. The competition allows teams to showcase their moves and emphasize one of the Tampax and Always Radiant Collection’s messages: confidence is the key to feeling radiant any day of the month.

The winning majorette team will be awarded with new costumes designed by Brea Stinson, a Clark Atlanta University alumna and exclusive celebrity costume and fashion designer. Stinson is responsible for innovating styles and she has even styled the costume queen herself, Beyonce. She says, “During that time of the month it can be challenging to feel like your best self, which is why I am so excited to partner with the Tampax and Always Radiant Collection to inspire dancers to feel and look confident during their periods no matter what they wear.” The winning team will also receive $25,000.00!

Week after week, videos of black girl magic, femininity, poise, and pure slay have flooded the timelines of Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, displaying each team’s best moves and the team and individual confidence of dozens of young African American women.

As the competition comes to an end, we excite to see which team is the selected as the premier representation of confidence and radiance.

We will announce the winners once selected. Stay tuned.

Meet Aaron Walton, New President of Cheyney University

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Aaron A. Walton has been named the president of Cheyney University by The Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education  after a vote late Monday.

According to PhillyTrib –  Walton, who has been serving as interim president of the historically Black institution outside of Philadelphia since May, will serve as president through June 30, 2021.

“Mr. Walton has clearly demonstrated that he can in fact make meaningful changes that will move the university forward,” said Cheyney University Council of Trustees Chair Robert Bogle.

Bogle, who is also the president and CEO of The Tribune, said a presidential search had begun, but was later halted. The Council of Trustees met with administrators, faculty, alumni and students during a meeting held on Cheyney’s campus Nov. 2, at which time they were notified that Walton was being considered as the college’s next president.

The move comes as the Middle States Commission on Higher Education will vote on Thursday regarding the accreditation status of the 180-year-old institution. Middle States was concerned about Cheyney’s finances, majors and permanent leadership positions.

Heres the University  information about Walton  // Aaron A. Walton, a demonstrated results-driven leader with 40 years of experience in corporate level management, is Cheyney University of Pennsylvania’s new Interim President, selected by the Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. The retired Senior Vice President of Highmark, Inc., a leading healthcare provider, was one of nine principle officers responsible for providing overall management and direction of all corporate activities.

During his tenure at Highmark, Walton established and implemented a number of strategic healthcare initiatives that yielded community and company-wide growth and advancement, including an award winning program that was one of the first programs in America to address childhood obesity and bullying.

While Vice-President at Highmark and following retirement, He served as Vice Chair of the PA State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) Board of Governors, where he was also Chair of Academic and Student Affairs, and Chair of Human Resources. Walton was also a longtime member of California University of Pennsylvania’s Council of Trustees, and chair from 1999 to 2003.

Most recently, Walton was co-chair of the Board of Governors appointed Cheyney Task Force, which constructed and approved, a “conceptual framework” for a new business model for Cheyney, which includes the creation of an “Institute for the Contemporary African-American Experience” within the university.

Walton brings to Cheyney his expertise in strategic planning and intends to address the university’s challenges head-on, while leading the efforts to develop a final version of the Task Force model. Read more. 

Tampax and Always Radiant Collection Partner with Brea Stinson to Empower HBCU Majorettes

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CINCINNATI – October 3, 2017 – From stand battles to the tailgate stadium scene, The Radiant Collection, from Procter & Gamble’s (P&G) leading feminine protection brands Tampax® and Always®, is on a fashion-forward mission to keep collegiate women feeling confident in their period protection. Four in five African American women (ages 18-35) avoid wearing certain types of clothes during their periods for fear of leaks. The Tampax and Always Radiant Collection is period protection that can keep fashion fierce and collegiate women confident all month long.

In an effort to empower collegiate women across the country to wear what they want, even when they have their period, The Radiant Collection and HBCU Dance Corporation, Inc. have teamed up to host the #RadiantDanceOff. #RadiantDanceOff is a national, online dance competition sponsored by HBCU Dance exclusively for majorette teams at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). It was created to give majorettes the chance to show off their moves and demonstrate how confidence is the key to feeling radiant any day of the month.

The winning majorette team will receive new costumes designed by Brea Stinson, a Clark Atlanta University alumna and highly sought-after celebrity costume and fashion designer. Stinson has collaborated with the industry’s top creative directors and wardrobe stylists, creating iconic looks for some of the hottest artists. The school of the winning team will also receive $25,000 to benefit the dance team.

“Working with some of the biggest entertainers in the world, I know how important it is to have high-performance dance gear that is both stylish and functional, something HBCU majorettes can relate to,” says celebrity costume designer, Brea Stinson. “During that time of the month, it can be challenging to feel like your best self, which is why I’m so excited to partner with the Tampax and Always Radiant Collection to inspire HBCU dancers to feel and look confident during their periods no matter what they wear.”

HBCU Dance Corporation Inc.’s #RadiantDanceOff contest will bring the iconic halftime shows from the field to fans’ fingertips, providing HBCU majorette teams with the chance to face off and see who really runs the yard! From now until October 23, HBCU dance teams can submit their best performances on www.RadiantDanceOff.com. Alumni and fans can get in on the action from November 2 to November 15, by visiting the site to cast their vote for their favorite of majorettes. The top five videos with the highest number of votes will be judged to determine the winner. To boost your team’s chances of making it into a top spot, use the hashtag #RadiantDanceOffContest on social media and encourage your network to go to www.RadiantDanceOff.com to vote.

This homecoming season The Radiant Collection will also be on the yard at Howard University from October 20-21, to encourage women to confidently wear what they want homecoming weekend and beyond. On both days, attendees can stop by The Radiant Experience at YardFest and at the Tailgate to receive a style consultation from a top fashion influencer, take selfies in front of the Radiant photo wall, and receive swag items, all while rocking out to music curated by one of the country’s hottest DJs.

“We learned that a quarter of African American women say that they avoid dancing when on their period, an activity that doesn’t have to stop when women are using the right period protection,” said Amanda Hill, Brand Director, North America Feminine Care at Procter & Gamble. “That is why we are so thrilled to partner with HBCU Dance for the #RadiantDanceOff, because the amazing performances by these fierce majorettes encourage African American women to continue dancing and radiate confidence every day of the month.”

For full details, see the Official Rules at http://ra diantdanceoff.com/rules

North Carolina A&T Locks In MEAC Title With Win Over Savannah State

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GREENSBORO, N.C. — When the wacky football action of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference ended on Saturday, the craziness brought about clarity when it comes to the MEAC representative for the Celebration Bowl.

The North Carolina A&T Aggies took care of their affairs. The Aggies got 127 yards rushing and two touchdowns on 27 carries from junior Marquell Cartwright to earn a 36-17 win over Savannah State at Aggie Stadium. During the game, Cartwright went over the 1,000-yard mark for the season, giving the Aggies seven 1,000-yard rushers in the last eight seasons.

“It feels great to be able to reach a point that a lot of people try to reach but most don’t get there,” said Cartwright about his career season. “It feels great, but I really don’t care about it much. I want to win at the end of the day.”

Junior quarterback Lamar Raynard, Cartwright’s high school teammate at High Point Andrews, was 17-for-227 for 252 yards and two touchdowns. Along the way he broke Alan Hooker’s 32-year old single-season record for touchdown passes. Raynard has 25 TD passes on the season, eclipsing Hooker’s old mark of 24. Hooker also said goodbye to his 32-year old record for most completions in a season (169). Raynard has 175 completions on the season heading into next week’s regular-season finale.

Raynard was not finished removing Hooker’s name from the record books, however. Raynard broke the single-season school record for touchdowns responsible for. Hooker’s old mark stood at 26 (24 passing, two rushing). Raynard is responsible for 28 (25 passing, three rushing) N.C. A&T touchdowns this season. Raynard now owns single-season marks in passing, total offense and three marks mentioned earlier.

Aside from making history, the Aggies brought sanity to the MEAC race in what was an insane day. N.C. A&T (10-0, 7-0 MEAC) clinched at least a share of the MEAC title, giving the Aggies three MEAC titles in the past four seasons. North Carolina Central (7-3, 5-2 MEAC) lost in the final seconds at home to Bethune-Cookman to remove themselves from Celebration Bowl consideration.

Meanwhile, Howard (7-3, 6-1 MEAC) won in the final seconds at home over Norfolk State to keep themselves in contention, but barely. Howard can still clinch a share of the MEAC title next week with a win over Hampton and a N.C. A&T loss to NCCU. But the tiebreaker scenario is not in the Bison’s favor for a trip to Atlanta and a chance to play in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

In case of a two-way tie where the two teams did not play one another, the Sagarin rating, which measures strength of schedule, serves as the tiebreaker. N.C. A&T came into Saturday’s game with a 149 ranking, while Howard came in at 208. Howard’s opponent next week, Hampton, came in slightly lower at 224. A win over Hampton would likely not do enough for the Bison even if the Aggies lost to NCCU, which entered Saturday’s play with a 202 rating.

There is a good chance none of that will take away from N.C. A&T’s game against heated rival NCCU next week at Aggie Stadium (1 p.m.). For starters, the Aggies want their first outright title in 14 years, and it is not missed on the Aggies that the Eagles have defeated them three straight seasons.

“We’re going to enjoy this, and then we’re going to get ready for next week,” said N.C. A&T coach Rod Broadway speaking on the win over SSU. “Hopefully, we are going to play a little bit better than we did last year. I don’t know if sharing a championship is actually what we want. But let’s take the championship out of it. It is a rivalry game, and it’s Central. We’ve got to get ready to play regardless of the situation.”

The Tigers (2-8, 2-5 MEAC) tried to make the Aggies’ path to another MEAC title difficult. Freshman quarterback D’Vonn Gibbons finished with 93 yards rushing and a touchdown on 19 carries, while also throwing for 137 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions. Gibbons’ 2-yard touchdown set up by his 60-yard completion to Paris Baker got the Tigers to within 19-10 with 11:39 remaining in the third quarter.

But on SSU’s next drive, Gibbons’ tipped pass landed in the grasp of senior rover Jeremy Taylor for an interception. Taylor, who had a pick-6 last week at Norfolk State, returned Gibbons’ INT 22 yards to the SSU 9-yard line. Three plays later Cartwright was in for a 1-yard touchdown. N.C. A&T’s defense turned stingy from there. SSU’s next two drives went for a combined minus-16 yards.

N.C. A&T utilized the good field position given by its defense to start the fourth quarter in SSU territory. It led to a 32-yard field goal by freshman Noel Ruiz to give the Aggies a 29-10 lead. The Aggies capped their scoring an 18-yard touchdown pass from Raynard to sophomore Elijah Bell. Bell led the receiving corps with five catches for 77 yards. His TD reception tied the school’s single-season touchdown receptions record at 10. Bell is tied with Craig Thompson and former teammate Denzel Keyes.

“I think our guys earned the right to get to 10 wins,” said Broadway. “I don’t think we played as well as we can play, but being 10-0 is special so we’ll take the win and try to grow from it and get better.”

Alcorn State Clinches SWAC East Title, After Win over Mississippi Valley

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LORMAN, Miss. – Clinching its fourth straight SWAC East Division crown, the Alcorn State University football program blanked Mississippi Valley State 59-0 Saturday on Senior Day at Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium.

The Braves (7-3, 5-1 SWAC) become the first team in the history of the league to play in four consecutive SWAC Championship games.

Alcorn outgained MVSU (2-8, 1-5 SWAC) 746-215 in total yards. The 746 for the Braves was 10 shy of the school record of 756 set in 1994 against Grambling State.

The Braves also outrushed the Delta Devils 424-to-negative 11.

Sophomore quarterback Noah Johnson threw for 297 yards and three touchdowns, and rushed for 122 yards and two touchdowns. All three of his touchdown passes were caught by senior Norlando Veals who ended with a career-high 253 receiving yards.

Senior running back De’Lance Turner registered 171 yards on the ground with two touchdowns. Junior P.J. Simmons, the reigning SWAC Newcomer of the Week winner, posted 97 rushing yards and a touchdown.

Defensively, the Braves intercepted three passes and forced a fumble. Interceptions were made by senior Jalen Thomas, junior Leishaun Ealey and sophomore Allen Bruce. Senior Michael Brooks wrapped up a team-high seven tackles.

MVSU was led by Dewayne Betts who threw for 158 yards off the bench. Delorean Parker stood out defensively with 11 tackles and 2.0 tackles for a loss.

Alcorn scored on its second possession of the game. After an 11-yard rush by Turner, Johnson scrambled up the middle for 37 yards and a touchdown. It was a quick 28-second drive to put the Braves up 7-0. Alcorn had good field position after a short 22-yard punt by the Delta Devils on the previous possession.

On Alcorn’s next possession, the Braves faced on 3rd and 15 deep in their own territory when Johnson aired it out and Veals made a leaping grab for a gain of 52 yards. Another first down catch by Veals of 11 yards moved the ball to the MVSU 16. The Braves capped the drive with a 17-yard touchdown pass to Veals in the right corner to make it a 14-0 game near the end of the first quarter.

Alcorn’s defense backed the Delta Devils up the entire second quarter. It was highlighted by a big sack by junior Trae Ferrell, and strong coverage by Bruce on a pair of deep passes.

The strong defense paid dividends for the Braves as the offense started with good field position at the MVSU 45 late in the second quarter. Alcorn cashed in with a 36-yard touchdown by Turner through the left to increase the edge to 21-0 with 2:44 left.

On the ensuing Delta Devils possession, senior Ramonte Bell was in on a pair of sacks which forced the Delta Devils punt again. Johnson connected with senior Jalen Walker for a gain of 21 to put Alcorn in the red zone. A completion to Veals placed the ball at the MVSU 2 with 44 seconds left and setup first-and-goal. Turner capped it off with a two-yard run to the left as the Braves led 28-0 at the break.

The Braves got the ball to start the third quarter and were backed up after three holding penalties. On 2nd and 32, Johnson got outside the pocket on the right and found Veals streaking down the sideline for a 62-yard touchdown reception. Alcorn led 35-0 with 12:08 remaining in the third.

Johnson used his legs on Alcorn’s next drive. He broke off a 34-yarder to the left, followed by a 33-yarder up the middle for the touchdown. It increased the edge to 42-0 with 9:42 to go in the third.

The Delta Devils were trying to get it going offensively midway through the third, but a drive into Alcorn territory came to an end after junior Isiah Thomas forced a fumble after a completed pass, and senior Christian Brown recovered at the Alcorn 33.

The Braves took advantage of the turnover with a 66-yard touchdown pass to Veals to make it a 49-0 score with 5:33 left in the third.

Alcorn added on in the third quarter with a 27-yard touchdown run by Simmons to the left. The Braves led 56-0 at the 3:37 mark.

The Delta Devils attempted to air it out early in the fourth quarter, but Ealey jumped in front of a deep pass and grabbed an interception at the MVSU 40. The turnover resulted in three points for the Braves as sophomore Corey McCullough knocked in a 22-yard field goal. It was the only field goal attempt of the game for McCullough is the reigning FCS National and SWAC Special Teams Player of the Week honoree.

MVSU had one last chance to get on the board as it moved into the red zone with under two minutes left, but an interception by Jalen Thomas in the end zone ended the threat.

Alcorn will wrap-up the regular season next Saturday when it travels to Jackson State for a 2 p.m. game. The Braves are seeking their third straight win over the Tigers.

Another Win for Grambling State, tops Alabama State 27-7

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MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Grambling State University football team was held to just four first downs in the first half, but the Tigers were able to grind out a 24/7 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) victory over Alabama State on Saturday afternoon at ASU Stadium.

“Alabama State is a good football team and they played extremely well,” Grambling State head coach Broderick Fobbs said. “We couldn’t get much going offensively early, but that happens when playing one of the best defenses in the conference. Now we get some time to rest some players and focus on the Bayou Classic and a showdown with an excellent Southern team.”

The Grambling State offense couldn’t get much going early in the first half and the defense was able to hold Alabama State to just a pair of field goal attempts. However, the Hornets walked away with no points after a pair of blocks by Marchael Jackson and De’Aumante Johnson.

Despite not getting much going offensively, the Tigers were able to get into the red zone, courtesy of a 23-yard interception return to set up Grambling State at the Hornets 1-yard line. Just one play later, Martez Carter punched in the touchdown from one-yard out to give the Tigers a 7-0 lead with 3:43 remaining in the opening quarter.

Grambling State (9-1 overall, 6-0 SWAC) forced Alabama State to punt the football with 1:43 remaining in the first half and the Tigers went to work with the two-minute drill. Despite two straight incomplete passes, Devante Kincade connected with Jordan Jones for 35 yards to set up shop at the Hornets’ 19. After picked up a first down with his legs, Kincade hit Calif Samon for a 7-yard touchdown strike to give the Tigers a 14-0 advantage with 35 seconds left in the half.

After an Alabama State punt backed Grambling State to its own 18 and on the very next play, Carter broke free for a 59-yard run to set up shop at the Hornets’ 23. But the Tigers’ drive stalled out, but Grambling State got a 41-yard field goal by Marc Orozco to extend the advantage to 17-0 with 8:40 remaining in the third.

Grambling State put the game away midway through the fourth quarter as the Tigers marched 92 yards in 13 plays as Kincade tossed his second touchdown pass, a 44-yard strike to Devohn Lindsey to extend the advantage to 24-0 with 7:14 left.

The Hornets (3-6, 3-3) quickly answered as Alabama State went 77 yards in five plays as Darryl Pearson, Jr., connected with Ezra Gray for a 10-yard touchdown to cut the deficit to 24/7 with 5:09 remaining.

Spelman President Responds to Students Hunger Strike

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Below is the announcement released today from President Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D. which include solutions to reduce food insecurity on campus.

Dear Spelman Community,

I am pleased to share that through a process of open and productive conversation,  Spelman administrators and students working together with our food services vendor, Aramark, have reached a solution to reduce food insecurity on campus.

Through the end of 2017, Spelman and Aramark are providing 2,000 meals and up to 7,000 meals during the second semester to current Spelman students who live off campus and who have a need for a meal. Beginning Monday, November 13, any current Spelman student living off campus who has a need for a meal can obtain a complimentary meal ticket from the Office of the Dean of Students to use in the dining hall. In the interim, if a student living off campus has a need for a meal, they will be accommodated by the dining hall. (All students living on campus have meal plans and, therefore, are not eligible for the complimentary meal ticket.)

I am also pleased that the students who were striking to highlight this issue were able to end their hunger strike and remain in good health. We appreciate Mary Pat Hector and the members of the National Action Network Spelhouse Collegiate Chapter for their work on food insecurity. Also, I’d like to thank the following for their efforts in developing a solution: Aramark’s Senior District Manager Jeff Hall and Spelman Dining Services General Manager Carolyn Mangum; Spelman’s Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Darnita Killian, Vice President for Business and Financial Affairs & Treasurer Danny Flanigan, Assistant Vice President for Business and Financial Affairs Dawn Alston and Dean of Students Dr. Fran’Cee Brown-McClure.

This annual initiative supplying up to 14,000 meals a year to students in need will supplement other efforts currently in development by members of the Spelman community to stem the tide of food insecurity on our campus. Our next goal is to analyze the results of our campus survey to quantify the depth of the problem and, also, to identify what other solutions might be implemented.

Sincerely,

Mary Schmidt Campbell, Ph.D.
President

SWAC Officiating Crew Suspended

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The Southwestern Athletic Conference announced on Wednesday that the entire officiating crew from this past Saturday’s Prairie View A&M and Southern University football game will be suspended for their next assignment on Nov. 18 between Alcorn State at Jackson State with one official being suspended for the remainder of the 2017 football season.

After a thorough review, the Conference Office concluded that there was an erroneous call made.

According to The (Baton Rouge) Advocate, the play in question involved Southern running back Herb Edwards, who was credited with a 21-yard pass that was ruled for a touchdown which put the Jaguars ahead 30-24.

Replay review was not available at A.W. Mumford Stadium, but if it was it would have been clear that Edwards fumbled the ball a few yards shy of the goal line.

At minimum, Edwards should have been ruled down short of the goal line. It was unclear whether the ball stayed in bounds before it crossed the goal line, in which case it should have been ruled a touchback and Prairie View’s ball.”

For Southern (6-3, 4-1 SWAC) the 37-31 win over the Panthers (3-5, 2-3 SWAC) keeps the Jaguars in contention of a SWAC West Division title with two key conference games remaining on their schedule against Texas Southern and Grambling State.

This was originally published via HBCU Sports

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Spelhouse Students Go On Hunger Strike for Better Meal Plans

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A group of Spelman and Morehouse College students are on a hunger strike, in an attempt to change school policy and allow the donation of campus meals to the needy.

About 25 students from the single-sex liberal arts universities in downtown Atlanta started hunger striking on Nov. 2.

Mary-Pat Hector and Lillian Thomas, Spelman juniors, are among them.

Their aim: to get the colleges and their campus food provider Aramark to set up a way for students with paid college meal plans to donate unused meals to needy students who can’t afford the plans.

It is happening at universities elsewhere, spearheaded by the Swipe Out Hunger program that started at the University of California, Los Angeles in 2009, and which partners with colleges and campus food providers nationwide.

Programs vary depending on the institutions involved, but at their core they allow students to donate from their paid meal plans to needy students or homeless community members.

“By introducing a Swipe Out Hunger program at Spelman and Morehouse, we would directly impact student hunger and raise the awareness on issues impacting our fellow students experiencing hunger and homelessness while in college,” Hector, 19, said Nov. 2.

Spelman’s director of marketing and communications, Joyce Davis, said the hunger strikers raised a “very concerning” issue, of widespread hunger insecurity on campus, and the college administration will set a time to meet with strikers to discuss the issue.

“In the meantime, we are engaging our vice president of student affairs, Darnita Killian, to determine the extent of the problem on Spelman’s campus,” Davis said Nov. 2.

“No student should go hungry. We look forward to working with Aramark as we continue to explore the extent of the problem,” she said.

Davis said Spelman has already made use of support from Publix and Mimi’s Pantry, on the Clark Atlanta University campus, to address the food insecurity issues that have been brought to the college’s attention.

 Read full article via Cross Roads News

Texas Southern Student, Tarsha Jackson On Journey For Criminal Justice Reform

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On a blistering hot late summer day at a state prison in rural Rosharon, Marquieth Jackson sits behind security glass. His muscular arms poke out from a white jumpsuit and his hazel eyes peer into the visitor’s room.

More than 30 miles to the north, his mother’s brown eyes stare out at criminal justice activists seated around a table at the Texas Organizing Project’s Midtown office.

As the Harris County director for the nonprofit project, Tarsha Jackson tackles a range of criminal justice issues, and it’s not unusual to see the 46-year-old leading a protest or speaking at a rally or press conference.

Her road from loan counselor to prison reformer began when Marquieth was arrested 16 years ago for kicking a teacher in elementary school. Her years-long struggle to help her son now has catapulted her to the forefront of the Texas criminal justice reform movement.

“She’s very passionate about her work, that’s why she’s good,” said state Sen. John Whitmire, D-Houston, who has helped advise her through Marquieth’s struggles. “Her son’s in a difficult situation, but she’s using his circumstances as motivation to help others.”

Tarsha Jackson learned about the legal system in fits and starts, beginning in 2001 when she answered a call from police at her desk at Wells Fargo Bank. 

Marquieth was in fifth grade at Spring ISD’s Wunsche Multipurpose School, which then offered special education programs. At the time, Marquieth refused to be placed in time-out, so he kicked his teacher, Tarsha recalled. The school called police and the 10-year-old was charged with assault on a public servant.

READ Full Story at Houston Chronicle.

Masonic Lodges Join In Unity To Establish UDC Scholarship Program

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WASHINGTON— During a time of great disharmony and national conflict, the two Grand Lodges of the District of Columbia’s Masonic Order have come together to establish a $400,000 scholarship to support the education of students at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC).  The announcement and presentation of this historic gift will be made as part of the annual Masonic Day of Thanksgiving on Saturday, October 21 beginning at 12:00 noon. The occasion will be marked by the dedication and placement of a bronze plaque on UDC’s Cleveland Dennard Plaza on the Van Ness campus, located at 4200 Connecticut Avenue, NW.

The Prince Hall Grand Lodge Endowed Scholarship is funded by the respective Masonic Foundations of the Lodges’ Grand Jurisdictions, and represents an historic partnership between the Prince Hall Grand Lodge and the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Washington, DC The scholarships are specifically targeted to support students in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and African American students from the District of Columbia.  The scholarships will also provide emergency funds for students with critical and immediate financial needs.

“As we watch the increasing divisiveness around the country, it is inspiring to see such an incredible display of unity and brotherhood within the District of Columbia and for DC’s advanced public system of higher education,” said Rodney Trapp, Vice President for Advancement at UDC who was instrumental in finalizing the gift agreement with the Masonic leaders.

“It is an honor and privilege for me to be able to be a part of such an historic event between our two jurisdictions,” said Prince Hall Most Worshipful Grand Master Phillip David, who received his MBA from the UDC School of Business and Public Administration. “The dedication of this plaque and the establishment of this endowment confirm our commitment to education and charity for as long as we exist.”

In the spirit of Universal Masonry, both Grand Masters have expressed their commitment to public education. Grand Master Roman Volsky said the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Washington, DC is proud to join with their Prince Hall brothers to support the only public university in the nation’s capital.

“As Freemasons, we are taught that there is no better tool to improve oneself than an education, firmly grounded in the Liberal Arts & Sciences. So, it’s natural that we would support public institutions of learning that offer that education to the broadest possible audience,” said Volsky.

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The University of the District of Columbia is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution. Minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For a full version of the University’s EO Policy Statement, please visit http://www.udc.edu/equal_opportunity. The University of the District of Columbia is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 3624 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, 267.284.5000.