In a commanding performance, the Gold Nuggets of Xavier University of Louisiana opened their game against Texas A&M-San Antonio with a strategy that paid off. The team went on to secure an 80-65 victory on Thursday evening. This triumph marked their 15th consecutive win, reinforcing their position at the top of the Red River Athletic Conference with an unblemished 12-0 record and placing them prominently at 25th in the NAIA rankings.
From the opening tip-off, the Gold Nuggets displayed remarkable synergy on the court, leading 38-28 at halftime and maintaining a double-digit lead throughout the second half. Kam Shelley led the charge with 16 points, while Joy Campbell followed closely with 15 points. Zaria Harleaux and Lauren Banks each added 14 points.
Photo Credit: Yamlak Tsega/XULA Athletics
XULA’s bench also provided valuable support. Jala Williams dished out a game-high six assists and Sierra Headquist chipped in with nine points and eight rebounds.
The defeat for Texas A&M-San Antonio, a first-year varsity program, sits the team at a 12-5 overall record.
Looking ahead, XULA will remain in San Antonio, preparing for their next showdown against Our Lady of the Lake University on Saturday at 1 p.m. CST. The Nuggets aim to extend their historic streak. Remarkably, they are the only XULA basketball team, male or female, since 1941 to start a season with 15 consecutive victories.
This article sources information from Xavier University of Louisiana.
Lincoln University of Missouri is making significant strides toward enhancing its educational offerings by introducing the Lincoln University Employment Academy. The initiative is a component of the university’s “25 in ‘25” points of pride campaign which aims to build momentum from last year and drive future growth and success.
Set to launch in spring 2025, LUEA responds to Missouri’s escalating demand for skilled workers in both public and private sectors. With a strong focus on supporting minority and underrepresented populations, the academy aims to prepare qualified individuals to fill critical vacancies throughout the state.
“By prioritizing accessible education and skills training, LUEA will ensure that individuals, particularly those in underrepresented populations, have the tools to succeed in our state’s most high-demand jobs,” said Dr. Darius Watson, assistant provost for academic innovation, outreach, and research at Lincoln University.
Layout of the Academy
The program will be a two-semester, credit-bearing certification course funded through startup support from the Missouri Department of Social Services, Office of Workforce and Community Initiatives. LUEA will offer participants a blend of education, hands-on training, and career development resources essential for successful workforce integration.
During the first semester, students will undertake online courses tailored to establish foundational knowledge relevant to their desired careers. The second semester will provide opportunities for paid, in-person internships in Jefferson City and St. Louis, or students can choose to continue online education. Importantly, Lincoln will recognize enrollees as full-time students qualifying them for federal financial aid. They will also be earning credits applicable toward an undergraduate degree.
LUEA is showing its commitment to addressing the state’s workforce needs by partnering with several key state agencies, including the Departments of Economic Development, Mental Health, Natural Resources, and Higher Education and Workforce Development.
Applications are currently open for a limited number of seats in this spring 2025 pilot program.
This article sources information from Lincoln University.
Coahoma Community College proudly announced that its Marching Maroon Typhoon has received a noteworthy donation from the Southern Poverty Law Center as part of the “Mississippi Got Now” initiative. SPLC recognized the band for boasting the largest school organization turnout at a recent SPLC-hosted voting event to promote voter awareness and participation among young individuals.
Beyond The Music
The SPLC event attracted numerous schools and organizations across Mississippi, showcasing an impressive commitment from youth to engage in the democratic process. The Marching Maroon Typhoon‘s outstanding representation underscored the band’s influence beyond musical performances, demonstrating their dedication to civic responsibility.
Eddie Buggs, the director of bands at CCC, expressed his pride in the students’ enthusiastic involvement. “I am incredibly proud of our students for stepping up and showing out not just as musicians but as engaged citizens,” Buggs remarked. “Their dedication to excellence on and off the field is a true reflection of what we stand for at Coahoma Community College. This donation will help us continue to foster that spirit of commitment and leadership.”
Pushing The Band Forward
The financial contribution will be used to further the band’s objectives in student development and community involvement. This will ensure that the momentum of civic engagement continues to thrive within the group.
Dr. Kelvin Towers, chair of fine arts and director of choir activities, also praised the band for exemplifying leadership. “The Marching Maroon Typhoon is a powerful example of how the arts can drive community impact,” Towers stated. “Their presence at the event not only showcased their talent but also their commitment to being active participants in shaping the future.”
The Southern Poverty Law Center’s “Mississippi Got Now” initiative aims to empower young people through voter education and increase turnout in elections across the state. By partnering with educational institutions such as CCC, the SPLC underscores schools’ vital role in fostering informed and engaged citizens.
This article sources information from Coahoma Community College.
South Carolina State University announced the opening of its first two lactation spaces on Wednesday. These spaces will accommodate nursing employees and students in a supportive environment. This initiative aligns with the university’s commitment to promoting well-being and inclusivity within its community.
Tyrrea Glover, SC State’s interim Title IX coordinator and equal opportunity investigator, emphasized the importance of these new facilities. “The creation of this lactation space marks an important step in our ongoing efforts to foster inclusive, accommodating environments for all members of our campus community,” Glover stated. “This initiative aligns with the university’s commitment to supporting the well-being of nursing individuals as they balance the demands of their work and academic lives.”
The first lactation area is in room 9 of the Brooks Health Center. It provides nursing women with privacy, comfort, and the essential facilities needed to express milk in a clean and safe environment. Glover added, “Providing a dedicated lactation room is an important step toward meeting the needs of our nursing employees and students, ensuring that they have access to essential resources to maintain their health and care for their families.”
A Multifunctional Space
The Zen Den in the Donma Administration Building. (Courtesy of SC State)
In addition to the Brooks Health Center room, SC State will use the Zen Den in room 107 of the Ko W.G. Donma Administration Building as a lactation space. The Donma Zen Den is part of a mental health initiative funded through Home Depot’s Retool Your School program. It provides serene spaces designed for relaxation and stress relief. This multifunctional approach allows the Zen Den to serve both mental well-being and lactation needs.
Establishing these lactation spaces is consistent with Title IX and recent federal legislation, such as the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the PUMP Act, which advocate for workplace accommodations for lactating individuals. These laws help ensure that lactating employees and students can continue their work and studies without compromising their or their children’s health.
Looking forward, South Carolina State University aims to expand the availability of lactation rooms across the campus.
Wilberforce University has proudly announced that it has been awarded $539,108.92 from the Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program. The award marks a significant milestone for the institution. This state-funded initiative aims to foster scholarship and educational resources for students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics degrees. The funding will cover tuition, meal plans, and books.
A team led by Dr. Gerard McShepard, Ph.D., associate provost for academic affairs, submitted the successful grant application on Aug. 28, 2024. The state of Ohio and the Ohio Department of Higher Education officially notified Wilberforce University of the award for the FY2026 to FY2030 funding period. The controlling board announced it on Dec. 2, 2024.
“This is a historic achievement for Wilberforce University, marking the first time we have applied for the Choose Ohio First grant – and we succeeded on our first submission,” said Wilberforce University President Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, Sr. “This funding will allow us to expand opportunities for our students in STEM fields, supporting their academic journeys and contributing to Ohio’s workforce development.”
Boosting STEM Education
This recent award strengthens Wilberforce’s commitment to academic excellence, positioning it as a leading liberal arts institution and an emerging hub for STEM education.
“This grant will not only enhance our ability to support current students but also boost enrollment by attracting new students who are eager to pursue STEM degrees,” added Dr. McShepard, who serves as the program manager for the Choose Ohio First initiative at Wilberforce. “It’s a pivotal step toward furthering student success and ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to thrive in competitive, high-demand fields. This investment aligns with our vision to elevate Wilberforce’s profile as a university that excels in both the liberal arts and STEM disciplines.”
The Choose Ohio First program plays a vital role in Ohio’s strategy to cultivate and retain STEM talent. Its goal is to ensure that the state remains at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement. With this new funding, Wilberforce University is poised to advance its STEM offerings substantially, benefiting its student body and the broader community.
This article sources information from Wilberforce University.
Grambling State University alumnus Jerald Johnson has taken an inspiring journey from a humble upbringing to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Now, he is giving back to his alma mater by establishing the J.J. Johnson Family Endowed Scholarship. This $25,000 endowment aims to support students in the College of Business, ensuring they have the resources necessary to thrive academically.
A Houston native, Johnson faced numerous challenges on his path to success, including financial struggles and transportation issues during high school. “It was kind of a tough life,” Johnson reminisced, recalling his reliance on public transportation, which often extended his commute to school by more than an hour. However, as he navigated these obstacles, he remained determined to forge a different future.
Initially interested in computer science, Johnson found his way to GSU due to the encouragement of family and friends. He enrolled in 1991 and graduated in 1995, but the road ahead was difficult. “I had poor interviewing skills,” he admitted. Despite several setbacks in securing internships, Johnson’s self-evaluation and newfound confidence led him to a position as a programmer/analyst at Texas Instruments, marking the beginning of his career in IT consulting.
Over the years, Johnson honed his skills through various roles, including stints at Price Waterhouse and working with major corporations such as Compaq and Eli Lilly. During his time at Eli Lilly, he encountered a key mentor, Peter Li, who encouraged him to consider entrepreneurship. However, Johnson decided to gather more experience before launching his own business.
In 2005, Johnson transitioned to independent consulting, only to face a significant setback when Hurricane Ike devastated his business in 2008. Undeterred by this near-failure, he relocated to Dallas and rebuilt his consulting career, leading to the establishment of Simplistek—a company focusing on simplifying complex business processes through technology.
Giving Back
With Simplistek flourishing, Johnson became involved with the GSU College of Business Advisory Board. Inspired by principles learned from Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University, he and his wife prioritized philanthropy. When GSU’s vice president for university advancement and innovation, Brandon A. Logan, presented the idea of creating an endowment, Johnson saw it as a perfect opportunity to give back.
“My family wanted to ensure that others have the same opportunities I did,” he shared. “This endowment is about giving back to Grambling, which gave me so much. That’s what this is all about.”
Following his legacy, Johnson’s son is a student at GSU and will graduate from the College of Business in the spring.
This article sources information from Grambling State University.
In the aftermath of the devastating New Year’s Day terrorist attack, Dillard University is stepping up to provide comfort and healing through the power of music. On Saturday, Jan. 11, from 12 PM to 4 PM, the university will host a free community concert at Georges Auditorium, located at 2601 Gentilly Blvd. Dillard organized the event in collaboration with the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic and Assistance Foundation. It aims to support those affected by the tragedy while celebrating the city’s rich musical heritage.
Dr. Monique Guillory, president of Dillard University, expressed the institution’s commitment to helping the community heal. “In the wake of this horrific tragedy, Dillard University is honored to host the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic and Assistance Foundation for this worthy cause,” she stated. “We have no doubt about the resilience of this city and our NOLA-strong communities, but it is important that we take a moment – this moment, and many more – to collectively support those who have been impacted by one more senseless act of violence.”
Supporting Attack Victims
While entry to the concert is free, attendees are encouraged to donate to the attack’s victims and their families. Dr. Peggy Honoré, board president of the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic & Assistance Foundation, highlighted the emotional toll experienced by the community. “The terrorist event on New Year’s Day on Bourbon Street likely caused significant emotional and mental strain for victims, their families, and our entire community,” she noted. “This concert serves as a way to not only bring people together but to provide access to professional mental health resources. It also demonstrates how music continues to sustain our culture through difficult times.”
Those attending the concert can look forward to performances by a lineup of local talent, including Margie Perez, Sharon Martin and First Take Band, Naydja Cojoe, Rechell Cook, Terrence and The Fortress Band, Kenneth Hagans Brass Band, Philip Joseph, the Le Bon Ton Baby Dolls, and others.
In addition to the musical performances, the event will feature resources and information for mental health support. Professionals will be available on-site to assist those in need. The partnership between Dillard University and the New Orleans Musicians’ Clinic seeks to address the emotional and psychological needs of the affected community while reinforcing the message that they are not alone in this battle.
This concert is a testament to New Orleans’s spirit— a city deeply rooted in music, art, and unwavering strength.
A diving accident in 2016 left Mark Raymond Jr., an Xavier University alumnus, with limited mobility, requiring him to navigate his beloved New Orleans in a wheelchair. Struggling against inadequate accessibility standards, Raymond felt a wave of hopelessness. However, after confronting his emotions and reevaluating his purpose, he focused on advocacy.
In 2018, two years post-accident, Raymond founded the Split Second Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to the holistic wellness of individuals with disabilities. He also runs Universal Development Consulting, aimed at implementing accessibility standards into urban and commercial projects.
Raymond emphasized the need for inclusion, stating, “For so long, accessibility was kind of like an afterthought.” He advocates for the addition of “A” to the DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) framework, recognizing disability as the largest minority population globally. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 42.5 million Americans live with some form of disability, and over 1.3 billion worldwide experience significant challenges.
Preparing For An Accessible Super Bowl
With the upcoming Super Bowl and Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, Raymond is working diligently to ensure the city’s infrastructure improvements prioritize accessibility. Partnering with New Orleans & Company, he is producing educational videos for travelers with disabilities, highlighting tips for navigating the city and accessing attractions.
Reflecting on his journey, Raymond connects access to a broader, universal challenge. “At 27 years old, it didn’t affect me until I had an accident. Now, suddenly, I need all of this,” he explained, emphasizing that creating accessible environments benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities.
A Legacy of Activism
Raymond’s activism draws inspiration from his grandfather, A.P. Tureau. Tureau was a prominent civil rights attorney in Louisiana. “When I think about disability rights, it is civil rights,” he noted. “His work formed my understanding of how to get things done.”
Through initiatives like the “Roll with Me” campaign, which allows civic leaders to experience the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities firsthand, Raymond aims to create a visceral awareness of the importance of accessibility. His efforts have successfully translated into funding for city services, including $5.5 million allocated for making public transport more accessible.
As both a personal crusade and a social necessity, Raymond is passionate about expanding the conversation around accessibility. “This work has given me purpose, belonging,” he shared. “It’s helped me in so many ways. It gave me my life back.”
Through his unwavering determination and vision, Mark Raymond Jr. is not just advocating for change; he is reshaping the narrative around accessibility and challenging us all to envision a world where everyone can thrive.
This article sources information from Xavier University of Louisiana.
Jayden Williams, a 21-year-old Georgia native and current commissioner of Stockbridge, is making headlines as the youngest candidate to run for mayor of his hometown. As he prepares to graduate from Clark Atlanta University, Williams is fueled by a desire to create opportunity and growth in a community he knows intimately.
“Stockbridge raised me, but Clark Atlanta educated me,” he says about the institution where he has held multiple leadership roles. “The rich history and legacy of CAU have profoundly shaped my journey, and I carry that legacy with pride as I work to serve our community.”
The young leader has roots deeply embedded in public service. His grandmother, Henry County Commissioner Vivian Thomas, has inspired him through her dedicated work in local government. Williams is focused on addressing key issues that affect Stockbridge residents. “Raised by a military mom and an entrepreneurial father, I learned the importance of perseverance, service, and living by the belief that service is the rent we pay to exist on this earth,” he says.
Williams’ Plans For Stockbridge
Having witnessed Stockbridge’s potential and challenges, Williams promises to commit to prioritizing economic development, affordable housing, public safety, and youth programs. His overarching goal is to preserve the close-knit spirit of the city while promoting sustainable growth. “Although I will graduate from Clark Atlanta University before the election in November, it was important for me to announce my candidacy as an undergraduate,” Williams explained. “Public service is just as essential as education—fulfilling our civic duties holds the same weight as attending class.”
Housing and the Environment
Among the pressing matters Williams seeks to address is the need for affordable housing in Stockbridge. He recognizes that many residents struggle with rising living costs and limited accessible housing options. Additionally, Williams is passionate about environmental sustainability and aims to promote energy-efficient housing practices that align with high building standards, thereby reducing costs and minimizing the city’s carbon footprint.
“If we fail to address these issues, we risk losing the sense of community that makes Stockbridge unique and jeopardizing our environmental future.” – Williams
Community Engagement
Engagement with the community is also a cornerstone of Williams’ campaign strategies. If elected, he plans to implement initiatives like a Mayor’s Town Hall forum, where citizens can directly voice their concerns and actively participate in decision-making processes. “Community involvement is at the heart of my decision-making process because the best solutions come from those directly affected by the issues we face,” he stated.
As he moves forward in his campaign, Williams hopes to leave a lasting impact beyond his tenure. “My goal is to ensure Stockbridge continues to grow and succeed long after my tenure—10, 15, or even 100 years from now,” he affirms.
With his impressive vision for a thriving, multigenerational community, Williams is eager to inspire the people of Stockbridge and the next generation of leaders. “Together, we can create a brighter and more inclusive future for our city,” he concluded.
As the election approaches, all eyes will be on Williams as he harnesses the spirit of his community and advocates for change.
Shelton State Community College Athletics is preparing for a heartfelt ceremony on Friday, Jan. 10, at 10:30 a.m. in the Martin Campus Gymnasium. During this event, Krystalyn Boman, a 12-year-old with ganglioglioma, a type of brain cancer, will sign a letter of intent, becoming an honorary Buccaneer in partnership with the nationwide Friends of Jaclyn Foundation.
Courtesy of Standing With Krstalyn Facebook page.
Krystalyn’s journey began in 2019 when a concussion sustained on the school playground led to a shocking discovery: a golf ball-sized tumor on the right side of her brain. Despite living with multiple tumors, Krystalyn maintains a strong and positive outlook, aspiring to be a cosmetologist. Her family says she approaches her treatments and medical challenges with a resilient mindset.
Through the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation, Krystalyn, and her family will join various SSCC athletic teams throughout the year. They will participate in games and events and create cherished memories together. “All Shelton State athletic teams will be involved in Kristalyn’s journey,” said Cara Crosslin, athletics director at SSCC. “Each of us look forward to seeing her sign a letter of intent and involving her and her family in our team programs.”
Friends of Jacyln Foundation
The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation was established in 2005 following the diagnosis of 9-year-old Jaclyn Murphy with medulloblastoma, a malignant brain tumor. Inspired by her experiences, the foundation aims to enhance the quality of life for children facing similar challenges by pairing them with high school and college athletic teams. This unique collaboration offers young patients love, support, and friendship while providing a sense of community amid their battles with devastating diseases.
Those interested in following Krystalyn’s journey can follow the ‘Standing With Krstalyn’ support Facebook page for updates on her progress.
The upcoming signing ceremony is open to the public.
This article sources information from Shelton State Community College.
The University of the Virgin Islands has announced a significant contribution of $75,000 from The Patterson Family Foundation. This gift will fund ten scholarships for first-year undergraduate and graduate students with aspirations in writing or teaching writing for the 2024-2025 academic year. Each scholarship, valued at $7,500, is designed to assist full-time students as they embark on their educational journeys.
Investing In The Next Generation of Writers
This generous gift underscores the foundation’s ongoing commitment to enhancing literacy and education, particularly in storytelling and writing. James Patterson, an internationally renowned author and philanthropist, has long prioritized educational initiatives through his foundation. He has funded scholarships at other esteemed institutions like Vanderbilt University and the University of Wisconsin.
“The University of the Virgin Islands is profoundly grateful to The Patterson Family Foundation for this generous investment in our students and their futures,” UVI President Dr. Safiya George stated. “This gift is a testament to the Foundation’s commitment to literacy, education, and the power of storytelling, which align seamlessly with UVI’s mission to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.”
The university community eagerly anticipates these scholarships’ impact on students’ lives, enabling them to create a lasting legacy in writing and education.
Michael Morsberger, UVI’s vice president for institutional advancement, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative potential of such contributions. “Scholarships like these don’t just change lives; they change communities,” he said. “The Patterson Family Foundation’s support will open doors for students to achieve their dreams.”
Continued Support from Patterson
James Patterson’s extensive philanthropic efforts reflect his passion for helping students, educators, and literary communities. The Patterson Family Foundation has provided millions in grants to promote reading, support libraries and librarians, and enhance educational initiatives worldwide.
As UVI prepares to welcome a new cohort of talented writers and educators, this partnership with The Patterson Family Foundation marks a promising step toward fostering the next generation of literary voices and leaders.
This article sources information from the University of the Virgin Islands.
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association family is grieving the loss of one of its most vibrant and dedicated supporters, Abraham “Ham” Mitchell, who passed away at 95 in his hometown of Suffolk, Virginia. Known affectionately as “Mr. CIAA,” Mitchell was a beloved fixture at the annual CIAA Basketball Tournament, known for his energetic attendance and especially his one-of-a-kind fashion.
For nearly half a century, Mitchell made his mark on the tournament with his meticulously crafted suits that reflected the colors of the participating teams. Changing at halftime to sport the other team’s colors, his commitment to showcasing his outfits was legendary. “I don’t take sides,” Mitchell told the Suffolk News-Herald in 2015. “It doesn’t make any difference who wins the game. I’m for both teams. I just do it for the enjoyment and excitement.”
An Unforgettable Impact
Mitchell’s striking wardrobe and larger-than-life persona earned him fans, players, and officials admiration. He would often parade through the arena, stopping to pose for photos and sign autographs. In 2016, Mitchell was inducted into the CIAA Hall of Fame, a recognition typically reserved for athletes.
Following his passing, the CIAA expressed its sorrow in a heartfelt tribute, stating, “Mr. Mitchell will forever hold a cherished place in the CIAA family,” acknowledging his remarkable influence over the span of more than four decades.
Mitchell’s legacy extends beyond his fashion statements; he embodied the spirit of HBCU culture and community. His absence from tournaments in subsequent years had been felt deeply. His family emphasized that Mitchell’s contribution to the tournament atmosphere and the memories he created would never be forgotten.
As the HBCU basketball community comes together to honor Abraham “Ham” Mitchell, they remember not just a dedicated fan and talented designer but a figure who brought light and joy to the world of HBCU sports. His legacy as Mr. CIAA will continue to inspire future basketball enthusiasts.
In a momentous tribute to an influential historical figure, Saint Augustine’s University officially renamed the post office at 2777 Brentwood Road to the “Millie Dunn Veasey Post Office.” This honor recognizes the extraordinary contributions of the late alumna, class of 1953, who served as a trailblazer for African American women during World War II and left an indelible mark on her community.
Millie Dunn Veasey was a member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion member, the only all-black, all-female unit to serve overseas during the war. This battalion was critical in ensuring that soldiers received vital communication from home, embodying the belief that “no mail, low morale.” Their commitment to maintaining connection during wartime highlights the essential nature of support and correspondence for soldiers far from home.
The renaming ceremony recalls Veasey’s significant military service and involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. Her spirit of resilience and dedication inspires students and faculty at Saint Augustine’s University, particularly as the institution struggles with accreditation and financial stability.
“As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we reflect not only on Millie’s incredible military service and her role in the Civil Rights Movement but also on the spirit of resilience that she embodied—a spirit that remains essential today as Saint Augustine’s University,” the university said in a blog post.
The recognition of Millie Dunn Veasey’s accomplishments has garnered support from notable leaders, including Congresswoman Deborah Ross and President Biden. SAU says their advocacy underscores the importance of honoring historical figures who paved the way for future generations. As Saint Augustine’s University navigates difficulties, it draws strength from its rich legacy, epitomized by graduates like Millie Dunn Veasey.
This article sources information from Saint Augustine’s University.
The U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are putting more pressure on Tennessee Governor Bill Lee to address a staggering $2.1 billion in state underfunding of Tennessee State University over the past thirty years.
In a letter from September 2023, the federal departments highlighted the significant funding gap. It also emphasized its detrimental impact on TSU, especially during challenging economic times. A more recent correspondence, obtained by The Tennessean, reiterates this call for action. This comes as the university undergoes a leadership transition after a year marked by turmoil and financial distress.
TSU appointed Dwayne Tucker, an experienced business and education leader and former TSU board member, as interim president in December. Tucker is committed to stabilizing the university’s finances while addressing the historical funding disparities. “What I want to do is provide some stability to the university in terms of resources,” he told the State Building Commission in December. “That’s the only way we’re going to move forward.”
The federal letter noted that the unbalanced funding “puts the institution in jeopardy during times of economic uncertainty.” Additionally, it pointed out the disparity between state support for TSU and its counterpart, the University of Tennessee, the other land-grant institution in the state.
“As you explore ways to address the funding imbalance, we strongly recommend establishing a state-level bipartisan joint legislative committee to gather data and conduct historical budget analysis of how the state has allocated funds,” part of the letter read.
Supporting Land-grant Schools
Tennessee State University was established under the second Morrill Act of 1890. The act mandated ending racial discrimination at existing land-grant schools or creating separate institutions for Black students. Being recognized as a land-grant HBCU, makes TSU eligible for specific grants to enhance agricultural and mechanical arts education.
The federal grants require Tennessee to provide a one-to-one funding match for UT and TSU. Since the underfunding issue was first revealed, federal officials have worked to address these disparities. They have hosted a webinar to clarify how the underfunding calculations were made and launched a federal dashboard to improve data accessibility for states and researchers.
In the latest letter from U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack, the emphasis was placed on the importance of building a strong workforce through robust higher education institutions. The letter expressed a desire to collaborate with Governor Lee in confronting the long-standing funding inequalities, stating, “Strong institutions of higher education support this goal through supporting research that fosters innovation that can lead to new discoveries and technologies that save lives, develop business, and sustain regions.”
The Tennessee state legislature will reconvene for its regular session on Jan. 14. It will be an opportunity for state leaders to address these critical funding issues.
This article is based on reporting by Rachel Wegner with the Nashville Tennessean.
In a swift transition, Shaw University proudly announces the appointment of Lamar Manigo as the new head football coach of the Shaw Bears. This news comes just days after coach Greg Ruffin stepped down for health reasons.
Manigo Returns to Shaw
Manigo returns to Shaw after an impressive stint as the offensive coordinator from 2016 to 2021. He led the Bears to some of their best offensive statistical seasons in program history during this time. Shaw University says his innovative offensive strategies and strong leadership skills have established him as one of the leading minds in college football coaching today.
Most recently, Manigo served as assistant head coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterbacks coach at Virginia State University. He played a crucial role in the Trojans’ resurgence and helped them secure a spot in the 2024 CIAA championship game. His commitment to developing student-athletes aligns seamlessly with Shaw University’s values.
“We are happy to welcome Coach Lamar Manigo back to Shaw University,” said George Knox, athletics director. “His passion for the game, dedication to mentoring student-athletes, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our vision for the football program. We are confident that he will lead the Bears to new heights.”
Manigo expressed his enthusiasm for returning to his alma mater. “I am honored and excited to return to Shaw University as head football coach,” he said. “This is a homecoming for me, and I look forward to working with our talented student-athletes to build a program that makes our university and alumni proud.”
A Swift Transition
This change in leadership follows Coach Greg Ruffin’s unexpected resignation due to health issues that require his immediate attention. Ruffin, who had been reappointed as head coach just two weeks prior, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity but ultimately prioritized his health.
Athletic Director George Knox fully supported Ruffin’s decision: “We fully support Coach Ruffin in prioritizing his health and well-being during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with him, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery.” Ruffin had previously led the Bears in 2002, achieving a remarkable 7-3 record, and his return had raised hopes for revitalizing the program.
To formally introduce Manigo and outline his vision for the program’s future, Shaw University will host a press conference on Jan. 21, 2025, inside Estey Hall.
This article sources information from Shaw University.
Savannah State University’s men’s basketball program is set to embark on a new chapter as head coach Horace Broadnax announced his retirement on Jan. 6. Assistant coach Clevan Thompson will immediately step into the role of interim head coach.
“We thank Coach Broadnax for his leadership of the men’s basketball program here at Savannah State,” remarked Opio Mashariki, Director of Athletics. “I have immense respect and gratitude for everything Coach Broadnax has done. We congratulate him on his retirement and wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.”
Broadnax, who was named the program’s 11th head coach on April 11, 2005, leaves behind a remarkable legacy after a 20-year tenure at Savannah State. Under his leadership, the Tigers achieved significant accomplishments, including three championship titles.
Notably, the 2011-12 season marked a historic milestone as the Tigers claimed their first-ever Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Regular Season Championship with a standout 14-2 conference record, which earned them a spot in the National Invitation Tournament. Broadnax’s coaching prowess led the team to replicate this success in 2018 by securing another MEAC Regular Season Championship. The Tigers also appeared in the College Insider.com Tournament in 2013 and 2016. In recent years, Broadnax guided Savannah State to the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament Title in 2022, granting them an automatic bid to the NCAA Division II Tournament.
Reflecting on his time at Savannah State, Broadnax shared, “I’m happy about my decision to retire here at Savannah State. The experience here has been very rewarding and I am extremely excited for my future as well as the future of the program.”
Courtesy of Savannah State University Athletics
Thompson Takes Over
Stepping into the interim head coach position, Clevan Thompson is no stranger to Savannah State. A proud alumnus, he graduated in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems. With nearly two decades of coaching experience, Thompson comes from Bethesda Academy, where he led the boys’ basketball team to 12 Final Four appearances, eight trips to the state championship game, and two state titles. He won the 2012 Georgia Independent School Association State Championship and the 2015 South Carolina Independent School Association Class AAA state title.
Clevan Thompson
“I’m excited to take the leadership role of this program,” Thompson said in response to his new position. “Coach Broadnax has left a positive mark on this program, and I am up for the challenge in leading the the team and building on his legacy.”
As the Tigers prepare for their upcoming season, both Broadnax’s contributions and Thompson’s fresh vision will undoubtedly shape the direction of Savannah State men’s basketball.
The information presented in this article was sourced fromSavannah State University.
