Summer Is Over, But “Beating The Drum For HBCUs” Isn’t

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For close to two years now, I have been “beating the drum for HBCUs,” as former Claflin University Professor Patricia H. Koger calls it. Now, let’s fast forward to summer ‘16.

I “hit the ground running” as my mother told me when I came home. Within a week of me completing my junior year of school at Claflin University, I met with New York State Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow and was able to gain his support with the initiative, as I updated him on all that was going on. I figured this would be appropriate since last year he made a commitment to become a sponsor. Within the next few weeks, I met NY Congressman Charles B. Rangel, legendary Civil Rights activist Al Sharpton, and former NYC Mayor David Dinkins. All of them, are outstanding and extremely knowledgeable men.

As my summer picked up, I met with Yonkers, NY City Clerk Vincent E. Spano, spoke to NYC residents at The National Action Network in Harlem, read to elementary school students at Paideia School #24 in Yonkers, provided words of advice to students at Roosevelt High School in Yonkers and Truman High School in The Bronx and I was featured in Harlem Community Newspaper. On May 19, I met with business owner and rapper Jadakiss. Later that day, I met with NYS Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer. Both of whom, on the same day, sponsored The NYS HBCU Initiative! Jadakiss is a first time sponsor of the initiative and Assemblywoman Mayer has sponsored for the second time. Later that month, I fundraised with Mrs. Leigh-Bracey, Supervisor of Casework at DSS in Yonkers and met with Active Plus NYC founder Tarik Kitson and others of the Harlem Rotary.

Now, I was ready for the second part of my summer to begin. My first internship experience!

I interned through The UNCF and BAEO, the Black Alliance for Educational Options. Through BAEO, I was able to travel to Nashville, TN for The National Charter School Conference. I made sure to record numerous HBCU students on the campuses of Fisk, Meharry, and TSU. When back in NY, my uncle John Sherman Merritt and I made a discovery that traced our family back to the 1770s! Aside from that, I was able to catch up with Mr. Andres Martin, the Brooklyn Nets & Barclays Center Account Manager, and recorded even more HBCUs students at Howard University. As my summer began to come to a close, I had gained the support of LHHNY singer and songwriter Cardi B! I completed my second internship at the Yonkers District office of Westchester County DSS and most recently received a letter from Congressman Eliot L. Engel.

In a word, my summer was iconic. I want to thank everyone that has assisted me to get here. I was able to travel across the country this summer. I am humbled to have had a rapid networking experience.

I thank God for all that he has done and continues to do for me. Next stop, senior year!

Dennis Richmond Jr., a rising graduating senior at Claflin University, is a member of the Class of 2016 HBCU Top 30 Under 30 list. He advocates for HBCUs through his New York State HBCU Initiative. 

73 HBCU Students Named As White House HBCU All-Stars

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The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities announced its third class of HBCU All-Stars on Friday.

Seventy-three students at several HBCUs across the country are recognized on this year’s list for their influence in academics, leadership, and civic engagement.

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In a statement, U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. said that the 73 All-Stars will serve as ambassadors for one academic school year at their individual HBCUs. He also said that the Initiative is looking forward to working with the class of 2016 All-Stars:

“During the course of one academic school year, the 73 All-Stars will distinguish themselves as exemplars of the talent that HBCUs cultivate and as noble ambassadors of their respective institutions. The Initiative is looking forward to working with this third class of All-Stars and is confident this opportunity will allow the Initiative to meaningfully connect with HBCU students and advance academic excellence at their schools.”

According to a press release, the All-Stars serves their HBCU and community by executing the following tasks on and off-campus:

  • Students will serve as ambassadors by providing outreach opportunities and communicating with other students about the value of both education and the Initiative as a networking source.
  • Using social media, relationships with community-based organizations, and sessions with industry professionals, the students will share proven practices that support opportunities for all young people to achieve their educational and career potential.
  • They will also participate in the White House HBCU Week Conference, national and regional events, and webinars with Initiative staff and other professionals on a range of disciplines that support a spirit of engagement and personal and professional development.

Kim Hunter Reed, the Deputy Under Secretary of Education and Acting Executive Director White House Initiative on HBCUs, agreed with King’s sentiments:

“We’re looking forward to working with this new class of HBCU All Stars. Our goal is to provide a unique opportunity for these talented students that exposes them to critical national conversations and thought leaders. No doubt they will make their mark and represent their campuses well.”

The White House Initiative on HBCUs works to promote HBCU excellence, innovation, and sustainability.

Below is the list of the 2016 HBCU All-Stars, in alphabetical order by hometown state, the school they attend and the school’s location

ALABAMA  

Birmingham – JerAnthony Colvin, Talladega College, Talladega, Ala.

Catherine – Shannon Baldwin, Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical College, Huntsville, Ala.

Tuscaloosa – Jasmine Lavendar, Stillman College, Tuscaloosa, Ala.

ARKANSAS

Opelousas – Russell Williams, Philander Smith College, Little Rock, Ark.

CALIFORNIA

Los Angeles – Paris Adkins-Jackson, Morgan State University, Baltimore, Md.

Riverside – Breanna Lumpkin, Lane College, Jackson, Tenn.

CONNECTICUT

Norwalk – Andre Earls, Wiley College, Marshall, Texas

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Brittney Young – Howard University, District of Columbia

FLORIDA

Fort Lauderdale – Kennedy James, Virginia State University, Petersburg, Va.

Miami Gardens – Dominique Nicholson , Florida Memorial University, Miami Gardens, Fla.

Miami – Kiara Johnson, Houston-Tillotson University, Austin, Texas

Tampa – Victoria Harrison, Bethune Cookman University, Daytona Beach, Fla.

GEORGIA

Albany – Angelica Howard, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Ga.

Albany – Chelsea Basley, Albany State University, Albany, Ga.

Atlanta – Jarell Jordan, Morehouse College, Atlanta, Ga.

Atlanta – Gabriel Carter, Oakwood University, Huntsville, Ala.

Atlanta – Alicia Montgomery, Savannah State University, Savannah, Ga.

Dehli – Vishal Singh, Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, Ga.

GHANA (ACCRA)

Abednego Commey, Tougaloo College, Tougalo, Miss.

ILLINOIS

Chicago – Ashley Reid, Spelman College, Atlanta, Ga.

Chicago – Christopher Simpson, Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, Fla.

LOUISIANA

Baton Rouge – Kalaia Tripeaux, Southern University Agricultural and Mechanical College, Baton Rouge, La.

Mount Hernon – Karla Martin, Xavier University, New Orleans, La.

Rustonm – Endiah Green, Grambling State University, Grambling, La.

MARYLAND

Baltimore – Wanda Parks, Coppin State University, Baltimore, Md.

Beltsville – Benjamin Webster, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, Md.

Fort Washington – Ashleigh Williams, Hampton University, Hampton, Va.

Lanham – Donovan Blake, Bowie State University, Bowie, Md.

Silver Spring – Rachel Kenlaw, Howard University, Washington, D.C.

MICHIGAN

Detroit – Michael McGee, Hampton University, Hampton, Va.

Detroit – Tiffany Brockington, Howard University, Washington, D.C.

Detroit – Vester Waters, Mississippi Valley State University, Itta Bena, Miss.

Oakland Charter Township – JaMon Patterson, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Ga.

MISSISSIPPI

Madison – James Griffin, Jackson State University, Jackson, Miss.

Lamar – Savahn Jordan, Rust College, Holly Springs, Miss.

Raymond – Sabrevian Davis, Hinds Community College, Raymond, Miss.

MISSOURI

Blue Springs – Alexis Pulliam, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Ala.

Kansas City – Jeanna Johnson, Dillard University, New Orleans, La.

St. Louis – Jabreia Taylor, Kentucky State University, Frankfort, Ky.

NEVADA

Las Vegas – Joselyn Miller, Alabama State University, Montgomery, Ala.

NEW JERSEY

Freehold – Edgar Ortiz, Delaware State University, Dover, Del.

Turnersville – Pearis Bellamy, Hampton University, Hampton, Va.

NEW YORK

Brooklyn – Destiny Modeste, Paul Quinn College, Dallas, Texas

Staten Island – Brianna Fugate, Spelman College, Atlanta, Ga.

NIGERIA (LAGOS)

Temilade Aladeniyi – North Carolina Central University, Durham, N.C.

NORTH CAROLINA

Concord – Paul McGee, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, N.C.

Durham – Tremell Parker, Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, N.C.

Durham – Asheley Taylor, Bennett College, Greensboro, N.C.

Fayetteville – Kenya Glover, Livingstone College, Salisbury, N.C.

Fayetteville – Terrance McNeil, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Tallahassee, Fla.

Henderson – Niya Brooks, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, N.C.

Lexington – Deja Young, North Carolina Central University, Durham, N.C.

OHIO

Akron – Britney Gibbs, Wilberforce University, Wilberforce, Ohio

OKLAHOMA

Muskogee – Nicholas Simon, Langston University, Langston, Okla.

PENNSYLVANIA

Boothwyn – Anitra Jackson, Cheney University of Pennsylvania, Cheney, Pa.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Aynor – Malcom Shealer, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tenn.

Orangeburg – Kingsley Uche, Claffin University, Orangeburg, S.C.

Orangeburg – Quinn Smith, South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, S.C.

TENNESSEE

Memphis – Janeisha Harris, Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tenn.

Memphis – Jasmine Dean, Rust College, Holly Springs, Miss.

Memphis – Kimble James, LeMoyne Owen College, Memphis, Tenn.

TEXAS

DeSoto – Wendon Blair, Jarvis Christian College, Hawkins, Texas

Houston – Kaleb Taylor, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas

Houston – Sekia Wyatt, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas

Manville – Elijah Sharpe, Lincoln University of Missouri, Jefferson City, Mo.

San Antonio – Damon Lake, St. Phillips College, San Antonio, Texas

Texarkana – Stacy Roberson, Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Ga.

VIRGINIA

Bristow – Chayse Lavallais, Prairie View Agricultural and Mechanical University, Prairie View, Texas

Newport News – Ravin Vick, Norfolk State College, Norfolk, Va.

Norfolk – Na’eem Wilkins, Shaw University, Raleigh, N.C.

Richmond – Danielle Ebelle, Virginia Union University, Richmond, Va.

WEST VIRGINIA

Bluefield – Michael Bennett, Bluefield State University, Bluefield, W.Va.

VIRGIN ISLANDS

St. Kitts – Joash Liburd, University of the Virgin Islands, St. Kitts, UVI

CAU Art Museum Launches ’20/21 Visions’

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The Clark Atlanta University Art Museum will launch a new series this fall called “20/21 Visions,” the school announced on Thursday.

According to a CAU press release, the new series features 7-minute presentations by artists and arts professionals that intends to start new conversations about the black community and African and African Diaspora art. From the CAU Newsroom:

“The Clark Atlanta University Art Museum will launch a new series on Sept. 11, 2016, at 2 p.m. called “20/21 Visions.” The new series features impactful 7-minute presentations by artists and arts professionals designed to spur in-depth conversations about the development of African and African Diaspora visual art of the 20th and 21st centuries. Each presentation concludes with academic and curatorial discussion. This innovative series will be held in the CAU Art museum located in Trevor Arnett Hall on CAU’s main campus at 23 James. P. Brawley Dr., SW. The GPS address for parking is 190 Mildred St., SW.”

Maurita Poole, Ph.D., a cultural anthropologist and curator who specializes in race and identity formation, gender and sexualities, the anthropology of art, and image-based ethnography, will give the first session. She will discuss the works by Egyptian-born Nubian mixed media artist Fathi Hassan in a presentation. The idea, Poole explained, is to “enrich and deepen existing conversations about African and African Diaspora art.”

Clark Atlanta Art Gallery Tour ~ July 2012:

Poole added, “The Art Museum, through this new program, seeks to provide a local space that allows artists and arts professionals to discuss their work with diverse communities in the Atlanta area.” Poole also said that the CAU Museum boasts as one of the largest permanent collections of black fine art in the United States including, Woman in Blue (ca. 1969), by William H. Johnson and Pickets (1946), by Roy DeCarava.

The CAU Art Museum is located in Trevor Arnett Hall on the CAU campus.

An Essay By UMES Grad Antoine Cobb

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I am the only child of a high school graduate and a high school dropout. Both were substance abusers the majority of their adult life – in and out of prison throughout most of my childhood.

I am also a product of one the nation’s least-effective school systems and was erroneously placed in special education from grade two to grade 10.

Living in a drug-infested, crime-ridden community, there were no adults to guide me. I had to create my own opportunities. These are daunting problems. I am proud I emerged from this cauldron as a stronger and highly motivated professional.

Early on, I discovered a passion for technology. Computers allowed me to overcome many of my childhood difficulties. I was attracted to computers because they provided useful information otherwise inaccessible to someone like me with limited personal and educational resources. Technology helped level the playing field for me.

I studied electrical / electronics engineering technology at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 2007. I am proud to be the first person in my immediate family to graduate from college.

UMES was where I first believed I could do anything I wanted if I persevered.

One class – freshman math – changed my life. Studying hard but performing low on exams resulted in a mid-term grade of “F.” That propelled me to work harder to pass the class. Working with a math tutor, I spent three hours every day on homework assignments as well as additional questions.

I earned a “B,” which gave me the confidence to believe anything I put my mind to and work hard at, I can achieve. After this experience, I never doubted myself and changed my way of thinking. I know I can come up with solutions and reasons why things can be done and goals can be accomplished.

In the ensuing nine years, I have benefited from working in the private sector for employers who exposed me to federal government systems, reinforcing a confidence in myself nurtured by my college experience.

My goal is to create large-scale positive change through technology and business practices. So, I am going back to school. I will pursue a Master of Business Administration from the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business.

Ideally, I want to do what I can to keep the United States competitive and reclaim manufacturing jobs migrating to other countries.

Editor’s note: This essay by Antoine Cobb, a 2007 graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, appears on the “First Generation” webpage of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.

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Miss PVAMU Postpones Offer to Compete For Miss Texas USA

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From the desk of Jeaiza Maria Quinones, the 84th Miss Prairie View A&M University:

Earlier this summer I watched the world stand in awe as a Black woman, an HBCU grad at that, won the title of Miss USA. As I watched her stride across the stage and eventually claim the title with tears and shock, I felt my heart fill with overwhelming joy and pride. In a world that has made it so difficult for women of color to see representations of ourselves in the media, a Black woman was finally winning. It brought me back to that joyful feeling I had experienced just months before when my dream of becoming the eighty-fourth Miss Prairie View A&M University became a reality. As I sat there watching a new queen, I began to wonder if it was finally time for me to begin the fight for a larger span of representation in the world of pageantry. With that small ounce of inspiration, I decided to apply for the upcoming Miss Texas USA pageant.

Filling out the application was nerve-racking. I must have started and stopped again a few dozen times. Each time I would tell myself, “Girl this is a HUGE pageant…they are going to view this application and laugh.” After all, who was I to apply? I had already defeated my insecurities and gone on to defeat the odds as a plus size woman in the pageant I had just completed, but was this an arena I was even prepared for? Still I completed the application, and with hesitation I submitted the form and closed my laptop hoping to forget the “silly” thing I had just done. I remember speaking to one of my pageant sisters and laughing about the whole thing. “I know that is not going to happen girl…” I’d say. There was no way a plus size woman representing Prairie View would be accepted.

So months later as I sit here with a letter in hand, which states that I have been selected to represent my area in the 2016 Miss Texas USA Pageant, I am in utter shock and simultaneously humbled. Yes, it did happen. Yes, there is a way that this plus size woman representing Prairie View was accepted. Unfortunately, this won’t be happening for me this year. You see, this amazing opportunity conflicts with a once in a lifetime opportunity related to my first love, Prairie View A&M University.

I truly believe that as much as a queen is DESTINED to receive limitless blessings and opportunities, she must always recognize that there is a time and place for every blessing, opportunity, and crown. Coincidentally, the Miss Texas USA pageant will take place on the very day that my prestigious HBCU opens the doors of our very own stadium; one my student body has dreamed of for almost a decade. One that my beloved administration and alumni have supported wholeheartedly. On that day, I will become the first Miss Prairie View to walk into that stadium with my Panther family. I will never be able to relive that experience, or my reign.

I will, however, be able to try again on the journey to Miss Texas USA.

As I look at this letter, I don’t just see an acceptance. I see a dream that has become a reality for me and for women like me. I see a future that surpasses my current reign, and an opportunity to build a legacy for the university I adore in 2017. I will hold on to this vision throughout the upcoming year, and with that hope in mind, I will try once again.

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HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

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HBCU-Top-30-Under-30 2016

Since their inception in the early 1800s, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have produced some of the finest and most celebrated African-American men and women across the country in every human endeavor.

HBCUs are breeding grounds for cultural awareness as well as character and community building. In an effort to socialize and honor the wealth of talent each these institutions yield, the annual celebration – HBCU 30 Under 30 – was born. Those who have made the 30 under 30 classes in years prior include civil rights leaders, doctors, Olympians, educators, politicians, lawyers, musicians, engineers, actors/actresses, humanitarians, professional athletes, religious leaders, bankers, writers, and scientists. Check out the former classes here. This year, we are ready to highlight the best class yet!

Every institution, large or small, has scholars that deserve to be nationally recognized for their achievement and/or contribution. These leaders represent the best-of-class HBCU scholars who embody the mission of our beloved institutions. They while blaze a trail in their own regard.

HBCUs have more to offer than homecoming; and as members of the HBCU community, it is our duty to reach back and pull forward.

This year we are pleased to announce 30 distinguished HBCU-educated scholars.

(30) Demetrius Johnson Jr. – University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

Demetrius Johnson Jr. HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

Demetrius Johnson Jr. is the youngest out of all existing HBCU supportive organizations to operate a non-profit organization in supporting HBCUs and the first President, CEO, and Founder of HBCU Campaign Fund organization, which is based out of Chicago, Illinois. Mr. Johnson is a native of Chicago, Illinois, and is currently an undergraduate student at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (a historically black college and university located in Pine Bluff, Arkansas), where he is studying in the field of computer science to be expected to graduate in May 2016. Mr. Johnson is a graduate of Christian Fenger High School. At UAPB, Mr. Johnson served in many organizations such as SGA, UPB (Union Programming Board), and the Arkansasawyer to name a few. He worked as a student coordinator at the Harrold Complex Living and Learning Center on campus.

Upon graduation, Mr. Johnson is seeking graduate school in the field of non-profit leadership, public administration, business management or educational leadership preferably at a HBCU in the growth of him to improve his skills and knowledge in the betterment of operations of HCF. He is inspired in wanting to pursue in becoming a President or Chancellor of an HBCU institution one day and as well as operating HCF.
As described as a high energize, enthusiast and visionary advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Mr. Johnson vision of the HBCU Campaign Fund were to organize a non-profit organization that will be an essential tool to support the significance, another avenue of advertisement and raise contributions to providing assistance for HBCUs and students who attend them. HCF was founded in 2012 and incorporated as a non-profit in 2015. Mr. Johnson dream goal is to assist HBCUs in continuing to be primer institutions that were created to serve academic excellence to the African-American community and as of today a diverse population.

Mr. Johnson intentions for the HBCU Campaign Fund in becoming a foundation to give back to HBCUs and students and join the list of other organization such as United Negro College Fund, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, and Tom Joyner Foundation. He wants HCF to be the field of promoting the existence into the eyes of future interest students and supporters to attend and support HBCUs by keeping them alive for many years and centuries to come. He wants to live to grow and learn by being the first President and CEO of HCF in improving and moving the organization to serve HBCUs, students, and alumni.

As a young up and coming President and CEO of a non-profit who is inspired and dedicated to working in helping educational institutions that were created over 140 years to teaching and training African-Americans. Mr. Johnson hopes to experience and expertise working with HBCU Chancellors and President, faculty and staff, students, alumni, supporters, corporation support and fellow HBCU supportive organization. He also hopes to experience and expertise working with the college students from an empowerment and youth-driven perspective.

(29) Valerie Edwards – Elizabeth City State University

Valerie Edwards

Even back in high school in Whiteville, NC, Valerie Edwards had her eye on the news. She paid attention to newspapers, to the local news, to the news magazines that gave her a window to the wider world, to the national news that morphed into the 24/7 institution it is today.

Valerie’s curiosity has paid off, because now, after four years at ECSU, she’s headed to one of the pre-eminent schools of journalism in all the world— The Columbia School of Journalism, in New York City. She’ll pursue a Master’s of Science degree there. Valerie credits much of this new opportunity to two professors at ECSU, her Honors advisor Dr. Velma Blackmon and Professor Kip Branch, her advisor on several school publications.

“The thing that made ECSU so great for me was that I got a whole education, one that pushed me to learn but that did it in a way that was right for me. My professors knew me by name and really got to know me. And I was encouraged to try things outside my usual frame of concentration. In my case, I’ve always been interested in verbal things, and I sort of always knew that I’d be doing something in that direction, but I also needed to broaden my experience. I was able to do that at ECSU in ways that no other school offered. In fact, I am a double major in Mass Communications and Aviation Science and I’m licensed to fly a Cessna 150. Imagine doing that at any other school!”

“In short, I came away from ECSU ready for the world, with lots more to take with me than I brought with me to school. And I thank ECSU for that.” Edwards is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., National Association of Black Journalists, Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society, Women in Aviation International, and Active Minds.

(28) Kaj Najee Gumbs – Morehouse College

Kaj Najee Gumbs HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

Kaj Najee Gumbs is an active 20 year old Man of Morehouse. As a student at Morehouse he has taken on many roles. In 2014 Kaj Became the youngest Keynote speaker at the Chantilly Pyramid Minority Student Achievement Committee’s (CPMSAC) annual award ceremony; the largest minority Award Ceremony in the State of Virginia. Over the last two summers Kaj has worked as a Public Affairs and Political Affairs Summer employee for the United States Ambassador to Canada, Bruce Heyman. In June of 2015 he was appointed as a Peace Corps Campus Ambassador to the campuses of Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Clark Atlanta. Later that year he was elected as the Vice President of the Morehouse College Young Democrats of America, he works for Razor Solutions Group LLC., a political consulting and fundraising firm, and at the beginning of 2016 he was appointed and sworn in as Georgia NAACP Youth and College Division Political Action Committee Chairman.

Over his short tenure with his position, Kaj has set a strict agenda for himself. Over the last two months he has done community outreach and taken on fights against the potential legislation in the state of Georgia such as: Georgia House Bill 859 that allows the concealed carry of a firearm on public colleges in the state of Georgia, and Georgia House Bill 757 that allows the discrimination of LGBTQIA folk from being served by any business that feels it against their religion. Kaj has testified in front of the Georgia Senate Judiciary Committee to speak out in opposition of House Bill 859. Once the bill was ultimately passed, Kaj has been an outspoken advocate against the bill, and has worked to continuously put Governor Nathan Deal to veto the bill.

Kaj has also set forth an initiative to reach out to the next generation and express to them the importance of becoming civically engaged. He has recently concluded an almost 2 month tour in which he has gone out to high schools in the Greater Atlanta Area, such as Benjamin Elijah Mays High School, and discussed the importance of becoming civically engaged, the importance of sexual assault prevention and reporting, and has also garnered results by registering almost 100 young students to vote.

While working for the United States Ambassador to Canada, Kaj worked as a direct point of contact between the State Department and the Canadian and U.S. sports teams during the Pan-American Games in Toronto, Canada, the largest sporting event to ever be held in the country. Currently, Kaj works for the offices of a “Georgia Stand-up,” a non-profit organization in the state of Georgia that takes on a plethora of issues, from Sexual Assault to voter disenfranchisement. Alongside his work with the non-profit, he has advocated and is in the process of working with the Fulton County Board of Elections to help get voter polling booths on all three campuses in the Atlanta University Center. During the summer Kaj will be working for the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, focusing on keeping strong Unions in the city of Atlanta and protecting the rights and dignity of all working class people.

(27) Imani Pope-Johns – Howard University

Imani Pope-Johns HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

As someone who has a passion for seeing people with their own businesses thrive, the only way she saw fit is to help others is through publicity. As a former magazine writer and 20-something media maven, Imani has been able to secure red carpet appearances, develop partnerships, increase social media visibility, secure product placements, press in local to international media and much more.

Essence.com, Yahoo!, Thrillist, Conde Naste Traveller, Yahoo Travel, TheRoot.com, BET.com, Heed Mag, Sister2Sister Magazine, Fox 5 News DC, Black Enterprise, AFROPUNK.com, Singersroom.com, MTV, BeMagazine, Soultrain.com & more…

Imani began marketing her services under the name, ModelisquePR (2010 – 2012) with her former client, singer Qwanell Mosley of music group Day26. After years of work, she created Influplexity, LLC; a publicity boutique providing services to beauty, lifestyle (food, fitness, finance, tech, wine) and music. The company motto is sophisticated influence and she strives to provide clients with media services of quality with grace.

Check out her most recent clients were Airfordable, Sole Savers, Finances Simplified and MECKids

(26) Dennis Richmond Jr. – Claflin University

Dennis Richmond Jr. HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

Class of 2017 | African and African American Studies Major – Education Minor Dennis Richmond, Jr. is a 21-year- old graduating senior at Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina and upon graduation (2017) will be a second generation Claflinite, following his mother Mrs. Hortena D. Richmond. While matriculating and Claflin, Richmond has been awarded over a half dozen scholarships. Two of his scholarships and his summer 2016 fellowship have all been through the UNCF. Richmond has appeared on over two dozen television stations through the UNCFs, “An Evening of Stars” event, to which he was awarded a $25,000 scholarship through Target and the UNCF.

Richmond’s most notable piece of work to date, prior to his demonstrated passion for genealogical research, is advocating for HBCUs through his New York State HBCU Initiative. He continues to, “beat the drum for HBCUs” as former Claflin professor Patricia H. Koger stated to him over a year ago. Richmond travels across New York, free of charge to educate students about the importance of HBCUs and the benefits, scholarships, and networking opportunities that can be achieved when they attend them. Richmond’s initiative is specifically for New York and many New Yorkers are very much aware of it. He is sponsored by businessman and rapper Jadakiss, Former NBA Player and Ex. Dir. of The Nepperhan Community Center in Yonkers, NY Rev.Dr. Jim Bostic, three NYS Assembly members; J. Gary Pretlow, N. Nick Perry,and Shelley Mayer and he has gained the support of LHHNY’s singer and songwriter Cardi B, Congressman Eliot L. Engel, NYS Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Dr. Ivory A. Toldson of The White House Initiative on HBCUs, andAshley Sharpton to name a few.

Despite his rapid networking and growing fan base, Richmond has two internship experiences under his belt, both of which were completed summer 2016. He was the Education Policy and Public Affairs intern for The Black Alliance for Educational Options (BAEO) in Washington, D.C. and the Departmental Aide and Casework intern at Westchester County DSS’s Yonkers Office. He is a member of numerous organizations including The NAACP and Pi Gamma Mu Honor Society, and was a February 2016 Who’s Who Among Students In American Universities & Colleges Honoree.

(25) Malik Perkins – Central State University

Malik Perkins HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

As a recent graduate from Central State University I am thrilled to begin my career in my hometown with Newscenter 7! I am an All Media Journalist and I provide content for television, radio, and print. I was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. I attended Dayton Christian Schools from Kindergarten all the way through High School at their various campuses. I ran track and played football as a student at Dayton Christian. I also played trumpet in the band for seven years.

In May of 2014, I graduated from Central State University with a bachelor’s degree in Communication with a focus in Broadcast Media. During my college years I was a member of the Invincible Marching Marauders, served as president of the National Association of Black Journalists, and hosted the radio program “Jazz at Sundown” on Jazzy 88.9 WCSU. I also worked in WHIO radio as a board operator and helped produce “Flyer Feedback.”
I was granted the opportunity to become an All Media Journalist during my last semester of college. I am looking forward to telling the stories of our community. I couldn’t be more excited about covering Dayton, Ohio!

(24) Nolan D. McCaskill – Florida A&M University

Nolan D. McCaskill

Nolan D. McCaskill is a breaking news reporter at POLITICO, where started as an inaugural member of POLITICO’s Journalism Institute in 2014 before accepting a yearlong fellowship through 2015.

Nolan is a 2014 graduate of Florida A&M University, where he received legacy, vision and student journalist of the year awards for his leadership and selflessness. He was also named a third-place College Journalist of the Year in 2014 by the Southeast Journalism Conference.

A former editor-in-chief of his college newspaper, The Famuan, and former producer for his university’s live television newscasts, Nolan has also completed internships at Ocala Style Magazine and The News & Observer.

(23) Shae Harris – North Carolina A&T

Shae Harris HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

Shae is the Deputy Director at the Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs in Washington, D.C, where she informs policies and legislation for people returning home from incarceration. In her capacity, she directs and coordinates operations, while serving as the liaison between her agency, community-based organizations and local/national stakeholders within the reentry community.

She received her Master of Public Administration from American University and holds a B.A. in Political Science from North Carolina A&T State University. She also received a Nonprofit Executive Management Certificate from Georgetown University.

Previously, she served as the School Partnership Manager for College Summit, the nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of low-income youth by connecting them to college and careers. Shae also has a wealth of experience from working with various nonprofits in the D.C. metropolitan region to improve the lives of marginalized and underserved populations in the District.

(22) Tariq Touré – Bowie State University

Tariq Touré HBCU Top 30 Under 30 2016

Tariq Touré is a Writer and Social Justice Advocate born and raised in West Baltimore, Maryland. Touré’s undergraduate career was spent at Bowie State University where he earned a full football scholarship. With a Master’s Degree in Social Work concentrating in Macro practice from Howard University, Touré has paired his renowned creative spirit with lifelong change agency, and catapulted himself among the best emerging new millennial thinkers in the world. In 2014 and 2016 Touré organized the first two annual “Professional Athlete Summits” engaging minority athletes in developing a wider perspective on the business and politics of sports.

Touré is the co-founder of the first Interfaith Rally Against Hate (IRAH) in response to violence against the marginalized religious communities. Touré’s debut compilation of poetry, “Black Seeds” was the number one selling book in African American Literature and in Black History Month of this year and is ranked in the top 100 best sellers on Amazon. In 2016, Touré has been recognized as one of the top 100 Muslim advocates for justice by MPower Change, and honored as the “Rising Community Voice” in Baltimore Magazine’s Best of Baltimore 2016 issue. International Hip Hop artist “Black Thought” and renowned Baltimore Author “D. Watkins” have regarded Tariq Touré as the “Amiri Baraka of this era.

(21) Christina Epps – Coppin State University

Christina Epps

Christina Epps (born June 20, 1991) is an American track and field athlete who specializes in the triple jump. She competed at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing without qualifying for the final. Her personal bests in the event are 14.09 meters outdoors (+1.1 m/s, Eugene 2015) and 13.16 meters indoors (New York 2014).
Epps grew up in Morristown, New Jersey and graduated from Morristown High School in 2009.

Keturah Orji joined Team USA teammate Andrea Geubelle as the only two with 2016 Olympic Standard at 2016 United States Olympic Trials (track and field) and will represent the United States at Athletics at the 2016 Summer Olympics and in the fifth round the pair were joined by Christina Epps who jumped the 2016 Olympic Standard to form a trio for Rio.

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Nick Cannon Says He’s A Freshman At Howard University. Here’s What Every Freshman At College Should Read.

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Nick Cannon has enrolled as a freshman at historically black Howard University in the nation’s capital, according to a photo Cannon shared on his personal Instagram account that shows him posing in front of a Howard University sign in his first day of school’s best (every guy should own a good pair of boots) on campus at the school.

But Cannon and the rest of the students in the Class of 2020 at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the country should read this important guide about surviving your first year at college that was created just for you, and I will tell you what it is after this.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BJV-IL7jfjt/?taken-by=nickcannon

“Welcome to the bison family, Nick Cannon,” one Twitter user said, after hearing the news that Cannon decided to attend Howard.

Indeed, it’s never too late to go back to school. The Howard community welcomed Cannon to the family, but they also had their fair share of funny jokes. From Vibe:

“Naturally, the internet had some fun with the fact Cannon is bringing his 2002 Drumline movie character to life. Nick played the role of a prolific drummer in the school band as a freshman at a historically black university.

Orlando Jones also known as Dr. Lee in Drumline, posted a playful tweet going back to a popular line he relayed to Cannon in the film.”

“Cannon, 35, did not say what prompted his decision to enroll, or what he plans to study,” reported CNN.

Now I will tell you what Cannon and the Class of 2020 at HBCUs should read, but first check out this video of Cannon showing Howard pride.

This is what you have been waiting for, here is what Cannon and the Class of 2020 at HBCUs should read about how to survive their first year at college below.

Earlier this year, HBCU Buzz released the #HBCUFreshmanBible to help build a bridge for students to make a successful transition from high school to black colleges. In this edition of the #HBCUFreshmanBible, the HBCU Buzz Staff has collected and written on a variety of topics, from Black Greeks and calculating college spending, café food, and getting involved on campus to college parties and tips to impressing the ladies, decorating your dorm room, and visits to the financial aid office on campus. You can view the #HBCUFreshmanBible here.

Central State University freshman during the Candlelight Ceremony held in August on campus at the school.

Welcome to the family Class of 2020!

Longtime Black Press Advocate, HBCU Grad George Curry Dies At Age 69

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The Knoxville College family and the HBCU community are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of George Curry. He was 69.

Image result for george curry

His sister, Christie Love, confirmed the news in a message:

“It is with deep regret to inform everyone that my brother, George passed away earlier today.”

Curry, who graduated from Knoxville College in Tennessee, where he edited the school paper and played football, played a major role in the overnight rise of Emerge magazine—recently, in an effort to address topics relevant to the black community, he had been raising money to relaunch Emerge as an online magazine. From NBC News:

“He also served as editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine in the 1990s, and within the past year, he had been raising money to relaunch Emerge as a digital magazine covering racial injustice and other issues important to the black community.”

“He became the first African-American to be elected president of the American Society of Magazine Editors,” reported NBC News.

Curry was considered to be a “giant in journalism.” His work, in fact, helped open doors for others, and in particular black journalists climbing the ladder.

The HBCU community, and the whole world remembered him on Twitter:

Morehouse Professor Marc Lamont Hill said, “George Curry loved us so much. And he gave freely, without worry of reciprocity or reward.”

Lamont added, “He was a hero. This hurts.”

Hampton’s Francena McCorory Wins Second Olympic Gold In Women’s 4×400 Relay

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She came, she saw, she conquered. From the beginning, there were probably few questions of whether Hampton’s Francena McCorory and the 2016 Olympic relay team would speed off with its sixth consecutive title in the women’s 4×400 relay final on Saturday in Rio.

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It was just a matter of time.

The 4×400-meterteam defended their title and McCorory is now a two-time Olympic gold medalist. A champion track and field athlete, McCorory “didn’t run a leg on the U.S. foursome” that won the title but she earned Olympic gold for her incredible effort “in getting the Americans in the final the night before,” writes Elliot Denman at the Daily Press.

The women’s 4×400 boasts a winning streak dating back to the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta after last night’s big win, and it’s still going strong, per TeamUSA.org’s Peggy Shinn:

“The winning streak started 20 years ago…

In the final night of Olympic track and field in Rio, the U.S. women’s 4×400-meterteam won its sixth consecutive Olympic gold medal.

Allyson Felix anchored the team of Courtney Okolo, Natasha Hastings and Phyllis Francis to the gold-medal six-peat in 3:19.06. Jamaica finished second in 3:20.34 for the silver medal — one place better than they finished in London. And Great Britain brought home bronze in 3:25.88.”

“Felix and Francena McCorory, who ran in the 4×400 heat for the U.S. yesterday, also competed on the 2012 Olympic relay team that won gold in London. Hastings won gold with Felix on the 4×400 team at the 2008 Beijing Games,” writes Shinn.

McCorory may run across the world, but she calls Hampton her home.

Read more here.

Halima Leak Francis On Where Black Greeks Fit In The Social Justice Puzzle

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Halima Leak Francis, writing at HBCULifestyle.com, highlights three areas where Black Greeks can build on their contribution to social justice. See one of our favorite takeaways from her piece below. (You can also see me highlighted in the mass media area.)

On Black Greeks in the media.

“Major news organizations have proven to be in need of more thoughtful coverage of Black America. That is why it is imperative that we have our own voices in the media. Black Greeks play a role as curators of history inspired by how we are socialized to communicate the stories of our organizations.

Probably the most noted social justice voice is that of Roland Martin’s (Alpha Phi Alpha) who uses TV One (founded by Alpha Kappa Alpha member Cathy Hughes) as a platform to present a more robust picture of Black America to the public. Also in the thick of today’s social justice debates are Marc Lamont Hill (Kappa Alpha Psi) and Melissa Harris-Perry (Delta Sigma Theta) who provide scholarly perspectives on major news networks. There are also Black Greeks who are active members of the National Association of Black Journalists working to ensure that black journalists are heard in news rooms across the country.

Not to be ignored are the online voices. A big part of Black America’s story is HBCU media. HBCU Lifestyle co-founder Richard Gibson is a member of Phi Beta Sigma while HBCU Digest’s Jarrett Carter (Alpha), HBCUStory’s Crystal deGregory’s (Delta), and HBCU Buzz editor-in-chief Tommy Meade, Jr. (Iota Phi Theta) also serve as significant voices. Finally, two visible social justice contributors are Black Greeks Speak and D9 for Real Change.”

Francis also writes about education, philanthropy and other areas where Black Greeks are of use to Black America, head over to HBCU Lifestyle to read more here.

Halima Leak Francis, who contributes to HBCU Lifestyle, is a charitable giving professional and sociology instructor. She graduated from Hampton University where she was initiated into Zeta Phi Beta and Halima earned her master’s in Educational Sociology from New York University. She is currently a Ph.D. candidate at the NYU Steinhardt School of Education where her research focuses on organizational capacity building and fundraising.

FAMU Graduate To Address Differences In Approach To Activism In New Short Film

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Filmmaker Shayla Racquel has decided to spotlight a recently re-surfaced debate that has some African-American families at odds. Is there a right or wrong way to fight against injustice, or is it just a matter of opinion? Should Black Lives Matter shadow the strategy of the Civil Rights Movement activists? Shayla’s upcoming short film Riverment attempts to answer these questions.

The fictional film follows the relationship of a grandmother and granddaughter who are both passionate about civil rights, but differ in approach. “The film creates a huge dialogue between the two generations and uses the movement as its spine”, says Shayla. But beyond the plot, and through concluding arguments from both points of view the film aims to create solidarity resulting in a more forceful movement.

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The inspiration to place this conversation on film derived from the filmmaker’s grandmother. After protests ignited by the killing of Mike Brown in 2014, Shayla said her grandmother turned a side eye, leaving Shayla unsettled. “She turned the television off and became dismissive, which made me angry.” After digging deeper, Shayla discovered that her grandmother disagreed with the current generation’s idea of protest. To provide context, Shayla describes her grandparents as “racially aware” and credits them for teaching her the importance of black history.

The marriage of the two words River and Movement provides symbolism of a necessary constant flow.

So, the notion that her grandmother would be unsupportive of the current movement peaked Shayla’s interest in addressing the generational differences. “It made me want to compare and contrast the two very different generations and their approaches to a continuous fight,” says Shayla.

Similar to the film, the title Riverment has rooted meaning. “Just like the waters of a river, movements never stop moving,” is a beloved line from the short film. The marriage of the two words River and Movement provides symbolism of a necessary constant flow. Any movement seeking to make a difference, requires consistency, a key element to demolishing barriers. Riverment’s poster art and teaser all display elements of water and is a theme that is expected to continue throughout production.

One of Shayla’s greatest hopes for the films audience is that viewers will dismiss the belief that street protesting is the only method of activism. “There is no one way to be involved. There are different ways to be an activist. Protesting is not the only way,” proclaims Shayla. As long as there is a desire for change and knowledge to understand how to help, the filmmaker believes that activism can be accomplished in any place.

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Shayla Racquel is currently an American University graduate student and will complete Riverment as a thesis requirement. Upon completion, she will receive her Masters of Fine Arts in Film and Electronic Media.

Riverment is scheduled to begin filming in September 2016 with a release date of December 2016.

To support the film and to view more details, visit www.rivermentfilm.com.

Riverment Social Media

Twitter & Instagram: @Rivermentfilm
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rivermentfilm

The Hilltop’s Online Website Expected To Be Fully Operational By Fall 2016

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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The Hilltop‘s online website is expected to be fully operational on Wednesday, and just in time for the new academic year at Howard University in the nation’s capital.

The website has been down since July 27.

“…Howard University representatives promptly responded to our call and for now have agreed to create a landing page until we both work to ensure our website is both operable and fully functional come the August 17 proposed deadline of when we will be live,” said Paul Holston, the Editor-in-Chief of the Hilltop, to HBCU Buzz.

“For now, we continue to keep our audience informed through our social media websites, which include primarily our Twitter, but also Facebook, Instagram, Periscope, and Snapchat,” added Holston.

According to Holston, the website “randomly went down” on July 27 and both “the Hilltop leadership team and Hilltop advisors have yet to conclude the reasons why, as we have yet to receive any confirmed answers.”

In a statement, Holston, along with Howard student Almani Jackson, who serves as Business Manager of the Hilltop, officially announced on August 9 that the website is down:

“As of Wednesday, July 27, 2016, thehilltoponline.com, the online website of Howard University’s Student Newspaper, The Hilltop, randomly went down…

We have been working hard to ensure that our website will be back online and fully functional as soon as possible come Fall 2016 semester, but as the weeks have passed since July 27, it is with understanding that it is out of our control in determining the exact time of when we will have the website online again.

The Hilltop leadership team will continue to push Howard University representatives to ensure our website will be ready before the Fall 2016 semester begins. With this said, it is our responsibility to transparently inform all aspects of the Howard University community of where we stand today.

Until then, we will continue to inform our audience of the on- and off-campus news, happenings and events on our social media platforms with the intentions of our first print publication to be published on-campus Thursday, August 25, 2016. With what we can control, we will not stop doing our duties to continue to inform and be the student voice.”

Holston said that “We do not know the exact reasons to this day why it went inoperable and unfortunately, during that time we had no control over when we could get the website back up.”

“Once our website become live again, of course it will be our primary area to keep all those informed. The great thing about social media is that it remains a key tool for our publication to keep all those informed to the best of our abilities.”

The Hilltop‘s first print issue is scheduled for August 25.

FAMU Police Report Robbery Near Campus

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FAMU police are investigating a robbery that occurred near the intersection of Barbourville Drive and Martin Luther King Boulevard.

The FAMU police department told the FAMU community in a text alert sent out around 4 p.m. today, Monday, to be on the lookout “for a Gold Lexus SUV FL tag 505 ISY.”  

“1st (sic) male, thin build 150-160 lbs armed with a black handgun, unknown on the 2nd (sic). Any information please contact the FAMU PD.”

The story continues to develop.

Central State Welcomes Large New Class Of Freshmen

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It looks like the Class of 2020 will be deep this year on campus at historically black Central State University, and, not to be biased but, I’m here for it.

Founded in 1887 by historian Charles H. Wesley, the small school in Wilberforce is the most affordable public four-year college in the state of Ohio. Central has a rich history of traditions and academic success, and many students call the university, correctly, a home away from home. Of course, like the other 106 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the country, CSU is a safe haven for blacks to get a high-quality and affordable education.

(Fun fact: Wesley was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Sigma Pi Phi and a Prince Hall Freemason, among many other fraternal organizations. In 1929, he wrote The History of Alpha Phi Alpha.)

So, it’s no surprise that Central welcomed a large class on campus on Wednesday. “This year’s class looks to be one of the largest freshmen classes in recent history,” reported the Xenia Gazette, who noted that during Freshmen Move-In Day CSU staff and upperclassmen helped students move into the dorms. “Final numbers will be reported later this month. Returning students move in on Saturday, Aug. 13. Classes begin on Aug. 15.”

Hampton Alum Marion Christopher Barry Has Died At The Age Of 36

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Marion Christopher Barry, the son of late District of Columbia Mayor Marion Barry, died on Sunday at the age of 36.

The Hampton University alum passed away after a drug overdose, family members told News4’s Tom Sherwood. NBC Washington reported that Barry had struggled with drug use and unsuccessfully ran for a seat on the D.C. Council in a special election in 2015 after his father died.

Barry, who briefly attended Hampton, also briefly attended historically black University of the District of Columbia, but eventually dropped out.

D.C. Mayor Marion Barry with his wife Effi and son Christopher in 1982. (Getty images)

In a statement, Cora Masters Barry, wife of the former mayor, said that the sudden news of Barry’s death “has been devastating news to me” adding her “heart is broken. I am in shock. The news of his death is beyond comprehension.”

Former Stillman College Star Jeff Henderson Claims Gold Medal At Rio Olympics

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How does it feel to win the gold after all the work you had put in?

For former Stillman College standout Jeff Henderson, who, in his final jump, made an incredible comeback to win the gold in the men’s long jump on Saturday at the 2016 Olympics, it feels surreal. “I knew it,” Henderson said afterward, recalling what had happened when he finally landed after jumping over the moon and back. “I knew it was far. Okay, this is over. I knew I won the competition after that jump.”

According to the Washington Post’s Rick Maese, it’s the first gold medal for the U.S. in the event since 2004.

Writing in USA Today’s Sports section, Josh Peter notes that Henderson’s gold is the 999th in Olympic history for the USA. His final jump of 27 feet, 6 inches best Luvo Manyonga (27 feet and 5 1/2 inches) of South Africa by 1 centimeter.

Henderson dedicated the gold medal to his mother, “who who’s battling Alzheimer’s disease,” writes Maese. “She’s bed-ridden in Arkansas and communicates with her son mostly with her eyes.”

Image result for jeff henderson rio

After winning Olympic gold, Henderson said he will do what probably anyone would do in his position, that’s cry.

“When I place that medal in her hands, I’ll be crying,” Henderson said. “She’s still fighting; she’s still living. That’s the only thing that matters right now.”

More on HBCUBuzz.com: Meet Your New Favorite Rio 2016 Athletes From Black Colleges