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.
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 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.
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.
“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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There has always been a strong connection between HBCUs and the NFL – Source: Unsplash
HBCUs have always played an important role in the world of football. There have been many athletes who have come through from these institutions to shine in the NFL and gone on to enjoy successful professional careers. Even though HBCUs do not get the same level of attention as schools in some of the other big conferences, there has always been a history of talent coming through.
Patrick Mahomes has been a very vocal supporter of HBCUs in the past and has lent financial support to the HBCU Legacy Bowl. His Kansas City Chiefs team has players who attended HBCUs, as well as a number of coaches on the sidelines. Many of them have already tasted Super Bowl success, and they will be pushing for a third championship in a row against the Eagles this weekend.
Many fans considering betting on football this weekend will be considering how some HBCU alumni will perform at the biggest event in sports. Those players will not be the first to do so though. Here are six players who have already played in and won a Super Bowl.
Walter Payton
One of the greatest players of all time, Walter Payton, is remembered as a prolific rusher and was one of the stars of the Chicago Bears team that won Super Bowl XX against the New England Patriots. Payton was born in Mississippi, and after receiving no invitations from SEC schools, even though he was one of the top running back prospects, he went to Jackson State, where his brother played.
Payton set all kinds of records at Jackson State before being drafted by the Bears as the fourth overall pick in 1975. The pro game was just as easy for “Sweetness” in a 13-year NFL career spent wholly in Chicago. He rushed for over 1,200 yards in 10 of those years (with two being shortened by lockouts) and will forever be remembered as one of the true greats.
Jerry Rice
One of the greatest wide receivers of all time, Rice is also from Mississippi and had wanted to go to MSU but didn’t receive a scholarship offer so opted for Mississippi Valley State instead. He immediately started showing just how good he was and set school records in his four years as a college athlete before being taken in the first round of the 1985 draft by the San Francisco 49ers.
The Niners, led by the legendary Joe Montana, had already won two Super Bowls, and Rice initially had some tough competition for a place on the field. But he ended up playing the majority of games in his 16 years on the team, winning three Super Bowls of his own – and being named MVP in 1988 – as well as becoming a 13-time Pro Bowler.
Mel Blount
Three Super Bowl rings are something special. But how about winning four? Blount was born in Georgia and, after showing talent in football, basketball, baseball, and track in high school, was offered a scholarship by Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His performances at safety and cornerback there soon attracted scouts from the NFL.
Blount was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1970 and they became the dominant team of the decade, with much of the reason being Blount’s talents. His size and speed changed the idea of what a cornerback could be and he ended up winning four Super Bowls in an exemplary 14-year career.
Art Shell
After growing up in Charleston, South Carolina, Art Shell played both offensive and defensive tackle at Maryland State – now the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. After a successful college career, Shell was drafted by the Oakland Raiders, then of the AFL. It was a connection that was to continue throughout his life.
Shell played 15 seasons with the Raiders, initially on special teams and then on the offensive line. He was part of the team that lost Super Bowl II but went on to win three – as well as playing 156 games in a row at one point. He also coached the Raiders in two separate stints but could only take them as far as the AFC Championship game in 1990.
Shannon Sharpe
It is all very well winning multiple Super Bowls with a dominant team. But winning multiple championships with two different teams shows that you can really play. Shannon Sharpe honed his talents at Savannah State in Georgia and also played basketball and competed in track and field, as well as starring on the football team.
Although his numbers didn’t lie, Sharpe was not considered a top prospect in the 1990 NFL Draft and he was eventually taken in the seventh round by the Denver Broncos. He didn’t start off too well as a receiver but everything changed when he was converted to tight end, eventually winning two championships before joining the Baltimore Ravens – where he promptly won another one.
There could be more HBCU alumni Super Bowl winners this year – Source: Unsplash
Doug Williams
He may not have won as many championships as some of the athletes in this article but Doug Williams goes down in history as the first Black quarterback to both start and win a Super Bowl. He also won the MVP award for throwing for 340 yards and four touchdowns in a single quarter as Washington beat Denver in 1988.
Williams played for the Grambling State Tigers in college but, although he led the NCAA in several categories, finished only fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting and was taken by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1978 draft. He then played in the USFL for two years before his most successful period with Washington. He later went back to Grambling State and won two HBCU National Championships as head coach.
Educator, musician, and author Chantee Williams El Jean Francois is transforming the lives of underserved youth in Maryland through her innovative program, Dream Big Academy. DBA intertwines financial literacy education with cultural pride and entrepreneurship.
With over 15 years of experience working in juvenile detention centers across Washington, D.C., and Maryland, Williams has witnessed firsthand the challenges at-risk youth face. This motivated her to create a curriculum that integrates essential financial skills with Black history, ultimately leading to the launch of her own business and a series of children’s books, including “What’s an HBCU?”
One of Williams’ many obstacles is educating communities about the importance of learning financial literacy from an early age. “Many of us weren’t taught about money, entrepreneurship, or credit growing up, so convincing schools, parents, and communities that these lessons are just as important as traditional subjects has been a battle,” Williams said.
To combat this, she tailors her teaching methods to make learning about finance fun, relatable, and applicable. She breaks down complex concepts into manageable lessons that resonate with students and families alike.
What Makes Dream Big Academy Unique
DBA is more than just a program. It is a holistic approach to equip students with the entrepreneurial skills necessary to build businesses while fostering emotional resilience. Unlike traditional educational frameworks, DBA emphasizes mental wellness alongside real-world financial experience, ensuring participants learn how to manage money and develop critical life skills.
Despite challenges in scaling her businesses and balancing numerous creative pursuits, including managing her clothing line and band, Williams remains committed to her mission. “The real impact hit me when I saw students reading them, applying the lessons, and getting excited about money, books, and business,” she shared. “A teacher told me that one of their students read my book and said, ‘I never knew I could start my own business this young. I want to be an entrepreneur just like the people in the book.” That moment confirmed why I do this.”
Williams is working toward integrating her financial literacy and entrepreneurship books into school curricula throughout her district. “Entrepreneurship education is the future,” she emphasizes. Students need to learn how to create opportunities, build wealth, and think like innovators.”
Williams did not attend an HBCU, but she is dedicated to spreading awareness about the impact and legacy of these institutions. “I actually didn’t even know they existed until I was already in college,” Williams said. “This is another reason why I wrote the book, ‘What’s An HBCU?’ because I still feel a lot of kids still do not know about HBCUs or their history.”.
Through her work, Williams aims to leave a legacy that inspires the next generation by planting seeds for future leaders and innovators. For more information about Dream Big Academy and Chantel Williams’ work, click here.
Delaware State University is expanding its graduate degree offerings by introducing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership in Adult and Higher Education program. The program aims to prepare future leaders in the higher education landscape.
This program, which will launch in Fall 2025, is one of the few available in Delaware and joins a short list of similar offerings at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It will focus on training higher education administrators and educators.
“Teaching at Delaware State University has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The program’s commitment to blending theory with practice allows me to engage with students who are passionate about transforming higher education,” said Dr. Adriel Hilton, an affiliate faculty member. “It’s inspiring to work alongside such dedicated future leaders, knowing that the knowledge and skills they are gaining will have a profound impact on the institutions and communities they serve.”
Students enrolled in the Ad&HE program will learn from a team of full-time faculty and scholar-practitioners. The program’s structure is designed to accommodate those already working in entry-level or adjacent post-secondary positions, providing avenues for career advancement and enhanced competencies. The curriculum strongly emphasizes diversity, adult learning and development, assessment, and student success.
In addition to standard coursework, students will gain practical experience and research skills by engaging in capstone projects with higher education clients. Signature experiences may also include optional internships and courses focused on pressing issues such as student retention and the historical context of higher education.
The MEd in Educational Leadership will also offer a direct pathway to the Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership in Higher Education. This approach will enable students to earn both degrees within roughly five years at DSU.
Applications for the MEd program are open for Fall 2025.
The National Science Foundation has selected Southern University and A&M College as one of the institutions nationwide to receive a significant funding boost. The announcement, made on Tuesday, reveals that Southern University will be a key participant in a $40 million NSF grant dedicated to strengthening research capacity and workforce development in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Southern University and A&M College, a public historically black land-grant university in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Louisiana Networks of Excellence for Tomorrow
This funding supports Louisiana Networks of Excellence for Tomorrow, a four-year initiative led by the Louisiana Board of Regents. The project promises to facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing among higher education institutions. It will also link stakeholders to essential research resources, facilities, and opportunities throughout the state.
“The funded program will enable students in Louisiana to acquire the independent, criticism, and analytical thinking skills needed to drive future technological innovation in the state,” said Dr. Lealon Martin, dean of the College of Science and Engineering at Southern University. “The Southern University College of Sciences and Engineering is proudly partnering with other STEM institutions around the state to build a framework that will support sustainable pathways for students to capitalize. The possibilities are limitless.”
The initiative will target critical scientific and technological advancement areas, including materials and manufacturing, bioscience, energy, and environmental solutions. High-priority topics such as data science and cybersecurity will also be emphasized. The grant will facilitate various activities, such as mentoring programs, graduate scholarships, and outreach efforts aimed at K-12 students to cultivate a diverse and competitive future research workforce.
Joining Forces
Southern University will collaborate with institutions throughout Louisiana, including Louisiana State University, Louisiana Tech University, and the University of New Orleans.
This grant comes through the NSF’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research. EPSCoR seeks to strengthen research infrastructure while increasing participation from underrepresented groups in STEM disciplines.
Shaw University has established a partnership with The Patterson Family Foundation, founded by best-selling author and philanthropist James Patterson. This collaboration aims to empower students dedicated to writing and the critical role of teaching literacy.
James Patterson is celebrated for his extensive body of work, comprising over 200 published titles. He is equally renowned for his philanthropic endeavors to enhance educational opportunities nationwide. With this latest initiative, the James Patterson Teacher Education Scholarships will provide $75,000 to support ten Shaw University students. The scholarships aim to reduce financial barriers for aspiring writers and teachers.
Courtesy of the National Endowment for the Humanities
Each scholarship recipient will receive $7,500 to aid their academic pursuits, allowing them to focus on honing their craft and gaining the skills necessary to inspire others.
“We are excited to partner with the Patterson Family Foundation to offer the James Patterson Teacher Education Scholarships,” said Dr. Paulette R. Dillard, president of Shaw University. “This initiative gives our students the opportunity to pursue their passion for writing and teaching writing while supporting our mission to develop future leaders and educators. We appreciate the Foundation’s investment in our students and their success.”
This partnership follows a similar initiative announced last month at the University of the Virgin Islands. There, the Patterson Family Foundation also pledged $75,000 to fund scholarships for students interested in writing and education.
Shaw University is actively seeking additional partners to join in its mission to uplift talented students through scholarships, academic programs, and initiatives aimed at student success.
For more information about the Patterson Teacher Education Scholarship or how to support Shaw University, click here.
This article sources information from Shaw University.
Carson Vincent, a senior offensive lineman at Alabama A&M University, is one step closer to accomplishing his professional football dreams. Vinson has received an invitation to the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. This announcement comes just days after his standout performance at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, where he distinguished himself among top collegiate talent.
The combine, slated to take place from Feb. 24 to March 3 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, is a critical event for NFL prospects. It provides players with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in front of professional scouts and coaches. Vinson is one of 329 prospects invited, marking another milestone in his promising athletic career.
Vinson’s recent accolades include being the first HBCU player invited to the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl. He joined other elite talent to showcase his abilities on a national stage. The 6-foot-6, 317-pound lineman played a crucial role in helping Alabama A&M rank in the Southwestern Athletic Conference in both total offense (444.5 yards per game) and passing offense (260.5 yards per game). His contributions were vital as the Bulldogs also ranked third in rushing offense, averaging 184.0 yards per game.
With an impressive overall offensive line grade of 89 percent, Vinson recorded 61 knockdowns and allowed only one sack throughout his senior season, which came against SEC powerhouse Auburn in the season opener. Vincent was selected as the Phil Steele 2024 SWAC Offensive Lineman of the Year and earned a spot on the AFCA FCS All-America Second Team.
Putting A Spotlight On HBCU Sports
Reflecting on his performance at the Senior Bowl, Vinson expressed confidence in his capabilities. “I think it went great — I played to my standard,” he said. He added that competing against SEC talent was crucial for showcasing the caliber of athletes coming from HBCUs. “We got dawgs at FCS and we compete, we play. I’m not a charity case — I’m here to play football.”
Vinson’s journey illuminates the path for future HBCU athletes aspiring to reach the NFL. As he prepares for the Scouting Combine, Vinson aims to continue proving that talent knows no boundaries, whether from Power Five conferences or historically Black colleges and universities.
Fans can tune in for live coverage of the NFL Scouting Combine on NFL Network or NFL+ starting Feb. 27.
This article sources information from Alabama A&M Athletics.
In a remarkable milestone for both Tuskegee University and the veterinary community, Dr. Treyton Diggs, a 2007 College of Veterinary Medicine graduate, has been named the 2024 Veterinarian of the Year by the Westminster Kennel Club. This honor marks him as the first African American and the first person from Louisiana to receive this distinguished recognition. He was selected for his unwavering dedication to animal care and his profound values in the veterinary profession.
“We are extremely proud of Dr. Diggs and the many accomplishments he has made since graduating from Tuskegee University,” said Dr. Ruby L. Perry, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. “He represents well the proud legacy and leadership history our college has in the veterinary profession.” She thanked Dr. Diggs for his ongoing efforts to “Raise the Bar to Excellence” for their college.
After earning his degree, Dr. Diggs returned to Louisiana, where he initially worked at VCA Causeway Animal Hospital. In 2013, he took a significant step in his career by founding Allstar Animal Clinic. The facility specializes in soft tissue, orthopedic surgery, and canine reproduction. His commitment to excellence is evident in his training from board-certified specialists across various disciplines, including cardiology, neurology, and emergency care.
Tuskegee University President and CEO Dr. Mark A. Brown also congratulated Dr. Diggs on his significant achievement. “ This is yet another example of how Tuskegee prepares our students to solve the world’s most complex problems,” he noted. “Dr. Diggs marks a path for current and future Tuskegee students to follow. By pursuing a dream and diligently working to become an expert in his field, he is showing the leadership that we strive to instill in all our students.”
This article sources information from Tuskegee University.
