HBCU College of Nursing and Allied Health Receives $5M gift 

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In a significant gesture to foster education and improve community health, Our Lady of the Lake Health has pledged a $5 million donation to Southern University and A&M College’s College of Nursing and Allied Health. This generous contribution will support the university in expanding its educational offerings and resources for both students and faculty, while aligning with OLOL’s mission to advance healthcare outcomes and tackle pressing health disparities in the Baton Rouge area.

“This collaboration is an investment in the future of healthcare in our community,” stated Tina Schaffer, vice president and chief diversity officer of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System. “By supporting students at Southern University A&M College, we are building a stronger, healthier Baton Rouge and creating opportunities that will benefit generations to come.”

The funding will be directed towards establishing community health outreach initiatives driven by comprehensive local needs assessments. A collaborative effort spearheaded by the foundations of Our Lady of the Lake and the Southern University System aims to address social determinants affecting health in North Baton Rouge. This initiative intends to bring together local leaders, healthcare professionals, and academic experts to foster sustainable improvements in community health.

Changing Healthcare in Louisiana

“We are honored to create a community health partnership with Our Lady of the Lake Health,” remarked Sandra Brown, dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health. “This partnership will revolutionize how we provide healthcare to the citizens of Louisiana and will reinforce our commitment to educate a diverse nursing workforce to serve those most in need.”

The investment will enhance clinical training opportunities for Southern University students, particularly through optimized rotations in North Baton Rouge, allowing for hands-on experience. Additionally, the partnership will focus on evaluating and expanding allied health workforce development programs to better meet the needs of the community and industry.

Southern University’s nursing program stands out as a leader in the state, recognized as the largest producer of Black nurses in Louisiana and the foremost provider of Black male nurses nationally. The program extends its reach beyond campus boundaries through initiatives such as the Jag Mobile, which delivers free healthcare services and screenings to surrounding communities within a 50-mile radius. 

This new partnership is expected to catalyze positive change not only in healthcare education but also in the overall health landscape of the Greater Baton Rouge area. 

Dr. Darrin Martin Named 17th President of Bluefield State University

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Dr Darrin Martin

In a pivotal decision announced in a special meeting, the Bluefield State University Board of Governors has appointed Dr. Darrin Martin, Ed.D., as the university’s 17th president. This appointment comes after a thorough nationwide search for candidates, with the Board unanimously endorsing Dr. Martin for his visionary leadership and steadfast dedication to academic excellence and student success.

Charlie Cole, chair of the Board of Governors, expressed excitement about Dr. Martin’s appointment, saying, “While serving as Interim President, Dr. Martin has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing educational opportunities and building strong partnerships that benefit students, faculty, and the broader community. We are confident he will be an outstanding leader for Bluefield State.”

Martin Returns to His Alma Mater

Dr. Martin, a third-generation Bluefield State graduate, had served as interim president since November 2023. He shared his enthusiasm for the role: “I am deeply honored to lead this distinguished institution which has given so much opportunity to me and others. Bluefield State is uniquely positioned to expand opportunities for its students and strengthen its impact in the region. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and the community to build on the university’s successes.”

Growing up in Bluefield, West Virginia, Dr. Martin has deep personal ties to the university and the surrounding area. “Coming back to Bluefield State feels like returning home,” he remarked. “This university has meant so much to my family, and I’m honored to help lead it into the future.”

Dr. Martin previously served as a member of the Board of Governors and held key positions at Bluefield University, including dean of academic support and director of graduate education. His extensive background also includes working as a school improvement specialist for the West Virginia Department of Education and as a high school administrator in Tazewell County, Virginia.

An alumnus of Bluefield State College, Dr. Martin earned an A.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology and a B.S. in Mathematics Teacher Education before furthering his studies at Radford University and Virginia Tech, where he received his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

Dr. Martin resides in Bluefield, Virginia, with his wife, Dr. Serena Starcher, Superintendent of Raleigh County Schools, and their four children. He is an active elder at Westminster Presbyterian Church.

The university is planning an investiture ceremony in the near future to formally welcome Dr. Martin to his new role, providing an opportunity for the community to celebrate this significant leadership change. 

Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove Elected as Whip of the Congressional Black Caucus

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Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove

In a significant development for the 119th Congress, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, has been elected to serve as the Whip of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). This prestigious position places her at the forefront of the CBS. 

Expressing her gratitude for the appointment, Kamlager-Dove remarked, “I am deeply honored to be chosen to serve as Whip of the Congressional Black Caucus for the 119th Congress. Known as the ‘conscience of the Congress,’ the CBC is grounded in our pursuit of justice, equity, and opportunity for Black Americans. With unprecedented challenges ahead, our role as that conscience and our shared work will become more crucial than ever.”

Kamlager-Dove emphasized that her leadership as Whip will extend beyond merely counting votes. She aims to foster unity within the caucus, ensuring every member’s voice is heard and supported. “It is about building and sustaining cohesion within the CBC, uplifting every unique voice and perspective within our ranks, and ensuring that our members— both new and returning— have the resources they need to succeed,” she stated. 

The Congresswoman outlined her commitment to pressing issues such as voting rights, environmental justice, healthcare, and education. Partnering with the CBC executive board, she envisions innovative approaches to drive meaningful change on these vital topics.

A Lifelong Leader

With decades of experience in public service—including her tenure as a California State Senator—Kamlager-Dove is well-equipped for this role. She is currently a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, vice ranking member of the House Natural Resources Committee, and co-chair of the Congressional Brazil Caucus. She was initiated into the Gamma Lambda Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta at the University of Southern California in Spring 1994.

“As Whip, I will work tirelessly to ensure that our caucus remains strong, disciplined, and focused on delivering for those we represent,” Kamlager-Dove affirmed. “Together, let us not only carry forward our legacy but expand it— pushing forth our agenda and fortifying our role as a relentless force for fairness, progress, and the protection of Black communities.” 

Aarian Forman: From HBCU to Forbes’ 2025 30 Under 30 

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Aarian Forman

Aarian Forman, a distinguished graduate of Tennessee State University, has been recognized on Forbes’ highly esteemed 2025 30 Under 30 list. This honor celebrates his innovative contributions to education and leadership development through Xceleader, an organization he co-founded to empower students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the nation.

What began as a single virtual discussion in 2018 about enhancing student leadership at HBCUs has significantly influenced the educational landscape. Under Forman’s guidance, Xceleader has successfully impacted over 8,000 students and alumni by offering workshops, mentorship programs, and nonpartisan initiatives. The organization has also garnered close to $1 million in funding to bolster its efforts.

This recognition from Forbes isn’t just a personal honor—it’s a testament to the power of HBCU education and the unique impact we’re making,” Forman remarked. He holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business from TSU. “We’re creating pathways for students to build intergenerational wealth and close the racial wealth gap through entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and leadership development.”

Think. Work. Serve.

Forman’s impactful journey began at TSU, where he served as the president of the Student Government Association from 2016 to 2017. TSU showed me that higher education isn’t just about earning degrees—it’s about developing leaders who can create lasting change,” he noted. “The university’s motto of ‘Think. Work. Serve.’ continues to guide our mission at Xceleader.”

Former SGA President Aarian Forman during a TSU football game in the 2016-2017 academic school year.
Former SGA President Aarian Forman during a TSU football game in the 2016-2017 academic school year.

Working alongside co-founders Tevon Blair and Jade Agudosi, Forman has established Xceleader as a vital resource for student empowerment. The organization focuses on three primary areas: entrepreneurial guidance, civic engagement projects, and programs to uplift women. A recent initiative highlighted the organization’s forward-thinking approach, as five HBCU students were chosen to act as content creators for an upcoming conference in New Orleans, enabling them to gain practical entrepreneurial experience tailored to the contemporary digital landscape.

“HBCUs are national treasures,” Forman emphasized. “Their contributions to the American and global story continue to unfold in powerful and inspiring ways. Through Xceleader, we’re amplifying these contributions while creating new opportunities for the next generation of leaders.”

Through its extensive programs, Xceleader seeks to create enduring pathways to success and economic mobility within the HBCU community. 

HBCU Hosts Inaugural Edamame Picking Day to Promote Sustainable Agriculture

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Edamame Picking Day AT FSU

On Oct. 12-13, Fayetteville State University held its inaugural Edamame Field Picking Day at the Central Crop Research Station in Clayton, North Carolina. Supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation and the North Carolina Collaborative Seed Grant, the event drew over 40 participants eager to learn about sustainable agriculture and health-conscious food options.

Institutions such as the USDA-ARS Soybean and Nitrogen Fixation Research, Virginia State University, and North Carolina State University’s Central Crop Research Station collaborated with FSU on this initiative. The event was designed to educate attendees about the benefits of edible legumes like edamame and share ongoing research on nitrogen fixation, an essential process for improving soil health and crop sustainability.

Ganesh Bora, Ph.D., FSU’s associate vice chancellor for research and innovation, expressed the event’s intent to connect scientific concepts with the community. “We aim to bridge the gap between agricultural science and the public, sparking curiosity in sustainable food choices like edamame. This event serves as a welcoming introduction for those who wish to explore how science and technology contribute to producing healthy, environmentally friendly food alternatives,” he noted. Bora participated in the picking activities alongside his daughter.

Dr. Afua Arhin, dean of FSU’s College of Health, Science, and Technology, emphasized the learning opportunities presented by Edamame Picking Day. “One primary advantage of the event is its accessibility, aimed at introducing science and technology concepts to those who might not traditionally engage in STEM fields,” she remarked. “This interactive experience helped demystify scientific practices, making science both approachable and relevant, especially for those with an interest in healthy, sustainable food options.”

The Power of Collaboration

The event showcased the collaborative efforts among academic institutions and government organizations to raise awareness about agricultural science and promote the advantages of sustainable farming practices. Key experts, including Professor Guoliang Jiang from Virginia State University and representatives from USDA-ARS, contributed their insights during the event.

Students from FSU’s Department of Biological and Forensic Sciences—Rikki Locklear, Nathan Kipyego, and Faith Kipkosgei—expressed enthusiasm about how the event encourages dialogue around research and the importance of communicating agricultural science to the broader public. Keith Starke, superintendent of the Central Crops Research Station, added that such outreach initiatives are crucial in reinforcing sustainable farming practices and fostering community support for healthier food choices.

Jiazheng (John) Yuan, associate professor at FSU and event coordinator, described the Edamame Picking Day as more than just a harvesting activity. “It’s a comprehensive educational outreach initiative that promotes health, sustainability, and the value of agricultural science while strengthening connections between academic research, local communities, and the future of food security and environmental stewardship,” Yuan stated.

As FSU continues to expand its outreach efforts, events like the Edamame Picking Day serve as vital platforms for educating the public about agriculture’s role in health and environmental stewardship. 

HBCU Launches State’s First Genetic Counseling Master’s Program

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Xavier University of Louisiana is making history with the launch of its Master of Science in Genetic Counseling program, marking a significant milestone as the first accredited program of its kind in Louisiana. This initiative reinforces the university’s longstanding commitment to transforming healthcare practices.

Reynold Verret, president of Xavier University, emphasized the importance of this program in continuing the institution’s legacy of promoting diversity and equity within the healthcare sector. “This program is another way we stay true to our mission of creating a more just and humane society.,” said Verret.

The new Genetic Counseling program aims to train students in clinical skills and ethical practices emphasizing compassion and cultural sensitivity. Students will learn to guide families in understanding the implications of genetic conditions through a cutting-edge curriculum that integrates the latest advancements in genetic counseling techniques. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Genetic Counseling, this program aims to address health disparities by helping individuals and communities navigate their genetic health challenges.

Diversifying the Field

Alix D’Angelo, assistant program director and clinical assistant professor, highlighted the urgent need for diverse representation within the field. “There’s a minimal number of genetic counselors from minority populations to serve as clinical supervisors, program faculty, and leadership,” D’Angelo stated. “Being one of the only accredited genetic counseling programs at a historically Black college and university is meaningful.”

The program, which is supported by Myriad Genetics and collaborated with Ochsner Health, aims to enhance diversity within the genetic counseling profession while promoting equitable healthcare access across Louisiana. 

Dr. Leonardo Seoane, founding dean of the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership. “What we were missing in Louisiana is that we do not have a genetic counseling program. The [Ochsner Health] partnership with Xavier to start the first genetic counseling program in Louisiana is very exciting,” he said.

The Genetic Counseling program seeks to cultivate skilled professionals and empower students to advocate for underserved communities. The university aspires to equip future counselors with the tools to effectively support their patients in navigating complex health landscapes, ultimately improving health outcomes.

HBCU Launches New Scholarship Program for Future Educators

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West Virginia State University is excited to introduce a transformative scholarship program for its elementary education majors, thanks to the generous support of the John and Ruth McGee Foundation. Over the next five years, the foundation will provide $500,000, $100,000 each year, to support high-need students pursuing careers in public education.

Dr Kerri Steele is the College of Professional Studies dean at WVSU. She emphasized the profound impact this scholarship can have on students’ educational journeys. “The McGee Foundation Scholarship will be life-changing for the students who receive it,” she stated.

“Most of our students juggle their studies with the need to work, but as they advance in the program, this becomes more challenging. They face competency exams at key milestones, rigorous experiential learning requirements, and ultimately, full-time residency placement in their final year.  The McGee Foundation Scholarship is designed to provide increased support as students progress in their studies, freeing them from financial concerns so that they can focus fully on preparing to become the qualified, dedicated teachers our West Virginia children depend on.”

The scholarship is targeted specifically at high-need individuals from West Virginia. Scholarships will be allocated based on demonstrated financial need after all federal and state aid options have been exhausted. The funds can be utilized to cover tuition costs, praxis exam fees, and other necessary expenses related to obtaining an elementary education degree and teaching licensure.

Preference will be given to scholarship applicants who express a commitment to teaching in West Virginia upon graduation. The first round of scholarships will be awarded starting in the fall semester of 2025.

WVSU boasts a well-respected teacher education program that has been continuously accredited since 1963. In recent years, the university has successfully placed 51 graduates into public school teaching roles across 14 counties in West Virginia.

HBCU Joins Innovative Initiative to Revamp Biology Education

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Saint Augustine’s University is set to revolutionize its introductory biology education through participation in the Science Education Alliance program. The initiative aims to enrich students’ academic experience in the scientific disciplines. This transformative program will replace the traditional year-long biology laboratory curriculum with a hands-on research project, allowing students to engage in meaningful scientific exploration that culminates in potential presentations at academic meetings and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

The initiative is spearheaded by Dr. Sarah Straud, the biology program coordinator, alongside Dr. Tyrell Carr, associate dean of the School of Sciences, Mathematics, and Allied Health. 

“This opportunity expands the ability of Saint Augustine’s University to offer scholars cutting-edge and relevant experiences for competitive entry and matriculation in the scientific workforce, graduate school, and/or professional school centered on the life sciences,” said Dr. Carr. “In addition, this opportunity will strengthen and expand our program offerings in the biological and biomedical sciences as it relates to integrative and interdisciplinary science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM) education and research.”

The SEA program is an initiative of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, a prominent philanthropic organization dedicated to advancing biological research and fostering inclusive environments within the scientific community.

Central to this initiative is the SEA-PHAGES program, which involves student-led research aimed at isolating and characterizing new viruses that infect bacteria. Dr. Carr and Dr. Straud represented SAU at an informational meeting regarding the SEA program on Nov. 21, held at North Carolina Central University in Durham.

Changing Biology Education among the NC10

While SEA-PHAGES has been operational since 2008, the current phase focuses on ten historically Black colleges and universities in North Carolina, collectively referred to as NC10. 

The NC10 consortium includes N.C. Central University, Shaw University, Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina A&T University, Johnson C. Smith University, Fayetteville State University, Bennett College, Livingstone College, and Elizabeth City State University.

The program features several key experiences for participating students:

1. In the first phase, selected undergraduates from each NC10 institution will receive a stipend of $7,000 and housing for an eight-week summer research experience at North Carolina Central University in 2025.

2. The second phase, pending approval, would allow students trained in SEA-PHAGES to engage in a year-long research project at their home institution, supported by stipends and funding from HHMI.

3. The final experience, also tentative, offers students an additional eight-week summer research opportunity in 2026 within the laboratory of an HHMI Investigator, complete with financial support for both stipend and housing.

At SAU, Dr. Straud will incorporate the  SEA-PHAGES project into the BIOL 133L – Principles of Biology Part 1 Lab and BIOL 134L – Principles of Biology Part 2 ab courses, with implementation expected to start in Fall 2025. Dr. Straud will take on the role of faculty lead for this initiative and serve as a research mentor for the second phase alongside Dr. Carr.

Knoxville College Names New President in Bid to Regain Accreditation

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Rotesha Harris

Knoxville College has appointed Rotesha Harris as its new president. The college announced that under her leadership, its primary aim will be to restore its accreditation, which it has not held for over two decades.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the 32nd president of Knoxville College,” said Dr. Harris. “As we approach this historic milestone of 150 years, I am committed to ensuring that Knoxville College continues to be a beacon of opportunity and excellence. Together, we will strengthen our foundation and work diligently to regain accreditation, ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come.”

While specific details about Harris’s career have not been fully disclosed, she brings nearly 20 years of experience in higher education. Notably, her recent dissertation at Clark Atlanta University focused on the resilience of historically Black colleges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eric Barnes, the Knoxville College Board of Trustees chairman, expressed confidence in Harris’s capabilities. “We are thrilled to have Dr. Harris at the helm during this transformative time,” he stated. “Her unmatched skill set, dedication to academic excellence, and strong work ethic make her the perfect leader to usher Knoxville College into its next chapter of growth and achievement.”

Harris takes over after Leonard Adams, who was appointed as interim president in 2021 before transitioning to a formal presidential role in 2022, resigned in June. Since then, Harris has been serving as the interim president.

Leading the Way to Recovery

Knoxville College has faced significant financial difficulties, low enrollment, and deteriorating facilities. The college currently offers online classes to a limited number of students, and its once-bustling campus now stands largely vacant. Tragically, the college’s loss of Elnathan Hall, a key historic building, to fire on November 4 has compounded the institution’s challenges.

In recent years, Knoxville College has made steps towards revitalization, including applying for reaccreditation. The college’s leadership hopes that under Harris’s direction, it can recover from its past setbacks and emerge as a thriving educational institution for future generations. 

HBCU Aims to Alleviate Financial Struggles with 99-Year Lease

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In a significant move toward financial recovery, Saint Augustine’s University is prepared to make a deal to see part of its campus leased to Coral Gables-based 50 Plus 1 Sports for $70 million over 99 years.

Monti Valrie, principal and managing partner of 50 Plus 1 Sports, confirmed the agreement. “We are absolutely thrilled to come to Raleigh and partner with Saint Augustine’s University, local developers, and community leaders in this incredible city,” Valrie stated in a recent interview with the Charlotte Post. He emphasized the company’s dedication to cultivating projects that benefit local residents and enhance economic opportunities.

As outlined in the agreement, the lease terms include an initial payment of $60 million by Dec. 31 and an additional $10 million due by June 1, 2025. In addition to the lease revenue, 50 Plus 1 Sports will assist the university in negotiating settlements for its outstanding debts, which currently exceed $14 million. This includes over $9 million owed to the IRS, $2 million in student refunds, and $3 million to its former food service vendor, Aladdin Foods. 

A Financial Comeback

The partnership will also alleviate some of SAU’s pressing financial burdens. 50 Plus 1 Sports will take on half of the university’s high-interest loan obligations with Gothic Ventures, which recently saw SAU draw funds to cover missed employee payroll. Under the new agreement, 50 Plus 1 Sports will receive 65% of the revenue from the leased land for the first 15 years.

In recent months, SAU has taken drastic measures to address its fiscal challenges, including laying off staff and reducing its workforce by nearly 50%. Last month, the university cut 67 staff positions and 37 full-time faculty roles, among other adjustments. “These decisions are essential for safeguarding the future of St. Augustine’s University and the students we serve,” stated Hadley Evans Jr., vice-chairman of the Board of Trustees. 

The university’s struggles have not gone unnoticed by accreditation bodies. After multiple warnings regarding its financial state, SAU was initially removed from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges membership last December. However, following an appeal, the university regained its accredited status on probation. A follow-up evaluation is anticipated this month.

Despite these challenges, SAU continues to enjoy strong support from its alumni, with consistent giving patterns reflecting a committed network of graduates. Additionally, interest in enrollment remains robust, with over 700 applications already submitted for the fall 2025 semester.

HBCU Secures $500K to Combat Domestic Violence on Campus

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Winston-Salem State University has been awarded a substantial grant of $499,976 by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Violence Against Women, which will fund a new initiative designed to foster a safer and more supportive environment while addressing domestic violence and related issues in the community. The program, named RamsSafe—short for Rams Stop Abuse for Everyone—aims to tackle stalking, domestic violence, dating violence, and sexual assault through culturally sensitive strategies.

RamsSafe will facilitate collaboration among students, faculty, university administrators, and local community partners to create effective prevention and intervention methods against violence targeting women. Key community collaborators include the Winston-Salem Police Department, Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, and Family Services of Forsyth County, which will contribute guidance and input on both program oversight and content development.

Additionally, multiple offices within WSSU—including counseling services, Title IX, housing and residential life, and campus police—will work together to ensure that the program effectively reaches its intended audience. The initiative falls under the health and well-being sector of the Student Affairs Division.

Leading the Initiative

Candice Jackson, assistant vice chancellor of student affairs for health and well-being, is leading the charge. Jackson will oversee the program’s development along with a newly appointed program coordinator specializing in advocacy and assessment. She expressed enthusiasm about creating educational materials such as workshops, videos, and awareness campaigns to empower students and promote safety.

News Candice Jackson

“The primary inspiration stemmed from our commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of our students,” Jackson stated. “We recognize it is our collective community’s responsibility to help students be safe from domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. We saw an opportunity to provide our campus community with resources and upstander intervention training.”

Jackson further emphasized the importance of trauma-informed education and holistic support systems for students experiencing domestic violence and other forms of abuse. “I firmly believe that the Department of Justice’s investment in Winston-Salem State University will help us build and expand on the work we are doing to enhance trauma-informed education and our holistic care for our students navigating domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault,” she added.

HBCU and Middle School Break Ground on Outdoor Classroom

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Tates Creek Middle School in Lexington, Kentucky is enhancing its agricultural education program by constructing a new greenhouse. The facility’s groundbreaking ceremony was held on Dec. 3. This initiative is a collaboration between Kentucky State University and Fayette County Public Schools. It aims to create an innovative outdoor classroom that will serve both students and the local community.

The event celebrated the collective efforts of community partners dedicated to improving educational opportunities in agriculture. “This collaboration was truly led by the community, for the community, to enhance learning opportunities to students,” stated Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, President of KSU. He acknowledged the vital contributions of the Student Ag Ambassadors at Tates Creek Middle School, who helped shape the vision for this new educational space.

The greenhouse, designed not only for lectures but also for practical, hands-on training, will allow students to engage with modern agricultural practices directly. Attendees at the ceremony learned that students will explore essential topics such as hydroponics, aeroponics, and aquaponics. These innovative methods are becoming increasingly important in sustainable food production.

The project was made possible through a grant from Farm Credit Mid-America, which recognizes the need for a facility that combines classroom learning with real-world agricultural experiences. Students will receive comprehensive training covering everything from safe food handling post-harvest to the financial aspects of running a farm.

Dr. Demetrus Liggins, Superintendent of FCPS, emphasized the significance of teaching agricultural sustainability. “Teaching children the importance of agricultural sustainability is essential in today’s marketplace, and FCPS is committed to keeping our scholars on the leading edge of understanding the local, national, and global economic impact of this basic yet essential need,” he noted. “We look forward to this partnership with KSU and how it will help us guide learning and develop independence for our students into the future.”

HBCU Launches Tuition-Free Program for National Board Certification in Maryland

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National Board Certification For News

In an exciting development for educators in Maryland, Bowie State University has announced a new, tuition-free program for 75 teachers to earn their National Board Certification. Chosen from a competitive pool of nearly 500 applicants, these educators will engage in a comprehensive three-year process to enhance their teaching skills and improve student outcomes.

The initiative is spearheaded by Bowie State’s Center for Research and Mentoring for Black Male Students and Teachers in collaboration with the Center of Excellence for Educator Preparation and Innovation at Voorhees University. This partnership represents a significant effort to elevate the quality of education across Maryland, focusing on the importance of having certified teachers in classrooms.

Dr. Julius Davis is the founding executive director of Bowie State‘s Center. He emphasized the alignment of this initiative with a state initiative. “This partnership aligns directly with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future by elevating the teaching profession and ensuring all students have access to highly qualified educators, regardless of family income, race, or ethnicity,” Davis stated. He added that the program would enable students to benefit from rigorous curricula and viable pathways to college and careers.

Boosting the Number of Black Educators

A key aspect of the program is its focus on increasing the number of Black male teachers who achieve National Board Certification. By providing tailored resources and support, the initiative aims to encourage more minority educators to embark on this challenging certification journey.

Dr. Damara Hightower Mitchell, CEO of the EPI Center at Voorhees, noted that pursuing National Board Teaching Standards certification offers substantial benefits beyond professional and financial advancement. “I firmly believe perception informs pedagogy. This process facilitates the introspection required for transformative teaching and learning our students deserve,” she explained. 

With this innovative program, Bowie State University is taking a significant step towards fostering a more equitable education system in Maryland.

Savannah State University Appoints Tino Burgos as New Head Baseball Coach

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Burgos

Savannah State University Athletics has officially announced Florentino “Tino” Burgos as the new head coach of the Tigers’ baseball program. 

“Becoming the head baseball coach at Savannah State University is more than an opportunity; it’s a calling to lead, inspire, and elevate young men both on and off the field,” Burgos expressed in response to his new position. “Together, we will build a culture of excellence, resilience, and pride that represents the very best of Tiger Nation.”

Burgos brings extensive experience to the role. He served as Florida Memorial University’s head coach for eight seasons. During his tenure at FMU, he transformed the baseball program into one of the most successful in its history. His record there culminated in a run that included a Black College World Series championship in 2023 against Albany State.

SSU Director of Athletics Opio Mashariki shared his enthusiasm about hiring Burgos. “Our search for a new coach required us to do a deep dive to find someone who will continue the success of the program, and I am confident that we have found that person in Coach Burgos,” said Mashariki.

Burgos steps into his new role with the Tigers following a strong 2024 season. During this, the team achieved a 31-17 record and competed in the NCAA Division II Baseball Tournament.

Burgos has been recognized for his coaching prowess and for nurturing players’ academic journeys. In 2019, FMU achieved a No. 1 ranking in the Black College Nines National HBCU Baseball Poll. Burgos also earned the title of HBCU Coach of the Year.

A South Florida native, Burgos began his athletic career at Dade Christian School, where he earned all-state honors and recognition as one of the top high school players in Florida. He went on to excel at Seminole State College and Miami Dade College before finishing his collegiate career at Florida International University, contributing significantly to the Panthers’ success during his time there.

After 25 Years, HBCU Grad Claims Her Master’s Degree 

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Jay Morrow in cap and gown

Jay Morrow’s lifelong connection to North Carolina Central University has come full circle as she prepares to walk across the graduation stage on Dec. 13, 2024, completing a degree she earned but never formally claimed 25 years ago.

Morrow’s journey with NCCU began long before her enrollment. Her mother, a student at the university in 1968, frequently brought young Jay along to her night classes. “I was around seven or eight, sitting quietly on the floor, soaking in the environment,” Morrow recalled.

Morrow started her college education at Fayetteville State University, then transferred to NCCU, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in recreation administration in 1995. Encouraged by her academic advisor and inspired by NCCU’s nurturing atmosphere, she immediately pursued a master’s degree in the same field, concentrating on educational technology. With the support of a full scholarship, she dedicated three years to her studies, which laid the groundwork for her varied career in communication, technology, and management.

After graduating, Morrow boldly moved to Washington, D.C., marking a significant turning point in her life. “I was coming out of the closet,” she explained. “I dropped my life in North Carolina and went to D.C. to build a new one, where I could be out and live openly to be myself.” This decision allowed her to embrace her identity while thriving professionally.

In the capital, Morrow effectively employed her education, working as a systems tester, managing an indoor aquatic facility, and eventually serving as a web and digital manager and consultant at the University of the District of Columbia. The skills she honed at NCCU proved invaluable as she navigated diverse roles in her career.

Getting Her Master’s Degree

The COVID-19 pandemic sparked introspection for Morrow, prompting her to return to Durham and reconnect with her roots and family. In October 2023, she accepted a position as the web content manager at NCCU, marking a return to the institution that played such a pivotal role in her life.

Upon reviewing her transcripts for further studies, Morrow was surprised to discover that she had already met all the requirements for her master’s degree in recreation administration, having overlooked the final step of applying for graduation in 1999. 

Now poised to graduate officially, Morrow views this moment as a personal achievement and a powerful homecoming. “NCCU helped shape me in so many ways,” she stated. “To be back here now, working in a role that draws from everything I’ve learned and experienced, feels surreal. It’s a full-circle moment. My mother would be very proud.”

On December 13, Jay Morrow will finally receive the degree that symbolizes her journey and the foundational role that NCCU has played throughout her life.

HBCU Gets $2.2M to Launch Programs for Women Entrepreneurs and Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

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SBA at Morgan State University

The Small Business Administration has awarded Morgan State University’s Entrepreneurial Development and Assistance Center $2.2 million in a significant boost for entrepreneurship in marginalized communities. The funding will support two key outreach initiatives aimed at empowering women business owners and formerly incarcerated individuals as they navigate the complexities of the business world.

The allocation includes $1.5 million earmarked for the Returning Citizens Inspired to Develop Entrepreneurial Ventures program and $700,000 for the newly established Government Certifications Contracting and Matchmaking Solutions Center. These initiatives were funded through the FY24 Omnibus Spending Bill with strong backing from Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen.

RIDE Program: Empowering Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

Launched in 2020, the RIDE program focuses on helping individuals reintegrate into society after incarceration. With the new funding, RIDE will expand its operations by establishing the RIDE Entrepreneurship Resource Center. This center provides leadership training and entrepreneurial education tailored explicitly for recently released prisoners and long-term former inmates facing barriers to economic success.

The new services will include personalized business counseling, innovative programming, and even opportunities for participants to create podcasts.

By fostering entrepreneurship among these individuals, the RIDE program aims to enhance personal success and stimulate economic growth within underserved communities. The initiative seeks to break the cycles of poverty and incarceration, ultimately building a stronger, more resilient community.

Government Certifications Contracting and Matchmaking Solutions Center: Supporting Women Entrepreneurs

In addition to supporting formerly incarcerated individuals, EDAC will also focus on assisting women entrepreneurs, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, through its Government Certifications Contracting and Matchmaking Solutions Center. With $700,000 in financial backing, this center aims to address the stark underrepresentation of women—especially women of color—in government contracting markets.

Many women-owned businesses face significant challenges accessing government contracts due to a lack of information about the procurement process and limited support for navigating certification requirements. The center will implement a structured approach involving Training, Engagement, Advice, Administration, and Mentoring to tackle these issues. 

The center will offer clients crucial educational programs on securing government contracts, guidance on obtaining necessary certifications, and strategies for long-term business development. The goal is to alleviate the financial pressure often associated with hiring outside consultants to navigate complex application processes.

The launch of these programs marks a transformative moment for both Morgan State and the communities it serves, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic empowerment and sustainable development in Baltimore and beyond.