Seven to be Inducted into West Virginia State University ‘W’ Club Sports Hall of Fame   

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
West Virginia State University Sports Hall of Fame Inductees

West Virginia State University’s National ‘W’ Club is set to honor seven distinguished athletes at its upcoming Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The event will commence at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12, at the James C. Wilson University Union as part of the university’s Homecoming festivities.  

The 2024 Hall of Fame inductees include Roy Brown, Tony Dwight Cornett, Jr., Christopher Dunn, Earl Monroe, Jason Moore, Ellis Spann, Jr., and Scott Swayne, each recognized for their outstanding contributions to WVSU athletics.  

Roy Brown

Roy Brown made his mark on the Yellow Jackets football team after transferring from East Central Junior College in 1977. As a two-year starter at defensive end and middle linebacker, he averaged ten tackles and three sacks per game, leading the nation in quarterback sacks during his senior year. Brown played a crucial role in WVSU’s return to glory, helping secure a championship against Shepherd University by blocking a punt that sealed the victory.  

Tony Dwight Cornett, Jr. 

Tony Dwight Cornett, Jr. enjoyed a stellar basketball career as a four-year starter for the Yellow Jackets. He garnered numerous accolades, including Outstanding Freshman in the WVIAC and multiple selections to the All-Conference first and second teams. After graduating in 2007, his professional career took him to Iceland.  

Christopher Dunn

Christopher Dunn also excelled on the basketball court, earning All-Freshman honors and the title of WVIAC Freshman of the Year. His standout performances made him the WVIAC tournament MVP in his senior year. He finished his career ranked among WVSU’s all-time leaders in assists, steals, and shooting percentage.  

Earl Monroe

Earl Monroe, who served as head coach of the WVSU football and track teams, began as a part-time assistant in 1987 before becoming the full-time head coach. Under Monroe’s leadership, the Yellow Jackets saw significant success, including their first NCAA Division II national ranking and back-to-back winning seasons.  

Jason Moore

Jason Moore, a former key Yellow Jackets baseball team player, was instrumental in clinching the WVIAC Championship in 1994. His talent earned him Player and Hitter of the Year honors in 1996, followed by a draft selection by the Arizona Diamondbacks. Moore returned to WVSU to complete his education after three years in professional baseball.  

Ellis Spann, Jr.

Ellis Spann, Jr. showcased his versatility as a two-way football player and a standout on the track team. He remains known for his record-setting 102-yard interception return and conference championships in sprinting events.

Scott Swayne

Scott Swayne, a 1974 WVSU alumnus, devoted his career to teaching and coaching in Kanawha County. He has accumulated numerous championships across football, basketball, and track, including a remarkable undefeated season as a head basketball coach. Currently, he serves as an assistant coach at Nitro High School, where he has helped lead teams to state championships and semi-final appearances. In 2022, Swayne was inducted into the West Virginia Coaches Hall of Fame.  

The induction ceremony will take place inside the James C. Wilson University Union. It is open to the public. Tickets are $15 and available at the door.  

Exclusive HBCU Screening of Prime Video’s “Cross”

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Get ready for three exciting experiences as Prime Video and HBCU Buzz team up to bring you
exclusive screenings of the highly anticipated crime thriller series Cross. HBCU communities will
have the unique opportunity to watch an episode of Cross before its official premiere on
November 14. The screening events, set to take place in Atlanta, the DMV, and Chicago, will
feature engaging Q&A sessions with special guests, including the talented Aldis Hodge (Atlanta
& DC), giveaways, raffles, and more.

The first screening event kicks off in Atlanta on October 16 at Morehouse College’s Ray Charles
Performing Arts Center (RAYPAC). Following Atlanta, Cross will screen at the Cramton
Auditorium at Howard University on October 23 for the HBCU community in the DMV area. And
finally, catch a screening of Cross in Chicago on October 30, at the ACX Harper Theater in
Hyde Park.

Prime Video "Cross" Exclusive Screening Dates
Photo Courtesy: Prime Video

Event Highlights:

The exclusive screenings will include:

– An advance screening of episode one of Cross

– Engaging Q&A sessions with special guests 

– Exciting activations and more 

Space is limited, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spots. All neighboring HBCUs are invited to join in the events.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exclusive experience! Click here to register.

Exclusive Screening Dates:

– Atlanta, GA: Oct. 16, 2024, at 6 p.m.  

Morehouse College, Ray Charles Performing Arts Center, 900 West End Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

– Washington, DC: Oct. 23, 2024, at 6 p.m.  

Howard University, Cramton Auditorium, 2455 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20059

– Chicago, IL: Oct.  30, 2024, at 6 p.m.  

ACX Harper Theater – Hyde Park, 5238 S Harper Ave., Chicago, IL, 60615

About Cross

Based on James Patterson’s best-selling Alex Cross book series, Cross follows Detective Alex Cross as he confronts a sadistic serial killer leaving a trail of bodies throughout the city. As Cross and his partner delve deeper into the investigation, they face a threat from Cross’s past that risks unraveling his family and career. The series comprises eight episodes and will be available exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories worldwide. It has already been renewed for a second season even before its debut, highlighting the excitement surrounding this gripping narrative.

In addition to Aldis Hodge, who also serves as a producer, the cast features a remarkable lineup, including Isaiah Mustafa, Juanita Jennings, Alona Tal, Samantha Walkes, Caleb Elijah, Melody Hurd, Jennifer Wigmore, Eloise Mumford, and Ryan Eggold. Cross is produced by
Amazon MGM Studios, Paramount Television Studios, and Skydance Television.

Howard University President Inducted into the American Academy of Arts & Sciences

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Dr. Ben Vinson III

In a notable recognition of his contributions to scholarship and leadership, Dr. Ben Vinson III, president of Howard University, has been formally inducted into the prestigious American Academy of Arts & Sciences. This honor places him among an elite cohort of 250 new members. The Academy chooses members from diverse fields within five divisions: Mathematical and Physical Sciences; Biological Sciences; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Humanities and Arts; and Leadership, Policy, and Communications.

Joining the Academy’s Class of 2024

The 2024 class features an array of distinguished individuals, including New York Times columnist Jamelle Bouie, renowned actor and producer George Clooney, and celebrated Olympian and philanthropist Grant Hill. President Vinson’s induction underscores his significant role in academia. This recognition extends Howard’s legacy of influence within the Academy, joining previous Bison inductees.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition from the American Academy of Arts & Sciences,” remarked President Vinson. “I look forward to engaging with such an esteemed group of thought leaders and visionaries in advancing scholarship that addresses some of the most complex issues facing our nation.”

Dr. Vinson became the 18th president of Howard University in September 2023. He is a renowned historian specializing in the African diaspora, particularly in Latin America. His acclaimed work, *Before Mestizaje: The Frontiers of Race and Caste in Colonial Mexico*, was awarded the 2019 Howard F. Cline Book Prize in Mexican History. Beyond his role at Howard University, he contributes to the Academy’s Commission on the Practice of Democratic Citizenship and chairs its subcommittee on higher education.

Fellowships from leading organizations, including the Fulbright Commission, National Humanities Center, Social Science Research Council, and the Ford, Rockefeller, and Mellon foundations have bolstered Vinson’s extensive academic journey.

Founded in 1780 by such luminaries as John Adams and John Hancock, the American Academy of Arts & Sciences has a storied mission: to celebrate the life of the mind and advance knowledge in the arts and sciences for the benefit of society. Throughout its history, the Academy has welcomed numerous influential figures, including Albert Einstein, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Madeleine Albright.

HBCU Receives $2M for Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Entergy Mississippi President and CEO Haley Fisackerly and JSU President Marcus Thompson, Ph.D., talked about the new Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab that the Entergy Charitable Foundation will fund.

Entergy Charitable Foundation awarded Jackson State University a $2 million grant to establish the Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab. This groundbreaking initiative aims to enhance cybersecurity within the energy sector. The school announced the news during a press conference on Monday, where Entergy Mississippi president and CEO Haley Fisackerly presented JSU President Marcus Thompson, Ph.D., with a ceremonial check. Local leaders, including Congressman Bennie Thompson who has long championed JSU’s initiatives, attended the event. 

Fueling the Workforce

This new lab will serve as an innovation hub designed to train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. It will address the urgent need for skilled workers in nuclear, electric, and natural gas companies and electrical cooperatives. “I am honored to receive this generous grant on behalf of Jackson State University. This gift will have a lasting impact on the lives of our students and the future of the energy sector,” said Thompson.

Establishing the Critical Power Grid Network Security Lab marks a significant step in JSU’s commitment to workforce development and cybersecurity education. The facility will provide students with hands-on experience protecting critical power grid infrastructure from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. Fisackerly emphasized the vital role of cybersecurity in today’s society, stating, “Electricity isn’t a luxury for most people; it’s a necessity. And so is thwarting cyber threats in the energy sector.”

The growing cybersecurity workforce gap is alarming. There is a deficit of approximately 3.4 million professionals globally and over 700,000 job openings in the U.S., according to (ISC)². In light of this crisis, JSU aims to enhance its cybersecurity curriculum and resources to better prepare graduates for careers in this field. 

The investment also highlights the emerging threat landscape. Global cybercrime costs are projected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. As the severity and frequency of cyberattacks increase, the collaboration between JSU and Entergy is a proactive measure to build robust defenses in the energy sector. Entergy chair and CEO Drew Marsh added, “Our partnership with Jackson State University is a testament to our commitment to creating opportunities for students and shaping the leaders of tomorrow.” Over the coming years, JSU will receive the grant in multiple installments, dedicated solely to developing the lab. 

HBCU Set to Host Jacksonville’s First-Ever NCAA Division II National Championships 

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
EWU women's volleyball player hits the ball in a game

Edward Waters University has announced that it has been selected as the host institution for two NCAA Division II Championships. The school will welcome the 2027 NCAA II Women’s Volleyball Championship and the 2028 NCAA Division II Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships. In a notable collaboration, the University of North Florida will host the 2027 NCAA Division I Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field First Round Championships.

Making History In Jacksonville

This decision marks a historic milestone for Jacksonville, which will host these Division II collegiate tournaments for the first time. The city will make history by hosting three distinct championships within two years. EWU’s recent transition to NCAA Division II status has enabled Jacksonville to submit successful bids for these significant national events.

Dr. Ivana Rich is the vice president for intercollegiate athletics at EWU. She emphasized the significance of these championships for the university and the community.

“We are thrilled to serve as hosts for the 2027 NCAA Division II Women’s Volleyball Championship and the 2028 NCAA Division II Men’s & Women’s Outdoor Track & Field Championships in collaboration with our partners at UN,” Dr. Rich stated. “This underscores our dedication to athletic excellence and positions Jacksonville as a dynamic sports hub. We look forward to welcoming athletes and fans nationwide to enjoy our outstanding facilities and warm hospitality. We truly value the collaboration with UNF and Visit Jacksonville to make this dream a reality. I take immense pride in representing the NCAA Division II membership on this stage and look forward to providing these student-athletes with a world-class experience.”

Hosting these prestigious championships is part of EWU’s broader strategy to solidify its status as a leader among Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Division II institutions. The university aims to enhance its visibility and reputation in academic and athletic arenas. 

Anonymous Donor Gifts Livingstone College Another $1 Million During Homecoming

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Livingstone College is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes alums and friends for its annual homecoming festivities, affectionately known as Stonecoming. This year’s celebration comes with a remarkable gift: an anonymous donor has generously contributed $1 million to aid ongoing campus improvement projects.

Livingston College presented with anonymous $10 million dollar donation
Livingstone College received an anonymous $10 million donation back in September. Courtesy of Livingstone College

“In 146 years of this institution, we have had unprecedented momentum. In the past 60 days, we’ve received more than $20M in philanthropic support, with our anonymous donor gifting the college another $1M donation,” said Dr. Anthony J. Davis, president and CEO of Livingstone College, in a YouTube announcement on Monday. “Every dime has been invested in the $50M ‘Miracle on Monroe Street Project,’ a comprehensive campaign that will refurbish five residence halls, including 90 beds, at our Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management facility.”

This significant donation is pivotal for Livingstone College, which has welcomed 441 freshmen and new students this year—the second-largest and most competitive enrollment in the college’s history. The incoming class boasts an impressive average GPA of 3.26. The college says this accomplishment positions it “as one of the top destinations for the country’s best and brightest students who wish to attend an HBCU.”

The festivities of Stonecoming are currently underway, running from Oct. 6th to 12th. This year’s events include a Praise Party and Gospel Jubilee featuring recording artist Tye Tribbett, a Fashion Show, and a Step Show. The week will culminate in Saturday’s game, where the Blue Bears will face off against the Broncos of Fayetteville State University. This will be followed by the Stonecoming 2024 The Experience concert, headlined by renowned artists Anthony Hamilton and BossMan Dlow, along with iconic Sugar Hill Gang performances.

Lincoln University Breaks Ground on Health & Security Sciences Institute

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Lincoln University of Missouri broke ground on its new Health & Security Sciences Institute (HSSI) during a ceremony on October 3, 2024.

Lincoln University of Missouri marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for its new Health & Security Sciences Institute on Oct. 3. The event, which took place at 709 E Dunklin Street, heralds a new era in training for healthcare and crisis response professionals in Missouri and the Midwest.

The ambitious project will feature a 40,000-square-foot facility designed to expand Lincoln’s nursing program and enhance the Law Enforcement Training Academy. This educational hub aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in healthcare and security fields, directly responding to the needs of local and state communities.

Lincoln University HSSI
Courtesy of Lincoln University of Missouri

During the ceremony, Lincoln University President Dr. John Moseley highlighted the institute’s role in fostering a workforce capable of effectively addressing public health crises and promoting community safety. “This building is going to house an emergency operation training center that we believe will be one of a few that is on a college campus in America. We think that agencies throughout the Midwest can come here to prepare for disasters because. Oftentimes, they don’t find themselves in an emergency operation center until there is an emergency,” Moseley said during the ceremony.

Also present were Cole County Presiding Commissioner Sam Bushman, Jefferson City Mayor Ron Fitzwater, and Student Government Association President Jillian Patton, who echoed the president’s sentiments regarding the HSSI’s importance. 

The HSSI is envisioned as a collaborative space for students, faculty, and local, state, and regional agencies in disciplines such as nursing, health sciences, pre-med, and security sciences. Its mission focuses on serving underserved populations and enhancing community responsiveness.

As construction for the $45.4 million project progresses, Lincoln University’s HSSI is set to become a vital resource, fostering the next generation of healthcare and security professionals dedicated to improving the well-being of communities throughout the region. 

Tennessee State University PD Earns State Accreditation

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
TSU officers receive accreditation award

Tennessee State University’s Police Department has recently achieved prestigious accreditation, reinforcing its dedication to creating a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. The Tennessee Law Enforcement Accreditation Program awarded the accreditation which the Tennessee Association of Chiefs of Police Board of Directors Professional Standards Committee recognizes. The accreditation signifies alignment with best practices in law enforcement.

Chief Greg Robinson expressed the significance of this accomplishment. “This accreditation means so much to the positive success of institutions like TSU. It signifies that we have adopted the industry’s best standards and practices when it comes to training and implementing safety measures on campus.” TSU joins an elite group of only ten universities in Tennessee to receive this honor.

TSU Chief of Police Greg Robinson
Courtesy. of Tennessee State University

In the past year, TSU PD has demonstrated its effectiveness, reporting a 20% reduction in crime on campus. “Achieving accreditation shows that we are meeting national standards to continue improving campus safety,” Robinson added. 

Intern Trinity Vann, a criminal justice senior, has witnessed the department’s dedication first-hand. “I can tell that TSU Police Officers are passionate about their jobs, and they work very hard. So, I do feel that this is a very well-deserved accreditation,” Vann stated. She emphasized feeling secure while walking across campus, highlighting the officers’ genuine concern for everyone’s safety.

TSU security guards on campus bikes to ensure campus safety.
Courtesy of Tennessee State University

The department’s accreditation process has lasted three years. It employs 26 full-time sworn officers. As a historically significant achievement, Chief Robinson noted, “When a department becomes accredited, it means you have adopted the industry’s standards and best practices from across the country.”

In addition to enhancing safety protocols, TSU has invested in critical infrastructure upgrades, including improved campus lighting and nearly 30 Code Blue Emergency towers that provide direct access to police assistance. Looking ahead, Robinson aims to expand officer presence and conduct educational seminars to enhance safety awareness on campus further.

TSU PD’s accreditation is valid until September 2027. 

Historic Launch of HBCU Early College Prep High School Announced for Southeast Queens

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming education access for students in New York City, Dr. Asya Johnson, chancellor’s master principal of NYC Public Schools, has announced the creation of the city’s first-ever HBCU Early College Prep High School. The school is set to open in Southeast Queens next September. This innovative institution will provide students with an academic experience that reflects the legacy and culture of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

In an announcement video, DSU alumna Dr. Johnson stated, “I am developing a new school in New York City that will bridge the accelerated academics of a rich tradition of HBCU experience.” The school aims to offer NYC public school students a unique opportunity to fast-track their educational journeys, enabling them to graduate with a high school diploma and a free associate’s degree through a partnership with Delaware State University. Upon completing the associate’s degree, the school promises guaranteed admission to Delaware State University.

HBCU Early College Prep High School students will benefit from a curriculum incorporating leadership training while emphasizing mentorship and teamwork. The school will integrate service learning and social justice initiatives into its educational framework, encouraging students to engage actively with their communities and advocate for equitable solutions to societal issues. 

Dr. Johnson brings over 16 years of educational leadership to this ambitious project. Her extensive background includes serving as principal of Longwood Preparatory Academy in the South Bronx and various roles within the New York City Department of Education, including Director of Special Education Programs. 

The school has received the full support of the NYC Department of Education and influential educational leaders like Dr. Josephine Yeboah Van-Ess.

Applications for 9th grade admissions are now open and will close on December 4th. 

CIAA Suspends Sports Competition for Saint Augustine’s University Through 2024-25 Academic Year

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Saint Augustine's Men Basketball game

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association announced on Friday that Saint Augustine’s University will be suspended from all sports competitions effective immediately and lasting through the end of the 2024-25 academic year. This decision follows the university’s failure to meet necessary conference compliance requirements and ongoing challenges in fulfilling NCAA sports sponsorship and scheduling standards for the upcoming season.

The CIAA Board of Directors made this decision after thorough deliberation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a fair and equitable environment for all member institutions. “While it is disheartening to make a decision of this magnitude that impacts one of our member institutions, the decision was guided through a fair, deliberate, and thoughtful process in efforts to determine what was best for the conference while also protecting the wellbeing and holistic experience of the student-athletes,” stated Board Chair Aminta Breaux.

Due to this suspension, if Saint Augustine’s chooses to continue participating in sports during this period, those competitions will not count towards CIAA standings and seeding, and the university will not be eligible for championship participation.

The university has decided not to sponsor softball for the spring of 2024 and football and volleyball for the fall of 2024. According to CIAA standards, each DII member institution must sponsor and complete at least ten sports each academic year. SAU faces questions about its ability to fulfill these obligations for the remaining sports programs, particularly its men’s and women’s cross-country teams.

“Saint Augustine’s University has been a member of this conference for over 80 years.  Their administrators, coaches, students, student-athletes, alumni, and the SAU community are important and valued as part of the CIAA legacy,” remarked CIAA Commissioner McWilliams Parker. “The CIAA will continue to support and rally around the Falcon family and President Burgess as they prepare to return for the 2025-26 season.”

Spike Lee to Join Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame’s SuperFans

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Spike Lee at New York Knicks game

Filmmaker and Morehouse College graduate Spike Lee is set to receive a prestigious honor that celebrates his unwavering devotion to the New York Knicks. On Oct. 13, 2024, Lee will be officially inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame’s James F. Goldstein SuperFan Gallery. Alongside Lee, other celebrated fans, including actor Billy Crystal, Philadelphia 76ers SuperFan Alan Horwitz, and Hollywood icon Jack Nicholson, will be honored.

The announcement came from the NBA league office, marking a significant acknowledgment of Lee’s lifelong support for the Knicks, a team he has passionately cheered for throughout his career. The induction ceremony will occur at 1:00 p.m. ET on the Jerry Colangelo Court of Dreams as part of the Hall’s ongoing Enshrinement Weekend festivities. 

John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, expressed his excitement about the new inductees. “We are excited to welcome Billy Crystal, Alan Horwitz, Spike Lee, and Jack Nicholson into our SuperFan family,” Doleva stated. “​​These individuals have not only been passionate fans but have also significantly contributed to the rich culture of basketball. Their unwavering dedication to the game and their ability to connect with fans make them truly deserving of this recognition.”

The James F. Goldstein SuperFan Gallery, established in 2018, honors some of the most dedicated and famous NBA fans in history. Lee joins the ranks of previous SuperFans, such as Penny Marshall, Nav Bhatia, and Jim Goldstein, the gallery’s namesake. Most notably, except for Marshall, who passed away in 2018, all prior inductees are expected to attend the ceremonial event.

In addition to the SuperFan Celebration, the Hall of Fame will host a formal induction ceremony at Springfield’s Symphony Hall, where a new class of basketball legends will be honored.

ECSU Interim Chancellor Honored with President’s Lifetime Achievement Award

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Dr. Catherine Edmonds

Elizabeth City State University’s Interim Chancellor, Dr. Catherine Edmonds, has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for her unwavering dedication to advancing public education in North Carolina. With over 30 years of experience spanning primary, secondary, and higher education, Edmonds’ contributions have greatly impacted her community and beyond.

Established by President George H. Bush, the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals who have significantly influenced their communities through service. It is the highest honor presented by the President of the United States in recognition of community service. The accolade acknowledges Edmonds’ efforts to enhance public education across the state.

Committed to Public Education

Before her role as interim chancellor at ECSU, Edmonds served as chief of staff at North Carolina Central University. Her legacy, however, extends far beyond this position. 

Edmonds began her career as a high school math teacher and school principal in Granville County Schools. Her passion for elevating educational standards led her to serve as a director for the North Carolina New Schools Project and as an instructional improvement officer for Guilford County Schools. She further expanded her influence as superintendent of two northeastern North Carolina school districts.

Her commitment to public education also saw her take on various state-level roles, including state director of the North Carolina Principal Fellows Program and deputy state superintendent at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Throughout her diverse career, Edmonds has focused on professional development, providing coaching and technical assistance to aspiring school leaders in high-need schools, and leading reform initiatives aimed at turning around low-performing institutions.

In 2012, the District and School Transformation Team, under Edmonds’ leadership, received the State Superintendent’s Team Leadership Award for their exceptional success in improving educational outcomes.

Dr. Edmonds was honored during a ceremony at NCCU. The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award includes a lifetime pin, a medallion, and a letter signed by President Joe Biden.

Strong Ties to North Carolina

A proud first-generation college graduate, Edmonds has strong ties to North Carolina’s public higher education system. She earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics education from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and completed graduate studies at North Carolina Central University and North Carolina State University. She holds both a master’s degree in educational leadership and a Doctor of Education degree in educational administration.

Alabama HBCUs Team Up for Transfer Scholarships

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Leaders from Bishop State Community College and Alabama A&M

In a significant move to enhance educational opportunities for students, Bishop State Community College and Alabama A&M University have announced a partnership that will offer full-tuition scholarships for Bishop State graduates looking to further their education at the four-year institution.

Through a recently signed memorandum of understanding, both colleges aim to create a streamlined pathway for BSCC graduates aspiring to transfer to AAMU. This initiative facilitates academic progression and financially supports students who meet specific criteria.

Transfer Merit Scholarships

As part of this agreement, AAMU will allocate ten Transfer Merit Scholarships specifically for Bishop State graduates who achieve a minimum GPA of 3.25 and complete at least 60 credit hours. To maintain the scholarship, recipients must uphold a cumulative GPA of 3.1 and earn at least 30 credit hours each academic year, with the opportunity to retain this funding for up to four semesters.

Bishop State Community College and Alabama A&M leaders sign MOU for transfer scholarships.
Photo Courtesy: Bishop State Community College
Bishop State Community College and Alabama A&M leaders sign MOU for transfer scholarships.
Photo Courtesy: Bishop State Community College

“We are excited about this partnership with Alabama A&M University and the opportunities it creates for our students,” said Bishop State President Olivier Charles. “Alabama A&M has a storied history and a strong reputation for producing leaders who make a difference in their communities. Partnering with such an institution aligns with our mission to provide our students with the best possible pathways to success, and advocating for transfer scholarships demonstrates our commitment to their success beyond their time here at Bishop State.”

Dr. Braque Talley, vice president of student affairs at AAMU, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership. “Community colleges have a growing population, and we are thrilled that this partnership creates a seamless process for students to transition from Bishop State to AAMU,” he said. “The transfer merit scholarship will make this process even smoother.”

In addition to the scholarship offerings, the MOU stipulates that Bishop State graduates achieving a GPA of 3.33 or higher will receive priority consideration for admission into AAMU’s Honors Program. Furthermore, a 15% tuition discount will be provided to full-time faculty and staff from Bishop State pursuing an online Ph.D. program at AAMU.

The MOU also emphasizes ongoing academic collaboration and support for transfer students, ensuring a smooth transition from community college to university life.

USTA Florida Awards First-Ever HBCU Tennis Program Grant

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
Edward Waters women's tennis players after a win.

In a landmark event that underscores both the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the sport of tennis, USTA Florida has awarded its inaugural HBCU Tennis Program Grant to Edward Waters University. This significant grant, valued at $100,000, was officially announced during a ceremony held at the Edward Waters University Tennis Complex.

The grant aims to provide essential funding to bolster tennis programs at HBCUs across the state. The grant is designed to address various needs within the EWU tennis program, which just completed its inaugural season earlier this year.

Laura Bowen, executive director of USTA Florida, spoke passionately about the grant’s significance. “This grant is more than just money,” she said. “Today marks an important shift in USTA Florida’s history of service to our state and to the beautiful sport of tennis.” With this support, EWU can enhance its tennis facilities, procure necessary equipment, offer scholarships to Florida students, and invest in coach education.

USTA and Edward Waters grant event
Photo Courtesy: Edward Waters Athletics
Edward Waters women's tennis players at USTA grant event
Photo Courtesy: Edward Waters Athletics

Supporting The Young Program

Dr. Ivana Rich, associate vice president and director of athletics at EWU, expressed her gratitude for the grant and outlined her vision for the tennis program’s future. “We are deeply grateful to USTA Florida for awarding Edward Waters University this HBCU College Tennis Program Grant,” Dr. Rich remarked. “It represents a significant step forward for our newly established women’s tennis program and reinforces our commitment to providing quality athletic opportunities for our student-athletes. This support will enable us to enhance our tennis offerings, provide an exceptional experience for our student-athletes, and engage more of our community in the sport of tennis.”

Head Coach Marc Atkinson also expressed his excitement about the grant’s potential impact. “This HBCU Tennis grant will have a transformative effect on our tennis program and the student-athletes it serves,” he said. “With this grant, we will be able to purchase new equipment and training tools for our players, offer additional scholarships to attract talented student-athletes, and enhance our travel budget to compete in more tournaments”

As the team prepares for the upcoming 2025 season, many players expressed their thanks to USTA Florida, eager to see the improvements and opportunities this grant will bring. “These improvements will not only benefit our current tennis players but will also help us attract and develop future talent, elevating the entire program to new heights,” Coach Atkinson added.

In closing the event, Bowen reaffirmed USTA Florida’s dedication to supporting EWU and other HBCUs in the future.  “This grant comes with a promise that we will continue to be your partner in growing this program for as long as it is in existence. We will stay connected with you, and together, we will develop more ways to support Edward Waters tennis,” she said.

Vote Now: 2024 Top HBCU Homecoming Poll

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
WSSU student section

Every fall from late September to early November, alums filled with nostalgia flock back to campus at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, reminiscing about late-night study sessions and unforgettable experiences. Step shows, and parades bring everyone together, celebrating the rhythms and chants that reflect shared heritage across generations. Tailgating parties set the stage for laughter, barbeque, and more of those cherished memories that never fade. At the football games, marching bands fuel the energy surge through the crowd. 

HBCU homecomings are more than just reunions. They are celebrations filled with culture, history, and an indescribable community pride. Homecoming roots trace back to the 1920s when alums sought ways to stay connected to their beloved campuses. Homecoming is also a powerful reminder of HBCUs’ vital role in providing opportunities for African American students. It’s a time to honor the legacy of those who paved the way and to inspire the next generation to keep that spirit alive. 

As we dive into the 2024 homecoming season, we want to hear from you! Which HBCU homecoming gets your adrenaline pumping and your spirit soaring high? Share your thoughts in our poll below. 

You can vote daily until 11:59 p.m. Eastern on Sunday, Nov. 15. click here to vote.

UDC Unveils State-of-the-Art Athletic Field After Decade-Long Wait

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on
UDC ribbon cutting ceremony on new field

The University of the District of Columbia has proudly unveiled its newly renovated athletic field, an exciting enhancement to the Van Ness campus that has been a decade in the making. The university held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the official opening of the state-of-the-art turf facility.

UDC Director of Athletics Patricia Thomas expressed her enthusiasm for this significant milestone. “This new turf field is a game-changer,” said Thomas. “It’s designed to accommodate soccer as well as men’s and women’s lacrosse. The previous grass field struggled under the wear and tear of three teams, making maintenance a challenge, especially in bad weather. Now, we have an all-weather facility that will serve our student-athletes and the entire university community far better”

The upgraded facility boasts impressive features, including a new scoreboard, a cutting-edge sound system, shot clocks for lacrosse, and covered benches with bleachers that can accommodate over 300 fans. The field is fully illuminated for the first time, enabling evening practices and games. Thomas noted, “It’s the nicest field in our conference and rivals many Division II or III athletic facilities.”

UDC's newly renovated athletic field
Photo Courtesy: The University of District Columbia

In addition to serving UDC‘s athletic teams, the new field complies with NCAA specifications for soccer, allowing the university to host championship events on campus. “We’ve waited a long time for this, and now we’re ready,” said Thomas.

A Project for the UDC Community

Notably, the field is open for more than official games and training. “The whole university community—students, faculty, and staff—will have opportunities to use the field during open hours. We’re also planning to revitalize our intramural program, especially in soccer, which has always been popular with our students,” Thomas explained.

Looking ahead, UDC’s athletics program welcomes 30 new student-athletes this year, bringing the total to about 120. With anticipation building for the upcoming seasons, Thomas highlighted the optimism surrounding the men’s and women’s soccer teams.

“They’ve faced significant challenges, including having to train off-campus early in the morning,” explained Thomas. “Despite these hurdles, they reached the conference championship last season, narrowly losing in the final minutes. With many key players returning, I’m confident they’ll have a stellar season.”