Clinton Will Invest ‘Historic’ $25 Billion In HBCUs Across The Country If Elected

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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Donald Trump hasn’t put out a detailed plan on what he will do to support the country’s 107 historically black colleges and universities (HBCU).

That’s one of the reasons that led Hillary Clinton to pen an op-ed for The Root that addresses her educational plans, and in particular HBCUs.

Clinton, who has championed education for over 30 years, said that Trump’s view of black communities is both ignorant and insulting, adding “He says—to largely white audiences—that African-American neighborhoods are plagued by poverty, and that people get shot just walking down the street. He claims black communities suffer from “horrible education.” He asks them, “What the hell do you have to lose?”

“The answer: A lot.”

Hillary Clinton's New College Compact Benefits Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Image credit: HillaryClinton.com

“For starters, Trump misses so much about what makes the African-American community strong and vibrant,” Clinton writes. “If he ever bothered to actually look for it, he might see the pride that black parents feel watching their kids thrive in school, the widespread success of black-owned businesses, or the triumphs of black leaders in every field.”

In addition, as Clinton points out, HBCUs are the last cultural jewel that black people have left in this country.

“HBCUs are a big part of this story,” Clinton writes. “Over the course of the campaign, I’ve visited nearly a dozen historically black schools—not just to show my support for their mission, but to shine a spotlight on many of their talented and inspiring students. In a Clinton-Kaine administration, we’d ensure that HBCUs can continue to remain a pivotal force in our society—not just for African-American students, but for all the students that attend them.”

She added, “…we’ll make a historic $25 billion investment across all HBCUs—public and private—so that each one has the funding to keep creating opportunities and providing more support services for underserved students. That includes expanding on-campus child care and creating more scholarships for students who are also parents to make it easier for them to obtain a degree.”

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Image credit: BET.com

Clinton has previously supported HBCUs and stated that her plan benefits HBCUs, compared to Trump’s plan, or lack thereof.

Clinton credited Rep. Bobby Scott, who introduced America’s College Promise Act in Congress in July, with inspiring her to take action.

“So, on Nov. 8, I hope you’ll stand with us. Vote for the kind of country we want to be. And remember that all it takes is a small mark on a ballot to make a huge mark on our nation’s future,” Clinton wrote.

The Central State University Department Of Fine And Performing Arts Presents Fall Schedule

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WILBERFORCE OH. – Central State University will open its 2016-2017 performing arts season on Nov. 4th and 6th with an original play that features a selection of William Shakespeare’s famous scenes presented with an original jazz score.

Jazz and Love in Shakespeare, the first of four theatrical productions, is a collaboration between CSU drama instructor Anthony Dallas and Assistant Professor and jazz musician Hal Melia. Students in the Theatre Arts program, the CSU Jazz Ensemble and the Central State University Chorus will all perform.

The performance will be at 7:30 pm in the Paul Robeson Cultural & Performing Arts Center, Recital Hall. Donations will be accepted at the door.

The season also includes a production inspired by the 1992 riots in Los Angeles, CA, a Mozart opera and a musical theater dance collaboration.

  • Nov. 18-19: Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992

This powerful dramatic work, written by American actress, playwright and professor Anna Deavere Smith<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anna_Deavere_Smith>, brings the tragedy of the 1992 Los Angeles riots<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1992_Los_Angeles_riots> front and center as the audience sits on the stage in the Robeson Auditorium and the story intimately unfolds in front and around them.

  • March 10-11: Highlights from The Marriage of Figaro

This performance will be March 10-11 in the Robeson Recital Hall.

  • April 6-9: The Way of the World

The season concludes with an original theatre/dance presentation of Earth, Wind and Fire’s famous song. The multi-media production is the latest collaboration between Central State and the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company. This will occur in the Robeson Auditorium.

All performances begin at 7:30 pm. The Theatre Arts Program is presented by the Department of Fine and Performing Arts in conjunction with Title III. For further information, please contact Title III Activity Director: jfleming@centralstate.edu<mailto:jfleming@centralstate.edu>.

About Central State University:

Central State University, located in Wilberforce, Ohio, is a regionally accredited 1890 Land-Grant University with a 129-year tradition of preparing students from diverse backgrounds and experiences for leadership, research and service. The University fosters academic excellence within a nurturing environment and provides a strong liberal arts foundation and STEM-Ag curriculum leading to professional careers and advanced studies globally.

This article was written by Central State University. The article is published here with permission.

Tuskegee Campus Is Packed With Thousands Of Graduates For Homecoming

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TUSKEGEE, Ala − After a week full of excitement, fellowship, music, and football, Homecoming 2016 wrapped up with the annual Homecoming/Charter Day Convocation on Oct. 3, in the University Chapel. Tuskegee alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends packed the sanctuary to pay homage to “Mother Tuskegee.”

The keynote speaker for the occasion was Tuskegee alumnus Tom Joyner, radio host of the nationally syndicated Tom Joyner Morning Show and founder of BlackAmericaWeb.com, REACH Media Inc., and the Tom Joyner Foundation, which has raised over $65 million dollars in support of students at Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs).

Induction. Joyner stressed the importance of having the will to succeed. “We were raised and nurtured to be successful at anything we put our minds to. If you are expected to succeed, chances are, you will succeed. And here I am, standing before you as one of the many successful sons and daughters of Mother Tuskegee.” Joyner said in his speech.

“If you can dream it, you can achieve it,” was something he and his brother always believed. He spoke about their participation in protests for school desegregation and economic equality, which led to his first job as a DJ. He went on to recount the paths they took, the big dreams they had, and that “Mother Tuskegee” was responsible for instilling in them the mindset to follow those dreams and succeed. Joyner added that HBCUs care more about the future of African American students than mainstream institutions.

Joyner revealed that his parents met at Moton Field, home of the Tuskegee Airmen Program. He stated that those who joined the Airmen Program had to have the will to succeed, which was taught to them by the HBCUs that they came from. He also stated that his parents, and both sets of grandparents all graduated from HBCUs, but they only had a few choices. It was because of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s that he, and those of his generation, had many choices. He cautioned that there were some real issues out there that have to be dealt with. So, he encouraged his hometown to get out and vote so that their voice can be heard.

Alumni classes

At the end of Convocation, alumni classes presented a check to the University in the amount of $54,105, and donations were still coming in. Also, Class of 1973 alumnus Paul Jones was presented with the Alumni Merit Award for being a long-time and consistent supporter of Tuskegee University.

Thousands of alumni and friends returned to campus for the festivities and packed the stadium to watch the always exciting football game and half-time show. The alumni reunion classes of 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, & 2011 were over-joyed at seeing their fellow classmates who returned for Homecoming. It was a joyous time for all.

On Friday, Tuskegee University President, Dr. Brian Johnson welcomed alumni back to campus and gave the State of the University address in the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center auditorium. Johnson spoke to alumni about increasing alumni giving. He pointed out the updated Vision Document, the newly approved Strategic Plan, the Fundraising Brochure and Student Engagement Initiatives, which includes the revamped Lyceum Series featuring notable speakers such as Mae Jemison, Kevin Powell, Roland Martin, Dr. Synthia Saint James and others. He also mentioned the Fall Convening of Partners which took place this past September in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Legacy of Military Leadership

In continuing with Tuskegee’s storied tradition of its military legacy, an inaugural ROTC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held on Friday evening. Several Army and Air Force members were inducted during the ceremony. In their honor a temporary scroll of all inductees was unveiled in the General “Chappie” James Museum. A more formal presentation of the honorees will be installed at a later date.

Memorable Moments

The week’s festivities began with Chapel service on Sunday morning, followed that evening by an inspiring Gospel Program in which the magnificent voices of the Tuskegee University Golden Voices Choir resonated throughout the Chapel. The Student Government Association (SGA) along with the Office of Student Life and Development kept events going throughout the week with a festival and music on the yard, pop-up salons, fashion shows and other student events.

The long-awaited Homecoming Parade is a grand event that always draws participation from the entire community and surrounding areas. The Grand Marshal for this year’s Parade was Tuskegee alumnus and NFL football professional Frank Walker. The winners of the 2016 TU Homecoming Parade Floats entries were as follows:

Manufactured Float winners:

1st Place – Miss Tuskegee University and the Royal Court

2nd Place – TU Student Government Association

Non-manufactured Float winners:

1st Place – Tuskegee Public School

2nd Place – By His Grace Daycare and Learning Center

The SGA turned Homecoming “All the Way Up” with student events such as a Comedy Show featuring Bruh Man, a Royal Court Coronation and Ball, a Concert featuring 2-Chainz and capped it off with a rousing Greek Step Show by the National Pan Hellenic Council.

On Friday night, alumni and friends were treated to a Comedy Show featuring the hilarious Rickey Smiley, who always satisfies the hunger for laughter with his side-splitting humor.

It was a memorable time for all who were here to experience it. To view more pictures of Homecoming 2016, click here.

This article originally appeared at Tuskegee.edu.

The Runway At Elizabeth City State University’s Homecoming Gets Serious

Posted by Delvakio Brown
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Elizabeth City State University is known for its Pre-Game and Pre-Dawn events during homecoming week.

For the spring time, Viking Fest is a huge event that many young alumni and current students look forward to.This year the annual Pre-Game was moved to the gymnasium so that meant a larger stage.

Many organizations put on a great performance from the school’s dance team to the cheerleaders. Halloween came alive in many performances. As each organization cheered on the next, everyone anticipated each others performance.  What took the crowd by storm is the two modeling troupes. VIKE NU M.O.D.E.L.S. suddenly walked across the court and slayed all the way to their seats dressed in fashionable Halloween costumes. This sent the crowd into a screaming storm.

As they took their seats slowly, everyone knew that Elite Modeling Company was not far behind. Dressed in all black, the models froze in position until it was time to take the stage.

As they took the stage it was only moments before the fun dissing started. Elite Models began to rip the runway and as they got to the front of the stage, you could feel the tension in the air. They began looking directly at the Vike NU M.O.D.E.L.S. and cutting them like a knife slicing the air. All of a sudden two of the Vike NU M.O.D.E.L.S. took a seat and a book and made the floor right in front of the stage their comfortable spot to be entertained. As one began to read a book, showcasing a sign of boredom, the other sat in the chair looking disguised. At the same time, during the performance praises were sent to each other as they cheered on each others performance.  One alumnae of Vike NU M.O.D.E.L.S. stated, “The Elite Models are really doing their thing up there, Vike NU better be ready!”

One by one the Vike NU M.O.D.E.L.S. began filing to the front of the stage to watch Elite.  When the performance wrapped up, an alumnus member of Vike Nu slowly crept up on the stage. Making gestures of if she should go on stage toward the audience, she got closer and closer to the stage until she took stage at the end of Elite’s performance.  The crowd went up in an uproar of unbelief. As both troupes began ripping the runway around each other it was obvious that both came to play no games.

When it was time for Vike NU M.O.D.E.L.S. to perform, the audience was entertained with a melody of various songs and a tricky routine. Both troupes performed in their very own unique way. The pep rally included the football team making it a known statement that when they hit the field, it was click clack boom time!

Elizabeth City pulled off the homecoming game with a win over Virginia Union with a score of 24-21.

FAMU Is No. 1 Public HBCU In Wall Street Journal Poll

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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A Florida black university has earned top honor in a recent list that ranks the top HBCUs in the country.

FAMU was named the number one public historically black college or university (HBCU) in the country by The Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education poll—a ranking based on 15 factors and categories such as student outcomes, school resources, student engagement and the learning environment (diversity).

From Tallahassee Democrat:

FAMU earned a score of 82.5 in the study’s engagement category, considered a critical area, as it is based on student recommendations, student interaction, and classroom subject breadth.

Using categories such as resources, engagement, outcomes, and environment, the list ranked 1,061 institutions. FAMU was ranked in the top 500 nationally and top 150 in the South, the university reported.

The ratings were based on surveys taken during the past four years.

Florida A&M University is an 1890 land-grant institution dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, resolution of complex issues and the empowerment of citizens and communities.

Having Only One Homecoming Week Isn’t Enough For This HBCU

Posted by Delvakio Brown
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Homecoming is so serious at Norfolk State University that one week isn’t enough for all the fun.

Events kicked off on Monday and will not end until the crack of the next Sunday. Student T’Lia Green thinks it takes a special HBCU to have a homecoming like Norfolk. “It’s ’cause we lit like that,” said Green. Students have no problem with the lengthy celebration but this year added a twist. This week students had midterms! That seems as if it’s a nightmare with impossible concentration but students actually are dealing with the double sided week very well.

One of the highlights of NSU’s homecoming is the annual homecoming pep rally. Students gather with the alumni to do the Spartan Shuffle, This pep rally alone is different from various institutions because it lasts for six hours. That’s enough time to come and watch for a while, go get something to eat, take a nap, and then come back for more pep in your spirit. From 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. everyone in attendance enjoyed sounds of the Spartan Legion marching band, dance routines, organization performances, stroll offs, and jokes from the pep rally host J.B Smoove, comedians from Real Husbands of Hollywood and Norfolk alumni.

The homecoming committee consists of the Student Government Association President, Vice President, every class president, and a committee of ten student leaders who then have an application process to select a few students who are interested in helping out. NSU student Tyshera Chambers, who was a part of the homecoming planning process, says that everyone in attendance for NSU’s homecoming simply has a different experience compared to other homecomings. “It’s not your typical homecoming #NYTHC,” said Chambers in an exciting voice. When you walk into the Student Government Association office you will quickly realize that students run the homecoming fun.

When you walk into the Student Government Association office you will quickly realize that students run the homecoming fun.  At the pep rally current students and alumni got on one accord when the dj broke out the music for the Spartan Shuffle.  It is a University dance established by SGA President Shayla Brown, 2008-2009, along with Spartan Calvary. The homecoming was very special for the football team because it was also Senior Day, a perfect way to celebrate seniors while everyone is back at home. Norfolk walked away with a win over the Morgan State Bears with a winning score of 27-14. Norfolk’s record stands at 2-6 taking on Savannah State in Savannah, Georgia next week.

‘Insecure’ Star Issa Rae Stops By Howard University

Posted by Jacinth Jones
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Ebony magazine and HBO stopped by Howard University’s Armour J. Blackburn Digital Auditorium for an advanced screening of the upcoming episodes of the HBO series Insecure. In a discussion, creator and star Issa Rae and moderator, Howard alumna Tia Brown talked about the HBCU tour and more. The half-hour comedy series entails the friendship of two black women and their challenges and experiences as they encounter a variety of social and racial issues in Los Angeles.

The episodes engaged Howard students and alumni through the infusion of hip-hop, love, friendship, colloquial language, and relatable contemporary black experiences. Insecure is debuting at a time where new series and movies directed by and about African Americans are abruptly appearing with FX’s Atlanta, Netflix’s Marvel’s Luke Cage and Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight, which have all generated positive reviews according to Rotten Tomatoes. 

“I wanted to show a much broader range of who we are. I wanted to tap into my own experiences…”

ISSA RAE

Through the discussion with Brown and Rae, the audience was able to receive an in-depth glimpse of Insecure and Rae’s journey towards the new series. Rae also explained how the program outlines the archetype society has defined for black girls. “I wanted to show a much broader range of who we are,” said Rae. “I wanted to tap into my own experiences. My core is this socially uncomfortable introverted person and I did not get to see that depicted anywhere for black people. White people get to be everything.”

Image credit: Huffington Post

Rae explained that her journey towards Insecure was anything but simple, and “I had to stop making excuses and make the show happen. I kept on giving reasons why I could not do it, but as soon as I got out of my own way, I started making it” said Rae. “There were a lot of discouraging days but I remembered hating every minute of my  9-to-5 job, so I could not imagine doing anything else.”

The show delves into racial issues and the breakdown of it which surprised the audience in regards to how blunt Rae was able to showcase her character’s experience. Rae clarified that comedy is the best way for people to become more receptive to the social issues affecting the African American community. HBO “also wanted to know more of the experiences that affect us and I felt completely free to tell it without it being watered down,” noted Rae.

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Image credit: Tubefilter

Rae’s focus on the reality of a young black woman also goes in hand with the naming of the series. “I never felt secure in my own blackness and I wanted my character to reflect that,” she said. “I was always conscious that I did not belong and had the nature of feeling out of place in addition to never feeling stable in a relationship.”

The Howard audience was appreciative of Rae’s debut with their cheers, applause, and laughter throughout the screening and discussion.

Rae’s advice to students starting their own journey was accepted with gratitude and sincerity.

Brian ‘B-Daht’ McLaughlin, WSSU Grad, Hired By Greensboro’s Hornets Affiliate

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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B-Daht is back in the world of sports and HBCU fans could not be happier.

Winston-Salem State University graduate and funny man Brian “B-Daht” McLaughlin is officially heading back to the world of sports with the Greensboro Swarm, the NBA Development League affiliate of the Charlotte Hornets.

B-Daht, along with two others were named on Thursday as in-game talents for the Swarm in a big announcement, according to a release from the Charlotte Hornets.

Many commenters took to Twitter to congratulate the successful comedian and radio host after the news.

B-Daht is back in the world of sports and, in particular, the HBCU family could not be happier:

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to help set the tone for the Greensboro Swarm’s inaugural season. It feels good to be back in the sports world and I look forward to entertaining Swarm fans.”

He is set to join the Swarm as in-game host.

The Swarm will tip off the inaugural season on Saturday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMEo1_Nj7Zd/?taken-by=iambdaht

HBCU Buzz Partners With National College Resources Foundation

Posted by Brittany Ireland
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For Immediate Release
Contact:
Brittany Ireland, HBCU Buzz (202) 438-4093
Pamela Broussard, NCR Foundation (310) 562-4725

National College Resources Foundation (NCRF) and HBCU Buzz are pleased to announce a major partnership. After both founders, Luke Lawal of HBCU Buzz and Theresa Price of NCRF discussed new and fresh ideas, they were more than eager to initiate a partnership.

HBCU Buzz, which is dedicated to promoting pride and unity within all HBCU communities in order to enhance the black college experience, along with NCRF, whose mission is to curtail the high school dropout rate and increase degree and/or certificate enrollment among underserved and underrepresented youth will make for a mutually beneficial partnership. The HBCU Buzz and NCRF are uniting to advocate for the significance of HBCUs by making a difference through educational and career focused opportunities.

The NCRF provides minority, black and hispanic, students with the tools and resources to make it into the classroom to later succeed outside of the classroom. It was established to connect minorities to college and career opportunities. The NCRF has helped over 400,000 students get in to college and provided over $5600,000 in scholarships, as wel

l have helped students secure over 100 million in scholarships and grants.

“I am excited to partner with HBCU Buzz to spread HBCU love, and share information with the world about the positive HBCU experience.  This is really going to enhance our Black College Expos and the importance of HBCUs” Price said.

The Buzz, founded in 2011, is the leading source for HBCU news for all historically black colleges and universities providing trends and breaking news about all HBCUs by strategically using references from schools, organizations and media outlets.

“After speaking with Theresa and understanding her passion for uplifting minorities, I am more than excited to work with the NCRF,” Lawal said. “We share the same ideas, same missions, and same goals and that’s why this is going to be an amazing partnership.”

Look for HBCU Buzz as a media and HBCU community partner at NCRF’s Black College Expos™ hosted in New York, DC/Maryland, Houston, Atlanta, Oakland and Los Angeles.

The Incredible Story Of A Livingstone College Alum Who Defied Doctors’ Odds Through Dance

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The world is not equipped to accommodate the needs of every type of human being. But MyKesha Smith, a 3’5 dwarf, took on her passion and college anyway.

Experiencing a college campus for the first time can be overwhelming for some but imagine it from a small person’s world. What’s huge to an average size person is humongous to them.

It is possible that you may have run across a video of MyKesha, also known as Keeshlino, on social media as her dancing and cheering is loved by thousands.

The passion for dance begun to sprout at a very young age.

When her mother, Patricia Smith, became pregnant she began attending doctor visits just as any other mother with a child will do. Then, the doctor noticed something wrong.

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As she went along through the pregnancy doctors warned her to abort MyKesha.

Doctors from Shriners Hospital saw no way of a positive life. Special children are given to special parents and that’s how Patricia took it.

“They said she wouldn’t live because of this long name that I will not attempt to say, but it was a respiratory condition brought on by her dwarfism,” explained Patricia.

Going against what was suggested she went through the full pregnancy.

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At 5-yrs-old MyKesha became fascinated with dance. Watching children dance sparked an interest in her, “Mommy, I want to dance,” an excited MyKesha expressed to her mom, tugging on her arm.

That same little girl is now inspiring a generation of teen dancers like Romello Blue:

“Keeshlino inspires me because she is always happy and has that chill vibe everywhere she goes.”

His inspiration for dance increased and now he travels dancing across the state of North Carolina by the name of Ysg Prodigy.

When taking a visit to her alma mater Livingstone, Keesh created a stir and two students even began running because they became afraid of her.

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“Oh My God! I just was afraid to meet her because I’ve never seen a dwarf in person before,” said a Livingstone student.

After the young lady faced her fears and talked to Keesh it was all smiles.

“Usually you wouldn’t catch a person her size dancing and getting hype as she does, but watching her videos can make anyone’s day,” stated Blue.

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Not wanting her daughter to be left out of any dream she wanted to accomplish, Patricia began working three jobs.

MyKesha always felt that she could do anything she wanted to and soon began cheerleading, dance, and participating in pageants.

Becoming so consumed with practices, dance recitals, and cheer competitions, many birthdays were spent on the road with celebrations at hotel rooms.

MyKesha was on a role with pageantry and was planned to compete against pageantry star JonBenet days after her murder.

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Growing up her mother thought that she would have to explain that she wouldn’t be able to do many activities in life.

“One of the difficulties I had was trying to figure out some activities that she might enjoy and explain others she might couldn’t do those other children were doing,” said Patricia, laughing. It was funny at the time, she says, because there was nothing that she couldn’t do.

“Her bones are brittle and not like the average,” said many doctors but that meant nothing to the passion for dance.

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Managing MyKesha is one busy task and no one knows that better than her manager Tiffanie Mills.

“Her energy doesn’t match her size,” said Mills.

By the age of 23 MyKesha has performed at the Queen City Awards in Charlotte, North Carolina, with DjDanceKing, DJ Awards Show with Alex Rodriquez, Carole Hefner Center for the African American Festival, and on the stage for the annual Taste Of Charlotte. If you have kept up with the Kooley Bros of Atlanta, Georgia you can catch her in one of their music videos.

Watching her swift moves you would never think that a respiratory problem even exists.

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Since being a small child she has always had big dreams and now is the host of her own radio show. Every Friday you can catch “Keeping It Short With Keshlinooo” on www.thenetstation.com from 11:30 p.m. to 12:00 p.m.

One battle that was huge for MyKesha to overcome was college. Graduating from Livingstone was not an easy task but through perseverance, she completed the task.

College began as a nervous wreck.

She went into her freshman year as a biology major failing all of her major classes but still passed enough to go on to sophomore year.

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Once sophomore year kicked off the nervousness kicked in and things went from bad to worse:

“My GPA fell to a 1.05 at the end of the semester and I was put on academic probation.”

Facing disappointment throughout her teenage years of applying for jobs, she knew that her college degree would make a better way for her.

Academic probation put a stop to cheer and dance for her until she could redeem herself.

Reflecting on all the jobs that refused to hire her because of her height, she knew that she had a point to prove.

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She finally came to the decision of changing her major; a degree in social work became the new focus.

The degree finally came to fruition and Keesh accomplished a huge goal that so many cheered her on for.

This social media sensation will be going on tour this coming up spring.  You can keep up with Keeshlinooo on Instagram: @Keeshlinooo.

Greensboro Churches Raise Monetary Offering For Bennett College

Posted by Myja Gary
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Local churches affiliated with The Pulpit Forum of Greensboro are uniting to raise a monetary offering during their regular Sunday morning service for Bennett College. The Pulpit Forum of Greensboro is an association of pastors and other clergy in Greensboro and vicinity whose roots are historically emanate from the African American faith tradition.

With a focus on civic engagement, community empowerment, and clergy enrichment, the Pulpit Forum is committed to supporting institutions of higher learning. because of Bennett’s connection to the church, the Pulpit Forum is more than eager to respond to the cause because of Bennett’s connection to the church and to the historic tapestry of Greensboro.

Click here to learn more. 

Howard Falls To Tough North Carolina A&T Team

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Howard University’s homecoming is known for bringing fans, alumni, and celebrities to The Mecca. Thousands of people gathered at the tailgate which is always a party and reunion at the same time. The Bison faced North Carolina A&T in the football game and had a tough time scoring against them. The Bulldogs beat the Bison 34-7.

You can check out the video below.

Source: The Black Beat

Writer: Marissa Watts

This Is What Happens When A Morehouse Man Tries To Talk To A Spelmanite

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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Happy homecoming Spelman College and the AUC!

Spelman is preparing to reunite with their Spelman sisters during homecoming this week. And it seems AUC students are certainly making the most of it, as they enjoy time spent on the yard during the festive week.

Scroll down for video

Some AUC students are pointing out things that you wouldn’t know unless you attend one of the three Atlanta black colleges and universities. Uploading a funny video on Temitayo Adewale Agoro’s Instagram page, AUC students show what happens when a Morehouse guy tries to talk to a Spelmanite.

The first scene starts by two Spelman sisters walking out of a store on campus at the AUC, talking about a guy.

Then, both sisters are stopped by two Morehouse men, one tells the sisters why he chose to attend an HBCU:

“Sister! Do you know why I chose to come to an HBCU? So I can see I smooth sister like yourself.”

Not messing with what the guys have to say, the sisters eventually escaped and walked away.

The clip has gathered over 2,000 views since it was posted on Tuesday.

8 Lessons I’ve Learned Since Joining A Black Greek Fraternity

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Many of us view the family as utopia. In theory, a family should be utopia but it often is not. I say in “The Black Greek Success Program” that some of us have people in jail, others have family members who are addicted to drugs or alcohol, and I joke that many of us have entire sides of our families that we would probably rather not acknowledge. If our blood relatives aren’t perfect, there is no way we can expect our fraternity brothers or sorors to be perfect. Ironically, Black Greek life has taught me how to be a better family member. What have I learned?

It takes WORK.

Any father will tell you that starting a family is easy but keeping a family together is where the real work comes in. Think about the last time a Black Greek said it is one thing to get letters but a completely different thing to stay active and involved. In the family, neither parents nor siblings are perfect, marriage does not guarantee eternal love, and kids don’t raise themselves. Just as it takes work to maintain the good name of our organizations, it takes work to support our spouses, raise our children, and maintain healthy relationships with other family members.

Respect the elders.

I will definitely be the first to say that our elders are not always right but I have also learned that they deserve respect. All of us active Black Greeks sit in meetings where brothers or sorors who have been in the organization for 40-plus years say what’s on their minds whether we like it or not. As annoying as we may find them, our elders have earned the right to be heard and respected, because they really have been there and done that. Treat yourself to a conversation with an elder in your family one day. Sit down, shut up, listen and just soak up the wisdom.

Even when it feels personal, don’t take it personally.

We all feel pain but it doesn’t mean that people mean to inflict pain upon us. Try to understand the situations of others. When we feel hurt by something a frat brother or soror does, there is often someone around to advise us to think things through.For many of us, feelings run much deeper with family. That means we have to work harder to understand the situations. If we count to 10 in order to resolve issues with our frat or soror, we should count to 100 to resolved issues with our blood relatives. Kick the pride aside and become the glue that bonds your family.

Explore the lineage.

One reason many of us Black Greeks are so proud of our history is we can trace it back to our founders. We know that family lineage can be a problem in Black America (often because of the way records on slaves were kept) but we owe it to our children and generations to come to treat whatever lineage we discover with dignity.

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A family code is a good thing.

As “Game of Thrones” is all the rage these days, some of us in Black America admit to being envious of families who have codes that go back generations. We know our organizations’ aims and ideals backwards and forward, giving us codes to live by in the Black Greek system. A family code can do wonders for a family’s identity and growth.

Take care of issues before they become problems.

It is destructive to the health of a family to allow issues to fester. In Black Greek life, I think of how aggravated I get when we don’t use chapter meeting time to resolve issues. Our families may not have chapter meeting time to resolve issues; but if we truly love our family, we can definitely make time to nip issues in the bud.

They may be crazy but they’re my crazy.

Our relatives are extensions of who we are. Let’s be honest, we have frat and sorors from whom we would gladly distance ourselves if they didn’t wear the same letters. They do, so we have to claim them; and with some compassion and work, we come to understand that their craziness often comes from a good place.But let’s look at this point from their end. Love is the great equalizer. As whacked out as a family member may seem, he or she may respond well to being lovingly claimed by a relative. The words “You are crazy as the day is long but I will love you forever” can have a tremendous healing effect.

“All we got is us.”

It may be one of the biggest clichés in Black America but it is true. When times get rough, many of us in Greek life find that we have to “lean on the shield” in order to get from point A to point B. Just like people in our respective organizations have watched us struggle in class or in our careers, our families have seen us struggle in much more vulnerable places. In a society where racism continues to threaten African Americans and family legacies, we should always work with family members to strengthen our legacies.

This article was written by Eddie Francis, the HBCU Lifestyle Podcast host and Greek life contributor, at HBCU Lifestyle where it was originally published.

Artist To Watch: North Carolina A&T’s Jahari Kweli

Posted by Chymere A. Hayes
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On any given Wednesday, you can spot Jahari on campus at North Carolina A&T State University, vibing with a group of people to music and conversations about life. Or at The Artist Bloc in Greensboro, NC on Friday nights in a small intimate space alongside other musicians and artist. None of this is new for Jahari Kweli, who on a few occasions, has pulled the strings of my musical heart and completely blown me away with his raw talent. Despite the buzz that his music has created locally, his spirit has remained so beautiful, his persona still humble, which are two things that are very easy to stray from in any kind of spotlight.

Tell us a little bit about your musical background. What initially sparked your interest? When did you start?

I’ve been around music all my life, growing up in the south, (Fayetteville, NC) I grew up in the church and we all know that goes. Throughout middle school and high school, I played the piano, trumpet, and drums in the school’s bands. When I went home, Otis Redding, Earth Wing & Fire, Jodeci, Erykah and much more were always being played.

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What artist would you say spoke to you the most?

I would have to say that D’Angelo’s music really lit that spark in me. As I started to do more research on him to understand his artistry and how he created his music, he began to inspire me. In fact one of the first songs that I really put effort into singing was “How Does It Feel” and I received great feedback which pushed me to continue further.

How has your musical style evolved from where you started to where you are now?

Although I’ve been taking music serious for 5 years, I still feel that I’m learning who I am as an artist. I’ve matured a lot since I first started and it definitely shows. What I’ve experienced throughout those 5 years have changed my thought processes. I’d say that I wasn’t as free spirited when it came to making music back then and having the freedom to create what I want to hear has allowed me to advance and capture the sounds that move me.

Earlier this year, you released a project, Golden Therapy, which I understand has a sequel coming. What can a new audience expect from this EP?

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First I’d like to say that Golden Therapy is 100% Jahari Kweli, self-produced and written. I made sure of that because I want this tape to be an introduction to who I am and the various sounds I can create.

Absolutely. After first listen, I could tell this was something the people don’t want to miss. What’s in your earbuds right now? What are you currently listening to?

Ari Lennox from Dreamville Records just dropped her EP Pho and I’m hooked on her song “Goat.”

What genre, aside from neo-soul and R&B influences your music the most? 

I would say the listener should be prepared to hear influences from soul, R&B (90’s and textured) , rock, hip-hop, and even some pop.

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In terms of longevity, what do you expect to accomplish with your musical gifts? What message would you want to leave an imprint on the hearts of those who listen to your music?

I want to become one of the greatest, mediocre is the farthest thing I aspire to be. Integrating love back into our society can fix most of the problems that we see today. I stand by what Jimi Hendrix had when he stated that “Once the power of love conquers the love of power, the world will know peace.” When someone decides to listen to anything created by me, I want them to be at peace and love is definitely a gateway to feeling that.

Listen to Golden Therapy here:

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Photography credits: @geminsgreatest | @bshembo | @ladyacid_

Howard University Homecoming Step Show (Photo Recap)

Posted by Andrea Wooten
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This year, Howard University’s Homecoming Step Show theme was “Renegade.” Each team was given a decade as the theme for their show, and each show represented some form of black struggle and black excellence within each decade. For the first time in a few years, the step show was in Burr Gymnasium on the campus of Howard University. Despite skepticism on the “new” location, the show was completely sold out and it was very very dope!

This year’s show included 8 of the 9 Greek organizations on Howard’s campus, and the show also featured the Drew Hall Step Team. The first place winners of the show were Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Beta Chapter, and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Alpha Chapter. The second place winners were Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., Alpha Chapter and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Alpha Chapter.

Check out some photos from each of the performances:

Photos by ZheSheChe Foto