Page 365 – HBCU Buzz

Alcorn State Mourns The Loss of Game Changer, Tollette “Tonka”George

Posted on Jun 27, 2016

The HBCU community as a whole is in mourns the loss of former Alcorn State University receiver Tollete ‘Tonka’ George. He was shot to death in New Orleans late Friday night.

George played five years with the Braves, where in 2013 he led the team in receptions with 52, totaling 637 yards and three touchdowns. He is also known for his game tying touchdown in the Inaugural Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl last December, according to SWAC

In a release from the university:

Alcorn State University sends its deepest sympathy to the family of former wide receiver Tollette “Tonka” George, who died late Friday night in New Orleans.‪Tonka graduated from Alcorn in May and was a member of the Braves football team for five years.”Tonka was a talented student and athlete,” Athletics Director Derek Horne said. “The Alcorn family is deeply saddened by Tonka’s death and we are praying for his family and all who knew and loved him.”Grief counselors will be available to assist students, faculty and staff next week.

RIP TONKA.

— Tyrann Mathieu (@Mathieu_Era) June 25, 2016

https://twitter.com/CatchMeOn__E60/status/746563225647484928

Entertainment

Jesse Williams Delivers Acceptance Speech of a Lifetime

Brittany Ireland

Posted on Jun 27, 2016

If you did not tune in to the BET Awards 2016 last night, you missed a great show. Not only were the stars looking amazing on the white carpet, the performances were purposeful, dripping in symbolism — a true celebration of black culture. Of particular awesomeness was the speech of Jesse Williams, who was awarded the 2016 BET Humanitarian Award.

His truths coupled with his delivery went viral in seconds. Watch and see the full transcript below:

“Peace. Peace.

Thank you Debra. Thank you, Nate Parker. Thank you, Harry and Debbie Allen, for participating in that. Before we get into it, I just want to say I brought my parents out tonight — I just want to thank them for being here and teaching me to focus on comprehension over career. They made sure I learned what the schools were afraid to teach us. And also, thank you to my amazing wife for changing my life.

Now, this award, this is not for me. This is for the real organizers all over the country. The activists, the civil rights attorneys, the struggling parents, the families, the teachers, the students that are realizing that a system built to divide and impoverish and destroy us cannot stand if we do. Alright? It’s kind of basic mathematics. The more we learn about who we are and how we got here, the more we will mobilize.

Now, this is also in particular for the black women in particular who have spent their lifetimes dedicated to nurturing everyone before themselves. We can and will do better for you.

Now, what we’ve been doing is looking at the data and we know that police somehow manage to deescalate, disarm and not kill white people every day. So what’s going to happen is we’re going to have equal rights and justice in our own country or we will restructure their function in ours.

Now, [standing ovation] I got more, y’all.

Yesterday would have been young Tamir Rice’s 14th birthday. So, I don’t want to hear anymore about how far we’ve come when paid public servants can pull a drive by on a 12-year-old playing alone in a park in broad daylight, killing him on television and then going home to make a sandwich.

Tell Rekia Boyd how it’s so much better to live in 2012, than it is to live in 1612 or 1712. Tell that to Eric Garner. Tell that to Sandra Bland. Tell that to Darrien Hunt.

Now, the thing is tho, all of us in here getting money that alone isn’t going to stop this. Alright? Now dedicating our lives to getting money just to give it right back. To put someone’s brand on our body when we spent centuries praying with brands on our bodies and now we pray to get paid with brands for our bodies. There has been no war that we have not fought and died on the front lines of. There has been no job we haven’t done. There’s no tax they haven’t levied against us. And we pay all of them. But freedom is somehow always conditional here. You’re free, they keep telling us, but she would have been alive if she hadn’t acted so free.

Now, freedom is always coming in the hereafter but, you know what tho, the hereafter is a hustle. We want it now. And let’s get a couple of things straight here, just a little sidenote. The burden of the brutalized is not to comfort the bystander. That’s not our job. Alright, stop with all that. If you have a critique for the resistance, for our resistance, then you better have an established record of critique of our oppression. If you have no interest in equal rights for black people, then do not make suggestions to those who do. Sit down.

We’ve been floating this country on credit for centuries, yo. And we’re done watching, and waiting while this invention called whiteness uses and abuses us. Burying black people out of sight and out of mind, while extracting our culture, our dollars, our entertainment like oil — black gold. Ghettoizing and demeaning our creations then stealing them. Gentrifying our genius and then trying us on like costumes before discarding our bodies like rinds of strange fruit. The thing is tho, the thing is, that just because we’re magic doesn’t mean we’re not real. Thank you.”

Editorial

The Changing Role of the Sports Superstar

HBCU Editors

Posted on Jun 26, 2016

Recently, we lost one of the greatest sportsmen that the world has ever known. Muhammad Ali, nee Cassius Clay, was legendary in the ring. However, he was more than just a sports star. He was an activist. Muhammad Ali became just as revered for his human rights activism as his prowess in the boxing ring. Although, Muhammad Ali’s fists were his most highly regarded attributes. His voice and his ingenuity were not far behind. Ali showed that sports stars have a voice, a powerful voice. Which begs the question, is it now the responsibility of the sports superstar to use that voice? We’re taking a look at the changing role of the sports superstar.

Muhammad Ali was never known for his political correctness. In fact, his lack of it often landed him in trouble. His refusal to fight in the war on Vietnam is a prime example. After refusing to fight on the ground of conscientious objection, Ali was arrested. His boxing licence was suspended by the NYSAC and the WBA stripped him of his world heavyweight title. Three years of his boxing career were lost. Many ask whether it is the job of the athlete to just ‘stick to sports’. Ali thought not.

Now, superstar athletes must decide whether they want to join this category. They could simply sit back on their laurels playing games that give an adrenaline rush like new casinos online, reaping the benefits of fame whilst remaining impartial. Some of today’s sports stars have chosen to take on Ali’s approach of using their fame as a platform for activism. One such example is LeBron James. The Miami Heat star has been vocal on a number of occasions about his feelings on prejudice and police brutality.

In February 2012, Trayvon Martin was fatally shot by a member of a local neighbourhood watch committee aged just 17. Trayvon was African American and wearing a hoody at the time of his death. The digital footprint left behind by his shooting was astronomical. Many took to social media to express disbelief over the racial stereotyping that led to the young man’s death. One of the many outraged was then 27 year old LeBron James.

Le Bron made his views very clear, frequently tweeting with the hashtag #IAmTayvon. He and his teammates even took pictures in hoodies, with their hoods up to show how a prejudice exists which could put any African American in the same situation as Tayvon. LeBron waded in on the issue, likely without approval from his team or his sponsorships. He had a lot to lose.

This is the crux of the issue for many super sports stars. It would appear that you are damned if you do, damned if you don’t. Is it right for sports stars to wade in on issues such as Senate Bill 873 or to engage in philanthropy to highlight problems? Has it now become part of their unofficial job description to engage in these issues and give them a voice?

The truth is that opinions are split. Whilst many people are happy that sport stars can lend credence and publicity to a cause, others believe it is not their place to comment.

It’s undeniable that Muhammad Ali did a huge amount of good by speaking out on issues he believed in. The fact that it also came at a significant personal cost cannot be ignored. There is scope for the role of the sports star to change. Social media has given it a push. However, whether stars will embrace the opportunity is another story.

Community

HBCU Young Alumni Series: Beating the Odds ft. Ke’Asia Craig

Chymere A. Hayes

Posted on Jun 25, 2016

There is already something so inspirational about the HBCU experience, in a sense that you are surrounded by a myriad of educated, ambitious young people, all striving towards common goals. Amongst that cluster are always the ones who-for whatever reason-stand out, whether it be in the realm of academics, athletics, community service, and so forth. These are students whose presence alone forces everyone around them to not only recognize the spark they have, but also inspire greatness within themselves. Ms. Ke’Asia Craig, who at 18-years-old received acceptance into medical school and at 19-years-old is an HBCU graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (with a primary interest in psychiatry) is absolutely one of those students who stopped at nothing to accomplish her goals.

KeasiaCraig_gradshoot — Photo cred. @DGPhotography

CH: First of all, let me start by saying congratulations for making the illustrious North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University look so good! Let’s start with the basics. What made you choose North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University?

KC: Well, initially during my senior year of high school I applied to 11 different colleges. These colleges ranged from institutions such as UNC Chapel Hill and the University of Miami to North Carolina A&T and North Carolina Central University. My mom recommended that I try an HBCU because she thought that I would benefit from the atmosphere. I chose A&T specifically because of the vibe on campus when I first visited. I loved how I was surrounded by educated black individuals who were trying to better themselves. That type of environment is so empowering, and the reason why HBCUs are so valuable. Plus, there isn’t nothing like that Aggie Pride!

CH: Absolutely agree! And with all do respect to North Carolina Central, I think you made a great choice! At what point did you know you wanted to go into medicine? Did your parents influence you or was in strictly something you wanted for yourself?

KC: My mother was one my biggest influences in choosing my path of medicine. My mom is a pharmacist, and my grandmother worked in a medical office so you can say that I always knew I would go into medicine because medicine is all that I was around. My mom used to take me to work where I would watch her count prescription pills and complete orders, so at first I wanted to be a pharmacist. In high school I fell in love with psychology, and I knew that studying mental processes and behavior was what I wanted to do in life. After researching, I realized that psychiatry was the perfect mixture of psychology and pharmacy. The rest is history!

CH: Medical school acceptance at 18 years-old and obtaining a Bachelor’s degree at 19 years-old are two very noteworthy milestones. I admire your ambition! Tell us a little about the route you took.

KC: It is a bit complicating to explain, but I went to middle college in high school, which means that I was dual enrolled in high school and community college at the same time. I started taking college classes my junior year of high school. By the end of my senior year, I accumulated around 50-60 credits. Around that time, I applied to A&T and was researching about the Early Assurance Scholars Program. In this program, which is a partnership between Eastern Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine and NC A&T, two incoming freshmen were chosen to be the guaranteed recipients of medical school seats upon graduation from A&T as long as the program requirements were upheld. I applied to this program, receiving one of the two seats at Brody School of Medicine with the entering Class of 2018 (Graduating class of 2022). While I was enrolled at A&T (majoring in Psychology), I also managed to stay enrolled at the community college. My class workload for the 4 semesters that I was attending both A&T and the community college was up to 25 credit hours a semester. My goal was to graduate in two years, and with hard work, I just knew it was very possible. This May, I graduate from the illustrious NORTH CAROLINA AGRICULTURAL & TECHNICAL STATE UNIVERSITY with a 3.5, having been on the Dean’s List all four semesters I attended.

CH: What a rewarding feeling to finally cross that finish line. The workload for a student in your field is certainly massive and going well over maximum credit hours for the average student only added to the challenge. Was there a time when you didn’t think you’d be able to make it? If so, how did you regain confidence?

KC: There were PLENTY of times I thought I would not make it. Sometimes I would get so caught up and overwhelmed by the goal I was attempting to accomplish, that I honestly thought it was best to give up. However, through prayer, and an amazing support system compiled of my parents and my boyfriend, I managed to get through. My boyfriend literally had to handle my tears and breakdowns about school and grades, but he always told me that he would not let me give up no matter what. Realizing how important my goal was to me on a daily basis made me regain confidence, and succeed.

CH: That’s such a blessing to have such a strong support system. While you were in school, what did your social life comprise of? What was your idea of the perfect weekend?

KC: My first year at A&T my social life was poppin! I was always out, always at parties, always on the scene. However, when I noticed my grades were suffering, I knew I had to make a change. So, this past school year I moved in with my boyfriend and became laser focused. I did not have much of a social life this past year because of my immense courseload, however I still had fun. My perfect weekend would be going to the movies or the science museum with my boyfriend, and a little Netflix and chill!

CH: Sounds good to me! So now that you are officially an alumna of the North Carolina A&T State University, have you made a final decision about what’s next? Would you like to tell people where you’ve chosen to go for medical school?

KC: I will be attending Brody School of Medicine in 2018. Also, I am starting a college success/ career success blog soon so please follow my Twitter at @blissfulallure for more updates!

Buzz Killer

Howard University’s WHUT, The Nation’s Only Black-Owned Public Broadcasting TV Station, Up For Auction

Tommy G. Meade Jr.

Posted on Jun 24, 2016

The Federal Communications Commission has started an auction that allows Howard University in the nation’s capital to sell off WHUT, the nation’s only black owned broadcasting station.

The sale of Howard’s WHUT is a wake up call for diversity in the media industry, according to Wade Henderson, an alumnus of Howard University and the president and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.

In a post on The Root, Henderson writes, “…For years, the FCC has watched female and minority ownership of broadcast stations dwindle without much concern for the real-world implications of having our broadcast airwaves run almost exclusively by white men.”

He continued, “After ignoring 12 years of court orders to address this problem, the FCC has started an auction, allowing Howard University to sell off the very valuable broadcast airwaves of WHUT, our nation’s first and only black-owned public TV station.”

He also questioned the FCC, who he says wrongly put Howard solely responsible for WHUT’s survival:

That’s a burden for the FCC to bear, not Howard. But that hasn’t stopped critics from unfairly criticizing the university for selling the spectrum, which will likely go on to be used by wireless phone companies, earning hundreds of millions of dollars for the school and its students.

…

“The FCC’s inaction comes at a significant cost for the black community’s prospects to include its perspectives and stories in the media. Out of 1,784 commercial broadcast television stations in this country, only seven are owned by African Americans. These rates are not much better for women or other people of color.

As a result, the media exaggerates black criminality, unemployment and poverty. And because local news is the main source of news for the vast majority of people and dominates the political discussion in our country, these distortions have real-world effects on how people treat and view African Americans.”

Head over to The Root to read more.

Buzzing News

Fisk & American Baptist Alumni, Congressman John Lewis Sit-in On House Floor Over Gun Control

HBCU Editors

Posted on Jun 22, 2016

Democrats literally sat down on the floor of the House chamber on Wednesday — and forced the House into a temporary recess — as part of an effort to compel Republican leadership to vote on gun control legislation. According to the Huffington Post

Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), the civil rights icon who led sit-ins all through the 1960s, spearheaded the effort with a fiery, sermon-like denunciation of Congress for its failure to act in the wake of mass shootings.

“For months, even for years, through seven sessions of Congress, I wondered, what would bring this body to take action?” Lewis said while Democrats slowly surrounded him at the microphone. “We have lost hundreds and thousands of innocent people to gun violence. Tiny little children. Babies. Students. And teachers. Mother and fathers. Sisters and brothers. Daughters and sons. Friends and neighbors. And what has this body done? Mr. Speaker, not one thing.”

After about 10 minutes of escalating questions — and shouting, “Where is our soul? Where is our courage?” — Lewis said it was time for Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) to bring up some of the pending gun control bills. In the meantime, he said, he’d just take a seat. Moments later, he sat down on the floor. And so did all the other Democrats with him.

Joining w/ @repjohnlewis &dozens of my colleagues for House sit-in for a vote to prevent gun violence #NoBillNoBreak pic.twitter.com/Lg4cM9Gzj0

— Elizabeth Esty (@Elizabeth_Esty) June 22, 2016

Thank you John Lewis for leading on gun violence where we need it most. https://t.co/vctfqAH5Wt

— President Obama (@POTUS44) June 22, 2016

Buzzing News

Spelman College Joins Harvard Digital Business Course Consortium

HBCU Editors

Posted on Jun 21, 2016

Spelman college was added to the list as the only HBCU of 25 colleges and universities partnering with Harvard University School of Business HBX CORe CORe program. The HBX CORe is an online program designed to teach the fundamentals of business to undergraduate students and early- to mid-career professionals via the highly engaging and interactive HBX online platform designed by Harvard Business School. HBX CORe consists of three courses: Business Analytics, Economics for Managers, and Financial Accounting. Launched in summer 2014, it has program start dates throughout the year and has enrolled more than 8,500 individuals to date.

In speaking about his experience with HBX CORe, Harvard Law student Rick Corbett said, “HBX was invaluable and essential education. The information provided, the quality of presentation, and the high-level engagement among students surpassed my expectations.”

Freshman

HBCU Freshman Bible: 7 Easy Mistakes in Gaining a Bad Reputation on Campus

Brittany Ireland

Posted on Jun 21, 2016

If you are like most freshman students your time is split between being impulsive, embracing new found freedom, exploring a new city, spending a refund check, or other carefee joys that can be the foundation to the best college memories.

Caution: do not to be too carefree or too impulsive. Nine times out of ten, carelessness and impulsiveness are the driving factors on the road to a bad reputation. Remember that branding is everything and first impressions are lasting ones. Image is not everything and we should not be judged by our image, but the fact of the matter is ..we are! Do yourself a favor and beware of these easy mistakes that tarnish can your image:

Open legs close doors

Do you want to be the sexual fantasy of every guy on campus? Would you appreciate being the girl that every guy talks about because they have “hooked up” with you? If so, read no more. If this is not you, and you would like to maintain a reputation of being wholesome, listen up. There is one easy rule when managing the opposite sex: don’t do it unless you couldn’t care less if the entire campus knows. News spreads like wildfire on campus. Word of mouth is the first and most rapid form of communication on campus. Never forget this.

Guys will “sweet talk” you and make you feel special. You are sweet. You are special. You do not need a man(who is really just a boy) to reinforce these truths. For some of us, we excite at the thought of college because it is the place our parents met and we are ready to write another chapter in our love story. Proceed with extreme caution.

Know that as young, testosterone-driven males on campus who are away from home – many for the first time – a love story is the last thing on their brains. The sad truth is things like 1-getting a high “body-count”, 2-having a cool (probably exaggerated) story to brag to his boys, and 3-simply having sex with you for the heck of it, probably matter a lot more in their mind.

Don’t waste your time worrying about love your freshman year. Worry about loving yourself, starting your studies off strong, and making great memories that won’t damage your personal brand. You don’t want to be at your class reunion 20 years later with a husband and children still being known as the girl that every guy has seen naked… Guys talk just as much as women.

Don’t make the mistake of giving yourself away to those that do not deserve it.

Blacklisted

blacklist – (n.) – a list of persons placed on a list under suspicion, disfavor, or censure

It is perfectly fine to be a freshman and know or have an idea about a divine nine, Greek-letter organization you would like to join. Do not claim to be a “future-ANYTHING”, as it is both presumptive and disrespectful. Your organization goals should remain your business until the appropriate time to express interest, which is generally at a formal rush ceremony. Freshman year is for innocent enjoyment. It is common for these organizations to have programming throughout the year, especially after a new line has been welcomed. I am not telling you to avoid these programs but do not get caught being too thirsty.

People treat you how you let them, and if you are the first one in line at every single program, 41 million hours early, desperately trying to get attention.. know that you are signing yourself up to be toyed with. And once it starts, good luck shedding that attention.

There is a difference between being interested and being thirsty. Do yourself a favor and don’t make the mistake of being too thirsty for any organization. (especially because most Greek-letter organizations require 30 credit hours, which typically equates to a sophomore classification)

Mean what you say, say what you mean

Some of the most fond memories of my college career at Howard University were the unplanned, impromptu intellectual conversations I found myself in. My morals, societal beliefs, and political + religious views were tested and strengthened as a result. It was during these late night/early morning conversations that I learned more about myself, my peers, what I loved, and what I could not tolerate because I did a lot of listening. In a room full of intellectual beings reaching for success and sprinting toward their goals, of course one would like to have the “room-silencing” comment that resonates with everyone. My advice to you is to remember you are the freshman, and not to force anything.

Do yourself a favor and do not make the mistake of saying things you do not mean and do not speak on things in which you aren’t knowledgeable. These remarks will follow you and nobody wants to engage a hypocrite or someone who just says what sounds good.

Hold your liquor

College is supposed to be fun and exciting.

College is not supposed to be fun, exciting, and the place where you drink your life away. Every student is there to enjoy themselves, do not find yourself burdening others because you cannot “hold your liquor”.

Don’t make the mistake of being the one who always 1-drinks too much they pass out, 2-must rely on friends to carry them home, 3-drinks so much and cannot control themselves, or 4-is always getting their stomach pumped from alcohol poisoning.

Cleanliness is next to godliness

..In 2006, artist Big Boi said it best in the hit film “ATL”. Now is not the time to slack on your personal hygienic habits. Now is actually the time to master them. Do not make the mistake of being dirty, messy, having an odor, or being one who frequents bird baths but skips the shower. These things will not go unnoticed. Be intentional about your cleanliness, especially if you share a living space.

What grade are your classmates giving you?

Your professors are not the only ones giving you a grade in college. Though your peers do not have an influence on the letter grade that appears on your transcript, the perception they form about your academic performance carries its own importance.

Do you show up late to class? Have you been known to cheat or plagiarize? Are you always full of excuses? Do you sit in the back of class and fall asleep 2 out of 3 times your class meets for the week? Do you do your part in team assignments or does your team “carry your weight”? Are you last minute?

Do not make the mistake of thinking that your professors opinion of your academic career is the only one that matters.

Social media mishaps

Be careful of the image you carry with you to campus. Yes that selfie may be cute, but is the “side boob” or “eggplant” print really necessary? Do you want the network of individuals that will follow you for the rest of your life to see those images of you?

Quench your thirst and “go sit down”, FRESHMAN. Mistakes like these are the easiest way to spot a new KID on campus. Part of being a mature adult is understanding the difference between what is tasteful and what is inappropriate. If you feel validated because you see tons of similar images online from “video vixens” and “real ni**as”, you may want to re-evaluate the sources of your inspiration.

Especially if you have aspirations of being a student leader, do yourself a favor and don’t make the mistake of trashing your image via social media pages. (This goes without saying, but you should also avoid having a pristine social media page and be the most promiscuous student on campus. Consistency is key.)

Ready for college but not sure what to expect, or even bring? Before you say goodbye to your parents and friends, check out this ultimate guide to surviving your first year in college, and in particular at the country’s 107 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). We created the #HBCUFreshmanBible to help build a bridge for students to make a successful transition from high school to black colleges, you can read more here.

Freshman

HBCU Freshman Bible: 5 Ways to Get Kicked Off Campus

Brittany Ireland

Posted on Jun 21, 2016

Though historically black colleges and universities have a reputation for producing well over half of all African-American higher education degrees, they are also known to be the ultimate social, party, and entertainment hubs. Life on campus at an HBCU will not only get you ready for the grind of daily life after college, they will help you thrive. Have fun and embrace a regret-free collegiate career at all costs; just don’t go too far and find yourself kicked off campus, because it will happen.. and there may be little to nothing that you can do to rectify your situation.

Before you are about to “try it” with HBCU administration, think of that fun, strict parent: they support you, especially if you handle your business, but when you start to slack off and fall short of expectations, you will be punished.. and it will not be pretty. HBCU administration is no different. Your education is worth more than momentary satisfaction. Do not try it.

There are 5 major “no-no’s” that will get you thrown off campus:

Disturbing the peace

Are you a rambunctious, short-fused hot head that can’t control your emotions and reflexes? Find your chill before you make your way to a college campus because HBCUs are not the place to be a “pop-off Patty”. Fighting, instigating, and inciting violence are probably the easiest (and dumbest) way to throw your HBCU college career down the drain. Disturbing the peace is not limited to physical things, just ask Samuel Jackson who was expelled from Morehouse College in 1969 for locking board members (including the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s very own father, Martin Luther King Sr!) in a building, and holding them hostage for two days!

Puff Puff, Pass

Do you enjoy partaking in illicit drug-related activity? Pills, cocaine, heroin, acid, mushrooms, and even marijuana, which is decriminalized in some states, have no place on a college campus. Though these drugs have the reputation of enhancing party life and relieving stress, the truth is, anytime you inject, snort, sniff, puff, or ingest one of these substances, you put your life and the lives of others at risk. Puff Puff PASS on the drugs. You have been warned.

Cheaters Never Prosper

Cheating is not only the easy way out, it is in direct violation of every HBCU’s code of conduct. If you are lucky you will be placed on academic probation (which will limit your on-campus activity in clubs, organizations, campus politics, divine nine organizations,social events, and more). Cheating is also damaging to your personal brand: Say you have dreams of being a doctor and you’re studying biology, but you are a cheater and people know this. Do you think when you graduate med school years later, people will line up to your medical practice trusting you with their newborn infant? Chances are, they will employ the hard worker known for studying with a record of integrity. The same goes for plagiarizing. Plagiarism is actually punishable by law. Does copyright infringement sound familiar? Behoove yourself to be original. Plagiarizers and cheaters never proposer. You have been warned.

Less money, more problems.

Paying for college is expensive and can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life thus far. Do yourself a favor and be prepared. The bottom line is, if you do not have the money, scholarship, grant, financial assistance, etc., at some point, your status as a validated “student” will be revoked and you will kindly (or not) escorted out of your dorm room and off campus. It is nothing personal, it is business (this is a great phrase to get accustomed to by the way) Less money, more problems. You have been warned.

No means no

Understand this. No means no, yes means yes. Sexual intercourse without mutual consent is rape, and it is not something to play with. Cases like Brock Turner‘s – where an athlete was sentenced to 6 months for raping a young lady – will never happen at an HBCU. Men and women alike will be held accountable. There are no blurred lines here. If you blur these lines, understand that there is no amount of money in the world you can pay, no excuse you can come up with, or no parent-connection or favor you can cash in. Nobody wants to hear that you didn’t hold your liquor and nobody cares what you thought you heard. No means no. You have been warned.

Freshman

HBCU Freshman Bible: 5 Reasons Freshmen Should Not Have a Car On Campus

Brittany Ireland

Posted on Jun 21, 2016

Freshman year will be the time of your life; you are away from home and all the rules you have ever known, amongst thousands of your peers, and you have the freedom to move about as you please. You will find yourself busy getting acclimated to your HBCUs campus culture and making memories that will last you a lifetime.

As you pack to head off for the year, we encourage you to leave one prized possession behind. It has 4 wheels, a horn, and it is foreign if you’re fancy – your car. Having a car on campus will prevent you from fully embracing life as a freshman and here are five reasons why:

Gas money

Having gas money is a worry you do not need. Though gas prices have been significantly reduced lately, there will be plenty of time later in life to fill up the car of your choosing. Also, money for gas is not the not the only expense associated with having a car on campus, simply maintaining a car is expensive! Leave your car at home.

Car Accidents

There is a reason why insurance companies charge more for those under the age of 25 – this group is proven to be the most irresponsible when behind the wheel of a car. Taking your car with you to campus, where you know you are likely to be surrounded by other “newer” drivers, is not wise. Avoid an accident, leave your car at home.

Freshman 15 is real

Freshman 15 is no myth, it happens! One of the easiest ways to stay fit and avoid packing on pounds includes walking everywhere you can. How can you do this by driving ? You can’t. Don’t let your car enable your laziness. Leave your car at home.

Parking

Many campuses are not equipped with a plethora of parking lots, and as freshmen, you fall to the bottom of the totem pole. Chances are, if your HBCU even sells parking passes, they began doing so last year, so the faculty, staff, and upperclassmen have first dibs, and there may not even be any left. Many HBCUs won’t even sell freshmen parking passes because they simply do not encourage freshmen having cars on campus. If you are attending schools in a city or heavily-populated town, parking will be limited and you will find tickets in abundance. $25 – $100 tickets add up. Next thing you know, you are ready to cross the stage and graduate but you may or may not be able to until you pay your campus tickets. Leave your car at home.

Designated Driver

Have you heard the infamous lyrics to legend Christopher “Biggie Smalls” Wallace’s song :

d*mn, n***s wanna stick me for my paper!

..the same can be said about having a car on campus. You don’t want to be the one invited everywhere simply because you have a car. Trust, you do not want to your college career to pass you by with you being the designated driver. Take an Uber, Lyft, Taxi, or put tax dollars to good use and hop on public transportation. Leave your car at home.

Freshman

HBCU Freshman Bible: Entrepreneurs, 5 Ways to Network on a Black College Campus

Tasheda Green

Posted on Jun 21, 2016

New supplies, new clothes, new start. Freshman year is a chance to redefine yourself, to challenge assumptions, and for young entrepreneurs, it’s a way to lay the foundation for the rest of your life. Here are 5 top ways (in no particular order) on how to network on a Black college campus.

Social Media is your friend…Use it!

BELCHATOW POLAND - MAY 02 2013: Modern white keyboard with colored social network buttons. — BELCHATOW POLAND – MAY 02 2013: Modern white keyboard with colored social network buttons.

As a student, you are probably using social media already. Most students have a Facebook page, and more and more are using Twitter, Instagram and other sites to connect. As you begin building a professional network, it’s time to take a step back and think about social media and how you use it as a networking technique. If a potential employer or new connection visited your social media page, would you be happy with what they found? Keep your profile and interactions professional. That means it may be time for an upgrade, or the removal of certain posts or photos. When connecting with someone you have not met personally, your profile will shape their early impressions.

AWAY GAMES – Network With Other Schools

Who says you have to stay on campus to build an empire? Networking at different schools is a wonderful way to getting ones brand out. Take advantage of this opportunity by interacting with other student bodies while attending a basketball, football or even a baseball games. You may end up surprising yourself after all.

Use the Student Card

By all means when you are out at social events and you’re introducing yourself to others, there may be many advantages from attending your HBCU. Powerful connections are closer than you think, and being able to communicate is a MAJOR KEY. Throughout your networking career, you will need to tell your story in a variety of ways. Imagine that you were in an elevator with a recruiter and had only 30 seconds between floors to sell yourself, what would you say? You never know when a networking opportunity may arise, so develop some sort of pitch based on your introductory essentials. It will be invaluable during career fairs and other large-scale networking events, but will also come in handy during early conversations with a new contact.

Don’t wait until graduation

As you are on your way out the door into the real world, one big mistake that many soon to be college grads make is waiting until it’s too late to start networking with others. While there is really no set time or deadline to network, the sooner you get to it, the better. Keep in mind that you’re not the only one who is out here chasing a dream or trying to secure a job. Building a professional relationship takes more than 3 weeks, and is something that could benefit you in the long run if done correctly and not last minute, nothing that is rushed will never work.

Do an Internship, EVERY SUMMER

With the end of the semester approaching, the summer job search is in full swing. Students are frantically preparing for finals, planning living arrangements, and deciding where to work for the next four months. The benefits of a summer internship can sometimes get overlooked. While a paid job has immediate, tangible benefits, an internship opportunity also has positive, long-term outcomes. Employers are much more likely to hire college graduates who have had an internship over students who may just have a college degree. Whether you’re a graduating senior hoping to gain practical work experience before heading into the career field, or a freshman looking to add experience to your résumé, an internship is the way to go.

Freshman

HBCU Freshman Bible: 5 Ways To Get Involved on Campus

Sonia Montalvo

Posted on Jun 21, 2016

National-Day-of-Service-MLK-Day-Project-Ideas-For-College-Students

When you step on campus in August, you’ll officially be a freshman! Long hard road to get to this point, but you did it. Once on campus you’ll be eager to make new friends, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be wondering how to do so. With so many ways to interact with the rest of your student body, it may be a little awkward at first to find a niche, but go for it anyways, you’ll be surprised at the doors it will open for you. Below are 5 ways to get involved on campus.

Join the Student Activities Committee

Every school has a Student Activities Committee or SAC, that helps to put together Homecoming, Spring fest, and every other student event on campus. Joining Sac will help you to not only meet others, but to have a voice in how student events are put together. Plus if your SAC is poppin’, you might be able to get into big events for free, but don’t let that be the only reason you join, there’s a lot of work that comes with it.

Apply for work-study

It sounds boring, but really hear me out. Work study can not only help you to pay off some of those student loans (or put money in your pocket, but really pay of those loans, trust me,) but it will give you a chance to make connections with students and faculty in different departments (which comes in handy when you need those letters of recommendation.) It’s also a chance to gain some experience before you enter the post-graduation working world.

Run for SGA

SGA or Student Government Association, is probably one of the hardest working entities on campus. They are the ones who make sure you’re properly represented to the admin of your college or university. Not only are they hard working, but they’re well recognized, and they enjoy their positions. Running for SGA, gives you a platform to run a campaign, and brand yourself. It also gives others the opportunity to see your talents and capabilities.

Do Community Service

Again, it may sound boring, but I promise community service is probably the most fulfilling experience you’ll have if you choose to partake in it. Each and every university has a community relations organization, where their main objective is to give back to the community the university lives in. Whether its park clean up, feeding the homeless, or reading to kids at the libraries; all of it helps to better the area you’re getting your education in.

Join some clubs and orgs

At the beginning of every semester, Your University puts on a clubs and orgs day. Every single club and organization from a-z will be there trying to recruit you to join and tell you about their mission. Visit every table and see what works for you. Some you’ll like, some you won’t, but you’ll never know unless you try. Get out there and see what your school has to offer.

Buzzing News

Bennett College Raises Over $720,000 During Alumnae Weekend

HBCU Editors

Posted on Jun 20, 2016

Many alumnae came together at Bennett College this weekend reminiscing about life at Bennett College, trading stories on the college’s traditions and rekindling bonds formed during their early years in college.

The group also came together to raise funds for the college. More than $724,000 was raised during Bennett College National Alumnae Association Alumnae Weekend. Among the gifts were $80,000 from the class of 1966, the 50th year class, and a $50,000 donation from former Philadelphia Councilwoman and Alumna Marian B. Tasco, a member of Bennett Class of 1960. “Alumnae Weekend is our homecoming and is a very special time of the year for our Alumnae,” said Bennett College National Alumnae Association President Deborah Love. “Our love for our Alma Mater is greatly demonstrated by our continuous support with our time, talent and treasure.”

“Our alumnae are very proud of the Bennett College experience and they show their appreciation through their financial support,” said Bennett College President Rosalind Fuse-Hall. “We are extremely proud of our alumnae and their level of support.”

The surprise gift came from Tasco, who served the 9th District in Philadelphia as a city council woman for seven consecutive terms. The idea surfaced during her retirement celebration that was held in December 2015. Tasco told the more than 1,200 elected officials, labor leaders, community leaders and constituents then that any net proceeds remaining from the celebration would be donated to Bennett College. Tasco, formerly national president of the Bennett College National Alumnae Association, presented the college with a check totaling $50,000 at its All-Bennett Luncheon during its Alumnae Weekend.

“My heart remains with Bennett College,” said Tasco. “The only reason I left Bennett was I could not afford to pay the tuition.”

Tasco was the daughter of a single teenage mother who was raised by her grandmother. “I lived in Greensboro and grew up on the campus of Bennett College,” said Tasco. “I really wanted to stay there, but just did not have the money. I am hoping that the donation will help to provide scholarship dollars for young ladies with similar backgrounds so that they can complete their education.”

Advice

HBCU Freshman Bible: 5 Books You Need To Read To Learn About Black Fraternities And Sororities On Campus

Tommy G. Meade Jr.

Posted on Jun 20, 2016

Sitting in the Joe Crowley Student, one of the Kappa Alpha Psi brothers, Elijah Robertson, concentrate on filling out papers giving them the ability to stay on campus.

One of the first things incoming students see when arriving on campus at an historically black college or university, or HBCU, is trees and benches painted with symbolic colors and the helping hand from a member of the “Divine 9” black fraternities and sororities, who chose to come back to school a week ahead to help out with freshman orientation this year. Six of the nine Black Greek Lettered Organizations (BGLOs) were founded on the campuses of HBCUs, and there’s no better time to explore the history and legacy of these incredible organizations committed to a lifetime of service to the community.

In no particular order, here’s a list of books to read before, during, and after your black college experience especially if those of you are wanting to become a member of these organizations.

I am a Sigma Gamma Rho Legacy by Tiffany A. Flowers

Based on a young lady who decides to become a Sigma Gamma Rho legacy by joining her mother’s sorority when she attends college, this book is sure to help you get an idea of what college was like for your mother, and most importantly, help you make an important decision on which black sorority is best for you.

The Divine Nine: The History of African American Fraternities and Sororities by Lawrence C. Ross

Written by one of the country’s leading experts on black fraternities and sororities, Lawrence C. Ross tells how BGLOs have played a (HUGE) role in shaping the nation since the 20^th century.

In Search of Sisterhood: Delta Sigma Theta and the Challenge of the Black Sorority Movement by Paula J. Giddings

A book about sisterhood, women’s rights and “the increasing involvement of black women in the political, social, and economic affairs of America,” according to the book’s summary, this book by Giddings will help you discover the history of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and much more.

African American Fraternities and Sororities: The Legacy and the Vision by Tamara L. Brown

What do these names—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Toni Morrison, Arthur Ashe, Carol Moseley Braun, Bill Cosby, Sarah Vaughan, George Washington Carver, Hattie McDaniel, and Bobby Rush—all have in common? They are among the many trailblazing members of black fraternities and sororities, which Brown explores in her book focusing on BGLO’s legacy and vision.

Black Greek 101: The Culture, Customs, and Challenges of Black Fraternities and Sororities by Walter M. Kimbrough

The definitive book on black Greek culture, Kimbrough, who is also the leader of historically black Dillard University, takes a look at the customs, culture, and challenges facing these organizations in his incredible and well-written book Black Greek 101. A must read for anyone serious in learning more about the history and importance of black fraternities and sororities.

Advice

HBCU Freshman Bible: 7 Ways To Calculate College Spending That Won’t Hurt Your Pockets

Jasmine Mosley

Posted on Jun 20, 2016

Freshman year can be overwhelming. Besides living away from your family for the first time and learning campus life, understanding how to spend your funds can be even more stressful. With so many unknowns, cultivating a budget should be your top priority.

Think of your budget as a financial bible to guide you as you purchase items pertinent to your college education.

As your freshman year fly’s by quickly, it will become easier to understand how to allocate funds. Here are some tips to help kick start your financial planning.

Maximize Outside Funds

If you are a scholarship and, or student loan recipient, determine how the money should be spent. If the scholarship funds are ear marked for a specific item such as (books, room and board), be sure to use the funds as specified. However, if you have received a scholarship and/or loan with general specifications, use this as an opportunity to maximize the monies greatest potential.

Determine your greatest need, (housing, food plan and/or other school necessities) and use the funds there to make sure those items are covered.

Establish Income

It’s always helpful when a college student can establish income. Whether you locate a part time job, work study or paid internship, finding a way to establish a stream of revenue will always help with everyday needs. If you happen to be gifted in styling or cutting hair, be sure to broadcast your talents and watch an influx of class mates request your services.

Write the Plan and Make it Plain

Regardless of the goal, preparation is key to finding any form of success. Create a spread sheet and itemize your day to day operational needs. For example, (groceries, clothing, transportation, etc.)

Planning your expected expenses, will help you remain organized and aid in limiting the threat of a negative account balance.

To provide context, if you are the fortunate freshman with a car, log how much you plan to spend on a weeks worth of gas. To stay within budget, you may need to occasionally turn down free rides to friends. After you create the plan, stick to it and try not to deviate from your budget.

Also, accidents may happen, so it’s always nice to incorporate a savings plan as well, just in case you overspend.

Determine What is Important

It isn’t necessary to attend every party and event on campus. If you do not have $20 to spare on an entry fee, save your money.

There will be countless of other parties to attend during your collegiate career. Have you met friends that love to shop every weekend? Take a rain check sometimes.

The most important goal here is to avoid spending an unnecessary amount of money, when you know the funds can be placed to better use. (Honestly, as a freshman there is much more fun on campus, geared specifically for you.)

Freshman year is a bonding year, so get to know your class mates and have fun together without breaking the bank.

If you Want it, Save for It

Many freshman can quickly become attracted to campus organizations and the events that are held. For example, if you know for a fact you desire to enter a pageant, please understand that pageants cost money. Many pageant contestant’s will attest that their participation not only took commitment, but also required funding.

Again, save your money for events such as these, so that you are prepared.

Start Now for a Brighter Future

Calculating what works best for you will not only help you survive college, but it will also prepare you for the real world.

Upon graduation, establishing a financial plan will become even more crucial. Use your freshman year and every year after, as a crash course in developing accountability and responsibility.

Nothing is more gratifying than being able to take adequate care of yourself and not having to call home for rescue!

Advice

HBCU Freshman Bible: 10 Do’s and Don’ts When Trying To Impress The Ladies

Chymere A. Hayes

Posted on Jun 20, 2016

gentlemen1 — #GentlemanTuesday on the campus of NCAT

Orientation season is winding down, and incoming freshmen are starting to feel the butterflies of venturing off into this new chapter full of possibilities, opportunities, a new environment, and new people. If no one hasn’t warned you by now, attending an historically black college or university (HBCU) is going to be a compilation of some of the best years of your life, both academically and socially, and the individuals you encounter from this point on are going to have a huge influence on how these next 4-5 years go.

Of course, a part of that excitement is all the girls you’ll be exposed to. With that being said, I would like to hip the handsome HBCU rookie men to game of how to impress the ladies. Here’s some tips, told from a woman’s point of view.

Prove that chivalry is not dead.

Being from the South, I wasn’t aware that it wasn’t a common practice to open doors and give up seats for women as signs of respect. When I came to college, I realized that people were simply raised differently than me and probably didn’t know how to be gentlemen, or how to recognize a gentleman. Without expecting things in return (because women can be rude sometimes), be the guy that stands out simply by doing things to show that you have manners and respect.

Just be honest.

The most obvious rule of thumb when trying to impress anyone is to just be honest. Sometimes we tend to go into situations with facades, only to end up in drama we can’t get out of. If you don’t want a relationship, don’t lead anyone to believe otherwise, and if you just want to have fun and explore options, be very clear about that.

Intelligence is very attractive.

Book smarts may have been “lame” in high school, but intelligence is very attractive in college.

We’re all here for the same reason, which is to get an education. Go to class, study, be ambitious, study together. It’s LIT!

Plan creative dates

If there is a girl that you actually like, plan creative dates. Some people are fortunate enough to come to college with loads of money; for most college students, that’s not the case.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t literally maximize a dollar and have a good time.

Research fun, inexpensive things to do in the area and on campus that would get you closer to getting to know her.

hbcu-engagement-session-ncat-howard-university_0001(pp_w880_h588) — Jerrod & Tinita. Photo cred. Terri Baskin

Don’t be a doormat!

Contrary to popular belief, girls really do like genuinely nice guys. It’s okay to be kind and show respect, but never allow people to take advantage of you in the process.

#GentlemanTuesdays

This is a beautiful tradition that began on the campus of the illustrious North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where young men on campus were encouraged to dress in business attire at least once a week.

I can only hope that this is a “thing” across the board, because any woman can appreciate seeing a man in a suit.

Show off your talents and skills.

How? Get involved!

This can include sports, the arts (music, spoken word, painting, etc.), community service, modeling, and so forth. There are so many amazing opportunities on campus to utilize and expand upon any special gift you may have.

Don’t be shy!

Good hygiene is important.

Although this should be number 1 in the book of common sense, but good hygiene is important. Fresh breath, hints…and I do mean HINTS…of cologne, maintaining a neat appearance, and other general things to take pride in yourself.

First-Kiss-HBCU-4 — Photo cred. First Kiss: HBCU Edition 2015. short film by @HippieHangout

If you are sexually active, always practice safe sex. Use protection and always take advantage of free HIV testing clinics at your respective institution, no matter how “bad” the person is or how much you think you like/love them. Safety is a very important element of good hygiene.

Be able to hold an intelligent conversation.

While being an active listener, not only is communication is key, but it let’s these young women know that you see her beyond just her looks. You made it this far, so obviously you know how to engage in good conversation.

Not everyone is super outgoing and sociable, but in college, you’ll find your groove, eventually.

When the right people come along, you’ll know how to keep the dialogue flowing and interesting.

Be yourself.

spelhouseprideweek — SpelHouse Pride Week Promo Shoot 2014. source.

The most important thing is to be yourself.

Authenticity wins every single time. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to fit in or impress others.

People will naturally gravitate towards you when you are 100% who you are, even though you’re still trying to figure that out.