Morehouse Alumnus Takes Office as Los Angeles City Council Chairman

Marqueece Harris-Dawson has taken office as the city council chairman, emphasizing his commitment to tackling homelessness and housing affordability.

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Marqueece Harris-Dawson, a Morehouse College graduate, has officially assumed the Los Angeles City Council Chairman role. The council member, who has represented portions of South Los Angeles since his election in 2015, was sworn in during the Sept. 20 council meeting. He set forth an agenda centered on homelessness and housing affordability—issues that profoundly impact Black and Latino communities.

Marqueece Harris-Dawson at the swearing-in ceremony at City Hall. (Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times)

“When we have a situation where tens of thousands of people are living on our streets, it literally compromises everyone’s public safety,” Harris-Dawson said. 

Harris-Dawson has dedicated over two decades to community organizing, notably with the nonprofit Community Coalition, co-founded by Mayor Karen Bass. His firsthand experiences witnessing the repercussions of the crack cocaine epidemic and the 1992 L.A. riots have shaped his commitment to addressing systemic inequalities in his district, which encompasses the  West Adams, View Heights, Hyde Park, Van Ness, Baldwin Hills, and Adams-Normandie neighborhoods.

A Proven Leader

Political consultant Dermot Givens praised Harris-Dawson as a natural consensus-builder. Harris-Dawson garnered unanimous support for his leadership position without internal conflict among colleagues. He’s a very nice guy, and he’ll continue that consensus-building as council president,” Givens said.

The council voted 14-0 in May to elevate Harris-Dawson following Paul Krekorian’s tenure who held the position since October 2022. With his deep roots in South Los Angeles, where he grew up before relocating due to gang violence, Harris-Dawson understands the challenges facing his constituents. He previously worked on initiatives related to education and employment.

As council president, he plans to establish a new committee focused on “unarmed response” to traffic stops and explore the potential for unarmed civilian teams to address certain traffic issues. This initiative aligns with ongoing discussions about reforming policing practices in Los Angeles. 

Harris-Dawson studied political science and mathematics at Morehouse College. He was a member of the Class of 1995. 

Morehouse College Senior DaQuan Brown Launches Children’s Book to Empower Black Boys

Daquan Brown’s “Just Like You!: ABC Edition” invites young Black boys to dream big, showcasing an array of professions.

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Morehouse College senior DaQuan Brown embodies the school’s vision of developing Black men through his academic pursuits and creative endeavors. A member of the Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Brown has recently authored a children’s book titled “Just Like You!: ABC Edition,” which aims to empower young Black boys to envision and realize their potential.

Brown’s journey into authorship stems from a desire to foster inclusivity and representation in children’s literature. “Just Like You!: ABC Edition” showcases Black boys in professional roles that align with the first letter of each word of the alphabet. In a deliberate move away from portraying only athletes and entertainers, Brown highlights doctors, engineers, and other career paths. 

“That was intentional,” Brown explained. “I want Black boys to see different things they can do besides playing sports or being entertainers. Not a lot of people know they can be doctors or engineers, and I wanted to bring that faith that you can be whatever you want.”

A Legacy of Storytellers

Brown wrote superhero narratives as a kid and explored screenwriting during his teenage years. He comes from a family of storytellers. His mother is a published poet, and his grandfather authored a children’s book. 

However, the idea for “Just Like You!” blossomed during a developmental literacy class at Morehouse, where students were tasked with drafting a children’s book. Taking the assignment seriously, Brown refined his submission, enlisting a friend for illustrations. His efforts caught the attention of a publisher, paving the way for his book’s release.

More than just a class project, Brown’s motivation is rooted in his commitment to uplift the young Black boys of his community. Growing up on the Eastside of Atlanta, he feels a profound responsibility to give back. 

“Anything I do in this world is catered to my community,” he stated. “I want to have that presence and just be that leader, innovator, and essentially be the neighborhood hero one day.”

“Just Like You!: ABC Edition” is available now on Amazon.

Team Harris-Walz Launches HBCU Homecoming Tour Across Battleground States

With less than 40 days until election day, the Harris-Walz campaign is launching an HBCU Homecoming Tour across battleground states.

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With less than 40 days until the pivotal election day, the Harris-Walz campaign is ramping up its efforts to connect with voters. It is launching an ambitious HBCU Homecoming Tour across essential battleground states. This tour underscores the campaign’s dedication to engaging directly with Black communities during the highly significant homecoming season at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Homecoming celebrations at HBCUs are vibrant, drawing alums and students together to celebrate their shared heritage and achievements. The Harris-Walz campaign aims to harness this festive spirit, deploying trusted surrogates including local Black elected officials, national leaders, renowned HBCU alumni, and prominent figures from the hip-hop and cultural spheres to critical states such as North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

Kicking off the tour this Saturday, the campaign will host a tailgate event at Winston-Salem State University to celebrate the school’s 132nd Founders Day and the upcoming football game against Bowie State University.

The Homecoming Tour

The tentative schedule includes stops at several HBCUs throughout September and October, featuring:

  • Winston-Salem State University: September 28th weekend
  • Lincoln University: October 12th weekend
  • Virginia State University: October 12th weekend
  • Howard University: October 19th weekend
  • North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University: October 19th weekend
  • Clark Atlanta University: October 19th weekend
  • Morehouse and Spelman College: October 26th weekend

The Harris-Walz campaign has emphasized its commitment to earning every vote. In conjunction with National Voter Registration Day, National HBCU Week, and National Black Voter Day, the campaign organized numerous canvassing events both on-site and virtually across 60 HBCU campuses in states including Virginia, North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. 

During a panel discussion on National Voter Registration Day, Vice President Kamala Harris engaged with Black voters about her vision for an Opportunity Economy and its potential benefits for the community. Simultaneously, Governor Tim Walz addressed students at the Atlanta University Consortium, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by efforts to suppress voting rights, echoing historical movements for civil rights.

A proud alumna of Howard University, Vice President Harris recognizes the transformative role HBCUs have played in American democracy over the past two centuries. Under the Biden-Harris administration, record investments of $17 billion have been directed towards HBCUs, underscoring their importance in higher education.

Earlier this semester, Vice President Harris penned a heartfelt letter to HBCU students, emphasizing the gravity of the upcoming election and the power of their votes. In a show of support, over 50 HBCU football legends—including 10 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees—endorsed her candidacy and that of Governor Walz, stating, “Given her integrity, values, and demonstrated commitment to justice and equality of opportunity, we are confident that as President she will serve the best interests of all Americans.”

Tuskegee University’s Aviation Program Earns Accreditation

Tuskegee University has officially received accreditation for its aviation program, set to launch in January 2025.

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Tuskegee University’s aviation program has officially received accreditation and will launch in January 2025. This achievement makes Tuskegee the only historically Black institution in Alabama to offer a fully accredited aviation program.

Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, provost and senior vice president of academic affairs, expressed his pride in this milestone. “We have responded to the demand for pilots,” Hargrove told WSFA News. “There are more than 10,000 to 15,000 pilots that are needed here in the U.S.”

Tuskegee University, a land-grant historically Black university in Tuskegee, Alabama.
Tuskegee University, a land-grant historically Black university in Tuskegee, Alabama.

The newly accredited program will offer a bachelor’s degree in aviation science with a pilot track, featuring a blend of essential coursework and practical flight training. Students will have the unique opportunity to learn at Moton Field, a site where the historic Tuskegee Airmen honed their flying skills.

Hannah Heaston, an Air Force ROTC program sophomore, expressed her excitement about the new program and flying. “It’s like a roller coaster on steroids,” said Heaston. “It’s very fun. It’s very relaxing. Once you get in the air, it’s very peaceful.”

The program benefits from robust support, including $6.7 million in federal funding secured by Alabama Senator Katie Britt. This funding will help equip the program with the necessary resources to ensure students can achieve their FAA certifications while gaining hands-on experience crucial for their future careers.

With its accreditation now in place, Tuskegee University‘s aviation program is poised to significantly impact the industry and nurture the next generation of pilots. To build pipeline partnerships, Tuskegee works with local high schools offering aviation-focused career pathways.

In March, Hargrove said the program would start with approximately 25 students and grow to more than 200. Prospective students interested in the first aviation science degree program cohort should submit their applications by Oct. 30.

AAMU Alumna Honored for Leadership and Impact in Utility Services

Glenda S. Thomas, an alumna of Alabama A&M, has been honored as one of Birmingham Business Journal’s Top Birmingham Women for 2024.

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Birmingham Business Journal has recognized Glenda S. Thomas, president & CEO of Electra Grid Solutions, as one of its Top Birmingham Women for 2024. The Birmingham native is an alumna of Alabama A&M University, where she graduated with a degree in accounting in 1999.

Under her guidance, EGS, a premier utility services contractor, and Electra Lines have successfully expanded into new markets across the U.S., providing utility contracting services. Reflecting on her recognition, Thomas expressed her surprise and gratitude.  “I was genuinely surprised when I received the news,” she stated. “It’s an incredible honor to be nominated alongside so many accomplished women in Birmingham. As a Birmingham native and a proud graduate of Ramsay High School, this recognition is truly a dream come true.”

In addition to her roles at EGS and Electra Lines, Thomas is the chief principal of Thomas & Associates Consulting, which specializes in diversity, business development, and sustainability consulting. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes empowering her team and contributing to the electric utility industry’s growth. “My goal is to provide vision and leadership for my team while creating opportunities for growth that highlight our suite of services,” Thomas explained.

Before founding EGS, Thomas served as the supplier diversity manager for Southern Company, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing the company’s supplier diversity initiatives and supporting small businesses. “I’m grateful for my years of experience with Southern Company, and it has prepared me to lead Electra Grid Solutions and Electra Lines,” she remarked.

Thomas Returns To The Hill

Formerly, Thomas was a Phi Beta Lambda business fraternity and Student Government Association member at AAMU. She continues to give back to her alma mater through the Youth Motivation Task Force. 

“It’s always great to return to campus,” Thomas says. “I began my journey here, and the lessons learned on The Hill can take you anywhere you want to be in life. Never give up on your dreams.”

Team of HBCUs Gets $3M for Semiconductor Research

Seven HBCUs have secured a $3 million NSF grant to advance semiconductor research and enhance workforce development.

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In an achievement aimed at advancing semiconductor research and enhancing workforce development, researchers from seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities have secured a three-year, $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation.

This initiative is part of the NSF’s $10.5 million inaugural Advancing Research Capacity at HBCUs through Exploration and Innovation Ideas Lab. ARC-HBCU aims to foster interdisciplinary research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at HBCUs.

Central State University will lead the “Partnership for Advancing Research Capacity in Semiconductors at Historically Black Colleges and Universities” project. The collaboration includes Fayetteville State University, Hampton University, Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, Meharry Medical College, and Coppin State University.

NC A&T Semiconductor Researchers

NC A&T will receive $688,000 over the grant’s three-year duration. Michael Curry, Ph.D., and Jerald Dumas, Ph.D., NC A&T Department of Nanoengineering at the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering faculty members, are spearheading efforts focused on sustainable biomanufacturing and workforce development. 

Dr. Michael Curry
Dr. Jerald Dumas

Despite previous funding attempts, disparities remain between HBCUs and predominantly White institutions regarding research capabilities. “Less than 10% of HBCUs are considered R2 institutions and are equipped with the appropriate resources and funding that supports the capacity for high-impact research,” Curry explained.

Both researchers are committed to addressing these inequities. Dr. Curry specializes in sustainable biomanufacturing using plant-based materials, while Dr. Dumas is establishing a bio-inspired polymer engineering lab. Their collaboration aims to develop processes to mitigate the waste created during semiconductor manufacturing.

“We have to have a way to deal with that waste, given the push to increase production. ” Curry said. “Part of our efforts is to lead the development of technology and mechanisms by which we can sustainably develop tech that can mitigate or remediate the waste that will be generated.”

A significant aspect of the grant is its emphasis on workforce development. The team plans to introduce certificate programs and training opportunities to build a skilled workforce at varying educational levels. “My passion is entrepreneurship and learning,” said Dumas. “Grants like this one is the perfect opportunity to provide training not only to faculty but to students as well.”

“The semiconductor industry is going to require a lot of the workforce that doesn’t necessarily need an advanced degree, but maybe they need a certificate, a reskilling, so they can potentially change careers to an incredibly vibrant and emerging field that will have a huge impact on our nation’s economy,” added Curry.

Delaware State University Celebrates New Buildings With Beam Signing 

Delaware State University celebrated a construction milestone of its Early Childhood Innovation Center with a beam-signing event.

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The construction of the Early Childhood Innovation Center at Delaware State University is officially halfway complete. University officials and state education leaders gathered for a beam signing event on Sept. 25th to commemorate this milestone. This occasion allowed attendees to leave their mark on a steel beam of the two-story facility.

Among those present were DSU President Tony Allen, Delaware Secretary of Education Dr. Mark Holodick, ECIC executive director Dr. Kim Krzanowski, DSU Education Department Chair Dr. Shelley Rouser, and members of the DSU Board of Trustees and other university and state officials. 

The Early Childhood Innovation Center

Dr. Holodick highlighted the collaborative effort that has brought the ECIC project to fruition. “It came about through partnerships between the Governor’s Office, the state Department of Education and Delaware State University, early childhood advocates and experts, all working to plan for an Early Childhood Innovation Center that does an outstanding job of preparing professionals to work with young children, while simultaneously providing a space for our youngest learners,” he stated.

The ECIC, projected for completion by March 2025, will serve multiple functions. The first floor will house DSU’s Early Childhood Lab School, while the second floor will accommodate the ECIC itself. This center aims to elevate the standards of early childhood care by providing essential training to childcare providers, enabling them to become certified as child development associates.

President Allen emphasized the project’s importance. “This is making sure that our childcare providers in the state have the right education and training, something that they have been wanting and deserve,” he said.

Dr. Rouser expressed enthusiasm about the anticipated impact of the ECIC. “The beam that is being signed today represents not only support to this building, but also the support that is going to happen inside of this building,” she remarked. “Our youngest learners – our little Hornets – are going to get the support they need for a strong foundation to take them to K-12 and beyond.”

DSU’s Agriculture Building

The ECIC is not the only construction project underway at DSU. Work has begun west of the site on a new agricultural academic building. The building will feature innovative design elements such as living walls and green roofs. Dr. Cherese Winstead Casson, dean of the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, noted that the building will focus on research, teaching, and community engagement while utilizing advanced technology.

“It will prioritize experiential learning and flexible research environments to accommodate community stakeholders through strategically designed collaborative spaces,” said Casson.

The 15,000-square-foot-building will include lab spaces, interactive classrooms, auditoriums, a demonstration kitchen and a 21st century emerging technology center. The project is slated to be done in June 2025.

Simmons College of Kentucky Unveils New Residence Hall in Historic Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Simmons College of Kentucky is celebrating the grand opening of its new residence hall, marking a historic milestone.

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Simmons College of Kentucky is celebrating a significant milestone in its rich history with a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for its new residence, which took place on Thursday.

Simmons College says the opening of this new residence hall symbolizes an investment in student living conditions and reinforces the college’s ongoing legacy of providing a holistic and enriching educational experience.

The ceremony commemorates the completion of the residence hall’s remodeling and unveils ambitious plans for future construction and expansion. In a remarkable announcement during the program, the college revealed a multi-million dollar donation from a private benefactor. This generous contribution aims to enhance Simmons College’s mission of offering modern, accessible housing options for students while supporting broader development initiatives.

“This is a historic moment for Simmons College and for our community,” said Dr. Kevin W. Cosby, President of Simmons College. “This residence hall is not only a place where students are housed but a foundation for future leaders to grow, learn, and shape the world around them.”

The new residence hall is Simmons College’s first in over a century. It features modern amenities for Simmons College students.

Future construction plans include additional academic spaces and state-of-the-art facilities tailored to support the academic journey of students. These developments align with Simmons College’s overarching goal of expanding its campus footprint to foster a more conducive learning environment.

Attendees of the ribbon-cutting ceremony had the opportunity to tour the newly opened facility, gain insights into the college’s ambitious development projects, and hear from President Cosby and other influential community leaders. 

Hampton University Celebrates Alumnus on Historic Promotion to Four-Star General

Hampton University proudly celebrates Lt. Gen. Xavier T. Brunson’s historic promotion to four-star General, which marks him as the new commander of U.S. Forces Korea.

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Hampton proudly celebrates the remarkable achievement of its alumnus, Lt. General Xavier T. Brunson, who has recently made history with his promotion to the rank of four-star General in the United States Army. This significant milestone designates him as the new commander of U.S. Forces Korea, where he will succeed General Paul LaCamera and take command of approximately 28,500 U.S. troops deployed in South Korea. General Brunson will oversee critical commands, including the United Nations Command and the Combined Forces Command in his pivotal role. He will focus on deterring North Korean aggression and ensuring regional stability.

“Hampton University is incredibly proud of General Brunson’s achievement,” said Hampton University President Lt. Gen. Darrell K. Williams (USA, Retired). “His remarkable leadership and commitment to our nation exemplify the values of excellence, service, and integrity we instill in every Hamptonian. His journey from our campus to one of the highest military ranks in the U.S. Army is a testament to the transformative power of a Hampton education.”

This promotion is not just a milestone in Lt. Gen. Brunson’s career, but also a significant step towards diversity and representation in military leadership. It positions him among a select group of African American military leaders who have achieved the highest echelons of command within the U.S. Armed Forces. 

Brunson’s Background

General Brunson, a 1990 graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He began his military career as a commissioned Infantry Officer in the U.S. Army. His trajectory includes notable command roles across both Conventional and Special Operations Forces. He participated in operations such as Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Inherent Resolve. Alongside his undergraduate education, he furthered his education with a Master of Arts in Human Resource Development from Webster University. He followed that up earning a Master of Science in National Security Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.

Over the years, General Brunson’s distinguished service has garnered numerous accolades, including recognition from various U.S. Army Regimental Associations and civic awards, such as the Omega Psi Phi Leadership Award. 

“General Brunson’s promotion is a beacon of inspiration for our students and alumni,” President Williams added. “It reminds us that the path to greatness is paved not only with ambition but also with a commitment to service. His leadership has touched countless lives, and his rise to this esteemed rank is a testament to his unwavering dedication to our nation’s security.”

ASU and Faulkner University Sign Agreement to Fast-Track Law Degrees

ASU and Faulkner University have signed an articulation agreement that allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree and juris doctorate in just six years.

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In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at streamlining legal education, Alabama State University and Faulkner University held a joint news conference on September 24. The presidents of both institutions signed an articulation agreement that will allow undergraduate students at ASU to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a Juris degree in just six years. Traditionally, students pursuing both degrees would require a minimum of seven years to complete their studies.

Alabama State University is a public historically black university in Montgomery, Alabama.

The agreement was formalized by ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., and Faulkner President Dr. Mitchell Henry, who signed the document before a crowd of enthusiastic students and academic representatives from both universities. This collaboration between ASU and Faulkner’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law marks a significant advancement in educational opportunities for students aspiring to enter the legal profession.

“It is an honor today to stand before you on the cusp of our signing this legal document between our two outstanding institutions of higher education,” stated President Ross. “Today, we advance ASU’s mission of providing excellence, research, and service so as to develop our students to become global change-agents and create within them a positive ‘CommUniversity’ atmosphere, which supports one and all.”

Joining the presidents at the conference were Dr. Carl Pettis, ASU’s provost and vice president of Academic Affairs; Dr. Charles Campbell, dean of Faulkner’s Jones School of Law; and Dr. Tanjula Petty, ASU’s vice president for institutional effectiveness, strategic initiatives, and transformation, who played pivotal roles in orchestrating the agreement.

President Henry expressed pride in collaborating with ASU, noting its historic legacy and impressive alumni. “With this agreement that we have consummated today, we expect that your students who will be a part of this new program to continue making history for your university,” said Henry. 

Alabama A&M University Awarded $8.1M to Achieve 100% Zero Emissions by 2031

Alabama A&M University’s Bulldog Transit System has received an $8 million grant to achieve a fully emissions-free transit system by 2031.

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Alabama A&M’s Bulldog Transit System has secured an impressive $8.1 million grant through the Competitive Low-No Emissions Program for Fiscal Year 2023. This significant funding aims to expedite BTS’s ambitious goal of establishing a fully zero-emissions transit system by 2031.

Since initiating its sustainability efforts in 2017, BTS has progressively transitioned from fossil fuel-powered buses to battery-electric alternatives. The newly awarded grant will facilitate essential enhancements to the existing infrastructure, including a significant solar power microgrid system expansion, increasing its capacity to 2.5 megawatts. This solar power initiative is crucial as it supports the electric storage system that fuels charging stations and bus facilities.

“This funding allows us to expand on the infrastructure we’ve already built and to enhance our solar energy capabilities,” said Marshall Chimwedzi, director of AAMU BTS. He emphasized that their project’s second phase will involve adding charging stations, a driver’s lounge, and microgrid monitoring rooms within the bus storage facility. Upgrades will include enclosing the service bay and modernizing information systems with real-time monitors for operational efficiency.

The extensive project will also feature an eight-bay expansion for the bus storage station and workforce development programs aimed at training technicians in solar and electric bus maintenance. Furthermore, BTS plans to acquire a zero-emissions autonomous shuttle, an electric shuttle bus, and an electric service truck. The timeline for this grant stretches from Sept. 16, 2024, to March 30, 2031, with the target of achieving total zero emissions by the end of this period.

Furthering the Zero Emissions Goal

Alabama A&M University has made significant strides in sustainability over the years, becoming the first Historically Black College or University to implement electric buses, complete with a charging station and dedicated bus storage facility, back in 2019. In 2021, the University further reinforced its commitment to renewable energy by receiving an additional $4.2 million grant to expand its fleet of electric buses, construct a service bay, and install a battery-electric storage system.

NCCU Welcomes Surge of Adult Learners Thanks to Project Kitty Hawk

Project Kitty Hawk has significantly boosted adult learner enrollment at North Carolina Central University, growing from 10 to 221 students in under a year.

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Project Kitty Hawk, an initiative founded by the state of North Carolina, is making significant strides in increasing adult learner enrollment at North Carolina Central University. Launched by the General Assembly in 2021, the project aims to assist public universities in recruiting and supporting individuals aged 25 and older who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree.

Since beginning its partnership with NCCU in October 2023, Project Kitty Hawk has experienced remarkable growth. The program started with just ten students and has expanded to 221 adult learners this fall.

North Carolina Central University, a public historically black university in Durham, North Carolina.
North Carolina Central University, a public historically black university in Durham, North Carolina.

“There might be people who want an education but have work, family and elderly parents,” said Kimberly Phifer-McGhee, Ed.D., associate vice chancellor for NCCU Extended Studies and Student Support. 

Andrew Kelly, president and CEO of Project Kitty Hawk, emphasized the critical factor of time in higher education for adult learners. “We hear a lot about higher education affordability, but the biggest thing adult students lack is time,” said Kelly. “Adult learners are not thinking of traditional fall and winter semesters and December break. How can I enroll and complete a degree in the quickest way possible?” 

Project Kitty Hawk: Designed for Adult Learners

Despite low in-state tuition rates at North Carolina public universities, many adult learners are enrolling in out-of-state online programs, often paying two to three times more than in-state tuition. Project Kitty Hawk addresses this challenge by offering fully online courses taught by NCCU faculty, providing the flexibility that adult students require.

Marquita Lyons-Smith, DNP, director of the RN to BSN program, reported a dramatic rise from five students in the initial course to over 50 currently enrolled. “That is the most we’ve ever had in the RN to BSN program,” she noted.

In addition to facilitating online courses, Project Kitty Hawk supports NCCU by condensing academic terms from 16 weeks to eight and assigning “success coaches” for continuous support. The introduction of these measures has led to a notable increase in adult enrollment, particularly within the RN-BSN program in the Department of Nursing.

With NCCU’s existing 37 online programs—including bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate options—the university is determined to enhance its offerings further to avoid being left behind in the evolving educational landscape.

Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon highlighted the transformative potential of Project Kitty Hawk. “Through initiatives like Project Kitty Hawk, North Carolina Central University is creating new pathways to success for learners of all ages, including adult students seeking to advance their careers,” she said.

Miles College Acquiring Birmingham-Southern College Campus in Historic Deal

Miles College has officially signed a purchase agreement for the 192-acre campus of Birmingham Southern College.

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In a significant development for higher education in Alabama, Miles College has officially signed a purchase agreement for the 192-acre campus of Birmingham-Southern College. This unanimous decision by both institutions’ Boards of Trustees follows a letter of intent submitted by Miles shortly after BSC discontinued normal operations on May 31, 2024. 

 Photo courtesy of Birmingham-Southern College.

“It is clear that institutions like Miles College continue to serve as powerful engines of economic growth and opportunity,” said Miles College President Bobbie Knight. “For generations, Miles College has been a cornerstone of progress in our community. This opportunity is a significant next step in our vision to lift our college, campus, and community.”

BSC President Daniel B. Coleman echoed these sentiments, highlighting the alignment of missions between the two institutions. “We are very pleased to take this next step with Miles College,” said President Coleman. “Our hope has been to find a buyer whose mission paralleled BSC’s mission of educating young people for lives of service and significance, and whose presence on the Hilltop would also benefit the surrounding communities who have been such good neighbors to BSC for more than 100 years.”

The acquisition presents opportunities for academic expansion, innovation, and research, particularly with Miles recently receiving a $3 million collaborative grant from the National Science Foundation. This funding will support partnerships with notable institutions like Howard University and Tennessee State University, further enhancing educational opportunities.

While the purchase agreement encompasses physical assets, Coleman clarified that BSC will remain operational as a corporate entity during its wind-down phase. Both presidents anticipate a smooth transition, aiming to honor BSC’s legacy while building a promising future at Miles College.

The BSC campus will remain closed to all visitors until further notice.

Wilberforce University Introduces Women’s Gymnastics Program

Wilberforce University has made a groundbreaking announcement by introducing its women’s gymnastics program.

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In a significant milestone for both the university and the broader community of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Wilberforce University has announced the addition of a women’s gymnastics program. 

Wilberforce President Dr. Vann Newkirk further emphasized the significance of the new gymnastics program. “The introduction of the women’s gymnastics team at Wilberforce University represents more than just a new athletic program. It embodies our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all students, particularly young Black women, can thrive and pursue their passions,” said Newkirk. “This initiative will benefit our students by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and by promoting physical and mental well-being.”  

Leading The Way

The gymnastics team’s establishment follows the historic formation of the first HBCU gymnastics program at Fisk University in 2022. Following that success, Talladega College initiated a program in Alabama, which it cut due to funding issues in 2023. 

Leading The Team

Wilberforce appointed Dr. Morgan Byrd, DPT as the gymnastics head coach. Dr. Byrd is a former collegiate gymnast, seasoned physical therapist and Brown Girls Do Gymnastics mentor.

A Collaborative Effort

Derrin Moore, founder of the advocacy group Brown Girls Do Gymnastics, played a pivotal role in establishing the new program. “They get to be at an HBCU, and they get to do the sport that they love and that they’ve been working on their whole life, to be collegiate gymnast,” Moore said. “I know that there are plenty of girls who have wanted to go to HBCUs forever. It’s a part of their family legacy.”

To assist with this, Brown Girls Do Gymnastics is actively creating a booster club and fundraising initiatives to secure financial support for travel, gear, and scholarships.

City of Winston-Salem Celebrates WSSU Day on Sept. 27

The City of Winston-Salem has proclaimed September 27, 2024, as “Winston-Salem State University Day” to honor the institution’s significant impact.

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In a tribute to its local university, the City of Winston-Salem has officially proclaimed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024, as “Winston-Salem State University Day.” Mayor Allen Joines presented the proclamation to Chancellor Bonita Brown during a recent city council meeting on Sept. 16, celebrating the institution’s deep-rooted connection to the community.

“We’re so proud that Winston-Salem State University is a part of the fabric of the city. The school makes our city even more special,” Joines said. Chancellor Brown emphasized the significance of WSSU as not just a center of education but as the city’s public university, proudly bearing its name. 

To show support for the university, Brown encouraged all citizens to wear red on Sept. 27. Residents wearing red are invited to share their photos on social media. The community will use the hashtags #WSSUDay, #WeSeeRed, and #RamsTakeCharge to create a vibrant online presence that celebrates the university’s contributions.

The proclamation also underscores several key accomplishments of WSSU, including its impressive $500 million economic impact on the Piedmont Triad region. Additionally, national media outlets have recognized WSSU as the #1 university in North Carolina for economic and social mobility.

More than 30,000 alumni carry forth the university’s motto, “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve,” illustrating the institution’s commitment to not only education but also service to the community. As a designated Regional Public University, WSSU plays a crucial role in the local economy and cultural landscape, serving a diverse student population that includes a significant number of students of color, first-generation college students, low-income students, and veterans.

Sept. 27 also marks the university’s annual Day of Giving and its Founder’s Day Celebration. Alumni, faculty, staff, students, and members of the public are encouraged to contribute financially to support campus-wide student success initiatives. WSSU’s goal is to raise $325,000 this year.

Benedict College Student Awarded $692K After Landlord’s Throws Out His Belongings

Ansel Postell, a Benedict College student, was awarded $692,000 after a jury found that his former landlord negligently discarded his possessions.

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In a striking legal victory, Ansel Postell, an honors student at Benedict College, was awarded $692,000 by a Richland County jury following an experience with his former landlord. The case arose when Postell returned to his Columbia apartment in July 2022 to find it emptied and his belongings given away despite having paid six months’ rent in advance. 

Postell’s mother had paid the rental company Campus Advantage $3,810 to secure their lease at The Rowan, an apartment complex. Upon discovering that his possessions—including clothes, electronics, and a custom-built computer valued at over $6,000—had been discarded, Postell attempted to seek compensation from the company. However, his efforts were met with silence, leading him to file a lawsuit.

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After three hours of deliberation, the jury awarded Postell $692,000, which included $230,000 for actual damages and $462,500 as punitive damages. “I’m glad I was given the opportunity for this to be taken up in court, and the jury was able to make a decision on the evidence that we provided,” Postell commented after the trial. He graduated from Benedict magna cum laude with a degree in cybersecurity in May.

The Trial

In court, the timeline of events painted a troubling picture. Despite the company’s initial admission of fault, it refused to compensate Postell or his mother, Shawndolena Postell, for the lost items. As outlined in the lawsuit, dealing with the aftermath of the incident severely disrupted Postell’s academic performance during the critical first days of the new semester, jeopardizing scholarships and benefits he had previously earned.

Todd Lyle, Postell’s attorney, noted that two years ago, he had offered to settle the case for $75,000, but the offer that was rejected by the defendants. 

The trial lasted four days under the scrutiny of Judge Milton Kimpson, who presided over the proceedings. Beyond punitive damages, the jurors found Campus Advantage guilty of unlawfully seizing Postell’s property, breaching rental contracts, and demonstrating negligence in supervision of their employees. 

“Almost half a million dollars in punitive damages is sending a huge message,” Lyle said. “This case could have been settled for far less, but their obstinance and insistence that they did no wrong ultimately drove this verdict as high as it did,” Lyle said.