“Married to Medicine” Star to Give HBCU Ceremony Keynote Address

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Dr. Jackie Walters

Elizabeth City State University is gearing up for its 179th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, Dec.14, at 9 a.m. in the Robert L. Vaughan Center. This year, the university will honor a projected graduating class of 243 students, with the esteemed Dr. Jackie Walters, renowned OB-GYN and cast member of Bravo’s “Married to Medicine,” serving as the keynote speaker.

Dr. Walters, has dedicated over two decades to obstetrics and gynecology and is recognized as a leader in women’s health care. She provides specialized care to those facing complex medical challenges. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, she shares her personal journey to inspire and empower women to prioritize their health and well-being.

In addition to her medical expertise, Dr. Walters is an accomplished entrepreneur and author. She co-founded WOW Medi Spa and launched Skin Rhythm™, a skincare line aimed at enhancing women’s confidence and health. Her book, “The Queen V,” addresses critical women’s health issues and reflects her commitment to advocacy in this area. Through her role on “Married to Medicine,” she leveraged her platform to raise awareness about vital health topics, reaching millions with her message of authenticity and empowerment.

The commencement ceremony will also recognize outstanding graduates through its traditions, including the Bearer of the Mace and Bearer of the Shield awards. The Bearer of the Mace honors the student entering ECSU as a first-time freshman with the highest cumulative GPA, while the Bearer of the Shield recognizes the top transfer student based on the same criterion.

ECSU alumnus Dr. Steven D. Carter, Class of 2009, sponsored this year’s commencement speaker. Carter has demonstrated unwavering support for his alma mater through his various ventures, including SD Carter Enterprises, Inc.

HBCU Cancer Research Center Awards $120K to Emerging Investigators

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Alabama State University is making strides in cancer research, with the award of 120,000 to three junior investigators through its newly established Cancer Research Center. This initiative aims to bolster ASU’s research capabilities in cancer studies.

“CRC supports three rising junior investigators each year to build and expand the research capacity in cancer research at ASU,” stated Dr. Manoj K. Mishra, director of the CRC and Freshman Biology Program. “CRC supports three rising junior investigators each year to build and expand the research capacity in cancer research at ASU.”

The funding stems from a significant $2.7 million grant awarded to the CRC by the American Cancer Society. A key focus of this grant is to facilitate pilot projects and clinical scientist development grants for junior faculty interested in advancing cancer research at the university. “It is important for me to see that the CRC is in a position to support future cancer researchers that will ultimately increase the cancer research workforce at our campus,” added Dr. Mishra, who serves as the principal investigator for this initiative.

The Junior Investigators

The selected junior investigators for the 2024-2025 academic year are pioneering innovative research that addresses critical aspects of cancer:

Mohammad Saleem, Ph.D.

Dr. Saleem, assistant professor of microbiology, will lead a project titled “Exploring Microbial-Metabolite Signatures to Trace the Development and Control of Colorectal Cancer Using Multi-Omics Approaches.”

Dawna Nelson

Dr. Nelson, associate professor of social work, will investigate “A Pilot Study of a Train-the-Trainer Intervention to Address Prostate Cancer Screening Knowledge and Medical Mistrust among Black Men via Community-Based Barbershops.”

Sanket Kanekar, Ph.D

Dr. Kanekar, assistant professor of economics, will explore “Investigating the relationship between Socio-Economic Factors, Cancer Screening Rates, and Cancer Prevalence in Underserved Screening.”

In addition to supporting faculty research, the CRC aids master’s students pursuing cancer research. The program provides stipends and tuition support for up to two years.

LeMoyne-Owen College Unveils First-Ever Mascot, Walker The Magician

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Lemoyne-Owen College Walker The Magician

LeMoyne-Owen College is experiencing a transformative moment in its history. The college recently debuted its first-ever mascot, Walker The Magician, during the college’s 2024 Homecoming Weekend. This historic occasion took place on Oct. 26th, between the women’s and men’s basketball games, as part of a celebration honoring the institution’s legacy and future.

This year’s Homecoming theme, “Not Like Us,” captures LOC’s distinctiveness, resilience, and commitment to cultivating excellence in education. Walker The Magician is named after Walker Avenue, the location of this 5th oldest Historically Black College and University in the nation. His name symbolizes the college’s rich history and deep community roots in South Memphis.

Embodying The Spirit of LOC

As LOC embarks on this exciting new chapter, Walker the Magician stands as a beacon of strength, pride, and the spirit of the HBCU. The mascot promises that the magic of LeMoyne-Owen will unite Magicians for generations to come and continue to resonate beyond the Memphis community. 

“LeMoyne-Owen is often overlooked in conversations about HBCUs, but with a 15% increase in enrollment this year, we are on the cusp of a resurgence,” stated LOC President Dr. Christopher B. Davis. “Walker the Magician symbolizes the magic and transformation happening within our institution, and with this mascot, we’re sending a message: LeMoyne-Owen is ready to lead. We are unlike any other.”

Homecoming Weekend brought together current students, alumni, and the local community, reinforcing the bond among college supporters. With Walker The Magician now at the forefront, LeMoyne-Owen College is poised to continue its legacy while inspiring future generations to embrace the power of education and cultural pride.

Miles College Hosts Historic NCAA Division II Playoff Game

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Miles College Football

In a momentous achievement for Miles College, the Golden Bears have earned the right to host their first-ever game in the NCAA Division II football tournament. This milestone is a significant chapter in the school’s football history, as they face Carson-Newman (9-2) in the Super Region 2 playoffs opening round on Saturday at Sloan-Alumni Stadium.

Golden Bears’ Latest Victory

The Golden Bears boast an impressive 9-2 record this season. They secured their playoff spot following a 53-25 victory over Clark Atlanta, clinching the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship. With this triumph, Miles ascended to No. 4 in the final regional rankings—an impressive jump of two spots from the previous week. The win claimed their first SIAC title since 2019, the last year they appeared in the Division II playoffs. This marks only the third playoff appearance in the program’s history, with their first showing in 2012.

Miles College has been on an exceptional winning streak, achieving nine consecutive victories—representing the longest such streak in modern history (since 1950). Additionally, they have tied the school record for the most wins in a single season, previously set in 2019. The team’s strong defense led to its success, which ranks among Division II’s best. They lead the nation in turnovers forced (33) and turnover margin (plus-21), currently sitting second in interceptions (23) and sacks (40). The Golden Bears are also tied for fourth in defensive touchdowns (5) and eighth in tackles for loss (89).

Notably, in their latest victory over Clark Atlanta, the Golden Bears’ defense shined by forcing eight turnovers. This included six interceptions and a fumble return for a touchdown. Sophomore Lashon Young leads the nation in interceptions, recording his eighth pick of the season against the Panthers.

Turning The Program Around

Head coach Sam Shade has been pivotal in the program’s turnaround. After a challenging 1-9 debut season in 2022, he has guided the team to an impressive 16-5 record over the past two seasons. His efforts did not go unnoticed; he was recently named the SIAC Coach of the Year, reflecting the Golden Bears’ significant progress under his leadership.

HBCU Weekly Football Scoreboard: Week 12

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Jackson State v. Alabama State

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.

Kentucky St. Thorobreds 44, Shorter Hawks 28

Alabama A&M Bulldogs 22, Grambling Tigers 17

N.C. Central Eagles 26, Howard Bison 3

Richmond Spiders 24, Hampton Pirates 21

Towson Tigers 31, N.C. A&T Aggies 13

Miles Golden Bears 53, Clark Atlanta Panthers 25

Mississippi Val. Delta Devils 24, Florida A&M Rattlers 21

Tennessee St. Tigers 23, Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs 20

Norfolk St. Spartans 38, Delaware St. Hornets 19

Alcorn Braves 26, Prairie View Panthers 13

Jackson St. Tigers 16, Alabama St. Hornets 10

Texas Southern Tigers 17, Bethune-Cookman Wildcats 14

Virginia Union Panthers 17, Virginia St. Trojans 13

South Carolina St. Bulldogs 54, Morgan St. Bears 7

Kentucky State University Forges RN-to-BSN Partnership  

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In a significant move for nursing education,  Kentucky State University and Elizabethtown Community and Technical College have officially announced a new partnership aimed at providing a streamlined pathway for registered nurses to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The schools unveiled the partnership at a signing ceremony.

“The RN-to-BSN pathway with Kentucky State University is a great opportunity to continue supporting ECTC nursing graduates as they advance their educations and careers,” said ECTC President Dr. Juston Pate. “Not only does this partnership increase affordability, acces, and resources for BSN students, it develops a critical future workforce for our region.”

The Power Of Two

Under this new initiative, students will enroll at KSU but receive services directly on ECTC’s Elizabethtown campus. They will also have full access to ECTC’s nursing labs and other vital student services.

KSU President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing its significance for the healthcare sector. “We are very excited to embark on this new partnership with ECTC to train the next generation of nurses to serve the Commonwealth. Creating a pathway for ECTC nursing graduates to seamlessly transfer into KSU’s BSN program is only just the beginning,” he stated.

Helping To Cover The Costs

This collaboration allows ECTC nursing program graduates to transition smoothly into KSU’s BSN program while benefiting from substantial on-campus support at ECTC. One of the standout features of this partnership is the ECTC-2-KSU Pathway Scholarship, which offers a tuition-free opportunity for students who qualify for federal Pell grants, making higher education more accessible for aspiring nurses.

The ECTC-2-KSU Pathway Scholarship is a renewable, last-dollar scholarship that covers tuition for fall and spring semesters after federal and state aid and external awards have been applied. To qualify for this scholarship, students must meet certain criteria, including being Pell-eligible and enrolling in a minimum of six credit hours each term while pursuing their BSN degree.

As KSU joins the ECTC Robbins University Center—a hub that allows four-year colleges and universities to offer high-demand bachelor’s and master’s degrees locally—this partnership marks a vital expansion of educational opportunities for nursing students in the region. The Robbins University Center is named in honor of Dr. Robert and Rita Robbins of Elizabethtown, who contributed a historic $1 million donation to ECTC in 2018.

Classes for the new RN-to-BSN program will commence on Jan. 13 and March 17, 2025. 

Attorney Damon Elmore Keynotes at HBCU Alma Mater

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Savannah State University was excited to welcome Attorney Damon Elmore, a proud alumnus of the Class of 1993, back to campus this week as he was the keynote speaker for the university’s 134th Founders Day Observance. The event took place on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, in the New Student Union Ballrooms and was live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.

Damon Elmore pictured.
Photo Credit: Damon Elmore/LinkedIn

Attorney Elmore serves as the executive director of the State Bar of Georgia, overseeing operations for over 55,000 members. His appointment in October 2020 followed a distinguished career that included significant roles such as partner at Nowell Sparks, LLC, and vice president of human resources at Genuine Parts Company. Elmore earned his Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law and made substantial contributions throughout his professional journey, showcasing leadership and commitment to community service.

“Mr. Elmore’s notable career, commitment to community, and dedication to his alma mater exemplify the kind of graduate that would have made the founders proud,” said Interim President Cynthia Robinson Alexander.

Founders Day is a special occasion celebrating Savannah State’s rich history and mission to provide high-quality education. 

“As a proud graduate of Savannah State, it is an honor and meaningful moment to return home as the speaker for this year’s Founder’s Day,” said Elmore. “This university has always been more than an institution to my family and me. It is a community grounded in excellence, service, and resilience. I am excited to come full circle and renew my commitment to the university that has played such a significant role in shaping who I am today.”

During the observance, notable awards were presented, including the Richard R. Wright Award of Excellence and the Cyrus G. Wiley Distinguished Alumni Award, celebrating individuals who had made significant contributions in various sectors.

HBCU Professor Debuts Original Play After Tyler Perry Role

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South Carolina State University Professor of Drama Ursula O. Robinson

South Carolina State University’s drama professor, Ursula O. Robinson, is once again making waves in the entertainment industry. Following her appearance in Tyler Perry’s Netflix “Beauty in Black,” Robinson is set to showcase her talents as a playwright with the upcoming performance of her original play, “Thirsty,” by SC State’s Henderson-Davis Players at the Henderson-Davis Theatre.

Thirsty Flyer

Robinson’s journey began at age six in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she first found her passion for acting while Christmas caroling with family. Inspired by a creative aunt, she introduced a Black nativity scene that became a cherished tradition. Over the years, this passion deepened, fueled by her admiration for actors like C. Thomas Howell from “The Outsiders.”

Her recent roles, including a scene-stealing performance in Perry’s “Divorce in the Black,” garnered significant national attention. Reflecting on her experiences, Robinson noted, “Knowing your director and the kind of work this film is goes a long way in helping you shape characterization.”

Beyond her achievements as an actress and writer, Robinson thrives as an educator and mentor at SC State. Since joining the faculty after teaching at North Carolina A&T, she has dedicated herself to nurturing young talent, bringing students along to premieres, and sharing invaluable on-set insights. Robinson recently hosted a lyceum to encourage youth to pursue their passions.

“Thirsty,” which runs from Nov. 14 to 17, marks another milestone in Robinson’s career. 

About The Play

A powerful story of love, addiction, and thirst. Follow Aneesha, a college freshman drawn into a dangerous love triangle with Trouble, a charismatic but troubled drug dealer. In a world where broken families and generational pain collide, desire quickly becomes deadly. Don’t miss this intense journey in the depths of human need and the steep price of thirst. Are you THIRSTY?

PVAMU Addressing Teacher Shortage in Under-Resourced Schools

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In a bold move to enhance the quality of education in under-resourced schools, Prairie View A&M University is launching pantherTERM, the Panther Teacher Education Residency Model. This innovative program aims not only to improve the educational landscape but also to diversify the teaching workforce, addressing a pressing need in classrooms across the nation.

Transformative Funding

Funded by a generous $3.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence Program, pantherTERM is designed to expand and elevate PVAMU’s existing teacher residency offerings. The initiative will prepare 100 aspiring educators—80 undergraduate and 20 graduate students—to enter classrooms that are in dire need of skilled teachers. There will be a special focus on schools serving underserved communities.

Dr. Britine Perkins, an assistant professor in PVAMU’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction, was instrumental in securing the pivotal funding alongside Dr. Valerie Hill-Jackson from Texas A&M University. Their collaborative efforts highlight the program’s dual goals of increasing teacher diversity and addressing the significant teacher shortages faced by many school districts.

“We’re excited; the Hawkins grant is the second award in as many years,” said Dr. Perkins. “Being able to address one of my passion areas of removing major barriers to increasing the teacher pipeline, such as finances, makes this so meaningful for me.”

A Comprehensive Approach

The pantherTERM program will integrate rigorous classroom training with practical, hands-on teaching experiences, ensuring that participants develop the necessary skills to thrive in educational environments. The program will emphasize mentorship and the implementation of evidence-based practices. It aims to produce a new generation of educators who are not only prepared but inspired to make a lasting impact on their students’ lives.

“WRGCOE’s commitment to teamwork and innovation catapults them as the go-to preparation program for teacher residencies in Texas,” Dr. Hill-Jackson noted. “I am a firm believer that cross-institution collaboration works.”

Historically, HBCUs like PVAMU play a crucial role in preparing Black educators, accounting for nearly 50% of all Black teachers in the United States. Through pantherTERM, PVAMU is reaffirming its dedication to this legacy while aiming to meet the urgent demand for qualified educators in schools that need them most.

HBCU Student Lil JSean Shines on Netflix’s Music Competition

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Lil JSean pictured

In hip-hop culture, where talent often goes hand in hand with perseverance, Lil JSean, a Texas Southern University student, is stepping into the limelight as a contestant on Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow. This groundbreaking music competition, hosted by artists Cardi B, Chance the Rapper, and TI, showcases undiscovered hip-hop talent.

On the show, contestants journey through auditions, challenges, and performances, culminating in selecting one winner, who receives a $250,000 cash prize and the opportunity to launch their music career.

The Journey to Netflix

Lil JSean’s path to “Rhythm + Flow” came by chance. A casting call posted by a Houston radio host caught his eye, prompting him to apply without knowing the show’s name or format. After a rigorous five-month casting process filled with auditions and background checks, Lil JSean received the life-changing news that he would be part of the competition. “Me, my mom and sisters were excited,” he recalled.

He found his musical voice in his teenage years, freestyling over beats using GarageBand on a family computer.  The tragic loss of his older brother, Dougie, turned his hobby into something more serious. “He would tell me keep going, bro. Your music is hard, so when he passed away in a motorcycle accident, his words stuck with me, and I never gave up,” he shared. Influenced by legendary figures from the 90s rap era, such as Tupac, Biggie, and Nas, Lil JSean’s sound is both nostalgic and refreshing.

The Message Behind the Music

As an HBCU student, Lil JSean aims to embody the essence of his culture through his music. “I wanted to be transparent about who I actually am—a young Black male that loves to learn, that loves to read, loves to take care of my body and pays attention to what I’m eating,” he said. His holistic approach is evident not only in his lyrics but also in his vegan diet lifestyle.

Competing on “Rhythm + Flow” hasn’t been without its challenges. Maintaining focus and memorizing lyrics are crucial, but Lil JSean views these hurdles as opportunities for growth. “Participating in the show gave me a lot of confidence because I was recognized out of tens of thousands of applicants,” he noted. “It goes to show if you are committed to self-growth, you will get recognized eventually.”

Through his performances, Lil JSean hopes to convey a powerful message: “It’s cool to be yourself and that you don’t have to ever fit in.” His authenticity will resonate with viewers and within the broader HBCU community, where discussions around social issues are increasingly vital. “Music has a huge impact on shaping conversations around social issues because, to a certain degree, the public looks to entertainers as somewhat of a voice for them,” he explained.

Looking ahead, Lil JSean has ambitions beyond music, and winning the cash prize could help expedite his goals. He plans to open a vegan restaurant and establish mental health facilities to support the African American community. As he continues his journey on “Rhythm + Flow,” this TSU student aims for musical success and strives to uplift and educate others in the industry. 

Keep an eye on Lil JSean—this is just the beginning of his incredible story. 

HBCU Launches Nuclear Engineering Program with $5M Grant

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Morgan State Nuclear Engineering Program

The National Nuclear Security Administration has awarded Morgan State University a $5 million grant to establish a nuclear engineering program to increase minority representation in the nuclear security workforce. This initiative, known as the Scholarly Partnership in Nuclear Engineering, aims to prepare a diverse group of underrepresented students for successful careers in the rapidly evolving field of nuclear engineering over the next five years.

The Spine Project 

The SPINE project will create innovative curricula, enhance research opportunities, and promote mentorship programs that equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills. By fostering partnerships between universities and industry leaders, the initiative seeks to significantly increase the number of graduates and postdoctoral students entering the nuclear engineering sector.

“I am proud that Morgan has been selected as a partner institution to launch this program, which aims to develop the next generation of scientists,” said Oscar Barton, Jr., Ph.D., dean of the Clarence M. Mitchell, Jr. School of Engineering. “This new initiative not only enhances their educational experience but also opens up a myriad of possibilities for their future careers, allowing them to explore paths they may not have had the opportunity to consider otherwise.”

Despite nuclear engineering’s critical role in national security and public health, minority representation in the field remains alarmingly low. Current demographic data reveals that approximately 73% of the U.S. nuclear engineering workforce is white, with only 7% identifying as Black or African American. The SPINE program addresses this imbalance by creating pathways for underrepresented groups to enter the field, thus contributing to a more equitable scientific community.

Through hands-on training, collaborative projects, and outreach efforts aimed at K-12 schools and community colleges, the SPINE program seeks to equip students with the skills to tackle nuclear security challenges and promote innovation in the field.

In addition to workforce development, the grant will support research on high-performance, low-cost, lead-free perovskite-based nuclear sensors designed to detect nuclear radiation. These new sensor designs aim to reduce environmental and health risks associated with traditional lead-based models while maintaining high sensitivity levels. The funding will also establish a new laboratory at Morgan State for training and research, fostering collaboration with the Department of Energy and the NNSA.

United for Diversity

Other participating institutions in the SPINE initiative include Navajo Technical University, the University of Puerto Rico at Rio Piedras, Idaho National Laboratory, and Savannah River National Laboratory.

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HBCU Professor Appointed President of the Virgin Islands State Nurses Association

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Dr. Lettersome swearing in.

The University of the Virgin Islands is proud to announce that Dr. Suzette Lettsome, an assistant professor in UVI’s School of Nursing and a passionate advocate for community health, has been appointed as the new President of the Virgin Islands State Nurses Association, an affiliate of the American Nurses Association. This prestigious role reflects Dr. Lettsome’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the nursing profession and promoting the health and well-being of the Virgin Islands community.

Originally from St. Thomas, Dr. Lettsome is an accomplished alumna of UVI, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She further honed her expertise with a Master of Science in Public Health Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, followed by a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Case Western Reserve University in Ohio. Dr. Lettsome deeply understands the local healthcare landscape. She has nearly a decade of experience in community health nursing. Three of those years include working as as a registered nurse at Schneider Regional Medical Center on St. Thomas.

Returning to UVI

Since joining UVI in 2007, she has served as an assistant professor and contributed to research as a research assistant at UVI’s Caribbean Exploratory Research Center. Her professional affiliations include the Caribbean Nursing Association and the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness.

 “As a nurse, it is an expectation and obligation to belong and actively participate in professional nursing associations. As professors, we are grooming our students and preparing them to enter the professional world,” noted Dr. Letsome.

Dr. Lettsome envisions bringing nurses across various sectors—schools, clinics, and private practices—together under the VISNA umbrella to foster a supportive and collaborative environment. “In my role as president, I aim to unite nurses to advocate for one another, encourage ongoing education, and collectively elevate the nursing profession to have a deeper impact on the health and wellness of our community,” she stated.

Dr. Lettsome highlighted the importance of unity within the Virgin Islands nursing community, “We have nurses that have wonderful skills and do exceptional things in the Territory, but they do it alone. We want to be there to support them, and as an association, we want to give to the body of knowledge to better the quality of nursing care.”

Under her leadership, VISNA will continue to represent the Virgin Islands on regional and national stages. 

HBCU Rehabilitation Project Funded by $750K from National Park Service

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Wilberforce University will soon embark on a significant rehabilitation project to revitalize three key buildings within its academic complex. With a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Fund, the initiative will enhance accessibility and ensure compliance with ADA standards in the Stokes, King, and Walker buildings.

After months of meticulous planning and contractor selection, Wilberforce will begin work with Miami Valley Works, led by Eric Swan, and CED Architects, represented by Craig Dillon. 

A Project to Make Campus More Accessible

The rehabilitation project will introduce several vital upgrades to enhance accessibility for students and faculty. Planned improvements include the installation of new elevators, exterior ramps, upgraded entrance doors, restroom enhancements, and stairlifts. Additionally, the project will connect two currently separate buildings and construct facilities for the university’s music program.

“We are excited about finally moving forward with this project,” said Dr. Kenneth E. Jones, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff at Wilberforce. “It took some time to identify contractors who met federal requisites. However, Wilberforce was committed to seeing this project through to completion, and we are eager to get started.”

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), who announced the grant last year, emphasized the vital role that Historically Black Colleges and Universities play in preserving American history, stating, “By working with our National Park Service to honor key sites at HBCUs, we are preserving the legacy of these institutions. This investment at Wilberforce University gives future generations of Ohioans the opportunity to learn about our state’s proud history.”

Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, President of Wilberforce, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact on the university community and local environment. “This project not only enhances the Wilberforce community by preserving our historic campus but also significantly enhances the value of the Wilberforce community,” he remarked. “Further, by improving accessibility and modernizing our facilities, we are creating a more inclusive and dynamic environment for our students to thrive.”

The rehabilitation project is expected to be completed in 2025.

Southern University’s Social Work Program Celebrates 50 Years of Accredited Impact

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This year marks a significant milestone for the Millie M. Charles School of Social Work at Southern University at New Orleans. The school proudly celebrates 50 years of accreditation for its Bachelor of Social Work program from the Council on Social Work Education. Since its inception in 1974, the program has committed to fostering social justice and equity. It has prepared generations of students to respond to the complex needs of their communities.

The journey of SUNO’s BSW program commenced in 1965 as a minor in the Sociology Department. Recognizing the growing demand for specialized education in social welfare, the university established a dedicated social welfare department in 1972, which laid the groundwork for the BSW program. A mere two years later, the program received its initial accreditation.

The establishment of the BSW program was not only a response to educational needs but also a societal necessity. In 1974, the federal government filed a lawsuit against Louisiana for maintaining a racially segregated higher education system, violating civil rights laws. This resulted in a Consent Decree in 1981. The settlement mandated the development of a Master of Social Work program at SUNO to enhance racial diversity across Louisiana’s public universities.

Following this directive, the School of Social Work was formally established in July 1982, with Millie M. Charles appointed as its founding dean. The MSW program welcomed its first cohort in 1983, furthering its mission to build a diverse student body that reflects the state’s demographics.

Today, SUNO’s social work programs continue to evolve, addressing critical workforce demands in child and family services, health and mental health, and mid-level management. With an increasing shift of social services from federal oversight to state and local governance, SUNO graduates are uniquely poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

POW-MIA Chair of Honor Dedicated at Delaware State University

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Members of the DSU U.S. Army ROTC pose at the POW-MIA “Chair of Honor” along with SFC Chareedra Othman, Andre Swegert, DSU President Tony Allen, and Col. (ret.) Debbie Harrington. The Chair of Honor has been permanently installed in the northwest corner on the first floor of the Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building.

In a ceremony on Veterans Day, Delaware State University unveiled the “POW/MIA Chair of Honor” in tribute to American servicemen and women who have been prisoners of war or are missing in action. This permanent monument in the first-floor northwest corner of the Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who served.

The dedication of the POW/MIA Chair of Honor is part of a broader initiative across Delaware, which has established 68 such chairs statewide to honor veterans from various conflicts, including World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq. A plaque at the foot of the chair commemorates the courage of those who served and emphasizes the importance of remembering their stories.

Andre Swygert, an Air Force veteran, author, and retired U.S. Army Colonel Debbie Harrington, who currently serves as the first Vice Chair of DSU’s Board of Trustees, delivered keynote speeches. 

“I’m proud to be an American for many reasons. But one is that we stand alone in the world when it comes to identifying, retrieving, and honoring our nation’s war dead,” said Swygert. He noted that over 81,900 U.S. personnel remain unaccounted for, a number that includes nearly 78,000 from World War I and 72,000 from World War II, with significant figures also from the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

Remembering a DSU Prisoner of War

During the ceremony, Swygert shared the heartbreaking story of Marine Corps Capt. Larry Potts, a Smyrna native and a 1969 graduate of then-Delaware State College. Capt. Potts was involved in a mission to rescue a downed navigator during the Vietnam War when his aircraft was shot down. Despite efforts, he was unable to be rescued and was reported captured, ultimately dying in Quang Binh prison. His story highlights the personal sacrifices endured by veterans and their families.

Colonel Harrington concluded the ceremony with a powerful message: “With this ceremony, we remember and honor the sacrifices made, the lives lost, the families separated, the pain experienced, and the suffering endured. We can never really fully repay such an altruistic debt, but we can remember to remember.”

This dedication aligns with DSU’s initiative titled “Their Stories: Honoring Service, Sacrifice, and Spirit at Delaware State University,” which aims to celebrate veterans’ unique experiences and contributions within the DSU community, including faculty, students, and dependents.

HBCU Chancellor Emeritus Honored with Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award

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In a ceremony held at the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities Annual Meeting, Harold L. Martin Sr., Chancellor Emeritus of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, received the prestigious Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor is bestowed on individuals whose careers reflect an unwavering commitment to the mission and service of public and land-grant universities.

“We’re delighted to recognize Harold Martin with the Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award,,” stated APLU President Mark Becker. “Throughout his career, he not only led North Carolina A&T State University to new heights, but also championed and strengthened the public universities and HBCUs through his service on behalf of the community.”

Martin’s Impact on NC A&T

Dr. Martin’s tenure at NC A&T was marked by significant advancements in enrollment, research, and educational quality. Under his guidance from 2009 to 2024, the university became the largest HBCU in the nation in 2014. It has also continued to lead in producing African American graduates in STEM fields. Enrollment surged from 10,613 to an impressive 13,885 students by 2023.

Beyond enrollment growth, Dr. Martin steered NC A&T towards attaining R1-Very High Research Activity status within the Carnegie Classifications. NC A&T achieving the necessary metrics during his final year as chancellor. 

In addition to his contributions at NC A&T, Dr. Martin has received numerous accolades for his dedication to education and leadership, including the Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s Educational Leader Award and the North Carolina Award, the state’s highest honor, which he will be presented later this week. His involvement extends to significant roles such as serving on the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the APLU Board of Directors.

The Peter McPherson Lifetime Achievement Award is reserved for those who have served as chancellors or presidents of APLU institutions and have demonstrated a longstanding dedication to the ideals of public higher education. The award is named after Peter McPherson, who led APLU from 2006 to September 2022.