JCSU Women’s Basketball Team Met Michelle Obama at 2012 CIAA Tournament

Posted by Langston Vincent
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The Johnson C. Smith University women’s basketball team had the opportunity to meet the First Lady of the United States of America, Mrs. Michelle Obama, on Friday, March 2 during the 2012 CIAA Tournament annual held at the Time Warner Cable Arena.

Before the startup of the Lady Golden Bulls game against Chowan University, the ladies basketball team had the chance to meet Michelle Obama on the court. Many stared astonished at the fact that the First Lady was really here within arms reach. She stopped by Charlotte to promote her Let’s Move! campaign, while also enjoying the game here in the Queen’s City.

“I almost shed a tear when I saw her, I had chills of excitement,” said JCSU student Desiree Forbes, as she shared her statement.

Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign is an initiative dedicated to helping with many health problems that Americans are facing today. The movement of the campaign is something that is shaping up many Americans in large capacities. It was an honor that the First Lady graced her presence not only to the Golden Bulls, but to the city of Charlotte.

After meeting the First Lady, the Lady Golden Bulls captured a 68-55 win against Chowan.

Johnson C. Smith To Partner with Charlotte School of Law for Dual Degree Program

Posted by Langston Vincent
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Beginning next fall, Johnson C. Smith University and the Charlotte School of Law will be offering a dual degree program which allows students to earn an undergraduate degree and a law degree within six years. This means that within the third year of a student’s Undergraduate career, one can begin their first year in the Charlotte School of Law.

Those students who display high-performing skills will be qualified for recruiting into the program. JCSU students will complete their JCSU degree requirements, and by the end of their junior year, those qualified can then enter the law program at the Charlotte School of Law.

JCSU President Ronald Carter states: “We appreciate the opportunity with Charlotte School of Law in a program that combines a quality liberal arts education with studies in the field of law.”

Students that want to join the program will be required to have a minimum SAT score of 900 and GPA of at least 3.0. This program will allow the students to dedicate all time and efforts into school and bringing down the cost of tuition with the start of this program, where within six years one earns both degrees, while average take eight years.

Only You Can Stop You: Overcoming Your Fears

Posted by Robert Hoggard
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“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?”-Marianne Williamson.

Williamson speaks of a common problem people stuck find themselves struggling with- a war within themselves. So many people are afraid of their capabilities that they only strive for the bare minimum. There are students who study hard to get that high “C” rather than striving for that “A.”

It has to  be socio-cultural. The culture of today’s society has the wants and needs of today’s people complacent with just maintaining. People are content with status quo and are uncomfortable with striving for anything that could possibly result in failure.

The grim reality of our world is that the government builds new prisons based on the test scores of elementary school students, being that they are the future,it is only more of an obstacle for our people to face because that statistic gives them motive to become that criminal.

So many people allow themselves to become a product of their environments that they do not allow themselves to broaden their horizens. It seems no one wants to try anything new. What happened to the road less traveled? This generation seems to only want to follow the leader instead of become the leader.

You can’t become the leader when you are repressed by fear. A fear that only you alone can overcome.

Why are you afraid of yourself? That fear should not leave you submissive but empower you to surpass the goals set forth before you. Unconsciously we ask ourselves who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? Answer that question with action, be the change.

3 Members of Alpha Phi Alpha at Mississippi State University charged with kidnapping a female student

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Three Mississippi State University fraternity members have been arrested and charged with kidnapping an MSU student by holding her against her will.
Donovan Carroll, 22, of Canton; Frederick Oglesby, 21, of Hattiesburg; and Corey Skelton, 22, of Kosciusko, turned themselves in to SPD at 2:30 p.m. Friday.

Starkville Police Department Lt. Troy Outlaw said the victim reported the incident Thursday night at approximately 10 p.m. The three suspects are members of MSU’s Alpha Phi Alpha chapter, he said, and the victim reported she had been restrained with tape. The alleged incident took place at 411 Scales Street in Starkville.
Outlaw said the victim told SPD she knew the three men and said she had been friends with them. He said the incident is believed to be related to a trend on the social networking website Twitter. SPD Chief David Lindley said the trio called friends of the victim and asked for a ransom.

“Evidently there’s something going on Twitter called kidnapping season. We did do a Twitter search and there is such a thing,” Outlaw said. “That’s what we’re basing it off, plus the victim also mentioned it.”

Lindley said the men could possibly face harsh consequences for their actions.
“I think it’s unfortunate they used such poor judgment in committing this act, particularly on the heels of the hoax that had just occurred less than 24 hours before,” Lindley said. “Kidnapping is a capital crime that can carry up to life in prison, and doing something like this indicates very poor judgment.”
Each of the three suspects are currently out on $15,000 bail.
Investigation of the incident is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call SPD at 662-323-4131

Referenced from Sharkville News

2012 HBCU Awards Nominees Released – Voting Polls are now Open

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Cast your Vote Today http://hbcuawards.com/vote

Polls end March 24th

~Academics Awards~
HBCU Arts & Science Buzz Merit Award
Itisha Jefferson of Spelman College
Dannielle Foster of Xavier University of Louisiana
Sherman Coleman of Dillard University

HBCU Liberal Arts Merit Award
Tonique Garrett of Howard University
William Lee of Morehouse College
Laurence Hull of Morehouse College

HBCU Buzz Scholar of the Year
Joevan Palmer of Winston-Salem State University
Lauren Danielle Merritt of Virginia State University
Itisha Jefferson of Spelman College

~Russell Athletic Awards~
Russell HBCU Male Athlete of the Year
Kyle O’Quinn – Norfolk State University
David Erby – South Carolina State University
Casey Therriault – Jackson State University
Rashad Ingram – Saint Augustine College
Stanley Jennings – Albany State University
Marcus Goode – Benedict College

Russell HBCU Female MVP of the Year
LaQwesha Gamble – Johnson C. Smith University
Whiquitta Tobar – Alabama A&M University
Saitaua Losia – University of Maryland Estern Shore
Victoria Lewis – Chowan University
Jamila McKinnis – Stillman College

Russell HBCU Rookie of the Year
WyKevin Bazemore of Winston-Salem State University
Joseph LeBeau of Jackson State University
Tajh Tate of Delaware State University
Kanesha Smith of Mississippi Valley State University
Travis Richmond, Fort Valley State University

Russell HBCU Dance Team of the Year
Southern University’s Dancing Dolls
Albany State University’s Golden Passionettes
Jackson State University’s Prancing J-settes
North Carolina A&T Golden Delight
South Carolina State University Champagne Dancers

Russell HBCU Cheerleading Squad of the Year
Winston-Salem State University
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
North Carolina A&T State University
Morgan State University Cheer Bears
Grambling State University

Russell HBCU Band of the Year
Albany State University
Tennessee State University
Virginia State University
Bethune Cookman University
Jackson State University
Winston Salem State University

~Leadership Awards~
Best Student Organization of the Year
Morgan State University Student Government Association
University Of Maryland Eastern Shore Student Government Association
Florida A&M University Student Government Association
Cheyney College of PA Student Government Association
Tuskegee University Student Government Association

Best HBCU SGA President of the Year
Travis Randle – Morehouse College
Jamin Gallmin – Bowie State University
Daquan Lawernce – Morgan State University
Breyon Love – Florida A&M University
Andrew Foster – Alabama A&M University

HBCU Queen Visible Hero of the Year
Courtney Scott Miss Shaw University
Ashleigh Taylor Miss Tennessee State University
Mea Ashley Miss Jackson State University
Heather Smith Miss Elizabeth City State University
Rachetta Moss Miss Virginia Union University

HBCU King Visible Hero of the Year
Patrick Carrington Mr. Kentucky State University
Matthew Riley III Mr. Bowie State University
Kevin Ferguson Mr. Alabama A&M University
Justin C. Caesar Mr. Delaware State
Jordan Coburn Mr. Claflin University

HBCU Student Run Community Service Initiative of the Year
Somalia Relief – Howard University
It’s on the House – Morehouse College
Be Health Conscious – Tennessee State University

HBCU Freshman Leader of the Year
Richard Lucas III – Bowie State University
Marcus Solomon – Grambling State University
Keyanna Commings – Southern SUBR
Jawon Amey – Clark Atlanta University
Jalynn Jones – Fayetteville State University

~Greek Awards~
HBCU Greek Step-Team of the Year
Alpha Tau Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority from (SUBR)
Alpha Phi Alpha, Delta Xi Chapter from Central State University
Delta Sigma Theta, Sigma Chapter from Clark Atlanta University
Omega Psi Phi, Nu Psi Chapter from Virginia State University
Eta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma from North Carolina A&T

HBCU Greek Chapter of the Year
Alpha Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta at Howard University
Mu Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at Spelman College
Alpha Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha at Morehouse College
Delta Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi at Wilberforce University
Delta Mu Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma at Bowie State University
Rho Theta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta at Norfolk State University

~Entertainment Awards~
HBCU Artist of the Year
Phil Wade – PVAMU
Kirko Bangz – PVAMU
Fuze the MC – Howard University
Ashton Travis – Howard University

HBCU Rapper of the Year
Young Lyxx – Clark Atlanta University
Willie Bema – Florida A&M University
EmeX – Howard University
Earth Gang – Hampton University
Darren Hanible – Bowie State University

HBCU R&B Artist of the Year
Amanda Badze – Howard University
Maya Milan – Morgan State University
Phil Wade – PVAMU
Lauren Peterson – UDC

HBCU Visual Artist of the Year
Rakeem Nowell – Delaware State University
Spencer Glover – Tennessee State University

~Other Awards~
HBCU Student Run News Publication of the Year
Southern Digest- Southern University
North Carolina Central University – Campus Echo
Grambling State University – The Gramblinite
Claflin Panther Newspaper- Claflin University
Belle Magazine- Bennett College

HBCU Student Run Fashion Troop of the Year
Ziana Fashion Club – Lincoln University PA
Phresh Lyfe Modeling Troupe – Albany State
Limitless Fashion Club– Delaware State University
Fashion At Morgan – Morgan State University
Dechire A la Mode – University of Maryland Eastern Shore

HBCU Campus CEO of the Year
Jerell Hester – Florida A&M University
Marcus Ponder – Bowie State University
Sonique O’Neal – Albany State University
Shenise J. McKnight – Howard University
Andre Albritton – Florida A&M University

Best HBCU Promotional Group
Dream Team – Howard University
Royal Court – Norfolk State
Nxtlevel Ent– North Carlina A&T
Union Ent – Morgan State University

HBCU Student Run Blog of the Year
All Erin Harper – www.allerinharper.com – Spelman College
Late Boots – www.lateboots.com – Morehouse College
The Crave Online – www.craveonline.com – University Of Maryland Eastern Shore
Chanel Files – www.chanelfiles.com – Howard University
The Christian Chameleon – www.christianchameleon.blogspot.com – Tennessee State University

Video: Sigma Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta (Clark Atlanta)

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The soul stepping sorors of DST! The  Sigma chapter of Delta Sigma Theta located at Clark Atlanta University won the 2011 Clark Atlanta University Greek Step Show with this excellent example of precision and intensity.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qr_xQ472VIk&w=610&h=340]

Bowie State Releases 2012 Football Schedule

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Bowie State will begin its 40th overall season of intercollegiate football and look to improve on last season’s mark of 4-6 (3-4 CIAA).  The Bulldogs began playing football in 1972 under the leadership of Staley Jackson and are now under the direction of fourth-year head coach Damon Wilson.

“This is probably one of the most competitive and balanced schedules we’ve had in our three seasons”, said Wilson.  “Our first five games will give us a good indication as to where the Bulldogs should fair towards the end of the season.”

Bowie State University will kick off its 10-game, 2012 season with a Saturday, September 1st home game against Assumption College in Bulldogs Stadium.  The Bulldogs rolled to a relatively easy 28-7 season opening road victory over the Greyhounds last season.  Assumption, a member of the Northeast-10 Conference finished with a 4-6 record in 2011.

The Bulldogs travel to Columbia (S.C.) for a Thursday (September 6th) night non-conference contest against Benedict College in week two.  Bowie State hosted Benedict in the Bulldogs’ home opener last season, beating the Tigers 31-14.  The Tigers (2-8 in 2011) are members of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC).

Bowie State welcomes the Fighting Falcons of Fairmont State College to Bulldogs Stadium – Saturday (September 15th).  The Fighting Falcons defeated Bowie State last season by the score of 49-20 at Fairmont State and lead the series 2-0.  Fairmont State finished the year with a 7-4 overall record.

Saint Augustine’s College (4-6 in 2011) returns to the Bowie State schedule for the first time since the 2003 campaign.  Bowie State will make their first trip to Raleigh since the inaugural Falcons / Bulldogs game in 2002.  The Bulldogs and Falcons meet in the George Williams Complex on the SAC campus – Saturday (September 22nd).  Bowie State edged the Falcons 14-6 in 2003 and leads the series 2-0.

The defending CIAA Champions and NCAA semifinalist of Winston-Salem State University bring their high-powered offense to Bowie State Saturday (September 29th).  The Rams and Bulldogs have not met on the gridiron since 2004 with BSU squeezing out a 7-6 home victory over WSSU.  Winston-Salem State leads the overall series 12-5 and ended their 2011 season with a 13-1 record.

Bowie State travels to Murfreesboro (N.C.) to take on Chowan University – Saturday (October 6th).  The Hawks tallied a 3-7 record last season and beat the Bulldogs 38-35 in BSU’s 2011 season finale.  The series is tied 1-1 with the Bulldogs winning the inaugural (2010) game by a score of 59-19.

The Bulldogs will celebrate Homecoming 2012 against the Trojans of Virginia State University on Saturday (October 13th).  Virginia State beat Bowie State last season, capturing a stunning 28-21 overtime win.  Virginia State holds a 17-8 series advantage over Bowie State.  The Trojans finished second in the CIAA North with a record of 5-5.

Bowie State hits the road following Homecoming, making stops at Virginia Union University (Saturday, October 20th) and Lincoln University of Pennsylvania (Saturday, October 27th).  The Bulldogs dropped a tough 32-29 nationally televised decision against VUU’s Panthers last.  Bowie State trails in the overall series (10-17-1).  Virginia Union placed third overall in the conference’s Northern Division and ended the year with a 5-5 record.  Lincoln (2-8 in 2011) lost 22-10 to Bowie State last season and BSU leads the series 3-0.

Bowie State will close out the regular season at home on Saturday (November 3rd) against the Vikings of Elizabeth City State University.  ECSU’s Vikings downed the Bulldogs 23-12 last year and finished the season as conference runner-up with a record of 8-4.  The Vikings hold a slim 15-14 series advantage against the Bulldogs.

Specific home theme days and final game times for all games will be released at a later date.

Recap: 2012 SIAC Basketball Tournament

Posted by Robert Hoggard
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The SIAC basketball tournament is more than just a week of basketball games. Its a homecoming and family reunion all in one. Friends and family all traveled to Atlanta to watch & support their schools. The Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference is full of talent and competition. People from all over the South gathered inside of Forbes Arena.

Day 1: February 28, 2012
The Division II HBCU college basketball tournament was kicked off by the #11Paine College vs.  #6 Miles College (Women). Both teams played solid defense,with each team forcing more than 20 turnovers apiece. Miles was led by Courtney English with 17 points and grabbing 12 total rebounds. Final score: Miles def. Paine, 60-53.

The second game was #11 Lane College vs. #5 Clark Atlanta University (Women). CAU’s point guard Conisha Hicks showcased her excellent ball handling skills, defense, and passing ability in her team’s victory. On one fastbreak, she stole the ball and executed a no look behind the back pass for the lay in. La’Quisha Lewis led the team with a double double scoring 17 points and grabbing 18 rebounds. The final score was 62-47, Clark Atlanta over Lane.

DAY 2: February 29, 2012

Stillman College took on Claflin University (Men). Stillman’s defense was dominant throughout the entire game, causing issues with Claflin. Stillman was hot from behind the arc, shooting 10-21 from the 3 point line. Stillman guard Jeffrey Wherry led the team with 21 points. He was 7  of 12 from the 3-point line. Stillman won it, 93-69.

The second game of the day was Albany State University vs. Kentucky State University (Men). Both teams displayed phenomenal guard play, but ASU’s Rachard Lofton got the best of KSU’s Austin Rich in the last second victory. KSU went into halftime with a two point lead over ASU and both teams stayed evenly match throughout the 2nd half. With under 2 minutes left in the game, ASU was down 59-60 Lofton was fouled hard and completed a crucial 3 point play to help them comeback and win the game. Albany State won by the final score of 63-60.

Next game: #11 Morehouse took on #6 Paine (Men). This was a great defensive game. The game went down to the wire with 2 straight trips to the free throw line for Andrae Nelson with less than 50 seconds left in the game. He made 3 out of 4 to put Morehouse within 1. The score was 60-61 when Morehouse managed to get the ball to win the game, but turned over the ball with 4.6 seconds left in the game. Morehouse felt the Paine of defeat at the hands of the Lions, 63-60.

Next, LeMoyne-Owen Lady Magicians took on the Fort Valley State University Lady Wildcats. Early in the game, L-O had a slight lead then FVSU started playing full court press trap defense. This forced all kinds of problems for the Lady Magicians. In the first half alone, the Lady Wildcats forced 21 turnovers. The score was 51-28 at halftime. In the second half, FVSU put the game away by going up by as much as 35 points. FVSU won handily, 99-64.

Day 3: March 1, 2012
Began at 12 noon with two very evenly matched teams. The men of Benedict College took on the men of Stillman College. It was an instant classic, heading into double overtime. The guards of Stillman could not out maneuver the inside presence of Benedict’s Marcus Goode. Benedict held on to advance,  86-85 over Stillman.

The next game was a defensive nail-biter. The Magicians of LeMoyne-Owen vs. The Golden Rams of Albany State Univesity. Both teams had momentum late in the game, but LOC escaped with a win. LeMoyne-Owen won it, 55-51 thanks in large part to ASU’s 13 missed free throws.

The next game was the Lady Panthers of Stillman College vs. The Lady Rams of Albany State. ASU was down 21 at the half, but gained strenght in the 2nd half to make the score a little less lopsided. The Lady Panthers won the game 91 – 73.

The night concluded with the match up of Clark Atlanta University vs. Paine College. This game went down to the wire with CAU falling short by two points. The final score was 76-74.

Day 4: March 2, 2012

This was the SIAC’s version of the Elite 8. The women of Tuskegee defeated Stillman college 72-65. Mental mistakes and turnover cost the Lady Panthers the game.

Fort Valley State University defeated the women of Benedict, 79-65. FVSU  head coach Lonnie Bartley is very passionate and comical during the game.

The two Men’s games of the day were LOC vs. Paine College. The Magicians defeated the Lions in a tight game. The final score was 61-59.

The Men of Benedict defeated the FVSU Wildcats in a blow out, 74-53.

Day 5: March 3,2012

The Championship Games!

The Women of FVSU took on Tuskegee University. Both team were equally talented and evenly match but FVSU intensity got the best of Tuskegee. The final was 61-52.

The Men of Benedict defeated LeMoyne-Owen 58-42. The outstanding play of Marcus Goode (17 points, 14 rebounds) helped Benedict College become Champions.

It was a great atmosphere. Listening to the pep band, watching the Greeks celebrate and watching the cheerleaders perform. Already looking forward to next year.

 

SIAC Baseball: Week #3 Player of the Week Honors Announced

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Benedict College first baseman David Weber and pitcher John Walton have been named SIAC Baseball East Division Player of the Week and Pitcher of the Week, respectively.

Weber, a native of Lawndale, CA, had a .667 batting percentage with a homerun, the first for Tigers this season, and a 1.670 slugging percentage in two games. The 6-foot-2, 195-pound junior scored five runs and drove in four more while successfully stealing bases on all three of his attempts. Weber had a .800 on-base percentage and was perfect in the field while helping lead the Tigers to a 2-0 record for the week with a double-header sweep over Virginia-Lynchburg.

Walton, a native of Augusta, SC, struck out three batters with just one walk in one appearance this week. The 6-foot-5, 210-pound senior went 1-0 for the week with no earned runs.

There was no player or pitcher of the week in the SIAC West Division for this week.

Gallery: 100th Annual CIAA Men’s Championship—Winston-Salem State vs. Elizabeth City State

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The 100th Annual CIAA Basketball Tournament. Photography by Victor Harper. Continue reading “Gallery: 100th Annual CIAA Men’s Championship—Winston-Salem State vs. Elizabeth City State”

Grambling State president expects to launch $10 million capital campaign

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Grambling State University President Frank Pogue says as state funding to higher education continues to decline, financial support from the community will become more important than ever for GSU.

Pogue spoke to members of the Monroe and West Monroe business communities about the financial state of the university during a breakfast Wednesday morning at The Atrium.

“All higher education institutions that contribute to the economic growth and stability of this region must be supported equally,” he said. “When one suffers, we all suffer.”

Pogue said one of GSU’s goals has been to look for alternative ways to boost financial support. To help with that effort, the university is expected to launch a $10 million capital campaign in the coming months.

Kenoye Eke, interim vice president for the office of institutional advancement at GSU, said the campaign will have four priorities: student access to scholarships, faculty support, campus beautification and renovating certain campus facilities.

Pogue said he set the initial goal at $10 million, but he hopes to raise triple that amount.

“I’m saying $10 million with the understanding that we want to raise $30 million,” he said. “I think we can certainly do that.”

(News Star)

Video: Delta Xi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha (Central State)- 2011 Sprite Step Off II Champions

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The Delta Xi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. have a reputation as some of the baddest stepping brothers in the country. But what did you expect…they’re Alphas. Enjoy their 2011 Sprite Step Off II performance, which earned them first place among fraternities.

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

Spelman College Leadership Conference Empowers Women to Lead With Purpose

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The Eighth Annual Spelman College Leadership and Women of Color Conference will assemble notable thought leaders to discuss and define what it means for women to “lead with purpose.” Leadership requires tremendous responsibility, accountability and at times, immense sacrifice – especially for women. Those who lead with purpose integrate their personal and professional priorities to provide a strong base for their leadership. The 2012 Conference will provide practical solutions on how to lead with purpose in a manner that is effective, sustainable and rewarding. Conference attendees and key experts will explore:

  1. How to build a strong foundation of leadership that is well-considered, authentic and intentional
  2. The value of innovation and the vital role of renewal and change in leadership
  3. The importance of mentors and reaching back to mentor future leaders

For more details and to register, visit http://www.spelmanwomenofcolorconf.com . Join the discussion and share your thoughts on this year’s theme on Facebook and Twitter , #SpelmanWOCC.

Convened by Jane E. Smith, Ed.D., executive director of the Center for Leadership and Civic Engagement at Spelman College, the conference features experts who will offer proven methods to effectively align values and goals in one’s professional and personal life. Among the distinguished speakers:

  • Henna Inam, CEO, Transformational Leadership, Inc.
  • Deborah Owens, CEO, Owens Media Group LLC
  • Rep. Alisha Thomas Morgan, C’2000, GA State House, District 39
  • Legacy of Leadership Award Honorees

And back by popular demand:

  • Conversations with Spelman College President Beverly Daniel Tatum, Ph.D.
  • Katherine Giscombe, vice president, Diverse Women & Inclusion Research, Catalyst.
  • Conference Coach Kym A. Harris, Ed.D., CEO and president, Your SweetSpot™ Coaching and Consulting Company.
  • Conference Fitness Expert Andrea Riggs, national fitness expert & TV personality/trainer.

Wednesday, May 16
3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Georgia International Convention Center

Thursday, May 17
7:45 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Spelman College

UMES Gospel Choir Created The Memory of a Lifetime

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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The 2012 Gala at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore produced its share of memories, which by the time you read this are already being circulated via email and social media.

Marilyn McCoo, and her husband Billy Davis Jr., join a group of UMES Gospel Choir members in an impromptu rendition of "Stoned Soul Picnic," a pop song the couple helped make famous 1968 as members of the 5th Dimension. Photo by CHERYL NEMAZIE/UMES

From Larry King’s amusing story of his role in an adolescent prank at his Brooklyn, N.Y., junior high school to heartfelt remarks from Tippi Hedren and S. Epatha Merkerson, the 400-plus guests heard well-traveled celebrities express appreciation for the UMES tribute in recognition of their contributions to American culture.

But there was a moment singer Marilyn McCoo graciously described as being “serenaded” that especially touched her and her husband, Billy Davis Jr. Only a handful of people in the audience knew what she meant.

After a low-key ceremony to award honorary degrees before Saturday’s banquet, the quintet slipped backstage to change out of their academic robes in preparation for a night of fine dining and dancing. In an adjoining hallway, wearing fluorescent-colored attire and headbands, students from UMES’ Gospel Choir began singing “Stoned Soul Picnic” a capella.

“And from the sky, come the Lord and lightning.

Stoned soul, stoned soul

Surry on soul”

McCoo and Davis helped make that song a pop music hit in 1968 as members of the 5th Dimension. The couple came to the changing room’s door to investigate the commotion.

They immediately stepped into the hallway, looked at one another and smiled as the students put their generational stamp on the song. The other celebrities quickly joined McCoo and Davis, and they clapped gently in rhythm, swaying back and forth.

The students circled back to the song’s first verse for an encore. McCoo and Davis walked over to the students, joining them shoulder-to-shoulder.

It was difficult to determine who was having more fun, the students or McCoo or Davis — or the dozen or so folks jammed into that hallway witnessing the performance.

“We were definitely surprised,” Davis said. “We loved it.”

“It was so sweet,” McCoo added. “We were honored and it made us want to get in there and pitch in.”

It was an indelible snapshot from a special evening that will live on for the lucky choir members who sang alongside two legendary performers.

Perhaps the happiest person in that cramped hallway was Della Dameron-Johnson, the choir’s long-time adviser.

“It was special, wasn’t it?” she said with a twinkle in her eye.

U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson Visits Paine College Campus

Posted by Michael Livingston II
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Senator Isakson & George Bradley

U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson visited Paine College’s campus this past Monday, and met with Dr. George C. Bradley, president of Paine College.  While the Georgia Senator was back in the state he set aside time to talk with Dr. Bradley about the college’s new programs and projects occurring on campus and in the Augusta community.

“I am proud to be here today and see all the incredible things going on at Paine College. Their new programs and construction of additional buildings are not only benefitting the students, but the Augusta community as a whole. Paine College is leading the way in preparing men and women for positions of leadership so they can go on to serve the community, the nation and the world,” said Senator Isakson.

Under the leadership of Dr. George C. Bradley, a multitude of new programming, building upgrades and capital improvements have occurred on the campus.  One of the most recent projects is the construction of the new HEAL Complex, which will house classrooms, laboratories, meeting and conference rooms. Accessible to the public, the facility will also be home to a new health and wellness facility focused on strengthening the community through fitness and healthy living.

The college is also working with neighboring Fort Gordon to establish a Critical Languages Institute designed to teach minority students and soldiers Farsi and Pashtu/Dari languages.  Additionally, the college is working to solidify a nuclear science teaching and research laboratory in order to train high caliber students who can serve as future radiation science workers in the robust local nuclear industry in the Augusta, Georgia area and throughout the nation.

“As we continue to raise the quality of life for our students and the community, I’m especially grateful to our federal government representatives, including Senator Isakson, for their support of our mission and vision of becoming a premier liberal arts institution in the region,” said President Bradley.