Page 370 – HBCU Buzz

Hampton University Track & Field Shows Out At Hampton Relays

Posted on Apr 19, 2016

Saturday, April 19, Hampton University hosted their historic Hampton University Relays with last year’s relay being their first in seven years. The relays called for some of the greatest athletes in high school, college, and the professional level to showcase their talents!

Hampton’s Men’s and Women’s team won a combine total of 9 events at the relays. With the men winning five events, and the women winning four.

Former Hampton Track & Field standout, now current Olympian and World Champion Francena McCorory put on a “sprint showcase” winning the 200m in a stellar time 23.2. She will continue her intense training as she prepares for the 2016 Olympics in Rio, Brazil this summer. She trains at Hampton University alongside the Hampton team with her coach who was also her coach during her tenure at Hampton.

We were able to sit down and talk with Tavyon Burris, one of the team’s new and strong assets to the Men’s Middle Distance Program.

Prior to coming to Hampton, Burris was 5x State Champion hailing from Virginia. He defended his state title his senior year, while also earning a silver medal that same year in the 1,000 meter run, breaking the school record. He was ranked Top 25 in Virginia and was also titled Emerging Elite National Champion in the 800-meter run.

We ask Burris about his personal performance and team performance at the Hampton Relays:

“I’ve been performing pretty fair during the outdoor season. I’m qualified for conference already but I’m holding myself to much higher goals this season. Moving forward from HU relays I’m looking forward to dropping a nice time next week at Morgan State then preparing myself for Penn Relays. As a team, we’ve had some great performances thus far and some are still putting pieces together surely. We just need to stay focused on our goals & remain discipline through the long season.”

We asked him about training along side an Olympian and how it affects his performance at practice, he stated:

“Having Francena at our practice definitely drives a positive, inspirational feeling in the air. Knowing what she’s accomplished here at Hampton and seeing her succeed on the world level definitely gives me some motivation to not settle for less. But to keep striving to be able to do what she’s been able to do. I definitely want to be the best.” Burris said.

In recent years an issue that has arose with college athletes have them not being prepared for the collegiate level so we asked Burris about the transition from high school success to Division 1 Track:

“The transition from high school to D1 Track was without a doubt one of the most difficult transitions I’ve made lol. From morning practice, to time management, to two a days, not to mention the workouts are significantly more difficult. But I’m more than motivated for the challenge, especially when I have such great teammates that push me everyday. When there’s a group of dedicated and talented athletes you can expect the job to get done. ” Burris said.

The conversation ended with speaking on the topic of Coach to Athlete Relationships and the Team’s relationship as a whole, a key asset to the success of the athlete and team:

“I can honestly say that I have coaches that care about me, not just on the track but as a person. We have a staff that has been through what we’re currently going through so they know what it takes. So when my coach see’s something that I need to fix I can trust that he knows what he’s talking about. As a team, I’m always seeing uplift from one another whenever something isn’t going as expected. Or whenever someone needs a little motivation we have leaders that brings the team together and insure that we keep our minds on track. ”

Hampton University has their sights set on a successful season, and the future is definitely bright for Burris. The team is now preparing to compete at fellow HBCU “sibling-school” Morgan State University. To stay updated the progress of the team, direct your attention to the Hampton University Athletics Website.

News

Dr. T. Ramon Stuart Named Fort Valley State University Provost

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 19, 2016

Fort Valley State University appoints Dr. T. Ramon Stuart, as the new provost of the university. The president said he is confident in Stuart’s passion, talent and ability to serve as the university’s chief academic officer. He will begin his duties on May 16 replacing former provost Dr. Jessica Bailey, who retired from FVSU in January 2016. Stuar is a veteran higher education administrator from West Virginia State University (WVSU) where he is the associate provost and associate vice president for academic affairs.

“I’m thrilled we have such a qualified individual to serve with us as we move the university forward,” said Fort Valley State University president Dr. Paul Jones

According to FVSU News

FVSU’s new provost said he was honored and humbled to be selected after a nationwide search.

“I am excited to join the faculty, academic leaders, staff and students of Fort Valley State University under the leadership of President Jones,” Stuart said. “I look forward to working collaboratively with various constituents throughout the university as we work diligently to achieve the mission of the institution while taking the necessary steps to make Fort Valley State University one of the premier 1890 land-grant institutions in the nation.”

Buzzing News

FAMU Pharmacy Leading In Funded Research

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 19, 2016

FAMU College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (COPPS) is leading nationally in medical research, not just for HBCU’s. COOPS is listed as the No. 12 pharmacy program in the nation for generating the most research funding by Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research and the largest recipient of National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grants among all Florida pharmacy programs by the Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP).

“I am extremely proud of our faculty, administration, graduate students, and our research office assistants as we do our part to keep FAMU in its rightful place as a national leader in medical research and in training the next generation of pharmaceutical scientists and pharmacy professionals,” said COPPS Dean Michael D. Thompson, Pharm.D. According to FAMU News

Recent Pharmacy Grants Through the NIH

The FAMU-TCC Bridges to the Baccalaureate in the Biomedical Sciences Program received a total of $1,887,755 or $399,699 annually over five years in NIH-National Institute of General Medical Sciences funding. The Bridges program is intended to enhance the pool of community college students from diverse backgrounds nationally underrepresented in biomedical and behavioral sciences that go on to research careers in the biomedical and behavioral sciences as well as participation in NIH-funded research.

The FAMU P20 Center of Excellence for Cancer Research, Training and Community Service received the NIH-National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities grant for $5,443,319 in total or $980,609 per year across a five-year period. The P20 COE program’s overall goal and objective is to develop innovative cancer research (breast and lung) utilizing an interdisciplinary and synergistic approach toward addressing some of the most significant health consequences in minority and socioeconomic disadvantaged populations.

The P20 Florida Minority Cancer Research and Training Center (MiCaRT) received $692,088 or $177,045 across a four-year period in NIH-National Cancer Institute funding. MiCaRT is the state’s first and only National Cancer Institute P20-funded minority institution/cancer center partnership focused on cancer research and training for African-Americans.

The Support of Competitive Research (SCORE) had multiple SCORE SC1 (NIH-National Cancer Institute) awardees. Nazarius Lamango, Ph.D., as principal investigator, received a $1,351,400 award over a four-year period for his research, “Disrupting Polyisoprenylated Protein Function for Lung Cancer Therapy.” Mandip Sachdeva, Ph.D., principal investigator, received $1,156,275 over a four-year period for his research, “Targeted Nanocarriers for Treatment of Lung Cancer.”

The College also received funding under the SCORE SC2 Award (NIH-National Cancer Institute). The SC2 mechanism provides early stage investigators the opportunity to test a new idea, or gather preliminary data to establish a new line of research. It also allows more experienced investigators to switch to a different research area from the one in which they have been engaged and published. Syreeta Tilghman, Ph.D., as principal investigator, was awarded $126,071.

The Innovative Programs to Enhance Research Training (IPERT) program is designed to support stages of research career development from the undergraduate to the faculty level. IPERT complements the research training and research education programs at Florida A&M University. Shawn Spencer, Ph.D., principal investigator, and Carl B. Goodman, Ph.D., as co-principal investigator, were awarded $2,541,585 total, or $527,517 annually for this program.

The R21 (NIH-National Cancer Institute) grant was awarded to Mandip Sachdeva, Ph.D., principal investigator, in the amount of $340,901 or $182,126 over a two-year period for his research on the “Role of Telmisartan on Intra-Tumoral Distribution of Targeted Nanoparticles.” The grant is intended to encourage exploratory/developmental research by providing support for the early and conceptual stages of project development.

News

10 Powerful Women Who Attended Spelman College

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

Spelman College was founded 135 years ago today. Initially funded by the John D. Rockefeller family, the school was opened as a place of higher learning for Black women in Atlanta. Since it’s opening on April 11, 1881, Spelman College has served as one of the top private colleges in the nation.

In honor of Spelman’s Founder’s Day, we highlight 10 powerful women who attended Spelman College.

Alice Walker

Before beginning an accomplished career as a writer, Alice Walker received a full scholarship to Spelman College in 1961. She eventually became a vocal member of the burgeoning Civil Rights movement in Atlanta before finishing her college career at Sarah Lawrence College.

Rosalind Brewer

Rosalind Brewer earned a degree in chemistry from Spelman in 1984 before attending Stanford Law School. She began her career as a scientist before becoming the president of Walmart East. She is currently the CEO of Sam’s Club and the first Black woman to ever hold such a position.

Esther Rolle

Actress Esther Rolle began her college studies at Spelman College in 1942. She eventually transferred to Yale before becoming a staple on Broadway and starring in the TV classic, “Good Times.”

Greeks

WATCH – Beta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Spring 2016 Probate at Southern University

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA. From a filming/Editing Standpoint…this is probably the best probate that I’ve done ever. hopefully i’ll continue to get better.

Greeks

WATCH – Alpha Phi Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Spring 2016 Probate at Howard University

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

46253 Alpha Phi chapter, Howard University, March 31, 2016

Greeks

WATCH – Alpha Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha at Howard University Probate 2016

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

The 2016 Plot Day presented by The ALPHA Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. at Howard University. This is a video revealing the newest members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., at Howard University, in the Spring of 2016

Greeks

WATCH – Delta Sigma Theta SP16 Probate Tuskegee University

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

Delta Sigma Theta SP16 Probate Tuskegee University

Greeks

WATCH – Zeta Beta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Probate at PVAMU 2016

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Probate at Prairie View A&M University, Spring 2016 K.S. Outkasts @zoo_boyz @mikedamotivator @threadersvillage @pvanupes @WATCHTHEYARD

Editorial

Warning to HBCU Grads Planning to Attend PWI’s For Grad School

Mariah Hickman

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

Lawrence Ross, author of “Blackballed: The Black and White Politics of Race on America’s Campuses,” warned HBCU grads planning to attend PWI’s that the overall message on these campuses across America is “you don’t belong.”

Though Ross has been lecturing on “The Divine Nine,” for 15 plus years, he said he noticed that over the last five years students of color shared common feelings of isolation and alienation at PWIs. As he began his research he soon realized that this was not a new trend.

“Systematic racism equals societal cancer,”

said Ross, and Americans do not like to address or change either. He said he noticed that most predominately white institutions deal with racial tensions in the same way with what he refers to as “three ‘izes’ equals a miss.”

With any campus racism incident the first step is to individualize the situation said Ross. This is to assure the public that the situation is uncommon and they have no need to worry. Ross said the second step was to minimize the situation. This step is to let the public know that despite what they saw with their eyes and heard with their ears, a racism problem does not exist. When the issue at hand cannot be stopped with the first two steps, Ross said the final step is to trivialize the situation by making excuses or blaming others. With this final step the concerns of black students are dismissed. “You do not belong,” said Ross.

In addressing campus racism Ross evaluated four areas: anti-affirmative action laws, campus symbolism, IFC fraternities and PanHellenic sororities (predominately white fraternities and sororities) and racial micro-aggressions.

Anti-Affirmative Action Laws

Affirmative action refers to “admission policies that provide equal access to education for those groups who have been historically excluded or underrepresented such as women and minorities,” said Ross. Because it has been demonized over the years people don’t actually understand what it means said Ross.

Several cases have gone before the Supreme Court to get rid of affirmative action. So many that two states now have initiatives to ban it. California has Proposition 209 and Michigan has a similar anti-affirmative action law which both ban the use of race in admission policies.

Campus Symbolism

“Symbolism matters,” said Ross. He gave several examples of statues, names of residence halls and campus buildings that commemorate openly racist individuals. Campus vandalism is becoming a growing concern such as the Omega Psi Phi memorial rock vandalized at James Madison University. Paying close attention and petitioning for the removal of these openly racist names and symbols is critical because they paint the picture that “you do not belong.”

Predominately White Fraternities and Sororities

Predominately white fraternities and sororities continually perpetuate the racism found on college campuses. Many of the “origins of their (predominately white fraternities and sororities) organizations are centered around race.” For example frat boys at the University of Oklahoma chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon were caught on tape singing “there will never be a n**** in SAE.” Overt racism that says “you do not belong.”

Racial Micro-Aggressions

Ross said there are two types of people in the world: race averse vs. rave aware students.

Race averse people look at the world as not having race problems and are blind to their privilege said Ross. Race aware people, on the other hand, pay close attention to racial tensions and racial make-up.

This combination leaves black students feeling left out and alienated: as though they’re invited to the party, but not having fun said Ross. In other words “you do not belong.”

Ending Racism

Ross encouraged students to stand up and speak up because he said, “silence is violence.” Use your skills and knowledge to make an impact on racism. Humble yourself and empathize. As students of color, Ross said it is important keep in mind the concept of intersectionality so that we don’t silence other voices.

If you choose to go to a PWI remember that you have as much of a right to that campus as anybody else. “Just because we term it PWI does not mean they own it,” said Ross. Demand your space and fight for your rights.

News

HBCU Band Directors Attend High School Recruitment Fair

Monique Mansfield

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

HBCU band alumni and supporters will soon be seeing some new faces in various university band programs in the fall. On Saturday, April 9, band directors from four different universities attended a recruitment fair and forum held at Washington-Marion High School in Lake Charles, Louisiana. There was representation from Alcorn State University, Prairie View A&M University, Southern University and Texas Southern University. The high school students who took part in this event were from East St. John High School in Reserve, LA, Northwest High School in Opelousas, LA, and Washington-Marrion High School.

This was the inaugural year for what will soon become an annual college band day at the high school. “We plan to have the event a little earlier next year so we can include more directors from different schools,” said Tamekia Holliday, director of bands at Washington-Marion High School. In collaboration with Demetrius Gatewood, the Washington-Marion band alumni came up with the idea to host the forum and recruitment event to promote band in the African American community, where it seems to lack the most.

This event included a panel discussion held by the Washington-Marion band staff which focused on the benefits of attending an HBCU, the importance of band in high school, and how budget cuts affect the band in college. After the college band representatives elaborated on these topics, students were given the opportunity to ask questions. The directors also gave a brief description of the band programs at their respective universities and talked about the requirements to become a member of the band.

The discussion lasted a half hour and after it concluded, nineteen high school seniors auditioned and were awarded roughly $120,000 in scholarships. “This event benefits the students because it opens up their minds to other possibilities rather just going towards school that they are already familiar with. It is also used as a motivational tool for the students,” said Holliday.

This event not only benefited the students, it was also an asset to the to the college directors as they continue to build their programs for the fall band season. The overall message from the university directors to the students, was to use band as an outlet to stay out of trouble and get ahead in life. With the help of the alumni, staff, college directors, parents and students, the college band day was successful.

Sports

Alcorn State Women Wins SWAC Tennis Championship

HBCU Editors

Posted on Apr 18, 2016

NEW ORLEANS – Alcorn State captured the programs’ fourth SWAC Women’s Tennis Championship with a 4-2 victory over Jackson State on Sunday, April 17 at City Park/Pepsi Tennis Center. This is the Braves’ first title since the 2008 season.

Jackson State clinched the doubles point with Bright Phakamad and Karina Ono defeated Aida Kelic and Ivana Boberic, 6-3, at No. 2 doubles. The Tigers’ Julia Angermann and Anastasia Zviahintseva won at No. 1 position 6-2 over Ekaterina Potapova and Sibohan Ryan-Bovey.

Alcorn State’s duo of Aakanksha Punj and Marlene Maier defeated Daria Butorino and Rebekah Adewumi, 6-4, at No. 3 doubles.

Jackson State went up 2-0 with Phakamad defeating Klavdija Bukovic, 6-0, 6-2, at No. 4 singles.
Alcorn State came back to capture four-straight battles in the other singles matches. Kelic collected a 6-2, 6-2, win over Angermann at No. 1 singles while Boberic won 6-2, 2-6, 6-4 at No. 2 singles over Daria Boberic.

At No. 5 singles, Potapova defeated Akshantha Ananth, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2, while Maier bested Ono at the No. 6 match, 2-6, 6-2, 6-2.

Alcorn State’s Marlene Maier was named Tournament Most Valuable Player, while Braves’ head Coach Anthony Dodgen was named SWAC Women’s Tennis Coach of the Year.

Both Jackson State and Alcorn State had three players named to the SWAC All-Tournament team. Southern also had two honorees on the All-Tournament Team.

2016 SWAC All-Tournament Team
Anastasia Zviahintseva, Jackson State
Bright Phakamad, Jackson State
Karina Ono, Jackson State
Ivana Boberic, Alcorn State
Ekaterina Potapova, Alcorn State
Marlene Maier, Alcorn State
Amanda Materre, Southern
Rufaro Chirewa, Southern

Tournament MVP: Marlene Maier, Alcorn State
Coach of the Year: Anthony Dodgen, Alcorn State

Fashion

10 Spring Fashion Trends You Might See On An HBCU Campus

Jasmine Mosley

Posted on Apr 17, 2016

Spring is here and so are new fashion trends that will usher in new ways to express your personal style. Whether you like to dress for comfort or are ready to compete for best dressed, these trendy options could be seen worn by your classmates this spring semester!

Make a Statement

Does God is Dope sound familiar, or Blacker the College Sweeter the Knowledge ring a bell? If so, you’ve seen someone with this bold statement apparel or may own a few items yourself. Statement clothing is a widely popular trend that doesn’t seem ready to slow down. Many people are expressing their stance on a range of topics, such as religion (Kingdom Native), birthplace (Cruvie Clothing), political views (Black Lives Matter) and much more. Even celebrities and companies have picked up on the idea of creating clothing as messaging at the forefront.

“Jesus Walks”

Ok not really, but strap sandals have been jokingly, deemed the “Jesus sandals”. Like it or not, strap sandals have made a comeback and there are tons of fashionable choices to choose from. These sandals are perfect for casual outings and can be quite the beauty if paired correctly with the perfect outfit.

Loafers

Contrary to popular belief, loafers can be worn year-round and with the many new spins on the shoe, there is no reason why they shouldn’t be in your closet. Loafers are also versatile, they can be styled as casual as you desire or worn to your next office meeting. Also, this shoe don’t discriminate, both men, women and even children can enjoy the sleekness of the loafer!

The Fedora Hat

The fedora has become an integral part of the wardrobe. It can enhance your look by light years to give you a sleek and clean look. Men and women alike are flocking to their favorite store’s for fedora hats, which come in all types of fabrics and colors. Even celebrities such as Pharrell and more recently 2 Chaniz, have taken the fedora to the next level. This spring, expect to see more versions of the fedora!

Fringe is Fun!

Ladies, fringe accessories and clothing are making a splash! Frindge skirts, handbags, shoes and accessories can add some pizzazz to your outfit. It is perfect for girls night out, concert fun and any other special event!

Pumps and Straps

The perfect pedicure plus a sexy pump is most definitely date night approved. This sultry work of shoe art is a “must have.” Every woman should be able to pull out these heels to spice up your wardrobe or add the perfect touch to a figure pleasing dress.

Round Lens Aviators

This new version of aviator sunglasses are making a huge breakthrough as the new stylish lens, perfect for everyone. They exude confidence and sophistication. Be sure to grab a pair online, your favorite shopping mall or even a thrift store.

Pastels

Along with Easter comes the heartwarming pastel color scheme! You can find these glorious colors in just about any style or type. Pastels match perfectly for an outdoor spring event, church, and brunch with friends. Don’t be afraid to add pastel fashion to your closet.

Florals

Floral prints are no longer for your mothers nice furniture. There are tons of beautiful floral print pumps, dresses and skirts that women have begun to flock too. Floral pieces can be worn to the endless weddings you have booked this summer or any other special occasion. Plus, pick out a color from the floral print to match your lipstick and watch your outfit come to life!

Gold is Bold

The newest treasures of today are right in front of you! Meaning, have you not seen the bodacious gold apparel and accessories lately? These gems are literally everywhere! Gold athletic wear, computer accessories, purses and other items are making grand entrances in just about every genre of fashion. Shine this spring and make a statement!

Buzz Killer

10 Cases of: ‘This Wouldn’t Happen At My HBCU’

Robert Hoggard

Posted on Apr 17, 2016

We have seen a great deal of bigotry and racism on Public White Institution (PWI) campuses. For those that argue we live in a post racial society, we created a list of hatred against African-Americans at PWIs to remind you we have a long journey ahead as it relates to addressing race relations in America. These incidents at PWI’s would not happen at an HBCU (Historically Black College and University).

April, 2016

According to The Root, “Jeffrey Allan Matthews Jr., (a 2015 graduate of Bridgewater College and a spring 2013 initiate of the Beta Delta Delta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi), passed away. On Saturday friends, classmates and fraternity brothers spent seven hours creating a memorial for him on “Spirit Rock,” a large stone in the middle of campus used as a communal space for campus events, rallies and activities. When they woke up Sunday morning, they found that someone had defaced the memorial by spray-painting over it with the words “#TrumpTrain” and “Trump 2016.””