HBCU Student Lil JSean Shines on Netflix’s Music Competition

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Lil JSean pictured

In hip-hop culture, where talent often goes hand in hand with perseverance, Lil JSean, a Texas Southern University student, is stepping into the limelight as a contestant on Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow. This groundbreaking music competition, hosted by artists Cardi B, Chance the Rapper, and TI, showcases undiscovered hip-hop talent.

On the show, contestants journey through auditions, challenges, and performances, culminating in selecting one winner, who receives a $250,000 cash prize and the opportunity to launch their music career.

The Journey to Netflix

Lil JSean’s path to “Rhythm + Flow” came by chance. A casting call posted by a Houston radio host caught his eye, prompting him to apply without knowing the show’s name or format. After a rigorous five-month casting process filled with auditions and background checks, Lil JSean received the life-changing news that he would be part of the competition. “Me, my mom and sisters were excited,” he recalled.

He found his musical voice in his teenage years, freestyling over beats using GarageBand on a family computer.  The tragic loss of his older brother, Dougie, turned his hobby into something more serious. “He would tell me keep going, bro. Your music is hard, so when he passed away in a motorcycle accident, his words stuck with me, and I never gave up,” he shared. Influenced by legendary figures from the 90s rap era, such as Tupac, Biggie, and Nas, Lil JSean’s sound is both nostalgic and refreshing.

The Message Behind the Music

As an HBCU student, Lil JSean aims to embody the essence of his culture through his music. “I wanted to be transparent about who I actually am—a young Black male that loves to learn, that loves to read, loves to take care of my body and pays attention to what I’m eating,” he said. His holistic approach is evident not only in his lyrics but also in his vegan diet lifestyle.

Competing on “Rhythm + Flow” hasn’t been without its challenges. Maintaining focus and memorizing lyrics are crucial, but Lil JSean views these hurdles as opportunities for growth. “Participating in the show gave me a lot of confidence because I was recognized out of tens of thousands of applicants,” he noted. “It goes to show if you are committed to self-growth, you will get recognized eventually.”

Through his performances, Lil JSean hopes to convey a powerful message: “It’s cool to be yourself and that you don’t have to ever fit in.” His authenticity will resonate with viewers and within the broader HBCU community, where discussions around social issues are increasingly vital. “Music has a huge impact on shaping conversations around social issues because, to a certain degree, the public looks to entertainers as somewhat of a voice for them,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Lil JSean has ambitions beyond music, and winning the cash prize could help expedite his goals. He plans to open a vegan restaurant and establish mental health facilities to support the African American community. As he continues his journey on “Rhythm + Flow,” this TSU student aims for musical success and strives to uplift and educate others in the industry. 

Keep an eye on Lil JSean—this is just the beginning of his incredible story. 

HBCU Launches Nuclear Engineering Program with $5M Grant

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Morgan State Nuclear Engineering Program

The National Nuclear Security Administration has awarded Morgan State University a $5 million grant to establish a nuclear engineering program to increase minority representation in the nuclear security workforce. This initiative, known as the Scholarly Partnership in Nuclear Engineering, aims to prepare a diverse group of underrepresented students for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of nuclear engineering over the next five years.

The Spine Project 

The SPINE project will create innovative curricula, enhance research opportunities, and promote mentorship programs that equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills. By fostering partnerships between universities and industry leaders, the initiative seeks to significantly increase the number of graduates and postdoctoral students entering the nuclear engineering sector.

“I am proud that Morgan has been selected as a partner institution to launch this program, which aims to develop the next generation of scientists,” said Oscar Barton, Jr., Ph.D., dean of the Clarence M. Mitchell, Jr. School of Engineering. “This new initiative not only enhances their educational experience but also opens up a myriad of possibilities for their future careers, allowing them to explore paths they may not have had the opportunity to consider otherwise.”

Despite nuclear engineering’s critical role in national security and public health, minority representation in the field remains alarmingly low. Current demographic data reveals that approximately 73% of the U.S. nuclear engineering workforce is white, with only 7% identifying as Black or African American. The SPINE program addresses this imbalance by creating pathways for underrepresented groups to enter the field, thus contributing to a more equitable scientific community.

Through hands-on training, collaborative projects, and outreach efforts aimed at K-12 schools and community colleges, the SPINE program seeks to equip students with the skills to tackle nuclear security challenges and promote innovation in the field.

In addition to workforce development, the grant will support research on high-performance, low-cost, lead-free perovskite-based nuclear sensors designed to detect nuclear radiation. These new sensor designs aim to reduce environmental and health risks associated with traditional lead-based models while maintaining high sensitivity levels. The funding will also establish a new laboratory at Morgan State for training and research, fostering collaboration with the Department of Energy and the NNSA.

United for Diversity

Other participating institutions in the SPINE initiative include Navajo Technical University, the University of Puerto Rico at Rio Piedras, Idaho National Laboratory, and Savannah River National Laboratory.

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HBCU Professor Appointed President of the Virgin Islands State Nurses Association

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Dr. Lettersome swearing in.

The University of the Virgin Islands is proud to announce that Dr. Suzette Lettsome, an assistant professor in UVI’s School of Nursing and a passionate advocate for community health, has been appointed as the new President of the Virgin Islands State Nurses Association, an affiliate of the American Nurses Association. This prestigious role reflects Dr. Lettsome’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the nursing profession and promoting the health and well-being of the Virgin Islands community.

Originally from St. Thomas, Dr. Lettsome is an accomplished alumna of UVI, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further honed her expertise with a Master of Science in Public Health Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, followed by a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio. Dr. Lettsome deeply understands the local healthcare landscape. She has nearly a decade of experience in community health nursing. Three of those years include working as as a registered nurse at Schneider Regional Medical Center on St. Thomas.

Returning to UVI

Since joining UVI in 2007, she has served as an assistant professor and contributed to research as a research assistant at UVI’s Caribbean Exploratory Research Center. Her professional affiliations include the Caribbean Nursing Association and the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness.

 “As a nurse, it is an expectation and obligation to belong and actively participate in professional nursing associations. As professors, we are grooming our students and preparing them to enter the professional world,” noted Dr. Letsome.

Dr. Lettsome envisions bringing nurses across various sectors—schools, clinics, and private practices—together under the VISNA umbrella to foster a supportive and collaborative environment. “In my role as president, I aim to unite nurses to advocate for one another, encourage ongoing education, and collectively elevate the nursing profession to have a deeper impact on the health and wellness of our community,” she stated.

Dr. Lettsome highlighted the importance of unity within the Virgin Islands nursing community, “We have nurses that have wonderful skills and do exceptional things in the Territory, but they do it alone. We want to be there to support them, and as an association, we want to give to the body of knowledge to better the quality of nursing care.”

Under her leadership, VISNA will continue to represent the Virgin Islands on regional and national stages. 

HBCU Rehabilitation Project Funded by $750K from National Park Service

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Wilberforce University will soon embark on a significant rehabilitation project to revitalize three key buildings within its academic complex. With a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Fund, the initiative will enhance accessibility and ensure compliance with ADA standards in the Stokes, King, and Walker buildings.

After months of meticulous planning and contractor selection, Wilberforce will begin work with Miami Valley Works, led by Eric Swan, and CED Architects, represented by Craig Dillon. 

A Project to Make Campus More Accessible

The rehabilitation project will introduce several vital upgrades to enhance accessibility for students and faculty. Planned improvements include the installation of new elevators, exterior ramps, upgraded entrance doors, restroom enhancements, and stairlifts. Additionally, the project will connect two currently separate buildings and construct facilities for the university’s music program.

“We are excited about finally moving forward with this project,” said Dr. Kenneth E. Jones, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff at Wilberforce. “It took some time to identify contractors who met federal requisites. However, Wilberforce was committed to seeing this project through to completion, and we are eager to get started.”

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), who announced the grant last year, emphasized the vital role that Historically Black Colleges and Universities play in preserving American history, stating, “By working with our National Park Service to honor key sites at HBCUs, we are preserving the legacy of these institutions. This investment at Wilberforce University gives future generations of Ohioans the opportunity to learn about our state’s proud history.”

Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, President of Wilberforce, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact on the university community and local environment. “This project not only enhances the Wilberforce community by preserving our historic campus but also significantly enhances the value of the Wilberforce community,” he remarked. “Further, by improving accessibility and modernizing our facilities, we are creating a more inclusive and dynamic environment for our students to thrive.”

The rehabilitation project is expected to be completed in 2025.

Southern University’s Social Work Program Celebrates 50 Years of Accredited Impact

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This year marks a significant milestone for the Millie M. Charles School of Social Work at Southern University at New Orleans. The school proudly celebrates 50 years of accreditation for its Bachelor of Social Work program from the Council on Social Work Education. Since its inception in 1974, the program has committed to fostering social justice and equity. It has prepared generations of students to respond to the complex needs of their communities.

The journey of SUNO’s BSW program commenced in 1965 as a minor in the Sociology Department. Recognizing the growing demand for specialized education in social welfare, the university established a dedicated social welfare department in 1972, which laid the groundwork for the BSW program. A mere two years later, the program received its initial accreditation.

The establishment of the BSW program was not only a response to educational needs but also a societal necessity. In 1974, the federal government filed a lawsuit against Louisiana for maintaining a racially segregated higher education system, violating civil rights laws. This resulted in a Consent Decree in 1981. The settlement mandated the development of a Master of Social Work program at SUNO to enhance racial diversity across Louisiana’s public universities.

Following this directive, the School of Social Work was formally established in July 1982, with Millie M. Charles appointed as its founding dean. The MSW program welcomed its first cohort in 1983, furthering its mission to build a diverse student body that reflects the state’s demographics.

Today, SUNO’s social work programs continue to evolve, addressing critical workforce demands in child and family services, health and mental health, and mid-level management. With an increasing shift of social services from federal oversight to state and local governance, SUNO graduates are uniquely poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

POW-MIA Chair of Honor Dedicated at Delaware State University

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Members of the DSU U.S. Army ROTC pose at the POW-MIA “Chair of Honor” along with SFC Chareedra Othman, Andre Swegert, DSU President Tony Allen, and Col. (ret.) Debbie Harrington. The Chair of Honor has been permanently installed in the northwest corner on the first floor of the Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building.

In a ceremony on Veterans Day, Delaware State University unveiled the “POW/MIA Chair of Honor” in tribute to American servicemen and women who have been prisoners of war or are missing in action. This permanent monument in the first-floor northwest corner of the Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who served.

The dedication of the POW/MIA Chair of Honor is part of a broader initiative across Delaware, which has established 68 such chairs statewide to honor veterans from various conflicts, including World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq. A plaque at the foot of the chair commemorates the courage of those who served and emphasizes the importance of remembering their stories.

Andre Swygert, an Air Force veteran, author, and retired U.S. Army Colonel Debbie Harrington, who currently serves as the first Vice Chair of DSU’s Board of Trustees, delivered keynote speeches. 

“I’m proud to be an American for many reasons. But one is that we stand alone in the world when it comes to identifying, retrieving, and honoring our nation’s war dead,” said Swygert. He noted that over 81,900 U.S. personnel remain unaccounted for, a number that includes nearly 78,000 from World War I and 72,000 from World War II, with significant figures also from the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Remembering a DSU Prisoner of War

During the ceremony, Swygert shared the heartbreaking story of Marine Corps Capt. Larry Potts, a Smyrna native and a 1969 graduate of then-Delaware State College. Capt. Potts was involved in a mission to rescue a downed navigator during the Vietnam War when his aircraft was shot down. Despite efforts, he was unable to be rescued and was reported captured, ultimately dying in Quang Binh prison. His story highlights the personal sacrifices endured by veterans and their families.

Colonel Harrington concluded the ceremony with a powerful message: “With this ceremony, we remember and honor the sacrifices made, the lives lost, the families separated, the pain experienced, and the suffering endured. We can never really fully repay such an altruistic debt, but we can remember to remember.”

This dedication aligns with DSU’s initiative titled “Their Stories: Honoring Service, Sacrifice, and Spirit at Delaware State University,” which aims to celebrate veterans’ unique experiences and contributions within the DSU community, including faculty, students, and dependents.

HBCU Chancellor Emeritus Honored with Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award

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In a ceremony held at the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities Annual Meeting, Harold L. Martin Sr., Chancellor Emeritus of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, received the prestigious Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor is bestowed on individuals whose careers reflect an unwavering commitment to the mission and service of public and land-grant universities.

“We’re delighted to recognize Harold Martin with the Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award,,” stated APLU President Mark Becker. “Throughout his career, he not only led North Carolina A&T State University to new heights, but also championed and strengthened the public universities and HBCUs through his service on behalf of the community.”

Martin’s Impact on NC A&T

Dr. Martin’s tenure at NC A&T was marked by significant advancements in enrollment, research, and educational quality. Under his guidance from 2009 to 2024, the university became the largest HBCU in the nation in 2014. It has also continued to lead in producing African American graduates in STEM fields. Enrollment surged from 10,613 to an impressive 13,885 students by 2023.

Beyond enrollment growth, Dr. Martin steered NC A&T towards attaining R1-Very High Research Activity status within the Carnegie Classifications. NC A&T achieving the necessary metrics during his final year as chancellor. 

In addition to his contributions at NC A&T, Dr. Martin has received numerous accolades for his dedication to education and leadership, including the Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s Educational Leader Award and the North Carolina Award, the state’s highest honor, which he will be presented later this week. His involvement extends to significant roles such as serving on the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the APLU Board of Directors.

The Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award is reserved for those who have served as chancellors or presidents of APLU institutions and have demonstrated a longstanding dedication to the ideals of public higher education. The award is named after Peter McPherson, who led APLU from 2006 to September 2022.

HBCU Professor’s Books Address Grief in Young Hearts

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Dr. Linda Holloway with copies of one of her books

In a heartfelt initiative aimed at helping children navigate the difficult emotions surrounding loss, Dr. Linda Holloway, a professor at Alabama State University, has authored two groundbreaking children’s books: “Little Miss Linda Copes with Divorce” and “Little Miss Linda Speaks Out About Death.” With over 30 years of experience in education, Dr. Holloway recognized the pressing need for resources that assist caregivers, educators, and mental health professionals in discussing grief-related topics with young audiences.

The inspiration behind these books stems from the reality that children often face significant life changes that can lead to profound feelings of grief. According to statistics, nearly 50% of marriages end in divorce, impacting the lives of countless children who must adjust to a new family dynamic. As Dr. Holloway points out, both scenarios carry similar emotional weight for children and merit open dialogue.

Coping With Divorce

Dr. Holloway’s books serve as vital tools for initiating discussions about these heavy topics in a safe and accessible manner. In “Little Miss Linda Copes with Divorce,” readers follow Little Miss Linda’s journey as she learns about her parents’ decision to divorce. The story emphasizes reassurance and openness, showcasing how her parents create a “We Love You Jar” to encourage her to express her questions and concerns. 

Discussing Death

Moreover, the landscape of childhood grief has become even more complex in recent years, as many children are compelled to confront the realities of death at alarming rates. Estimates suggest that approximately 6 million children in the U.S. will lose a parent before reaching adulthood, with many also facing the loss of siblings.

Similarly, “Little Miss Linda Speaks Out About Death” addresses the complexities of facing the impending loss of a loved one. When Little Miss Linda learns from her mother that she has a limited time to live, they embark on a journey to create lasting memories together. The book gently navigates the difficult questions surrounding death while encouraging young readers to cherish moments spent with loved ones.

Each book includes thought-provoking “Learning Out Loud” questions to facilitate deeper conversations on these challenging subjects. Additionally, engaging scavenger hunts introduce a playful element that lightens the mood.

“Little Miss Linda Copes with Divorce” and “Little Miss Linda Speaks Out About Death” are available on Amazon.

This was first reported by BlackNews.com.

Bennett College Commemorates 150 Years with Tree-Planting Event

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Bennett College 150 Years Community Tree-Planting Event

Bennett College proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary with a community-focused planting event named “Our Roots Run Deep.” Nearly 200 volunteers gathered on campus to plant 195 native trees. The college’s student-run Green Team led the initiative in partnership with Greensboro Beautiful’s Neighbor Woods program. The goal of the event was to restore Bennett College’s historic landscape. 

Bhali Johnson, a senior majoring in interdisciplinary studies and the president of the Green Team expressed her excitement about the project. “The Green Team has dreamed of replanting the historic native trees on Bennett’s campus. Today is a historic day on campus,” she said. The event not only celebrated the college’s rich history but also emphasized the importance of sustainability and ecological restoration in urban environments.

The vision for this landscaping project dates back to 1938 when then-president David Dallas Jones and landscape architect Charles Gillette originally proposed an ambitious plan to enhance Bennett’s natural beauty with native trees. Unfortunately, this vision was never fully realized, and over the years, many trees were lost due to age, pests, and severe weather events. The college’s iconic 55-acre campus, known for its majestic magnolia and oak trees, has endured significant changes, highlighting the need for proactive reforestation efforts.

Three years prior, the Green Team identified the replanting of Bennett’s historic trees as a critical objective. Anne Hayes, associate professor of global leadership & interdisciplinary studies and advisor to the Green Team, worked closely with landscape architect Randal Romie to develop their plans further. With the college’s milestone anniversary approaching, they set the ambitious target of planting 150 trees.

Planting Trees and Legacy

Bennett College 150 Years Community Tree-Planting Event

On the event day, volunteers of all ages and backgrounds wore commemorative T-shirts. As volunteers planted trees such as white oaks, sugar maples, and southern magnolias, they filled each hole with a pearl—symbolizing the connection between current and future generations of Bennett Belles. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to adopt a tree and contribute to the Tree Legacy Fund, which supports the preservation of newly planted trees.

Coinciding with the planting event, Bennett College also hosted its inaugural Campus Archaeology Day. Dr. Claire Heckel, assistant professor of interdisciplinary studies, utilized the pre-dug holes from the tree planting to conduct archaeological surveys of the campus, potentially uncovering historical artifacts.

HBCU Doctor to Receive 2024 AHA Clinical Research Prize

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Dr. Herman A. Taylor, Jr., MD, MPH, FAHA, an endowed professor and the Morehouse School of Medicine Cardiovascular Research Institute director, is set to receive the 2024 American Heart Association Clinical Research Prize. This prestigious award will be presented during the AHA Scientific Sessions 2024, from Nov. 16-18 in Chicago.

Dr. Taylor expressed his gratitude, stating, “I’m deeply humbled by this award from the American Heart Association. Heart health and disease result from the convergence of many factors.” His research emphasizes understanding how social and environmental contexts influence heart disease, particularly in marginalized communities. He aims to advance precision in prevention and care.

The AHA Scientific Sessions is a premier event showcasing the latest advancements in cardiovascular science. During the Presidential Session on Nov. 17, Dr. Taylor will be honored alongside other notable awardees. Keith Churchwell, MD, FAHA, AHA’s 2024-2025 volunteer president, highlighted Dr. Taylor’s impactful work. “It’s my honor to present this award to Dr. Herman Taylor, whose passion for learning all that influences heart health across all populations is the type of work that moves medicine forward,” said Dr. Churchwell.

Dr. Taylor’s illustrious career includes serving as the principal investigator and founding director of the Jackson Heart Study, a pioneering effort focused on heart health within Black communities. He is also leading the Southeast Hub of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning Consortium to Advance Health Equity and Researcher Diversity initiative, which aims to bolster diversity in AI and machine learning research. Additionally, he directs the Morehouse-Emory Center for Health Equity study, which investigates resilience factors related to heart disease among Black Americans.

As the author of nearly 300 peer-reviewed articles and a member of the National Academy of Medicine, Dr. Taylor’s dedication to advancing health equity continues to inspire future generations in medicine. 

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HBCU Launches Coat and Toy Drive to Support Head Start Program

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Coahoma Community College Campus

In a heartfelt initiative to support children facing challenges this winter, the Social Science Department at Coahoma Community College has launched its Winter Coat and Toy Drive. This year’s drive, in collaboration with the Coahoma Opportunities Head Start Program, aims to provide essential clothing items and toys to local children, ensuring they have the warmth and joy they deserve during the holiday season.

The department is calling for donations of clean or gently used winter coats in sizes ranging from 2T to 6T, along with hats, scarves, gloves, and toys. CCC will distribute all collected items to families within the Clarksdale area, directly benefiting the children enrolled in the Head Start Program. The initiative is especially crucial as winter conditions in Mississippi can be harsh, making this drive an excellent opportunity for the community to unite in support of its youngest members.

Supporting The Youngest Learners

“We’re thrilled to continue our tradition of giving back,” said Vivian Williams, chair of the Social Science Department. “With the help of our community, we hope to not only meet the basic needs of warmth but also to share the joy and spirit of the holiday season with these young children. A simple act of kindness, like donating a coat or a toy, can make a world of difference.”

Community members can drop off their contributions at two convenient locations: the second floor of Whiteside Hall or the J.W. Addison Building on the CCC campus between Oct. 2 and Dec. 3.

The Coahoma Opportunities Head Start Program is committed to providing comprehensive early childhood education and health and nutrition services to children and families in the community. Through initiatives like the Winter Coat and Toy Drive, CCC reinforces its mission to uplift the well-being and development of young children, empowering them and their families toward a brighter future.

HBCU Launches Online Program for Worldwide Learners

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Albany State University has announced the establishment of ASURams Global, a new strategic unit within Academic Affairs designed to elevate the university’s online learning and continuing education initiatives. Under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Jean-Jacques Medastin, ASURams Global will include an administrative office, the Distance Learning Department, and the Office of Continuing and Professional Education. This initiative aims to broaden ASU’s impact by offering high-quality online programs and professional development opportunities to learners worldwide.

“ASURams Global stands at the forefront of global online education while offering a robust array of continuing education opportunities,” said ASU Interim President Dr. Lawrence Drake. “The institution’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility empowers students worldwide to pursue their academic goals despite geographical constraints, fostering a dynamic and enriching online learning environment.”

The establishment of ASURams Global aligns with ASU’s strategic plan to deliver affordable and accessible programs and support student retention and graduation rates. The unit commits to assessing the diverse needs of students and offering resources to enhance their educational experiences. 

Utilizing cutting-edge technology, ASURams Global aims to provide a user-friendly online platform and robust student support throughout the educational journey. The unit will work closely with faculty to design high-quality online courses, including a new fully online Master of Public Administration program. Plans are underway to develop at least four additional online programs by Fall 2025.

Dr. Medastin emphasized the importance of adapting to students’ needs. “We understand the importance of online education today and are committed to offering our students the best possible experience through high-quality training and workshops on best practices,” said Dr. Medastin.  ASURams Global will also focus on expanding workforce readiness and essential life skills through continuous education initiatives in the local community.

For more information about ASURams Global and its offerings, click here. 

HBCU Teams Up with Emmy-Winner Elvin Ross for New Film Courses

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As Dillard University celebrates the 90th anniversary of its esteemed Theatre Department, it is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with EMMY award-winning composer Elvin Ross. The Louisiana native and CEO/Founder of E. Ross Studios School of Film & Television is spearheading an innovative academic initiative that promises to redefine the landscape of film and television education in the region.

New Film Course Offerings

Beginning this month, the DU/SFTV partnership will roll out a series of certificate and master class courses designed to integrate technology with creative expression. These programs will enhance skill development and focus on job placement, career advancement, and community impact. Initially targeted at Dillard University students, the program will later expand to include participants from JOB1, the City of New Orleans Workforce Development Initiative, as well as current professionals in the film and television industry.

“Given Dillard University’s commitment to education and enriching cultural life in New Orleans, we are looking forward to this collaboration with E. Ross Studios and the opportunities for innovation, creativity, and community engagement,” stated Monique Guillory, interim president of Dillard University. “Our students and faculty will have opportunities with student exchanges, master classes, and hands-on experiences in a groundbreaking approach to learning and artistic expression. This initiative fits with Dillard’s historic grounding in the humanities and brings new opportunities for the Film Studies program at Dillard.”

Collaboration in Action

In celebration of this partnership, Dillard University is currently showcasing vibrant lighting displays on the buildings facing Gentilly Boulevard. This visual art is the result of the Light and Art Installations course, which is taught by industry veteran and DU/SFTV instructor Jason Lanier.

Elvin Ross expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing its potential to foster a thriving artistic community. “At E. Ross Studios School of Film & Television, we believe in the power of storytelling to transform lives and forge connections. This collaborative effort with Dillard University to launch our comprehensive program is not just about education; it’s about building a vibrant community of creators who will shape the future of entertainment,” said Ross. “Together, we are laying the groundwork for a thriving film industry in the Southeast—one that empowers diverse voices and nurtures talent at every level.”

Mississippi Valley State Football Player Dies in Car Crash

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The Mississippi Valley State University community is mourning the tragic loss of Ryan Quinney, a junior linebacker for the Delta Devils football team, who died in a car crash on Friday. 

Ryan Quinney
Photo Courtesy of MVSU

MVSU confirmed Quinney’s death in a heartfelt social media announcement made Saturday morning. “We are heartbroken to share that our beloved student, Ryan Quinney, tragically lost his life in a car accident last night. Ryan was a bright light in our community with a spirit that lifted everyone around him. He will be deeply missed by his friends, faculty, and all who knew him.,” the post read. The university extended its condolences to Quinney’s family and friends during this difficult time, urging the community to remember his positive impact and support one another through their grief. “Let us remember Ryan’s impact on our lives and honor his memory by supporting each other through this loss. Rest in peace, Ryan.”

Originally from Mobile, Alabama, Quinney transferred to the MVSU Delta Devils football program from Lane College. According to the university’s athletics website, he recorded 13 tackles in five games this season.

Honoring Quinney

In a poignant display of solidarity, the Delta Devils played against Jackson State the day after Quinney’s death, where both teams’ captains honored the memory of their fallen colleague in a touching moment of respect and unity.

According to Yazoo County Coroner, the vehicle Quinney was in was fleeing from law enforcement at the time of the accident. The pursuit reportedly began in Flora and continued into Yazoo City, where the driver lost control. The vehicle left the road, struck a parked car, became airborne, and ultimately overturned after hitting a light pole. Quinney was pronounced dead at the scene, while the driver sustained injuries and was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

Howard Alumna Earns First GRAMMY Nomination

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Christie Dashiell pictured.

Christie Dashiell, the celebrated vocalist and composer, has made headlines as a first-time GRAMMY nominee for her album “Journey in Black.” The collection was nominated for Best Jazz Vocal Album. The announcement is a significant milestone in her career, characterized by a unique blend of jazz, rhythm and blues, gospel, and soul.

Dashiell took to Instagram to express her gratitude, stating, “Congratulations to my fellow #GRAMMYs nominees! I’m honored to become a first-time GRAMMY nominee and grateful to the @recordingacademy for this recognition. Can’t wait to be part of Music’s Biggest Night on @cbstv and celebrate alongside you on Feb. 2, 2025!”

Born To Be A Musician

Born in Washington, D.C., and raised in North Carolina, Dashiell has been immersed in music since childhood. She grew up in a family rich in musical talent, including her father, renowned jazz bassist Carroll Dashiell, Jr. A proud graduate of Howard University and the Manhattan School of Music, she honed her craft as a member of Howard’s prestigious vocal jazz ensemble, Afro-Blue. Dashiell also gained national attention by appearing on NBC’s “The Sing-Off.”

Her debut solo album, “Time All Mine,” made waves on the Billboard Jazz Charts. She has collaborated with esteemed artists, including the Grammy-nominated ensemble Sweet Honey in the Rock and jazz legend Wynton Marsalis. Currently serving on the faculty at Temple University, Howard University, and The University of the District of Columbia, Dashiell continues to inspire the next generation of musicians.

The GRAMMY Nominated Album

“Journey in Black” is a compelling exploration of themes such as freedom, legacy, grief, and joy. It features an array of talented musicians and creative guidance from NEA Jazz Master Dianne Reeves. With this nomination, Dashiell’s artistry and resilience shine brightly, marking her as a rising star in the jazz world. 

Spelman College Receives $2.5M to Launch Strategic and Security Studies Center

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Spelman College has received a significant boost in its mission to empower women of color in leadership roles within the international strategic affairs and intelligence community. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence awarded the college a $2.5 million grant to establish the Spelman Strategic and Security Studies Center.

This five-year grant is part of ODNI’s Intelligence Community Centers for Academic Excellence program. It aims to enhance the United States’ strategic priorities through educational initiatives. The funding will support a range of opportunities, including study abroad programs, critical language studies, and scholarships for a proposed new minor in international strategic studies.

The new Center will be developed through collaborative efforts with various departments at Spelman College. Included are the Gordon-Zeto Center for Global Education led by Vice Provost for Global Education Dr. ‘Dimeji Togunde, the Department of Political Science chaired by Dr. Kasahun Woldemariam, and the Department of World Languages and Cultures chaired by Dr. Jacqueline Alvarez-Rosales.

“This grant enables Spelman to prepare a cohort of students to take their rightful places in conversations that will shape, define, and critique international strategic affairs and national security issues and help build a better world,” stated Dr. Tinaz Pavri, chair of Spelman’s Division of Social Sciences and Education and principal investigator for the grant. She emphasized that the initiative will empower students to leverage their unique talents, values, and lived experiences in national and international debates.

The ODNI oversees the U.S. Intelligence Community and directs the implementation of the National Intelligence Program, emphasizing academic excellence and innovative practices. The Spelman Strategic and Security Studies Center aims to:

Mission of the Spelman Strategic and Security Studies Center

Enhance Educational Programs

The Center will develop a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications in international affairs, intelligence, and security.

Expand Linguistic and Cultural Competencies

The center will provide essential language training and cultural education to equip students with vital skills necessary for effective participation in global operations.

Cultivate a Diverse Pipeline of Professionals

The initiative seeks to produce highly qualified graduates whose diverse backgrounds and perspectives will strengthen the U.S. intelligence community and prepare them for pivotal roles in international affairs.

The Spelman Strategic and Security Studies Center will be affiliated with Spelman’s Center of Excellence for Black Women in STEM.