HBCU Sports Spotlight: Janaya Spivey, Mississippi Valley State University

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Meet Janaya Spivey, the head coach of the Mississippi Valley State University Cheerleading team, who is making waves in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Born in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Spivey discovered her passion for cheerleading at a young age and has dedicated herself to the sport ever since.

“I have been a cheerleader since kindergarten,” said Spivey.

While cheering for her junior high team, her mother helped take her skills to the next level by enrolling her in tumbling classes. After graduating from Newton High School in Newton, Mississippi, Spivey chose to attend MVSU, where she initially pursued cheerleading and track and field. However, her love for cheerleading shone through, and during her freshman year, she decided to focus solely on cheer. Over the next four years, she became a staple of the Delta Devils cheer program, leading the team as lead captain from 2020 to 2021. She graduated in 2022 with a degree in Biology.

Cheerleader to Head Cheer Coach

In the summer of 2023, Spivey took on the challenge of becoming the head coach for the MVSU Cheerleading team. Although she was an experienced cheerleader, stepping into a coaching role presented new challenges. “I knew plenty about cheer but nothing about coaching, budgets, and paperwork,” Spivey explained. Fortunately, she found guidance and support from her former coaches and the athletic staff, which helped ease her transition into this leadership position.

Tumbling Over Hurdles

Spivey is no stranger to the obstacles faced by athletic programs. She recognizes the struggles of recruiting and retaining committed athletes, sometimes without the availability of scholarships or other incentives. Yet, she remains undeterred, driven by her mission to instill teamwork, discipline, and school spirit within her team.

A Proud Moment

One of Spivey’s proudest moments as a coach came on Senior Day when she watched her first set of seniors walk the field and then graduate. This milestone not only highlighted her impact on her athletes’ lives but also reinforced her commitment to their success beyond cheerleading.

Throughout her journey, Spivey has been inspired by her faith and often reflects on the powerful message from Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This mantra speaks to the greater purpose behind her work and the positive impact she aims to have on her athletes.

Looking Ahead

As a coach at an HBCU, Spivey embraces the diverse styles of cheerleading she’s encountered throughout her career, fostering an open-minded coaching philosophy that values each athlete’s unique contributions. Looking to the future, she is committed to elevating the cheerleading program at MVSU by enhancing resources and focusing on recruitment efforts to make it a standout feature of MVSU Athletics.

Spivey offers this invaluable advice to aspiring cheerleaders and coaches: “Always remember why you fell in love with your sport.” With her passion fueling her journey, Janaya Spivey will undoubtedly continue to inspire and uplift the next generation of cheerleaders at Mississippi Valley State University.

Foundation Establishes XULA PreMed Scholarship Fund with $125K Donation

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The FBR Foundation has made a significant impact on the future of aspiring medical professionals by donating $125,000 to create the Fred Renwick Endowed Scholarship for PreMed Students at Xavier University of Louisiana. This generous endowment honors the legacy of Dr. Fred Blackwell Renwick, a distinguished educator and advocate for student success.

Honoring Dr. Fred Blackwell Renwick

Fred Renwick
Fred Renwick

Dr. Renwick, who passed away in 2014, had a notable career as a Professor Emeritus at New York University’s Leonard Stern School of Business, where he taught from 1965 until his retirement in 2001. A Morehouse College alumnus, he also held degrees from Harvard University and NYU and received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Morehouse in 2007. His wealth of knowledge and experience spanned various fields, including defense and space exploration, alongside his prolific writing career.

In honoring Dr. Renwick’s parents’ aspirations for him to pursue medicine, the FBR Foundation established this scholarship fund to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in pre-medicine programs at Xavier University. The fund will specifically benefit juniors and seniors who have declared their intent to pursue medical school.

“We sincerely appreciate the financial support of the FBR Foundation to assist our premedical students in realizing their dreams of becoming physicians,” said Reynold Verret, President of Xavier University of Louisiana. ” It is beautiful that the foundation commits to our student success with this generous gift. We are indeed proud of our premedical program and its contribution to equitable healthcare throughout the decades.”

Support for Future Medical Professionals

Xavier University boasts a strong track record in preparing African American students for medical school. Over the past two decades, 803 Xavier graduates have earned medical degrees in the United States. A recent Association of American Medical Colleges report highlighted Xavier’s position as one of the leading institutions for producing African American physicians.

“The fact that so many students from Xavier continue on to medical school or become part of the healthcare system and work in the field of medicine is in line with our decision to support education opportunities in healthcare where African American physicians are underrepresented,” said Lynne Mueller, President of The FBR Foundation. “This Scholarship is an appropriate way to honor Dr. Renwick, who always had a great affinity for his students; we want to do our best to honor Fred’s legacy.”

The Fred Renwick Endowed Scholarship for PreMed Students will be awarded annually in the spring semester. The premedical office will select the recipient based on eligibility criteria. 

N.C. A&T Calls for Nominations for 2025 Human Rights Medal

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NCAT Human Rights Medal

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is now accepting nominations for the prestigious 2025 Human Rights Medal. Submissions are due by Friday, Dec. 6, 2024. This esteemed award honors individuals who have made significant long-term contributions to the advancement of civil rights, civil liberties, and human rights.

The Human Rights Medal is named in recognition of the heroic actions of the A&T Four—Ezell Blair Jr. (Jibreel Khazan), Franklin Eugene McCain, Joseph Alfred McNeil, and David Richmond Jr.—who sparked a transformative movement in American history. On Feb. 1, 1960, these courageous freshmen initiated a sit-in at a segregated lunch counter at Woolworth’s in Greensboro, igniting protests and inspiring activists across the nation.

N.C. A&T emphasizes that nominees can come from beyond the university community, provided they are U.S. citizens. The candidates will be evaluated based on their impactful actions, the needs they address, and the breadth of their contributions to their communities, whether at the local, state, national, or international level.

Notable past recipients of the medal include N.C. Supreme Court Justice Anita Earls, the late civil rights icon Congressman John Lewis, and activists Rev. Nelson and Joyce Johnson, along with Congresswoman Alma Adams ’68 ’72.

The selected honoree will be notified in December and invited to receive the award during the annual Sit-In Breakfast program. The recipient must be available to accept the award in person on campus or virtually if preferred on Jan. 31, 2025 .

For those interested in submitting a nomination, access the nomination packet here.

HBCU Secures $750K for Vital Restoration of Historic House

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Hope House DSU Downtown

Delaware State University is set to embark on an exciting preservation project with the recent awarding of a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service, part of the Department of the Interior. The funding will be used to repair and rehabilitate the Hope House, a historic building over 139 years old located on the DSU Downtown campus.

The grant is part of a broader initiative, allocating $10 million to several historically Black colleges and universities nationwide to protect and preserve their historic properties. Dr. Eleanor Kiesel, senior associate dean of the DSU Wesley College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, played a pivotal role in securing this grant through diligent research and proposal writing. The grant was awarded in July 2024, and work will commence soon.

About the Historic Hope House

Constructed initially before 1885 and showcasing Queen Anne architectural features, the Hope House is a notable structure and a crucial hub for student programming and social services at DSU. It offers counseling services, self-care activities, and cultural connections and will engage the local community in initiatives.

“We are honored to be given this opportunity to provide programming and supportive social services to our students in this home that was originally owned by former slave owners,” Dr. Kiesel remarked.

The funding will address critical issues such as exterior and interior repairs, water damage, and mold remediation in the three-story frame building. This rehabilitation marks Phase I of an extensive project revitalizing the historic property acquired during its purchase of the former Wesley College in 2021.

The establishment of Hope House aligns with DSU’s broader Safe Space Coalition initiative, aimed at enhancing intervention and prevention services related to sexual assault and other safety concerns on campus. Led by Dr. Gwendolyn Scott Jones, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, this coalition works to assess and improve the university’s safety protocols, policies, and response services regarding sexual assaults, domestic violence, bullying, mental health, and more.

WSSU Alumni Raise Nearly $300K in Donations During Homecoming   

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WVSU Homecoming check presentation

Winston-Salem State University alums showed remarkable generosity during its homecoming celebration. During the festive weekend, the university proudly announced a stunning total of $287,963.97 raised by its alumni.

The highlight of the homecoming festivities came during Founder’s Day Convocation, when Reggie McCaskill, president of the Winston-Salem State University National Alumni Association, presented Chancellor Bonita Brown with a check for $100,000. This substantial contribution is earmarked to bolster student scholarships.

Class Reunion Donations

Notably, various reunion classes banded together to contribute significantly to their alma mater:

-Class of 1999 (25th Reunion): $13,494 to support the Red Sea of Sound marching band

-Class of 1989 (35th Reunion): $23,913 to enhance WSSU programs

-Class of 1974 (50th Reunion): $74,000 dedicated to student scholarships

-Class of 1984 (40th Reunion): $40,200 allocated for student scholarships

-1999 CIAA Championship Football Team: $36,357 to support the football program

A Full Circle Moment

Thesha Woodley is the director of alumni engagement at WSSU. She explained that reunion classes come together to campaign throughout the year, and the Office of Alumni Engagement provides guidance on effective fundraising strategies. This year held special significance for Woodley, whose father, Theophilus Woodley, was part of the Class of 1974. “It was definitely a full circle moment – this being a milestone year for him and me being in this role,” she reflected.

Woodley shared how her father’s class instilled in her the values of being a Ram and the importance of alum contributions. Their generous donations helped fund her education, allowing her to graduate without student loan debt. “This year’s contributions will have a profound impact on the lives of our students just like it had on mine,” she remarked, expressing hope that more alumni are inspired to give back to their university.

Chancellor Bonita Brown expressed her gratitude: “On behalf of our students, faculty, and staff, I extend my deepest gratitude to our alumni community. The generosity of our alumni reflects the unwavering dedication of our graduates to ensure a bright future for our university and its students.”

HBCU Weekly Football Scoreboard: Week 13

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Alabama A&M v. MVSU

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.

Miles Golden Bears 14, Carson-Newman Eagles 13

UAlbany Great Danes 41, Hampton Pirates 34

Elon Phoenix 31, N.C. A&T Aggies 21

Alabama A&M Bulldogs 49, Mississippi Val. Delta Devils 35

N.C. Central Eagles 52, Delaware St. Hornets 10

Morgan St. Bears 35, Howard Bison 21 

Virginia Union Panthers 34, Wingate Bulldogs 31

South Carolina St. Bulldogs 53, Norfolk St. Spartans 21

Texas Southern Tigers 31, Ark.-Pine Bluff Golden Lions 23

Jackson St. Tigers 48, Alcorn Braves 10

Alabama St. Hornets 9, Prairie View Panthers 6

Florida A&M Rattlers 41, Bethune-Cookman Wildcats 38

Tennessee St. Tigers 28, Southeast Mo. St. Redhawks 21

HBCU Board Member Inducted into Prestigious Morehouse Board of Preachers

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Presiding Elder Elizabeth E. Yates

Edward Waters University proudly announces the induction of Presiding Elder Elizabeth E. Yates into the esteemed Morehouse Board of Preachers. The official ceremony occurred this spring at the International Chapel of Morehouse College in Atlanta.

Presiding Elder Yates was honored during the 38th annual Martin Luther King Jr. College of Ministers & Laity induction ceremony. The event, which was themed “Saving Democracy While Thriving in the Wake of Cosmic Trauma,” Celebrated her exemplary contributions to spiritual leadership and community service. Professor Gary John Dorrien delivered the keynote address.

A Committed Leader

As a prominent figure in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Presiding Elder Yates has continually demonstrated a commitment to the spiritual and ethical ideals championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the legacy of Morehouse College alums. The Morehouse Board of Preachers honors clergy, laypersons, and administrators who exemplify these values through their actions and outreach.

The International Chapel at Morehouse College, where the induction was held, serves as a beacon for the institution’s dedication to spirituality, cooperation, and justice. This annual ceremony fosters dialogue that encourages meaningful exchanges among diverse groups.

Nominations for this prestigious recognition come from faculty, staff, alumni, and community leaders. The Dean of the Chapel carefully reviews each submission to ensure that inductees reflect the institution’s core values.

Presiding Elder Yates’ contributions extend far beyond her role at Edward Waters University. She is an active member of various community organizations that promote education and social justice. She also mentors young clergy and advocates for equitable access to higher education, particularly in underserved communities.

Dr. A. Zachary Faison, President and CEO of Edward Waters University, expressed his pride in Yates’ induction, stating, “We are immensely proud of Presiding Elder Yates’ induction into the Morehouse Board of Preachers. Her spiritual leadership and commitment to student success embody the core values of EWU. This recognition highlights the caliber of leaders serving on our Board of Trustees and their impact beyond our institution.”

For those interested in experiencing the induction ceremony, a recording is available on the Morehouse College YouTube Channel. 

Stacey Abrams Engages Howard Students in Post-Election Discussion

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Stacey Abrams at Howard

On Nov. 20, Stacey Abrams, Howard University’s inaugural Ronald W. Walters Endowed Chair for Race and Black Politics, captivated an audience of students in Douglass Hall with a post-election dialogue centered on the future of political engagement following the 2024 presidential election.

Conversations That Matter

Abrams, known for her tireless advocacy and political acumen, encouraged students to process their feelings about the recent election while contemplating their roles in shaping U.S. democracy. “I am someone who believes in this country’s capacity for more, even though we’ve had some trouble manifesting what it should be,” she remarked. “The conversation I wanted to invite today is really about not just what happened with the election…but I also want to talk about what our opportunities are, what are our obligations, and what our presence in this country requires of us.”

During the event, student inquiries ranged from the impact of misinformation in politics to discussions on secularism and its implications for governance. Abrams warned against the rise of religious nationalism, highlighting attempts to intertwine Christianity with state identity. “It’s the intent to shift America from its constitutional responsibility of not having established religion to not only making Christianity the central pillar [of American government], but make evangelical Christianity the metric for which everything is judged,” she explained.

Addressing issues particularly relevant to Black women, Abrams acknowledged the emotional toll of political engagement and the exhaustion felt by those who supported Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign. “You can tag out for a minute, but you’re not allowed to leave the arena,” Abrams urged, emphasizing the necessity of solidarity within marginalized groups.

Sticking Together and Being Proactive

She also emphasized the importance of coalition-building and understanding shared objectives while respecting individual experiences, stating, “ Our conversation has to be that shared destiny requires shared investment.” 

Concluding her talk, Abrams inspired students to take action: “Your obligation after you leave this room is to pick one thing and spend the next year talking about it, writing a blog, doing a YouTube channel.  Your second job is to find an organization – big, small, be it virtual or in person – you need to commit an hour doing something for that organization. The third thing…is start going to city council meetings and county commission meetings.”

HBCU Launches First Accredited MSW Program in Trauma-Informed Care 

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Virginia State University proudly announces a historic milestone for its academic community: the Master of Social Work program received full accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. This remarkable achievement positions VSU as the first Historically Black College or University in the nation to offer a CSWE-accredited MSW program that specializes in trauma-informed care.

The accreditation, which is effective retroactively from Fall 2022  will remain valid through 2032, with the possibility for extension.

“This accreditation from the CSWE is a tremendous honor and a ground-breaking achievement for Virginia State University,” said Dr. Jimmie Fedrick, chair of the Department of Social Work. “IIt affirms that our students are earning an education that meets the highest standards. Upon graduating, they will emerge as innovative, connected, global leaders, fully prepared to make a meaningful impact in the field of social work.”

The MSW program at VSU, which welcomed its inaugural cohort of 10 students just over two years ago, has experienced significant growth. Currently, it enrolls 68 active students, and it projects to reach 100 students by the Summer and Spring of 2025.

The value of obtaining an MSW degree is underscored by its promising career prospects. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for MSW graduates in Virginia stands at $78,213, reflecting the demand for skilled professionals in the field.

VSU’s Master of Social Work program is distinguished by its focus on trauma-informed care, preparing graduates to effectively address the well-being of individuals who have experienced trauma. The program is commits to promoting human rights and social justice through community engagement, advocacy, and collaborative scientific inquiry that influences professional practice both locally and globally.

Prospective students can learn more about this program here. 

SWAC Investigating Jackson State’s Alleged Access to UAPB Practice Film

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jackson state vs uapb

The Southwestern Athletic Conference has announced the initiation of an investigation regarding allegations that Jackson State University had access to practice film from the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff before their matchup on Nov. 2. ESPN reported the revelation, which highlights serious concerns within the conference about competitive integrity.

How the Investigation Unfolded

The allegations surfaced on Oct. 31, just two days before the game. A UAPB player informed their coaching staff that a Jackson State player had told them that members of the JSU football team were watching UAPB’s practice footage at their facility. 

UAPB head coach Alonzo Hampton reviewed the team’s video-sharing software once he received this information. He discovered that footage had been accessed using the credentials of a former player who had been released from the team in the previous spring.

Sources indicate that the IP address linked to the unauthorized access was traced back to Clinton, Mississippi, neighboring Jackson.

While UAPB officials recognized the ongoing investigation, they refrained from public comments. The Jackson State athletic department also remained silent on the matter.

A Gray Area

The former walk-on whose account was implicated in this incident denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he did not share his login credentials with anyone associated with Jackson State. He expressed concern over his previous sharing of access information with UAPB teammates, suggesting a “loose culture” surrounding credential security within the team.

Notably, despite the serious nature of the allegations, it remains unclear how UAPB continued to provide access to accounts after players were released from the team.

Jackson State, who has had a strong season standing at 9-2 with a perfect 7-0 record in the SWAC, is bracing for the implications of this investigation as it prepares for the upcoming SWAC championship game following their recent victory over Alabama State. This situation unfolded against heightened tensions following a postgame altercation, resulting in significant fines and suspensions for both teams.

AAMU’s Carson Vinson Becomes First HBCU Player Invited to 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl

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Carson Vinson

Alabama A&M’s senior offensive tackle Carson Vinson was officially invited to participate in the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl. This announcement occurred Thursday morning following the Alabama A&M Bulldogs’ practice at Louis Crews Stadium.

Vinson, a standout left tackle from Morrisville, N.C., becomes the first player from an HBCU to receive an invitation to this prestigious event, which showcases the top college football talent in front of NFL scouts and executives. Former AAMU standout and Pro Football Hall of Famer John Stallworth, alongside Jim Nagy, the executive director of the Reese’s Senior Bowl presented Vinson with the invitation.

This recognition marks a significant milestone for the Bulldogs’ football program. Vinson is the first Senior Bowl invitee in over two decades. Kendrick Rogers was the last player invited back in 2001. Vinson joins an elite group as only the third Bulldog in the program’s history to receive the honor.

True to Alabama A&M’s Slogan

Reflecting on his journey, Vinson expressed pride in this accomplishment and emphasized its importance for the future of Alabama A&M football. “A&M’s slogan is “Start Here, Go Anywhere,” and that reigns true. It always reigns true,” he stated. “I’ve always been told that the [NFL], wherever you are, they’ll find you. I just want to show my teammates that if you work hard and you put in the work, they’ll find you. And you can have all your dreams here.”

John Stallworth echoed Vinson’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of the Senior Bowl in shaping careers. “I am excited about the opportunity it presents for (Vinson) now to do that same thing,” said Stallworth. “To go down and show his wares on a national stage.”

The 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl is set to take place on Feb. 1, 2025, at Hancock-Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. Vinson’s historical invitation not only shines a spotlight on his personal achievements but also raises the profile of HBCU athletes in college football.

Parents of Tuskegee Shooting Victim File Lawsuit Against University and Security Firms

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The tragic aftermath of a mass shooting during Homecoming weekend at Tuskegee University continues to unfold, as the parents of La’Tavion Johnson, the 18-year-old who was killed in the incident, have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the university. 

The lawsuit is not only directed at Tuskegee University but also targets two security companies, International Protection Investigation Agency LLC and JLL Americas Inc., along with former Tuskegee University Police Chief Terrance Calloway and a man who has been arrested, according to a report by WSFA news. 

The violence erupted on campus, resulting in La’Tavion’s death and injuries to 16 others. To date, the only arrests made are for charges related to illegal machine gun conversion devices, which do not pertain to the actual act of shooting. 

In the lawsuit, the Johnsons claim that Myrick, who claims he fired his gun but did not hit anyone, is responsible for their son’s death.

A significant point raised in the lawsuit highlights alleged negligence on the part of Chief Calloway, who reportedly had prior knowledge of multiple violent incidents on campus, including previous gun discharges and threats. Calloway was subsequently terminated from his position following the tragic events of that night.

HBCU Honoring Distinguished Agriculture Leader with Center Naming

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Dr. Jesse Harness Sr.

Alcorn State University will honor one of its distinguished alums, Dr. Jesse Harness Sr., by naming its Agriculture and Extension Center after him in a ceremony scheduled for Friday, Nov. 22, at 10 a.m. The event will take place on the university’s Lorman campus and celebrate Dr. Harness’s remarkable contributions to agricultural education and community development.

Dr. Harness, an Alcorn State University’s Class of 1967 graduate, has dedicated over three decades to improving agricultural practices and enhancing community engagement throughout Mississippi. He was born in Magnolia, Mississippi, and began his career as a county agent with Mississippi State University after graduating. His journey brought him back to Alcorn, where he held various roles, including horticulture specialist, coordinator for Civil Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity, associate division director for administration, and administrator for the university’s Cooperative Extension Program.

“It gives me great pleasure to honor Dr. Jesse Harness, Sr., for his many contributions to the field of agriculture,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president of Alcorn State University. “He has been a transformative leader who has made a significant impact within Mississippi and beyond through agricultural education and community advancement.”

A Lifelong Impact

Dr. Harness has accumulated numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career, highlighting his exceptional dedication and service. He was inducted into the George Washington Carver Hall of Fame in 2005, recognized in the Alcorn State University Hall of Honors in 2011, and received the prestigious 1890 University Career Exemplar Award in 2015.

Dr. Harness’s influence extends beyond the local community. As chairman of the National Commission on Small Farms, he has actively participated in national agricultural discussions and served on various advisory committees focused on agricultural development and rural communities.

Academically, Dr. Harness holds a Bachelor of Science in agriculture education from Alcorn State University, a Master of Arts in vegetable crops and extension education from the University of Florida, and a Doctor of Philosophy in horticulture and extension education from Louisiana State University. Additionally, he possesses a vocational agriculture teaching certificate and a certification of completion in Civil Rights and EEO training.

Beyond his professional commitments, Dr. Harness has demonstrated a steadfast devotion to community service, taking on leadership roles in numerous civic, social, and religious organizations. His contributions include serving as president of the Jefferson County School Board and president of the Alcorn State University Jefferson County Alumni Chapter.

Manhattan University to Host the HBCU Harlem Renaissance

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This Saturday, the vibrant spirit of Historically Black Colleges and Universities will be alive at Manhattan University as they host the 4th Annual Harlem Renaissance Classic. The event, set to take place at Draddy Gymnasium in Riverdale, promises an exciting day filled with basketball, educational opportunities, and cultural celebrations for alumni and future HBCU graduates residing in the New York tri-state area.

The classic will feature thrilling matchups between the men’s basketball teams of Division II Clark Atlanta University and Lincoln University. The day kicks off at 1 p.m. when Clark Atlanta takes on Philadelphia’s Holy Family University, followed by Lincoln University’s game against Molloy University from Rockville Centre, Long Island, at 3 p.m. Fans can arrive early, as doors to Draddy Gymnasium will open at noon.

While the games form the centerpiece of this much-anticipated event, attendees can expect a robust lineup of activities organized by Manhattan University’s Black Student Union. The event will offer a variety of educational, health, musical, and social engagements designed to enrich the experience for all participants. This includes college recruitment sessions, discussions on scholarship opportunities, tutoring services, and representatives from Divine Nine Greek organizations. Additionally, attendees can participate in interactive games, receive mental health counseling, and enjoy performances by cheerleaders and local bands.

The Harlem Renaissance Classic is spearheaded by the non-profit organization Bridging Structural Holes, Inc., which aims to bridge gaps within communities and foster inclusion and diversity. The organization’s mission reflects its vision to “shrink the racial divide and create a platform that promotes new levels of inclusion, diversity, equity and acceptance in spaces previously unattainable for marginalized, underserved groups.” 

This event not only highlights the competitive spirit of HBCU athletics but also serves as a critical platform for community engagement, empowerment, and celebration of the rich cultural heritage.

HBCU Launches Inaugural Education Leadership Fellowship Program

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Ayana McLemore

Texas Southern University has proudly rolled out its inaugural Education Leadership Fellowship Program, a groundbreaking initiative to nurture the next generation of educational leaders. Established under the leadership of Board of Regents Chairman Brandon L. Simmons, this program seeks to empower recent graduates by immersing them in crucial policy development and innovative projects that will shape the future of TSU and beyond.

Appointed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Chairman Simmons has advocated for educational reform and progress since taking office as the 23rd Chairman in October 2023. 

“Our Board of Regents is laser-focused on delivering education that meets the needs of students and employers so that our graduates may flourish in the thriving Texas economy,” Simmons stated. “In establishing this program, we are seeking to hire recent degree recipients who share our passion for an outcomes-based approach to higher education. For graduates interested in careers in education law and policy in an era of innovation and reform, we hope this program will provide the invaluable experience gained while assisting the university with key initiatives that benefit student outcomes.”

The Inaugural Fellowship Scholars

Joseph Johnson
Joseph Johnson
Ayana McLemore
Ayana McLemore

The inaugural cohort of the Education Leadership Fellowship Program features two individuals: Joseph Johnson and Ayana McLemore. 

Joseph Johnson is a proud graduate of TSU’s Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs in 2021. At TSU, he served as the 2020-21 Student Regent and was Chairman of the Undergraduate Student Advisory Council. His professional background spans business development, legal administration, and marketing, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit as a business co-founder.

Ayana McLemore, a 2023 Prairie View A&M University graduate, graduated with dual Political Science and Communications degrees. She demonstrated her leadership capabilities and commitment to her peers as Senior Class President. She has a background in education and legal administration background.

Throughout their year-long term, the fellows will engage in four core functions: collaboration with stakeholders, program development and evaluation, board meeting preparation, and data collection and reporting.

In addition to these responsibilities, the fellows will contribute to special projects and conduct in-depth research on current trends and emerging issues in education policy.

Applications for the second cohort of the Education Leadership Fellowship Program will open on Jan. 6, 2025, and close on March 7, 2025. This opportunity is not limited to TSU graduates; non-TSU alums are encouraged to apply.

‘Grandfather of Black Basketball’ Celebrated at HBCU Book Event

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As part of Homecoming Week at the University of the District of Columbia, an inspiring evening unfolded on Nov. 14, 2024, as Edwin Bancroft Henderson II gathered with community members to celebrate the legacy of his grandfather, E.B. Henderson—an iconic figure in sports and civil rights. The event, hosted by UDC’s College of Arts & Sciences, centered around Henderson II’s book, “The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E.B. Henderson,” paying tribute to a trailblazer whose remarkable contributions helped shape the landscape of athletics for African Americans.

E.B. Henderson (center) team captain, #9
E.B. Henderson (center) team captain, #9 (Courtesy: The Frederick Douglass Museum and Cultural Center)

E.B. Henderson, an alumnus of Miner Teachers College—one of UDC’s predecessor institutions—was a pioneering force in the first half of the 20th century. He dedicated his life to opening doors for Black athletes in a segregated America. Among his many groundbreaking achievements, he became the first African American certified to teach physical education in the United States. He also founded the Eastern Board of Officials, an organization that aimed to enhance fairness and professionalism within sports officiating.

A League of Their Own

Despite facing discrimination from the Amateur Athletic Union, Henderson’s perseverance led him to establish the Interscholastic Athletic Association, the first African American athletic league. “When he tried to get his team into the AAU, they told him that his teams would not be able to play against the white teams because of segregation,” Henderson II recounted. “They encouraged him to start his own league, so he did.”

Back, L-R: Chief Advancement Officer Richard Lucas, College of Arts and Sciences Acting Dean Jeffery Fleming, University Archivist Chris Anglim. Front: Edwin B. Henderson II
Back, L-R: Chief Advancement Officer Richard Lucas, College of Arts and Sciences Acting Dean Jeffery Fleming, University Archivist Chris Anglim. Front: Edwin B. Henderson II

The book event highlighted the elder Henderson’s vital contributions to civil rights beyond just sports. A strong advocate for racial equity, he organized the first rural branch of the NAACP in Falls Church, Virginia, and documented the achievements of Black athletes through books, including “The Negro in Sports” and “The Black Athlete: Emergence and Arrival.”

“Sports were not separate from the fight for equality, and E.B. Henderson was at the forefront of that fight. My grandfather understood that achieving equity on the court was part of a larger struggle for equity everywhere. He knew that to be a leader in sports was to also be a leader in civil rights,” Henderson II emphasized.

In recognition of his monumental impact, E.B. Henderson was posthumously inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. UDC continues to honor his legacy through the E.B. Henderson Sports Complex and a life-size statue.