Billboard Names Howard and Tennessee State As Top Music Business Schools

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In recognition of their innovative approaches to music education, Howard University and Tennessee State University have been named among the top music business schools in Billboard’s 2024 report. 

Howard University’s Warner Music/Blavatnik Center for Music Business

Blavatnik Music Business Center fellow Aisha June sings mid-performance.

For the third consecutive year, Howard University’s Warner Music/Blavatnik Center for Music Business has garnered praise for its unique curriculum that blends traditional music business education with important social justice initiatives. The center aims to mold the next generation of music industry leaders through immersive fellowship programs and specialized courses.

“This recognition is a testament to the work we are doing here at The Mecca. We take great pride in pouring into our students to educate, empower, and excite the next generation of music business icons,” said Jasmine Young, director of the center and Howard alumna. “It underscores our commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment that prepares the next generation of music industry leaders, and it’s a testament to the unique opportunities we create for our community at Howard University.”

Billboard editors highlighted the center’s Social Justice in the Music Industry for Leaders certification, which prepares students for leadership roles while emphasizing equity in the industry.

Each semester, the Warner Music/Blavatnik Center hosts a Music Executive Lecture Series featuring influential figures from the music industry. This year’s artist-in-residence is DMV rapper Noochie, while Roc Nation executive Lenny S. serves as the executive-in-residence. Notable guest speakers such as R&B artist Lucky Daye and renowned songwriter Jason “Poo Bear” Boyd have also visited, sharing invaluable insights from their careers.

Tennessee State University’s Commercial Music Program

On the other hand, Tennessee State University stands out for its strategic location in Nashville, often regarded as the heart of the music industry. Led by faculty who maintain active roles in the music scene, 

TSU’s Commercial Music Program offers students unparalleled access to industry expertise and networking opportunities.

Billboard highlighted the program’s intimate faculty-to-student ratio and campus visits from industry representatives like Sweetwater’s senior director of recruitment, Jordan Applegate, exemplify the university’s commitment to connecting students with potential career pathways.

TSU’s curriculum emphasizes critical areas of the music business, including intellectual property rights, contracts, and revenue streams such as publishing and touring. 

Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame Welcomes Two New Inductees from HBCU

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Lt. Col. Michael Hales receives his induction into the Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame from LeSans Alexander, Chair of that organization’s Board of Trustees. Lt. Col. Hales was recognized from his 25-year career as a U.S. Army aviator and for his seven years as the Director of the DSU Aviation Program.

The Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame celebrated the induction of two notable figures from Delaware State University during its banquet on Oct. 27. Lt. Col. Michael Hales, a distinguished military aviator, and director of the DSU Aviation Program, joined the late Dr. Luna I. Mishoe, former DSU president, who was honored posthumously for his contributions as a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen.

Lt. Col. Michael Hales

Lt. Col. Hales was recognized for his impressive 25-year career in the U.S. Army, during which he served as a combat pilot across five deployments. Hales held key positions, including aviation advisor and director of the Iraqi Flight School. His leadership and vision have been pivotal in transforming the DSU Aviation Program. Under his guidance over the past seven years, the program has seen its student enrollment triple from 57 to 163. 

In addition to significantly increasing enrollment, Hales spearheaded the acquisition of 15 new aircraft and the establishment of a helicopter flight training program in collaboration with the U.S. Army ROTC. His fundraising efforts generated $4 million for the program, and he played a crucial role in obtaining FAA self-examining authority for four of six certifications/ratings, saving students over $6,000 each in Designated Pilot Examination fees. 

The Late Dr. Luna I. Mishoe

Dr. Wilma Mishoe and her sister, Rev. Rita Paige, accepted a plaque and medal for their late father, Dr. Luna I. Mishoe, whose significant contributions to aviation were long overlooked. A First Lieutenant and photographic intelligence and communications officer during World War II, Dr. Mishoe served as part of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen, a fact that remained unknown until an independent researcher uncovered his connection to the prestigious group. Following confirmation from the national office of the Tuskegee Airmen, Dr. Mishoe’s family received a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal.

Dr. Mishoe’s legacy extends beyond his military accomplishments. He served as the president of then-Delaware State College for 27 years, from 1960 to 1987, before passing away in 1989. 

The Delaware Aviation Hall of Fame, established in 2000, has inducted 126 individuals. Lt. Col. Hales and Dr. Mishoe marked the sixth and seventh African Americans to receive this honor. Past inductees connected to DSU include the late Dr. Daniel E. Coons, the founding director of the DSU Aviation Program, and Hans Reigle, a former instructor and assistant director.

NCCU Pioneering Drug Discovery for Rare Breast Cancers

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At North Carolina Central University’s Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise, a dedicated team of researchers is making significant strides in drug discovery for two rare and aggressive forms of breast cancer. This innovative work seeks to enhance treatment options where conventional therapies often fall short.

Breast cancer impacts one in eight women in the United States. There is a diverse range of types and treatments available, including chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy. However, standard chemotherapy can be harsh, often damaging healthy cells alongside cancerous ones, leading experts like Professor Kevin Williams, Ph.D., to advocate for alternative approaches. “For rare forms of cancer, there may be few treatment options and chances are that big pharmaceutical companies may not be working on it,” Williams explained.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer

Williams is concentrating his efforts on IBC, which comprises only 1% to 5% of all breast cancer cases but is one of its deadliest variants. Sadly, it carries a mere 40% survival rate over five years. IBC symptoms can mimic those of a skin rash, complicating timely and accurate detection. “If it gets missed or misdiagnosed, it progresses rapidly,” Williams cautioned. A biopsy is necessary for definitive diagnosis.

Triple Negative Breast Cancer

In parallel, Associate Professor John Scott, Ph.D., is exploring drug repurposing for TNBC. TNBC accounts for 10% to 15% of all breast cancer cases and disproportionately affects young African American women. TNBC uniquely lacks the biological markers targeted by existing breast cancer drugs, complicating treatment strategies. Scott’s approach involves utilizing FDA-approved drugs initially intended for other medical conditions.

At BRITE, the search for suitable drugs begins with high-throughput screening from a repository of 150,000 compounds, including many already approved for clinical use. “If you are now looking for new drugs for IBC, maybe the answer is already in the literature,” Williams said, highlighting the process of text mining—analyzing existing research to identify potential new applications for known drugs. 

So far, this method has yielded approximately 20 promising candidates that are being tested in laboratory settings. This process starts with in vitro experiments before progressing to animal models.

AMMU Approves New Academic Programs and Nuclear Science Center

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The Alabama A&M University Board of Trustees has unveiled a series of transformative initiatives to broaden the university’s academic offerings and enhance its global presence. The board’s Oct. 25 meeting featured impactful updates from President Daniel K. Wims and his leadership team, culminating in several critical decisions that promise to propel Alabama A&M toward future growth.

“We’re at a great place with this University,” said Board President Pro Tempore Dr. Wayne Watts. “We have a lot of things that are moving in the right direction. We have a Board that is courageous to step out and do things that need to be done. We have an administration that’s moving us forward in every direction.”

Expanding Global Reach Through Partnerships

Among the meeting highlights was the Board’s approval of multiple international partnerships, formalized through Memorandums of Understanding. Alabama A&M has negotiated with several institutions, including The University of Zambia, Bauleni United Sports Academy, Chande Baptist Orphanage, Faith Orphanage Foundation, and the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali. Additionally, the School of Agricultural Sciences at Malla Reddy University in Telangana State, India, is included in this network. These partnerships aim to facilitate academic exchanges and collaborative research and provide students valuable global exposure.

Introduction of New Academic Offerings

The Board also approved various new academic programs and specializations tailored to meet evolving student and industry needs. Notable additions include:

  • New Distance Education Policy
  • PhD Concentration in Plant and Soil Sciences
  • MS Specialization in Plant and Soil Sciences
  • Minor in African American Studies
  • MBA Concentration in Accounting Analytics
  • BA Psychology Tracks in Sports Psychology, Clinical Psychology, and Forensic Psychology
  • MS Specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Doctoral Degree Mathematics Specialization in Curriculum Instruction
  • Revised program title from Pre-Elementary to Early Childhood Education (P-3)
  • New Minors in Physics and Data Science

Additionally, Alabama A&M introduced various non-degree certificates to provide flexible educational pathways for students looking to enhance their skill sets without committing to a full degree program. 

Commemorating Legacy and Campus Development

As part of the preparations for the university’s 150th Anniversary Fundraising effort, the Board also approved the construction of a statue honoring NFL Hall of Famer John Stallworth.

In a significant move to advance research and innovation, the Alabama A&M Board of Trustees approved the establishment of a Center for Nuclear Science and Engineering. This center aims to position Alabama A&M as a cutting-edge nuclear science research leader, further aligning with the university’s strategic vision for global growth.

Central State University Under Fiscal Watch Amid Financial Challenges

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Central State University has been placed on fiscal watch following self-reported financial difficulties to the Ohio Department of Higher Education. ODHE Chancellor Mike Duffey made the announcement Friday, highlighting a proactive approach to improve the university’s financial condition.

The fiscal watch designation imposes stricter financial reporting requirements, enhances engagement with the board of trustees, and mandates evaluations by the auditor of state. These measures aim to stabilize CSU’s financial health and create a pathway for improvement.

The chancellor has the authority to designate any college or university under fiscal watch when “immediate and decisive action is necessary” to address financial issues. Adhering to state regulations, he has coordinated with Governor Mike DeWine to certify this declaration.

What Led To The Fiscal Watch?

CSU President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti addressed the situation, noting that the university has struggled with expenditures outpacing revenues in previous years. While traditional enrollment remains stable, it has not met anticipated targets, exacerbated by a significant decline in online student enrollment.

In response to this fiscal watch status, CSU will develop a financial recovery plan to restore stability within three years. This plan will include quarterly reports to the Board of Trustees and Chancellor Duffey.

CSU has already taken steps to mitigate expenses and enhance revenue streams. This includes changes in leadership across several departments, staff reductions in global online programs, and a halt on non-mandatory travel.

Governor Mike DeWine reaffirmed a commitment to assist the university in its recovery efforts. “As the only public HBCU and one of only two land-grant universities in the state, Central State and its students are a unique and important piece of the higher education landscape in Ohio,” he stated.

The collaboration with the auditor of state’s office will enable CSU to utilize technical expertise and strategic advice to strengthen budgeting, financial accounting, and reporting practices. The ODHE is also set to provide additional accounting support during this transitional phase.

CSU previously faced a fiscal watch designation in April 2015, which stemmed from an audit revealing below-acceptable financial scores for two consecutive years. The university successfully exited this status by April 2017. 

Information sourced from Xenia Gazette.

HBCU Honors Boy as Honorary Police Officer at Magic City Classic

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Devarjaye "DJ" Daniel receives honorary police officer title.

Amidst the vibrant celebrations of the Magic City Classic, America’s largest Historically Black College and University football game, Alabama State University took a moment to honor 12-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, who is being treated for advanced-stage brain cancer. On Friday, Oct. 25, ASU’s director of public safety, Kelvin Kendrick, officially bestowed the title of “honorary police officer” upon DJ during a heartfelt ceremony at Birmingham’s CrossPlex.

Director Kendrick expressed that this experience was one of the most meaningful duties he has performed in his career. “It was truly an honor and privilege to take part in DJ’s swearing in ceremony,” he stated. “The strength and courage that he exudes is a testament of what it means to protect and serve, and I am proud to have him sworn in as an (honorary) Alabama State University police officer.”

Officer DJ’s Big Goal

DJ’s deep aspiration to become a law enforcement officer inspired this special recognition. His dream was made possible through a collaborative effort between ASU and the Birmingham Police Department. DJ aims to achieve an extraordinary goal. He wants to be sworn in as an honorary officer by 1,000 different police departments across the United States.

“ASU’s president, Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., believes in the concept of ‘CommUniversity,’ (ASU’s initiative to engage and help the community), Kendrick said. “I can’t think of a better way to advance President Ross’s goal than to honor DJ Daniel and make him a part of our police department.”

The Magic City Classic features a fierce rivalry between Alabama A&M University and ASU. It is not only a highlight for sports fans. It also includes various festivities such as the Classic Kickoff, Magic City Classic Parade, Tailgate Party, and captivating halftime performances from the Mighty Marching Hornets and the Marching Maroon and White. 

Grambling State Coach Mickey Joseph Fined and Reprimanded for Officiating Comments

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Mickey Joseph, the head football coach at Grambling State University, has been publicly reprimanded and fined $5,000 by the Southwestern Athletic Conference following controversial remarks made during a weekly press conference regarding officiating in his team’s recent loss to Texas Southern.

Grambling State Head Football Coach Mickey Joseph
Grambling State Head Football Coach Mickey Joseph (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)

In a Zoom conference call held on Monday morning, Joseph expressed frustration over what he perceived as poor officiating during Saturday’s 24-17 defeat. “I think it’s some bullshit calls,” he stated bluntly.

Joseph’s comments did not go unnoticed by SWAC officials, who cited violations of the conference’s Code of Ethics, particularly Section II, Article 12, Item I, which outlines the causes for imposing penalties on coaches. The league emphasized that future infractions could lead to further penalties, including considerable fines or even a suspension from coaching duties.

Reflecting on his statements, Joseph acknowledged the potential repercussions, stating, “I know they’re going to shoot me a fine — you know —  got the money to pay it.” This season marks Joseph’s first year leading the HBCU football program, where he currently holds a 4-4 record after three losses in the last four games.

Joseph Apologizes

In light of the situation, Joseph issued a formal apology later, recognizing the importance of maintaining a level of professionalism befitting his role. “As the head football coach at Grambling State University, I recognize the responsibility I hold in setting a standard of professionalism and integrity for my program.,” he stated. “It is essential that I demonstrate the conduct we expect from our student-athletes and staff. I apologize for my remarks during the SWAC coaches call regarding game officiating. Moving forward, I am committed to fostering a respectful and collaborative relationship with the SWAC officials to ensure a positive experience for our fans, our players, and the broader community we represent.”

Howard Alumnus to Establish HBCU Scholarship Fund After NFL Lawsuit 

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Jim Trotter

In a significant development for aspiring sports journalists from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Howard alumnus and former NFL media reporter Jim Trotter has plans to create a scholarship fund supported by his recent lawsuit settlement with the National Football League. 

Earlier this month, Trotter settled in a retaliation lawsuit he filed against the NFL after alleging racial discrimination within the organization. Although the specific terms of the settlement have not been disclosed, Trotter revealed via social media that the NFL will contribute to the scholarship initiative to support HBCU students pursuing careers in sports journalism.

Details of the Lawsuit

The lawsuit stemmed from Trotter’s claims of a hostile work environment for Black employees, discriminatory hiring practices, and racist remarks made by prominent NFL figures, including Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula. In one alarming instance, Trotter quoted Pegula as saying, “If the Black players don’t like it here, they should go back to Africa and see how bad it is,” in response to the league’s social justice efforts.

Commitment to Diversity in Sports Media

At a recent sports media and management event during Howard’s centennial homecoming, Trotter emphasized his commitment to empowering the next generation of journalists. “From the very first moment that I filed this lawsuit… my focus was always on having a portion of it going back to HBCU students that want to be sports journalists.,” he stated.

Beyond financial contributions, Trotter hopes to inspire systemic change within the NFL. Reflecting on his experiences, he noted, “We had no Black managers, no Black copy editors, we had no full-time Black employees on the news desk. To my knowledge, nothing has changed, which is really disappointing.”

Hamilton shared similar sentiments regarding the lack of diversity within the league after visiting NFL headquarters earlier this year, where he said most of the influential figures did not reflect his background.

Trotter believes meaningful change will only come through fiscal accountability. “The way change is made in this league is through litigation or a loss of revenue,” he explained. 

Source: The Hilltop

HBCU Entrepreneur Spotlight: The Groove CLTR Magazine, Florida Memorial University

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In an inspiring display of creativity and collaboration, five students from Florida Memorial University have come together to launch “The Groove CLTR Magazine.” Founded by Chelsea Hopkins, Hardy-Muguet Zaou, David Buggs, Malcolm Lovett, and Ayr’reka Gilghrest, it aims to provide a vibrant platform that celebrates Black fashion, music, art, cinema, and culture.

Members of The Groove Culture Magazine team.
Members of The Groove Culture Magazine team.

The Groove CLTR Magazine’s vision was born from a shared passion for creativity. “We wanted to create a platform where we could showcase our creativity and allow other students at our university to show their talents,” Zaou, the magazine’s editor-in-chief, explained. “This passion for self-expression and storytelling is central to the magazine’s mission as it seeks to amplify voices within the Florida Memorial community.”

The HBCU Experience

The dynamic team realized that being students at a historically Black university uniquely positioned them to focus on Black culture and its influence across various disciplines. “Fashion was our first point of connection—initially, we bonded by complimenting each other’s outfits,” Zaou said. “Being students at an HBCU, it was clear that Black culture had to be central to everything we do. It’s part of who we are and the community we represent.” Their commitment to showcasing diverse body types, styles, and perspectives in fashion and beyond highlights the importance of representation in their content.

Zaou, a Paris, France native, came to Florida Memorial on a soccer scholarship, unaware of what an HBCU was. His experience at FMU has contributed to his personal growth and revealed the strong connections among people of African descent worldwide. “HBCUs are definitely a safe place for black people around the world,” Zaou said. 

Being part of an HBCU holds immense significance for the entire team. They embrace the legacy of Black excellence and innovation that permeates their institution, allowing it to fuel their creativity and commitment to uplifting their culture. “This environment constantly fuels our work and encourages us to uplift our culture and community,” said Zaou. 

Confronting Challenges

While the journey has been rewarding, it hasn’t come without obstacles. The founders face the challenge of creating high-quality content with limited resources. Hardy-Muguet noted, “Many schools have organizations that help students access the tools needed for magazine creation, such as booking spaces for meetings, securing equipment for photoshoots, and gaining funding for activities. Often, we draw from our own pockets to cover studio times, cameras, lighting, and props.” Despite these hurdles, the team’s resilience and determination shine through as they strive to bring their creative vision to life.

Looking Ahead

With aspirations beyond Florida Memorial University, the founders aim to expand The Groove CLTR Magazine to other HBCUs and establish a presence in the broader fashion and Black culture industries. “We want The Groove CLTR to become a household name in these spaces,” said Zaou, demonstrating their ambition to make a significant impact.

“Our magazine is only a couple of weeks old, but our back-to-school photoshoot and seeing how positively people reacted to it was our proudest moment,” said Zaou. 

The Groove CLTR Magazine is eager to connect with fellow creatives and anyone interested in supporting their mission. Readers can follow the magazine on Instagram and TikTok @thegroovecltr. For those looking to contribute or provide support, the team welcomes DMs from creatives at other HBCUs and accepts donations through CashApp and PayPal (z.hardymuguet@gmail.com).

As The Groove CLTR Magazine continues to evolve, it is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and cultural representation at HBCUs. 

HBCU Ed.D. Program Joins Prestigious Carnegie Doctoral Consortium

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Delaware State Education Dept.

Delaware State University has announced that its Doctor of Education program in Educational Leadership has been accepted as a member of the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate. This distinction represents the highest achievement for doctoral education programs. It also marks a significant milestone for DSU as one of only two Historically Black Colleges and Universities recognized by the consortium.

Dr. Shelley Rouser, chair of the education department at DSU, emphasized the importance of this affiliation. “Being part of a professional network of like-minded institutions fosters collaboration and sharing of best practices while at the same time creating the ideal context to learn from those who have made strides in those areas where we aspire to become even greater.”

Dr. Patrice Gilliam-Johnson, interim provost and chief academic officer, expressed optimism about the impact of CPED membership on DSU’s educational offerings. “This affiliation marks an important milestone in the evolution of our Doctor of Education program and positions us among a distinguished group of HBCUs within the CPED consortium,” she explained. “It is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and scholars, who are at the forefront of preparing inclusive educational leaders for both higher education and K-12 settings.”

Evolution of the Ed.D. Program

DSU established its Ed.D. program in 2005 and initially focused on educational leadership. The program evolved in 2015, offering specialized K-12 school leadership and higher education tracks. As a CPED member, the program will gain access to valuable resources to enhance educational leadership preparation.

“We are elated to be recognized by CPED,” said Dr. Brenda G. Wynder, associate professor of K-12 educational leadership and DSU’s primary liaison with CPED. “This opportunity will confirm the effectiveness of practices that are already in place as well as equip us with other cutting-edge practices being used in the field.” The program plans to implement CPED resources beginning in the Spring 2025 semester to refine its specializations further.

With over 145 colleges and universities in its consortium, the CPED provides a platform for continuously evaluating and improving doctoral programs. 

The CPED recognizes DSU’s Ed.D. program for its academic rigor, program excellence, and commitment to equity, ethics, and social justice. Established in 2007, the CPED aims to support Ed.D. programs by challenging faculty to rethink advanced educational leadership preparation and improve doctoral program development.

HBCU Weekly Football Scoreboard: Week 9

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Welcome to this week’s HBCU Buzz Football Scoreboard. Our HBCU teams battle it out each week, showcasing their talent, grit, and school spirit. Whether it’s a nail-biting finish or a blowout victory, we’ve got you covered with the final scores.

Week 9 Scores

Tuskegee Golden Tigers 30, Central St. (OH) Marauders 14

Kentucky St. Thorobreds 23, Allen 20

Lincoln (PA) Lions 21, Elizabeth City St. Vikings 20

Virginia Union Panthers 56,  Bowie St. Bulldogs 28

Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls 24, Winston-Salem Rams 15

Hampton Pirates 41, Elon Phoenix 21

Albany St. (GA) Golden Rams 42, Edward Waters Tigers 34

Fort Valley St. Wildcats 62, Morehouse Maroon Tigers 20

Miles Golden Bears 26, Benedict Tigers 14

Norfolk St. Spartans 21, Howard Bison 20

Shaw Bears 38, Fayetteville St. Broncos 35

Jackson St. Tigers 37, Bethune-Cookman Wildcats 17

Ark.-Pine Bluff Golden Lions 35, Mississippi Val. Delta Devils 21

Prairie View Panthers 34, Tex. A&M-Commerce Lions 27

Alabama St. Hornets 27, Alabama A&M Bulldogs 19

N.C. Central Eagles 16, Morgan St. Bears 7

South Carolina St. Bulldogs 69, Delaware St. Hornets 35

Campbell Fighting Camels 21, N.C. A&T Aggies 7

Virginia St. Trojans 45, Bluefield St. Big Blue 6

Florida A&M Rattlers 24, Southern U. Jaguars 6

Texas Southern Tigers 24, Grambling Tigers 17

Paine College Announces Rev. Dr. Lester A. McCorn as New President-select

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Rev. Dr. Lester A. McCorn

The Board of Trustees of Paine College has announced the appointment of Rev. Dr. Lester A. McCorn as the institution’s new President-select. Renowned for his transformational leadership in higher education, Dr. McCorn brings a wealth of experience and vision to Paine College. He will officially assume the presidency on Jan. 1, 2025.

A Proven Leader in Higher Education

Dr. McCorn has served as president and professor of Christian leadership at Clinton College in Rock Hill, South Carolina, since 2017. During his tenure, he implemented significant changes that increased student enrollment by 27% in fall 2024, improved retention by 20%, and boosted graduation rates by 25%. Under his leadership, Clinton College expanded its academic offerings by adding five new bachelor’s degrees and secured over $20 million in grants and awards.

A native of Worcester, Massachusetts, Dr. McCorn is an ordained elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and has held pastoral positions across several states.

Dr. McCorn’s academic credentials include a Doctor of Ministry from the United Theological Seminary (2011), a Master of Arts from Chicago Theological Seminary (2003), and a Master of Divinity  Studies from Yale University School of Divinity (1999). He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies from Charter Oak State College (2001) and a Bachelor of Arts in religion and sociology from Morehouse College (1989).

In accepting his new role, Dr. McCorn expressed his honor:

“My acceptance originates from a place of deep respect and admiration for the legacy and significance of this historic institution. Connecting Paine College’s historic past with a strategic vision for the future will catapult this institution into unparalleled prominence in American higher education. I relish the opportunity to collaborate with Paine College’s trustees, administrators, alumni, students, faculty, stakeholders, and civic and business leaders to realize our vision for higher education excellence.”

Dr. McCorn is married to Mrs. Charlene M. McCorn, an elementary school teacher in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Together, they are proud parents of four adult children and five grandchildren. He is also a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

The transition comes following the retirement of Dr. Cheryl Evans Jones, who served Paine College for 31 years. Jones played a pivotal role in developing the Transformation Plan, which will continue under Dr. McCorn’s leadership. 

Formal introductions to the campus community commenced on Oct. 18, and additional focus group meetings are planned to share in the excitement of this new chapter for Paine College.

HBCU Offering Unique Online Master’s Program Focusing on HBCUs

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Lincoln University of Missouri has announced the opening of enrollment for its Master of Arts in Higher Education program with a Historically Black Colleges Universities concentration. This online degree is available for both spring and fall 2025 and aims to equip education professionals with the essential skills to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing HBCUs. 

Dr. Stevie L. Lawrence II, LU‘s provost and vice president for academic affairs, emphasized the program’s mission. “We need more leaders who are specifically trained to navigate the challenges and possibilities within our institutions,” said Dr. Lawrence. “Our MA in Higher Education program is tailored to develop these future leaders. Our goal is to advance HBCU professionals, strengthen HBCUs as a whole, and better support our students.”

A Comprehensive Approach

This master’s program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers the structure, history, and impact of HBCUs. It also incorporates critical leadership and strategy training. Graduates will be prepared for senior roles in student affairs and educational administration. They will gain expertise in strategic decision-making, data assessment, and the legal and ethical responsibilities inherent in higher education governance.

One of the program’s key focuses is fostering inclusive and equitable educational environments. Students will acquire vital communication and conflict-resolution skills to promote diversity and equity on campus. The curriculum also emphasizes institutional advancement, equipping learners with essential fundraising and grant-writing techniques. In their final semester, students will complete a culminating research project, applying their knowledge to address real-world challenges in higher education settings.

A Flexible Program

Designed with working professionals in mind, LU’s Master of Arts in Higher Education can be completed in 15 months or less. The 36 credit hour program can be balanced alongside personal and professional commitments. 

Dr. Lawrence noted that the program reflects the core values of HBCUs—accessibility, inclusivity, and support. Through mentorship from experienced faculty, graduate students will receive the training necessary to thrive in their academic and professional endeavors while contributing positively to the future of HBCUs.

HBCU Unveils State-of-the-Art Hydroponic Greenhouse at Nearby High School

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UDC ribbon cutting of new hydroponic greenhouse at Anacostia High School

The University of the District of Columbia proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new hydroponic greenhouse at Anacostia High School with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday. Attended by students, educators, community leaders, and key stakeholders, the event marked a significant step toward enhancing educational opportunities in urban agriculture.

UDC designed the cutting-edge facility to serve as a “living classroom,” where students will engage with advanced soilless farming systems. The greenhouse incorporates technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. The building aims to equip future generations with the skills necessary to address urgent challenges within urban food systems.

William Hare, associate dean of UDC’s College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability, and Environmental Sciences, expressed enthusiasm for the transformative potential of the greenhouse. “This project embodies the future of urban agriculture, blending classroom education with real-world applications. We are thrilled to provide students with this hands-on opportunity to learn cutting-edge technologies that are changing the way we think about food production,” he stated.

The initiative is the result of a robust collaboration including UDC, D.C. Public Schools, the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment, and the D.C. Department of General Services. This partnership aims to increase awareness of STEM careers and foster economic opportunities for residents across the district. Moreover, it signifies a progressive shift towards integrating technology-driven agriculture education into the classroom.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Anacostia High School students guided attendees on a tour of the greenhouse, showcasing its advanced hydroponic systems and illustrating how technology and agriculture can converge to develop groundbreaking solutions for urban communities. 

In the upcoming months, students will actively participate in nurturing and harvesting fresh produce, while simultaneously honing essential skills to help improve their communities’ health, environment, and overall sustainability.

DSU CURE Loockerman Dedicated in Downtown Dover

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Delaware State University’s College of Business proudly dedicated its second facility near DSU Downtown – CURE Loockerman, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 24. Located at 205 S. State St., the new center is part of a broader initiative to bolster economic development through support for small businesses in the state capital.

CURE, which stands for Center for Urban Revitalization and Entrepreneurship, is designed to stimulate entrepreneur development by providing small business incubator programming and targeted training in essential areas such as marketing, branding, accounting, and business planning. The facility features a shared workspace, encouraging collaboration and innovation among entrepreneurs.

In addition to fostering an environment conducive to business growth, CURE Loockerman is committed to engaging civic and community leaders to ensure that small businesses are created and supported to thrive in a competitive market.

This latest addition comes just a month after the College of Business dedicated another CURE facility on the corner of W. Division and N. New streets, four blocks away from CURE Loockerman. The CURE Division Street initiative addresses critical factors that impact entrepreneurial success, including education, financial literacy, mental health, social networks, and family structure.

“Today, as we celebrate the ribbon cutting of CURE Loockerman, we are also reaffirming our commitment to the entrepreneurial spirit of Dover,” said Dr. Michael Casson Jr., DSU dean of the College of Business. “Together with CURE Division, these centers will empower diverse entrepreneurs and foster innovative business ventures, driving economic growth throughout our community.”

As the new center opens its doors, it aims to catalyze economic revitalization, equipping entrepreneurs in Dover with the resources and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s evolving marketplace. 

HBCU Secures Nearly $2M to Enhance Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Using VR

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South Carolina State University has been awarded a substantial federal grant of $1,985,515 to implement a groundbreaking virtual reality program toward reducing crashes involving commercial motor vehicles. The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration as part of the 2024 High Priority-Commercial Motor Vehicle grant initiative.

The project is titled “A SMART Virtual Reality Awareness Program to Reduce Commercial Motor Vehicles Crashes.” It seeks to leverage innovative technology to foster safety awareness and education among commercial vehicle operators in South Carolina. SC State’s Institute of Business, Environment, Communications, and Transportation and the James E. Clyburn University Transportation Center will coordinate the project.

Project Leaders

Dr. Barbara Adams, executive director of BECT, will act as the project’s principal investigator. Dr. Judith Mwakalonge, a professor of transportation, and Dr. Stanley Ihekweazu, dean of the SC State College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Transportation, will serve as co-principal investigators.

Drs. Brabara Adams, Judith Mwakalonge and Stanley Ihekweazu
Drs. Brabara Adams, Judith Mwakalonge and Stanley Ihekweazu

“Commercial truck accidents are common in South Carolina, and the primary contributing factors are driver-related behavior related to speeding, driver fatigue, and distracted driving,” Adams said. “Virtual reality is an innovative technology that is revolutionizing training across many sectors. Using it in transportation training will enable South Carolina drivers to experience realistic situations and refine their responses and actions without the risk of harm to others.”

The project outlines six critical tasks to achieve its objectives. Those include synthesizing causes and costs associated with CMV crashes, ranking these causes, and developing virtual reality scenarios based on real-world incidents. A virtual reality lab will also be developed and implemented for the SMART virtual reality awareness and training program. 

“The U.S. Department of Transportation is an essential partner for SC State as we grow the James E. Clyburn University Transportation Center and its research mission,” said SC State President Alexander Conyers. “We know the importance of using the newest and best technology in our research endeavors, and virtual reality is the perfect example of how to elevate our processes.”

This virtual reality project adds to SC State’s growing portfolio of federally funded transportation initiatives. In 2023, the university joined a national consortium led by Clemson University to investigate cybersecurity vulnerabilities within transportation systems, supported by a significant five-year USDOT grant. Additionally, in 2022, SC State researchers collaborated on a $1.3 million project that utilized artificial intelligence to mitigate CMV crashes, particularly in highway work zones.