HBCU launches “CU-Consent Understood” Initiative With State Funding to Promote Campus Safety 

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Cheyney University has received a significant boost in its efforts to combat sexual assault on campus, thanks to funding from Governor Josh Shapiro’s It’s On Us PA Grant Program. 

CU-Consent Understood

The university’s share of this $1.6 million statewide initiative will enable the launch of the “CU- Consent Understood” campaign. This program is designed to heighten awareness and education surrounding consent and campus safety. This crucial funding aligns with the ongoing commitment of Cheyney University to provide a safer and more supportive learning environment for all students.

“This grant reinforces our commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment for all members of the Cheyney family,” said Aaron A. Walton, president of Cheyney University. “We’re proud to be part of this important statewide effort and grateful for the resources to expand our programs and services.”

Under the CU-Consent Understood initiative, Cheyney University aims to enhance its Title IX programming and tackle issues related to sexual harassment and misconduct. Dr. Lakiyah Chambers, the university’s director of employee & labor relations, diversity, equity, and inclusion and interim Title IX coordinator, emphasized the importance of developing strategic partnerships with students, faculty, staff, and local organizations. These partnerships will be instrumental in creating data-informed practices that address the specific needs of the student body.

“We look forward to continuing to build on our efforts and addressing the negative effects of Title IX sexual harassment in order to enhance student success at Cheyney University,” Dr. Chambers stated.

Educating, Supporting and Partnering Up

The funding will facilitate several key initiatives within the CU-Consent Understood program, including:

  1. Expanding training sessions for students and staff on crucial topics such as consent and bystander intervention.
  2. Strengthening resources available for survivors of sexual misconduct and refining campus policies.
  3. Collaborating with local organizations to bolster prevention measures and awareness campaigns.

With this funding, Cheyney University reaffirms its dedication to fostering an inclusive community where all students can learn, grow, and thrive without the threat of violence or harassment. The institution thanks Governor Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Department of Education for supporting these vital efforts.

This article sources information from Cheyney University.

Morgan Price Makes History as First HBCU Gymnast to Score Perfect 10

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Morgan Price

Fisk University’s Morgan Price celebrated a historic achievement that has made waves in collegiate gymnastics. Price became the first gymnast from a Historically Black College and University to earn a perfect score on the Uneven Bars. This accomplishment highlights her extraordinary talent and is a significant milestone for HBCU athletics.

“Morgan’s perfect score is a testament to her rigorous training, determination, and flawless execution,” said Corrinne Tarver, head coach of the Fisk Gymnastics Team. “Achieving a perfect score in gymnastics requires a combination of technical precision, artistic expression, and unwavering focus. I am extremely proud of her. She continues to set the bar for our team.”

Breaking Team and Personal Records

To add to the excitement surrounding Price’s groundbreaking routine, the Fisk Gymnastics Team recorded its highest team score in school history, 193.650. 

The Bulldogs excelled across various events. On the floor exercise, junior Liberty Mora opened the rotation with a commendable score of 9.675. Sophomore Ciniah Rosby contributed a solid 9.6, while Jada Reese shined with a 9.7. Price rounded out her floor routine with a 9.8, which helped the team tie their season-high floor score of 48.350.

On the vault, freshman Kendall Guy impressed with a score of 9.475, junior Aliyah Reed-Hammon earned 9.625, junior Allie Berkley secured a 9.775, and Price anchored the vault rotation with a 9.85, contributing to the team’s total of 48.325 in this event.

The Uneven Bars was a standout event for Fisk, with Price’s remarkable perfect score stealing the show. Sophomore Sydney Smith led off the rotation with a solid 9.3, Berkeley added 9.225, senior Kiara Richman scored a 9.425, Rosby contributed 9.575, followed by Zyia Coleman’s 9.675 finish, pushing the Bulldogs to a total of 47.975 on the bars.

Lastly, on the balance beam, the Bulldogs scored 49.000. McDonald redeemed her earlier fall with a season-high score of 9.7, Berkeley scored a 9.575, Rosby a 9.75, Reed-Hammon a 9.8, Mora closed out the beam routine with a career-high 9.9, and Price secured a strong 9.85.

With this landmark achievement, Price has made history and inspired a new generation of gymnasts at HBCUs. As the Bulldog gymnastics program continues to flourish, they are proving that they can compete on the biggest stages.

This article sources information from Fisk University Athletics.

HBCU to Celebrate Black History Month with Hip-Hop Icon Pete Rock

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Pete Rock Tracklib Competition

Winston-Salem State University will honor Black history in an engaging way this February. The university will welcome renowned hip-hop artist and producer Pete Rock as the featured speaker for its annual Black History Month celebration. The event, “The Miseducation of…,” will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, in Dillard Auditorium on the WSSU campus.

Designed to align with the legacy of Carter G. Woodson, the founder of Black History Month, “The Miseducation of…” is an educational platform dedicated to exploring Black culture’s profound history and contributions. This year, the spotlight will shine on the influential role of Black music—specifically hip-hop—in shaping American history.

Pete Rock

A Hip-Hop Legend

Pete Rock, celebrated for his innovative approach to music production, will deliver a keynote address titled “The Miseducation of … Hip-Hop Music’s Contribution to American History.” Widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop producers of all time, Pete Rock made his mark in the early 1990s as one half of the critically acclaimed duo Pete Rock and CL Smooth. His pioneering fusion of jazz elements with hip-hop laid the groundwork for what is now known as jazz rap and forever altered the landscape of hip-hop music.

Pete Rock has collaborated with numerous artists, including Nas, De La Soul, and members of the Wu-Tang Clan. In recent years, he’s released collaborations such as “Don’t Smoke Rock” and “Retropolitan,” and he remains an influential figure in hip-hop. 

In addition to Rock’s keynote discussion, attendees can look forward to a dynamic panel featuring past participants of the “The Miseducation of…” series. This diverse panel will offer a variety of perspectives on the historical significance of Black music and culture, providing an enriching experience for all.

This event is part of a broader series of programs organized by the University Student Activities and Engagement throughout February in observance of Black History Month at WSSU. 

This article sources information from Winston-Salem State University.

Six Athletic Programs to Be Dropped at HBCU, Talladega College

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Talladega College, a historically Black institution in Alabama, has announced the discontinuation of several athletic programs due to financial challenges. The affected sports include men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s indoor track and field, men’s volleyball, and acrobatics and tumbling. 

This decision follows a series of financial difficulties for the college. Earlier in the year, Talladega College faced delays in meeting payroll and, in July, discontinued its gymnastics program after only one season to save money. 

Interim President Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough acknowledged the challenges, stating that while the decision to discontinue the gymnastics program was difficult, the institution remains proud of its athletes and their achievements. 

KyrstinHair1jpeg

Freshman Kyrstin Johnson secured a national title in April, but the program was discontinued over the summer. As a result, she transferred from the HBCU and now competes at Temple University.

The college’s leadership is actively working to address these financial issues. In a recent State of the College address, Dr. Kimbrough outlined plans to “course correct” the institution, including measures to reduce administrative costs and explore additional revenue streams. 

These developments highlight the broader financial challenges faced by small, private institutions, particularly historically Black colleges and universities, as they strive to balance fiscal responsibility with providing diverse athletic and academic opportunities for their students.

HBCU Student Earns Prestigious Honors in Classical Music

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Josiah Osula

Jackson State University sophomore Josiah Osula is making waves in the classical music scene. Recently, he earned two prominent honors that underscore his exceptional talent and dedication. The Dallas native was awarded the $1,500 James Miles Musical Innovation Grant from the Black Violin Foundation, Inc., and triumphed in the statewide Music Teachers National Association competition for string instruments.

James Miles Musical Innovation Grant

The James Miles Musical Innovation Grant specifically aims to support young musicians in their pursuit of musical education through various programs, including private lessons, summer music camps, or college courses. This funding will enable Osula to continue honing his craft this summer.

“It’s an honor to receive the award. The foundation’s work is essential in providing opportunities for young Black violinists and Black musicians in general to succeed,” said Osula, who is set to be inducted into BVF’s fifth class of Black Violin Youth. His achievement is part of BVF’s mission to empower youth musicians by expanding access to quality music programs that nurture creativity and innovation.

Osula first discovered his passion for the violin at age 11, inspired by his older brother’s performance on the viola. His compelling journey from a curious child to an accomplished musician has been marked by hard work and ambition. While attending Plano East High School in Texas, he successfully applied for the BVF grant, which provided him with funds for violin lessons. 

MTNA National Competition Victory

In November 2024, Osula showcased his skills at the MTNA National Competitions and emerged as the winner in the senior division for string instrumentalists representing Mississippi. The MTNA competitions are renowned across the nation for recognizing talented young artists while providing valuable educational experiences for both students and teachers.

“I felt accomplished,” Osula remarked. “I appreciate the MTNA for giving me the opportunity to compete. It was a great experience, and I hope to do it again.”

At JSU, Osula is not just an exemplary musician but also a computer engineering major with a minor in violin performance. LaTannia Ellerbe, D.M.A., assistant professor of strings at JSU, praised Osula’s contributions to the university, stating, “We’re lucky to have Josiah a part of Jackson State. He’s an excellent academic student and a wonderful musician, as demonstrated by these achievements. He could’ve been anywhere, but we’re proud he chose us.”

With his remarkable accomplishments thus far, there is no doubt that Osula is poised for a bright future in music and beyond. 

Southern University Human Jukebox to Perform at Super Bowl LIX

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Southern University‘s renowned “Human Jukebox” marching band is set to headline the Super Bowl LIX pregame show, marking their tenth appearance at the event. The announcement was made by band director Dr. Kedric Taylor during a performance on The Jennifer Hudson Show.

Dr. Taylor highlighted the significance of this opportunity for the students, emphasizing their resilience amidst challenges. He stated,

“This means so much to the students after all they’ve been through this year. The mental health challenges and still performing at a high level speaks volumes to their dedication and commitment to this band program.”

The “Human Jukebox” has a storied history of high-profile performances, including seven previous Super Bowl appearances and participation in three presidential inauguration parades. Their dynamic shows, featuring 300 student musicians and the “Fabulous Dancing Dolls,” have captivated audiences nationwide.

This year’s Super Bowl will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana, featuring a matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs.

The “Human Jukebox” continues to exemplify the excellence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), bringing their unique energy and cultural significance to one of the world’s largest stages.

Michael Vick Announces 30 Signees on National Signing Day at Norfolk State

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Norfolk State University’s head football coach, Michael Vick, has announced his inaugural recruiting class, signing 30 new players on National Signing Day. This group comprises 22 mid-year enrollees and eight high school seniors, aiming to strengthen the team’s roster across various positions.

“We are excited to welcome these 30 student-athletes to Norfolk State University,” Vick stated. “We believe that these young men will help build the foundation of Spartan football. I cannot wait to see what they will do in spring practice and during the fall season.”

Crop

The coaching staff placed a significant emphasis on in-state talent, signing 11 players from Virginia. They also effectively utilized the transfer portal, acquiring three players from Hampton University and one from William & Mary.

Notably, linebacker Jaden Kelly, an All-SWAC honoree from Arkansas Pine-Bluff, joins the Spartans after recording 91 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss last season. Additionally, quarterback Israel Carter transfers from the University of South Florida. A former three-star recruit ranked as the No. 19 quarterback nationally, Carter completed 11 of 14 passes with four touchdowns in limited action last season.

This diverse and talented group of recruits is poised to make a significant impact as Coach Vick begins his tenure at Norfolk State.

HBCU Unveils Newly Renovated Carver Instructional Site in Grand Ceremony

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Carver Grand Opening

On Thursday, Bishop State Community College proudly unveiled its newly renovated Carver Instructional Site. The college commemorated the milestone with a festive ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials, community members, students, faculty, and staff. The event showcased the college’s commitment to enriching the Mobile community through improved educational resources and facilities.

The extensive renovation, which totaled approximately $10.6 million, began with the project bidding process in September 2022 and construction starting in October of that year. Interior renovations were completed by April 2024, while work on the exterior facade continued until its completion in January 2025. The revamped Carver Instructional Site promises to provide students with state-of-the-art facilities conducive to learning and innovation.

“This campus has been a beacon of this community for well over 50 years,” said Olivier Charles, president of Bishop State Community College, during the ceremony. “The opportunity to restore it and put the right programs in place, not just for this community but for all of Mobile, is something that makes us proud as a college.”

Bishop State Carver Site culinary wing

The updated facility houses several academic programs, including welding, culinary arts, barbering and hairstyling, and adult education. Each program features cutting-edge amenities designed to bolster students’ educational experiences. Notably, the welding department now boasts 80 welding booths, with plans to expand to over 100. The Culinary Arts wing underwent a complete overhaul, introducing a baking lab, an a la carte kitchen, and a teaching kitchen to prepare students for real-world culinary challenges. The Adult Education department also received a complete renovation with modern classrooms, computer labs, and office spaces.

Student enthusiasm was palpable as they explored their new learning environment. “I feel so overwhelmed with excitement,” said Zoe Wilcox, a sophomore in the culinary arts program. “This is not just something for us culinary students. It also shows others who want to study culinary arts that Bishop State is the place to be.”

Welding freshman Malaishia Golston shared similar sentiments. “It’s more than I expected,” she said.

The Carver Instructional Site will continue its legacy as an education, training, and community engagement hub.

This article sources information from Bishop State Community College.

HBCU Alumnus Takes Center Stage as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Rashad Rayford

Rashad Rayford, an alumnus of Alabama A&M University, is poised to bring a historical icon to life as he takes on the role of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Katori Hall’s acclaimed play “The Mountaintop.” Set to run from Feb. 14 to 23 at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, the production offers a reimagining of Dr. King’s final night at the Lorraine Motel in 1968, before his assassination.

Rayford is a Nashville native who graduated from Alabama A&M in 2003 with a degree in industrial technology. He fondly remembers how his time on campus ignited his passion for performance. “My confidence and ability to communicate effectively were seeded at Alabama A&M University,” Rayford reflected. He attributes his growth in public speaking to various campus organizations such as The Poetry Club and the William Hooper Council Oratorical Society.

Through his involvement with Dramatic Expressions, AAMU’s campus acting group, Rayford developed a strong foundation in improvisation and theatrical performance. Since then, he has built a career that spans over twenty years, with credits including national commercials, independent films, and theater productions. His latest film, Clone Cops, recently premiered on Prime Video, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

Rashad Rayford

Rayford is not just an accomplished actor but also a keynote speaker, author, and poet. He founded Elevate Your Vibe, a company combining storytelling, business insights, and spoken word to assist organizations in refining their messaging. His storytelling prowess earned him national acclaim when he won the MOTH GrandSLAM Championship in 2019, captivating audiences with his performance piece “A Fish Out of Water.”

As Rayford prepares to step into the shoes of one of America’s most revered civil rights leaders, he carries the lessons learned and experiences from his time at AAMU.

HBCU Pledge Offers Guaranteed Admission and Tuition Freeze for In-State Students

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West Virginia State University

In a bold move to transform the landscape of higher education in West Virginia, West Virginia State University has unveiled the Yellow Jacket Pledge. The innovative program prioritizes access, affordability, and career readiness to ensure student success. The initiative was announced to the WVSU Board of Governors and will take effect in the fall 2025 semester.

“With The Yellow Jacket Pledge, West Virginia State University is setting the standard for access, affordability, and career readiness for higher education in West Virginia,” said WVSU President Ericke S. Cage. “We know that higher education must change to meet the demands of today’s workforce, and we are taking bold steps to address these demands head-on.”

Yellow Jacket Pledge Promises

The cornerstone of The Yellow Jacket Pledge is guaranteed admission for all West Virginia high school graduates who maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA. Additionally, students who have accumulated at least 30 credit hours from a West Virginia community or technical college with the same GPA or those who have obtained an associate’s degree from a West Virginia community college will also qualify for guaranteed admission. 

Furthermore, WVSU is freezing in-state tuition rates for incoming students for eight semesters, providing financial predictability during their academic journey. Room and board rates for students residing on campus will also remain unchanged for the upcoming academic year. WVSU will eliminate application fees to enhance affordability, removing another financial barrier for prospective students.

Recognizing the vital connection between education and career readiness, The Yellow Jacket Pledge also addresses post-graduation employment challenges. Graduates who find themselves unemployed one year after completing their degree will be eligible to take additional courses at WVSU at no extra cost for up to a year, allowing them to bolster their skills and increase their marketability.

In addition to these initiatives, WVSU is enhancing access to its Regents Bachelor of Arts degree program. The RBA is specifically tailored for non-traditional students who have been out of high school for at least four years. New RBA students will benefit from a complimentary first semester that covers tuition and fees.

“This comprehensive approach guarantees that West Virginia State University is with you every step of the way, from the classroom to your career success,” Cage added.

This article sources information from West Virginia State University.

Texas HBCU Names Former Tuskegee President as Interim Dean

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Texas Southern University has appointed Dr. Gilbert L. Rochon, former president of Tuskegee University, as the interim dean of the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs. Known for his dynamic leadership and extensive experience in academia, Dr. Rochon will step into this role on Feb. 10.

Gilbert Rochon

Dr. Rochon served as the sixth president of Tuskegee University from November 2010 to October 2013. In addition to his presidential duties, he was a university professor. He was also appointed by the Alabama governor to the Governor’s College & Career Ready Task Force, showcasing his commitment to enhancing educational standards in the region.

“Dr. Rochon brings more than 30 years of higher education and public administration experience to the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs,” said Dr. Carl B. Goodman, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at TSU. “Our School of Public Affairs is a national research and career preparation leader. We are pleased that Dr. Rochon will bring his research-driven leadership to assess and evaluate the school’s future direction while the University engages in a national search for a permanent Dean.”

Dr. Rochon’s robust background includes significant roles in both academic and governmental settings. Before his tenure at Tuskegee, he was the associate vice president for collaborative research and engagement at Purdue University for over eight years. His career includes time as a research community planner with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and 18 years as the Conrad Hilton endowed professor and director of the Urban Studies & Public Policy Institute at Dillard University.

Tuskegee to Texas Southern

“I am excited about the opportunity to lead the accomplished faculty and staff of the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs in this interim capacity,” said Dr. Rochon. “This school is known industry-wide, and throughout academia for the research these men and women do daily and for the opportunities it provides students to commence from their program prepared to thrive in their chosen field. I look forward to identifying ways to enhance the services we provide students to prepare them in an even more relevant way for the careers of their dreams.”

Dr. Rochon holds a Ph.D. in urban and regional planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Master of Public Health in health services administration from Yale University School of Medicine. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Xavier University of Louisiana and has held federal appointments with agencies including NASA, the Department of Defense, and the USDA Forest Service.

This article sources information from Texas Southern University.

Lane College Welcomes Stanley Conner as New Head Football Coach

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Stanley Conner

Lane College has officially appointed Stanley Conner as its new head football coach. With an impressive 30-year coaching career, Conner is poised to lead the team into a new era of competitiveness and success.

An official press conference held on Feb. 6 in Kirkendoll Hall introduced Conner to the Lane community, where he expressed his excitement about this new opportunity after eight impactful seasons as the running backs coach and recruiting coordinator at Miles College. There, he contributed to three SIAC Championships. 

His extensive coaching experience includes former head coaching roles at Benedict College and Concordia-Alabama and pivotal positions at Alabama A&M and Alabama State. He led those teams to numerous SWAC Eastern Division Championships. Conner’s deep connections within Southern football are bolstered by his background as a former player at Jackson State University.

“Stanley Conner is a proven winner, and his depth of experience will be an invaluable asset to our football program,” said Derrick Burroughs, director of athletics at Lane College. Burroughs expressed enthusiasm about Conner’s leadership style and commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field, aligning with the college’s mission to foster a disciplined and competitive environment.

Stanely Conner Press Release
From Left to Right: Dr. Donald Comer, Lane College President, Stanley Conner, Head Football Coach, Derrick Burroughs, Director of Athletics. (Courtesy of Lane College)

Elevating the Dragons

During the press conference, Conner shared his vision for the future of Lane College football. “I am excited for the opportunity to lead the Lane College football program. I look forward to building a winning culture and mentoring young men to succeed both on the field and in life,” he said.

Conner, his wife, and their two daughters are eager to immerse themselves in the Lane College community, signaling a fresh start for the football program. 

This article sources information from Lane College.

Travis Scott Opens Coachella Stage to HBCU Bands

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In an exciting invitation, Grammy-nominated artist Travis Scott took to social media recently to extend an opportunity to college bands, particularly those from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Scott tweeted that he’s looking for college bands to collaborate with him at the upcoming Coachella festival. 

Following the debut of his new single “4×4,” featuring performances from Prairie View A&M University’s Marching Storm band and a sample from Tennessee State University’s Aristocrat of Bands, Scott encouraged any HBCU or college band capable of taking on the song’s horn arrangement to showcase their talent. 

“Any hbcu or really any college with a band. Big or small. That stand to take on that horn arrangement from 4×4. I’m down to bring u with me to Coachella to do it with me. And posssibly figuring out a way to take care a semester cause college is hard. But music is fun. :)). Show me something,” the rapper said in his tweet. 

https://twitter.com/trvisXX/status/1887004484381106448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1887004484381106448%7Ctwgr%5E45932e1a60b32e574d286bd1fc5597b76cd211e9%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fpublish.twitter.com%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FtrvisXX%2Fstatus%2F1887004484381106448

This gesture could elevate the visibility of participating bands and enhance recruitment efforts for HBCUs seeking to attract more students passionate about music. The opportunity to perform at Coachella would also provide invaluable exposure for young musicians and promote the cultural significance of HBCU bands on a world-renowned platform. 

As buzz builds around the prospect of an HBCU band gracing the Coachella stage, students and faculty alike have eagerly responded to the tweet showcasing their skills and unique sounds. 

HBCU Alumna Named President of Business Operations for NBA G League Team

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Dr. China Jude

Dr. China Jude, an Alabama State University alumna, has been appointed president of business operations for the Motor City Cruise. MCC is the NBA G League affiliate of the Detroit Pistons.

“I am excited to work with the talented team of professionals at the Detroit Pistons and to help build the Motor City Cruise brand within the community,” said Dr. Jude.

Beginning her new role on Jan. 27, Jude will spearhead business strategies to enhance revenue opportunities and strengthen connections with ticketholders, fans, sponsors, and partners. 

“The city of Detroit is a fantastic sports city, and I look forward to identifying new ways in which the Motor City Cruise can build its fan base and carve its own niche in the broader sports landscape,” said Jude. “I look forward to advancing the club’s success and contributing to the larger picture in which this team supports the Detroit Pistons.”

A Proven Leader in Sports

Originally from Waukegan, Illinois, Jude came to Alabama State University on a volleyball scholarship. She quickly made her mark as a SWAC all-conference player. After obtaining a degree in broadcast journalism from ASU, Dr. Jude also served in the U.S. Naval Reserves and earned a Doctor of Education degree from Northcentral University.

Her impressive career spans over two decades across various high-profile sports organizations. Before joining the Motor City Cruise, Jude worked with organizations such as the Denver Broncos. She also held leadership positions at institutions, including the University of Wyoming, Queens College in New York, the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, and the University of the District of Columbia. Most recently, she served as an organizational strategist for USA Volleyball.

“We are pleased to welcome China to the organization, knowing her sports business experience and leadership will galvanize our Cruise business operations team and catalyze growth both on and off the court,” said Melanie Harris, president of Detroit Pistons business operations.

This article sources information from Alabama State University. 

HBCU Alumna Reyna Walters-Morgan Becomes Highest Ranking Black DNC Official

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Walters-Morgan secured 210 out of 409 votes during the DNC’s Winter Meeting held in Washington, D.C. Her election marks a pivotal moment for the organization and the broader movement for voter rights, which she has championed throughout her career.

Reyna Walters-Morgan
Photo Courtesy of Reyna for DNC Vice Chair

A proud North Carolina native and alumna of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Howard University School of Law, Walters-Morgan brings an extensive civic engagement and advocacy background. As a dedicated member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, she has long been at the forefront of the fight for voter protection and participation. Before her new role, she served as the DNC’s Civic Engagement and Voter Protection director, managing significant voter protection programs for the 2020 presidential election and the 2022 midterms.

Walters-Morgan’s transformative vision for her new position is critical as Democrats prepare for upcoming elections, particularly the 2025 Gubernatorial elections. Her strategy focuses on incorporating new technologies—like large language models and social media—to reach voters where they are most active. Additionally, she aims to rebuild national and state voter protection teams with year-round organizing efforts and enhanced partnerships beyond traditional frameworks.

Her election has garnered support from various DNC coalitions, including endorsements from the North Carolina DNC delegation and the High School Democrats of America.

As she steps into this influential role, Walters-Morgan is poised to impact the DNC’s voter engagement and protection approach profoundly. With her rich experience and clear vision, she is ready to lead Democrats toward electoral success and ensure democracy remains strong and accessible for all Americans. 

HBCU Receives $700K SMART Grant to Enhance Pedestrian Safety in Nashville

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Tennessee State University is poised to make significant strides in urban mobility research thanks to a recent grant announcement that has electrified the Nashville community. The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded a $10 million Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation Grant to the City of Nashville, which includes $700,000 earmarked for TSU’s College of Engineering. This funding aims to foster a partnership with Nashville’s Department of Transportation and WeGo Public Transit for research focused on enhancing pedestrian safety and reducing traffic fatalities.

A Tech-Savvy Approach

TSU master’s student Tupac Moseley, left, Atiqur Mallick and Dr. Kamrul Hasan, center, attend the NDOT event.
TSU master’s student Tupac Moseley, left, Atiqur Mallick and Dr. Kamrul Hasan, center, attend the NDOT event announcing the $10 million SMART Grant, which will support research on pedestrian safety and traffic fatality reduction. (Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University/Aaron Grayson)

The grant announcement took place at the Dr. Ernest Rip Patton, Jr. North Nashville Transit Center, where TSU students, faculty, and administrators gathered alongside Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell. Dr. Quincy Quick, associate vice president for Research and Sponsored Programs at TSU, highlighted how advanced tools like artificial intelligence and LiDAR technology will be pivotal to the project’s success.

“This project embodies one of the fundamental concepts and cores of research,” said Quick. “It will employ state-of-the-art technology and make a lasting impact on society.” TSU students will be able to engage directly with these technologies, allowing them to acquire hands-on experience while contributing to real-world solutions.

Under the guidance of Dr. Kamrul Hasan, assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, the initiative seeks to leverage data analytics and innovative technologies to cater to vulnerable road users. The project aligns with Nashville’s Vision Zero Action Plan, which aspires to eliminate traffic-related deaths and severe injuries through smart safety interventions along high-risk corridors.

A Team Effort

Graduate students Tupac Moseley and Atiqur Mallick will be integral to the project, bringing their expertise from their fields of computer science and computer information systems engineering. “We’re excited to see how the project grows and how our involvement—through real conversations with community members—helps improve safety,” Moseley shared. He added that he looks forward to building industry collaborations with other HBCUs.

Mallick emphasized the importance of applying the knowledge gained from this initiative to ensure that Nashville residents can navigate their streets safely. “We hope to apply what we learn from NDOT and TSU to ensure our state’s citizens can get home safely,” he stated.

This Phase 2 implementation follows a successful preliminary effort in 2023. With insights from this project, TSU aims to influence transportation policies and infrastructure development locally and potentially across the state.