Tennessee State University is facing an urgent financial crisis as it prepares to launch its inaugural Division I men’s ice hockey program. As Meredith Turits revealed in Front Office Sports, immediate action is necessary to ensure the success of this groundbreaking initiative.
With the first season set to begin in 2025-2026, the Tigers are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting chapter in the university’s sports history. The introduction of the men’s ice hockey team represents a significant milestone for TSU.
In April, TSU appointed Dominique Abercrombie as the first Black male head coach in NCAA Division I hockey history. However, the university’s financial situation complicates preparations for the upcoming season. Budget mismanagement caused the financial emergency, which has left TSU ill-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.
Caught in the Middle
Recent reports have spotlighted alarming issues within the university’s finances, including structural deficits and chronic state underfunding exceeding $2.1 billion over the past 30 years. Additionally, there were mismanaged federal relief funds during the COVID-19 pandemic, deficiencies in scholarship offerings, a drop in enrollment, and outdated financial controls.
An NHL Industry Growth Fund feasibility study highlighted significant financial barriers to launching a new athletic program. In response, the Nashville Predators have offered their support, providing the Tigers with access to one of their Ford Ice Centers.
Currently, Coach Abercrombie’s salary is the only coaching position fully funded by the university. As the Tigers prepare to compete against teams in the Midwest and northern cities, the need for additional funding for lodging, logistics, and other operational costs becomes increasingly apparent.
With nearly $2.5 million already earmarked for initial investments, the university must act swiftly to establish a competitive men’s ice hockey team to secure the necessary sponsorship funding.
As TSU navigates these challenges, the success of its men’s ice hockey program could pave the way for a brighter financial future and further elevate the university’s status in collegiate athletics.
In an ambitious effort to promote health equity, Jackson State University has unveiled the Wellness on Wheels mobile lab. The cutting-edge initiative is designed to deliver vital health services directly to communities throughout Mississippi. The launch reflects the College of Health Sciences’ commitment to quality education, research, and service while preparing future leaders to address significant public health issues locally, nationally, and beyond.
Enhancing Education and Health
The Wellness on Wheels mobile lab aims to reduce health disparities in the state by providing essential services such as speech, language, hearing, and public health screenings straight to residents. By reaching out to children and adults across diverse regions, the initiative seeks to dismantle barriers to healthcare access and enhance opportunities for prevention, education, and intervention.
“The Wellness on Wheels Health, Hearing, and Communication mobile lab exemplifies our commitment to expanding our educational strategies, ensuring that we fulfill our mission of producing students who think critically, address societal problems, and compete effectively, said Associate Provost Dr. Brandi Newkirk-Turner. “It’s yet another way we empower JSU students to translate classroom knowledge into practical skills, equipping them to tackle real-world issues and make a meaningful impact in their communities.”
Providing Real World Experience
Dr. Newkirk-Turner acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Whitney Perkins, chair of the Department of Communicative Disorders, and Dr. Jennifer Wiles, an audiologist and program director, for their extensive planning and collaborative efforts in bringing the mobile lab project to fruition. They worked alongside Dr. Yalanda Barner in public health and Dr. Russell Bennett, interim dean of the College of Health.
Perkins highlighted the importance of experiential learning in enhancing students’ educational journeys. “Experiential learning bridges the gap between classroom concepts and real-world experiences,” she explained. “This makes the academic journey from learning to practice both meaningful and dynamic. Traditional learning still plays a vital role in academia. However, experiential learning is a high-impact practice that challenges students to think critically, apply knowledge, promote self-reflection, and ultimately, build confidence.” She emphasized the need for graduates equipped to tackle pressing health and societal challenges that will ultimately improve the quality of life for individuals and communities.
On Board the Wellness on Wheels Lab
The Wellness on Wheels mobile lab boasts a range of features that enhance its service delivery and educational capabilities, including:
– A soundproof audiological testing room with adjustable-height tables and chairs
– Additional seating and a one-way observation window
– Audio and video presentation capabilities
– Wi-Fi connectivity
– Internal cameras for clinical session observation and teaching
– External security cameras
– Dedicated consultation/testing areas for speech, language, and public health screenings
– A receptionist area for managing patient intake
– ADA accessibility with a wheelchair lift
– Running water, storage cabinets, and a small refrigerator
– An electric roll-up exterior awning for outdoor use
A Collaborative Project
The Wellness on Wheels mobile lab is made possible through a collaborative $5 million grant awarded to JSU and Mississippi College to enhance public health programming in the region.
A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Wellness on Wheels mobile lab is planned, alongside a grand opening for the Interdisciplinary Public Health Experiential Lab, another innovative teaching space funded through the same grant.
In a significant effort to enhance broadband access in underserved communities, Drake State Community and Technical College recently distributed Wi-Fi hotspots to families at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School in Huntsville, AL. This initiative is part of the college’s ongoing commitment to address digital connectivity challenges, supported by a grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s Connecting Minority Communities Pilot Program.
The distribution event highlighted the critical need for reliable internet access, which plays a vital role in educational success and community development. Many families in the Huntsville area struggle with obtaining consistent broadband, an essential resource in today’s digital landscape that affects students, professionals, and families alike. The initiative aims to help close the digital divide, providing increased access to online resources necessary for education, job opportunities, and overall community engagement.
Keeping the Community Connected
“Access to reliable internet is a necessity for success in education, especially for students and their families,” said Drake State President Dr. Patricia Sims. “By distributing these Wi-Fi hotspots, we are not just providing a service; we are empowering families to thrive in a digital society. At Drake State, we are committed to helping our community grow, and this initiative is just one way we are fulfilling that promise.”
The Wi-Fi hotspots are part of a broader initiative funded by the NTIA grant, designed to expand broadband access throughout Huntsville and its neighboring communities. Drake State and its partners are dedicated to bridging the connectivity gap for families who encounter challenges in accessing the internet from home.
“The ability to access the internet is essential for our students’ academic growth and their families’ ability to stay connected to important digital resources,” said Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary Principal Cheryl Askew. “By providing these Wi-Fi hotspots, we are giving our students the tools they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom. We’re excited to partner with Drake State on this initiative as we create new ways to support the students and families that we serve.”
Applications are now being accepted for the fourth annual Broadway Across America • Black Theatre Coalition Regional Apprenticeship program through October 18, 2024. This nationwide, educational paid apprenticeship takes place over 14 weeks in the spring of 2025 and is offered to applicants with a demonstrated passion to increase the involvement of those that have been historically underrepresented in American theater. The program showcases the inner workings of the commercial theater business and Broadway touring.
Black undergraduate juniors, seniors and recent grads are encouraged to apply at BroadwayFellows.com
This intensive educational program begins with 13 weeks of in-depth learning in one of the following Broadway Across America offices: New York City, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Cincinnati, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Louisville, Minneapolis, Ottawa, Salt Lake City, and Seattle, where Apprentices will learn about topics like presenting, ticketing, marketing strategy, operations, and more. To close out the semester, the apprentices will travel to New York City for a week of networking, on-the-job learning, and to see Broadway shows.
“Everyone at Broadway Across America and the John Gore Organizationis very happy to be launching applications for the fourth year of this program,” said John Gore Organization President Lauren Reid. “We have seen many brilliant early career professionals enter our industry after completing the apprenticeship, and we can’t wait to welcome a new cohort of Apprentices to the program. We are proud to partner with BTC to create more pathways for the future workforce of the theater community.”
“We’re excited to continue our partnership with Broadway Across America, offering opportunities that uplift underrepresented voices. Through our partnership with BAA, we’re building a more equitable industry,” said BTC T. Oliver Reid and Warren Adams co-founders. “This program provides crucial, hands-on experience for those usually left out of the conversation and helps ensure that the future of American theater reflects the diversity of its artists and audiences.”
The BAA•BTC Regional Apprenticeship works to equip participants with the tools necessary to be successful in the industry. It also provides a foundation of mentors and colleagues to whom they can turn to for support as they pursue a career beyond the stage. Past alumni of the BAA•BTC Regional Apprenticeship program have gone on to work at Tony Awards Productions, Foresight Theatrical, Daryl Roth Productions, Disney Yellow Shoes, Broadway Across America, and more.
“The BAA/BTC Regional Apprenticeship gave me the opportunity to be an insider in an industry that, under ordinary circumstances, had been just out of reach,” said Trey Robinson, communications coordinator for Broadway Across America. “This Apprenticeship has proven a pivotal moment in my professional journey, allowing me a front-row seat to witness and learn about the intricacies, challenges, and innovations that shape the theater industry.”
Students pursuing degrees in fields like arts administration, business administration, marketing, public relations/communications, theater studies, finance/accounting, human resources, pre-law, arts ticketing/sales/operations, and other fields of study that relate to commercial theater presenting are welcome in the program. A variety of perspectives, backgrounds, abilities, and opinions are very much encouraged to apply.
Interested applicants can find the application form and more information at: www.broadwayfellows.com.
BTC
BTC was founded by T. Oliver Reid and Warren Adams in the summer of 2019. They identified the disparity between the growing inclusivity onstage versus the almost non-existence of diverse professionals offstage. They invited their colleague, Reggie Van Lee, to join them as a co-founder in their march towards dismantling the systemically racist and biased ideology in the theatrical job space. BTC officially filed as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) in June of 2020. BTC provides emerging, mid-career, and career-changing diverse professionals opportunities to learn the theater-making process from leaders at the highest levels in executive, creative, producing, and administrative areas while developing a strong network for continued success and employment in the industry. For more information about BTC, visit their website, www.BlackTheatreCoalition.org where eligible candidates can explore and apply for current and upcoming positions.
BROADWAY ACROSS AMERICA
Broadway Across America is part of the John Gore Organization family of companies, which includes Broadway.com, The Broadway Channel, BroadwayBox.com, Group Sales Box Office, and Broadway Brands. Led by 22-time Tony-winning theater producer John Gore (owner & CEO), BAA is the foremost presenter of first-class touring productions in North America, operating in 48 markets with over 450,000 subscribers. Presentations include
Disney’s The Lion King, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, and Hamilton. Current productions include Romeo & Juliet, Hadestown, Hamilton, Hell’s Kitchen, MJ: The Musical, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, The Outsiders, and Stereophonic. BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com
JOHN GORE ORGANIZATION
The John Gore Organization is the leading presenter, distributor, and marketer of Broadway theater worldwide. Under the leadership of 22-time Tony-winning theater producer and owner John Gore, its family of companies includes Broadway Across America, Broadway.com, The Broadway Channel, BroadwayBox.com, Group Sales Box Office and Broadway Brands. The company presents shows in 48 cities across North America as well as on Broadway, Off-Broadway, London’s West End, Japan, and China. It has won Tony Awards in every producing category as well as numerous other Drama League, Drama Desk, and Olivier Awards. The John Gore Organization is committed to supporting theater access and education programs that introduce Broadway to the next generation of audiences and theater professionals. JohnGore.com
“[[W]hen people ask why you are fighting against your own school, when they try to tell you that you are wrong to protest [….], you have to tell them it’s because you love Howard University, because you love Black people… We fought too hard to let our Black institutions end up in the hands of people who oppose us.” – Sonia Sanchez to April Silver
A year ago, I was couch-hopping, trying to find housing after black mold took over my apartment and my car tires were stolen. It felt like everything was against me. Yet, I was thriving professionally, negotiating contracts and honing skills at my big boy agency job. Little did I know, these experiences were preparing me for a much bigger fight: representing myself against Howard University in a legal battle that started six years earlier.
In October 2023, I reached a historic settlement with Howard on a claim I brought to the DC Office of Human Rights in 2018. After a mental health crisis during my freshman year, the university forced me to withdraw instead of offering support, and ultimately refused to honor the withdrawal, failing me for the semester. With no legal representation, I fought and won the case because of a landmark mental health settlement at Yale University which was resolved and made public a month or so before the OHR’s probable cause determination in my case. The settlement allowed me to speak openly about my experience, and since then, I’ve connected with numerous students, alumni, and families who’ve faced similar struggles. It’s clear the challenges persist—Howard’s mental health policies are still inadequate. Most alarming is that there is not an undergraduate leave of absence policy for students who need time away for any reason. There has to be a better way!
What I learned most at Howard is to love
I start here to make one thing clear: I write only from a place of love. Howard stole my heart when I was 17, choosing her over full scholarships from other schools. Howard has a rich history, a legacy of activism, and a spirit of resilience that has also shaped me–which is to say, Howard has a lot to love. But love doesn’t mean silence. Love demands justice. And that’s what I want for Howard: to live up to its fullest potential; especially to the most vulnerable & marginalized.
My introduction to Howard’s love came through organizing with HUResist, a collective of students pushing the university to fulfill its promises to us. During that time, I first read Sonia Sanchez’s words, shared by April Silver: “You have to tell them it is because you love Howard University, because you love Black people.” Those words are etched in my Howard memory and remind me that love and accountability go hand in hand.
Howard now has an opportunity to lead by example. Howard can set a standard for how historically Black institutions handle mental health crises and adopt sweeping changes. But it will take more than this one settlement. We need comprehensive, accessible, and empathetic systems that prioritize student well-being.
As I reflect on World Mental Health Day, I think about how the systems designed to support me failed when I needed them most. Instead of care, I was met with police officers who handcuffed me and was committed to a psych unit that reeked of incarceration. Black people, like Sonya Massey, are too often criminalized for our distress when we should be offered compassion. This punitive response to mental health is a societal issue disproportionately affecting Black communities, but Howard can and must choose a different path.
Over the years, Howard has insisted that the problems I faced were from a bygone era of Howard administration. Evidenced by the fact that many of the officials who were involved with my case are no longer employed by the University, Howard maintains a public commitment to mental health while ignoring. Since going public with this experience, I have been contacted by several current students whose stories eerily mirror mine: withdrawals, police, and runaround when it should be care, compassion, and choice.
It’s time for Howard to embrace its legacy of activism and care by addressing student mental health in meaningful, structural ways.“Still, to this day, I have the deepest love for Howard. I love Howard and will forever love Howard,” said Ross. “That experience made me who I am. This fighter, activist, advocate, it’s literally because of the community I built at Howard. I am the student Howard says it wants and desires — you want students like me, the students who are self-advocates, empowered, and say the quiet things out loud, not taking mistreatment and injustice. These are Howard students.” – Durmerrick
In a pivotal moment for healthcare education in West Virginia, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) visited Bluefield State University to tour the progress of its new Medical Education Center. The facility is bolstered by $7.4 million in federal funding, which Capito played a crucial role in securing. This funding is part of a larger initiative to enhance the state’s healthcare infrastructure and educational resources.
During her visit, Senator Capito emphasized investing in medical education. “This new center at Bluefield State University will provide students with the tools and training they need to succeed in the medical field while also helping to alleviate the healthcare workforce shortages we are seeing across the state and the country,” Senator Capito said. “Investing in medical education is one of the most important steps we can take to ensure that West Virginians have access to high-quality healthcare.”
The senator met with university and city leaders, faculty, and students as they discussed how the Medical Education Center is set to play an essential role in addressing the increasing demand for healthcare services, especially in underserved rural communities. The center will feature advanced simulation labs, cutting-edge medical technology, and innovative classroom spaces that support comprehensive healthcare education.
Interim President Darrin Martin expressed gratitude for Senator Capito’s continued support, calling the investment “a game-changer” for the university and the communities it serves. He noted that the new facility will allow Bluefield State to expand its medical programs and offer hands-on training opportunities.
How The Project Started
The Medical Education Center was established following Bluefield State’s acquisition of the former Bluefield Regional Medical Center in December 2020, when the hospital ceased its inpatient and ancillary services. Since then, the university has committed nearly $5 million to modernizing the facility, including the addition of a new cafeteria and dormitories providing on-campus housing for the first time in over 50 years.
The first construction phase is nearing completion, with plans to begin classes in the spring semester. This phase includes state-of-the-art classrooms and a simulation facility for all allied health programs offered at BSU. Looking ahead, Phase II of the project aims to introduce a respiratory therapy program into the university’s expanding portfolio of allied health degrees.
Phase II is expected to commence in early 2025 and be completed in late summer. As the construction progresses, BSU continues to broaden its offerings, including existing programs in nursing, radiologic technology, and sonography.
In a significant move for Florida A&M University, Angela Suggs officially took office as vice president & director of athletics on Oct. 7. With over a decade of experience in the sports industry and a proven track record in leadership roles, Suggs is poised to lead FAMU’s athletic programs into a new era of success.
Suggs’ Proven Track Record
Before her appointment at FAMU, Suggs served as the president and CEO of the Florida Sports Foundation since 2017. There, she oversaw Florida’s robust $74 billion sports tourism industry. Her leadership was pivotal in securing and hosting sporting events throughout the state. Additionally, her role involved managing multi-million dollar grant programs that supported both amateur and professional.
Connected to FAMU
Suggs is not new to FAMU; she has held multiple leadership positions within the university’s athletics department, including senior associate athletics director for external affairs and senior woman administrator. During her tenure at FAMU, she was crucial in enhancing ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, and royalty revenues.
An alumna of FAMU, Suggs earned her bachelor’s degree in business economics from the university and holds a master’s degree in marriage & family therapy from St. Thomas University. She is well-regarded for her transformative leadership style, strategic communication skills, and ability to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
A Leader in Sports and the Community
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Suggs is actively engaged in numerous organizations, such as the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators and the National Association of Athletic Development Directors. Her involvement extends to various boards, including the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Foundation and the Florida Historic Capitol Museum. As a Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. member, Suggs exemplifies community engagement and leadership.
Angela Suggs is married to Davin J. Suggs, the deputy executive director of the Florida Association of Counties. Together, they have one daughter, Dillyn Ashleigh Suggs, who is making strides as a scholar-athlete at Campbell University.
As the vibrant homecoming festivities commence at Fort Valley State University, students and alums are excited for the football game and a moment of historic significance. Nya Floyd, the reigning Miss Fort Valley State University, has made headlines by capturing the title of Miss National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame 2024. Her win marks the first victory for the university in the pageant’s 39-year history.
Floyd competed against approximately a dozen other queens from historically black colleges and universities nationwide. Dressed in a blue jumpsuit and cape, Floyd’s three-minute speech focused on the importance of voting within the Black community. She concluded her presentation with a memorable signature line reminiscent of political campaign ads: “I am Nya Floyd. The 87th Miss Fort Valley State University… and I approve this message.”
Her victory comes hot on the heels of last year’s Queen, Anaya Arnold, who placed in the top five. “Our pageant coach, Mr. Rodney, was just like, ‘Okay, we were so close last year, we’ve got to bring it home,’ Floyd told WGXA News.
Despite her pageant triumph, Floyd emphasizes that the pageant experience extends beyond competition. Transitioning from a high school wrestler who competed against boys, she found camaraderie and support among her fellow contestants, whom she calls “sister queens.”
As the 87th Miss FVSU, her platform centers around “Game Plan: Graceful and Authentic Mentorship with Endless Support.” She advocates for the vital role mentorship plays in fostering success and leadership skills in future generations, which led her to an HBCU.
“I just think that mentorship plays a big part in our overall success. Especially for future generations, so we can mold them into the leaders that we need them to be in the future,” Floyd stated.
In a groundbreaking achievement, Trinitee Smith, a senior at Elizabeth City State University, has made history by becoming the university’s first social work student elected to the National Association of Social Workers – North Carolina Chapter board of directors. Smith will serve as the undergraduate student representative for the 2024-2025 term. She emerged victorious amidst fierce competition from social work students statewide.
Courtesy of Elizabeth City State University
Smith’s journey into social work was fueled by her lifelong dream of supporting children and advocating within the mental health and legal sectors.
Beyond personal achievement, Smith views her election as a significant milestone for representation. As a Black woman, she emphasizes the need for diversity in leadership roles within the field. “We deserve to be in those spaces, and we have every right to contribute and excel in them,” she stated.
Goals of the Young Leader
Driven by her commitment to advocate for communities often marginalized, Smith aspires to specialize in clinical social work. She wants to focus on children’s therapy while integrating her expertise into schools, nonprofit organizations, and community programs.
“I would also like to work alongside government to advocate for and implement policies that truly address the needs of marginalized communities,” Smith explained.
Applying for the NASW-NC board position was a step towards entering influential spaces early in her career. “I knew it was a challenge, but that’s what drives me. I like being in uncomfortable circumstances to see how I thrive,” she reflected.
At just 20 years old, Smith is poised to take on a leadership role among seasoned professionals. “While I may be younger than the other members of the board and just starting my career, I firmly believe that age is only a number. I’m confident in my ability to contribute effectively and capably,” she noted.
Kim Downing is a professor of social work and the director of the social work program at ECSU. She praised Smith’s skills and qualities and the impact she can make in her new NASW-NC role. “As a small HBCU, sometimes, our students are not always afforded the opportunity to demonstrate their level of brilliance and skills. But this position will allow Smith to showcase her knowledge and skills, proudly representing ECSU,” Downing shared. “One of the reasons Trinitee’s acceptance is so significant for our program and the broader student body is because such an achievement will convey to students, current and future, they too ‘belong’ in positions and spaces with leaders and decision-makers.”
In a powerful address to a packed lecture hall of over 150 students at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center on Thursday, Arndrea Waters King, wife of Martin Luther King III, emphasized the critical role that voting plays in shaping the future of our democracy. Her visit coincides with the upcoming November 5 election, where she urged students to understand the significance of their votes.
King’s Message To Bowie State Students
King drew on historical milestones, referencing the brutal attack on the Edmond Pettus Bridge, the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the sacrifices made by civil rights leaders such as Medgar Evers and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Everyone believes we have seen enough chaos in the country,” said King. “Students need to really understand how powerful they are and how critical they are to not only create a better world for all of us, but certainly make sure Dr. King’s dream of a beloved community becomes a reality.”
Bowie State University President Aminta Breaux expressed her gratitude for King’s presence at the event. “We’re both honored and privileged to have Arndrea Waters King attend an election event at the university,” Breaux remarked. “She carries the legacy of Dr. King we want students to know about.”
As the president of the Drum Major Institute, a non-profit social justice organization, King leads efforts to unite leaders and organizations in developing common-sense solutions to societal challenges. The DMI promotes action to foster peace, justice, and equity for all.
In preparation for the upcoming election, Bowie State has planned a series of voter registration and education initiatives to assist students in understanding the importance of exercising their right to vote. Notably, Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, Congressman Steny Hoyer, and Governor Wes Moore also participated in the event. They highlighted the historical context surrounding voting rights and civil rights in the United States, while encouraging students to register and make their voices heard at the polls.
West Virginia State University’s National ‘W’ Club is set to honor seven distinguished athletes at its upcoming Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The event will commence at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12, at the James C. Wilson University Union as part of the university’s Homecoming festivities.
The 2024 Hall of Fame inductees include Roy Brown, Tony Dwight Cornett, Jr., Christopher Dunn, Earl Monroe, Jason Moore, Ellis Spann, Jr., and Scott Swayne, each recognized for their outstanding contributions to WVSU athletics.
Roy Brown
Roy Brown made his mark on the Yellow Jackets football team after transferring from East Central Junior College in 1977. As a two-year starter at defensive end and middle linebacker, he averaged ten tackles and three sacks per game, leading the nation in quarterback sacks during his senior year. Brown played a crucial role in WVSU’s return to glory, helping secure a championship against Shepherd University by blocking a punt that sealed the victory.
Tony Dwight Cornett, Jr.
Tony Dwight Cornett, Jr. enjoyed a stellar basketball career as a four-year starter for the Yellow Jackets. He garnered numerous accolades, including Outstanding Freshman in the WVIAC and multiple selections to the All-Conference first and second teams. After graduating in 2007, his professional career took him to Iceland.
Christopher Dunn
Christopher Dunn also excelled on the basketball court, earning All-Freshman honors and the title of WVIAC Freshman of the Year. His standout performances made him the WVIAC tournament MVP in his senior year. He finished his career ranked among WVSU’s all-time leaders in assists, steals, and shooting percentage.
Earl Monroe
Earl Monroe, who served as head coach of the WVSU football and track teams, began as a part-time assistant in 1987 before becoming the full-time head coach. Under Monroe’s leadership, the Yellow Jackets saw significant success, including their first NCAA Division II national ranking and back-to-back winning seasons.
Jason Moore
Jason Moore, a former key Yellow Jackets baseball team player, was instrumental in clinching the WVIAC Championship in 1994. His talent earned him Player and Hitter of the Year honors in 1996, followed by a draft selection by the Arizona Diamondbacks. Moore returned to WVSU to complete his education after three years in professional baseball.
Ellis Spann, Jr.
Ellis Spann, Jr. showcased his versatility as a two-way football player and a standout on the track team. He remains known for his record-setting 102-yard interception return and conference championships in sprinting events.
Scott Swayne
Scott Swayne, a 1974 WVSU alumnus, devoted his career to teaching and coaching in Kanawha County. He has accumulated numerous championships across football, basketball, and track, including a remarkable undefeated season as a head basketball coach. Currently, he serves as an assistant coach at Nitro High School, where he has helped lead teams to state championships and semi-final appearances. In 2022, Swayne was inducted into the West Virginia Coaches Hall of Fame.
The induction ceremony will take place inside the James C. Wilson University Union. It is open to the public. Tickets are $15 and available at the door.
Get ready for three exciting experiences as Prime Video and HBCU Buzz team up to bring you exclusive screenings of the highly anticipated crime thriller series Cross. HBCU communities will have the unique opportunity to watch an episode of Cross before its official premiere on November 14. The screening events, set to take place in Atlanta, the DMV, and Chicago, will feature engaging Q&A sessions with special guests, including the talented Aldis Hodge (Atlanta & DC), giveaways, raffles, and more.
The first screening event kicks off in Atlanta on October 16 at Morehouse College’s Ray Charles Performing Arts Center (RAYPAC). Following Atlanta, Cross will screen at the Cramton Auditorium at Howard University on October 23 for the HBCU community in the DMV area. And finally, catch a screening of Cross in Chicago on October 30, at the ACX Harper Theater in Hyde Park.
Photo Courtesy: Prime Video
Event Highlights:
The exclusive screenings will include:
– An advance screening of episode one of Cross
– Engaging Q&A sessions with special guests
– Exciting activations and more
Space is limited, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spots. All neighboring HBCUs are invited to join in the events.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exclusive experience! Click here to register.
Exclusive Screening Dates:
– Atlanta, GA: Oct. 16, 2024, at 6 p.m.
Morehouse College, Ray Charles Performing Arts Center, 900 West End Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30310
– Washington, DC: Oct. 23, 2024, at 6 p.m.
Howard University, Cramton Auditorium, 2455 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20059
– Chicago, IL: Oct. 30, 2024, at 6 p.m.
ACX Harper Theater – Hyde Park, 5238 S Harper Ave., Chicago, IL, 60615
Based on James Patterson’s best-selling Alex Cross book series, Cross follows Detective Alex Cross as he confronts a sadistic serial killer leaving a trail of bodies throughout the city. As Cross and his partner delve deeper into the investigation, they face a threat from Cross’s past that risks unraveling his family and career. The series comprises eight episodes and will be available exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories worldwide. It has already been renewed for a second season even before its debut, highlighting the excitement surrounding this gripping narrative.
In addition to Aldis Hodge, who also serves as a producer, the cast features a remarkable lineup, including Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Alona Tal, Samantha Walkes, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd, Jennifer Wigmore, Eloise Mumford, and Ryan Eggold. Cross is produced by Amazon MGM Studios, Paramount Television Studios, and Skydance Television.
In a notable recognition of his contributions to scholarship and leadership, Dr. Ben Vinson III, president of Howard University, has been formally inducted into the prestigious American Academy of Arts & Sciences. This honor places him among an elite cohort of 250 new members. The Academy chooses members from diverse fields within five divisions: Mathematical and Physical Sciences; Biological Sciences; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Humanities and Arts; and Leadership, Policy, and Communications.
Joining the Academy’s Class of 2024
The 2024 class features an array of distinguished individuals, including New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie, renowned actor and producer George Clooney, and celebrated Olympian and philanthropist Grant Hill. President Vinson’s induction underscores his significant role in academia. This recognition extends Howard’s legacy of influence within the Academy, joining previous Bison inductees.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition from the American Academy of Arts & Sciences,” remarked President Vinson. “I look forward to engaging with such an esteemed group of thought leaders and visionaries in advancing scholarship that addresses some of the most complex issues facing our nation.”
Dr. Vinson became the 18th president of Howard University in September 2023. He is a renowned historian specializing in the African diaspora, particularly in Latin America. His acclaimed work, *Before Mestizaje: The Frontiers of Race and Caste in Colonial Mexico*, was awarded the 2019 Howard F. Cline Book Prize in Mexican History. Beyond his role at Howard University, he contributes to the Academy’s Commission on the Practice of Democratic Citizenship and chairs its subcommittee on higher education.
Fellowships from leading organizations, including the Fulbright Commission, National Humanities Center, Social Science Research Council, and the Ford, Rockefeller, and Mellon foundations have bolstered Vinson’s extensive academic journey.
Founded in 1780 by such luminaries as John Adams and John Hancock, the American Academy of Arts & Sciences has a storied mission: to celebrate the life of the mind and advance knowledge in the arts and sciences for the benefit of society. Throughout its history, the Academy has welcomed numerous influential figures, including Albert Einstein, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Madeleine Albright.
Entergy Charitable Foundation awarded Jackson State University a $2 million grant to establish the Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance cybersecurity within the energy sector. The school announced the news during a press conference on Monday, where Entergy Mississippi president and CEO Haley Fisackerly presented JSU President Marcus Thompson, Ph.D., with a ceremonial check. Local leaders, including Congressman Bennie Thompson who has long championed JSU’s initiatives, attended the event.
Fueling the Workforce
This new lab will serve as an innovation hub designed to train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. It will address the urgent need for skilled workers in nuclear, electric, and natural gas companies and electrical cooperatives. “I am honored to receive this generous grant on behalf of Jackson State University. This gift will have a lasting impact on the lives of our students and the future of the energy sector,” said Thompson.
Establishing the Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab marks a significant step in JSU’s commitment to workforce development and cybersecurity education. The facility will provide students with hands-on experience protecting critical power grid infrastructure from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Fisackerly emphasized the vital role of cybersecurity in today’s society, stating, “Electricity isn’t a luxury for most people; it’s a necessity. And so is thwarting cyber threats in the energy sector.”
The growing cybersecurity workforce gap is alarming. There is a deficit of approximately 3.4 million professionals globally and over 700,000 job openings in the U.S., according to (ISC)². In light of this crisis, JSU aims to enhance its cybersecurity curriculum and resources to better prepare graduates for careers in this field.
The investment also highlights the emerging threat landscape. Global cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. As the severity and frequency of cyberattacks increase, the collaboration between JSU and Entergy is a proactive measure to build robust defenses in the energy sector. Entergy chair and CEO Drew Marsh added, “Our partnership with Jackson State University is a testament to our commitment to creating opportunities for students and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.” Over the coming years, JSU will receive the grant in multiple installments, dedicated solely to developing the lab.
Edward Waters University has announced that it has been selected as the host institution for two NCAA Division II Championships. The school will welcome the 2027 NCAA II Women’s Volleyball Championship and the 2028 NCAA Division II Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships. In a notable collaboration, the University of North Florida will host the 2027 NCAA Division I Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field First Round Championships.
Making History In Jacksonville
This decision marks a historic milestone for Jacksonville, which will host these Division II collegiate tournaments for the first time. The city will make history by hosting three distinct championships within two years. EWU’s recent transition to NCAA Division II status has enabled Jacksonville to submit successful bids for these significant national events.
Dr. Ivana Rich is the vice president for intercollegiate athletics at EWU. She emphasized the significance of these championships for the university and the community.
“We are thrilled to serve as hosts for the 2027 NCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball Championship and the 2028 NCAA Division II Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships in collaboration with our partners at UN,” Dr. Rich stated. “This underscores our dedication to athletic excellence and positions Jacksonville as a dynamic sports hub. We look forward to welcoming athletes and fans nationwide to enjoy our outstanding facilities and warm hospitality. We truly value the collaboration with UNF and Visit Jacksonville to make this dream a reality. I take immense pride in representing the NCAA Division II membership on this stage and look forward to providing these student-athletes with a world-class experience.”
Hosting these prestigious championships is part of EWU’s broader strategy to solidify its status as a leader among Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Division II institutions. The university aims to enhance its visibility and reputation in academic and athletic arenas.
Livingstone College is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes alums and friends for its annual homecoming festivities, affectionately known as Stonecoming. This year’s celebration comes with a remarkable gift: an anonymous donor has generously contributed $1 million to aid ongoing campus improvement projects.
Livingstone College received an anonymous $10 million donation back in September. Courtesy of Livingstone College
“In 146 years of this institution, we have had unprecedented momentum. In the past 60 days, we’ve received more than $20M in philanthropic support, with our anonymous donor gifting the college another $1M donation,” said Dr. Anthony J. Davis, president and CEO of Livingstone College, in a YouTube announcement on Monday. “Every dime has been invested in the $50M ‘Miracle on Monroe Street Project,’ a comprehensive campaign that will refurbish five residence halls, including 90 beds, at our Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management facility.”
This significant donation is pivotal for Livingstone College, which has welcomed 441 freshmen and new students this year—the second-largest and most competitive enrollment in the college’s history. The incoming class boasts an impressive average GPA of 3.26. The college says this accomplishment positions it “as one of the top destinations for the country’s best and brightest students who wish to attend an HBCU.”
The festivities of Stonecoming are currently underway, running from Oct. 6th to 12th. This year’s events include a Praise Party and Gospel Jubilee featuring recording artist Tye Tribbett, a Fashion Show, and a Step Show. The week will culminate in Saturday’s game, where the Blue Bears will face off against the Broncos of Fayetteville State University. This will be followed by the Stonecoming 2024 The Experience concert, headlined by renowned artists Anthony Hamilton and BossMan Dlow, along with iconic Sugar Hill Gang performances.
