19 HBCUs Recognized as Fulbright Institutional Leaders 

The U.S. Department of State has designated 19 Historically Black Colleges Universities as “Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders.”

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

In a significant move to bolster international academic exchange, the U.S. Department of State announced today that 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities have been designated as “Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders” for their outstanding engagement with the Fulbright Program during the 2023-24 academic year.

The announcement was made ahead of the upcoming 2024 Annual National HBCU Week Conference, hosted by the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through HBCUs. This recognition highlights the integral role HBCUs play in promoting global engagement and cross-cultural understanding.

The Fulbright Program has long been the United States government’s flagship international educational exchange initiative, designed to foster mutual understanding between people across diverse cultures. Initiated in 1946, it has provided over 400,000 students, scholars, teachers, and professionals from various backgrounds with opportunities to study, teach, and conduct research abroad.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken applauded the selected HBCUs, stating the designation “is a testament to your institution’s dedication to promoting global engagement and international understanding.”  

Scott Weinhold, senior bureau official for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, echoed this sentiment, noting how the involvement of HBCUs in the Fulbright Program builds meaningful relationships worldwide.“The U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Program are committed to reflecting the full diversity of the United States,” said Weinhold. “Historically Black Colleges and Universities are vital contributors to America’s higher education community.  They are dedicated institutions working to develop the leaders of tomorrow.”

The Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader status recognizes those institutions that actively host international faculty and graduate students while also sending their recent graduates and faculty overseas for various scholarly endeavors. 

The initiative’s framework highlights the commitment to showcasing HBCUs as prime destinations for international students and scholars, ultimately preserving their rich intellectual traditions and histories. The program not only encourages participation among students and faculty but also enhances the global perspective at these institutions.

Karl Jackson, a Fulbright U.S. Scholar to Ghana and associate professor at Virginia State University, collaborated on innovative water purification solutions with his peers at the University of Ghana. His work exemplifies the impactful collaboration the Fulbright Program fosters between the U.S. and other nations.

Several current and former Fulbright participants shared their transformative experiences, demonstrating the program’s profound impact. Allison Gilmore, a Fulbright U.S. student to Austria and a proud alum of North Carolina A&T State University, highlighted the importance of HBCUs in fostering global leaders. “HBCUs are institutions that were specifically created to educate Black students, and as we continue to make our marks in history, we show the world how worthy we are of our placement in these spaces,” she asserted.

Maame Efua Addadzi-Koom, a Fulbright Scholar-In-Residence from Ghana at Howard University, expressed gratitude for her time at the institution, where she taught courses on gender and law. “My Fulbright journey was memorable. It was full of lessons and exciting and challenging experiences that shaped me,” she reflected.

Busola Mercy Adebayo, a 2022 Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant from Nigeria to Fayetteville State University, noted the opportunity the program provided her. “Fulbright gave me a platform to teach my language and showcase my culture. To learn about the U.S. educational system and culture. Above all, my experience and exposure during my Fulbright FLTA program is second to none. I learn, unlearn, and relearn,” she stated. 

FSU’s provost, Dr. Monica Leach, noted that the university’s engagement with the Fulbright Program is part of its dedication “to ensure that our faculty and students can pursue international collaboration and enrichment experiences,” bringing global engagement to the campus to benefit students and the entire community.

Biden-Harris Administration’s Additional $1.3B for HBCUs, Reaching Over $17B in Support

The Biden-Harris administration has committed $17 billion to enhance support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

To bolster Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the Biden-Harris Administration announced an additional $1.3 billion in federal funding this week. This funding, added to the previously allocated $16 billion, brings the total federal investment in HBCUs from Fiscal Years 2021 through 2024 to over $17 billion. The record achievement aims to enhance underserved communities’ educational access and economic mobility.

This new funding will profoundly impact HBCUs, which comprise only 3% of the nation’s colleges and universities but serve a disproportionately high number of Pell Grant-eligible low—and middle-income students.

Research indicates that approximately 30% of HBCU students advance at least two income quintiles, compared to only 18% from non-HBCUs. Moreover, HBCUs collectively generate an impressive $16.5 billion annually for the national economy, creating over 136,000 jobs and contributing substantially to their graduates’ lifetime earnings.

In addition to direct financial aid, the new funding includes $188 million in competitive grants aimed at strengthening HBCUs’ research and development capabilities. This comes alongside $1.1 billion focused on need-based grants and support programs like Pell Grants for HBCU students.

The Other $16 Billion In Support

The Biden-Harris administration’s initial $16 billion investment to support HBCUs included $90 million in funding for a University Affiliated Research Center at Howard University by the Department of Defense, the launch of the Connecting-Minority-Communities program and HBCU CHIPS Network by the Department of Commerce, and a $262.5 million investment from the Department of Agriculture for training diverse agricultural professionals. The Department of Energy has introduced a $7.75 million Clean Energy Education Prize, while nearly $25 million has been allocated by the Department of Education for research infrastructure.

Prairie View A&M University leads a University Transportation Center with a share of a $435 million grant from the Department of Transportation, and NASA has allocated nearly $12 million for AI and machine learning programs at HBCUs. Additionally, The Department of Health and Human Services developed initiatives like HBCU-Connect and a $30 million Maternal Health Research Collaborative, while the National Science Foundation is providing over $10 million for Ideas Lab projects to enhance research capacity. Finally, the Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $5.5 million for housing and community development research. 

Randell “Randy” Perkins: JCSU’s Trailblazing Cadet on the Path to Military Service

Randell “Randy” Perkins has made history by becoming the first cadet at his university to sign a military service contract before graduation.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Randell “Randy” Perkins is a freshman at Johnson C. Smith University and a member of the National Guard, making waves as the first university cadet to sign a military service contract before graduation. 

Perkins always envisioned joining the military to fund his college education. After graduating high school, he swiftly entered basic training. Following his training, he relocated to Charlotte to study cybersecurity at JCSU, following in the footsteps of his brother, Ryan Perkins, also a student at the university.

Upon discovering that JCSU was part of a local consortium offering an ROTC program, Perkins recognized an opportunity to enhance his military training while pursuing his degree. 

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do after high school, so I thought joining the army would benefit me,” he said. His commitment quickly paid off, allowing him to fulfill the physical requirements for ROTC due to his prior military experience.

Dr. Cheryl Curtis, the director of veterans and military affairs at JCSU, emphasized Perkins’s remarkable achievement. “Cadet Perkins was able to meet the course requirements faster than others in a record one semester of being an ROTC cadet,” she said.

Perkins’ says being part of the ROTC program is tough. His days start at 5:30 a.m. with physical training. “It takes a lot of dedication to be in ROTC. The program teaches leadership skills like how to take initiative and how to plan,” he said. He now shares this journey with fellow cadet Jasmine Hogan, marking a significant return of ROTC participation at JCSU.

“I want to fight and serve,” Perkins added.  “I like knowing that I’m not just fighting for myself and the people I love and care about. When disasters happen and they call for people, some shy away. But not me.”

His eagerness to serve comes at a time when U.S. military recruitment faces significant challenges. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, 2023 marked the worst recruiting year for the military since 1973.

His motivation to serve is inspired by his father’s work as a federal agent. After his time in the armed forces, he hopes to pursue a career similar to his father’s.

Perkins is on track to graduate debt-free and ready to commence his commissioned role in the U.S. military. Dr. Curtis counts his achievement as a significant milestone for Perkins and JCSU. She is hopeful about expanding the ROTC program, with ten students currently on the waiting list. She urges interested students to reach out.

Grambling Receives $700K NSF Grant to Enhance Research Education

Grambling State University has been awarded a $700,000 NSF grant to establish a new Department of Research Ethics and Integrity.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Grambling State University has been awarded a significant $700,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to research ethics education across its campus. This funding is awarded through the Ethical and Responsible Research program. The program aims to cultivate a culture of research integrity while building the university’s overall research capabilities.

Dr. Carolyn Jackson is an associate professor of education at GSU and acting director of graduate studies. She will serve as the primary investigator for this groundbreaking project. Her co-primary investigator is Dr. Connie Walton, the provost and vice president of academic affairs. Notably, GSU stands out as one of only two institutions in Louisiana to receive the ER2 grant during this cycle. GSU joins Tulane University. It is also the sole Historically Black College and University awarded this honor.

Creating the DREI

The project, titled “Fostering a Culture of Research Ethics and Integrity: An Institutional Transformational Project,” seeks to transform GSU’s existing framework of research ethics at GSU. Jackson added that the initiative aims to create an environment where ethical research practices are paramount. “Our goal is to strengthen the university’s research infrastructure through this comprehensive effort that will result in a new department — The Department of Research Ethics and Integrity,” she stated.

Currently, GSU requires only select members of the university community to complete limited ethics training associated with specific grant proposals or thesis work. However, with the new grant funding, the university plans to expand these requirements significantly. The DREI will ensure that all faculty, students, and staff engage in comprehensive training related to research ethics.

“The DREI will provide training via invited lectures, workshops, a new Research Ethics 101 course and other activities and trainings,” Jackson explained. This expansion will not only enhance the knowledge base surrounding research integrity but also provide essential support to the broader research community.

The team will conduct a strategic evaluation study to assess the effectiveness of these initiatives,. This will assess how comprehensive training programs can influence researchers’ perceptions of their ethical responsibilities and enhance a culture of responsible research within the institution.

Jackson emphasized that the project’s findings may also yield important insights into the research culture at HBCUs and address the effects of ethical violations in research practices. 

“The evidence-based nature of the project’s curriculum design allows for the project to serve as an exemplar of institutional transformation, providing a blueprint of what works in creating a culture of research ethics and integrity at HBCUs and similar institutions. that are endeavoring to enhance their research profile,” she added. 

Coppin State University’s P2P Stackable Credentials Programs Unprecedented Growth

Coppin State University’s Pathways to Professions Stack Credentials program has achieved a remarkable 115% increase in enrollment.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Since its inception in Fall 2023, Coppin State University’s Pathways to Professions Stackable Credentials program has demonstrated remarkable success. The program achieved a record-breaking 115% increase in enrollment, a 98% course completion rate, and a 97% competency mastery. 

Dr. Yi Huang designed the program, offering teachers avenues to earn post-baccalaureate certificates and pathways to advanced degrees. These efforts align with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future goals and provide salary incentives and national recognition for participants. It redefines success in higher education, especially among Historically Black Colleges and Universities. 

“We are proud to be leading the way in creating opportunities for teachers that align with the needs of our communities while setting new standards for educational excellence,” said Dr. Huang, founding Executive Director and Research Professor of the Center for Inclusive Excellence.  

The program’s impact extends beyond enrollment numbers. With a retention rate soaring to 86% in Spring 2024 and a perfect 100% in Fall 2024, the P2P program serves 43 enrolled students for Fall 2024. It offers innovative support through MicroResidencies, MicroCredentials, and a Leadership Academy at no cost. The program equips aspiring and practicing teachers with hands-on experience in urban and rural classrooms.

Coppin State’s collaborative approach has been implemented simultaneously at Salisbury University, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and various public schools across Maryland. “The accomplishments of this program highlight the power of collaboration and the importance of fostering an inclusive, forward-thinking approach to education,” noted Anthony Jenkins, president of CSU.

For more information about the P2P Stackable Credentials program and other initiatives, contact the Center for Inclusive Excellence at cie@coppin.edu.

AAMU Sole HBCU in $2.8 Million NSF Grant Initiative

Alabama A&M University has become the only HBCU selected for a $2.8 million NSF grant initiative to develop an administration and management curriculum.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Alabama A&M University has become the sole Historically Black College and University selected to participate in a $2.8 million initiative funded by the National Science Foundation. The project focuses on developing an undergraduate curriculum to advance research administration and management, a field often overlooked in formal academic training.

The initiative, titled “Filling the Gap: Establishing an Undergraduate Program in Research Administration and Management,” is spearheaded by Dr. Chris Brown. Brown is a seasoned researcher and former vice president for research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Despite successfully managing a research program with expenditures exceeding $780 million, Dr. Brown had to navigate his professional development without any structured educational framework for research administrators.

Over the next three years, Dr. Brown will collaborate with a network of over 40 universities and international partners in South Africa and Namibia to create a credit-bearing curriculum designed to equip students with the skills needed to enter the workforce in research administration.

The Grant’s Network of Institutions

Alabama A&M will work alongside institutions such as the University of South Alabama, the University of Miami (Ohio), the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the University of California, San Diego, and New Mexico State University to develop and implement the courses that will serve as the foundation for this new program.

Dr. Majed El-Dweik, Alabama A&M’s Vice President of Research and Economic Development, emphasizes the significance of this initiative for HBCUs facing resource challenges. “Alabama A&M has an Office of Research and Sponsored Programs” that works tirelessly to support faculty in securing research funding,” he explained. “We know that many HBCUs have low resources in their Sponsored Programs, and some don’t have Sponsored Programs at all, so we will be working to share with those universities how they can obtain and develop that talent.” ”

The complexity of applying for and managing research grants is often daunting, and this initiative seeks to clarify the career pathway for aspiring research administrators. “For example, who can apply for this position? It’s very confusing. Is it someone with a business degree, education degree, engineering degree? This project will target and educate students and professionals, but mostly students, because there is no pipeline in this area to support sponsored programs,” adds El-Dweik.  

The newly developed curriculum will encompass vital topics including grant management, legal issues in sponsored research, budgeting, intellectual property, and compliance with federal regulations. 

“This will provide a viable professional career option for future research administrators and managers,” said Brown. “Their service provides the backbone that supports research, scholarship, and service at universities, industry, government, and not-for-profit organizations. These individuals are critical to achieve successful outcomes, including technical innovation and improvement in the quality of life.”

NCAT Receives Grant to Establish Sustainable Engineering Education

North Carolina A&T State University has received $350K to enhance its engineering curriculum by integrating sustainability principles.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Researchers in the College of Engineering at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State have been awarded a $350,000 grant from the National Science Foundation and The Lemel Foundation to integrate environmental and social sustainability into the engineering curriculum.

As a land-grant institution, NC A&T is committed to improving the human condition through innovative education and research. Dr. Steven Jiang is a Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering professor and the grant’s principal investigator. He emphasized the importance of incorporating sustainability principles from the beginning of engineering education.

“So often we see sustainability taught as an afterthought,” said Jiang. “With this grant, we want to continue to integrate environmental and social sustainability into our curriculum, so our students are always thinking about how their systems and designs will impact the community.” 

Guiding the Next Generation of Engineers

Guided by Lemelson’s “Engineering for One Planet” framework, Jiang and other faculty members will align the ISE curriculum with competencies mandated by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. This ensures that graduates are equipped to design socially and environmentally responsible solutions, promoting a new generation of engineers who are “Leaders, Integrators, and Transformers.”

The grant also establishes an advisory board to guide this curriculum integration. It will be comprised of experts in sustainability curriculum design, an industry practitioner, and a representative from a human life and environmental health nonprofit organization. This collaborative approach ensures that students emerge as innovative engineers committed to fostering a sustainable future.

The grant’s co-principal investigators include ISE faculty members Paul Stanfield, Lauren Davis, Muyue Han, and Vernal Alford. Jiang noted, “The core of ISE is systems thinking. “We, by nature, are multidisciplinary, so we are a great starting point to integrate our curriculum with sustainable practices.” This initiative promises to equip students with the skills to make a meaningful difference in their communities. 

Lawson State Community College Partners with Uwill to Enhance Student Mental Health Services

Lawson State Community College has partnered with Uwill to provide students with comprehensive mental health services at no cost.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Lawson State Community College has announced an exciting partnership with Uwill, a leading provider of student mental health solutions. Uwill will offer comprehensive mental health and wellness services to its students. This initiative comes at no cost to students and provides access to private, secure, and confidential support through the Uwill online platform.

Recognizing the importance of mental wellness, Dr. Cyrus Vance, LSCC Dean of Students, stated, “Our students understand that safeguarding their mental health and wellness is just as important as caring for their physical health, and we are here to support them.” The partnership aims to address rising mental health concerns among college students. This includes general anxiety and family distress, which the Center for Collegiate Mental Health have been identified as significant issues.

Uwill’s offerings include free teletherapy, a direct crisis connection, and a variety of wellness options, making it a valuable addition to LSCC’s existing Health and Wellness team. “For some students, managing the pressures of attending college, working, and other obligations can be stressful,” Dr. Vance added. “We are pleased to provide Uwill services and wellness programming to address what students manage and what they are feeling.”

The Uwill platform allows LSCC students to select therapists according to their preferences and schedules. In addition to teletherapy, students can engage in wellness programs focusing on yoga, mindfulness, and meditation.

Importantly, the services offered through Uwill are also available to Lawson State faculty and staff. However, those facing medical emergencies are urged to call 911.
To register or learn more about the services available, click here.

Biden Celebrates HBCU Week, Emphasizes Education and Unity

In a heartfelt address during the National HBCU Week Conference in Philadelphia, President Biden celebrated the crucial role of HBCUs.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

In an address, President Joe Biden marked the annual celebration of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, emphasizing their vital role in shaping American society and promoting educational equity. His message was part of the National HBCU Week Conference in Philadelphia. 

President Joe Biden delivers remarks at the 2024 National HBCU Week Conference, Monday, September 16, 2024, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz)

“Delaware State is the best HBCU in America,” said President Biden. The president reminisced about his early political career at Delaware State, where the institution welcomed and encouraged him, ultimately leading him to become one of the youngest U.S. senators in history.

Biden took a moment to express his heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Tony Allen, a Delaware State graduate who now serves as the university’s president, highlighting their long-standing friendship and collaborative efforts.

Continuing his address, Biden celebrated HBCUs for their resilience and commitment to providing quality education despite a history rooted in adversity. “More than 180 years under the shadow of slavery and Jim Crow, HBCUs instilled a sense of purpose and freedom, a commitment to make a difference for all their students, to lift up not just yourselves but others along the way,” he said. He stressed that educational access should empower students to pursue their talents.

Biden-Harris Administration’s HBCU Investments

The president also highlighted his administration’s initiatives to support HBCUs, including significant financial investments totaling $17 billion—the largest commitment by any administration to date. “HBCUs are engines of economic mobility in our country, raising standards of living for everybody,” he noted. He cited statistics that reveal HBCUs produce a substantial percentage of the nation’s Black professionals across various fields, including engineering, education, and healthcare.

Biden reaffirmed his commitment to diversifying workforce opportunities through initiatives such as the Chips and Science Act, which aims to create pathways for students from HBCUs to enter high-demand sectors like technology and engineering. 

The U.S. Department of Education also announced grants for eight HBCUs under the Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence Program and the Minority Science and Engineering Improvement Program. These programs aim to increase and retain well-prepared teachers from diverse backgrounds in underserved schools.

Additionally, $1.5 million will be awarded to establish a National Technical Assistance Center focused on diversifying the workforce serving children with disabilities. A new collaboration called the Executive HBCU Space Lab aims to boost HBCU engagement in space-related federal contracting. 

Biden expressed optimism for the future of HBCUs and their students. “We can do anything we want to do when we do it together,” he said. 

President Joe Biden poses for group photos with HBCU Presidents and Fellows after speaking at the 2024 National HBCU Week Conference, Monday, September 16, 2024, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz)

Shifting focus, Biden addressed the recent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump in Florida, commending the Secret Service for their swift action and emphasizing his condemnation of political violence. “In America, we resolve our differences peacefully at the ballot box, not at the end of a gun,” said Biden.

DSU College of Business Hosts HBCU Professional Fashion Show

Delaware State University’s College of Business recently shone a spotlight on professionalism with its HBCU Professional Fashion Show.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Delaware State University’s College of Business lit up the Longwood Auditorium this past Friday with the HBCU Professional Fashion Show, a showcase designed to highlight donated professional attire for students in need. The event, co-hosted by TD Bank, featured College of Business students hitting the runway. 

The collaboration between TD Bank and the College of Business aims to address a critical gap for students who may struggle to afford appropriate clothing for professional settings such as job fairs and networking events. Dr. Carrie Awadzi, a professor of practice at the COB, recognized that while professionalism is a core tenet of their educational mission, many students lacked access to suitable attire. 

After learning about this pressing issue, Dr. Awadzi shared her concerns with her twin sister Joann Means, a senior diversity talent recruiter at TD Bank. Means initiated a clothing donation drive that quickly gained momentum. Last year, the TD Bank team collected 400 pieces of professional clothing and distributed them to needy students.

This year, the efforts expanded dramatically. With the help of Brooks Brothers and the commitment of TD Bank colleagues, the team collected 1,200 pieces of clothing for DSU students. “I stored all of it in my basement; last week, I came with a huge van, and the students helped me unload it,” said Means, describing the overwhelming response to the initiative.

The fashion show celebrated this year’s accomplishments and allowed students to showcase their new professional wardrobes. 

“This is a labor love for me because I see students with the clothing, and they are so excited,” Ms. Means said. “I know next week they will be suited and booted for the Career Fair.”

A gallery is available for those interested in viewing photos from the event.  

Alabama State University Secures $1.2 Million NSF Grant to Enhance STEM Education

Alabama State University has received a $1.2 million NSF grant to strengthen and diversify STEM education in Alabama by training future educators.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Alabama State University has been awarded a $1.2 million grant from the National Science Foundation for the quality and diversity of STEM in Alabama. The grant, part of NSF’s Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship, will support research and teacher training initiatives from 2024 to 2029.

Dr. Gulnaz Javan, a professor of forensic science and coordinator of forensic biology in ASU‘s Department of Physical and Forensic Science, will lead the initiative as the principal investigator. The funded project is titled “The Building of Alabama STEM Educators with M.S./M.Ed.” Dr. Javan expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity to enhance the teaching workforce in STEM fields. 

“This program’s ultimate goal is to produce more highly qualified and competent minority STEM teachers who are competent in content knowledge and possess a strong commitment and disposition to teaching biology, forensic science, and mathematics in our school systems,” Javan stated. “This significant grant is the first NSF grant to be secured by ASU’s Department of Physical and Forensic Sciences.” 

Joining Dr. Javan in this initiative are co-principal investigators Dr. Anthony Broughton, associate dean in ASU’s College of Education, and Dr. Roberto Reed, assistant professor in the same college. Together, they form a team focused on addressing the critical need for qualified STEM educators.

Dr. Broughton highlighted the importance of this grant in shaping future educators. “This opportunity allows us to address the critical need for highly qualified STEM educators in underserved communities,” he stated. “By preparing and supporting future teachers, we not only enhance STEM education but also empower students from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in these vital fields.”

Fueling STEM Through Partnership

Significantly, the program involves a partnership with the Montgomery Public School System. Dr. Javan explained how the collaboration would recruit STEM graduate education students and assist them in overcoming challenges.

“This million dollar-plus grant will allow our school systems to recruit STEM graduate education students, track their matriculation, and assist them through areas that currently present challenges to their progress,” Javan said. “As this NSF grant progresses each year, ASU’s track-one of the Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program will recruit eight new scholars from three master STEM programs offered by ASU’s Biology, Forensic Science, and Mathematics programs and support them for two years as they attain their Master of Education degrees. 

The collaboration between ASU and MPSS aims to increase the number of qualified STEM educators and elevate the representation of minority teachers from underrepresented groups.

SC State University Athletics Faces NCAA Sanctions for Non-Compliance

South Carolina State University has been placed on a one-year probation by the NCAA due to compliance violations involving inaccurate squad lists.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

The NCAA has placed South Carolina State University on one-year probation. This follows a series of compliance violations related to the maintenance of squad lists and ineligible participation in its programs. These infractions mainly involve the women’s soccer, women’s basketball, and football teams. The probationary status will not impede the university’s ability to compete in postseason events.

The situation arose when SC State athletics administrators self-reported numerous infractions during the fall of 2022. This proactive move prompted an extensive investigation by the NCAA enforcement staff, with which the administration, coaches, and athletics officials fully cooperated. The investigation ultimately led to a final Negotiated Resolution Agreement between SC State and the NCAA.

Compliance Issues

According to the negotiated resolution, several key violations were identified:

1. Squad List Maintenance: The university failed to maintain and submit accurate squad lists for 14 sports during the 2021-22 academic year.

2. Ineligible Participants: There were multiple instances of ineligible athletes participating in competitions:

  • An ineligible player was identified on the women’s basketball team during the 2021-22 season.
  • The Bulldog football team also fielded two ineligible athletes; one undergraduate player was enrolled in only nine credit hours instead of the required 12, and a graduate student participated while enrolled in just six credit hours, falling short of the required nine.
  • Additionally, an ineligible player competed on the women’s soccer team in 2022.

3. Non-Cooperation: A former athletics staff member did not cooperate with the NCAA enforcement staff during a separate inquiry into the men’s basketball program. This violation occurred after the staff member had left the university and was not part of the negotiated agreement.

Notably, SC State and the NCAA acknowledged that the eligibility violations stemmed from complications arising from a ransomware attack that significantly disrupted the university’s information technology systems and automated processes. Both are essential for verifying student-athlete eligibility.

Resolution

As part of the agreed-upon sanctions, SC State University will face the following penalties:

  • A one-year probation period.
  • A financial penalty of $10,000.
  • A reduction of 2.5% in scholarship and grant-in-aid allocations for women’s basketball, football, and women’s soccer during the 2024-25 academic year.
  • A public reprimand and censure will be made official by releasing the negotiated resolution agreement.
  • The vacation (or revocation) of team and individual records associated with the affected sports during the time in which ineligible athletes participated.

Howard’s Joshua Middleton Named NEA Foundation Inaugural Graduate Fellow

Joshua Middleton, an Ed.D. candidate at Howard University, has been named the inaugural Community Schools Graduate Fellow by the NEA Foundation.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

The NEA Foundation has announced the selection of Joshua Middleton, an Ed.D. candidate at Howard University, as its inaugural Community Schools Graduate Fellow. This fellowship aims to bolster the NEA Foundation’s commitment to exploring the vital roles of educators’ voices and leadership in fostering student success through community schools.

Middleton, an accomplished educator and doctoral student, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He holds a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Florida State University. His professional journey includes significant contributions to teacher pipeline programs designed to reintegrate Black educators into classrooms, working with the Center for Black Educator Development. Additionally, as a graduate research assistant, he has undertaken independent research that investigates education policy, specifically focusing on racial disparities in school discipline.

Community Schools Fellow

“I am deeply honored to become the Community Schools Graduate Fellow with the NEA Foundation,” said the Howard student. “This opportunity allows me to contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of educators in community schools, which can improve the educational experiences of countless students and educators.” 

Community schools operate as collaborative hubs, created through partnerships among educators, families, policymakers, and community organizations. They are designed to address their local communities’ challenges and cultural contexts. These schools serve students year-round and provide support not only for children but also for adults, thereby helping to bridge educational opportunity gaps and dismantle systemic barriers that hinder inclusive and supportive learning environments.

The NEA Foundation’s Community Schools Initiative, which was launched in 2020, focuses primarily on the Deep South—a region noted for its challenges and under-resourced educational institutions. Insights gained from Middleton’s fellowship will yield essential knowledge to enhance community school practices, benefitting not only the Foundation but also other educational stakeholders across the nation. The ultimate goal is to ensure that students in the Deep South, and beyond, gain access to high-quality community schools that can transform their educational experiences.

“We are thrilled to have Joshua join us as our Community Schools graduate fellow,” stated Sara A. Sneed, president and CEO of the NEA Foundation. “His breadth of experience and dedication to educational equity are perfectly aligned with our mission. We are confident that his contributions will significantly enhance the community schools field’s understanding of the critical roles that educators can and do play in the design and implementation of exemplary community schools throughout the country.” 

Currently, the NEA Foundation’s Community Schools Initiative operates in Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, where it works to support public schools in under-resourced communities. 

Supporting HBCUs: Biden-Harris Historic Augustus F. Hawkins Grants Investment

The Biden-Harris administration has allocated $16 billion to support HBCUs, including the first-ever Augustus F. Hawkins grants.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

After highlighting the $16 billion allocated for Historically Black Colleges and Universities last week, the Biden-Harris administration has announced it is the first to award grants through the Augustus at Hawkins Centers of Excellence Program. This funding is part of the largest investment in HBCUs in U.S. history.

Dr. Dietra Trent, executive director of the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Excellence and Opportunity through HBCUs, emphasized the impact of the administration’s comprehensive financial support. “This money has been used for a number of things, including keeping students enrolled during COVID-19, infrastructure updates, and research and development funding,” said Trent. “The announcement we’re making today is a clear example of this administration’s raising the bar even higher on our commitment to these institutions and their students.”

Dr. Trent highlighted the Augustus F. Hawkins grants’ pivotal role in fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment.  “The Hawkins grant will increase and retain well-prepared teachers from diverse backgrounds serving in our nation’s most underserved elementary and secondary schools, said Trent.

The competitive grant program seeks to enhance teacher preparation programs by providing financial support to HBCUs, paving the way for future educators who can impact their communities. 

Trent says the Minority Science and Engineering Improvement Program grant, another portion of the $16 billion dollars in funding, will support long-range improvement to science and engineering education to increase the participation of underrepresented minorities, particularly minority women and minorities, in STEM careers.

“The announcement of these grants is a clear stance that we as an administration understand that representation across industries matters. It is proof that our actions are not performative but deeply intentional,” said Trent. “This work makes an impact on our communities, not just for these four years, but for many years to come.” 

The Power of HBCUs

Tony Allen is the chair of the President’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and president of Delaware State University. He highlighted the significance of HBCUs, citing their historical role in building the Black middle class. He emphasized that despite representing only 3% of all colleges in the United States, HBCUs produce nearly 20% of all Black graduates.

“What the President has known since 1972 when he started his first Senate campaign on the hallowed grounds of Delaware State University, is that we do more with less. The administration has clearly stated that less is no longer acceptable,” Allen said. “We do this because our students are trying to change their lives, for their families, their communities that they will ultimately serve. But we are an economic engine, wherever you find an HBCU, and collectively provide about $16 billion of economic impact onto the American economy.”

The administration has strategies to support smaller HBCUs, including the HBCU capital financing program and efforts to build capacity.

Kentucky State University to Inaugurate Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo as 19th President

Kentucky State University is set to celebrate milestone in its history with the official inauguration of Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo as the 19th president.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

Kentucky State University will celebrate the official inauguration of Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo as the 19th president of the institution on Friday, September 20, 2024. Dr. Akakpo assumed the presidency on July 1, 2023, and his leadership in the past year has focused on critical issues, including budget stabilization, enrollment growth, and the implementation of robust internal financial controls.

The inauguration ceremony promises to be a celebration of KSU’s students, programs, and future. With participation from local and state officials, this event signifies the importance of Dr. Akakpo’s vision and leadership for the university.

The day’s festivities will kick off at 11:00 AM with a luncheon hosted by CHI St. Joseph Health in the Carl M. Hill Student Center Ballroom. Following the luncheon, the official Oath of Office ceremony will occur at 2:00 PM in Bradford Hall. This highlight of the day is open to the public, inviting everyone in the community to partake in this occasion. Prior to the Oath of Office, attendees can explore KSU’s academic programs and research in the Student Center Courtyard from noon to 2:00 PM.

Dr. Akakpo’s Impact

Dr. Akakpo’s tenure has already seen significant achievements for KSU. The university experienced one of its largest graduation ceremonies in recent history. Furthermore, KSU proudly received its largest standalone grant to date—a remarkable $7 million award from the National Science Foundation.

In addition to these accomplishments, under his leadership, KSU has expanded its partnerships by providing dual credit opportunities to increase access for students across the Commonwealth. The university has also entered into articulation agreements with community colleges and technical schools, including the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, further broadening educational pathways for its students.

Previously, at Bluegrass Community and Technical College, he improved enrollment and advising processes and fostered partnerships with local high schools for dual enrollment and scholarships. As vice president of business, administrative, and student services at North Central State College, he successfully turned a budget deficit into positive financial status. Dr. Akakpo has also held leadership roles at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and Central State University. He holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Toledo and an MBA from Ashland University. 

Bowie State Club Inspires Male Students to Become Educators

Sophomore Zaire Bond has launched the Black Male Educators and Leaders at Bowie State University to inspire Black men to be educators.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

In a bid to inspire and empower Black men in the field of education, sophomore Zaire Bond has officially launched the Black Male Educators and Leaders Alliance at Bowie State University. The club aims to foster leadership qualities while encouraging a commitment to teaching.

This new organization is open to all undergraduate and graduate students, regardless of their academic majors. 

“The focus of the club is on leadership and education,” said Bond. “We want to provide the necessary tools for young Black men to become leaders which means providing positive input and reinforcement such as peer mentoring. Fifteen students have expressed interest in joining the club and I’ll meet with them tomorrow at 5:00 p.m. on the second floor in the library. They’re excited and I’m excited.”  

Bond’s journey into education was sparked as a high school sophomore when he learned about BSU’s Black Male Teachers College. His mother informed him about the program, leading him to meet Dr. Julius Davis, a mentoring figure at BSU.

A Legacy of Teaching

“My father teaches social studies and U.S. history and my grandmother was an elementary and high school teacher so it’s a part of my DNA,” said Bond. “But meeting Dr. Davis and other Black male teachers solidified my desire to become a teacher and study at Bowie State. And with the financial support I’m receiving from the Augustus F. Hawkins grant, I know I can attain my goal to become a Black male educator.” 

The Augustus F. Hawkins grant was awarded to Bowie State by the Department of Education in 2023. The grant provides $1.5 million over four years to support the Black Male Teachers program. This financial assistance has already made an impact. Significantly, 17 current Black male BSU students have their tuition, books, and, in some cases, room and board covered.

“The Augustus F. Hawkins grant has been a game changer,” said Dr. Davis. “We can offer Black male students support, mentors, experiential learning and financial backing which goes a long way in attracting students to the education field. All of those factors played a role in Zaire deciding to come to Bowie State.”

Bond emphasizes that the mission of the Black Male Educators and Leadership Alliance extends beyond merely preparing future teachers. “You don’t have to be a teacher to be an educator,” said Bond. “I want the Black Male Educators and Leadership Alliance to be known as an organization that provides all students the necessary tools to become leaders and positive reinforcement for Black men. My father taught me that focusing on relationship building and getting to know students is critical in the learning process.” 

As the club gears up for its inaugural meeting, Bond is actively recruiting members to join this important initiative. Once he completes his bachelor’s degree, he plans to pursue a master’s degree in educational leadership.