AAMU’s Carson Vinson Becomes First HBCU Player Invited to 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl

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Carson Vinson

Alabama A&M’s senior offensive tackle Carson Vinson was officially invited to participate in the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl. This announcement occurred Thursday morning following the Alabama A&M Bulldogs’ practice at Louis Crews Stadium.

Vinson, a standout left tackle from Morrisville, N.C., becomes the first player from an HBCU to receive an invitation to this prestigious event, which showcases the top college football talent in front of NFL scouts and executives. Former AAMU standout and Pro Football Hall of Famer John Stallworth, alongside Jim Nagy, the executive director of the Reese’s Senior Bowl presented Vinson with the invitation.

This recognition marks a significant milestone for the Bulldogs’ football program. Vinson is the first Senior Bowl invitee in over two decades. Kendrick Rogers was the last player invited back in 2001. Vinson joins an elite group as only the third Bulldog in the program’s history to receive the honor.

True to Alabama A&M’s Slogan

Reflecting on his journey, Vinson expressed pride in this accomplishment and emphasized its importance for the future of Alabama A&M football. “A&M’s slogan is “Start Here, Go Anywhere,” and that reigns true. It always reigns true,” he stated. “I’ve always been told that the [NFL], wherever you are, they’ll find you. I just want to show my teammates that if you work hard and you put in the work, they’ll find you. And you can have all your dreams here.”

John Stallworth echoed Vinson’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of the Senior Bowl in shaping careers. “I am excited about the opportunity it presents for (Vinson) now to do that same thing,” said Stallworth. “To go down and show his wares on a national stage.”

The 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl is set to take place on Feb. 1, 2025, at Hancock-Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. Vinson’s historical invitation not only shines a spotlight on his personal achievements but also raises the profile of HBCU athletes in college football.

Parents of Tuskegee Shooting Victim File Lawsuit Against University and Security Firms

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The tragic aftermath of a mass shooting during Homecoming weekend at Tuskegee University continues to unfold, as the parents of La’Tavion Johnson, the 18-year-old who was killed in the incident, have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the university. 

The lawsuit is not only directed at Tuskegee University but also targets two security companies, International Protection Investigation Agency LLC and JLL Americas Inc., along with former Tuskegee University Police Chief Terrance Calloway and a man who has been arrested, according to a report by WSFA news. 

The violence erupted on campus, resulting in La’Tavion’s death and injuries to 16 others. To date, the only arrests made are for charges related to illegal machine gun conversion devices, which do not pertain to the actual act of shooting. 

In the lawsuit, the Johnsons claim that Myrick, who claims he fired his gun but did not hit anyone, is responsible for their son’s death.

A significant point raised in the lawsuit highlights alleged negligence on the part of Chief Calloway, who reportedly had prior knowledge of multiple violent incidents on campus, including previous gun discharges and threats. Calloway was subsequently terminated from his position following the tragic events of that night.

HBCU Honoring Distinguished Agriculture Leader with Center Naming

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Dr. Jesse Harness Sr.

Alcorn State University will honor one of its distinguished alums, Dr. Jesse Harness Sr., by naming its Agriculture and Extension Center after him in a ceremony scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22, at 10 a.m. The event will take place on the university’s Lorman campus and celebrate Dr. Harness’s remarkable contributions to agricultural education and community development.

Dr. Harness, an Alcorn State University’s Class of 1967 graduate, has dedicated over three decades to improving agricultural practices and enhancing community engagement throughout Mississippi. He was born in Magnolia, Mississippi, and began his career as a county agent with Mississippi State University after graduating. His journey brought him back to Alcorn, where he held various roles, including horticulture specialist, coordinator for Civil Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity, associate division director for administration, and administrator for the university’s Cooperative Extension Program.

“It gives me great pleasure to honor Dr. Jesse Harness, Sr., for his many contributions to the field of agriculture,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president of Alcorn State University. “He has been a transformative leader who has made a significant impact within Mississippi and beyond through agricultural education and community advancement.”

A Lifelong Impact

Dr. Harness has accumulated numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career, highlighting his exceptional dedication and service. He was inducted into the George Washington Carver Hall of Fame in 2005, recognized in the Alcorn State University Hall of Honors in 2011, and received the prestigious 1890 University Career Exemplar Award in 2015.

Dr. Harness’s influence extends beyond the local community. As chairman of the National Commission on Small Farms, he has actively participated in national agricultural discussions and served on various advisory committees focused on agricultural development and rural communities.

Academically, Dr. Harness holds a Bachelor of Science in agriculture education from Alcorn State University, a Master of Arts in vegetable crops and extension education from the University of Florida, and a Doctor of Philosophy in horticulture and extension education from Louisiana State University. Additionally, he possesses a vocational agriculture teaching certificate and a certification of completion in Civil Rights and EEO training.

Beyond his professional commitments, Dr. Harness has demonstrated a steadfast devotion to community service, taking on leadership roles in numerous civic, social, and religious organizations. His contributions include serving as president of the Jefferson County School Board and president of the Alcorn State University Jefferson County Alumni Chapter.

Manhattan University to Host the HBCU Harlem Renaissance

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This Saturday, the vibrant spirit of Historically Black Colleges and Universities will be alive at Manhattan University as they host the 4th Annual Harlem Renaissance Classic. The event, set to take place at Draddy Gymnasium in Riverdale, promises an exciting day filled with basketball, educational opportunities, and cultural celebrations for alumni and future HBCU graduates residing in the New York tri-state area.

The classic will feature thrilling matchups between the men’s basketball teams of Division II Clark Atlanta University and Lincoln University. The day kicks off at 1 p.m. when Clark Atlanta takes on Philadelphia’s Holy Family University, followed by Lincoln University’s game against Molloy University from Rockville Centre, Long Island, at 3 p.m. Fans can arrive early, as doors to Draddy Gymnasium will open at noon.

While the games form the centerpiece of this much-anticipated event, attendees can expect a robust lineup of activities organized by Manhattan University’s Black Student Union. The event will offer a variety of educational, health, musical, and social engagements designed to enrich the experience for all participants. This includes college recruitment sessions, discussions on scholarship opportunities, tutoring services, and representatives from Divine Nine Greek organizations. Additionally, attendees can participate in interactive games, receive mental health counseling, and enjoy performances by cheerleaders and local bands.

The Harlem Renaissance Classic is spearheaded by the non-profit organization Bridging Structural Holes, Inc., which aims to bridge gaps within communities and foster inclusion and diversity. The organization’s mission reflects its vision to “shrink the racial divide and create a platform that promotes new levels of inclusion, diversity, equity and acceptance in spaces previously unattainable for marginalized, underserved groups.” 

This event not only highlights the competitive spirit of HBCU athletics but also serves as a critical platform for community engagement, empowerment, and celebration of the rich cultural heritage.

HBCU Launches Inaugural Education Leadership Fellowship Program

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Ayana McLemore

Texas Southern University has proudly rolled out its inaugural Education Leadership Fellowship Program, a groundbreaking initiative to nurture the next generation of educational leaders. Established under the leadership of Board of Regents Chairman Brandon L. Simmons, this program seeks to empower recent graduates by immersing them in crucial policy development and innovative projects that will shape the future of TSU and beyond.

Appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Chairman Simmons has advocated for educational reform and progress since taking office as the 23rd Chairman in October 2023. 

“Our Board of Regents is laser-focused on delivering education that meets the needs of students and employers so that our graduates may flourish in the thriving Texas economy,” Simmons stated. “In establishing this program, we are seeking to hire recent degree recipients who share our passion for an outcomes-based approach to higher education. For graduates interested in careers in education law and policy in an era of innovation and reform, we hope this program will provide the invaluable experience gained while assisting the university with key initiatives that benefit student outcomes.”

The Inaugural Fellowship Scholars

Joseph Johnson
Joseph Johnson
Ayana McLemore
Ayana McLemore

The inaugural cohort of the Education Leadership Fellowship Program features two individuals: Joseph Johnson and Ayana McLemore. 

Joseph Johnson is a proud graduate of TSU’s Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs in 2021. At TSU, he served as the 2020-21 Student Regent and was Chairman of the Undergraduate Student Advisory Council. His professional background spans business development, legal administration, and marketing, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit as a business co-founder.

Ayana McLemore, a 2023 Prairie View A&M University graduate, graduated with dual Political Science and Communications degrees. She demonstrated her leadership capabilities and commitment to her peers as Senior Class President. She has a background in education and legal administration background.

Throughout their year-long term, the fellows will engage in four core functions: collaboration with stakeholders, program development and evaluation, board meeting preparation, and data collection and reporting.

In addition to these responsibilities, the fellows will contribute to special projects and conduct in-depth research on current trends and emerging issues in education policy.

Applications for the second cohort of the Education Leadership Fellowship Program will open on Jan. 6, 2025, and close on March 7, 2025. This opportunity is not limited to TSU graduates; non-TSU alums are encouraged to apply.

‘Grandfather of Black Basketball’ Celebrated at HBCU Book Event

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As part of Homecoming Week at the University of the District of Columbia, an inspiring evening unfolded on Nov. 14, 2024, as Edwin Bancroft Henderson II gathered with community members to celebrate the legacy of his grandfather, E.B. Henderson—an iconic figure in sports and civil rights. The event, hosted by UDC’s College of Arts & Sciences, centered around Henderson II’s book, “The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E.B. Henderson,” paying tribute to a trailblazer whose remarkable contributions helped shape the landscape of athletics for African Americans.

E.B. Henderson (center) team captain, #9
E.B. Henderson (center) team captain, #9 (Courtesy: The Frederick Douglass Museum and Cultural Center)

E.B. Henderson, an alumnus of Miner Teachers College—one of UDC’s predecessor institutions—was a pioneering force in the first half of the 20th century. He dedicated his life to opening doors for Black athletes in a segregated America. Among his many groundbreaking achievements, he became the first African American certified to teach physical education in the United States. He also founded the Eastern Board of Officials, an organization that aimed to enhance fairness and professionalism within sports officiating.

A League of Their Own

Despite facing discrimination from the Amateur Athletic Union, Henderson’s perseverance led him to establish the Interscholastic Athletic Association, the first African American athletic league. “When he tried to get his team into the AAU, they told him that his teams would not be able to play against the white teams because of segregation,” Henderson II recounted. “They encouraged him to start his own league, so he did.”

Back, L-R: Chief Advancement Officer Richard Lucas, College of Arts and Sciences Acting Dean Jeffery Fleming, University Archivist Chris Anglim. Front: Edwin B. Henderson II
Back, L-R: Chief Advancement Officer Richard Lucas, College of Arts and Sciences Acting Dean Jeffery Fleming, University Archivist Chris Anglim. Front: Edwin B. Henderson II

The book event highlighted the elder Henderson’s vital contributions to civil rights beyond just sports. A strong advocate for racial equity, he organized the first rural branch of the NAACP in Falls Church, Virginia, and documented the achievements of Black athletes through books, including “The Negro in Sports” and “The Black Athlete: Emergence and Arrival.”

“Sports were not separate from the fight for equality, and E.B. Henderson was at the forefront of that fight. My grandfather understood that achieving equity on the court was part of a larger struggle for equity everywhere. He knew that to be a leader in sports was to also be a leader in civil rights,” Henderson II emphasized.

In recognition of his monumental impact, E.B. Henderson was posthumously inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. UDC continues to honor his legacy through the E.B. Henderson Sports Complex and a life-size statue.

Portrait of HBCU Law Dean Unveiled at N.C. Supreme Court

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The North Carolina Supreme Court celebrated a historic moment on Nov. 18, unveiling the portrait of retired Associate Justice Patricia Timmons-Goodson, the first African American woman to serve on the state’s highest court and the current dean of North Carolina Central University School of Law.

Timmons-Goodson’s journey began when she made history in 2006, following her appointment by Governor Mike Easley, L‘76, to the state Supreme Court, where she served until 2012. Throughout her distinguished career, she has been a staunch advocate for justice, equality, and the rights of underserved communities.

“It’s an incredible honor to see my portrait in the Supreme Court of North Carolina, a place that holds so much of our state’s history,” Timmons-Goodson remarked during the ceremony. “This moment reminds me of my father, Sergeant First Class Edward Timmons, who fought for freedom and justice during the Vietnam War. He inspired me to pursue law and service, and this portrait symbolizes the progress made by so many who came before me. I hope it inspires others to continue the fight for justice and equality.”

The unveiling ceremony drew a gathering of family, friends, and esteemed members of the legal and academic communities, including former U.S. Congressman G.K. Butterfield Jr., ’71, L’74, and Resident Superior Court Judge Keith Gregory ’94.

A Leader in Law

Beyond her groundbreaking role on the state Supreme Court, Timmons-Goodson has held significant positions, including her tenure on the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, to which she was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014. She eventually rose to the role of vice chair. In 2016, President Obama nominated her for a federal judgeship, and she received the highest rating from the American Bar Association.

As the dean of the NCCU School of Law since 2023, Timmons-Goodson has dedicated herself to preparing future lawyers to effect real change in society. Her educational background includes degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she earned her bachelor’s and law degrees, and a Master of Judicial Studies from Duke University. Additionally, she has been awarded honorary degrees from Johnson C. Smith University, Saint Augustine’s University, and UNC-Chapel Hill.

Jackson State University Boasts Impressive Graduation Success Rate, Leading HBCUs

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Jackson State University is making headlines again, as the NCAA Graduation Success Rate reveals the institution’s remarkable commitment to student-athlete success. With an impressive overall GSR of 87%, Jackson State ranks among the top institutions in the nation, leading all Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

This year’s report highlighted four JSU teams achieving a perfect score of 100% in their graduation rates: men’s tennis, women’s bowling, softball, and women’s tennis. Other standout performances include the women’s basketball team, which scored 95%; women’s soccer, which scored 93%; and volleyball, which scored 92%.

The figures released reflect graduation numbers for student-athletes who entered college in 2017, showcasing the progress made over more than two decades of NCAA monitoring. The NCAA has reported a steady increase in GSR rates since the metric was first introduced, with the overall rate for Division I student-athletes now at a record high of 91%—up from just 74% in 2002.

Jackson State’s achievement stands out in Mississippi, which ranks third among all universities, only behind Ole Miss and Mississippi State. 

The GSR considers student-athletes on scholarship during their first year and tracks whether they graduate from their institution or transfer while maintaining good academic standing. This holistic approach ensures that student-athletes are evaluated relatively, reflecting their efforts and circumstances.

The Bigger Picture

The NCAA’s report also noted a significant improvement in graduation rates among diverse student-athlete populations. For Black student-athletes, graduation rates have surged from 56% to 82% over the same period. Notably, Black Football Bowl Subdivision student-athletes saw similar growth, with rates climbing from 54% to 82%. In comparison, graduation rates for Black men’s basketball student-athletes rose from 46% to an impressive 84%.

“The increases and record highs in graduation success rates over the last two decades demonstrate the unique talents, abilities, and tenacity of college athletes to achieve academic excellence while performing at the highly competitive level of Division I athletics,” said Robert Davies, president emeritus of Central Michigan and chair of the Division I Committee on Academics. “The Committee on Academics applauds student-athletes for their remarkable achievements and celebrates college educators and campus leaders for their commitment to advancing student-athlete academic success.”

L’Oréal Invites Tech Innovators to Shape the Future of Beauty

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L’Oréal

In a world where consumers increasingly seek to align their purchasing decisions with their values, L’Oréal Group is answering the call with its ambitious “Sense of Purpose” campaign. This initiative aims to transparently communicate the company’s commitment to diversity, sustainability, and innovation in the beauty industry. L’Oréal is redefining beauty standards and career opportunities in tech for those passionate about making a difference.

As part of its vision for the future, L’Oréal is shaping a new era in beauty that is generous, committed, and innovative. The company aims to cater to 8 billion individual beauty needs, making 6 billion products accessible to everyone while adhering to its commitments to society and the planet. To achieve this, L’Oréal is actively seeking tech, science, and engineering professionals eager to join them in revolutionizing the beauty landscape.

Why Join L’Oréal?

At L’Oréal, tech talent is vital in transforming the beauty industry, providing an environment where technical skills drive groundbreaking advancements, from innovative product development to enhanced consumer experiences. New hires don’t just join; they lead impactful projects from day one, enabling them to see their ideas come to life in a global marketplace. 

The company is committed to continuous professional growth, offering access to the latest technology, certifications, and dynamic learning opportunities. L’Oréal fosters a fast-paced, entrepreneurial atmosphere where every voice is valued, encouraging employees to innovate and make their mark. With diverse career paths across global brands, individuals can create unique journeys in beauty tech. 

A Sustainable Transformation

Integrating technology and data is central to L’Oréal’s mission as it embarks on an ambitious transformation journey aligned with its 2030 sustainability goals. The company is taking significant steps toward eco-responsibility, committing to total carbon neutrality across all its sites by 2025 and ensuring that all industrial processes will adopt water recycling practices by 2030. Programs like Solidarity Sourcing are also vital, creating employment opportunities annually for 89,000 individuals from underprivileged communities.

In the words of Carole, an IT EU Data Engineer at L’Oréal, “When you join the Group, you have real possibilities for development… it pushes you to get out of your zone of comfort and to always progress.” Her experience highlights L’Oréal’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that supports employee growth.

Join the Beauty Tech Revolution

As industry 5.0 drives transformations across sectors, L’Oréal stands at the forefront of this evolution, leveraging AI, machine learning, and cutting-edge technologies to enhance the beauty experience for consumers around the globe. With over 8,000 digital, tech, and data experts currently in the workforce and further opportunities for engineers and innovators, L’Oréal is well-positioned as a leader in beauty tech.

Join L’Oréal as it invents the beauty of the future powered by technology, grounded in responsibility, and driven by a commitment to social impact.

HBCU Students Create Innovative Ergonomics Program for Mothers

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Two graduate students from Winston-Salem State University, Cristina Sorensen and Stefanie Ramsey, have developed a unique ergonomics training program to help mothers reduce the physical strain of caring for young children. Their innovative project was recognized with the 2024 Future Healthcare Legend Award during the recent Healthcare Legends of East Winston Awards Luncheon.

Cristina Sorensen, left, a WSSU graduate student, presents a class on ergonomics for mothers. She and project partner Stefani Ramsey, not shown, designed the award-winning program.

Sorensen is a student in the occupational therapy program. Ramsey is pursuing her family nurse practitioner degree. Both mothers who understand firsthand the demands of parenting. They observed the physical toll that lifting, bending, and repetitive motions take on mothers as they care for their infants and toddlers. “The lifting, carrying, and repetitive motion that is required combined with body changes resulting from pregnancy put women at an increased risk of injuries in their shoulders, neck, back, and wrist,” Sorensen noted.

Addressing an Issue They Faced

This personal connection to the challenges of motherhood inspired Sorensen and Ramsey to collaborate on their project, which emerged from their application for the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship. In partnership with the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship, the North Carolina Area Health Education Centers, and the Forsyth County Health Department, the program aims to educate mothers in East Winston-Salem on injury prevention strategies.

“Our project aims to help women in East Winston-Salem avoid and manage pain and injury,” Sorensen explained. The classes are tailored for mothers with children under six years old, a stage where substantial lifting and carrying occur. The program has reached approximately 40 participants through the local health department.

As part of their initiative, Sorensen and Ramsey have created and distributed 3D-printed ergonomic devices, including grocery bag carriers, bag hooks for carts and strollers, and tools designed to alleviate the strain of unbuckling car seats. The $2,500 prize awarded to them will be used to expand the program. Their plans include producing instructional videos, providing transportation for participants, and developing bilingual materials in Spanish to ensure wider accessibility.

With their sights set on continuing their important work, Sorensen will graduate this December, while Ramsey will complete her studies in May 2025.

Tragic NCCU Loss: Community Mourning the Deaths of Two Students

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North Carolina Central University is grieving the loss of two students, Xavier Neil Holton and Aminah Michelle Guy, following a tragic incident on Nov. 18, 2024. Holton, 19, a recent graduate from Garner High School, was an NCCU freshman, while his girlfriend, Guy, also 19, studied computer science and graphic design at NCCU but was not currently enrolled in classes. Both were found deceased, along with Holton’s mother, Erica Alyse Holton, in their Cary home. Erica Holton was a graduate of North Carolina A&T and North Carolina Central University. 

  • Aminah Michelle Guy and Xavier Neil Holton
  • Xavier Neil Holton
  • Aminah Michelle Guy

Details surrounding the incident remain under investigation, with the Cary Police Department confirming that all three individuals died from gunshot wounds. The police have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community as they continue their investigation. A 911 call made by Holton’s husband indicated a potential burglary upon his return home, but the situation quickly escalated into a tragic discovery.

Xavier Holton had recently garnered attention after being cited for multiple offenses following a serious car accident earlier this month. Reports indicated concerns regarding his mental health leading up to the tragic event.

Chancellor Dr. Karrie G. Dixon addressed the university community in a heartfelt message. In her message, she emphasized the importance of support during this painful time, urging students to seek counseling if needed. The university’s counseling services are available to help those affected process their grief by appointment or drop-in. 

The university has urged its members to keep the families of the deceased in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging period.

Anyone with information should reach out to the Cary Police Department at 919-469-4012 or contact CrimeStoppers at 919-460-4636. You can also report anonymously online at www.p3tips.com/1242.

HBCU World Wildlife Fund Launch Environmental Journalism Scholarship

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In a groundbreaking initiative to foster the next generation of environmental journalists, the World Wildlife Fund has announced a partnership with Hampton University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications. This new scholarship and mentorship program revealed during a virtual Student Town Hall at the Robert P. Scripps Auditorium, aims to amplify diverse voices in a critical field that is facing significant challenges.

Environmental journalism is currently under threat, with unprecedented layoffs affecting newsrooms nationwide in the past year. Concurrently, the urgency of environmental issues is growing, as highlighted in WWF’s 2024 Living Planet Report, which reveals devastating declines in wildlife populations over the past five decades. The necessary response to these challenges relies heavily on skilled journalists equipped to inform the public and drive change.

Financial and Mentoring Support

The newly established scholarship will provide a $10,000 award alongside practical experience in environmental reporting. The selected recipient can collaborate with advisors from WWF’s Communications and People & Culture departments. They will receive mentorship designed to enhance their skills and career trajectories in journalism.

WWF’s senior vice president of People & Culture, Renee Johnson, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating: “We are thrilled to partner with Hampton University to support students in the pursuit of their academic and professional goals. At WWF, we recognize that education can be a catalyst for real change, and we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of environmental journalists who will tackle urgent issues like climate change and biodiversity loss. This partnership is directly aligned with WWF’s values and tangibly demonstrates our commitment to the inclusion of diverse voices so often underrepresented in the conservation sector.”

Dean Julia A. Wilson of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications echoed this sentiment: “This partnership represents a milestone in our school’s strategic goals that includes updating our curriculum to include Science Journalism to focus on training aspiring journalists to cover climate and environmental news. Our students not only will gain critical journalism and communications skills, but they also will begin building valuable industry relationships.”

Who Can Apply for the Scholarship?

Rising sophomores through seniors enrolled in the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications program are encouraged to apply.

UDC Men’s Soccer Makes History with ECC Championship Win

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UDC men's soccer team after win

On Sunday, the University of the District of Columbia men’s soccer team made history by clinching its first-ever East Coast Conference Championship title. UDC’s historic win came after a 2-1 victory over Molloy University Lions on John A. Darcy Field at the RVC Sports Complex.

The match began with an early goal from UDC’s Ignacio Lopez. Just three minutes into the game, Lopez scored a free kick, putting UDC ahead 1-0 at halftime. In the second half, Molloy equalized with a header from Steph Maurice in the 57th minute.

The teams played through regulation and overtime without any additional goals. With only nine seconds left in the first overtime period, UDC’s Mustafa Tahir scored the winning goal with a header off a corner kick, securing the Firebirds’ 2-1 victory.

In addition to Tahir’s golden goal, the contributions of Ignacio Lopez, who scored the opening goal and was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player, and goalkeeper Giovanni Llamas, who made four crucial saves, were instrumental in securing the championship. With this victory, UDC earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament, signaling just their second appearance since 2017.

This win was not just about lifting a trophy; it represented a remarkable turnaround for UDC. After starting the season with a challenging record of 1-5-2, the Firebirds formed a seven-game unbeaten streak culminating in this historic championship run. The Firebirds are the first-ever No. 6 seed to capture the ECC title. They overcame strong opponents along the way, including Roberts Wesleyan as the No. 3 seed and Mercy as the No. 2 seed.

HBCU Unveils Plans for $50M State-of-the-Art Agricultural Laboratory

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WVSU groundbreaking ceremony

In a significant step for agricultural education and research, West Virginia State University celebrated the groundbreaking of its new $50 million agricultural laboratory on Tuesday. WVSU President Ericke S. Cage, Governor Jim Justice, Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt, and various state and local officials attended the event.

“This is truly an historic day in the life of West Virginia State University as we break ground for this cutting-edge facility that will help drive the future of agriculture and agricultural research in West Virginia for generations to come,” President Cage remarked at the event. He thanked key political figures for their unwavering project support.

Governor Justice echoed Cage’s sentiments, highlighting agriculture’s vital role in West Virginia’s identity. “I’ve been all in on this project from the start because I know the difference it will make for our agriculture industry,” he stated. “This state-of-the-art research facility is an investment in our future, our farmers, and our students, who will be the ones to carry this proud tradition forward for generations to come.”

The new agricultural laboratory will provide modern laboratory space for WVSU and the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. It will also house the newly established Purdy School of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources.

A standout feature of the project is the notable $2.5 million gift from the Purdy family, marking the largest cash donation in WVSU’s history. Verl Purdy, a West Virginia native and managing partner of Cadrillion Capital in Charlotte, North Carolina, emphasized supporting higher education to create opportunities for future generations. My siblings and I were first-generation college graduates, and we have devoted our lives to providing others with the same opportunity to succeed,” he shared.

NCAT Leads HBCUs in Black Graduate Production Across Disciplines

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According to new rankings released by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has once again solidified its position as a leading institution for Black graduates. For the eleventh year, A&T stands out among Historically Black Colleges and Universities, graduating the highest number of Black bachelor’s degree earners. Notably, it also leads all U.S. universities in graduating Black students in engineering at both the bachelor’s and doctoral levels.

As the largest HBCU in America, NC A&T’s achievements extend beyond engineering. The university shares the top spot nationally with Tuskegee University in producing Black graduates in agriculture. Furthermore, it ranks second nationwide in several fields, including communications, journalism, liberal arts, and parks and recreation studies. Across 14 disciplines, A&T is among the top 10 producers of Black graduates and holds the title of No. 1 HBCU producer in eight distinct disciplines.

Leading By Example

Chancellor James R. Martin II expressed pride in A&T’s educational impact, stating, “North Carolina A&T’s national leadership in these metrics has a direct impact on representation of African Americans across the United States in the knowledge-based economy and on Black America.” He emphasized the university’s commitment to affordability and social mobility, noting that A&T ranks as one of the nation’s most affordable doctoral research universities.

In the STEM arena, A&T continues to excel, ranking highly in numerous disciplines: No. 11 in biological and biomedical sciences, No. 9 in computer and information sciences, No. 3 in engineering technologies, and No. 8 in mathematics and statistics, among others. It is the top university for engineering doctoral programs and ranks in the top 10 for master’s degrees in six distinct fields.

A&T’s influence spans various fields beyond STEM, including visual and performing arts, where it leads all HBCUs and ranks ninth among U.S. universities. Additionally, A&T shares the fifth spot nationally for Black graduates in marketing, demonstrating its broad educational reach.

An Economic Force

The significance of A&T’s accomplishments is further underscored by its substantial economic impact, estimated at $2.4 billion based on a 2022 study. This figure includes a significant increase of approximately $900 million from previous assessments, primarily driven by the growth in student graduation rates. In the 2022-23 academic year, A&T graduated nearly 2,600 students, a notable increase from 2,100 five years earlier.

HBCU Engineering Professor Unveils Surprising Holiday Album

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Dr. Chance Glenn

In a delightful twist this holiday season, Dr. Chance Glenn, a distinguished engineering professor at Alabama A&M University, has stepped out of the classroom and into the recording studio — all within the confines of his engineering lab. His new Christmas album, “A Christmas Gift,” is now available on popular streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, showcasing a side of Glenn many may not expect.

Dr. Glenn’s musical journey began long before his academic accolades. In 1999, he released his first CD, “The Praise Project – First Fruits,” which earned a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in Contemporary Christian Music the following year. This remarkable achievement began a versatile career, but after releasing his second album, “Jesus is Faithful,” in 2005, Glenn shifted his focus to academia. With a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Maryland and master’s and doctoral degrees from Johns Hopkins University, Glenn has excelled as a leader in engineering education.

Beyond The Music

His impressive career includes serving as the Dean of the College of Engineering, Technology, and Physical Sciences at Alabama A&M and as Provost at the University of Houston-Victoria, though he is presently on sabbatical. Despite these demanding roles, music has always remained integral to his life. 

Dr. Chance Glenn

Growing up in church, Glenn’s passion for singing started young. In the 90s, he took on the role of worship leader at a church in Maryland, where he contributed to the creation of original songs reflective of the church’s ministry approach. However, a simple yet profound request from his wife Marsha reignited his musical aspirations and led to the creation of “A Christmas Gift.” 

“This album is really my Christmas gift to her,” Glenn shared warmly. “For 34 years, she’s been my light. It felt fitting to create something for her that could shine a little light in these dark times.”

To fulfill his wife’s wish, Glenn transformed his engineering laboratory in the Bond Engineering Building into a makeshift recording studio. Even amidst a rigorous academic schedule, including leading a recent student interview with NASA astronaut Dr. Jeanette Epps upon her return from a seven-month mission aboard the International Space Station, Glenn found time to pour his heart into this project.

“The holidays are a time for reflection and connection,” he expressed. “I hope this album brings a little joy to everyone who listens.”