Will Greek Plots at Shaw University Be Relocated?

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The Vice-President of Student Affairs and Administration, Dr. Jeffrey A. Smith announced in late January, plans to relocate Greek plots. However, as construction behind the school is taking place, on-campus Greeks are fighting to keep their plots in the original location.

Will the Greek plots at Alabama A&M be moved despite the AAMu NPHC requests to remain where they are? (Skylar Davis)

The administration made the decision to relocate them and also, allowed current Greek members to become a part of the process of designing the new plots. Iota Phi Theta fraternity member, Marcus White, along with the ideas of Greek life members work to design the plots after a rigorous meeting to decide how the new plots would look . “At least they (administration) let the Greeks design it themselves, rather the school putting something together that does not look good.” Marcus White said.

According to Dr. Yancy, Shaw University’s President, said “This would be the new start of Greek Life and give the students their own space.” In the past the moving of the plots is not uncommon. For those who do not know Dr. Yancy previously worked at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC where this same incident happened and she moved the Greek plots to a similar location and structure.

Akin to history, Shaw University’s fraternities and sororities have faced the same struggles. The whole Divine 9 (all National Pan-Hellenic Council Organizations) is located at Shaw University. The Greeks generate a lot of student participation with on campus events.  . “What is the point of moving the plots? They are not a problem. The school has bigger problems to worry about rather than moving the Greek plots” said Shirnetta Alexander, member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

In January, It was said that Shaw University executives were trying to remove fraternity and sorority plots from main campus, also known as The Quad,where they are the centerpiece of the Quad. When walking up over the bridge you immediately see to your left the Alpha Kappa Alpha and Alpha Phi Alpha’s plot. Murals & brick paintings surround their territory.

By the old cafeteria’s location you can find the plots of Phi Beta Sigma and their sisters Zeta Phi Beta which these organizations has planted trees in the area to show their history. These grounds show the discrete and powerful history of Shaw University and its common stand for its Greek unity pride.These pieces of land have been in the works since the early 1970s and the land is a part of Shaw University’s history. For many of these reasons many of the Greeks believe Shaw University would be taking a piece of history from the school by moving the plots.

According to Shaw University executives, the plan is to move the plots to a location behind Fleming-Kee dormitory. The space will also be shared with the band as well as the baseball team. All Greek plots will be connected by a sidewalk. In the middle, the Greeks will share a unity plot. The unity plot is open to all National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) members.

No word on what will happen to the current location of where the plots used to be.

(The Bear Facts)

Alabama A&M Research Institute official arrested for campus burglary

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Kevin Matthews, the compliance officer for the Alabama A&M Research Institute, is facing a felony charge for allegedly breaking into an office at the research institute.

The Alabama A&M Research Institute on the Alabama A&M University campus. (The Huntsville Times file photo)

Police and court records show Matthews — a key player in the rift between the research institute and Alabama A&M University — was arrested last Thursday for an incident that allegedly took place last Wednesday.

Matthews has been charged with third-degree burglary, which is a Class C felony under Alabama law. He was released on a $2,500 bond.
According to a complaint sworn out by the Alabama A&M police department, Matthews entered Carnegie Hall (the research institute) with the intent to take property. Multiple sources have told The Times that Matthews broke into another employee’s office at the research institute.

The research institute is located in the heart of the Alabama A&M campus. Matthews has not responded to a message left on his cell phone.

(Alabama Live)

The Sports Jacket, & How to Wear It Right

Posted by Jecoby Carter
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GQ Magazine recently released samples of what they would like to see men styled in for the upcoming Spring season, and I think they are right on the money with their new fresh looks!! This season its all about the sports coat or blazer.

The sports jacket is the most important item in your wardrobe this season. You will be wearing it all day, every day, no kidding. There are countless ways to style it, whether you’ve got business to handle or you’re simply hanging out. Just remember: It’s called a sports jacket for a reason. You can dress it up, but it’s meant to be played in. Hard. That means throwing it on the backseat of your car or cramming it in your backpack once you’ve peeled it off. It doesn’t need an occasion, and it doesn’t need to match anything. It just needs to be worn…and worn…and worn, until it fits you like a second skin.

A sports jacket isn’t a suit, so don’t treat it like one. A plaid shirt, purple sweater, anything from khakis to jeans—it all works. If you’re uncertain, compose the outfit on your bed until you get it right. (We won’t tell anyone, promise.)

Navy blazers have been hugging the shoulders of dapper gentlemen for nearly two centuries. More recently, they’ve been adopted by businessmen and rappers alike. They’re that versatile. But do you know what your blazer says about you? Turns out the message is in the buttons. Choose the ones that suit your temperament.

There’s a new trend toward prewashed sports jackets. Think of them as you would distressed jeans—a little washing is a head start on breaking them in; a lot of washing looks ridiculous.

Any cotton suit jacket can be worn solo. But be careful with classic wool suits—it’s harder for the jackets to live without the pants.

SIAC Baseball: Week #4 Player of the Week Honors Announced

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Benedict College first baseman David Weber and pitcher Lamar Lewis have been named SIAC Baseball East Division Player of the Week and Pitcher of the Week, respectively. Kentucky State University third baseman Benjamin Tabb has been named SIAC Baseball West Division Player of the Week while Kentucky State University pitcher Arefes Everett has been named SIAC Baseball West Division Pitcher of the Week.

Weber, a native of Lawndale, CA, earns his second consecutive weekly honor after recording 11 hits, including three homeruns and five doubles, in 20 at-bats, finishing the week with a .550 batting average and a 1.250 slugging percentage. The 6-foot-2, 195-pounder junior also had 14 runs batted in and scored nine runs while also recording eight stolen bases on nine attempts. Weber, who also pitched two-thirds of an inning in a 9-2 win over Morehouse, had a .800 on-base percentage while helping the Tigers to a 5-0 record for the week, including doubleheader sweep over Shaw and a three-game series sweep over conference-foe Morehouse.

Lewis, a native of Decatur, GA, pitched 14 total innings with 14 strikeouts and just three walks in two appearances. The 6-foot-3, 185-pound senior gave up just five earned runs, finishing with a 2-0 record and a 3.21 ERA for the week.

Tabb, a native of Chicago, IL, recorded four hits, including a homerun, in 10 at-bats, finishing with a .400 batting average and a .700 slugging percentage in four games. The 5-foot-8 freshman also drove in four runs and scored three more while also finishing with one stolen base on two attempts. Tabb had a .500 on-base percentage and a .800 fielding percentage while helping lead the Thorobreds to a win over conference-foe Tuskegee.

Everett, also a native of Chicago, IL, pitched eight innings, including a complete game in a 5-2 win over Tuskegee, with five strikeouts and no walks. The 6-foot-2 freshman, who finished with a 1-0 record this week, gave up just one earned run to finish the week with a 1.12 ERA.

Is Doug Williams’ Future at Grambling State Questionable?

Posted by Kev Keise
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Doug Williams may no longer be the head coach of the Grambling State Tigers.

Could Doug Williams be leaving the legendary GSU Tigers football program? (Nola.com)

KTVE Sports has learned that Williams, who is in his second run at his alma mater, will go into spring drills without a contract approved by the Louisiana State Board.

When Williams was hired last spring, he signed a deal with the president and then athletic director, but that contract was never sent to Baton Rouge for final approval.

Now, the board wants Williams to sign a “revised” deal that will bring it more in line with other schools within the University of Louisiana System.

That new deal is said to be ‘less appealing’ and it remains unsigned.

KTVE Sports has also learned that Williams and his staff have not been paid “performance bonuses” due to them because of the ‘hic-cup’ with the new contract.  Williams guided the Tigers to a SWAC Western Division Title, a SWAC Championship and a win in the Bayou Classic.

Read more here.

Mississippi Valley State University Delta Devils Wins 2012 SWAC Title

Posted by Kev Keise
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Unlike Jacksons State of 2010 and Texas Southern of 2011, the top- seeded Mississippi Valley entered the SWAC tournament as favorites and did not disappoint.

William Pugh reacts after scoring two of his 10 points for Mississippi Valley State in its win over Texas Southern. (US Presswire)

If you never seen the Delta Devils in the Big Dance before, you will see it in this year’s NCAA tournament. Kevin Burwell scored 19 points to lead the Delta Devils in another tough match up against Texas Southern to take the SWAC title, 71-69. MVSU advanced to the Big Dance for the first time since 2008.

Mississippi Valley captured their fifth March Madness bid  in school history by defeating TSU for the third time this season. Like the previous two matchups before, the third time was a battle.

“All three games were close so I can’t say we got their number, but I can say we played a whole 40 minutes,” said Paul Crobsy, SWAC’s player of the year who finished with six points and five rebounds. “When it came down to it, we made the plays at the end to win the game and unfortunately, they didn’t, but I tip my hat to them. They played hard.”

The Delta Devils (21-12) controlled the entire game, as it quickly took a 10-3 lead with in the first five minutes and they never looked back. Though TSU (15-18) made numerous runs throughout the game, they never led.

At the 11:27 mark with the score 14-9, Omar Strong was fouled on a 3-point attempt. After Strong converted on all three free throws, Valley then went on a 9-5 run to close out the half, including a breakaway dunk by William Pugh that essentially changed the game. After Pugh dunk over Madarious Gibbs the game became more physical and intense.  On the Tigers ensuing play, a frustrated Strong sparked a mini riot between the two teams resulting in both teams getting technical fouls.  Texas Southern turned the ball over 17 times in the first half as they trailed by nine with a score of 26-17.

TSU opened the second half with a three pointer from Gibbs, and following a made free throw by MSVU Amos Studivant, D’Angelo Scott tightened the score to 27-22 at the 17 minute mark. The Delta Devils then piled up points on the Tigers; they would lead the game by as much as 20 with only 8:12 remaining in the game.

With the score 55-35 initially, you would get the notion that the game is over, but Texas Southern made a run late in the second half behind Strong’s seven second half 3-pointers. Strong, who led the game with 30 points, made six three point field goals after trailing by 20.

Texas Southern outscored Mississippi Valley 52-45 in the second half while shooting 64 percent and with 1:31 remaining TSU trailed 67-59. Gibbs connected on two consecutive three- pointers that made the score 67-64 with 55 seconds left, but a corner three by Brent Arrington secured the victory for Mississippi Valley.

“I’m proud of my team and I’m real quick to say ‘hey listen, we didn’t do this or we didn’t do that,’” said Tony Harvey, head coach of Texas Southern. “We never stopped fighting. I don’t have no (any)  reason to stick my head down.”

Dexter Ellington scored a layup then Cor-J Cox, who finished with nine points, eight rebounds and was named tournament MVP, was sent to the line where he made one of two free throws that made it 70-66. Strong made his last three of the season with two seconds left and after that the Delta Devils was crowned SWAC champs. Mississippi Valley will play Western Kentucky Tuesday night for the right to play #1 seed Kentucky in the South regional bracket of the 2012 NCAA Division I March Madness tournament.

NCCU looks to speed up construction of new union

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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N.C. Central University is exploring an alternative way of financing a new student union, in hope that would speed up construction of the proposed facility.

“The construction of a new student union building remains a top university priority,” said Zack Abegunrin, the associate vice chancellor of facilities management.

“Moving the project ahead as a self-liquidating project will allow the campus to continue with planning” for the new union and “we are hopeful this will accelerate the project completion.”

Construction of a new student union has been at the top of the university’s priority list for some time. The new 150,000-square-foot facility would replace the current, too small and outdated Alphonso Elder Student Union.

Read more at the Herald Sun

Mis”Steps” : The Decline of Black Greeks (And How to End It)

Posted by Robert Hoggard
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It’s partially my fault.

As an Alpha , I did MY part to make sure that one who saw ME, saw a positive reflection of the organization. The line known as “300” had individuals that shined brightly and generated interest in not only Alpha Phi Alpha, but Greek life in general. At the time, it appeared that this attitude would result in a changing of the guard, a throwback to the days of impromptu step shows, creative community events, and truly “Running the Yard”.

Members of Black Greek Letter Organizations have the ability to positively impact their campus

In retrospect, my actions and those of many Greek members are partially a misunderstanding of the commonly used poem “I, Me, My”. The poem’s words vary depending on which fraternity or sorority recites it, but its theme is to highlight selflessness and teamwork. Yes my fraternal friends, we have become quite selfish and it has severely damaged the legacy of one of the greatest phenomena of college life; the Black Greek letter organizations. My line experienced success and popularity during our time, but we did not mentor and prepare subsequent lines to the best of our ability, which has created unnecessary challenges for them. This lack of preparation goes on at colleges across the nation, and has resulted in what many call a decline in popularity of Greek Life.

While there are hundreds of thousands of prominent and influential Greeks over the spectrum of politics, entertainment, and medicine, there is an equal or greater amount of members who (perhaps due to lack of mentorship) are putting a damper in the reputation of BGLOs. Through incidents such as those at Mississippi State and Johnson C. Smith, the obsession with the “benefits” of Greek life, or the division caused by varying pledge processes, we have lost sight of the aims our founders laid for us. As a result, students are losing interest and are questioning the importance of joining the Divine Nine, a microcosm of the struggle Historically Black Colleges are faced with.

So what do we do? There’s no importance of discussing a problem if we do not highlight solutions and implement them. Going forward, we must do some soul-searching. What do these letters mean to us? What do you feel when you put on your frat hoodie or sorority line jacket? If you feel a sense of pride or joy, then I send out a call to action to every person who has the PRIVILEGE to wear these special letters. I ask that we all take three “steps”:

1.)    Make your next action your best action– Each statement, movement, and action you make goes beyond you. For better or worse, you’re no longer “Steve from Philly” on the yard; you’re “Kappa Steve”.  Your organization is your family; you wouldn’t act out in front of Grandma, would you?

2.)    Stop worrying about “Skating”- Yes, this is a very controversial issue within organizations, but half of the OUTLANDISH things a person has experienced during a “process” have NO bearing on their work ethic during programs (It’s normally a person who was there in the struggle acting lazy!) More importantly, keep these arguments behind closed doors. Your audience (who is usually non-Greek) only sees two people with the same letters fighting each other, and is turned off to your fraternity/sorority

3.)    Get involved in the improvement of your campus- Most of our organizations center around the betterment of our people and our world. Let’s act on these, y’all. Our faces need to be seen all year ‘round; not just during your week, Homecoming, and Greek Fest.  If you’re currently on campus, push your chapter to do a program a month (AT LEAST)

This can be a positive start for the renovation of our perception. Put in the work to be the greatest; Jay-Z and Kanye are in “Paris” because of the years of work in the US.  With these steps and more, we can work to return to “Running the Yard”, instead of just running around it.

Ceddy P

Claflin hits historically high 45 percent alumni giving rate

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Claflin University was recently referred as model for fundraising at HBCUs by the The Huffington Post. The institution’s alumni backed that statement up in 2011 as 45 percent of them contributed financially to Claflin.

The 45 percent alumni giving rate is the highest ever experienced by the University. Vice President for Institutional Advancement Rev. Whittaker V. Middleton, ’73, said the lofty mark is a testament to quality of his staff and the dedication of Claflin’s leal and loyal alumni.

He believes the University is on the right track to hit the goal of a 50 percent alumni giving rate in very near future. The University has launched in recent years the “First to 50” campaign, an effort to position Claflin as the first HBCU to have an alumni giving rate of 50 percent.

“This speaks to highly effective fundraising programs at Claflin University. We have a lot of alumni who really care about their institution,” Middleton said.

For the past two years, U.S. News and World Report has acknowledged Claflin as having the top alumni giving percentage in the nation among HBCUs.

The Division of Institutional Advancement has implemented several new and innovative approaches to increase fundraising. The University Call Center was opened in 2010 to reach out to alumni and friends for support and extend gratitude for past contributions. Also, Claflin has started area campaigns in large cities such as Atlanta and New York where there are large concentrations of alumni.

“We’re meeting our alumni face-to-face. We’re getting out of the office,” Middleton said.

Chapters of the Claflin University International Alumni Association (CUIAA) are becoming more involved and developing individualized fundraising programs as well. Alumni and other supporters are also able to give online through the University Web site or by swiping their credit cards via a cell phone and I-Pad program while on campus.

Manager of the Annual Fund Marcus Fogle, ’11, is also engaging current students to be more philanthropic through the Pre-Alumni Council.

“Claflin is giving our alumni more opportunities to give back,” Fogle said.

Middleton believes alumni are very proud of the institution given its national rankings, aesthetically pleasing campus and top notch academic programs.

“It’s not any one thing but a number of things that are contributing to our success,” said Middleton.

CUIAA President Liz Zimmerman Keitt, ’70, said her organization is engaging people within their chapters and mobilizing a special fundraising committee to enhance alumni giving. Also, every CUIAA chapter is hosting a special event, such as a luncheon or gala, every year to raise funds for the institution. In addition, CUIAA is conducting alumni leadership training and wealth management seminars.

“Claflin University alumni are visionaries who produce action. We are a dynamic, motivated group who will soon become the first HBCU to reach 50 percent alumni giving,” said Keitt.

Albany State University to Kick-off “Keep ASU Beautiful” Campaign

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Albany State University to Kick-off “Keep ASU Beautiful” Campaign The “Keep ASU Beautiful” campaign evolved from the annual ASU Go Green Week campus clean-up initiative. This year’s theme is “Blue+Gold=Green.” The campaign is a joint venture between ASU students, faculty, staff, and various community organizations including Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful and Life-Link of Georgia. Officials from the City of Albany will participate in the opening ceremony.

The initiative promotes a greener and cleaner environment on the campus and in surrounding areas. It will be used as a tool to increase environmental awareness and to maintain the sense of pride and responsibility we share for the environment.

The project is ongoing and will continuously promote preservation of the earth throughout each academic year.Participants will receive free door prizes and Keep ASU Beautiful tee-shirts. Lunch will be served at the completion of the campus clean-up activities.

In addition to the opening ceremony, other activities scheduled for the initiative include:

Adopt-A-Zone:
Throughout the year, campus organizations will promote and maintain a clean environment by making sure its designated zone stays clear of heavy waste materials. The organization will also have a sign with its group name placed in the adopted area.

The Carbon Step Challenge:
The Carbon Step Challenge/ Jam For Life Celebration (Life Link)/March of Dimes Fundraiser will take place Saturday, March 17, 2012 in the ASU Sanford Gymnasium at 5:00 p.m. The ASU Greek community will host the Carbon Step Challenge to bring awareness to climate change as it relates to the build-up of carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere. The organization will provide guiding principles on how to reduce the earth’s carbon emissions and replace them with green energy sources. All proceeds from the show will be donated to the March of Dimes.

(Urban Pulse)

Video: Zeta Alpha chapter (North Carolina A&T State University) of Zeta Phi Beta Strolling

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The Zetas pay tribute to the NPHC fraternities in their stroll at North Carolina A&T State University.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKvmcniV1wg&w=610&h=340]

Video: Tennessee State University Aristocrat of Bands

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The Tennessee State University Aristocrat of Bands doing their thing at the 2012 Honda Battle of the Bands. Shout out to TSU for celebrating 100 years.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3Ius5GzJt0&w=610&h=340]

Prairie View Wins SWAC Women’s Hoops Title

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The Prairie View A&M Lady Panthers took home their fourth Southwestern Athletic Conference tournament title with a 63-50 win over Alcorn State on Saturday at the Special Events Center.

A national television audience on ESPNU watched as the Lady Panthers earned the SWAC automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. The tournament bracket will be announced Sunday night on ESPN.

Tournament MVP Latia Williams led PVAM with 24 points and six rebounds. Williams was 7-for-21 from the field and 10-of-11 from the freethrow line. She also had three assists and a pair of steals in the game. Kiara Etienne added 15 points and five rebounds, while Larissa Scott had 10 rebounds to go with seven points and three blocks.

Carolinsia Crumbly paced Alcorn State (14-20) with 16 points and seven rebounds. Sharnika Breedlove added eight points and nine rebounds, while Au-Juvan Andrews, Kiara Ruffin an dAsia Reid all finished with seven points.

After a red-hot start, the Lady Braves appeared to wilt after playing four games in five days. Alcorn State led by as much as 10 points in the first half and 32-25 at halftime. The Lady Braves quickly extended their lead to 11 in the first few minutes of the second half. But, PVAM stormed back with a 28-9 run to take a 53-45 lead with 4:58 left in the game.

The PVAM rally took what was left out of Alcorn State as they wouldn’t seriously threaten the rest of the game. The Lady Panthers slowly pulled away en route to the tournament title.

 

All-Tournament team

Latia Williams – Prairie View (MVP)

Larissa Scott – Prairie View

Sharnika Breedlove – Alcorn State

Kiara Ruffin – Alcorn State

Wymeka Randle – Grambling State

Alia Frank – Mississippi Valley State

(SWAC)

Norfolk State Wins MEAC Men’s Tournament Championship

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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MEAC Player and Defensive Player of the Year Kyle O’Quinn scored a team-high 18 points to lead Norfolk State to a 73-70 victory over Bethune-Cookman to capture the 2012 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Tournament Title at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

The No. 2 Spartans (25-9), who earned their first-ever MEAC title, receive the conference’s automatic bid to the NCAA tournament and will await the announcement in tomorrow’s selection show of their post-season opponent.

The two teams battled back and forth through the early part of the first half until the Spartans used a 14-4 run over the last seven minutes to take a 35-22 advantage. Pendarvis Williams, a 6-6 sophomore guard and O’Quinn combined for 19 points and 10 rebounds between them.

The Wildcats (18-17) were limited to 31-percent shooting on an 8-for-26 effort.  They were out-rebounded, 21-13.

“Rebounding was huge in the first half, especially on the offensive glass,” explained Bethune-Cookman interim head coach Gravelle Craig.  “That was the reason that they were able to get the lead.”

Norfolk State maintained a 12 to 14-point lead over the first 14 minutes until the scrappy Wildcats began to chip away at the lead.

“We knew it would be a battle,” said Norfolk State Coach Anthony Evans.  “They are relentless going to the basket and they never give up.”

Bethune-Cookman was able to get the lead down to eight on four different occasions, but each time, Norfolk State would answer with timely baskets from O’Quinn and Johnson.

“O’Quinn was a big factor; he got his hands on a lot of balls,” said Craig.  “He made us change a lot of our shots.”

Added Evans.  “We depend a lot on those guys (O’Quinn and Williams) and Rob’s (Johnson) play off the bench has been a big spark for us.”

Trailing 69-60 at the 1:28 mark, the Wildcats staged a furious rally, outscoring the Spartans, 10-4 in less than a minute.  Kevin Dukes, who scored 12 of his team-high 18 in the second along with Garrius Holloman and Adrien Coleman led the rally.

With the score, 73-70 and just 17 seconds on the clock, the Wildcats had possession following a Norfolk State turnover.  Holloman scored four of the points during that stretch and attempted a 3-point shot that just missed.  Bethune Cookman got the offensive rebound and Dukes got off another three that missed as the buzzer sounded, setting off a big celebration.

“I was hoping to knock it down for my teammates,” said Holloman.  “I saw at the end that it was off just a little bit.  I didn’t get great rotation on it.”

It was the Spartans’ first tournament championship since joining the conference in 1997. For O’Quinn, a senior who finished with 18 points on 6 of 12 shooting and seven rebounds, the championship had special meaning.

(MEAC Media Relations)

NCCU Vocal Jazz Ensemble @ Next Generation Jazz Festival

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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NCCU Vocal Jazz Ensemble travel to Monterey, CA and record their performance for a CD & DVD project title, Live at The Next Generation Jazz Festival, as they compete in the Next Generation Jazz Festival, March 31-April 1, 2012.

The 16 voices and 4 instrumentalists have been chosen as one of six finalists to participate in this awesome opportunity. This will be the second recording of the group, and its first recording of a live performance in front of a live audience.

Their first CD, Arrival, was produced by and funded by saxophonist Branford Marsalis. This award winning group of young talented musicians and singers have a very diverse repertoire spanning the spectrum of jazz vocal music, from swing, blues, bebop, to spirituals, R&B.