Remarkable Couple Recognized for Their Impact on N.C. A&T and Beyond

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North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has named two spaces at the Harold L. Martin Sr. Engineering Research and Innovation Complex for the Rev. Dr. John L. Williams ’96 and Elnita L. Williams.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University recognized the significant contributions of the Rev. Dr. John L. Williams, a proud alumnus of the class of 1996, and his wife, Elnita L. Williams, by officially naming two spaces in the Harold L. Martin Sr. Engineering Research and Innovation Complex in their honor. The areas, John L. Williams Enrichment Way and Elnita Lipford Williams Enlightenment Way are located on the fourth floor of the complex.

During a ceremony on Nov. 1, Kenneth E. Sigmon Jr., vice chancellor for University Advancement, praised the Williamses for their unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community service. “Rev. Dr. Williams and Elnita L. Williams’ presence at North Carolina A&T exemplifies the spirit of social engagement, community collaboration, and personal and professional development,” he stated.

Rev. Dr. John L. Williams

Rev. Dr. John L. Williams has dedicated over two decades to serving as the pastor of Flat Creek Baptist Church in Darlington, South Carolina. In addition to his pastoral role, he has built a successful career as a senior engineer in Florence, SC. His leadership extends beyond his church as he actively participates in various organizations, including the Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce and the South Carolina ETV Community Advisory Council. He is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm and holds degrees from N.C. A&T, Webster University, and United Theological Seminary.

Elnita L. Williams

Elnita L. Williams, an accomplished businesswoman and advocate for human services, has significantly impacted the lives of underserved communities. She has worked to improve mental health services and student support through her involvement in educational programs and mentorship initiatives. Her contributions to organizations like the Center Community Coalition Mentoring Program, the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, and the Boys and Girls Clubs showcase her dedication to community upliftment. She also boasts a rich background in education, having taught at Piedmont Technical College for 11 years and authored the book “I’m First Lady, Now What?” published in 2010.

The Williamses have established numerous ministries at Flat Rock Baptist Church that assist senior citizens and college students, including drug prescription support and reimbursements for books and supplies. Their partnership with Harvest Hope Food Bank exemplifies their commitment to addressing food insecurity in the Darlington area.

HBCU Receives $4.8M NIH Grant to Study Alzheimer’s Disease

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North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University’s Center for Outreach in Alzheimer’s, Aging and Community Health has received a significant boost in funding with a five-year, $4.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health. This grant aims to investigate Alzheimer’s disease among middle-aged African Americans, a demographic that has been historically underrepresented in Alzheimer’s research.

The funding was secured by COAACH director Dr. Travonia Brown-Huges and is part of the prestigious NIH R01 funding program. The program is known as the “gold standard” for independent research grants. “By receiving this award, a researcher has demonstrated through a highly competitive peer review process both scientific merit and potential impact represented in their preliminary data,” noted Melissa Hodge-Penn, Ed.D., interim vice chancellor of the Division of Research at N.C. A&T.

The Research Game Plan

The NIH, a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services division, is renowned as the largest biomedical research agency globally, committed to preventing disease and enhancing health outcomes. The newly funded project is titled “The Black American United Memory and Aging Project: An Examination of Cognitive Decline in Mid-life & Older Black Adults.” It aims to explore biopsychosocial factors affecting cognitive health among 600 participants aged 55 and older.

Dr. Abdellah Ahmidouch, dean of the College of Science and Technology, expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of this research. “Researching Alzheimer’s disease in middle-aged African Americans holds the potential for earlier detection, more effective treatments, and tailored prevention strategies, helping to reduce health disparities. This work aligns with our mission as both an HBCU and a land-grant institution dedicated to advancing science and serving underrepresented communities,” he said. 

This innovative study will be conducted entirely online. Esteemed collaborating institution partners include Johns Hopkins University, Clemson University, Michigan’s William Beaumont Hospital, and the Maya Angelou Center for Health Equity at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

Morgan State University Hits Historic Enrollment Milestone: 10,739 

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Morgan State male students

Morgan State University has announced a significant increase in enrollment for the Fall 2024 semester, reaching a record total of 10,739 students. Morgan State is now the third-largest HBCU behind North Carolina A&T and Howard University. 

This spike marks the fourth consecutive year of growth and represents a 9.4% increase from the previous year. There were 2,369 new first-year students, a nearly 4% rise compared to the freshman class of 2023. Additionally, Morgan State achieved its highest graduate school enrollment ever, with 1,712 students pursuing advanced degrees.

The university received a staggering 24,414 applications for Fall 2024, with 96% coming from first-time freshman applicants. The new freshman class includes students from 41 states and seven countries, boasting an average high school GPA of 3.16. Notably, 51% of the new undergraduate students come from outside Maryland, while 53% of Morgan’s overall student body are state residents.

“Morgan’s record-breaking enrollment for Fall 2024 is a testament to the growing recognition of the transformative education and opportunities we offer,” said David K. Wilson, president of Morgan State University. “The enthusiasm reflected in the 24,000-plus applications we received underscores our mission’s impact and our brand’s strength. As we continue to break barriers and set new benchmarks, Morgan remains committed to empowering students to achieve academic excellence and make meaningful contributions to society.”

The Reason Behind the Enrollment Surge

Morgan State assembly event

When asked about their reasons for choosing Morgan, nearly half of the first-year respondents cite wanting to attend an HBCU, with Morgan as their top choice. U.S. News & World Report ranked Morgan among the top 10 HBCUs in its “Best Colleges” list for the first time in over a decade. Factors influencing students’ decisions included financial aid, campus facilities, and academic programs.

Morgan State offers more than 150 academic programs leading to various degrees. Since 2020, the university has introduced over 30 new high-demand programs that address workforce needs. Popular majors among this year’s freshmen include Nursing, Psychology, Management, Business Administration, Biology, and Computer Science.

Graduate enrollment also saw notable growth, with the School of Graduate Studies reporting a 14% increase. By increasing its number of doctoral graduates, the university aims to elevate its status to R1, a designation for very high doctoral research universities.

As Morgan State continues to expand its student population, it maintains a strong focus on retention. It achieved a rate of over 70% for the 14th consecutive year and has consistently exceeded a graduation rate of 40% for the past six years. 

HBCU Student Faces $5K Bill Due to Financial Aid Mix-Up 

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Tennessee State University demands repayment of a nearly $5,000 excess financial aid check issued to a student last year, highlighting systemic financial difficulties within the historically Black university.

Chekesha Ibrahimzakaria’s son, a sophomore at TSU who received a full-ride scholarship, cannot register for spring classes or secure a dorm assignment due to a hold on his account for an unpaid balance of $4,900. That is the same amount he received in an excess financial aid check in the fall of his first year. 

“Because they made a mistake, they want my son and others like him to make up for their mistake,” Ibrahimzakaria told News Channel 5 Nashville. 

Ibrahimzakaria, who has a long-standing legacy with TSU, expresses disappointment with the institution that holds such significance for her family. “It’s too stressful for the students,” she said, as her son plans to transfer to another university to complete his degree.

An Ongoing Financial Battle

The issue of excessive financial aid payments follows troubling reports from state officials regarding TSU’s financial health. In a recent hearing, the Tennessee Senate Finance Chairman stated that the university faced severe financial challenges, requiring funds earmarked for 2025 to be advanced to support the current school year. Lawmakers warned that continued financial support for payroll was becoming unsustainable. 

“The previous president, administration, and trustees operated this university in such a way as literally you are out of money,” Jason Mumpower, the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury, said during the committee meeting earlier this month. He noted that an infusion of cash from the state was necessary to avoid failing payroll on November 29.

In efforts to address its financial crisis, TSU laid off staff this fall. This move reflects ongoing struggles exacerbated by monthly payroll costs ranging from $18 to $20 million, a surge in enrollment leading to housing shortages, and issues with distributing scholarship funds. 

(Sourced from Black Enterprise) 

NC A&T Launches State’s First Stand-Alone Bachelor’s Degree in Artificial Intelligence 

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In a groundbreaking move for higher education in North Carolina, the University of North System Board of Governors has approved a bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State. This marks the only stand-alone AI degree in the state and one of the few nationwide.

While several universities in North Carolina offer concentrations in AI within their computer science programs, A&T stands out as the sole institution offering a dedicated bachelor’s degree in AI. Plans are already in motion to expand this initiative with graduate degree options in the field.

AI continues to transform various industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and entertainment. As it does, the demand for skilled professionals capable of employing AI technologies responsibly is surging. A&T’s Hanover Research report highlights that the AI labor market in North Carolina will likely grow more than three times faster than the overall job market, potentially creating over 20,000 new positions.

“Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are increasingly part of everyday life with the potential for profound and far-reaching impact on virtually every facet of society,” said Chancellor James R. Martin II. “ Our new bachelor’s degree will prepare students for immediate impact, especially in the critical area of human interaction with AI.”

The newly established program will offer two concentrations: Advanced AI Systems through the College of Engineering and Applied AI in the College of Science and Technology. Both tracks will include flexible delivery formats, allowing students to choose between on-campus and online courses.

A&T aims to enroll its first cohort in Fall 2025, equipping graduates with a solid foundation in AI principles, advanced techniques, and practical applications essential for tackling real-world challenges.

A Leader in AI

A&T’s strong ties with industry giants such as NVIDIA, Google, Microsoft, and Boeing, alongside participation in prominent AI initiatives like the Athena AI research center, provide students with invaluable opportunities for hands-on experience and mentorship from AI experts.

“It’s nearly impossible to overestimate the impact of AI in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” said COE Dean Stephanie Luster-Teasley Pass.

CoST Dean Abdellah Ahmidouch emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “Our bachelor’s degree will enable our graduates to help create real-world solutions to complex global issues and shape a brighter future through science and technology.” 

With the approval of this pioneering degree, A&T is set to cultivate a new generation of highly qualified, diverse talent poised to excel in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. 

SWAC Closes Jackson State Cheating Investigation 

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Jackson State V. UAPB game

On Tuesday, the Southwestern Athletic Conference officially concluded its investigation into the allegations regarding Jackson State University’s potential unauthorized usage of practice film from the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The conference released a statement asserting that after a thorough review, which included IT analyses and interviews, there was insufficient evidence to substantiate claims of unethical conduct by Jackson State. 

SWAC’s Statement

“On Friday, November 8th, the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) was made aware of allegations regarding the potential unauthorized usage of practice film. After conducting a comprehensive review of the information received, which included an IT analysis provided by DVSportINC, both oral and written statements, written statements from both institutions, individual interviews, along with the consultation of legal counsel, the Conference Office does not have enough substantial evidence to prove any allegations of unethical conduct by Jackson State University,” the statement reads. 

“The Southwestern Athletic Conference has officially concluded its investigation but reserves the right to review any additional information received on this matter.”

How the Investigation Unfolded

The investigation was initiated after UAPB raised concerns about potential breaches of ethics regarding the sharing of their practice footage, which they believed may have been accessed by Jackson State prior to their game on Nov. 2. The concerns arose after a UAPB player reported that a Jackson State player claimed their team was watching UAPB’s practice footage. Upon investigating, UAPB’s head coach found that the practice video had been accessed using a former player’s credentials. This unauthorized access was traced to an IP address in Clinton, Mississippi, close to Jackson.

UAPB officials did not comment publicly during the investigation, and Jackson State also remained silent. The former player implicated in the incident denied any wrongdoing and highlighted issues with credential security within the team. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, it is unclear why UAPB continued granting access to accounts after players were released.

HBCU Foundation to Invest $3.4M in Student Housing Renovations 

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The FSU Foundation, Inc., a public charity that supports Fayetteville State University, has announced a significant investment plan of over $3.4 million to renovate student housing along Murchison Road over the next five years. This initiative reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the Murchison corridor and driving community reinvestment efforts.

Ben Brown, chair of the FSU Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the project. “As an affiliate of the University, the FSU Foundation is here to support Fayetteville State University. We are pleased to work collaboratively with university leaders to show how the Foundation is partnering to provide improvements to the University Place Apartments. This is just the beginning,” said Brown.

As part of this investment, the University Place Apartments, situated directly across from the FSU campus, will undergo targeted internal and external renovations. 

FSU Chancellor Darrell T. Allison voiced his support for the foundation’s decision. “I am extremely pleased with our foundation’s decision to reinvest funds into our largest student housing facility, including renovations that impact FSU students and the transformation of Murchison Road,” said Allison.

This announcement follows the recent opening of a Chick-fil-A location in Bronco Midtown, further highlighting the University’s commitment to enhancing the campus and surrounding area. Chancellor Allison noted, “We are proud of what is happening at Bronco Midtown, and this continues our efforts in partnering with the City of Fayetteville and greater Cumberland community to uplift the image of Murchison Road along with our local officials.”

The FSU Foundation’s investment aligns with the Murchison Choice Neighborhood Initiative. The initiative seeks to revitalize and reinvest in the area, strengthening ties between the university and the Fayetteville community.

HBCU Empowers Students with Exclusive FBI Collegiate Academy Experience

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Tennessee State University recently hosted the FBI Collegiate Academy for the second consecutive year, offering students an exclusive opportunity to gain insight into federal careers and agency operations.

Agents lead a presentation
FBI personnel conduct a crime-scene investigation with TSU students.

Nearly 40 students from various disciplines participated in the academy. Students engaged in an immersive experience that covered essential FBI functions, including crime scene investigation, intelligence analysis, crisis negotiation, cyber and digital forensics, community awareness, and crisis management. The program culminated in workshops focused on resume-building and interview techniques, led by FBI experts. Each participant received a certificate of completion in recognition of their involvement.

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Since its inception in 2022, TSU has made history as Tennessee’s first institution to host the FBI Collegiate Academy. It highlights the dedicated partnership with the Bureau aimed at connecting students with career pathways in federal law enforcement.

Making An Impact

Kolby Jones, a criminal justice sophomore from Maryland, spoke about the value of the academy in fostering career readiness. “I can use my skill set, apply it, and excel,” said Jones, who aspires to join the SWAT team after graduation. “These new influences and partnerships are creating even more opportunities for HBCU students.”

Kolby Jones sports an FBI flak vest during an exercise at the Collegiate Academy event.
Kolby Jones sports an FBI flak vest during an exercise at the Collegiate Academy event.

The academy kicked off with welcoming remarks from Dr. Rodney Stanley, interim dean of the College of Public Service; Dr. Robbie K. Melton, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs; Dr. Kimberly Triplett, professor and coordinator of the Public Service Program; and Dr. Samantha Morgan-Curtis, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI’s Tennessee office and Public Affairs Officer Elizabeth Clement Webb also addressed students.

Dr. Stanley highlighted the academy’s significance. “This program provides an invaluable chance for students interested in law enforcement careers to engage directly with active FBI agents who will be leading the sessions,” Stanley said.

He added that the FBI is keen to recruit graduates from diverse fields due to the increasing complexities associated with cybercrime, bioterrorism, money laundering, and other modern challenges. The current cohort demonstrated how majors such as urban studies, computer science, biology, and accounting play vital roles in combating crime today.

The FBI Collegiate Academy at TSU provided students with hands-on experiences, including interactive crime scene investigations and presentations from Crisis Negotiation and SWAT team members. 

Interested candidates can find current job openings listed on the FBI’s official website. 

Florida A&M Volleyball Captures Third SWAC Title in Four Years

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FAMU Volleyball players with championship rings

Florida A&M University volleyball team added another championship to its record by clinching the Southwestern Athletic Conference Volleyball Tournament title with a 3-1 victory over defending champions Jackson State on Sunday at Grambling State’s Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center. This triumph marks the Rattlers’ third title in the last four years, having previously secured the championship in 2021 and 2022.

The Rattlers showcased their dominance throughout the tournament, finishing with an impressive overall record of 27-6. FAMU’s head coach, Gokhan Yilmaz, who has led the program since 2018, achieved his third 20-win season this year. The team’s 27 victories set a new single-season record for Yilmaz, surpassing their 25-7 record from 2021.

Standout Performances

In the championship match, FAMU won the first two sets 25-23 before losing the third 8-25. However, the Rattlers rebounded strongly in the fourth set, sealing the match with a 25-15 win. Outside hitter Brooke Lynn Watts delivered a standout performance, finishing with double-digit kills and earning both the tournament MVP and All-Tournament honors—recognition shared with teammates Isis Williams and Makenzie Taylor.

FAMU’s path to the championship was paved by a perfect regular season in SWAC play, concluding with a 19-0 record against conference opponents. Their success included a flawless home record of 13-0 at the Al Lawson Center. Entering the postseason on a seven-match winning streak, the Rattlers proved they were ready for the challenge.

“Our preseason made us ready for conference this season,” said assistant coach Dominique Washington. “Those games prepared us for the conference..”

Representing the SWAC

The Rattlers will now represent the SWAC at the NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball Tournament, and the official bracket will be revealed on Dec. 1.

As the Rattlers celebrate their latest achievement, the team remains focused on what lies ahead. “We have to stick together as a team and work even harder,” libero Tinons Galmes emphasized. Florida A&M volleyball is poised to make a significant impact on the national stage. 

Prairie View A&M Breaks Up With Head Football Coach Bubba McDowell

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Prairie View A&M University has announced that head football coach Bubba McDowell’s contract will not be renewed following a three-year tenure with the Panthers. The decision comes after a challenging season that concluded with a disappointing 5-7 record.

Prairie View head coach Bubba McDowell against Alabama State during their game on Saturday September 24, 2022. Asup48 / Mickey Welsh / Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK
Prairie View head coach Bubba McDowell against Alabama State during their game on Saturday . 24, 2022. Asup48 / Mickey Welsh / Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK

McDowell, 58 is former All-Pro safety in the NFL.  He played for the Houston Oilers and the Carolina Panthers from 1989 to 1995. McDowell succeeded Eric Dooley as head of the PVAMU football program in 2022. Additionally, he was part of the University of Miami team that won the national championship in 1987. Under his leadership, the Panthers achieved back-to-back Southwestern Athletic Conference West Division titles. However, the recent downturn in performance is ultimately suspected to have led to the university’s decision.

Athletic Director Anton Goff expressed gratitude for McDowell’s contributions to the program, highlighting his dedication to mentoring student-athletes. “Coach McDowell’s commitment to helping our student-athletes succeed in life both personally and professionally is admirable and a true reflection of his character,” Goff said in a statement.

In light of the recent changes, Goff indicated that the university will initiate a national search for McDowell’s successor immediately. The goal is to find a candidate with the vision and leadership skills necessary to elevate the program within both SWAC and FCS football ranks.

As the Panthers begin this new chapter, assistant head coach Ashton Green will step in as interim head coach while the search for a permanent replacement unfolds. 

Job Cuts at HBCU: Sacrifice Made Ahead of Accreditation Review 

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Saint Augustine's University in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Saint Augustine’s University is proactively steering its course toward financial stability as it approaches a critical accreditation meeting with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges in December. As part of its efforts to enhance fiscal responsibility, the university plans to eliminate several positions this month, affecting both part-time and full-time non-faculty employees and some vacant positions. 

“As stewards of this institution, our focus is on its long-term sustainability through shared governance,” said Hadley Evans, Jr., vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees and Chair of the Finance Committee. “While we recognize the seriousness of these financial adjustments, these decisions are essential for safeguarding the future of Saint Augustine’s University and the students we serve.”

Last December, SACSCOC voted to remove SAU from membership after two years of warnings concerning its financial status. Following the denial of their appeal in February, the SACSCOC arbitration committee reversed its decision in July, reinstating SAU’s accreditation but placing it on probation. A team from SACSCOC visited the university last month for a follow-up, and the board will vote on the next steps regarding SAU in December.

“The momentum we are building is promising,” said Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “While difficult, we acknowledge the seriousness of our financial challenges, and these measures are crucial for our long-term sustainability. We are committed to transforming SAU into a financially stable institution that prioritizes the success of our students and stakeholders. Our ongoing efforts to stabilize the financial condition of Saint Augustine’s University are now showing tangible results—our community is responding positively, and we are excited about our future. Together, we will work diligently to rebuild our foundation.”

Proactive Steps Towards Accreditation Standards

In a comprehensive strategy to ensure compliance with SACSCOC and secure its accreditation, SAU has reduced expenses by approximately $17 million for fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023. The significant reductions involved difficult decisions, including a 41% reduction in full-time faculty, a 67% reduction in adjunct faculty, and a 57% reduction among adjunct faculty. Additionally, the university has discontinued several under-enrolled programs and is actively settling outstanding balances with vendors to restore financial integrity and ensure sustainable operations.

SAU has reported several significant milestones towards enhancing financial stability and demonstrating compliance with accreditation standards, including:

  • Completion of four financial audits for fiscal years 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
  • Securing a critical agreement with Gothic Ventures to ensure operational continuity for the 2024-2025 academic year.
  • Restoration of employee payroll and health insurance benefits.
  • Implementing a comprehensive cost optimization strategy alongside a robust financial sustainability plan.
  • Strengthening oversight regarding essential financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
  • The dismissal of the SAVE SAU Coalition lawsuit against the board of trustees.

Despite recent challenges, SAU reports support from alumni, with contributions holding steady over the past three years. Additionally, the university has received over 700 enrollment applications for Fall 2025.

Sale Falls Through: Miles College Continues Pursuit of Birmingham-Southern Campus

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Despite a recent negotiation setback, Miles College President Bobbie Knight expressed her determination to acquire the now-closed Birmingham-Southern College campus. Knight shared her disappointment with AL.com after the college’s request for a second extension on its purchase agreement was denied.

The 192-acre Birmingham property was placed back on the market on Nov. 25, following the expiration of a purchase agreement originally signed two months earlier. Initially set to close on Oct. 25, Miles College had sought an extension to both Nov. 25 and a further extension to Dec. 25. However, the Birmingham-Southern College Board of Trustees turned down the latest request.

“We are not going to stop trying,” Knight stated. “I’m feeling fine. Just have more work to do.” 

In a press release, BSC trustees acknowledged their respect for Miles College and its community but stressed the urgency of selling the campus to fulfill obligations to creditors. “To meet its commitments to lenders and other creditors, the BSC Board of Trustees is obligated to sell the 192-acre campus property as quickly as possible,” the statement read.

Birmingham-Southern’s financial struggles have been well documented, culminating in the decision to cease operations in March 2024 after failing to secure a $30 million bridge loan from the state legislature. 

With the expiration of the purchase agreement, it remains uncertain if Alabama A&M University, which previously submitted bids for the campus, will re-enter the bidding process. Earlier this year, Alabama A&M proposed a $52 million offer, later raising its offer to $65.5 million. However, those proposals were ultimately rejected due to being deemed “considerably lower” than competing bids.

HBCU Sports Spotlight: Janaya Spivey, Mississippi Valley State University

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Meet Janaya Spivey, the head coach of the Mississippi Valley State University Cheerleading team, who is making waves in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Born in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Spivey discovered her passion for cheerleading at a young age and has dedicated herself to the sport ever since.

“I have been a cheerleader since kindergarten,” said Spivey.

While cheering for her junior high team, her mother helped take her skills to the next level by enrolling her in tumbling classes. After graduating from Newton High School in Newton, Mississippi, Spivey chose to attend MVSU, where she initially pursued cheerleading and track and field. However, her love for cheerleading shone through, and during her freshman year, she decided to focus solely on cheer. Over the next four years, she became a staple of the Delta Devils cheer program, leading the team as lead captain from 2020 to 2021. She graduated in 2022 with a degree in Biology.

Cheerleader to Head Cheer Coach

In the summer of 2023, Spivey took on the challenge of becoming the head coach for the MVSU Cheerleading team. Although she was an experienced cheerleader, stepping into a coaching role presented new challenges. “I knew plenty about cheer but nothing about coaching, budgets, and paperwork,” Spivey explained. Fortunately, she found guidance and support from her former coaches and the athletic staff, which helped ease her transition into this leadership position.

Tumbling Over Hurdles

Spivey is no stranger to the obstacles faced by athletic programs. She recognizes the struggles of recruiting and retaining committed athletes, sometimes without the availability of scholarships or other incentives. Yet, she remains undeterred, driven by her mission to instill teamwork, discipline, and school spirit within her team.

A Proud Moment

One of Spivey’s proudest moments as a coach came on Senior Day when she watched her first set of seniors walk the field and then graduate. This milestone not only highlighted her impact on her athletes’ lives but also reinforced her commitment to their success beyond cheerleading.

Throughout her journey, Spivey has been inspired by her faith and often reflects on the powerful message from Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This mantra speaks to the greater purpose behind her work and the positive impact she aims to have on her athletes.

Looking Ahead

As a coach at an HBCU, Spivey embraces the diverse styles of cheerleading she’s encountered throughout her career, fostering an open-minded coaching philosophy that values each athlete’s unique contributions. Looking to the future, she is committed to elevating the cheerleading program at MVSU by enhancing resources and focusing on recruitment efforts to make it a standout feature of MVSU Athletics.

Spivey offers this invaluable advice to aspiring cheerleaders and coaches: “Always remember why you fell in love with your sport.” With her passion fueling her journey, Janaya Spivey will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift the next generation of cheerleaders at Mississippi Valley State University.

Foundation Establishes XULA PreMed Scholarship Fund with $125K Donation

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The FBR Foundation has made a significant impact on the future of aspiring medical professionals by donating $125,000 to create the Fred Renwick Endowed Scholarship for PreMed Students at Xavier University of Louisiana. This generous endowment honors the legacy of Dr. Fred Blackwell Renwick, a distinguished educator and advocate for student success.

Honoring Dr. Fred Blackwell Renwick

Fred Renwick
Fred Renwick

Dr. Renwick, who passed away in 2014, had a notable career as a Professor Emeritus at New York University’s Leonard Stern School of Business, where he taught from 1965 until his retirement in 2001. A Morehouse College alumnus, he also held degrees from Harvard University and NYU and received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Morehouse in 2007. His wealth of knowledge and experience spanned various fields, including defense and space exploration, alongside his prolific writing career.

In honoring Dr. Renwick’s parents’ aspirations for him to pursue medicine, the FBR Foundation established this scholarship fund to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in pre-medicine programs at Xavier University. The fund will specifically benefit juniors and seniors who have declared their intent to pursue medical school.

“We sincerely appreciate the financial support of the FBR Foundation to assist our premedical students in realizing their dreams of becoming physicians,” said Reynold Verret, President of Xavier University of Louisiana. ” It is beautiful that the foundation commits to our student success with this generous gift. We are indeed proud of our premedical program and its contribution to equitable healthcare throughout the decades.”

Support for Future Medical Professionals

Xavier University boasts a strong track record in preparing African American students for medical school. Over the past two decades, 803 Xavier graduates have earned medical degrees in the United States. A recent Association of American Medical Colleges report highlighted Xavier’s position as one of the leading institutions for producing African American physicians.

“The fact that so many students from Xavier continue on to medical school or become part of the healthcare system and work in the field of medicine is in line with our decision to support education opportunities in healthcare where African American physicians are underrepresented,” said Lynne Mueller, President of The FBR Foundation. “This Scholarship is an appropriate way to honor Dr. Renwick, who always had a great affinity for his students; we want to do our best to honor Fred’s legacy.”

The Fred Renwick Endowed Scholarship for PreMed Students will be awarded annually in the spring semester. The premedical office will select the recipient based on eligibility criteria. 

N.C. A&T Calls for Nominations for 2025 Human Rights Medal

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NCAT Human Rights Medal

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is now accepting nominations for the prestigious 2025 Human Rights Medal. Submissions are due by Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. This esteemed award honors individuals who have made significant long-term contributions to the advancement of civil rights, civil liberties, and human rights.

The Human Rights Medal is named in recognition of the heroic actions of the A&T Four—Ezell Blair Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), Franklin Eugene McCain, Joseph Alfred McNeil, and David Richmond Jr.—who sparked a transformative movement in American history. On Feb. 1, 1960, these courageous freshmen initiated a sit-in at a segregated lunch counter at Woolworth’s in Greensboro, igniting protests and inspiring activists across the nation.

N.C. A&T emphasizes that nominees can come from beyond the university community, provided they are U.S. citizens. The candidates will be evaluated based on their impactful actions, the needs they address, and the breadth of their contributions to their communities, whether at the local, state, national, or international level.

Notable past recipients of the medal include N.C. Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls, the late civil rights icon Congressman John Lewis, and activists Rev. Nelson and Joyce Johnson, along with Congresswoman Alma Adams ’68 ’72.

The selected honoree will be notified in December and invited to receive the award during the annual Sit-In Breakfast program. The recipient must be available to accept the award in person on campus or virtually if preferred on Jan. 31, 2025 .

For those interested in submitting a nomination, access the nomination packet here.

HBCU Secures $750K for Vital Restoration of Historic House

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Hope House DSU Downtown

Delaware State University is set to embark on an exciting preservation project with the recent awarding of a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service, part of the Department of the Interior. The funding will be used to repair and rehabilitate the Hope House, a historic building over 139 years old located on the DSU Downtown campus.

The grant is part of a broader initiative, allocating $10 million to several historically Black colleges and universities nationwide to protect and preserve their historic properties. Dr. Eleanor Kiesel, senior associate dean of the DSU Wesley College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, played a pivotal role in securing this grant through diligent research and proposal writing. The grant was awarded in July 2024, and work will commence soon.

About the Historic Hope House

Constructed initially before 1885 and showcasing Queen Anne architectural features, the Hope House is a notable structure and a crucial hub for student programming and social services at DSU. It offers counseling services, self-care activities, and cultural connections and will engage the local community in initiatives.

“We are honored to be given this opportunity to provide programming and supportive social services to our students in this home that was originally owned by former slave owners,” Dr. Kiesel remarked.

The funding will address critical issues such as exterior and interior repairs, water damage, and mold remediation in the three-story frame building. This rehabilitation marks Phase I of an extensive project revitalizing the historic property acquired during its purchase of the former Wesley College in 2021.

The establishment of Hope House aligns with DSU’s broader Safe Space Coalition initiative, aimed at enhancing intervention and prevention services related to sexual assault and other safety concerns on campus. Led by Dr. Gwendolyn Scott Jones, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, this coalition works to assess and improve the university’s safety protocols, policies, and response services regarding sexual assaults, domestic violence, bullying, mental health, and more.