HBCU President Named Person of the Year by Times and Democrat 

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Dwaun J. Warmack

In a testament to his inspirational leadership, the Times and Democrat Newspaper has recognized Clafin University President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack as its 2024 Person of the Year. This recognition reflects his transformative impact on Claflin since his tenure began in 2019.

Under Warmack’s guidance, Claflin University has experienced significant advancements beyond academic growth. The Times and Democrat highlighted his commitment to “Elevation and Transformation,” noting accomplishments such as new campus facilities, innovative majors, and enhanced community engagement. 

“I am honored to receive this award,” Warmack stated. “You’re not in this community 155 years without giving trusted service. I truly see it as a blessing.”

Since Warmack’s arrival, Claflin has secured a place among the top private HBCUs nationally, achieving numerous accolades, including being ranked No. 1 HBCU in South Carolina and the top National Liberal Arts University in the state for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report.

A Look At Warmack’s Impact

Among the most notable developments was the opening of the New Student Center in March 2024, which Warmack affectionately refers to as the university’s “New Living Room.” This $44 million facility features Orangeburg County’s largest conference center and hosts various amenities, including a movie theater, Esports Lab, and study rooms, fostering an environment of connection and learning.

“It provides access and opportunity to residents in our community who can’t travel to Charleston or Columbia to see movies,” Warmack remarked. “We are excited about how the community is taking advantage of the New Student Center.”

In addition to enhancing campus life, Claflin introduced SmartHOME during the Fall of 2024. This project addresses healthcare disparities in minority communities by leveraging home automation technology and data collection. It serves practical and research purposes.

Warmack’s efforts also led to the successful inaugural HBCU Tech Summit, held in September 2024. This event gathered tech industry leaders and legislators to discuss growth opportunities for HBCU students. It underscored Warmack’s vision of technological investment reaching rural areas, shifting the focus away from traditional metropolitan centers.

Another significant achievement was the recent rebranding of the H. V. Manning Library, modernizing it into a hub for innovation and collaboration. The library is committed to creating a forward-thinking academic environment with features like virtual reality pods and advanced study spaces.

A Team Effort

Throughout 2024, Claflin also established meaningful partnerships with institutions like Ohio Wesleyan University and Yale.

“I’m just very fortunate to work with amazing individuals,” Warmack expressed. “If anyone deserves credit for our accomplishments, it’s the Board of Trustees.”

As he looks to the future, Warmack remains optimistic. “Eyes have not seen, and ears have not heard what God is about to do at Claflin University next year. The best is yet to come.” 

The information presented in this article was sourced from Claflin University.

Former Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. National President to Keynote HBCU MLK Program

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Voorhees University proudly announces that Dr. Cynthia Butler-McIntyre will deliver the keynote address at its upcoming Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration. The event will take place on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. in Massachusetts Hall, at 151 Academic Circle on the university’s campus.

MLK Vu Program10 1583x2048 1

An Educational Leader

Dr. Butler-McIntyre has earned widespread recognition for her exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to education and community service. As the 24th national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she has been instrumental in promoting educational opportunities and championing social justice initiatives across the nation. 

Her extensive career in education includes notable roles, such as a retired human resources director for the Jefferson Parish School System in Louisiana. There, she managed more than 3,500 employees. Additionally, she has served as a kindergarten teacher, assistant principal, summer school principal, and personnel administrator. In higher education, she held positions including executive director of the Tech-Prep Summer Program at Delgado Community College and assistant coordinator of field experiences at the University of New Orleans. 

Dr. Butler-McIntyre’s academic credentials showcase her dedication to education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Dillard University and a Master of Education from the University of New Orleans. Additionally, she was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Christian Bible College of Louisiana.

In recognition of her remarkable service, Dr. Butler-McIntyre has received numerous accolades. Notably, President Barack Obama appointed her to the Christopher Columbus Fellowship Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Additionally, she has been actively involved with organizations such as the National Alliance of Black School Educators and the NAACP, where she served as the founding president of the Algiers-Gretna branch.

Leading Delta Sigma Theta

Her presidency at Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. left a lasting impact, leading to the establishing of an elementary school named in her honor in Cherette, Haiti. She remains a steadfast advocate for education and service through her involvement with the National Council of Negro Women, The Links, Inc., and the National Association of University Women.

The event is free and open to the public.


The information presented in this article was sourced from Voorhees University.

Texas College Alumnus Jameus Hartsfield, Sr. Named Interim Head Men’s Basketball Coach

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Texas College has announced the appointment of alumnus Jameus Hartsfield, Sr. as the interim head men’s basketball coach for the upcoming season.

Hartsfield, who played for the Texas College Steers during his collegiate career and helped lead them to the Red River Athletic Conference Championship game in 2007-08, brings nearly two decades of coaching experience to the role.

After graduating from Texas College in 2008, Hartsfield began his coaching career as a volunteer assistant at Wiley College under his former coach Andre Payne, later becoming a full-time assistant in 2009. Over his six seasons in that role, he helped three players achieve NAIA All-American status and contributed to the team’s second Red River Athletic Conference Tournament Championship and third NAIA Tournament berth. Following Payne’s departure to Mississippi Valley State University, Hartsfield was promoted to head coach and later to associate athletic director. 

During his tenure as head coach at Wiley College, Hartsfield was instrumental in developing the Wildcats into a competitive force. He led the team to a commendable 60-34 record over three seasons, including a notable run where they clinched their highest national ranking in program history at No. 7.

Most recently, he served as the head men’s basketball coach and physical education teacher at Marlin Independent School District in Marlin, Texas. 

The information presented in this article is sourced from Texas College.

Virginia State University’s Azurest South Designated as National Historic Landmark

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Azurest South

Virginia State University is celebrating a momentous achievement. Its Alumni House, Azurest South, has been designated one of the nation’s newest National Historic Landmarks. U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced the designation, which recognizes 19 new NHL designations for their historical and architectural significance.

“This is a proud moment for Virginia State University and one of its most cherished landmarks,” said Franklin Johnson-Norwood, VSU’s executive director of alumni engagement and advancement services. “This designation underscores Azurest South’s enduring significance in American architectural history.”

An Amaza Lee Meredith Construction

Constructed in 1939 by VSU alumna Amaza Lee Meredith, Azurest South represents one of its era’s most innovative residential designs. Meredith made history as one of the first documented female African American architects. She went on to establish the Fine Arts Department at VSU. Meredith resided in the home with her partner, Dr. Edna Meade Colson, until she died in 1984. 

Amaza Lee Meredith P
Amaza Lee Meredith painting in her studio, the “Wreck Room,” at Azurest South. She converted it from her garage in 1959. Virginia State University, Special Collections and Archives

Today, Azurest South is a distinguished example of International Style architecture, a rarity in Virginia. In 1986, the building was transformed into the official Alumni House, fulfilling Meredith’s long-held dream of creating a gathering space for alumni on the VSU campus. 

The NHL designation marks Azurest South as a property of exceptional value that reflects the cultural history of the United States. “As America’s storyteller, it is our privilege at the Department of the Interior, through the National Park Service, to tell our nation’s history and honor the many historical chapters and heroic communities that brought us to where we all are today,” Haaland stated in a news release. 

The newly designated NHLs highlight significant contributions from various groups, including African Americans, LGBTQ+ individuals, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and women, as well as key technological, landscape, and artistic advancements in American history.

Preserving Azurest South

In a supportive move towards preserving this invaluable landmark, VSU received a $150,000 grant in 2024 to conserve Azurest South. This funding was awarded through the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund. This competitive initiative is dedicated to protecting and preserving African American historic sites and cultural treasures. With this grant, Azurest South is poised to stand as a testament to its historical importance for future generations. 

The information presented in this article is sourced from Virginia State University.

HBCU Entrepreneur Spotlight: Ajani Crenshaw, Tuogaloo College

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Ajani Crenshaw

Ajani Crenshaw, a rising sophomore at Tougaloo College in Jackson, Mississippi, is not just another student. He is a passionate advocate for community empowerment and social justice. Originally from Zion, Illinois, Crenshaw is pursuing a B.A. in political science with double minors in pre-law and public policy, equipping himself with the skills needed to drive meaningful change.

In the summer of 2023, Crenshaw gained invaluable experience as an intern with the Illinois House of Representatives. This opportunity allowed him to immerse himself in the legislative process and solidified his aspiration to pursue a career in public office. 

Following his internship, Crenshaw was selected for the prestigious Stanford Law Summer Scholars Program, a transformative experience that sharpened his legal research and advocacy skills. “My proudest moment is being accepted to my Stanford law summer institute program and being able to meet amazing people in my cohort and travel to California,” he shared. 

The journey has not been without its challenges. Attending college out-of-state has presented financial hurdles for Crenshaw. Despite these obstacles, his determination remains unshakeable. “This has been a struggle, but I continue to strive on,” he says.

Capitol Dreamers

Crenshaw’s commitment to social change goes beyond his academic pursuits. He founded Capitol Dreamers, a nonprofit organization aimed at empowering youth through comprehensive education about the criminal justice system. The organization facilitates workshops, seminars, and interactive events, fostering interactions between young people and local officials. “We aim to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to engage with the system constructively,” Crenshaw explains. “By fostering dialogue and promoting positive interactions, we strive to inspire youth to advocate for justice and drive positive change in their communities.”

As he navigates his educational journey, Crenshaw finds inspiration in the words of influential figures like Malcolm X and Thurgood Marshall. “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today,” he quotes Malcolm X, and adds, “None of us got where we are solely by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps.” 

Looking ahead, Crenshaw plans to continue expanding his nonprofit’s reach by enhancing its social media presence to share its mission more broadly.

Crenshaw’s journey exemplifies the resilience and determination of the HBCU community. His relentless drive to empower others and address systemic inequalities paves the way for a brighter future for himself and his community. 

Renovated Hall Unveils Modern Living Spaces for Tuskegee University Students

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Ribbon cutting at the reopening ceremony of Olivia Davidson Hall.

Under the bright Alabama sky, Tuskegee University celebrated the grand opening of the newly renovated Olivia Davidson Hall on Friday. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant transformation in student housing, and it featured partnerships with Turner Construction Company, which managed the $44 million renovation project.

Ribbon cutting at the reopening ceremony of Olivia Davidson Hall.
Ribbon cutting at the reopening ceremony of Olivia Davidson Hall.

Named after Olivia Davidson, the second wife of Booker T. Washington, the university’s first principal, the hall reflects her legacy as a female empowerment and education champion. The updated residential building can accommodate 146 students and offers contemporary two- and four-bedroom suite-style units.

Inside The Hall

The renovation includes modern amenities designed to enhance student safety and comfort. Olivia Davidson Hall features card-key and key fob access, surveillance cameras monitoring all entrances, classroom and study areas, and laundry facilities. “It is a privilege to join you and the Tuskegee community for the ribbon cutting of the transformed Olivia Davidson Hall,” said Peter Davoren, CEO of Turner Construction Company, during the ceremony. “This historic residence is now a modern community forward space and an exceptional environment for living and learning.”

Davoren took a moment to recognize Thaddeus Smith, a senior project manager at Turner and a Tuskegee alum known for his accomplishments in football who played a vital role in bringing the project to fruition. 

Ribbon cutting at the reopening ceremony of Olivia Davidson Hall.
Ribbon cutting at the reopening ceremony of Olivia Davidson Hall.

Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO of Tuskegee University, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “It’s important to note that what we are really talking about is teamwork.” He acknowledged the concerted efforts of local figures, including Tuskegee Mayor Tony Haygood and Trustee Natalie Knight, who contributed to this initiative and other campus improvements.

Highlighting the importance of safety, Dr. Brown reinforced Tuskegee’s commitment to creating a secure living environment for students. “As we cut the ribbon and go through here room by room, our parents will be happy and proud that their children are coming to a new, safe place to live and learn,” he said. This emphasis on security is especially relevant as all students in Olivia Davidson Hall must use their IDs and key fobs for their individual rooms to enter the building. Furthermore, similar security measures will be implemented across every other residence hall and office building on campus throughout the year.

Adrian Jones Takes The Helm at ECSU: ‘You Have my word’

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Adrian Jones

Elizabeth City State University officially welcomed Adrian Jones as its new head football coach during a press conference on Friday in the Marion D. Thorpe Administration Building. 

Interim Chancellor Catherine Edmonds expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting Jones’s reputation as an effective mentor and leader. “Coach Jones brings a wealth of experience, a strong commitment that aligns perfectly with the values and visions here at ECSU,” Edmonds said. “We look forward to his leadership to inspire our student-athletes, elevate our program and bring a renewed sense of pride and purpose to our university community.”

Speaking to an audience composed of ECSU board members, administrators, faculty, students, and community supporters, Jones outlined his vision for the football program. His focus centers on academic excellence, competitive performance, and strong community engagement.

“We want to cultivate a championship mindset. Our program will be consistent and the championship will come. We are going to be student-athletes first and foremost and we are going to represent this university with pride. Offense, we are going to be efficient, exciting, and explosive. Defense, we are going to be relentless,” Jones declared.

A North Carolina native, Jones has a rich coaching background, including several championship victories. During the press conference, Jones acknowledged the contributions of former ECSU athletic director Claude Mackey, PhD, and hall-of-fame quarterback Councilman Johnnie Walton, who were present in the audience. 

The event concluded with a Q&A session, during which Jones discussed his recruitment strategies and overarching coaching philosophy. He laid out plans to attract talent from North Carolina and Virginia.

“Elizabeth City is a goldmine, and I know we can flourish here. You have my word,” Jones reaffirmed as he prepared to embark on his new journey.

The excitement surrounding the program’s future was palpable. James M. Dubose, Jr., director of athletics, said, “You’ve heard it here first. We have not won a CIAA football championship since 1971, but it’s our time now. Coach Jones is going to take us back to that level.”

HBCU Garden Club Fights Food Insecurity Through “Foodscaping”

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Foodscaping at PVAMU

Food insecurity remains a significant challenge for many families in Houston. Reports indicate that one in five families struggles to access sufficient food. The World Health Organization reports that this issue extends to college campuses nationwide, where approximately 40% of students face difficulty obtaining healthy, nutritious meals. 

In response to this pressing concern, the College of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Student Garden Club at Prairie View A&M University has been at the forefront of efforts to combat food insecurity on and around campus. For several years, the SGC has cultivated vegetables like mustard, turnips, and collard greens, providing fresh produce to students and local residents.

This year, the club launched an innovative initiative called “Foodscaping.” This concept incorporates edible plants into ornamental landscaping, transforming planter boxes and nursery beds throughout campus into fresh, organically grown produce sources. The new additions are prominently displayed in front of the Cooperative Agricultural Research Center and the Agriculture and Business Multipurpose Building.

Foodscaping at PVAMU

In a recent demonstration of their commitment to the cause, the SGC collaborated with the PVAMU Food Security Research Center to donate over ten pounds of fresh herbs and greens harvested from their Foodscaping Project during the holiday season. The club seeks to expand its impact further by partnering with other organizations on campus to promote the adoption of planter boxes across PVAMU. This initiative aims to raise awareness among students and faculty about agriculture’s vital role in daily life.

Currently, the club cultivates various edible plants, including mustard greens, collard greens, Swiss chard, and curly-leaf kale, alongside flowering plants such as chrysanthemums and lantana. With plans for spring planting underway, the SGC aims to further enrich the campus community with new crops like turnip greens, beets, and sweet corn.

Miles College Names Chris Goode as New Head Football Coach

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Chris Goode

Miles College has officially appointed Chris Goode as its new head football coach, a pivotal move to enhance the Golden Bears’ program. Effective immediately, Goode brings a wealth of experience from his time as a standout player at the University of Alabama and a seven-year career in the National Football League. 

“We are excited for the future of Miles College football under the direction of Coach Chris Goode and are confident that Coach Goode’s leadership will bring continued success to Miles College football,” said Fred Watson, the college’s director of athletics.

Goode will be introduced formally at a press conference scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 11:30 a.m. The event will take place at the Williams Welcome and Admissions Center on campus and will be live-streamed for fans via the Miles College Facebook page.

This appointment marks Goode’s first head coaching position at the collegiate level. After concluding his playing career, he transitioned into coaching as the defensive coordinator for the Birmingham Steeldogs in the Arena Football League. Moreover, Goode remains committed to developing young athletes through his initiative, Goode Elite Prep, a post-graduate academy focused on nurturing student-athletes.

With a robust network and connections locally and nationally, Goode is poised to enhance recruiting efforts and fundraising for the football program while raising the profile of Miles College within the athletics community. “Chris Goode’s leadership and dedication to student development makes him the ideal choice to guide our football program forward,” said Miles College President Bobbie Knight. “We are excited to see how his guidance and vision will propel our student-athletes to continued success both on the field and in the classroom.”

Goode’s Playing Career

A graduate of the University of Alabama, Goode was drafted in the 10th round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Throughout his time with the Colts, he recorded impressive statistics, including seven interceptions, six fumble recoveries, and two sacks over 96 regular-season games. Following his retirement, Goode has successfully engaged in various business ventures and served as the president of the National Football League Players Association Birmingham Chapter.

Under Goode’s helm, the Golden Bears aim to maintain their status as a premier football program in Division II. Last season, Miles College achieved an impressive 10-3 record, clinching the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title and advancing to the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs, achieving national ranking for the first time in the program’s history. 

Woolworth’s Sit-In Site Honored as National Historic Landmark

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The F.W. Woolworth Co. Building, the site of a pivotal sit-in that energized the Civil Rights Movement, has officially been designated a National Historic Landmark by the National Service.

The Sit In At Woolworth’s

A&T Four
After being refused service at a Greensboro, North Carolina Woolworth’s, four African-American men launched a protest that lasted six months and helped change America. Jack Moebes / Corbis

On Feb. 1, 1960, Jibreel Khazan (formerly Ezell Blair Jr.), Joseph McNeil, Franklin McCain Sr., and David Richmond—known as the A&T Four—broke racial barriers by sitting at the Woolworth’s whites-only lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina. Their nonviolent protest quickly garnered attention and support, inspiring local college and high school students to join their cause. This act of courage not only catalyzed similar demonstrations across the country but also played a crucial role in including public accommodations as a protected category in the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

“Their sit-in inspired thousands of people to demand equal treatment in shops, restaurants, and other public places,” said the National Park Service in a statement. The sit-ins took on a new dimension as they fueled momentum for nonviolent direct-action protests, ultimately leading to the formation of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee. This organization challenged the established leadership of older civil rights groups, such as the NAACP and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, positioning younger generations at the forefront of social change.

A Long Time Coming

In the years since their brave demonstration, the former Woolworth’s has been transformed into the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, established in 2010 by Sit-In Movement Inc. The museum preserves a portion of the original lunch counter, a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggles for equality. Efforts to secure National Historic Landmark status began in earnest after the lunch counter closed in 1993 but faced delays until scholars from the Georgia State University World Heritage Initiative identified the site as a crucial part of a potential UNESCO World Heritage nomination.

N.C. A&T State University plans to honor the legacy of the A&T Four with a special event titled “Perseverance: The Power of an Ageless Evolution” on Jan. 31, 2025, marking the 65th anniversary of their historic protest. The celebration will begin with breakfast and guest speakers at the Alumni-Foundation Event Center, culminating in a wreath-laying ceremony at the February One monument. The program will also feature the prestigious N.C. A&T Human Rights Medal awarded in honor of the A&T Four, highlighting their enduring influence on the fight for civil rights.

HBCU Awarded $1.5 Million Grant to Support Rural Ministry Initiatives

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Hood Theological Seminary

Hood Theological Seminary has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. as part of its Ministry in Rural Areas and Small Towns Initiative, aimed at enhancing the vitality of ministries and strengthening leadership in rural churches across North Carolina. 

The funding will support the seminary’s Institute for Ministry in Rural Areas and Small-Towns, designed to address current and future challenges Christian congregations face in less populated regions. Rev. Damita Wilder, program director, will oversee four key initiatives through the grant: a continuing education program and workshops, academic programs tailored for rural contexts, a funding center, and an information and referral center.

Dr. Vergel Lattimore, president of Hood Theological Seminary, expressed gratitude to Lilly Endowment for ​​”entrusting Hood to be a part of a focused effort to support the many rural and small-town churches and ministries in North Carolina its commitment to rural ministries.” 

“Hood has a strong history of supporting churches and rural communities and looks forward to impacting these communities in a most positive manner,” he added.

Hood Theological Seminary joins 19 other organizations nationwide, including colleges, denominational agencies, and church networks, selected for their potential to respond effectively to the challenges faced by rural and small-town churches.

Christopher L. Coble, vice president for religion at Lilly Endowment, noted, “Our hope is that these grants will provide much needed resources and support to rural and small-town churches to help them address their challenges and enhance and extend the many ways that they serve their communities.”

Lilly Endowment Inc. is a philanthropic foundation based in Indianapolis, dedicated to community development, education, and religion, focusing on enhancing congregational vitality and leadership within diverse Christian traditions. 

HBCU to Offer Free Training on Behavioral Intervention Threat Assessment 

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Gadsden State Community College is excited to announce a complimentary training session designed for Behavioral Intervention Threat Assessment Teams, law enforcement officials, and school staff on Thursday, Jan.9, 2025, at 1 PM in the Science Building Auditorium. This four-hour course will provide participants with essential insights and strategies to improve safety in schools and communities.

“We are proud to host this important training at Gadsden State Community College. The safety of our students, staff, faculty, and communities is our top priority”, says Jay Freeman, chief of the Gadsden State Police and Safety Department. “By bringing together law enforcement, school personnel, and Behavioral Intervention Teams, we collaborate and equip boots on the ground with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent potential threats. This training is essential in ensuring that we proactively safeguard our campuses and communities.”

The training will cover a variety of critical topics, including:

  • Types of Violence
  • Importance of Reporting
  • Pathways to Violence
  • Enhancers and Mitigators
  • Triggers and Stressors
  • Information Gathering and Privacy Laws
  • Management Options
  • Building a Team of Teams

Special recognition is given to Etowah County District Judge Joe Nabors for facilitating this event, along with distinguished presenters Lt. Craig Parker from the Tuscaloosa Police Department, Special Agent Torrey Clark from the FBI – Birmingham Division, and Tesney Davis from Tuscaloosa City Schools.

This event presents a valuable opportunity for school and community leaders, law enforcement officers, and Behavioral Intervention Teams to deepen their understanding of effective threat assessment and intervention strategies.

Location:

Gadsden State Community College  

Science Building Auditorium  

400 East Cardinal Drive  

Gadsden, AL 35903

Legendary Coach Oliver “Buddy” Pough Makes Comeback as Interim Athletics Director at SC State

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South Carolina State University President Alexander Conyers announced on Thursday that Oliver “Buddy” Pough, the school’s winningest head football coach, will serve as the interim director of athletics while the university searches for a new permanent leader. 

Buddy Pough
Courtesy of MEAC

Pough succeeds Dr. Nathan Cochran, who recently left SC State to pursue other opportunities after being appointed as vice president and director of athletics in December 2023. In his announcement, Conyers thanked Cochran for his contributions during his tenure. 

“On behalf of the Bulldog family, I thank Dr. Cochran for his service and wish him the best in his future endeavors,” Conyers said.

A two-time graduate of SC State, Pough brings over twenty years of coaching experience to his new role. He led the Bulldog football program for 22 years. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs captured three outright MEAC championships, shared five additional titles, and made four appearances in the FCS playoffs.

Pough’s coaching accolades include 15 winning seasons, three MEAC Coach of the Year awards, and two National Coach of the Year honors, solidifying his status among the top coaches in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the broader HBCU community.

Pough Before SC State

Before becoming head coach at South Carolina State University in 2002, Oliver “Buddy” Pough served five seasons as an assistant coach at the University of South Carolina, where he helped the Gamecocks become a top offensive team and reach the Outback Bowl twice. Prior to his time at USC, he gained recognition as a high school coach in South Carolina, leading Fairfield-Central to a perfect 15-0 record and winning the Class AAA state title in 1996, earning three SCHSL Coach-of-the-Year honors throughout his career.

He briefly served as SC State‘s interim athletics director in late 2023 and is expected to guide Bulldog athletics through this transitional period until a permanent replacement is appointed. 

Bennie Thompson Awarded Presidential Citizens Medal for Lifetime of Service

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In a historic ceremony on Thursday, President Joe Biden awarded Congressman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., with the prestigious Presidential Citizens Medal, recognizing his exceptional contributions to American democracy over his more than 30-year tenure in Congress. The award comes just days before the end of Biden’s term on Jan. 20.

Bennie Thompson
President Joe Biden presents Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS) with the Presidential Citizens Medal during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House on January 02, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Thompson, who is also an alumnus of Jackson State University and Tougaloo College, is widely acknowledged for his leadership as the first Black chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Jan. 6 House Select Committee. His work has earned him praise not only from peers but also from colleagues who highlight his lifelong commitment to civil rights and voting access.

“Long before he was the [Jan. 6] Select Committee chairman and chairman of the Homeland Security Committee, Congressman Thompson fought for voting rights in Mississippi in the 1960s,” Hope Goins, a long-time staffer for Thompson told theGrio. She emphasized that Thompson’s early activism, which included working alongside civil rights icon Fannie Lou Hamer, shaped his deep understanding of democracy as an inclusive process.

Thompson’s Unwavering Commitment

Thompson expressed gratitude for being recognized: “I have had an unwavering commitment to upholding the Constitution and defending democracy. Throughout my nearly six decades as a public servant, whether on the local or federal level, I have worked to ensure that democratic principles work for all Americans, not just a select few.”

His colleagues have echoed this sentiment, commending Thompson’s efforts to ensure that all Americans, particularly marginalized communities, have a voice in the democratic process. 

Thompson’s legacy includes not only his influential roles on congressional committees but also his long-standing fight against racial oppression in Mississippi. His partnership with civil rights leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. exemplifies his dedication to social justice.

Thompson’s impact inspires a new generation of public servants committed to equity and inclusion across all facets of society. 

Texas HBCU Receives Generous Condominium Donation 

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Texas Southern University is thrilled to announce a remarkable gift from esteemed philanthropists Janet and Jeff Share. They have donated a condominium on Houston’s west side, just two miles from the Galleria Mall. 

“The Shares have once again demonstrated their belief in the transformative power of education,” said Charlie W. Coleman III, associate vice president of development, about the condominium donation. “Their gift strengthens TSU’s ability to provide the tools and spaces our students need to thrive. We are profoundly grateful for their unwavering support.” 

The Shares KTSU Donation

This donation follows the Shares’ establishment of a groundbreaking $54,000 endowment for KTSU, TSU‘s on-campus radio station, in March 2024.

In addition to the endowment, the Shares contributed their extensive jazz and blues collection to KTSU, reflecting their deep love for music and commitment to the station, which has been a longstanding part of their lives. 

“We had been giving to charity for a long time, like everybody. We had been spreading it out over too many places; We had planned on picking our favorite one place that we really wanted to make it count. So, we met with KTSU and the university as an extension of that and it worked out perfectly. We made our choice,” Janet said last March following the family’s donation to KTSU. 

Jeff echoed that sentiment in March: “We are extremely honored and pleased that we could help out TSU. We look to do more in the future. We can’t think of a better way to give back to our community than to do what we’re doing now.”

The shares committed a $20,000 endowment for KTSU as part of a $54,000 overall endowment for TSU to KTSU and Texas Southern University in March 2024.
The shares committed a $20,000 endowment for KTSU as part of a $54,000 overall endowment for TSU to KTSU and Texas Southern University in March 2024.

The proceeds from the condominium donation will be available for the university’s unrestricted use, further supporting TSU’s mission to foster student success and create lasting opportunities for growth. 

HBCU Receives $3M Anonymous Donation as Renovation Plans Unfold

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Livingstone College President Dr. Anthony J. Davis revealed to faculty and staff that the school is kicking off the new year with an impressive $3 million donation from an anonymous benefactor. This contribution adds to the $23 million the donor has already given the school over the past fiscal year, including a notable $10 million gift in July.

During his address, Dr. Davis emphasized the collective effort behind such philanthropy. “We don’t receive philanthropy at this level because of a president who gets up and makes an eloquent speech,” he stated. “This happens because all of you have been committed to this miracle approach. It’s because of the work that you’re doing, and it’s making us the fastest growing HBCU in North Carolina.”

The funds will be allocated to critical capital renovation projects on campus, including upgrades to the cafeteria and several residence halls. In the face of continued growth, Dr. Davis highlighted the institution’s impressive 13 percent enrollment increase, which positions it ahead of other public HBCUs in the state.

“Which means that the world is watching,” Dr. Davis said. “World wants to know. — ‘wait a minute, Livingstone? They’re getting philanthropic contributions like Morehouse and Spelman. We are. It’s because of the work that you’re doing.”

However, he also acknowledged the importance of sustainable growth, stating, “When we talk about slow control growth, it’s about capacity. We could not function above 1200 students right now, physically on campus. So right now we’re at 941. We’re almost close to capacity.”

As Livingstone College moves into 2025, the combination of generous donations and careful planning promises a bright future for the institution. 

This report is based on information provided by HBCU Gameday.