Breaking Barriers: Edy Lawson-Jackson and Samira Jackson’s Historical NFL Journey 

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Samira Jackson and Edy Lawson-Jackson

Edy Lawson-Jackson and her daughter, Samira Jackson, have made history as the first-ever mother-daughter duo certified as agents by the NFL Players Association, according to The Baltimore Sun. Their journey is groundbreaking and inspires hope and resilience within the Black community and beyond.

Edy began pursuing a career in sports in the late 1980s, becoming one of the few Black women in an industry historically dominated by men. After years of hard work, she earned her NFL agent certification in 2010. Edy has strongly advocated for her clients while dedicating herself to expanding opportunities for others in sports representation. Her focus is mainly on women and people of color. She graduated from Baltimore City College and earned her juris doctorate from Howard University School of Law. 

Inspired by her mother’s pioneering spirit, Samira pursued her path after establishing a career in corporate finance and obtaining a law degree. She followed in Edy’s footsteps and earned her NFLPA certification in 2022. Together, Edy and Samira symbolize the breaking of glass ceilings and the reshaping of narratives for future generations of women in sports.

“Edy is a great example, which means Samira will be two times better. We always hear of generational wealth, but in this case it’s generational opportunity, so I’m not surprised that they’re the first ever,” said Chineze Nwagbo, the NFLPA’s director of player programs and engagement, told the outlet.

Becoming an NFL agent is challenging, requiring rigorous preparation, including comprehensive exams and ongoing education. With only a small fraction of certified NFL agents being women, Edy and Samira’s achievements serve as a testament to what can be achieved against the odds, paving the way for future generations to follow in their footsteps. 

Applications Open for HBCU Student Firefighter Training Program

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Firefighter student overlooks a fire.

The 1890 Land Grant Institution Wildland Fire Consortium has officially opened applications for its Student Firefighter Training Program. This initiative, developed in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, aims to enhance minority participation in fire management and is modeled after Alabama A&M University’s successful FireDawgs program. Launched in 2009, FireDawgs works to increase student engagement in firefighting management.

The consortium comprises four Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including Alabama A&M, Florida A&M University, Southern University, and Tuskegee University. Students at these institutions receive comprehensive training and expertise in wildland fire management.

The Student Firefighter Training Program offers a fully funded educational experience that includes various events, workshops, and fieldwork designed to equip students with essential firefighting skills. Highlights of the program include:

– Kickoff Event: Montgomery, Alabama (Nov. 15-17, 2024)

-Professional Workshop & Drone Symposium: Florida A&M University (Feb. 21-23, 2025)

-Wildland Fire Training: Alabama A&M University (May 27-June 7, 2025), which includes meals and dorm accommodations

To qualify for this prestigious program, applicants must be full-time undergraduate students majoring in forestry, natural resources, or a related discipline, with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Participants will receive a $3,500 stipend, travel support for training and conferences, hands-on fire field training, and valuable fire certifications. The deadline to apply is Oct. 14, 2024.

The 1890 LGI Wildland Fire Consortium addresses the concerning underrepresentation of minorities in forestry and wildfire careers. According to the Society of American Foresters, White non-Hispanic individuals account for 91% of all bachelor’s degrees in agriculture and natural resources. African Americans and Hispanics represent only 1.9% and 3.6%, respectively.

The need for skilled personnel is increasingly urgent. During the peak of the 2022 fire season, over 70 large fires burned nationwide, requiring more than 22,000 responders—nearly three times the 10-year average for July.

VSU Homecoming Gospel Concert Set to Feature Norfolk and NCAT Choirs

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Virginia State University Gospel Chorale

Virginia State University is gearing up for an inspiring celebration as it announces the highly anticipated Homecoming Gospel Concert. This event will feature the university’s renowned Gospel Chorale alongside the gospel choirs from Norfolk State University and North Carolina A&T University. It will occur on Sunday, Oct. 6, in Daniel Gymnasium, starting at 4:00 PM. 

The Gospel Concert has become a cherished tradition marking the start of Homecoming Week. It represents the first opportunity for the public to engage with the festivities. 

“We are so excited to help kick off this year’s Homecoming theme, ‘The Hill Unleashed,’” said Perry Evans II, VSU Gospel Chorale director. “These students work incredibly hard to perform at the highest level, and we can’t wait to put on an amazing show that will inspire and uplift the VSU community and gospel fans alike.”

Tickets for the Gospel Concert are available for purchase online. Following the concert, attendees are encouraged to continue the celebration at the Lighting of the Stadium event at Rogers Stadium, which is free and open to the public.

In line with the Homecoming festivities, VSU also proudly announces the return of its full-route homecoming parade, set to take place on Saturday, Oct. 12, beginning at 9:00 AM. The parade will follow its traditional route, starting at Union Train Station in Old Towne Petersburg and concluding at the VSU Multi-Purpose Center. This restoration to the original route comes after the previous year’s scaled-back event due to bridge repairs. 

The 2024 homecoming parade complements the Gospel Concert and embodies this year’s theme, “The Hill Unleashed.” For more information, including the full schedule of events and ticket purchases, click here. 

HBCU Chancellor Will Be Honored With Presidential Honor

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Pictured Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon, Ed.D.,

Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon, Ed.D., will be recognized with the prestigious 2024 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to her unwavering commitment to service public higher education. Dixon will receive her award during a ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the NCCU Student Center.

The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, established by former President George H. W. Bush, honors individuals who dedicate thousands of hours to making a difference in the lives of others. Chancellor Dixon brings over two decades of leadership experience in public higher education. She recently assumed her role as chancellor at NCCU on July 1, 2024.

“Receiving this award is a humbling reminder of the impact we can make when we lead with purpose and compassion,” said Dixon. “It has always been my mission to open doors for others, especially in higher education, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue this important work.” 

Dixon’s Educational and Community Impact

Dixon’s notable accomplishments include her transformative leadership at Elizabeth City State University, where she was appointed chancellor in 2018. Under her guidance, ECSU reversed a staggering 60% enrollment decline and an accreditation warning within six months. She achieved a 70% increase in enrollment and secured $25 million in private donations. Before her current role, she served as vice president for academic and student affairs for the University of North Carolina System. She spearheaded statewide initiatives such as the College Foundation of North Carolina Pathways and the federally funded NC State Approving Agency there.

Dixon is a proud member of The Links, Incorporated, Jack and Jill of America, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She serves on the board of Project Kitty Hawk, a nonprofit organization that partners with public universities to enhance opportunities for adult learners, and the Research Triangle Park Foundation. Her contributions to the state were recognized with the Old North State Award, one of North Carolina’s highest honors.

A first-generation college student, Dixon earned her doctorate in higher education administration from North Carolina State University. She focused her research on strategies to assist first-generation students.

HBCU Unviels $171M, Six-story Health and Human Services Center

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Morgan State University Health and Human Services Center Grand Opening

Morgan State University proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new Health and Human Services Center this week. The university unveiled the six-story, 208,000-square-foot facility, which took nearly three years to complete and cost $171 million, during a ceremony attended by students, faculty, alums, and local officials.

Located at the southern entrance of the main campus, the HHSC will house the School of Community Health and Policy, the School of Social Work, and the University Counseling Center, among others. This marks the sixth ribbon-cutting ceremony this semester, highlighting Morgan‘s ambitious development initiatives.

A Center Designed to Enhance Education & The Community

Chairman of the Board of Regents, Kweisi Mfume, emphasized the importance of the Center in addressing health disparities, particularly in underserved communities like Baltimore. “This building is more than a building. It’s a building with a very succinct, real, and necessary purpose. And that is to help the overall wellness of our community,” Mfume stated.

The facility features advanced classrooms, fully-equipped laboratories with designated demonstration areas, and communal spaces. It is designed to attract students to vital fields such as nursing, physical therapy, and nutritional science.

Morgan State University Health and Human Services Center Grand Opening
Photo Courtesy: Morgan State University
Morgan State University Health and Human Services Center Grand Opening
Photo Courtesy: Morgan State University
Morgan State University Health and Human Services Center Grand Opening
Photo Courtesy: Morgan State University
Morgan State University Health and Human Services Center Grand Opening
Photo Courtesy: Morgan State University
Morgan State University Health and Human Services Center Grand Opening
Photo Courtesy: Morgan State University
Morgan State University Health and Human Services Center Grand Opening
Photo Courtesy: Morgan State University

Morgan President David K. Wilson said the new center aligns with the University’s strategic goals, including elevating Morgan to an R1 research institution. He praised the collaborative efforts that brought the vision to life, asserting that the HHSC represents a transformative force not only for the University but also for the broader community.

“Today’s opening is simply a moment to celebrate, but it’s also a moment to challenge ourselves,” said President Wilson. “What will we do with this gift that we have been given? How will we leverage this incredible space to serve our students, our community, and our world? I have no doubt that the work done here will indeed change lives, and that is at the very heart of the Morgan legacy. So let us move forward with pride.”

Aldis Hodge Flawlessly Embodies Alex Cross’ Character in Prime Video’s “Cross” Trailer  

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Prime Video "Cross" Key Art Banner

Prime Video has released the official trailer and first-look images for its upcoming crime thriller series, “Cross,” which will premiere on Nov. 14. The three-minute trailer previews how characters from James Patterson’s best-selling Alex Cross book series jump from the pages to the screen with a familiar vibrancy. 

Aldis Hodge stars as detective and forensic psychologist Alex Cross, and his performance in the trailer feels undeniably connected to the book series. He nails the dedication, determination, and meticulousness of the book detective. There’s also a glimmer of wit that suggests we’re in for more than just a traditional crime drama. 

Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross
Photo Courtesy: Prime Video
Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross, Isaiah Mustafa as John Sampson
Photo Courtesy: Prime Video
Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross, Isaiah Mustafa as John Sampson, Alona Tal as Kayla Craig
Photo Courtesy: Prime Video
Ryan Eggold as Ed Ramsey, Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross
Photo Courtesy: Prime Video
Aldis Hodge as Alex Cross
Photo Courtesy: Prime Video

Created by showrunner and writer Ben Watkins, the trailer promises a classic good vs. evil narrative, yet it’s clear that the conflict between Cross and his adversaries will be anything but simplistic.  In season one, Detective Cross confronts a sadistic serial killer who is leaving a trail of bodies throughout the city. As Cross and his partner pursue the killer, a threat from his past emerges, threatening to unravel the life he has fought to protect, including his grieving family and career. 

The series comprises eight episodes that will be available exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories worldwide. Before its debut, “Cross” was renewed for a second season during Prime Video’s inaugural Upfront presentation.

In addition to Hodge, who also serves as a producer, the cast includes Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Alona Tal, Samantha Walkes, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd, Jennifer Wigmore, Eloise Mumford, and Ryan Eggold. 

“Cross” is a collaborative production involving Amazon MGM Studios, Paramount Television Studios, and Skydance Television. With executive producers like Watkins and Patterson himself, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling addition to the genre. “Cross” will be a must-watch for anyone who loves a gripping detective series.

Federal Judge Allows Biden Administration’s Student Loan Forgiveness Plan to Forward

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US President Joe Biden gestures after speaking about student loan debt relief at Madison Area Technical College in Madison, Wisconsin, April 8, 2024.

A federal judge has allowed a temporary restraining order against President Joe Biden’s new student loan forgiveness plan to expire. U.S. District Judge Randal Hall in Georgia ruled that the state of Georgia lacked standing to sue over the Biden administration relief effort. If implemented, the plan could relieve tens of millions of Americans, and according to the Center for American Progress, three out of every four federal student loan holders.

This decision stems from a lawsuit filed by seven GOP-led states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Missouri, North Dakota, and Ohio. These states argue that the U.S. Department of Education’s debt cancellation initiative is illegal. However, Judge Hall directed that the case be transferred to a Missouri federal court, where claims are centered on how Biden’s plan allegedly threatens the interests of the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority, a student loan servicer.

Just ahead of the November elections,  Hall’s ruling means the Biden administration can move forward with its student loan forgiveness strategy. In a statement, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Education praised the ruling, which indicated that Georgia had “no legal basis” to challenge the plan. However, they criticized the ongoing litigation as an effort by Republican officials to obstruct relief for millions of borrowers.

President Biden’s student loan forgiveness initiative aims to assist various groups, including those who owe more than their original loan amounts, long-term borrowers, individuals from low-value schools, and those eligible for existing forgiveness programs but who have yet to apply.

Florida A&M Student Fights to Establish College Republicans Chapter Amidst Political Isolation

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Charrise Lane

Charrise Lane, a senior at Florida A&M University, is striving to revive the College Republicans chapter at her historically Black university. Still, her efforts face a significant hurdle: finding a faculty advisor, NBC News reports. With most FAMU students registering as Democrats, Lane’s desire to create a space for conservative dialogue has left her feeling isolated.

“I believe that Black people are needed on both sides,” Lane told NBC News. Her struggle is not unique; in the past, several HBCUs hosted college Republican chapters, including Howard University, Morehouse College, and even FAMU. The National College Republican Committee maintains a presence on nearly 2,000 campuses nationwide. However, currently, no active chapters exist at any HBCUs.

Lane has contacted multiple professors for guidance, but only two have responded thus far. Those professors cited constraints that prevented them from taking on the advisory role. Despite these setbacks, she remains undeterred, meeting with like-minded classmates and attending events with Florida State University’s College Republicans.

Pro-Black and Conservative

She shared a video explaining why she is Republican with her 41,000 X followers. Like the fuel behind Lane’s commitment to revitalizing the College Republicans, she said her Christian upbringing shapes her conservative values. She advocates strong family units, anti-abortion measures, and school choice, which she believes resonate with the Republican Party’s historical tenets. However, her views have made her a target for criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. 

“From Republicans, I get called a Black supremacist, and sometimes they say that I race bait, and then, from the Dems, sometimes I get called an Uncle Tom,” Lane shared. This dual criticism underscores her complicated position as a pro-Black conservative in a predominantly liberal environment.

Felicia Barnes, assistant director of student organizations at FAMU, reaffirmed the administration’s openness to welcoming the College Republicans back to campus. The school requires campus organizations to have at least ten members and a faculty member associated with the university for at least three years to serve as an advisor. 

SC State Honors College Donates Books to Rural Schools 

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Brookdale Elementary School Principal Georgetta Kennedy, the SC State Miller F. Whittaker Library’s Cathi Cooper Mack, and the Honors College’s Dr. Windy Stephenson, with books donated for students.

South Carolina State University’s Dr. Emily England Clyburn Honors College recently led an initiative to promote literacy among young students in rural Orangeburg County. The joint effort saw several SC State offices and programs come together to provide books to students at Brookdale Elementary School, allowing them to begin building their libraries during HBCU Week.

“Collaboration is the main ingredient in the success of this worthwhile literacy effort to ensure that our youth are not only encouraged to read but also are provided books to start or add to their personal collections,” said Dr. William H. Whitaker, Jr., the Honors College’s dean. “Indeed, teamwork makes the dream work, and I am so proud of the university family for their contributions to the literacy campaign.”

Participating units in this initiative included the Miller F. Whittaker Library, the Office of Student Life & Leadership, the Department of Athletics, the SC State Cheerleaders, and the First-Year Experience team.

The book donations came from a well-known publishing company thanks to a partnership facilitated by Dr. Windy Stephenson, the Honors College’s director of academic and scholarship services, during her tenure in Pre-K-12 school administration.

Several Honors College students, along with library student workers, volunteered to sort and organize the books to ensure that each Brookdale student received reading materials tailored to their interests. Cathi Cooper Mack, assistant to the Whittaker Library’s dean and coordinator of collection organization, oversaw the distribution to the young scholars.

“Developing a culture of reading for our children and youth at an early age is critical in achieving literacy and establishing well-educated future generations of accomplished citizens,” Stephenson said.

Beyond The Books

SC State students and staff at Brookdale Elementary School
SC State students and staff at Brookdale Elementary School. Photo Courtesy: SC State University
SC State students and staff at Brookdale Elementary School.
SC State students and staff at Brookdale Elementary School. Photo Courtesy: SC State University

The event was not just about literacy; it was also filled with school spirit and lively activities. Spike the Bulldog, SC State’s beloved mascot, along with the SC State cheerleaders, engaged with the young students, creating an atmosphere of excitement and fun. Additionally, members of the “Divine Nine” fraternities and sororities, the Student Government Association, and other campus organizations rallied the Brookdale Eagles in cheers, steps, strolls, and dancing, making the day a high-energy celebration.

Stephenson, a passionate advocate for literacy, shared her love for reading and encouraged students to embrace it wholeheartedly. Leading the Brookdale Eagles in an interactive chant, “The More I Read, The Better I Get,” she inspired the young scholars to take pride in their reading journey.

The First-Year Experience’s executive director, Dr. Lisa Sparks, assistant director Naseema Moore, and a group of SC State freshmen also participated in the event.

American Nurses Foundation’s $339K Grant Positively Impacting Male Nursing Students

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Southern University School of Nursing male students group photo

The American Nurses Foundation is celebrating the impact of the $339,000 grant it awarded to Southern University and A&M College in April aimed at enhancing educational programs for male nurses of color. The funding is part of the foundation’s Diversify Nursing Research through Support of Minority Institutions research grant. 

The groundbreaking proposal titled “Workplace Racism, Perceived Stress, and Health Promoting Lifestyle Behaviors Among African American Registered Nurses,” was selected by an independent review panel after a competitive selection process involving three minority-serving institutions. 

“African American nurses account for 11% of the registered nurse workforce in the United States and even less than that are African American men. Southern University School of Nursing is the largest producer of African American nurses in the state of Louisiana, playing a critical role in addressing racial and gender disparities in nursing,” said the Dean and Professor of the College of Nursing and Allied Health at Southern University School of Nursing. “Through support from the American Nurses Foundation, we are closing the gap and increasing the diversity of the nursing workforce to improve health outcomes in vulnerable populations.”

Future Nurses Feel The Impact

Following the grant, some male nursing students within the funded cohort have already begun sharing their experiences on social media. A viral video shows the positive impact of the award, showcasing the journey and aspirations of the emerging nurses as they work towards bringing diversity to the nursing profession.

The three-year partnership aims to tackle barriers faced by racial and ethnic minorities in nursing, in response to insights from the National Commission to Address Racism in Nursing. The initiative strives to fund meaningful research led by diverse nurses, advancing the profession while fostering equity and a variety of perspectives.

Adriane K. Griffen, DrPH, MPH, MCHES®, is the interim executive director and vice president of programs at the American Nurses Foundation. She expressed her enthusiasm for the program. “I’m absolutely thrilled to see bright minds benefiting from the Foundation’s support of this program and excited about their future careers in nursing,” she said, noting her personal connection to nursing through her father’s career in the field.

Howard University Opens New Health & Wellness Center to Support Employee Well-Being

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Howard University has officially launched the Howard Health & Wellness Center, an on-campus clinic designed to enhance employee well-being. Located at the Centers of Excellence building, 2301 Georgia Avenue, Unit D (across from McDonald’s), the center aims to provide accessible healthcare services tailored to the needs of university employees.

Pictured: Alexis Monroe, Dr. McDonald-Pinkett, and Ava Sullivan.
Pictured: Alexis Monroe, Dr. McDonald-Pinkett, and Ava Sullivan. Photo Courtesy: Howard University

Dr. Shelly McDonald-Pinkett, former chief medical officer of Howard University Hospital, has been appointed as the inaugural medical director of the center. Dr. McDonald-Pinkett has extensive experience in clinical operations. She also has a robust academic background as a professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at Howard University College of Medicine.

Prioritizing Health and Wellness

The Howard Health & Wellness Center opened its doors this week offering a variety of services, including acute and urgent care for conditions such as sprains, rashes, and infections. Additionally, employees will have exclusive access to lifestyle health coaching. The life coaching will address everyday health challenges like weight management, cholesterol control, pre-diabetes, and stress reduction. The center is also equipped to support employees managing chronic health conditions, including asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.

“By providing accessible, comprehensive care, we empower our workforce to prioritize their health, ultimately leading to improved productivity and quality of life,” said McDonald-Pinkett. 

Warren Petty, Ed.D., vice president and chief human resources officer at Howard, echoed these sentiments. “The Howard Health & Wellness Center demonstrates our commitment to the well-being of Howard University employees,” Petty said. “With convenient access to top-quality healthcare services, the center is designed to keep our team healthy, engaged, and thriving. We’re excited about the positive impact it will have on our community.”

Leading the Way

Alexis Monroe, the lead medical assistant and Ava Sullivan, the employee health manager, will support Dr. McDonald-Pinkett at the center.  For additional information and to learn more about the services offered at the Howard Health & Wellness Center, click here. 

Olympic Silver Medalist Anna Cockrell Visits JCSU Track and Field Team 

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Anna Cockrell with the JCSU track and field team

Olympic silver medalist Anna Cockrell returned to her hometown this past weekend and visited the Johnson C. Smith University Track and Field team. The daughter of JCSU Board of Trustees Vice Chair Kieth Cockrell, Anna shared her inspiring journey as a champion.

During her visit, Cockrell recounted her sacrifices to achieve her goals. “Nothing was going to stop me from what I had to do. That’s really how I felt,” she shared in a heartfelt message to the JCSU track and field team. “I mean Coach Lawrence knows this; I’ve sacrificed a lot.” She detailed her experiences moving after turning professional. 

“I was in LA for college. I left LA to go to Texas when I went pro, and my coach took a job at Arkansas. The last place I ever wanted to live was Fayetteville, Arkansas,” she said.

Winning In Paris

Cockrell, who recently earned a silver medal in the women’s 400-meter hurdles at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, has established herself as a prominent figure in track and field. Her recent Olympic victory came after she beat her record with a 51.87-second run in the race. She was second to her USA teammate Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who won the race with a world record time of 50.37 seconds. 

Anna Cockrell with the JCSU track and field team
Anna Cockrell with the JCSU track and field team. Photo Courtesy: Jaypeg Productionz
Anna Cockrell with the JCSU track and field team
Anna Cockrell with the JCSU track and field team. Photo Courtesy: Jaypeg Productionz

I’ve been ugly crying for the past 30 minutes, but it’s all smiles now,” she shared in a Tiktok video after winning her silver medal. “I am over the moon excited, and I can’t wait until I get my medal tomorrow.”

A two-time Olympian and a University of Southern California graduate, she also medaled at the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru. In the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she finished eighth in her event, an experience that fueled her determination leading up to her Olympic success in Paris. She started her track career at Charlotte’s Providence Day School. 

WSSU Chancellor and Liberian Minister of Education Hold Historic Meeting on Bilateral Collaboration

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WWSU Chancellor Bonita Brown and Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, Minister of Education of the Republic of Liberia

Winston-Salem State University marked a historic milestone as Chancellor Bonita Brown met with Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, the minister of education of the Republic of Liberia. This made their first official meeting, which aimed to foster bilateral collaboration in higher education.

The meeting took place on Sept. 30 at the WSSU campus and was a significant step toward strengthening educational ties between the two institutions. “Today, I met with the Minister of Education from the Republic of Liberia. We discussed ways we could collaborate and partner to bring their students here to access our programs,” Chancellor Brown shared. “We also discussed a cultural exchange program, where our faculty and students could go to Liberia to learn from their country and the educational strategies they are executing. It’s a win-win situation where we can join forces for the future.”

Minister Jallah’s visit coincided with the inaugural International Liberation Gala, organized by the Liberian Organization of the Piedmont. This gala aimed to raise awareness about the historic connection between Winston-Salem and Liberia. It doubled as a chance to raise funds to support the construction of a student housing project in the Happy Hill community—the first African American neighborhood in Winston-Salem. The housing project is intended to provide residential support for international Liberian students awarded scholarships to attend local universities and community colleges.

Additionally, the meeting addressed revitalizing a previously established Memorandum of Understanding between WSSU’s School of Health Sciences and Grand Bassa Community College in Liberia, reinforcing their commitment to collaboration.

WSSU and Liberian Attendants

WSSU Chancellor Bonita Brown meets with Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, the minister of education of the Republic of Liberia.
WSSU Chancellor Bonita Brown and Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, the minister of education of the Republic of Liberia. Photo Courtesy: WSSU
Meeting attendees in a group photo
Meeting attendees in a group photo. Photo Courtesy: WSSU
Two attendees engaged in a conversation.
Two attendees engaged in a conversation. Photo Courtesy: WSSU

Joining the historic meeting were WSSU’s Dr. Anthony Graham, provost and vice chancellor of Academic Affairs; Dr. Manju Bhat, dean of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education; and Dr. Leslee Battle, dean of the School of Health Sciences. The Liberian delegation included Dr. Emmanuel Clarke, president of the LOP, and other notable members, including Dr. James Hunder and assistants to the minister, Charles Jarrett and Regina Golay.

Following the WSSU meeting, the Liberian delegation was scheduled to meet with representatives from Wake Forest University and Livingstone College in Salisbury, further expanding the scope of their collaborative efforts. 

Harris-Walz Campaign Launches New Ad “Paycheck” Highlighting Economic Benefits for Black Americans

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Kamala Harris

This week, the Harris-Walz campaign unveiled a new advertisement titled “Paycheck,” part of a broader five-week media effort aimed at engaging Black voters in seven crucial battleground states: Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, parts of North Carolina, Georgia, Nevada, Arizona. The ad seeks to effectively communicate Vice President Kamala Harris’ vision for an opportunity economy that promises to financially benefit Black Americans.

The ad will be strategically broadcast on targeted cable and satellite TV channels, national Black-syndicated radio programs, statewide sports radio stations, and urban radio networks across the participating states. This approach aims to reach Black voters in both urban and rural areas, particularly in less represented markets in Georgia, parts of North Carolina, and Michigan.

The Harris-Walz Plan

“Paycheck” outlines the Vice President’s direct plans to tackle pressing economic issues affecting Black communities, especially as Election Day approaches. The ad highlights key concerns such as soaring food and grocery costs, housing affordability, and the need for financial stability. In her message, Vice President Harris emphasizes her commitment to helping hardworking Americans retain more of their earnings each month through practical measures. These include implementing a federal ban on price gouging for food and groceries and introducing historic down payment assistance of $25,000 for first-time homeowners, significantly benefiting over half a million Black homebuyers.

In contrast to her proposals, the ad criticizes the Project 2025 agenda, labeling it detrimental to Black Americans. The campaign argues that Project 2025 would dismantle essential programs such as Social Security, Obamacare, and Medicaid, terminate student debt relief, and ultimately increase living costs for Black families nationwide.

“Vice President Harris has been clear: she is not taking a single voter for granted and is putting in the work to earn each and every vote,” stated Quentin Fulks, principal deputy campaign manager for Harris-Walz. “As President, she is committed to creating an opportunity economy that provides Black Americans with the tools needed to not just get by, but get ahead.”

HBCU Alumna Advocates for Breast Cancer Awareness on The Jennifer Hudson Show

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On October 2, Dorothy Birl-Johnson, an alumna of Alabama State University and a dedicated staff member, graced the nationally recognized daytime talk show “The Jennifer Hudson Show” to shed light on breast cancer awareness. Birl-Johnson is the administrative assistant to ASU President Quinton T. Ross, Jr. She utilized the show’s platform to encourage women of all ages to implement potentially life-saving practices like daily self-examinations and seeking prompt medical attention upon noticing any irregularities.

Eboni’s Breast Cancer Story

Birl-Johnson’s passion for this cause is deeply personal. Her 26-year-old daughter, Eboni Faith Johnson (ASU class of 2020), bravely faced breast cancer. Eboni was diagnosed at the age of 23. Tragically, Eboni passed away from the disease on July 2. During her appearance on Hudson’s show, Birl-Johnson was joined by her daughter Angel Johnson Everett (ASU class of 2010) and her cousin Wanda Williams-Madison (ASU class of 1999), creating a family representation that speaks to their shared commitment to raising awareness.

 “After hearing of my daughter Eboni’s struggle with breast cancer… the TV show felt that we represented so many other families who have been involved with fighting this dreaded disease,” Birl-Johnson explained. She recounted how the journey took them from Eboni’s diagnosis to various treatments, remission, and ultimately, loss. “Thanks to my daughter Angel, who wrote to Hudson’s staff after my late daughter Eboni encouraged her to do so in the final months of her life, so that we could tell her story and help others be vigilant about the issue of breast cancer,” she shared.

Eboni’s breast cancer journey went into remission in 2022, only for the cancer to return in 2023. Despite undergoing extensive therapies and treatments, she ultimately lost her fight. Angel is a breast cancer survivor herself, exemplifying the resilience and determination present in this family.

Throughout the segment, Birl-Johnson emphasized the essential message: early detection can save lives. Birl-Johnson hopes that sharing their family’s experience will inspire others to be proactive about their health, potentially preventing the heartbreak of losing loved ones to this disease.

The Eboni Faith Johnson Scholarship Fund

The Birl-Johnson family is committed to enhancing public awareness of breast cancer and regularly speaks at various gatherings. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reach a wider audience through their appearance on the show. “We are overjoyed that such a big star like Jennifer Hudson cares about breast cancer awareness,” Birl-Johnson said.

In memory of Eboni, her family established the Eboni Faith Johnson Scholarship Fund to support deserving undergraduate students. Individuals can contact the ASU Foundation for more information about the scholarship or to make a donation.

‘Good Times’ Dad, John Amos Dies at 84 

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John Amos as James Evans Sr.

John Amos, the legendary actor celebrated for his role as James Evans, Sr. on the sitcom “Good Times,” has passed away at the age of 84. His son, K.C. Amos, announced the news in a heartfelt statement to the Hollywood Reporter. “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold … and he was loved the world over,” said K.C. “Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”

From Football Player to Actor

The New Jersey native’s journey from aspiring football player to acclaimed actor spans over five decades. Initially pursuing a career in sports, he played college football at Long Beach City College and Colorado State University. After a brief stint in professional football, he redirected his passion toward acting, attending the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

Amos gained prominence in the early 1970s when he was cast as James Evans Sr. on “Good Times,” which aired from 1974 to 1979. The show was one of the first to portray an African American family living in public housing. Amos’s portrayal of the stern yet loving father resonated with audiences, making him a beloved figure in television history. However, his desire for more authentic representation led to tensions with the show’s producers, resulting in his departure in 1976.

His remarkable career continued with his role as Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed miniseries “Roots,” based on Alex Haley’s novel. He received an Emmy nomination for that role. Amos showcased his versatility in numerous television shows and films throughout the following decades. Some include “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and the classic comedy “Coming to America,” which he reprised in its sequel, “Coming 2 America.”

John Amos leaves a legacy defined by profound impact and unforgettable performances, remembered as a pioneer and inspiration in the entertainment industry.