HBCU Remembers the Legacy of President Jimmy Carter: A Champion for Education

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Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter will spend his 100th birthday in the home he and his late wife Rosalynn had built in Plains in the 1960s. (LBJ Library/AFP pic)

Clark Atlanta University expressed profound sadness at the passing of President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a steadfast advocate for justice, equality, and education for all. Known for his remarkable integrity and compassion, President Carter leaves behind a legacy that significantly impacted the African American community and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

In a heartfelt letter to the university community, Dr. George T. French, Jr., the president of Clark Atlanta University, reflected on Carter’s transformative influence:

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On the Passing of the 39th President of the United States Jimmy Carter

It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of President Jimmy Carter, a man of remarkable integrity, faith, and unwavering commitment to humanity. As the 39th President of the United States and a proud son of Georgia, President Carter leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of service. leadership, and compassion.

Throughout his life, President Carter championed justice, equality, and opportunity for all, including the African American community and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). His tireless advocacy for civil rights and his groundbreaking initiatives to address systemic inequalities reflect a vision of an America where diversity is celebrated, and the promise of equity is fulfilled.

President Carter’s dedication to education and access to opportunity was instrumental in the advancement of HBCUs nationwide. During his presidency, he prioritized initiatives that expanded federal support for minority-serving institutions, empowering generations of African American students to achieve their dreams. His unwavering belief in the transformative power of education resonates deeply with Clark Atlanta University and the broader HBCU community.

Beyond his presidency, President Carter’s enduring commitment to public service inspired millions. His work through the Carter Center to promote democracy, human rights, and health equity exemplified his belief in the dignity of all people. His legacy serves as a guiding light, reminding us of the power of humility, empathy, and unwavering resolve to make the world a better place.

On behalf of the Clark Atlanta University family, we extend our deepest condolences to the Carter family and join the nation in honoring the life and legacy of this extraordinary leader. While we grieve his loss, we also celebrate the indelible mark he has left on the world and the enduring lessons of hope and humanity he imparted.

Rest in peace, President Carter. Your legacy will continue to inspire us to strive for justice, equality, and a brighter future for all.

George T. French, Jr., Ph.D.

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Carter’s legacy inspires many, and his contributions to civil rights remain a significant part of American history. As Clark Atlanta University and the broader community mourn his passing, they also celebrate the enduring impact of his work in uplifting communities across the nation. 

HBCUs’s Women in Advanced Manufacturing Program Empowers Future Female Leaders

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WAM Completers December 2024

Lawson State Community College is leading the charge in preparing women for impactful roles in advanced manufacturing through its Women in Advanced Manufacturing program. This program offers specialized training in industrial maintenance and machine tool technology. Since its launch in early 2024, the initiative has already seen increased enrollment, with new students beginning their training in October and a third cohort scheduled to start in January 2025.

WAM Completers December 2024

“Employers are desperately seeking people with these skills,” said Shalanda Cheatham, WAM case manager. “These women are prepared—whether it’s pneumatics, hydraulics, or preventive maintenance, they have the expertise to succeed.”

Participants in the WAM program, such as Ashley Hutchinson, who transitioned from a career in medical billing, highlight the program’s transformative nature. “I’m now pursuing my degree and excited about the future,” Hutchinson stated.

A Two For One

The program addresses not only its students’ educational needs but also the industry’s pressing demands. According to Cheatham, graduates leave Lawson with qualifications that make them competitive in the job market. Fellow student Nicolette Wilson shared her success story, noting that she received a promotion at her job due to the skills acquired through WAM. Another student, Lillie Winston, plans to further her education after successful training.

The WAM program, funded by grants and supported by organizations such as U.S. Steelworkers/AFL-CIO, Women of Steel, the YWCA, and the City of Birmingham, aims to increase the representation of women of color in advanced manufacturing. The curriculum includes pre-apprenticeships, mentoring, and hands-on training to prepare participants for careers in diverse manufacturing environments.

“I now have the confidence and the knowledge to go forth into a career,” said Winston, reflecting on her experience with hands-on learning in the program. 

Although women comprise only 30 percent of the manufacturing workforce, initiatives like WAM are paving the way for more female professionals to enter and excel in the field. “This is truly specialized,” noted Allison Bush, a mechatronics instructor and key WAM program subject. It’s what is needed now in industry, and it is a quick way for women to get training and walk into a position that will sustain them and their families.”

As the demand for skilled workers in manufacturing continues to grow, programs like WAM play a crucial role in closing the talent gap while empowering women and enhancing their economic prospects. 

HBCU Entrepreneur Spotlight, Saeed Coleman, Central State University

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Saeed Coleman

Saeed Coleman, a 2012 graduate of Central State University, is making waves as a lyricist, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Having overcome the obstacles of his challenging upbringing in Richmond, California, including spending time in juvenile hall, Coleman has channeled his life experiences into two remarkable initiatives: Live From Paradise Clothing and the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy.

Live From Paradise

Coleman’s music journey began at 13 when he picked up the mic and recorded music with friends, ultimately leading to his opening for Nipsey Hussle during the Mailbox Money Tour in 2015. “Backstage, I shared a business idea with Nip, and with his encouragement, I launched Live From Paradise less than a week later, an athleisure brand that represents authenticity, culture, and the pursuit of paradise,” said Coleman. “Paradise is something you create, not just a place you go.” 

Live From Paradise collections are designed for people who move with purpose and want to look good while doing it. Coleman says every item reflects the journeys, dreams, and ambitions of people who come from a struggle like him but refuse to be defined by it.

10,000+ Hrs Academy

In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Coleman founded the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy, a nonprofit that supports inner-city youth aged 8-18. The academy offers life skills, entrepreneurship, trades, and more workshops to help young people overcome challenges and explore career paths. Our mission is to expose these young minds to opportunities they might not otherwise see, helping them figure out who they want to be once they graduate high school,” Coleman explains. “Watching a kid go from uncertain to unstoppable is a feeling you can’t put a price on.”

The HBCU Impact

Central State University
Courtesy of Central State University

Coleman credits his HBCU experience at Central State for preparing him for success. “It provided a nurturing environment where I was surrounded by people who looked like me, shared similar struggles, and were driven to overcome them. This experience instilled a deep sense of pride, cultural awareness, and the understanding that excellence isn’t optional; it’s expected,” he reflects. “My HBCU experience emphasized the importance of service, which directly influenced my decision to create 10,000 Hrs+ Academy and give back to youth in need.”

Next For Coleman

As he moves forward, Coleman aims to release 52 new songs this year while expanding Live From Paradise and the 10,000 Hrs+ Academy. He hopes to inspire others through relatable stories, empowering fashion, and impactful community initiatives, proving that resilience and hard work can change lives.

HBCU Student-Athletes: Join the Fight for Justice Against the NCAA’s Discriminatory Policies

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In two landmark cases that hope to reshape the future for Black student-athletes at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, a group of former athletes has challenged the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Academic Performance Program (APP) in court. The plaintiffs argue that the APP not only impacts their athletic opportunities but is rooted in a system of racial discrimination that has persisted for far too long. With the groundwork laid and momentum building, there is an urgent call for HBCU student-athletes to support this pivotal fight.

The Academic Performance Program: A Tool or a Trap?

Since its inception, the NCAA’s APP has been presented as a tool aimed at enhancing academic performance among student-athletes. However, the reality is starkly different. Data reveals that HBCU teams face postseason bans—designed to penalize schools based on academic metrics—at alarming rates. HBCUs are 43 times more likely to receive these bans compared to predominantly white institutions. This disparity has serious implications, denying student-athletes the chance to compete nationally and weakening their career prospects.

Voices from the Court 

1551px Basketball Net
© Justin Smith / Wikimedia Commons, CC-By-SA-3.0

The two ongoing lawsuits, initiated by former student-athlete men’s basketball player Troyce Manassa from Savannah State University and women’s basketball player Brenda McKinney from Grambling State University, argue that these discriminatory practices are not merely administrative oversights but intentional policies that undermine the very mission of HBCUs. In 2021, Judge Richard Young ruled in favor of Manassa, allowing his claims to proceed, underscoring the systemic inequalities inherent in the NCAA’s regulations. The court later dismissed his claims because too much time had passed since he was a player. While Manassa’s claims are on appeal, McKinney continues the fight in the trial court.

As Manassa stated, “We missed out on post-season opportunities because of a system that the NCAA knew would punish Black student-athletes. The NCAA is robbing student-athletes at HBCUs of the opportunities to experience what every college athlete strives for when they join a Division 1 school as a student-athlete: playing in post-season championship games and tournaments.”

Pushing for Systemic Change in College Athletics

Through class action, the legal teams at FeganScott and May Jung Law seek to represent all Black student-athletes who have participated in Division I NCAA sports at HBCUs since 2010, with a specific focus on current student-athletes. The lawsuits aim to hold the NCAA accountable and effect change.

“When we consider the full weight of these policies and their targeted attack on the historical realities and injustices that HBCUs were intended to eradicate, it’s clear Black student-athletes’ education is secondary to the NCAA’s purse strings,” said LaRuby May, managing attorney at May Jung Law. “This isn’t some college dream gone awry – this was a systematic dismantling of opportunity for these students, and the NCAA should be held accountable.”

The NCAA has long claimed that its reforms would create a more equitable environment for all student-athletes; however, the data contradicts these assertions. Studies indicate that the academic progress metrics disproportionately affect Black student-athletes at HBCUs, who are often first-generation college students navigating a complex educational landscape.

“Instead of implementing a solution to fairly address student eligibility and graduation rates, the NCAA knowingly exacerbated racial disparities, even going so far as to worsen the inequity between HBCUs and their predominantly white counterparts,” said Elizabeth Fegan, founding partner and managing member of FeganScott. “The exorbitant regulations, on top of lost revenue and banned postseason play, are the unfortunate consequences of a discriminatory system that was never designed to support or value HBCUs.”

Football Field Goal Sports A16c67 1024

This Is Where You Come In

Your story is crucial to this case if you are a current student-athlete at a Division I HBCU. Whether you or your team experienced a post-season ban, your story will help reinforce the need for accountability and support the push for change.

To become a plaintiff or learn more about this case and how it impacts you and other student-athletes, visit www.hbcujustice.com. The FeganScott and May Jung Law teams are ready to challenge the NCAA in a stride for a future where all student-athletes are granted equal opportunities and justice.

This is attorney advertising material. This content is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship or to provide legal advice.

Norfolk State Women’s Basketball Earns Second SEC Victory 

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The Norfolk State Spartans pulled off a dramatic upset against the Auburn Tigers, securing a 63-57 victory at Neville Arena on Sunday. Graduate guard Diamond Johnson led the charge with a stellar performance, totaling 17 points, 11 rebounds, four steals, and three assists, while sophomore guard Da’Brya Clark contributed 15 points.

Norfolk State Upsets Auburn on the Road 63-57
Courtesy of Norfolk State University

Auburn started strong with a 6-4 lead in the first quarter, but Norfolk State quickly regained control, ending the quarter with an 8-2 run. The Spartans maintained their advantage through key plays, including Clark’s buzzer-beater from beyond the arc that capped a 31-24 halftime lead.

Despite facing challenges from Auburn in the second half, the Spartans held their ground. The team’s defense and Johnson’s offensive prowess helped NSU outscore the Tigers 48-35 by the end of the third quarter. In a nail-biting finish, Norfolk State countered Auburn’s attempts to rally, with critical contributions from Williams and Fields sealing the game.

The win improved Norfolk State’s record to 12-4. It handed Auburn its first home loss of the season and snapped the Tigers’ eight-game winning streak at Neville Arena. 

This victory also ties the all-time series between the teams at 1-1 and marks Norfolk State’s second triumph over an SEC opponent this season, following a 57-54 victory against Missouri earlier in November. That game was the first time the two teams met and was the first time since 1979-80 that NSU defeated a power five conference team.  

Norfolk v. Missouri
Courtesy of Norfolk State University Athletics

With this impressive win, the Spartans demonstrate their growing strength and resilience in NCAA Division I basketball. 

DeSean Jackson Recruits HBCU Champion Kobe Boykin

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Kobe Boykin
Courtesy of Jackson State University Athletics

Delaware State University’s newly appointed head football coach, DeSean Jackson, is already making headlines in the recruiting landscape by securing his first commitment from running back Kobe Boykin, a standout from Jackson State University and the reigning 2024 HBCU National Champions.

Jackson, who officially took on the head coaching role on Friday, quickly connected with Boykin, a freshman hailing from Los Angeles, shortly after the athlete announced his intention to enter the transfer portal on Sunday afternoon. By 4:08 PM, Boykin had made his decision public via X (formerly known as Twitter), stating, “@DeSeanJackson10 #Jaccera long way from 6th ave! Let’s do it.”

Boykin comes to Delaware State with a strong athletic pedigree, boasting accolades such as Orange Coast League MVP, First Team All-State, and MaxPreps All-American honors from his high school career at Orange High School in California and Miami Edison in Florida. The 5-foot-8, 165-pound running back enjoyed a successful season with Jackson State, where he contributed to the team’s impressive 12-2 record, including an undefeated run in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

The connection between Jackson and Boykin runs deep, as both share roots in South Central Los Angeles. Jackson, a former NFL star, is committed to revitalizing Delaware State’s football program, and landing a talented player like Boykin is a promising first step.

A New Era

Boykin is expected to bring his dynamic playmaking abilities to Delaware State, where he has four years of eligibility remaining. With the addition of Boykin, the DeSean Jackson era at Delaware State University is off to an exciting start. This sets the tone for what fans hope will be a transformative period for the Hornets football team. 

Alabama A&M University Welcomes Sam Shade as New Head Football Coach

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Sam Shade Announcement

Alabama A&M University has announced Sam Shade as the new head football coach for the Bulldogs, following a successful tenure at Miles College, where he led the team to its first SIAC championship and a playoff appearance. AAMU Director of Athletics Dr. Paul A. Bryant made the announcement during a special episode of the “From the Hill” podcast on Dec. 29.

Shade, who brings an impressive coaching resume and a wealth of experience from playing in the NFL, is expected to elevate the Bulldogs’ football program. Dr. Bryant emphasized Shade’s unique qualifications: “Not only do we have someone that has played at the highest level, won a national title at the NCAA level, also coached and have coached at several levels. I was so excited to have him on on campus and be able to speak to him. And then he’s been at an HBCU,” said Bryant. “That is important for us as we look at who we want to lead our program.”

Shade Before The Hill

At 51 years old, Shade joins Alabama A&M after compiling an 18-15 overall record at Miles College, where he guided the Golden Bears to a 10-3 season and a perfect 8-0 conference record in 2024. Under his leadership, Miles achieved significant milestones, including the program’s first playoff victory and a historic win over Alabama State, a Division I FCS opponent.

Shade, a Birmingham native, began his career in football at the University of Alabama, where he was part of the 1992 national championship team and later became a team captain. He was selected by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth round of the 1995 NFL Draft and played eight seasons in the NFL with the Bengals and Washington Redskins.

In addition to his successes at the collegiate level, Shade has a background as a high school coach, having won a state championship at Pinson Valley High School in 2020. 

The AAMU Athletic Department will soon announce the date and time of Coach Shade’s official introductory press conference. As Alabama A&M looks toward the future, Shade’s appointment signals a new chapter of potential and promise for the Bulldogs’ football team. 

HBCU Band Faces Backlash Over Trump Inauguration Invitation

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The Mississippi Valley State University marching band, the “Mean Green Marching Machine,” is being criticized for accepting an invitation to participate in the 60th Presidential Inauguration Parade for President Donald Trump on Jan. 20, 2025. MVSU’s president, Dr. Jerryl Briggs, hailed the opportunity as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” that would bring pride to the university and the state of Mississippi.

With the estimated cost of attendance reaching $350,000—covering travel, accommodations, meals, and equipment transport—the band has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise the necessary funds. The 250-member band highlighted its rich history, performing at notable events, including the Rose Bowl and NBA games. They made history as the first HBCU band to march in the Tournament of Roses Parade in 1965. They also played at President Nixon’s inauguration in 1968.

Mean Green Marching Machine

Conflicting Reactions

Despite the excitement, not all reactions have been positive. Critics argue that participating in the parade supports an administration that has marginalized HBCUs and perpetuated racism and division. 

“Mississippi Valley deciding to join that orange man in DC was a choice & poor one. They from the Blackest most historical state in the union and they decide to be obtuse. I hope you don’t raise a penny, because being willfully ignorant is not a flex. It’s actually coonary,” @jaesofamous posted on X.

However, supporters of the band’s participation contend that an inaugural parade is a celebration of American music and culture, part of HBCU traditions in Republican parades.

One commenter expressed outrage about that argument, calling out Trump’s legacy as “an administration that threatens the existence of HBCUs, freedom, health, and existence of those that are already disenfranchised,” while another highlighted past disrespectful remarks made by Trump.

MVSU is improving its band hall to enhance practice facilities while preparing for the event. As fundraising efforts continue, Mississippi Valley State navigates the contrasting opinions surrounding its participation in the inauguration. They find themselves at a crossroads of tradition, pride, and the complexities of political identity.

Virginia State University Extends Head Coach Henry Frazier III’s Contract

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Dr. Henry Frazier, III

Virginia State University has announced a five-year contract extension for head football coach Dr. Henry Frazier III following a successful season that brought the Trojans back to championship contention.

In his three seasons at the helm, Dr. Frazier has led the Trojans to a commendable 21-10 overall record, including an impressive 6-1 mark in CIAA play this past season. This culminated in their first championship game appearance since 2017. Hired in 2022, Dr. Frazier returned to the CIAA after a successful tenure at Bowie State from 2017 to 2020.

Under Dr. Frazier’s leadership, Virginia State has improved its conference performance each year, with a notable record of 17-6 in CIAA games. This consistency has positioned them as one of only four Division II HBCU football teams to maintain an overall winning record in each of the last three seasons, alongside Albany State, Fort Valley State, and Virginia Union.

With a career record of 98-78, Dr. Frazier is just two wins shy of reaching the 100-win milestone. His coaching accolades include previous head coaching stints at Prairie View A&M, where he ended a 28-year drought without a winning season, and North Carolina Central, where he secured the program’s first winning record in the MEAC.

Dr. Frazier’s proven track record and ability to turn around programs make him a key asset for Virginia State, which aims to build on this season’s success and strive for future championships. 

HBCU Band Set to Perform in Trump’s Inauguration Parade 

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Mean Green Marching Machine

The “Mean Green Marching Machine” of Mississippi Valley State University has been invited to participate in the 60th Presidential Inauguration Parade for President Donald Trump on Jan. 20, 2025. Trump will be inaugurated for his second term as the 47th President of the United States. 

In an announcement on social media, the university lauded the opportunity as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” for its students. “This is not just a moment of pride for our university but for the entire state of Mississippi,” said Dr. Jerryl Briggs, president of the institution. He emphasized that the performance would allow the band to showcase its cultural legacy and invest in future community leaders.

Making It Happen

The 250-member band is actively fundraising to cover the estimated $350,000 cost of travel, accommodations, meals, and equipment transport for the trip. The band has set up a GoFundMe page, highlighting their extensive performance history at prestigious events, including NBA games and parades such as the Rose Bowl and New Orleans Mardi Gras.

The “Mean Green Marching Machine” is continuing a proud legacy; the band made history as the first HBCU band to march in the Tournament of Roses Parade in 1965. In addition, they performed at President Nixon’s inauguration in 1968. With their upcoming appearance, Mississippi Valley State joins Talladega College’s “Great Tornado Marching Band,” which performed at Trump’s first inauguration in 2017, raising an impressive $667,000 through fundraising efforts.

The Mississippi Valley State needs the community’s support as the band prepares for the event, celebrating its heritage and showcasing its students on a national stage. In the meantime, the band is making improvements to the band hall to facilitate practice.

Back in 2017, the Tupelo High School Band made the trip to D.C., representing Mississippi in President Trump’s first inauguration parade.

DeSean Jackson’s Next Play? Head Football Coach at HBCU

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DeSean Jackson

Multiple reports indicate that Delaware State University is close to finalizing a deal with former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson to become the next head football coach. Although the agreement has not yet been finalized, sources indicate that Jackson and the university are close to an official announcement.

Jackson On Field

Jackson, 38, completed his illustrious NFL career in December 2023, retiring as a member of the Eagles after an impressive 15 seasons with six teams. He was a standout player for Philadelphia from 2008 to 2013 and again from 2019 to 2020, earning three Pro Bowl selections and making a notable impact with his game-breaking speed. He also played for the Washington Redskins (2014–2016), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2017–2018), Los Angeles Rams (2021), Las Vegas Raiders (2021), and Baltimore Ravens (2022).

The news comes on the heels of Jackson’s recent role as an assistant football coach at Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, California, during the 2024 season. Reports suggest he completed an on-campus interview with Delaware State earlier this week. ESPN’s Pete Thamel confirmed that coaching an HBCU has long been Jackson’s dream.

Jackson will replace Lee Hull, who was dismissed from the position after the Hornets concluded their season with a disappointing 1-11 record. The team plays in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference of the Football Championship Subdivision and has not experienced a winning season since 2012.

From NFL Star to HBCU Coach

As he transitions from player to coach, Jackson brings a wealth of experience and a desire to inspire the next generation of Delaware State athletes. He follows in the footsteps of other notable sports figures, including his former teammate Michael Vick, who was recently appointed head coach at Norfolk State. Jackson finished his career with 641 catches, 1,145 yards, and 58 touchdowns, and his hiring at Delaware State could mark a new chapter for the struggling program. 

Bennett College’s“Black Madonna” Quilt: A Tapestry of Legacy

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Black Madonna

In a heartwarming celebration during the 2024 commencement weekend, President Suzanne Elise Walsh and alumna Marilyn Y. Gore, Class of 1974, stood before an extraordinary quilt that pays homage to Bennett College’s storied heritage. This intricate masterpiece, a quilted representation of the renowned “Black Madonna” stained glass window, was created by the late artist Eva Hamlin Miller and now hangs proudly in Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel.

The quilt is more than just an artistic work; it represents a long journey of inspiration sparked by a simple Christmas card. “It’s amazing how something so small can spark such a grand idea,” said Gore, reflecting on the quilt’s embellished blue, gold, and black hues. After receiving a card featuring the Black Madonna from Bennett, Gore tucked it away, hoping to bring the image to life one day.

Gore collaborated with her daughter, Charlene, an artist, to translate the Christmas card into fabric. “I only had the Christmas card to work from,” Gore explained, praising Charlene’s skill in enlarging the image and dyeing the fabrics. The creation process required meticulous attention, especially when outlining the design with black bias tape.

Despite challenges, including the intricacies of depicting the Madonna’s face, the final product emerged as a testament to their combined talents. Walsh marveled at the quilt, noting its imperfect symmetry only added to its vibrancy and life.

Quilting has been a lifelong passion for Gore, who learned the craft at a young age on her family farm. Her experience as a Home Economics major at Bennett refined her skills, prompting her to inspire countless students as a family and consumer sciences educator. Through her business, “Stitching and Stirring,” Gore continues to explore her creativity.

Strength Resilience and Grace

The quilt holds profound personal significance for Gore, symbolizing her art and deep connection to Bennett College. “I got married in the chapel,” she reminisced, emphasizing the window’s importance in her life. She wanted to contribute to the college that shaped her journey, so she gave the quilt to Bennett. “It belongs here,” she asserted, highlighting the qualities of strength, resilience, and grace represented by the Black Madonna.

President Walsh echoed Gore’s sentiments, celebrating the quilt as a significant addition to Bennett’s Global Learning Center. “I only had the Christmas card to work from,” she said.

UNCF’s Mayor’s Masked Ball Raises $4M to Support HBCU Students

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Christmas came early for the United Negro College Fund as its annual Mayor’s Masked Ball raised an impressive $4 million to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities on Dec. 21, as reported by Black Enterprise. Held at the Signia Hotel, the event welcomed over 2,000 guests dedicated to empowering diverse scholars and institutions.

Actor Anthony Anderson, a proud Howard University alum, served as the master of ceremonies for the evening, which featured performances by hip-hop icon Big Boi and legendary singer Charlie Wilson. Themed “A Night of Elegance and Generosity: Celebrating Support for HBCUs and Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders,” the masquerade illuminated UNCF’s mission of promoting educational opportunities for Black youth.

Dr. Michael Lomax, UNCF president and CEO, celebrated the organization’s significant contributions over its 80-year history, having raised approximately $6 billion to support higher education for African Americans. Reflecting on his 20 years of leadership, Lomax shared, “We’ve helped over 600,000 students get a college education, and over the last 20 years, we’ve raised $4 billion, and over the last four years, we’ve raised over a billion dollars. We’re helping more students than ever before, and HBCUs are more popular than ever before.”

The ball, hosted by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, emphasized the collaboration between celebrities, elected officials, and corporate leaders to support academic achievement. This year’s event honored Nicole “Nikki” Loftin, president of Social Impact and the UPS Foundation, recognizing her contributions to the cause.

As UNCF continues its mission, the call remains strong for support to ensure that HBCU scholars can fulfill their academic ambitions. Donations are crucial in maintaining momentum, reminding supporters that “a mind is a terrible thing to waste.” The legacy of the Mayor’s Masked Ball reinforces the ongoing necessity for funding in pursuit of higher education for all.

HBCU Set to Host Inaugural National 4-H Soccer Cup in 2025

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Nat 4H

Diego Lahaye eagerly anticipates the landmark occasion when the University of the District of Columbia hosts the inaugural National 4-H Soccer Cup from March 12 to 16, 2025. As project lead and a 4-H program associate within the Center for Urban Agriculture & Gardening Education in UDC’s College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability, and Environmental Sciences, Lahaye is optimistic about the high participation levels of youth athletes nationwide.

“We are extremely excited about this event taking place at UDC, and I think we’ll see a lot of participation,” Lahaye stated, noting that teams from states such as Nebraska and Texas have already confirmed their participation.

The National 4-H Soccer Cup is part of the broader Ignite by 4-H summit, aimed at enhancing athletic excellence and fostering sportsmanship among young athletes. The competition will highlight boys’ and girls’ teams as they showcase their skills on UDC’s new state-of-the-art athletic field.

In addition to the soccer matches, attendees will benefit from a series of educational workshops led by field experts throughout UDC’s Van Ness campus. Workshops will cover vital topics such as sports integrity, youth leadership, nutrition, crime prevention, and integrating STEM principles in sports. Opportunities for coach and referee licensing will also be available.

According to 4-H, over 1,000 youth travel to Washington, D.C., each year to attend the Ignite summit, making the National 4-H Soccer Cup a historic event for UDC and the entire organization.

“We are dedicated to helping the players and coaches reach their full potential. We also want to create friendships,” Lahaye says.   

Another Score for Lahaye

Lahaye has a track record of positively impacting youth sports at UDC. In 2023, he was awarded the Northeast Urban Extension Award for his “Healthy Living Urban Youth (Soccer) Program,” recognized for its significant community contributions. 

“Our 4-H Soccer Program is an all-year-round program. We are dedicated to promoting youth soccer for recreational and competitive purposes,” Lahaye says. “The National 4-H Soccer Cup is an extension of that. The roles that these student-athletes assume on the field are the same ones that youth encounter in their families, schools and communities.” 

Dean Dwane Jones of CAUSES expressed pride in UDC’s involvement in this groundbreaking event. “This groundbreaking event, hosted at UDC’s main campus, will unite talented boys’ and girls’ soccer teams nationwide for a multi-day competition showcasing the next generation of leaders and athletes through collaboration, skill-building and unforgettable experiences,” Jones said.

Greg Ruffin Returns to Shaw University as Head Football Coach

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The Shaw University Bears welcome back an old friend as Greg Ruffin takes the helm of the football program again, marking a significant moment in the team’s history. The announcement came from the university early Tuesday.

RuffinGreg17

“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Ruffin back to Shaw University,” said George Knox, Shaw University’s Athletic Director. “His energy, experience, and vision for the future of our football program align perfectly with our mission. Coach Ruffin’s commitment to developing student-athletes and building a championship culture makes him the ideal leader for the Bears.”

Ruffin previously led the Bears football program in 2002, when he re-established the team, achieving a remarkable 7-3 record in that inaugural season. His extensive coaching background includes over three decades at various universities, including a recent running backs coach and recruitment coordinator position at Alabama State. Known for his dynamic coaching style and dedication to player development, Ruffin is eager to reinvigorate the Shaw football program.

“I am honored to return to Shaw University and lead the Bears football program,” said Ruffin. “This is a special place with a rich history, and I look forward to building upon its legacy. Together, we will strive for excellence on the field, in the classroom, and within the community.”

A press conference introducing Ruffin as head coach is set for Jan. 7 at 11 a.m., where fans, alumni, and media members can join in celebrating this pivotal moment for Shaw football. 

HBCU Band Performs With Beyoncé in NFL Christmas Gameday Halftime Performance 

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Beyonce Ocean

The Texas Southern University Ocean of Soul Marching Band shared the spotlight during a historic halftime show headlined by global superstar Beyoncé at the NFL Christmas Gameday, held at NRG Stadium on Dec. 25. As the Houston Texans faced off against the Baltimore Ravens, the Ocean of Soul brought its signature sound and energy, enhancing an already electrifying performance.

The band, known for its dynamic displays and musical prowess, featured nearly 200 members who dazzled fans with brilliant choreography and vibrant music. The presence of the Ocean of Soul highlighted the significance of HBCU bands in major entertainment events and underscored the cultural heritage they represent.

Beyoncé’s show was produced by Parkwood Entertainment and Jesse Collins Entertainment, marking her first live performance since the release of her record-breaking album, “COWBOY CARTER.” The halftime set featured a medley of hits, including “16 CARRIAGES,” “BLACKBIRD,” and the viral sensation “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM,” which saw Beyoncé lift to the rafters in a spectacular finish.

Adding to the excitement, the Ocean of Soul collaborated with Beyoncé and other guest performers, including Post Malone and Shaboozey. The Houston Texans Cheerleaders brought additional energy. The performance honored the spirit of rodeo culture through special guests like cowboy legend Myrtis Dightman, Jr., known as the “Jackie Robinson of Rodeo,” Miss Rodeo Texas Princess 2004 Nikki Woodward, and the first Black Rodeo Queen in Arkansas, Ja’Dayia Kursh.

This groundbreaking performance is a testament to the talent and dedication of Texas Southern University’s musicians, showcasing their ability to shine on a national stage. As Beyoncé delivered an unforgettable message about heritage and artistry, the Ocean of Soul stood proudly as a vital part of this historic moment in NFL history.