NFL Executive and SC State Alumnus to be Commencement Keynote Speaker

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South Carolina State University has announced that distinguished alumnus Ted Crews, a member of the class of 1999 and NFL executive, will serve as the keynote speaker for the Fall 2024 Commencement Convocation. The ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, at 10 a.m. in the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center.

Chicago Bears coaches pose for a headshot at Halas Hall, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Lake Forest, Illinois.

Crews’ NFL Journey

Ted Crews is now a special advisor to the president/CEO and chief administrative officer for the Chicago Bears. He has an impressive background of over two decades in the NFL. His career is marked by exceptional leadership and dedication to effective communication in executive roles.

Throughout his esteemed career, Crews has played crucial roles in high-stakes NFL events, including Super Bowls and Pro Bowls, showcasing his expertise in sports management. Before joining the Bears in April 2024, he spent 12 years with the Kansas City Chiefs. He contributed to a communications strategy with the Chiefs that supported the team’s three Super Bowl championships.

Before the Cheifs, he spent three seasons as the senior director of communications for the St. Louis Rams from 2009 to 2011. He was the primary contact on football matters for ownership, the club’s general manager and head coach, and the team’s official spokesperson.

A Recognized Leader

 The Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation has recognized Crews, underscoring his work and success as a Black NFL executive.  In 2014, SC state recognized Crews with the Distinguished Young Alumnus Award, one of the school’s highest honors. 

Due to limited seating, SC State is restricting attendance to graduating students, their guests, faculty, staff, and special invitees. Overflow seating will be provided in the Fine Arts Building, and the ceremony will also be streamed live on the university’s Facebook page, allowing family and friends to join in the celebration remotely. 

HBCU Artist Spotlight, Tyler Carroll, Morehouse College

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Tyler Carroll, better known by his stage name “Muzix,” is an artist reshaping the landscape of the music industry while paving a unique path as a producer, songwriter, and audio engineer.

Tyler Carroll Mr. Muzik

Humble Beginnings

Born in Atlanta and raised in Lithonia, GA, Carroll’s musical journey began in the most humble of settings—by secretly teaching himself to play his father’s guitar. This spark ignited a passion for music, leading him to write his first songs and perform at significant milestones, including his high school graduation and a Morehouse College senior pinning ceremony.

Overcoming Obstacles

Despite facing significant challenges, including financial hardships that forced him to leave college, Carroll persevered. After a year and a half, he returned to Morehouse, where he completed his degree in physics and math. This academic foundation enriched his perspective and opened doors to new opportunities in the music industry and beyond.

Navigating the complexities of the music business, overcoming creative blocks, and managing the responsibilities of establishing ‘The Patch Publishing, LLC’ has tested his resilience and time management skills. Despite the doubts and setbacks, these challenges have fueled his determination and growth as an artist and entrepreneur.

“If the mountain was smooth, you wouldn’t be able to climb it,” he reflects, emphasizing the importance of overcoming challenges to find personal fulfillment.

Musician, Entrepreneur and Engineer

In January, Carrp;; officially launched The Patch Publishing, LLC—a venture designed to publish and promote his work while supporting fellow musicians and artists. His vision for the company includes creating a conglomerate that nurtures diverse talent and creativity within the industry. 

One of the defining moments in Carroll’s career came when he performed at the iconic ‘Whiskey A Go Go’ in West Hollywood. Opening for a mainstream artist at such a legendary venue was not just a dream come true. It was a profound milestone that showcased his talent and dedication. Traveling to California allowed him to expand his horizons, enriching his artistic journey and solidifying his commitment to music.

Carroll credits his time at Morehouse with being transformative. He says it helped him build a sense of community and discover his true self. While he didn’t major in music, the rich cultural environment encouraged him to pursue his passion alongside his studies, ultimately leading to a successful career as a nuclear engineer. This dual path has provided him with the stability necessary to pursue his dreams in music wholeheartedly.

What’s Next for Muzik

Looking ahead, Muzix is set to release his highly anticipated album, ‘HOUZEPARTY,’ which promises to showcase his evolution as an artist unbound by genre. With The Patch Publishing, LLC supporting his vision, Carroll is ready to take the music world by storm.

Carroll offers advice to those starting their own journeys in any passion: “Keep going. If this is something you’re truly passionate about, don’t stop at the first few bumps in the road.”

Update: Victim and Suspect Named in Tuskegee Homecoming Shooting

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A Sunday morning shooting at Tuskegee University resulted in the death of 18-year-old La’Tavion Johnson from Troy, Alabama, according to newly released information from the Associated Press. The shooting also injured 16 others as the university was concluding its week-long celebration of its 100th homecoming.

Latavion Johnson
Latavion Johnson was shot and killed in a mass shooting on Tuskegee University’s campus on Nov. 10, 2024.(Source: Tamika Johnson, Latavion’s mother)

Authorities reported that of the 16 injured, a dozen were struck by gunfire, while four sustained injuries unrelated to the gunshots. Many of those hurt were students, although Johnson was not affiliated with the university. Several victims received treatment at local hospitals, including East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika and Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery. The condition of the victims has not been fully disclosed, but reports indicate at least one individual remains in critical condition.

Arrest Made in Shooting Investigation

Jaquez Myrick, 25, of Montgomery, was arrested shortly after the incident as he attempted to leave the scene. He was found in possession of a handgun equipped with a machine gun conversion device, prompting federal charges of possession of a machine gun. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency confirmed that they did not accuse Myrick of being directly involved in the shooting and did not specify whether he is a student at Tuskegee. Myrick is currently being held at the Montgomery County jail.

Jaquez Myrick
This image provided by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office shows Jaquez Myrick (Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office via AP)(AP)

In response to this violence, the FBI has joined the investigation and is seeking tips from the public, including any video evidence that witnesses may have. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also assists in the ongoing inquiry. Classes were canceled on Monday, and grief counselors were available in the university chapel to support students.

The university community is reeling from the shooting. “This senseless act of violence has touched each of us, whether directly or indirectly,” said Amare’ Hardee, Tuskegee student government president.

HBCU Weekly Football Scoreboard: Week 11

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Albany State v. Fort Valley State

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

Morgan St. Bears 36, Delaware St. Hornets 28

Towson Tigers 27, Hampton Pirates 10

Villanova Wildcats 3, N.C. A&T Aggies 3

Kentucky St. Thorobreds 24, Central St. (OH) Marauders 14

Clark Atlanta Panthers 21, Morehouse Maroon Tigers 17

Lane Dragons 41, Lincoln (MO) Blue Tigers 28

Bowie St. Bulldogs 45, Lincoln (PA) Lions 7

Elizabeth City St. Vikings 27, Bluefield St. Big Blue 21

Virginia St. Trojans 35, Virginia Union Panthers 28

Winston-Salem Rams 37, Fayetteville St. Broncos 31

Tennessee St. Tigers 45, Western Ill. Leathernecks 20

Albany St. (GA) Golden Rams 20, Fort Valley St. Wildcats 15

Benedict Tigers 35, Savannah St. Tigers 27

Miles Golden Bears 37, Tuskegee Golden Tigers 7

Livingstone Blue Bears 15, Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls 10 

Jackson St. Tigers 51, Mississippi Val. Delta Devils 14

Alabama A&M Bulldogs 52, Ark.-Pine Bluff Golden Lions 24

Prairie View Panthers 31, Florida A&M Rattlers 12

Grambling Tigers 24, Alabama St. Hornets 23

Alcorn Braves 42, Texas Southern Tigers 21

South Carolina St. Bulldogs 38, Howard Bison 14

Shooting at Tuskegee University Claims One Life, Several Students Injured

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A tragic incident occurred at Tuskegee University on Sunday morning, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to several students, according to reports by WBRC. The shooting took place as the university was concluding its week-long celebration of its 100th homecoming.

Officials from Tuskegee University confirmed that the victim was a “non-university individual.”

In the aftermath of the incident, several students were transported to local hospitals, including East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika and Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery, where they are currently receiving treatment. The extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.

The Alabama Bureau of Investigations is actively working to identify a suspect while piecing together the circumstances that led to this tragic event.

Spelman College Launches Historic Jaguars Swim Club

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On Sunday, October 20, Spelman College made waves in aquatics as its Wellness Center hosted an exhibition event to celebrate the inaugural Jaguars Swim Club. This marks the first all-women’s swimming club at a historically Black college or university. Spelman’s aquatics director and head coach, Adrienne Wesley, spearheads the newly established team.

The exhibition showcased the talents of 14 club members, comprised of students and staff, who participated in various individual and relay swimming events. Competitors took to the water in individual medley, butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle races, with distances ranging from 25 to 100 yards, alongside 4 x 50 yards relay competitions.

Swimming Against The Tide

Samiyah Young, C’2025, a biology major hailing from Chicago, leads the charge as president of the club’s executive board. A former competitive swimmer, Young emphasized the significance of the club in promoting representation for Black women in a sport traditionally underrepresented by people of color. “Leading this team means not only fostering community but also creating a space where Black women can thrive in a sport that often lacks representation,” she stated. “Swimming at Spelman is a powerful way to challenge norms, break barriers, and represent in and out of the water.”

Beyond competition, the Jaguars Swim Club aims to enhance participants’ swimming skills, promote fitness, and challenge stereotypes surrounding swimming in the Black community. Coach Adrienne Wesley echoed this sentiment: “The Spelman Jaguars Swim Team is not just about competition. It represents empowerment and community for Black women. Swimming fosters confidence, resilience, and camaraderie among our students, providing them with valuable life skills both in and out of the pool.”

Looking ahead, the Jaguars Swim Club plans to compete through College Club Swimming, which is affiliated with U.S. Masters Swimming. This organization strives to boost participation in swimming at HBCUs nationwide.

HBCU Launches Historic Division I Women’s Wrestling Program 

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In a groundbreaking announcement made Thursday afternoon, Delaware State University has partnered with HBCU Wrestling to establish the first-ever Division I women’s wrestling program at a Historically Black College or University. The program will debut in the 2025-26 season, and DSU’s athletics department will promptly start the search for a head coach. 

“Delaware State University is proud to take this historic step in advancing opportunities for women in sports,” said Tony Allen, president of DSU. “We’re also thankful for our partnership with HBCU Wrestling, which will give our student-athletes the tools and environment they need to grow and succeed. This program will be a cornerstone of our commitment to fostering growth, diversity, and excellence in athletics.”

This initiative is bolstered by a generous $1.25 million donation from HBCU Wrestling. The birth of this new program is part of HBCU Wrestling’s mission to revive wrestling across HBCUs. For DSU, the move represents a renaissance of sorts. Due to financial constraints, the Hornets’ men’s wrestling program was discontinued after the 2008-2009 season.

A New Chapter For Female Athletes

“The partnership with HBCU Wrestling gives our women student-athletes a platform to compete, grow, and inspire others,” said Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson, DSU athletic director. “We are excited for this new chapter and the impact it will have for years to come.”

Jahi Jones, executive director of HBCU Wrestling, emphasized the broader significance of this initiative. “This announcement is not only about wrestling; it’s about expanding access to life-changing opportunities,” he stated. The program aims to foster an environment where young women can thrive as leaders while participating in sports they love. “This program aligns with the incredible growth of women’s wrestling nationwide, and I look forward to a strong, lasting partnership with Delaware State University that will inspire and empower future generations”

HBCU Wrestling previously revitalized Morgan State University’s men’s wrestling team with a $2.7 million gift. 

Racist Text Messages Invoking Slavery Spark Nationwide Concern

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This week, a wave of anonymous racist text messages invoking slavery sent to Black individuals, including middle school students, has raised alarms across the United States, prompting investigations by federal state agencies. Reports emerged from several states, including New York, Alabama, California, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee, with recipients receiving messages that varied in wording but shared a disturbing theme.

The messages typically instructed recipients to arrive at specific locations “with your belongings,” while others lacked a location. The FBI is coordinating with the Justice Department as well as the Federal Communications Commission, which is actively investigating alongside local law enforcement. The Ohio Attorney General’s office has also launched an inquiry into the matter.

In Lodi, California, Tasha Dunham shared her alarm after her 16-year-old daughter received a message directing her to report to a so-called “plantation” in North Carolina—a location the family has never visited. The address turned out to be a museum. “It was very disturbing,” Dunham remarked. “Everybody’s just trying to figure out what does this all mean for me? So, I definitely had a lot of fear and concern.”

Middle school students in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, were among those targeted, leading her to express deep concern over the implications of such messages aimed at children. University students from major institutions, including Clemson University and Fisk University and the University of Alabama also reported receiving similar texts. 

Civil rights leaders have condemned the messages, highlighting their harmful nature and suggesting a coordinated effort by a group aiming to instill fear among Black Americans. Nick Ludlum from the CTIA noted that wireless providers are taking steps to block these threatening communications. David Brody from the Digital Justice Initiative estimated the messages have affected individuals in over ten states.

This report utilizes information from the Associated Press.

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Wilberforce University Celebrates Accreditation Milestone, Removed from Watch List

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Wilberforce University campus

In a significant announcement for the historic institution, Wilberforce University has received formal notification from the Higher Learning Commission Board of Trustees confirming its compliance with accreditation criteria. This pivotal achievement marks a renewed commitment to academic excellence and institutional integrity at one of the nation’s oldest historically Black universities.

Effective Oct. 31, 2024, The HLC has officially removed the university from its watch list. Wilberforce’s accreditation status has been upgraded from “Accredited – On Notice” to simply “Accredited.” This decision comes after a thorough review process that included a notice visit, comprehensive reports, and institutional responses, highlighting the university’s dedication to meeting and exceeding HLC’s rigorous standards.

According to President Vann R. Newkirk, the HLC’s acknowledgment of Wilberforce’s progress is a testament to the diligent efforts of the faculty, staff, and administration. “We are immensely proud of this achievement,” said President Newkirk.”This milestone reflects our collective efforts to provide high-quality education and support to our students. We remain committed to continuous improvement and look forward to building on this success.”

Wilberforce’s Dedicated Comeback

Underlining its commitment to academic enhancement, Wilberforce University has successfully strengthened its academic programs by hiring new faculty, ensuring that each program has at least one terminally credentialed instructor. Collaborating with other Ohio colleges and universities has further enriched research opportunities and educational offerings.

In addition to academic improvements, the university has made strides in enhancing student services. A system is now in place to monitor and improve student interactions with support staff, ensuring timely and effective assistance. Furthermore, the upgraded student information system, alongside a dedicated Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Assessment, and Research, has allowed for better data collection and analysis, leading to improved student retention and completion rates.

Financially, Wilberforce has established a sustainable model that includes generating new revenue streams and refining financial systems. Recent refinancing of existing debt has also led to a more solid financial foundation, ensuring the institution’s long-term viability.

President Newkirk noted the significance of this accreditation update, particularly as it positions Wilberforce University for future growth. “Wilberforce is the fastest growing university in Ohio with a 43% enrollment increase in the past two years,” he stated. “We have increased our enrollment without increasing the scholarship budget or the institutional discount rate which stands at 17%. Having the sanction removed means improved opportunities for funding and continued enrollment growth. This is a big milestone for Wilberforce.”

ASU Alumna Azzie Melton Oliver Becomes First Black District Attorney of Montgomery County

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ASU Alumna Azzie Melton Oliver

Alabama State University  alumna Azzie Melton Oliver has made history by being appointed the first Black district attorney of Montgomery County. Her achievement marks a significant milestone in the county’s over 200-year history. Gov. Kay Ivey announced Oliver’s appointment to complete the term of former DA Daryl Bailey, who recently retired.

A native of Selma, Alabama, and a proud graduate of ASU’s Class of 1998, Oliver earned her degree in criminal justice before obtaining her juris doctorate from Faulkner University Thomas Goode Jones School of Law.

A Historic Appointment

“I am both humbled and proud to now be the district attorney of the county that represents Alabama’s state capital,” Oliver said in a phone interview. “I consider my ability to serve our community an honor. I have spent most of my career serving Montgomery County, and I am committed to leading the office in fighting for victims and making the capital city safer for all of its citizens.”

Oliver is no stranger to the DA’s office. She previously served as Montgomery County’s district attorney pro-tem and held the position of chief assistant district attorney, who was instrumental in overseeing the prosecution team. Her extensive experience also includes serving as a chief prosecutor in the Alabama Attorney General’s office.

In a statement, Oliver expressed her gratitude to Governor Ivey for entrusting her with this critical role. “I consider this appointment a blessing and an honor,” Oliver said.

In her announcement, Gov. Ivey highlighted the importance of safety in the capital city for the well-being of the entire state. “Azzie Oliver has dedicated most of her career to upholding the criminal laws of Alabama and by pursuing justice for the people of Montgomery County, so I am confident she will help us create a safer Montgomery,” Ivey remarked. 

The HBCU Impact

Reflecting on her time at ASU, Oliver credited the institution with playing a pivotal role in her professional journey. “ASU helped me to be successful in life and advanced me to be where I am today in so many ways,” she said. “The University’s Criminal Justice program that I majored in and its professional and knowledgeable faculty members pushed me in a positive way to excel academically and also prepared me to get accepted to and attend law school.”

As the new district attorney, Oliver aims to inspire the next generation of legal professionals from ASU. “My advice to the University’s students is if they wish to be successful and fulfilled in life, then they need to set career goals, focus on obtaining those goals and set a path that focuses on improving themselves,” she advised.

Oliver also acknowledges her family has profound influence on her life, crediting them for instilling values of love, leadership, and service. 

North Carolina A&T’s Torree Theodore Crowned Miss Black Georgia

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North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s 89th Miss N.C. A&T, Torree Theodore, has been crowned Miss Black Georgia, adding another prestigious title to her distinguished career in leadership, service, and pageantry.

Theodore, who is pursuing a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, previously earned her Bachelor of Social Work magna cum laude from the John R. and Kathy R. Hairston College of Health and Human Sciences at A&T. Her commitment to social responsibility and community engagement has been evident throughout her academic journey.

A Proven Leader

During her time at A&T, Theodore showcased her leadership skills by holding key positions, including Miss Sophomore and Miss Pink Tea Rose for the Alpha Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She also served as an academic senator for her college, a resident assistant, and an Aggie Success Leader.

Last year, the 38th Annual Competition of Black College Queens, hosted by the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc., reignited Theodore’s passion for pageantry. Although she did not win that competition, the experience motivated her to pursue the Miss Black Georgia crown. She aims to leverage her platform to foster community engagement through innovative service initiatives and advocacy.

“I always think about how when I serve or when I am in these positions that I am representing something bigger than myself,” Theodore reflected. “I’m not only representing Torree anymore, I’m representing my city and state.”

Plans as Miss Black Georgia

As Miss Black Georgia, Theodore plans to build her network and engage her community, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and social responsibility. Looking ahead, she is preparing to compete for the Miss Black USA title next year.

With her impressive background and dedication to serving others, Torree Theodore continues to be a role model for students and community members, embodying leadership and empowerment. 

Shelomi Sanders Makes Waves in Debut Game with Alabama A&M Bulldogs

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Shelomi Sanders, daughter of NFL legend and current Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, made her much-anticipated debut this week with the Alabama A&M Bulldogs. After a challenging year at Colorado, she’s ready to establish her own identity in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

Shelomi Sanders
Instagram/Shelomi Sanders

In her first appearance in a Bulldogs uniform, Shelomi wasted no time showcasing her talents. Despite limited playing time—just ten minutes on the court—she managed to rack up an impressive 14 points, along with one rebound, one assist, and two steals. Her shooting performance was noteworthy as well, hitting 41.6% of her field goal attempts and draining 40% of her three-pointers, signaling a bright outlook for the season ahead.

Last season at Colorado, Shelomi faced hurdles in finding her rhythm, averaging only 11 minutes on the floor and netting just one basket throughout the entire year—a three-pointer against Air Force. This struggle contributed to her decision to transfer, driven by a desire for a more supportive environment that would allow her to develop as both a player and a person. In a candid moment during an Instagram Live session, she expressed her frustrations: “I don’t want to say anything too bad. It just wasn’t good energy. It wasn’t good vibes…   If I didn’t leave when I did, I promise you I would’ve quit.” 

Shelomi previously joined her father and siblings, Shedeur and Shilo, at Jackson State during his tenure there, but she chose not to compete for the women’s basketball team that season. As a result, her debut with Alabama A&M marks the beginning of a new chapter in her athletic journey.

Alabama A&M Becoming First HBCU to Host South’s BEST Robotics Championship

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Historic strides are being made in the world of education and innovation as Alabama A&M University has been selected as the host for the South’s BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology) Championship on Dec. 13-14, 2024. This landmark event marks the first time a Historically Black College or University will serve as the venue for the competition.

The South’s BEST Robotics program aims to engage middle and high school students through hands-on projects that ignite interest in STEM fields. During the championship, students showcase their skills in designing, building, and programming robots, all while working collaboratively to solve complex problems. 

More than 850 schools across 18 states and more than 18,000 students nationally participate in the BEST Robotics initiative. AAMU anticipates welcoming over 1,200 students, educators, and families from various Southern states to its Agribition Center that weekend.

“The College of Education, Humanities, and Behavioral Sciences is always happy to support programs that provide hands-on, out-of-school experiences for pre-college students,” said Dr. Peter Eley, dean of the College of Education, Humanities, and Behavioral Sciences. “The more opportunities students get to exercise their brilliance in various forms, the more confidence and strength they gain in the process. Pre-service students gain many things from these experiences, such as teamwork, computer programming, and building resiliency as part of their overall skill set.”

Participants in the BEST Robotics competition have spent the fall months preparing within their local BEST Hubs, utilizing the Engineering Design Process to analyze challenges and devise engineering solutions. Teams that excel in their local competitions will earn the chance to compete at AAMU in December, a unique opportunity that aims to inspire a new generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators.

Texas College Unveils State-of-the-Art Esports Gaming and Academic Lab

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Esports Gaming and Academic Lab

Texas College has officially launched its Esports competitive program to enhance student engagement and expand academic opportunities and opened an innovative Esports Gaming and Academic Lab. 

Housed in the D.R. Glass Library, the Esports Gaming and Academic Lab features cutting-edge equipment designed specifically for gamers. Students can use high-powered computers, monitors, headsets, and ergonomic desks—all complemented by colorful lighting accents that create an electrifying atmosphere reminiscent of a true gamer’s paradise.

The launch of this lab marks a significant investment in esports. It provides students with a unique and aesthetically pleasing space for gaming, studying, innovating, and socializing. The initiative aims to enrich the overall student experience while helping to recruit, reclaim, and retain students through engaging and creative activities.

Beyond the gaming experience, the program includes an academic career pathway component. Collaborating with the Texas College Office of Student Affairs, Office of Academic Affairs, and a licensed digital content provider, the college offers interdisciplinary esports micro-credentialing courses. These tailored courses provide practical skills and knowledge relevant to the rapidly evolving field of esports and competitive gaming, and over 100 students have already been certified.

“I am ecstatic about our esports initiative and the investment we have made into the program,” said Texas College President Dwight J. Fennell. “It offers another extraordinary opportunity for the College to be on the cutting edge and uniquely connect with our students. The partnership will also allow students to build their future career brand in the marketplace with potential employers.”

The esports initiative emphasizes competition and teamwork and mirrors the many benefits of traditional athletics, such as sportsmanship, leadership, communication, and collaboration. 

HBCU President Reflects on 2024 Election Outcome 

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In a heartfelt letter to the Wiley University community, President Herman J. Felton, Jr. addressed the recent presidential election, where Donald Trump emerged over Vice President Kamala Harris, a graduate of and a prominent supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. During the Biden-Harris Administration, $17 billion in funding was allocated to HBCUs. The letter emphasizes the importance of democratic participation and the role of HBCUs as beacons of hope and change.

President Felton acknowledged the election’s significance while recognizing that the outcome may not resonate with everyone at the university. He stressed the importance of respecting the democratic process, regardless of individual preferences. “The majority has spoken, and this election exemplified the workings of our democratic system—an experiment in which every citizen had the opportunity to exercise their inalienable right to vote based on their beliefs and ideals,” said Felton.

Focusing On Unity

Felton called for unity and constructive dialogue within the community in his message. “True respect for democracy requires us to honor it at all times,” he wrote. “Our commitment to democracy must extend beyond the ballot box; it involves listening to one and working collaboratively towards a shared vision for our community.”

Felton also highlighted a significant achievement for HBCUs: the recognition that students from these institutions can aspire to and achieve the highest offices in the nation. He pointed out that this realization is a testament to progress and underscores the vital role HBCUs play in shaping leaders who advocate for justice and equality.

Reflecting on the rich legacy of HBCUs, Felton noted, “. They have nurtured countless individuals who have gone on to shape our society.” He encouraged current students to break barriers and amplify their voices, emphasizing that the journey toward equity and inclusion is ongoing.

In closing, Felton inspired hope and optimism, urging the Wiley community to harness their collective power to influence a better future.

HBCU Professor Provides Global Election Day Commentary

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On Tuesday, as millions of Americans cast their votes in the U.S. presidential and congressional elections, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman of South Carolina State University provided live analysis and commentary to approximately 300 million Bengali-speaking viewers worldwide. Broadcasting through TBN24TV-New York, Rahman offered insights into the electoral process, making crucial information accessible to a global audience.

South Carolina State University’s Dr. Shafiqur Rahman
South Carolina State University’s Dr. Shafiqur Rahman

As a professor of journalism and communications at SC State‘s Department of English and Communications, Rahman’s expertise spans decades of political and social coverage for major outlets, including Voice of America, National Public Radio, and the British Broadcasting Corporation. He has been a vital source of information for Bengali speakers during U.S. elections.

Originally from Bangladesh, Rahman began his career as a television producer before migrating to North America. He earned his communications and media management doctorate from Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada, in 1987. His academic journey took him from Louisiana State University to Alcorn State University, where he spent 17 years before joining SC State in 2005. He played a pivotal role in launching the university’s Communications Program there.

In addition to his teaching, Rahman was elected in 2023 as a board member of the South Carolina Fulbright Association for a new three-year term. His dedication to fostering international educational exchanges saw him work as a Fulbright Specialist Fellow, where he assisted in developing the Department of Radio, TV, and Film Studies at Dhaka University through two six-week visits in 2013 and 2014.

As Election Day unfolds, Dr. Rahman’s commentary promises to inform and engage Bengali-speaking communities worldwide, bridging the gap between U.S. electoral politics and international audiences who seek to understand its significance.