HBCU Foundation to Invest $3.4M in Student Housing Renovations 

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The FSU Foundation, Inc., a public charity that supports Fayetteville State University, has announced a significant investment plan of over $3.4 million to renovate student housing along Murchison Road over the next five years. This initiative reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the Murchison corridor and driving community reinvestment efforts.

Ben Brown, chair of the FSU Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the project. “As an affiliate of the University, the FSU Foundation is here to support Fayetteville State University. We are pleased to work collaboratively with university leaders to show how the Foundation is partnering to provide improvements to the University Place Apartments. This is just the beginning,” said Brown.

As part of this investment, the University Place Apartments, situated directly across from the FSU campus, will undergo targeted internal and external renovations. 

FSU Chancellor Darrell T. Allison voiced his support for the foundation’s decision. “I am extremely pleased with our foundation’s decision to reinvest funds into our largest student housing facility, including renovations that impact FSU students and the transformation of Murchison Road,” said Allison.

This announcement follows the recent opening of a Chick-fil-A location in Bronco Midtown, further highlighting the University’s commitment to enhancing the campus and surrounding area. Chancellor Allison noted, “We are proud of what is happening at Bronco Midtown, and this continues our efforts in partnering with the City of Fayetteville and greater Cumberland community to uplift the image of Murchison Road along with our local officials.”

The FSU Foundation’s investment aligns with the Murchison Choice Neighborhood Initiative. The initiative seeks to revitalize and reinvest in the area, strengthening ties between the university and the Fayetteville community.

HBCU Empowers Students with Exclusive FBI Collegiate Academy Experience

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Tennessee State University recently hosted the FBI Collegiate Academy for the second consecutive year, offering students an exclusive opportunity to gain insight into federal careers and agency operations.

Agents lead a presentation
FBI personnel conduct a crime-scene investigation with TSU students.

Nearly 40 students from various disciplines participated in the academy. Students engaged in an immersive experience that covered essential FBI functions, including crime scene investigation, intelligence analysis, crisis negotiation, cyber and digital forensics, community awareness, and crisis management. The program culminated in workshops focused on resume-building and interview techniques, led by FBI experts. Each participant received a certificate of completion in recognition of their involvement.

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Since its inception in 2022, TSU has made history as Tennessee’s first institution to host the FBI Collegiate Academy. It highlights the dedicated partnership with the Bureau aimed at connecting students with career pathways in federal law enforcement.

Making An Impact

Kolby Jones, a criminal justice sophomore from Maryland, spoke about the value of the academy in fostering career readiness. “I can use my skill set, apply it, and excel,” said Jones, who aspires to join the SWAT team after graduation. “These new influences and partnerships are creating even more opportunities for HBCU students.”

Kolby Jones sports an FBI flak vest during an exercise at the Collegiate Academy event.
Kolby Jones sports an FBI flak vest during an exercise at the Collegiate Academy event.

The academy kicked off with welcoming remarks from Dr. Rodney Stanley, interim dean of the College of Public Service; Dr. Robbie K. Melton, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs; Dr. Kimberly Triplett, professor and coordinator of the Public Service Program; and Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI’s Tennessee office and Public Affairs Officer Elizabeth Clement Webb also addressed students.

Dr. Stanley highlighted the academy’s significance. “This program provides an invaluable chance for students interested in law enforcement careers to engage directly with active FBI agents who will be leading the sessions,” Stanley said.

He added that the FBI is keen to recruit graduates from diverse fields due to the increasing complexities associated with cybercrime, bioterrorism, money laundering, and other modern challenges. The current cohort demonstrated how majors such as urban studies, computer science, biology, and accounting play vital roles in combating crime today.

The FBI Collegiate Academy at TSU provided students with hands-on experiences, including interactive crime scene investigations and presentations from Crisis Negotiation and SWAT team members. 

Interested candidates can find current job openings listed on the FBI’s official website. 

Florida A&M Volleyball Captures Third SWAC Title in Four Years

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FAMU Volleyball players with championship rings

Florida A&M University volleyball team added another championship to its record by clinching the Southwestern Athletic Conference Volleyball Tournament title with a 3-1 victory over defending champions Jackson State on Sunday at Grambling State’s Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center. This triumph marks the Rattlers’ third title in the last four years, having previously secured the championship in 2021 and 2022.

The Rattlers showcased their dominance throughout the tournament, finishing with an impressive overall record of 27-6. FAMU’s head coach, Gokhan Yilmaz, who has led the program since 2018, achieved his third 20-win season this year. The team’s 27 victories set a new single-season record for Yilmaz, surpassing their 25-7 record from 2021.

Standout Performances

In the championship match, FAMU won the first two sets 25-23 before losing the third 8-25. However, the Rattlers rebounded strongly in the fourth set, sealing the match with a 25-15 win. Outside hitter Brooke Lynn Watts delivered a standout performance, finishing with double-digit kills and earning both the tournament MVP and All-Tournament honors—recognition shared with teammates Isis Williams and Makenzie Taylor.

FAMU’s path to the championship was paved by a perfect regular season in SWAC play, concluding with a 19-0 record against conference opponents. Their success included a flawless home record of 13-0 at the Al Lawson Center. Entering the postseason on a seven-match winning streak, the Rattlers proved they were ready for the challenge.

“Our preseason made us ready for conference this season,” said assistant coach Dominique Washington. “Those games prepared us for the conference..”

Representing the SWAC

The Rattlers will now represent the SWAC at the NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball Tournament, and the official bracket will be revealed on Dec. 1.

As the Rattlers celebrate their latest achievement, the team remains focused on what lies ahead. “We have to stick together as a team and work even harder,” libero Tinons Galmes emphasized. Florida A&M volleyball is poised to make a significant impact on the national stage. 

Prairie View A&M Breaks Up With Head Football Coach Bubba McDowell

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Prairie View A&M University has announced that head football coach Bubba McDowell’s contract will not be renewed following a three-year tenure with the Panthers. The decision comes after a challenging season that concluded with a disappointing 5-7 record.

Prairie View head coach Bubba McDowell against Alabama State during their game on Saturday September 24, 2022. Asup48 / Mickey Welsh / Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK
Prairie View head coach Bubba McDowell against Alabama State during their game on Saturday . 24, 2022. Asup48 / Mickey Welsh / Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK

McDowell, 58 is former All-Pro safety in the NFL.  He played for the Houston Oilers and the Carolina Panthers from 1989 to 1995. McDowell succeeded Eric Dooley as head of the PVAMU football program in 2022. Additionally, he was part of the University of Miami team that won the national championship in 1987. Under his leadership, the Panthers achieved back-to-back Southwestern Athletic Conference West Division titles. However, the recent downturn in performance is ultimately suspected to have led to the university’s decision.

Athletic Director Anton Goff expressed gratitude for McDowell’s contributions to the program, highlighting his dedication to mentoring student-athletes. “Coach McDowell’s commitment to helping our student-athletes succeed in life both personally and professionally is admirable and a true reflection of his character,” Goff said in a statement.

In light of the recent changes, Goff indicated that the university will initiate a national search for McDowell’s successor immediately. The goal is to find a candidate with the vision and leadership skills necessary to elevate the program within both SWAC and FCS football ranks.

As the Panthers begin this new chapter, assistant head coach Ashton Green will step in as interim head coach while the search for a permanent replacement unfolds. 

Job Cuts at HBCU: Sacrifice Made Ahead of Accreditation Review 

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Saint Augustine's University in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Saint Augustine’s University is proactively steering its course toward financial stability as it approaches a critical accreditation meeting with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges in December. As part of its efforts to enhance fiscal responsibility, the university plans to eliminate several positions this month, affecting both part-time and full-time non-faculty employees and some vacant positions. 

“As stewards of this institution, our focus is on its long-term sustainability through shared governance,” said Hadley Evans, Jr., vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees and Chair of the Finance Committee. “While we recognize the seriousness of these financial adjustments, these decisions are essential for safeguarding the future of Saint Augustine’s University and the students we serve.”

Last December, SACSCOC voted to remove SAU from membership after two years of warnings concerning its financial status. Following the denial of their appeal in February, the SACSCOC arbitration committee reversed its decision in July, reinstating SAU’s accreditation but placing it on probation. A team from SACSCOC visited the university last month for a follow-up, and the board will vote on the next steps regarding SAU in December.

“The momentum we are building is promising,” said Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “While difficult, we acknowledge the seriousness of our financial challenges, and these measures are crucial for our long-term sustainability. We are committed to transforming SAU into a financially stable institution that prioritizes the success of our students and stakeholders. Our ongoing efforts to stabilize the financial condition of Saint Augustine’s University are now showing tangible results—our community is responding positively, and we are excited about our future. Together, we will work diligently to rebuild our foundation.”

Proactive Steps Towards Accreditation Standards

In a comprehensive strategy to ensure compliance with SACSCOC and secure its accreditation, SAU has reduced expenses by approximately $17 million for fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023. The significant reductions involved difficult decisions, including a 41% reduction in full-time faculty, a 67% reduction in adjunct faculty, and a 57% reduction among adjunct faculty. Additionally, the university has discontinued several under-enrolled programs and is actively settling outstanding balances with vendors to restore financial integrity and ensure sustainable operations.

SAU has reported several significant milestones towards enhancing financial stability and demonstrating compliance with accreditation standards, including:

  • Completion of four financial audits for fiscal years 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
  • Securing a critical agreement with Gothic Ventures to ensure operational continuity for the 2024-2025 academic year.
  • Restoration of employee payroll and health insurance benefits.
  • Implementing a comprehensive cost optimization strategy alongside a robust financial sustainability plan.
  • Strengthening oversight regarding essential financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
  • The dismissal of the SAVE SAU Coalition lawsuit against the board of trustees.

Despite recent challenges, SAU reports support from alumni, with contributions holding steady over the past three years. Additionally, the university has received over 700 enrollment applications for Fall 2025.

Sale Falls Through: Miles College Continues Pursuit of Birmingham-Southern Campus

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Despite a recent negotiation setback, Miles College President Bobbie Knight expressed her determination to acquire the now-closed Birmingham-Southern College campus. Knight shared her disappointment with AL.com after the college’s request for a second extension on its purchase agreement was denied.

The 192-acre Birmingham property was placed back on the market on Nov. 25, following the expiration of a purchase agreement originally signed two months earlier. Initially set to close on Oct. 25, Miles College had sought an extension to both Nov. 25 and a further extension to Dec. 25. However, the Birmingham-Southern College Board of Trustees turned down the latest request.

“We are not going to stop trying,” Knight stated. “I’m feeling fine. Just have more work to do.” 

In a press release, BSC trustees acknowledged their respect for Miles College and its community but stressed the urgency of selling the campus to fulfill obligations to creditors. “To meet its commitments to lenders and other creditors, the BSC Board of Trustees is obligated to sell the 192-acre campus property as quickly as possible,” the statement read.

Birmingham-Southern’s financial struggles have been well documented, culminating in the decision to cease operations in March 2024 after failing to secure a $30 million bridge loan from the state legislature. 

With the expiration of the purchase agreement, it remains uncertain if Alabama A&M University, which previously submitted bids for the campus, will re-enter the bidding process. Earlier this year, Alabama A&M proposed a $52 million offer, later raising its offer to $65.5 million. However, those proposals were ultimately rejected due to being deemed “considerably lower” than competing bids.

HBCU Sports Spotlight: Janaya Spivey, Mississippi Valley State University

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Meet Janaya Spivey, the head coach of the Mississippi Valley State University Cheerleading team, who is making waves in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Born in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Spivey discovered her passion for cheerleading at a young age and has dedicated herself to the sport ever since.

“I have been a cheerleader since kindergarten,” said Spivey.

While cheering for her junior high team, her mother helped take her skills to the next level by enrolling her in tumbling classes. After graduating from Newton High School in Newton, Mississippi, Spivey chose to attend MVSU, where she initially pursued cheerleading and track and field. However, her love for cheerleading shone through, and during her freshman year, she decided to focus solely on cheer. Over the next four years, she became a staple of the Delta Devils cheer program, leading the team as lead captain from 2020 to 2021. She graduated in 2022 with a degree in Biology.

Cheerleader to Head Cheer Coach

In the summer of 2023, Spivey took on the challenge of becoming the head coach for the MVSU Cheerleading team. Although she was an experienced cheerleader, stepping into a coaching role presented new challenges. “I knew plenty about cheer but nothing about coaching, budgets, and paperwork,” Spivey explained. Fortunately, she found guidance and support from her former coaches and the athletic staff, which helped ease her transition into this leadership position.

Tumbling Over Hurdles

Spivey is no stranger to the obstacles faced by athletic programs. She recognizes the struggles of recruiting and retaining committed athletes, sometimes without the availability of scholarships or other incentives. Yet, she remains undeterred, driven by her mission to instill teamwork, discipline, and school spirit within her team.

A Proud Moment

One of Spivey’s proudest moments as a coach came on Senior Day when she watched her first set of seniors walk the field and then graduate. This milestone not only highlighted her impact on her athletes’ lives but also reinforced her commitment to their success beyond cheerleading.

Throughout her journey, Spivey has been inspired by her faith and often reflects on the powerful message from Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This mantra speaks to the greater purpose behind her work and the positive impact she aims to have on her athletes.

Looking Ahead

As a coach at an HBCU, Spivey embraces the diverse styles of cheerleading she’s encountered throughout her career, fostering an open-minded coaching philosophy that values each athlete’s unique contributions. Looking to the future, she is committed to elevating the cheerleading program at MVSU by enhancing resources and focusing on recruitment efforts to make it a standout feature of MVSU Athletics.

Spivey offers this invaluable advice to aspiring cheerleaders and coaches: “Always remember why you fell in love with your sport.” With her passion fueling her journey, Janaya Spivey will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift the next generation of cheerleaders at Mississippi Valley State University.

Foundation Establishes XULA PreMed Scholarship Fund with $125K Donation

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The FBR Foundation has made a significant impact on the future of aspiring medical professionals by donating $125,000 to create the Fred Renwick Endowed Scholarship for PreMed Students at Xavier University of Louisiana. This generous endowment honors the legacy of Dr. Fred Blackwell Renwick, a distinguished educator and advocate for student success.

Honoring Dr. Fred Blackwell Renwick

Fred Renwick
Fred Renwick

Dr. Renwick, who passed away in 2014, had a notable career as a Professor Emeritus at New York University’s Leonard Stern School of Business, where he taught from 1965 until his retirement in 2001. A Morehouse College alumnus, he also held degrees from Harvard University and NYU and received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Morehouse in 2007. His wealth of knowledge and experience spanned various fields, including defense and space exploration, alongside his prolific writing career.

In honoring Dr. Renwick’s parents’ aspirations for him to pursue medicine, the FBR Foundation established this scholarship fund to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in pre-medicine programs at Xavier University. The fund will specifically benefit juniors and seniors who have declared their intent to pursue medical school.

“We sincerely appreciate the financial support of the FBR Foundation to assist our premedical students in realizing their dreams of becoming physicians,” said Reynold Verret, President of Xavier University of Louisiana. ” It is beautiful that the foundation commits to our student success with this generous gift. We are indeed proud of our premedical program and its contribution to equitable healthcare throughout the decades.”

Support for Future Medical Professionals

Xavier University boasts a strong track record in preparing African American students for medical school. Over the past two decades, 803 Xavier graduates have earned medical degrees in the United States. A recent Association of American Medical Colleges report highlighted Xavier’s position as one of the leading institutions for producing African American physicians.

“The fact that so many students from Xavier continue on to medical school or become part of the healthcare system and work in the field of medicine is in line with our decision to support education opportunities in healthcare where African American physicians are underrepresented,” said Lynne Mueller, President of The FBR Foundation. “This Scholarship is an appropriate way to honor Dr. Renwick, who always had a great affinity for his students; we want to do our best to honor Fred’s legacy.”

The Fred Renwick Endowed Scholarship for PreMed Students will be awarded annually in the spring semester. The premedical office will select the recipient based on eligibility criteria. 

N.C. A&T Calls for Nominations for 2025 Human Rights Medal

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NCAT Human Rights Medal

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is now accepting nominations for the prestigious 2025 Human Rights Medal. Submissions are due by Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. This esteemed award honors individuals who have made significant long-term contributions to the advancement of civil rights, civil liberties, and human rights.

The Human Rights Medal is named in recognition of the heroic actions of the A&T Four—Ezell Blair Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), Franklin Eugene McCain, Joseph Alfred McNeil, and David Richmond Jr.—who sparked a transformative movement in American history. On Feb. 1, 1960, these courageous freshmen initiated a sit-in at a segregated lunch counter at Woolworth’s in Greensboro, igniting protests and inspiring activists across the nation.

N.C. A&T emphasizes that nominees can come from beyond the university community, provided they are U.S. citizens. The candidates will be evaluated based on their impactful actions, the needs they address, and the breadth of their contributions to their communities, whether at the local, state, national, or international level.

Notable past recipients of the medal include N.C. Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls, the late civil rights icon Congressman John Lewis, and activists Rev. Nelson and Joyce Johnson, along with Congresswoman Alma Adams ’68 ’72.

The selected honoree will be notified in December and invited to receive the award during the annual Sit-In Breakfast program. The recipient must be available to accept the award in person on campus or virtually if preferred on Jan. 31, 2025 .

For those interested in submitting a nomination, access the nomination packet here.

HBCU Secures $750K for Vital Restoration of Historic House

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Hope House DSU Downtown

Delaware State University is set to embark on an exciting preservation project with the recent awarding of a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service, part of the Department of the Interior. The funding will be used to repair and rehabilitate the Hope House, a historic building over 139 years old located on the DSU Downtown campus.

The grant is part of a broader initiative, allocating $10 million to several historically Black colleges and universities nationwide to protect and preserve their historic properties. Dr. Eleanor Kiesel, senior associate dean of the DSU Wesley College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, played a pivotal role in securing this grant through diligent research and proposal writing. The grant was awarded in July 2024, and work will commence soon.

About the Historic Hope House

Constructed initially before 1885 and showcasing Queen Anne architectural features, the Hope House is a notable structure and a crucial hub for student programming and social services at DSU. It offers counseling services, self-care activities, and cultural connections and will engage the local community in initiatives.

“We are honored to be given this opportunity to provide programming and supportive social services to our students in this home that was originally owned by former slave owners,” Dr. Kiesel remarked.

The funding will address critical issues such as exterior and interior repairs, water damage, and mold remediation in the three-story frame building. This rehabilitation marks Phase I of an extensive project revitalizing the historic property acquired during its purchase of the former Wesley College in 2021.

The establishment of Hope House aligns with DSU’s broader Safe Space Coalition initiative, aimed at enhancing intervention and prevention services related to sexual assault and other safety concerns on campus. Led by Dr. Gwendolyn Scott Jones, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, this coalition works to assess and improve the university’s safety protocols, policies, and response services regarding sexual assaults, domestic violence, bullying, mental health, and more.

WSSU Alumni Raise Nearly $300K in Donations During Homecoming   

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WVSU Homecoming check presentation

Winston-Salem State University alums showed remarkable generosity during its homecoming celebration. During the festive weekend, the university proudly announced a stunning total of $287,963.97 raised by its alumni.

The highlight of the homecoming festivities came during Founder’s Day Convocation, when Reggie McCaskill, president of the Winston-Salem State University National Alumni Association, presented Chancellor Bonita Brown with a check for $100,000. This substantial contribution is earmarked to bolster student scholarships.

Class Reunion Donations

Notably, various reunion classes banded together to contribute significantly to their alma mater:

-Class of 1999 (25th Reunion): $13,494 to support the Red Sea of Sound marching band

-Class of 1989 (35th Reunion): $23,913 to enhance WSSU programs

-Class of 1974 (50th Reunion): $74,000 dedicated to student scholarships

-Class of 1984 (40th Reunion): $40,200 allocated for student scholarships

-1999 CIAA Championship Football Team: $36,357 to support the football program

A Full Circle Moment

Thesha Woodley is the director of alumni engagement at WSSU. She explained that reunion classes come together to campaign throughout the year, and the Office of Alumni Engagement provides guidance on effective fundraising strategies. This year held special significance for Woodley, whose father, Theophilus Woodley, was part of the Class of 1974. “It was definitely a full circle moment – this being a milestone year for him and me being in this role,” she reflected.

Woodley shared how her father’s class instilled in her the values of being a Ram and the importance of alum contributions. Their generous donations helped fund her education, allowing her to graduate without student loan debt. “This year’s contributions will have a profound impact on the lives of our students just like it had on mine,” she remarked, expressing hope that more alumni are inspired to give back to their university.

Chancellor Bonita Brown expressed her gratitude: “On behalf of our students, faculty, and staff, I extend my deepest gratitude to our alumni community. The generosity of our alumni reflects the unwavering dedication of our graduates to ensure a bright future for our university and its students.”

HBCU Weekly Football Scoreboard: Week 13

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Alabama A&M v. MVSU

Welcome to this week’s HBCU Buzz Football Scoreboard. Our HBCU teams battle it out each week, showcasing their talent, grit, and school spirit. Whether it’s a nail-biting finish or a blowout victory, we’ve got you covered with the final scores.

Miles Golden Bears 14, Carson-Newman Eagles 13

UAlbany Great Danes 41, Hampton Pirates 34

Elon Phoenix 31, N.C. A&T Aggies 21

Alabama A&M Bulldogs 49, Mississippi Val. Delta Devils 35

N.C. Central Eagles 52, Delaware St. Hornets 10

Morgan St. Bears 35, Howard Bison 21 

Virginia Union Panthers 34, Wingate Bulldogs 31

South Carolina St. Bulldogs 53, Norfolk St. Spartans 21

Texas Southern Tigers 31, Ark.-Pine Bluff Golden Lions 23

Jackson St. Tigers 48, Alcorn Braves 10

Alabama St. Hornets 9, Prairie View Panthers 6

Florida A&M Rattlers 41, Bethune-Cookman Wildcats 38

Tennessee St. Tigers 28, Southeast Mo. St. Redhawks 21

HBCU Board Member Inducted into Prestigious Morehouse Board of Preachers

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Presiding Elder Elizabeth E. Yates

Edward Waters University proudly announces the induction of Presiding Elder Elizabeth E. Yates into the esteemed Morehouse Board of Preachers. The official ceremony occurred this spring at the International Chapel of Morehouse College in Atlanta.

Presiding Elder Yates was honored during the 38th annual Martin Luther King Jr. College of Ministers & Laity induction ceremony. The event, which was themed “Saving Democracy While Thriving in the Wake of Cosmic Trauma,” Celebrated her exemplary contributions to spiritual leadership and community service. Professor Gary John Dorrien delivered the keynote address.

A Committed Leader

As a prominent figure in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Presiding Elder Yates has continually demonstrated a commitment to the spiritual and ethical ideals championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the legacy of Morehouse College alums. The Morehouse Board of Preachers honors clergy, laypersons, and administrators who exemplify these values through their actions and outreach.

The International Chapel at Morehouse College, where the induction was held, serves as a beacon for the institution’s dedication to spirituality, cooperation, and justice. This annual ceremony fosters dialogue that encourages meaningful exchanges among diverse groups.

Nominations for this prestigious recognition come from faculty, staff, alumni, and community leaders. The Dean of the Chapel carefully reviews each submission to ensure that inductees reflect the institution’s core values.

Presiding Elder Yates’ contributions extend far beyond her role at Edward Waters University. She is an active member of various community organizations that promote education and social justice. She also mentors young clergy and advocates for equitable access to higher education, particularly in underserved communities.

Dr. A. Zachary Faison, President and CEO of Edward Waters University, expressed his pride in Yates’ induction, stating, “We are immensely proud of Presiding Elder Yates’ induction into the Morehouse Board of Preachers. Her spiritual leadership and commitment to student success embody the core values of EWU. This recognition highlights the caliber of leaders serving on our Board of Trustees and their impact beyond our institution.”

For those interested in experiencing the induction ceremony, a recording is available on the Morehouse College YouTube Channel. 

Stacey Abrams Engages Howard Students in Post-Election Discussion

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Stacey Abrams at Howard

On Nov. 20, Stacey Abrams, Howard University’s inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics, captivated an audience of students in Douglass Hall with a post-election dialogue centered on the future of political engagement following the 2024 presidential election.

Conversations That Matter

Abrams, known for her tireless advocacy and political acumen, encouraged students to process their feelings about the recent election while contemplating their roles in shaping U.S. democracy. “I am someone who believes in this country’s capacity for more, even though we’ve had some trouble manifesting what it should be,” she remarked. “The conversation I wanted to invite today is really about not just what happened with the election…but I also want to talk about what our opportunities are, what are our obligations, and what our presence in this country requires of us.”

During the event, student inquiries ranged from the impact of misinformation in politics to discussions on secularism and its implications for governance. Abrams warned against the rise of religious nationalism, highlighting attempts to intertwine Christianity with state identity. “It’s the intent to shift America from its constitutional responsibility of not having established religion to not only making Christianity the central pillar [of American government], but make evangelical Christianity the metric for which everything is judged,” she explained.

Addressing issues particularly relevant to Black women, Abrams acknowledged the emotional toll of political engagement and the exhaustion felt by those who supported Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign. “You can tag out for a minute, but you’re not allowed to leave the arena,” Abrams urged, emphasizing the necessity of solidarity within marginalized groups.

Sticking Together and Being Proactive

She also emphasized the importance of coalition-building and understanding shared objectives while respecting individual experiences, stating, “ Our conversation has to be that shared destiny requires shared investment.” 

Concluding her talk, Abrams inspired students to take action: “Your obligation after you leave this room is to pick one thing and spend the next year talking about it, writing a blog, doing a YouTube channel.  Your second job is to find an organization – big, small, be it virtual or in person – you need to commit an hour doing something for that organization. The third thing…is start going to city council meetings and county commission meetings.”

HBCU Launches First Accredited MSW Program in Trauma-Informed Care 

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Virginia State University proudly announces a historic milestone for its academic community: the Master of Social Work program received full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. This remarkable achievement positions VSU as the first Historically Black College or University in the nation to offer a CSWE-accredited MSW program that specializes in trauma-informed care.

The accreditation, which is effective retroactively from Fall 2022  will remain valid through 2032, with the possibility for extension.

“This accreditation from the CSWE is a tremendous honor and a ground-breaking achievement for Virginia State University,” said Dr. Jimmie Fedrick, chair of the Department of Social Work. “IIt affirms that our students are earning an education that meets the highest standards. Upon graduating, they will emerge as innovative, connected, global leaders, fully prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.”

The MSW program at VSU, which welcomed its inaugural cohort of 10 students just over two years ago, has experienced significant growth. Currently, it enrolls 68 active students, and it projects to reach 100 students by the Summer and Spring of 2025.

The value of obtaining an MSW degree is underscored by its promising career prospects. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for MSW graduates in Virginia stands at $78,213, reflecting the demand for skilled professionals in the field.

VSU’s Master of Social Work program is distinguished by its focus on trauma-informed care, preparing graduates to effectively address the well-being of individuals who have experienced trauma. The program is commits to promoting human rights and social justice through community engagement, advocacy, and collaborative scientific inquiry that influences professional practice both locally and globally.

Prospective students can learn more about this program here. 

SWAC Investigating Jackson State’s Alleged Access to UAPB Practice Film

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jackson state vs uapb

The Southwestern Athletic Conference has announced the initiation of an investigation regarding allegations that Jackson State University had access to practice film from the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff before their matchup on Nov. 2. ESPN reported the revelation, which highlights serious concerns within the conference about competitive integrity.

How the Investigation Unfolded

The allegations surfaced on Oct. 31, just two days before the game. A UAPB player informed their coaching staff that a Jackson State player had told them that members of the JSU football team were watching UAPB’s practice footage at their facility. 

UAPB head coach Alonzo Hampton reviewed the team’s video-sharing software once he received this information. He discovered that footage had been accessed using the credentials of a former player who had been released from the team in the previous spring.

Sources indicate that the IP address linked to the unauthorized access was traced back to Clinton, Mississippi, neighboring Jackson.

While UAPB officials recognized the ongoing investigation, they refrained from public comments. The Jackson State athletic department also remained silent on the matter.

A Gray Area

The former walk-on whose account was implicated in this incident denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he did not share his login credentials with anyone associated with Jackson State. He expressed concern over his previous sharing of access information with UAPB teammates, suggesting a “loose culture” surrounding credential security within the team.

Notably, despite the serious nature of the allegations, it remains unclear how UAPB continued to provide access to accounts after players were released from the team.

Jackson State, who has had a strong season standing at 9-2 with a perfect 7-0 record in the SWAC, is bracing for the implications of this investigation as it prepares for the upcoming SWAC championship game following their recent victory over Alabama State. This situation unfolded against heightened tensions following a postgame altercation, resulting in significant fines and suspensions for both teams.