The HBCU Buzz Spotlight: Fuze The Mc

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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“The biggest thing that has changed since I got a good fan base together is the confidence in the decisions I make,” says Lance Coleman, better known by his stage name Fuze the Mc, “When there’s no one cheering you on, it’s easy to question whether you’re making the right choices or not and second guess yourself.”

The artist, digital strategist and producer spoke to the Buzz about what’s it like working with Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj, his newest work Boom Boom Clap, being verified on Social Media and Howard University.

Here’s our conversation…

Tommy: Fuze, what’s been up.

Fuze: What’s up?

Tommy: What has it been like since you won the HBCU Buzz 2012 Artist of the Year award?

Fuze: Man where do I start? So much to be honest. Been doing a lot of work with the Blueprint Group and Young Money on the digital side. Oh yeah, and trying to graduate from Howard. (LOL)

Tommy: Your raps inspires social change and explores issues in the black community. Why take the route less traveled?

Fuze: I mean really it’s not so much of active choice as a lot of people think it is. I don’t go into the booth and say “I’m going to make a record about social change”. I normally just listen to the music and talk about what comes to mind. I’m really hyper in tune with what’s going around me for better or worse. It just seems lately it has been a lot social issues arising in all communities—not just black. That’s where my head as been so it comes through my music…

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJWFkKbzwjU]

Tommy: Why Howard and not the “Real HU” Hampton, or Harvard University?

Fuze: Howard gave me a scholarship my freshman year so that was really the deciding factor but I didn’t even apply to Hampton or Harvard they never really interested me. I knew everyone in the music industry eventually steps foot on to Howard’s campus or knows someone who has. I wanted to be there when they got there.

Tommy: In your song ‘The Road Until’ you described how you found your calling. Can you tell us more?

Fuze: My calling is a little complicated but I think I’m here to lead people into better place than where they are.

Tommy: Really?

Fuze: It’s funny, as a kid I was pretty shy outside basketball so when I first realized I was meant to be a leader I kind of didn’t embrace it. Over the last year I’ve just came to grips with that and learning how to deal with what that entails. I just want to let people into where my mind is and let them pick it apart critique, disagree, agree, etc. and find out they’re truth and passion. Because I feel no matter what their opinions are on what I think, that critical thinking can be beneficial in shaping themselves and figuring out who they are. If I talk about my feelings towards institutions predisposing individuals to economic enslavement whether you agree or disagree at least you’re taking the time to form an opinion on that. To me that means something.

Tommy: You’re verified on Twitter… Are you something like a “celebrity” on The Yard?

Fuze: Well on the yard at Howard it’s not really an issue.

Tommy: —does it matter to have a fan base/supporters?

Fuze: I have a lot of fans on Howard’s campus, but everyone is doing something and no one really wants to have public displays of their affection for an artist or really anyone for that matter. It’s kind of frowned upon unfortunately. Maybe it’s the competitive nature I’m not sure. And it definitely matters. The biggest thing that has changed since I got a good fan base together is the confidence in the decisions I make. When there’s no one cheering you on, it’s easy to question whether you’re making the right choices or not and second guess yourself. When you have a fan base it’s like “Ok what do they think, Are they riding with it? Then that’s all that matters, let’s do it.”

WATCH: The Dream Defender’s #VestOrVote Ad Campaign

Posted by Robert Hoggard
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You maybe surprised to see this public-service ad campaign depicting African-American children in bullet proof vests. This social justice ad named “Vest or Vote” is a campaign organized by The Dream Defenders, a non-profit led by young African Americans, and calls the election of candidates wanting to repeal the state’s stand-your-ground law.

In an interview Ciara Taylor, a FAMU alumnus and the Political Director of the Dream Defenders, says the “Vest or Vote” campaign encourages more conversation on social issues. “The campaign is to engage in conversation with elected officials around issues in their community,” Taylor told HBCU Buzz in an interview.

“It’s about people being concerned about voting based on the candidate’s stance on each social issue rather than voting across political party lines. Our communities are attacked in many ways. #VestOrVote looks at the livelihood of Black and Brown people and the environment of Black and Brown communities. Without voting, people will keep their families in harms way,” she said.

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Chevrolet Supports Spelman College’s Clean Energy Efficiency Initiatives

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Spelman College
Spelman College

ATLANTA (October 17, 2014)— Spelman College has partnered with Chevrolet to build upon the College’s mission to achieve climate neutrality. As a result of the College’s sustainability initiatives, Spelman will sell the automaker carbon credits, which will net the institution up to $100,000. In recognition of the partnership, Spelman will host a presentation with Chevrolet on Oct. 22, Campus Sustainability Day.

Spelman is one of 12 colleges and universities to take part in Chevrolet’s campus energy efficiency campaign to reduce carbon emissions and the only women’s college, Georgia college and historically black college or university.

“Spelman has made significant progress in reducing our ecological footprint with the implementation of our Climate Action Plan and the integration of specific goals to achieve a ‘greener community’ into our Strategic Plan for 2017,” said Spelman College President Beverly Daniel Tatum, Ph.D. “We are excited about our partnership with Chevrolet as it is recognition of Spelman’s ongoing efforts to increase our stewardship of our natural resources.”

The College began measuring its baseline greenhouse emissions in 2009. With its Climate Action Plan, the College aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions 50 percent by 2031 (the College’s 150th anniversary) and 100 percent by 2056. The Climate Action Plan provides a framework for the College to advance sustainability in four ways: educational, campus emissions, carbon reduction strategies and community outreach efforts.

“We are halfway to our 2031 carbon emissions goal of a 50 percent reduction. The funds from the Chevrolet Campus Clean Energy Campaign will provide a jumpstart for further reducing our greenhouse gas inventory,” said Art Frazier, Spelman College director of facilities management and services.

Funds received from the sale of carbon credits to Chevrolet will be reinvested in campus energy efficient projects and technologies such as LED lighting and building retro commissioning to ensure Spelman buildings are energy efficient.

The agreement is part of a comprehensive voluntary carbon reduction initiative by Chevrolet launched in 2010 to prevent up to eight million metric tons of carbon emissions from entering the earth’s atmosphere. The company is investing in community-based carbon reduction projects across the country. To date, all investments have been made through the purchase of certified carbon credits, from institutions such as Spelman, reflecting Chevrolet’s desire to catalyze projects that represent a beyond business as usual commitment.  Chevrolet will buy and retire the credits, meaning they will not be used to offset emissions related to specific Chevrolet operations or products – or those at any other site.

“Our Chevrolet carbon-reduction initiative reflects our commitment to do more than just manufacture efficient vehicles in a responsible way,” said David Tulauskas, General Motors director of sustainability. “We want to support the ingenious efforts of colleges such as Spelman that are leading the clean-energy movement and engaging students along the way.”

Spelman has reduced carbon emissions campus-wide with a series of energy efficient/clean energy measures such as lighting retrofits in several campus buildings, parking decks and on exterior pole lights; renovation of Laura Spelman Hall, which earned LEED Gold certification in 2012; and central heating and cooling system upgrades.

Spelman students have also been engaged in aiding the College to go green. First-year students learn about the College’s sustainability legacy and current projects during student orientation. The conversation continues with a series of First-Year Experience Sustainability Convocations that focus on teaching students how to “practice sustainability as a way of life.” Sustainable Spelman interns promote campus sustainability issues by conducting workshop and commuter surveys, and managing the College’s sustainability social media portals.

The United States Green Building Council works closely with institutions like Spelman that have made the shift to green building efficiency and LEED certification.

“USGBC is proud to support Chevrolet in this groundbreaking program that provides funding to campuses for reducing their greenhouse gases,” said George Bandy, Jr., chair of the council. “We applaud Spelman College for their participation in this program and continuing to take a leadership role by making a choice to green their campus and change the world.”

Other colleges participating in the Chevrolet program include Ball State University, Grand Valley University, Southern Oregon University, the University of Illinois at Urban Champaign and Valencia College. Additional academic institutions will be announced Oct. 22.

Follow the sustainability conversation on Twitter at #SustainableSpelman and #CleanEnergyU.

About Spelman College
Founded in 1881, Spelman College is a highly selective, liberal arts college widely recognized as the global leader in the education of women of African descent.  Located in Atlanta, Ga., the College’s picturesque campus is home to 2,100 students.  Outstanding alumnae include Children’s Defense Fund Founder Marian Wright Edelman; Sam’s Club CEO Rosalind Brewer, Broadway Producer Alia Jones, Former Acting Surgeon General and Spelman’s first alumna President Audrey Forbes Manley, Harvard University Professor Evelynn Hammonds, Author Pearl Cleage, and Actress LaTanya Richardson Jackson.  For more information, visit www.spelman.edu.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.9 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Media Contacts:

Spelman College
Audrey Arthur
(404) 270-5892 office
aarthur3@spelman.edu
Twitter: @spelmanmedia

Chevrolet
Sharon Basel
GM Energy, Environment and Sustainability Communications
(313) 378-6647 office
sharon.basel@gm.com

Women Interactive Creative Technology Festival Returns to Spelman

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ATLANTA (October 27, 2014) — For the third straight year, the Women Interactive Creative Technology Festival will return to Spelman College. Co-presented by the Digital Moving Image Salon and Art of Genius Creative Technology Series, this daylong event will be held Saturday, Nov. 1, at 9 a.m., and is designed to empower and encourage women to become active participants in the tech and startup spaces but anyone is invited to attend. Free and open to the public, the event will be held in the Cosby Academic Center.

During the festival, college students, collegiate faculty and technology, media and creative professionals and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to interact with innovative technology by following the three pillars on which the festival is based: Interaction, Education and Inspiration. The theme of this year’s festival is “Change Your Perspective–Small but Mighty.” Keynotes, panels and presentations will center around the idea of how technology innovation, diversity inclusion, funding and programming can generate an impact on how women create, thrive and lead in the tech space. Festival sessions will deliver firsthand knowledge from some of technology’s top professionals in an intimate setting designed to enhance attendee engagement.

This year’s speakers include: Roshawnna Novellus of Novellus Financial; Jacqui Chew, principal, iFusion Marketing; Caroline Van Sickle, founder of Pretty in My Pocket;  Janelle Jolley, founder, Sidewalk District; and Yolanda A. Rankin, Ph.D., assistant professor, Department of Computer and Information Sciences. There will be workshops on women in startups, funding and video game design.

“The festival’s theme is all about encouraging people to change their perspective of what the technology industry looks like,” said Ashia Sims, co-founder and chief transmedia officer for Women Interactive. “Much of the press surrounding technology and startup spaces feature men. We want to show people that women are also doing great things in those areas by highlighting them at the festival.”

In keeping with the fast-paced nature of technology, the festival aims to: inspire the creation of creative projects using technology; increase the number of women of color in the field of technology; encourage the creative use of technology to solve community issues and social ills; and increase economic prosperity in underserved communities by creating tech professionals that reside in those communities.

“Often when we think about technology we think primarily about hardware, software or coding, but technology is much more than this,” said Ayoka Chenzira, Ph.D., division chair of Arts and Humanities,  filmmaker, interactive digital media artist and founding director of the Spelman College Digital Moving Image Salon. “It is a cultural practice that allows us to think and rethink our relationship to the world and with each other. The festival will show that women are involved in technology in many ways.”

During the festival, attendees will experience tech talks in the Inspiration Hall.

“We wanted to create an event that provided more than just information,” said Sabrina Harvey, founding curator of Women Interactive. “The festival will provide action-oriented tips and insights that our attendees can take and use once they leave Women Interactive.”

Women Interactive is targeted at tech enthusiasts, lifestyle agents, graphic artists, filmmakers, game and app developers, artists and curious explorers who are seeking ways to monetize their creativity and move beyond technological boundaries. Festival participants can expect to walk away with an expanded network, practical tips on funding, insight on best practices with game design, and tools and resources to run their business or startup. To register, visit: http://womeninteractive.net/tickets.

About Art of Genius Creative Technology Series
A creative technology series of art, entertainment, science, media and technology events and workshops geared toward women. The mission of the Art of Genius Creative Technology Series is to examine how women can create social responsibility in our society by using art, design, entertainment, science, technology and media as a creative platform to inspire, encourage and bring about social change. Current Art of Genius projects consist of a panel discussion series, Talkback, digital business and art book, Women 2 Watch and creative technology festival, Women Interactive.

About The Digital Moving Image Salon
The Digital Moving Image Salon (DMIS) began at Spelman College in the fall of 2004. Founded by award-winning filmmaker and interactive digital media artist, Ayoka Chenzira, Ph.D., DMIS is a mechanism through which the college encourages and supports the growing number of students interested in creating stories for digital media platforms. In 2012, DMIS was named Best Fine Arts Program by The Center for HBCU Media Advocacy. For more information, visit www.spelman.edu/dmis.

About Spelman College
Founded in 1881, Spelman College is a highly selective, liberal arts college widely recognized as the global leader in the education of women of African descent.  Located in Atlanta, Ga., the College’s picturesque campus is home to 2,100 students.  Outstanding alumnae include Children’s Defense Fund Founder Marian Wright Edelman; Sam’s Club CEO Rosalind Brewer, Broadway Producer Alia Jones, Former Acting Surgeon General and Spelman’s first alumna President Audrey Forbes Manley, Harvard University Professor Evelynn Hammonds, Author Pearl Cleage, and Actress LaTanya Richardson Jackson.  For more information, visit www.spelman.edu.

Media Contact:
Audrey Arthur
(404) 270-5892 office
aarthur3@spelman.edu
Twitter: @spelmanmedia

Xavier University’s $19.6 Million Dollar Grant Will Help Diversify the Future’s Biomedical Workforce

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Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically black college or university (HBCU) just received a $19.6 million dollar grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support the “thriving” biomedical programs Xavier students are offered, according to the University’s website.

With this grant–part of a $240 million investment–University officials says it can now triple the amount of its African Americans students continuing their education to receive Ph.D’s in life sciences.

“Xavier is already number one in the nation as the primary undergraduate source of African American Ph.D’s in the sciences,” President of Xavier University Dr. Norman Francis said. “Yet with this grant, we believe we can triple the number of African American life science Ph. D’s nationally by 10%. We are proud that NIH has named us one of the institutions that it believes can uniquely contribute to this important goal.”

Xavier says it will establish a national consortium to train, mentor and encourage students from under-served and under-resourced groups to enter into and stay in research careers.

Xavier currently ranks sixth overall on a per capita basis from Health and Human Services, and first among the 107 HBCUs (including Simmons College in Kentucky).

Toni Morrison’s Papers Will Go to Princeton? Not Howard.

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I respect the work Toni Morrison has done–line by line and page by page. Her work has influenced the nation in many ways, and if we were to explore and praise Morrison for every novel she has written we would have to write an entire series of books.

But I question Morrison’s recent decision to house her papers at Princeton University–a place where Morrison has taught for numerous years–instead of Howard University, the alma mater of Morrison and where she initially got her start at. I find it interesting that Morrison didn’t give her scholarship back to her “nurturing mother”.

(I believe that our nation’s HBCUs are under-supported by its graduates, graduates of Black colleges, in fact give back less than 6 percent to their respective alma maters. Do we trust a Eurocentric institution to preserve and reproduce your intellectual capital?)

“We’ve left much of our institutional memory at non-black institutions,” said Dr. Carr of Howard University, who says that the papers belong at Morrison’s alma mater is tied to a concern about the history of race and education in America.

“Quite frankly,” he said, “I think 100 years from now people will look back and realize that this is one more symptom of the deep cultural malaise we have in this country.”

For far too long, White America has found a way to miss-tell our story. Because of this it’s more important now than ever to unapologetically support our own Black institutions. Many people will say that our Black institutions don’t have superior leadership. However, I suggest that our institutions have great leadership, and should focus on the gigantic obstacles that our institutions have to overcome. Public White institutions do not need our support, they will thrive without.

If we are courageous enough to support our own institutions the sky is the limit for what they can continue to do across America.

Central State U. to Hold “Economic Impact” Briefing of its Land-Grant Status

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio will have a Breakfast Briefing on the “economic impact” of its recent land-grant status at the Dayton Arena Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 14. Guest speakers at the event include CSU President Cynthia Jackson-Hammond and Professor in the Biology department Dr. Cadance Lowell.

Now only the second land-grant university in the state of Ohio, Central State can get funded for agriculture research and construction work by the federal government. The historically black college or university (HBCU) also can team up with Ohio’s other land grant university, The Ohio State University and partner with the Ohio agriculture industry.

“Central State University designation as an 1890 land-grant university means increased opportunities for partnerships with Ohio’s agriculture industry,” said Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown, “and increased potential for its graduates to obtain jobs in Ohio’s leading industry.”

Al Sharpton Pushes to Help TSU Program Inducted Into the Basketball Hall of Fame

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The men’s basketball team (pictured) from TSU won their second NAIA championship in 1958. The team went on to win a unprecedented third straight championship in 1959.
The men’s basketball team (pictured) from TSU won their second NAIA championship in 1958. The team went on to win a unprecedented third straight championship in 1959.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – The Reverend Al Sharpton is widely known for taking up the fight on behalf of the underdog in his pursuit of justice and equality. Sharpton’s stance on an array of issues has taken him across the country and around the world.

Now, he is on his way to Tennessee State University. His cause, to have TSU’s 1957- 1959 Men’s Championship Basketball Team, the first-ever to win three national titles back-to back, inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Thursday night, Sharpton will be joined by University officials and staff, including President Glenda Glover, state and local officials, community leaders and stakeholders, as he presents his cause during a ceremony in Kean Hall on the TSU main campus beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Shortly before the ceremony, Sharpton will address the media during a press conference in the Athletics Lobby, also in Kean Hall, at 6:15 p.m.

Sharpton became friends with TSU alumnus Dr. Richard “Dick” Barnett, a member of all three teams, and was compelled by the achievements of Barnett and his teammates. They were the first in collegiate history to win three consecutive national championships, and the first historically black institution to win a title. Despite Texas Western, the team depicted in the movie “Glory Road,” being recognized as the first all-black starting five to win a college national title, TSU won their title nearly a decade earlier.

Both men believe it is time for the team to become a part of basketball history, and that the University is the perfect place to begin the campaign for the hall of fame. Sharpton will also address other current social issues.

In 1957, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament became the first tournament to have seeded teams, making it the first to have an upset. The unseeded TSU Tigers had four upsets in the tournament, with the most important victory being over Southeastern Oklahoma State in a 19-point blowout (92-73), thus winning the school’s first NAIA Championship. With the win, Tennessee State became the first historically black institution to win a collegiate basketball national championship.

The 1958 Men’s NAIA Division I Basketball Tournament saw defending champions Tennessee State return as the #3 seed. The team’s closest win came in the championship finals against the #1 seed and tourney favorite Western Illinois (85-73). With the win, the Tigers became only the third team to have back-to-back championships. That year, Coach John McLendon was selected “Coach of the Year,” while player Dick Barnett received the “Chuck Taylor Most Valuable Player Award.”

With back-to-back NAIA Championships, Tennessee State entered the 1959 Men’s Division 1 Basketball Tournament as the top seed. The team had an opportunity to accomplish a feat no other team had done, win a third consecutive title. TSU breezed through the tournament. The finals pitted the Tigers against #3 seed Pacific Lutheran University. Again, Tennessee State prevailed beating Pacific Lutheran 97-87 to capture the title. It was the first time any school had won three tournaments in a row. Barnett received his second “MVP Award.”

The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame recognized the team last spring during its annual ceremony. They were honored for Significant Historical Achievement. 

Barnett will appear with Sharpton during the ceremony in Kean Hall. The community event is free and open to the public.

5 Fayetteville State Students Awarded Scholarships by National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

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The Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Certificate program at Fayetteville State University (FSU) has awarded stipends to five students for fall 2014. The stipends are funded by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and are intended to recognize students who are performing well in the GEOINT Certificate program and to encourage them to continue their education and seek employment opportunities in the Intelligence Community. The stipends are made possible by a $432,000 grant FSU received in 2012 from grant by the NGA.

The recipients are:
•Courtney-Anderson-1 Courtney Anderson is a senior majoring in intelligence studies with a minor in geography. Anderson was born and raised in Greenville, SC. She is part of the FSU Army ROTC program and is currently in her fourth year. She will be commissioned in May of 2015. After graduation, she plans to serve in the US Army. In the future, Anderson wants to pursue a career in the intelligence community, specifically with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

•Brenda-Rosek-Michel Brenda Rosek-Michel has been in the Army National Guard since 2010. Her previous job in the National Guard was a Signal System Support Specialist and her primary duties included installing and troubleshooting the radios used in the military vehicles. Currently, her responsibilities have changed to inventorying sensitive items, such as weapons and communication systems. Additionally, she has been shadowing a Platoon Leader to gain some insight into becoming an Army officer. Rosek-Michel is has been studying Military Science for the past three years in the Army ROTC Program and plans on commissioning as an active duty military intelligence officer in May of 2015 when she graduates with a degree in geography and with the GEOINT Certificate.

• Nicholas-KennedyNicholas Kennedy is a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. After coming off of active duty, he decided to pursue a degree in computer science. He currently holds a 4.0 GPA and works as an independent contractor for the Naval Research Laboratory where his focus is integrating autonomous systems with GIS.
• Sam Ndiwe was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division for 10 years. As a non-commissioned officer, he served in both Iraq and Afghanistan. He was wounded in Iraq and later became part of the Wounded Warriors Program at Fort Bragg. After service, he wanted to attain a college degree. While seeking a degree in computer science, he has developed an interest in geospatial technologies. He hopes his educational journey will someday lead to advancement in technology that the world can use.

• Paul-Morehead-150x150A decorated combat veteran in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, Paul Morehead served six years active duty in the United States Army prior to enrolling at Fayetteville State University in spring 2013. Currently in his senior year, he is completing the Geospatial Intelligence Certificate along with a dual history and geography major as a two-time recipient of the Chancellor’s List Award for Fall 2013 and Spring 2014. In addition to his scholarly achievements, Morehead continues to be extremely active within the Fayetteville and Fort Bragg communities through various ongoing community service projects and organizational efforts. Along with other clubs and organizations, one of his most recent community service initiatives involved working closely with Veteran’s Empowerment of Fayetteville North Carolina. Through his participation, Morehead along with many others were able to help feed the homeless Veterans of Cumberland County and surrounding areas.

FSU is a constituent institution of The University of North Carolina and the second-oldest public institution of higher education in the state. FSU offers nearly 60 degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. With nearly 5,000 students, Fayetteville State University is among the most diverse institutions in the nation.

For more information, call (910) 672-1474.

5 Things You Need to Know Wednesday in the HBCU Community

Posted by Tommy G. Meade Jr.
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1. A “reversal of a generations-long injustice”

Central State University, the only public historically black college or university (HBCU) in the state of Ohio, recently achieved land-grant status—allowing the University to apply for federal agriculture research funds and for construction funds.

2. Wilberforce gets new president

The nation’s oldest private HBCU has named Algeania Warren Freeman as its new president. Wilberforce University, the sister college of neighboring Central State University, hopes Freeman will be the “force of change” the Black college needs as it struggles with low enrollment and deficits.

3. Nearly $2.5M raised at B-CU Awards Gala

Some 500 guests were in attendance at the annual Mary McLeod Bethune Awards Gala at Bethune-Cookman, and six awardees who have contributed to the livelihood of the community and the University were honored. B-CU raised nearly $2.5M for the university.

4. Frank Pogue named Cheyney U. Interim President

Former Grambling State University president Dr. Frank Pogue was recently named Interim President of Cheyney University by the Board of Governors of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. Pogue, who retired from his duties at Grambling in June, will arrive on campus as soon as Nov. 3.

Cheyney University is widely known as America’s oldest historically Black institution of higher education.

5. Hampton awarded grant to study treatment for select pathogens

Hampton University’s Department of Biological Sciences will develop vascular protection against select pathogens after receiving a $900,000 grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

Bonus: Alabama State’s Defensive End Edward Mosley among nation’s best student-athletes.

Campus News: Top 5 HBCU Homecomings 2014

Robert K Hoggard, New Executive at HBCU Buzz

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEHBCU-Buzz-Logo

Contact: Brittany Ireland
Phone: (202)438-4093
Email: ireland@hbcubuzz.com

New Executive at HBCU Buzz

WASHINTON, D.C. October 21, 2014—The Board of Directors at HBCU Buzz Inc. is pleased to announce that Robert Hoggard has been named Vice President of Content. Robert will be responsible for managing our national team of writers and all materials produced on the site as well as leading the organization into its next phase.

This young man is committed to the HBCU and minority community. Beginning October 31, Robert Hoggard, native of Middleton, Connecticut and graduate of the newest HBCU, American Baptist College, will officially enter his new role.

“This position aligns me for my long term goals and adds to my purpose.” says Hoggard

The 22-year-old is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Kairos Studies at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. Upon completion, Robert plans to enter the Executive Doctorate Ed.D program at the University of Pennsylvania. Not stopping here, Robert has his eye on presiding over an HBCU and he is aligning himself appropriately. Outside of the classroom and boardroom, Robert is Youth Pastor at First Baptist Church of Rochester and enjoys community service.

President Brittany Ireland said, “It is humbling to have Robert as part of the team. Anyone can do the work we do, but it is rare to cross paths with those who have passion like Robert’s.”

As HBCU Buzz Inc. marks its 4th school year, the organization is proud to announce this transition in leadership. The team at HBCU Buzz is a family and we are happy to have one of our own fill this executive role. Robert has risen from a part-time writer to the executive board because of his contribution, skill, vision, and dedication and we look forward to having him in his new capacity.

NIH grant Awarded to Hampton University to Study Treatment for Infectious Diseases

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Dr. Chan in Zebrafish lab
Dr. Chan in Zebrafish lab

The Hampton University Department of Biological Sciences has been awarded a $900,000 grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to develop vascular protection against select pathogens.  

Under the leadership of HU associate professor, Dr. Joanne Chan, the goal of this grant to develop new, safe and effective treatments for several infectious diseases. This initiative seeks to stimulate innovation in the discovery of pathogens, including those that can be used as bioterror weapons.       

“I hypothesized that a number of pathogens target the cells lining our blood vessels, as an important site of attack,” said Chan.  “Therefore, I proposed that by improving blood vessel integrity and vascular resilience, an infected host may be able to survive a pathogen attack when a vascular integrity drug is used in combination with antibiotics or immunotherapies.”     

In the initial phase of this grant Chan was able to a support her theory using the zebrafish vascular a model of pathogen entry developed in her lab. Using this model, Chan and colleagues have published major reports to demonstrate that distinct pathogens generate unique effects on the vascular lining that can be blocked using specific inhibitors.    

“For these reasons, the NIH decided to fund the R33 phase of this project at the level of $900K over the next 3 years,” said Chan. “This will allow my lab to launch a number of chemical library screens and identify potential therapeutic compounds.  As a side benefit, the chemicals identified in my screen may also have specific functions in regulation of vascular function. These chemical drugs may also have additional usefulness in the treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes,all affecting the normal function of the blood vessels.”

Chan received her Ph.D. in molecular biology from the University of Toronto in 1995 and completed her postdoctoral training at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. She was recruited to the Boston Children’s Hospital and become an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School since 2004. She has recently joined HU to contribute to developing medically relevant translational research. Chan has been won multiple honors and prizes. She has also served as the Principal Investigator for 12 separate research projects, and has received millions of dollars in research funding from the NIH, DOD, pharmaceutical companies and foundations. 

Award Gala Raised Bethune-Cookman $2.53M

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galaOctober 14, 2014 – Daytona Beach, Florida – Bethune-Cookman University hosted nearly 500 guests at its annual Mary McLeod Bethune Awards Gala on Tonight at the Daytona International Speedway 500 Club (1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114).  The annual affair honored six awardees who have contributed to the livelihood of the community and the University.  In addition to the awards, B-CU raised nearly $2.5M for the university, including a surprise student donation of $1M.

Betty Jane France and Lesa Kennedy France received the Mary McLeod Bethune Leadership Award.  Betty Jane France, who is the widow of Nascar founder Bill France, is chairperson of the Nascar Foundation. Lesa Kennedy France, Bill France’s daughter, is the chief executive officer of International Speedway Corporation.

John and Lee Bryan received the Mary McLeod Bethune Philanthropy award. Lee Bryan, an alumna of Bethune-Cookman University, also served as a member of the Board of Trustees. The Bryans are longtime supporters of university programs and sponsor several scholarships.

Gloria A. Carr received the Mary McLeod Bethune Beacon of Light award. Carr, an alumna of B-CU, is a partner with the law firm Dean, Ringers, Morgan and Lawton. She focuses her practice on employment law, governmental entity defense, insurance disputes and civil rights law, among other areas.

In addition, there was a presentation of the Mary McLeod Bethune Living Legend award to Albert Bethune Jr., the grandson of Mrs. Bethune. The former faculty and staff under Mrs. Bethune was on attendance.

The awards gala was instituted by B-CU President Dr. Edison O. Jackson in 2013, during his inauguration. “We wanted a way to recognize people associated with the university and with the community who really make a difference,” Jackson said.

View the Mary McLeod Bethune Awards Gala Photo Gallery.

For more information, please contact Keisha Pickett-keisha@pickettpr.com.

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Beverly JamesDirector of COmmunicationsjamesb@cookman.eduPH: 386-481-2991
FX: 386-481-2973

 

Alabama State’s Senior, Edward Mosley Among the Nation’s Best Athletes

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13905841-mmmainDefensive End Edward Mosley values education and does a great job on the field recording sacks. He has recorded a total of 4 sacks and 19 tackles so far this season, and has been named one of the 167 finalists for the 2014 William V Campbell Trophy.

The Campbell trophy is presented to the nation’s top football scholar athlete in the country. This prestigious award has been won by the likes of Peyton Manning and Tim Tebow in the past.

According to the Montgomery Advertiser, Mosley is the only player from an historically black college or university (HBCU) program that has been named a finalist.

The award will be presented to 16 finalists on October 30th and includes an $18,000 scholarship towards an education after the season. The winner of the award will receive the trophy on December 9th at the 57th National Football Foundation annual awards dinner at New York City’s Waldorf Astoria.

“It is a tremendous honor. Before this year, I didn’t know that much about it but now that I was nominated for it and see how it is to even make it where I am, I realize it’s a tremendous accomplishment,” Mosley told the Montgomery Advertiser.

“I’m just glad all the work I’ve put in on and off the field is being recognized,” he said.

Alabama State’s Head Football Coach Reggie Barlow: “The kid comes here as a walk on, on academic scholarship, and really made his way. He’s worked with pure grit, found a way to be a starter for us and he’s an explosive guy. A lot of scouts that have been here have asked about him. He’s a guy that can give you 10 sacks or more in a season. He leads by example and he gets it. When you see him, he’s going to be dressed up a couple times a week going to class. He’s going to be a very successful man.”

 

Posted by Robert Hoggard Posted on 231 articles

Dr. Phillips to Lead UDC’s Community College

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Dianna PhillipsWashington, DC – Dr. Elaine Crider, chairperson of the University of the District of Columbia Board of Trustees, has announced the appointment of Dr. Dianna G. Phillips as the new Chief Executive Officer of the University’s Community College, effective November 17th.   Currently, Phillips serves as the Executive Vice President for Educational Services at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, New Jersey.  She replaces interim UDC Community College CEO, Dr. Calvin Woodland, who has led the school since August, 2012.

In making the announcement, Crider said that Dr. Phillips comes highly recommended with experience and credentials that are compatible with provisions of the University’s Vision 2020 strategic plan. She expressed confidence in the Board’s unanimous choice of Phillips to move the College forward.

“Under Dr. Woodland’s guidance, we’ve not only stayed the course, but have also forged an innovative plan to create a student-centered learning environment for the future,” she said.  “As we evaluated Dr. Phillips’ professional experience, it seemed apparent that she is ideally prepared to lead the Community College through implementation of Vision 2020 and beyond. Her resume is very impressive.”

At Brookdale, Phillips is the College’s second-in-command with responsibility over both academics and student services. There, she has worked closely with the deans, faculty and staff to create a five-year operational plan, which serves as the strategic framework for that College’s Educational Services Division.  She’s also been actively involved with recruitment, international education and laying the foundation for the implementation of new technologies at Brookdale, which serves a population of more than 14,000 students.

“Being selected to lead the UDC Community College is a phenomenal opportunity,” she says.  “I am profoundly honored and excited to be part of an institution that enables me to build upon my life’s work in promoting and supporting student success. I look forward to working with Dr. Lyons and his team in developing a comprehensive community college that prioritizes student needs and is grounded in preparation, exploration and service.”

Prior to her position at Brookdale, Dr. Phillips served as Dean of Technical Education at Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York, where she increased student enrollment by 35% and elevated participation in Dual Credit courses with regional high schools. During her tenure, the school’s Technical Education Division was awarded nearly $4.2M in competitive grant funding and she garnered approximately $320K in new scholarships for students.

Interim UDC President, Dr. James Lyons describes Phillips as a passionate educator and thoughtful administrator who understands what it takes to create a learning environment that fosters career-ready individuals.  Lyons says the University of the District of Columbia is fortunate to have such a talented professional.

“Dr. Phillips’ leadership qualities and broad experiences in academics, student services and workforce development will strengthen the University’s investment in educational programs and experiential learning opportunities that better prepare our graduates for the 21st century,” says Lyons. “Her proven track record is one that UDC can replicate and build upon as we move the Community College, our students, and the residents of the District of Columbia toward the future.”

Dr. Phillips earned a Ph.D. from the State University of New York at Buffalo, NY, in Social Foundation of Education with an emphasis on Higher Education Administration. She holds a M.S. from Buffalo State College; a B.B.A. from National University, San Diego, CA and an A.G.S. from Chaminade University, Honolulu, Hawaii. Additionally, Dr. Phillips is permanently certified as a School Business Administrator in New York State. Dr. Phillips served as Communications Specialist in the United States Navy on active duty for 14 years and was honorably discharged in 1990. She achieved the rank of Petty Officer First Class; held a top secret security clearance, and was awarded several medals and letters of commendation.

NCAT Student, 19-Year-Old Dorian Edwards Killed in a Party Shooting

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UnknownA 19-year-old Atlanta resident and student at North Carolina A&T State University, was shot and killed at a party early Sunday morning.

Dorian Tawan Edwards was killed during a fight among several individuals at the party in the 1400 block of Perkins Street in Greensboro, N.C., Greensboro police spokesman Lt. D. J. Davis said in an emailed statement.

A&T tweeted that Edwards was a freshman at the university, majoring in chemical engineering.

“#NCAT is sad to announce the death of Dorian Edwards (@RampageEdwards), 19, who died this morning. He was a freshman chem. engineering…,” the tweet said.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 336-373-1000.