Morehouse College has received a historic $20 million anonymous gift to establish six endowed professorships and enhance academics, marking the largest donation for faculty positions in the college’s history.
In a landmark achievement, Morehouse College has announced the receipt of a transformative $20 million anonymous gift. This unprecedented contribution will establish six endowed professorships. It also marks Morehouse’s largest donation designated for faculty positions in the college’s history.
The endowed professorships aim to bolster innovation and research across various academic divisions, including the Divisions of Business and Economics, Humanities, Social Sciences, Media, and the Arts and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
“Our faculty are the heartbeat of this institution. They lead our academic programs, develop the intellect of our students, and challenge them to go out in the world and be great. They have fueled the success of thousands of Morehouse Men,” said Dr. David A. Thoma, President of Morehouse College. “This transformational $20 million gift will allow us to increase the ranks of our esteemed and talented professors so that we can uphold the legacy of excellence in our classrooms as our as veteran faculty retire.”
Making Men of Consequences
This generous gift is part of the “Making Men of Consequence” Campaign, the largest fundraising initiative in Morehouse’s history, with a total goal of $500 million. The campaign aims to expand scholarship opportunities for deserving students, recruit top-tier faculty, innovate academic programs, and fund campus improvements. The newly announced donation aligns explicitly with the campaign’s “Inquiry with Distinction” pillar. The pillar is designed to enhance academic investment through distinguished faculty positions and innovative programming.
“Investing in Morehouse College’s talented faculty is critical to maintaining the College’s reputation and relevance as a world-class institution of higher learning,” said Provost Kendrick Brown, Ph.D. “At Morehouse, we are developing men with integrity and intellect to become 21st-century leaders and innovators. That takes resources—not only funds for technology and classroom materials but also a significant investment in attracting accomplished professors to Morehouse who will continue to elevate our profile in all academic areas.” Including this anonymous gift, the campaign has raised nearly $290 million. Hodan Hassan, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, thanked the anonymous donor. “This significant gift fuels our ongoing commitment to excellence in higher education and our ability to offer students transformative academic experiences that help them to reach their full potential,” said Hassan.
Alabama State University alumnus Kim Salter donated 35 men’s suits valued at $3,500 to empower students needing professional attire for job interviews and important events.
Kim Salter, an alumnus of Alabama State University, has donated 35 men’s dress suits valued at $3,500 to help students “dress for success.” The donation aims to support students who need formal attire for various occasions, including job interviews and presentations.
Salter is a Montgomery native, an ASU graduate of the Dr. Percy J. Vaughn, Jr. College of Business Administration, and the owner of Evening Out Formal Wear Inc. He presented the suits to the Division of Student Affairs to allow students to present themselves confidently in professional settings. The suits will be free of charge to deserving students within the college.
A Donation Lead By Inspiration
“I was inspired to do this by my friend and a fellow ASU alumnus, Delbert Madison,” Salter said. “By donating my suits to my ASU, I can help lift up our COBA students, so they look good during internships, ASU functions, employment interviews, and all the other times when dressing professionally is important.”
Madison is a senior vice president at ServisFirst Bank and member of the university’s Board of Trustees. He shared with Salter the needs of some students struggling to find suitable clothing for important events.
“When Kim found out that his surplus suits would help our students look as professionally as they are educated here, he quickly and gladly donated them for the use of our young Hornet men,” Madison stated. He and Salter have been friends since childhood and have played intramural basketball at ASU.
Additionally, Dr. Malinda W. Swoope, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, expressed gratitude for Salter’s generous contribution. “We greatly appreciate when our alumni step up and give back through donations of all kinds and in the case of Mr. Salter, a rack of beautiful brand-new suits,” Swoope said. “This alumni gift will provide our students with the proper attire to represent themselves and our University in the best way possible, and we thank Mr. Salter for believing in our school.”
PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation have announced the launch of the “Taste of Tomorrow” initiative, aimed at increasing Black representation in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Despite the rapid growth of STEM jobs, Black professionals currently represent only 9% of the workforce. To address this disparity, PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation are investing $350,000 in financial support and additional resources to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), particularly for students pursuing careers in food science and technology.
Kent Montgomery, senior vice president of industry relations and multicultural development at PepsiCo, emphasized the vital role of HBCUs in nurturing Black talent. “HBCUs are a critical pillar of impact, influence, and opportunity, nurturing the next generation of Black leaders,” said Montgomery. “We are eager to continue our long-standing commitment of supporting diverse talent in our business and provide students with the resources needed to thrive in their careers and make a positive impact on the world.”
As part of the initiative, the PepsiCo Foundation will allocate $250,000 in scholarships for HBCU students pursuing STEM degrees across nine HBCUs for the 2025 academic year. The institutions include Benedict College, Bethune-Cookman University, Florida A&M University, Hampton University, Howard University, Jackson State University, Morgan State University, North Carolina Central University, and Prairie View A&M University. The application period will run from Sept. 9, 2024, through Dec. 2, 2024, with details available at PepsiCo’s scholarship portal.
Florida A&M and Prairie View A&M universities will also receive $100,000 in funding to enhance their STEM programs. This investment aims to foster innovation and support an R&D educational workshop series with hands-on learning opportunities. The workshops will cover topics from the latest trends in food sustainability to product development.
“The goal is to inspire students to think critically and creatively about how they can contribute to the future of food, equipping them with both the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the industry, Montgomery explained.
C.D. Glin, HBCU graduate and president of the PepsiCo Foundation, expressed a personal connection to the initiative. “By investing in HBCU students and supporting STEM education, we hope to inspire a new era of STEM professionals to not only change the future of this industry but provide long-term impact in their communities,” Glin said.
To engage students and fans on campus, PepsiCo’s popular brands—Pepsi® Zero Sugar and Doritos®—will be involved in culinary innovations led by in-house chefs and food-science experts. Campaign spokesperson and HBCU alum 2 Chainz will also participate, bringing his passion for supporting HBCU students to the forefront of the initiative.
“As an HBCU Alum, I’m excited to share my platform and partner with the PepsiCo’s Taste of Tomorrow initiative to support diversity in STEM and encourage students, all while bringing awareness to the talented graduates coming from HBCUs entering the workforce.” said 2 Chainz.
Regarding the partnership with 2 Chainz, Montgomery noted, “He brings a fresh, relatable perspective that bridges the worlds of entertainment, business, and education, making him the ideal partner to inspire and engage students in a meaningful way.”
The “Taste of Tomorrow” initiative also aims to combat systemic barriers that have hindered Black professionals’ growth in STEM fields, such as limited access to advanced STEM courses and lack of representation. By focusing on HBCUs that serve as cultural and educational hubs, PepsiCo seeks to create flavorful futures for students by advancing STEM education and promoting culinary innovation.
Montgomery explained the initiative’s broader goals. “We want students to see that they are the innovators of the future. The ‘Taste of Tomorrow’ campaign is about empowering HBCU students to take their creativity and passion for science, technology, and food to the next level,” he stated. “This initiative is a call to action to step into their full potential and know that companies like PepsiCo are here to invest in their ideas and dreams.”
The funds allocated under this initiative will primarily be used for scholarships, on-campus resources, and workshops, further enabling students to gain hands-on experience in food science and related STEM fields.
For more details about the initiative and how to apply for scholarships, click here.
Don’t miss this! The fourth annual HBCU Technology Conference presented by HP will take place virtually September 10-12, 2024. The event will host tracks for the entire HBCU Campus: CIOs and IT Staff, Faculty & Staff, Executive Leaders, and Students.
This year’s theme is “Explore. Enhance. Empower. Shaping the future of AI at HBCUs.” We will discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education and explore AI topics of importance to HBCUs:
· Policy and governance
· Implementation and security
· Teaching and learning solutions and use cases
· Ethics and bias
· How AI is impacting future of work trends
· And more
Opening the conference will be Sal Khan, Founder and CEO of the nonprofit Khan Academy. You will not want to miss his session: Harnessing AI for Education so All Students Benefit. AI is nascent technology, but we already find ourselves at a crossroads. Will we amplify AI’s benefits equally across society or will we allow an AI gap to form that leaves some students out? Sal Khan, founder and CEO of the nonprofit Khan Academy, talks about the potential for AI to transform education. He will discuss his plan for using AI to help empower all students to reach their full potential to and assist teachers, so they can focus on the very human work of instructing a classroom full of kids. Imagine an entire generation activated, engaged, and exploring new ideas, creating change bigger than any of us can imagine.
You will also hear from HBCU faculty, staff, IT professionals, and leaders, HP, Intel, Microsoft, and others in academia and the tech industry. Visit the conference website to view the full agenda.
The student experience, The Future of Work Academy (FOWA), is a program designed to help students imagine and prepare for their future work through three main activities:
Interactive Symposium. Virtual interactive workshops focused on skills needed for early careers. Each session will provide an opportunity for students to put what they learn to practical use.
Career Accelerator. The HP University Recruitment Team will share tools, strategies, and resources to help students strengthen their interviewing acumen and develop their professional persona. Students will be able to create their career profiles with HP and upload their resumes during registration.
Innovation Incubator. Students participated in a summer learning journey and prepared for a prompt-a-thon competition. Competition finals will take place on the last day of the conference.
Xavier University of Louisiana has officially announced its partnership with the Energy Storage Research Alliance, positioning itself as a critical player in advancing cutting-edge energy storage solutions. This collaboration is a U.S. Department of Energy energy innovation hub. ESRA aims to expedite technology commercialization within the realm of energy innovation.
The alliance unites nearly 50 world-class researchers from three national laboratories and twelve universities, leveraging diverse perspectives to transform the global energy storage landscape.
Dr. Lamartine Meda is the Bellsouth-endowed chemistry and material science professor at Xavier. He will serve as the principal investigator for this collaboration. He emphasized the importance of understanding interfacial reactions in solid-state batteries, which are crucial in enhancing cell performance.
“We have developed a solid-state electrolyte and will take advantage of this electrolyte to understand how different materials interact at their boundaries, which is a key factor in optimizing ion conductivity and overall cell performance. Our primary focus is understanding interfacial reactions using a variety of techniques,” he said.
Focusing on Energy and the Workforce
Over the next five years, the DOE plans to fund ESRA with up to $62.5 million, with Argonne National Laboratory leading the initiative. The goals of this partnership include creating high-energy batteries that are safe, durable, and constructed from inexpensive, abundant materials. Additionally, the effort will focus on training a diverse workforce for future energy storage manufacturing needs.
“Cultivating a diverse workforce dedicated to safeguarding America’s energy resilience is key to ESRA’s mission,” said Wei Wang, ESRA deputy director for crosscuts and director of the Energy Storage Materials Initiative at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. “Through our strategic equity and inclusion initiatives, we plan to create a robust training ground for energy storage science from the undergraduate to postdoctoral levels.”
The collaboration emphasizes innovation in energy technology and aligns with XULA’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency. Initiatives like XULA Green, the university’s Sustainability Office, showcase its dedication to environmental stewardship and advocacy.
“This partnership means a lot for Xavier as our students will have opportunities to perform research at our partner institutions in energy storage and contribute to the goal of net-zero carbon emissions, becoming future leaders of this field,” said Dr. Meda.
The U.S. National Science Foundation awarded Winston-Salem State University a $370,000 grant to advance its efforts in preparing students for careers in STEM. This funding is part of the NSF’s Enabling Partnerships to Increase Innovation Capacity program. EPIIC recently announced an investment totaling nearly $19 million to support 48 institutions nationwide, including historically Black colleges and universities and minority-serving institutions.
Winston-Salem State University, a historically black public university in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Leading the Way
Dr. Fenghai Guo, a chemistry professor and principal investigator of the grant, will spearhead the project at WSSU. The initiative will involve collaboration with North Arkansas College, Middle Georgia State University, and St. Vincent College to enhance innovation capacity at each institution. The focus will be on fostering external and internal partnerships, creating a more inclusive research and innovation ecosystem, and broadening participation among diverse students in the research enterprise.
Dr. Shawn E. Holt, associate provost for Research & Innovation and co-principal investigator on the grant. He emphasized the significance of this opportunity for WSSU. “Through the leadership of Dr. Fenghai Guo in the Department of Chemistry, this is a tremendous opportunity for WSSU to showcase its talented faculty,” he said. “Dr. Guo and his team are leading three other institutions in an effort to grow external, research-related partnerships to increase workforce development in STEM, and support from NSF will jumpstart the process.”
The SUPER (Strategic University Practices to Expand Research) Partnerships Collaborative project will help cohort institutions implement best practices in building partnerships and developing STEM workforce initiatives. Through the EPIIC project, these institutions will engage with industry experts and government agencies to identify the skills and knowledge required for STEM jobs. Then the information will be used to modify and enhance undergraduates’ educational experiences, ensuring alignment with industry needs.
Other co-principal investigators working alongside Dr. Guo include Jafar Gharavi-Naeini, a chemistry professor; Chad Markert, an associate professor of exercise science; and Tangela Towns, an assistant professor of behavioral sciences.
In an initiative to bolster educational opportunities for students from challenging backgrounds, West Virginia State University has partnered with the BHER Foundation to establish the BHER Foundation Healthy Grandfamilies Scholarship. This new scholarship will support students who have participated in the Healthy Grandfamilies program. Health Grandfamilies assists grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.
The BHER Foundation has committed a generous $150,000 to fund the scholarship. WVSU President Ericke Cage expressed gratitude for the foundation’s support. “We are extremely grateful to the BHER Foundation for this generous commitment to provide scholarship support for students who have come through our Healthy Grandfamilies program,” said Cage. “These students and their families have already overcome many of life’s challenges, and this scholarship will be a tremendous aid in helping them continue their education at West Virginia State University.”
The WVSU Extension Service initiated the Healthy Grandfamilies program in 2015 and operates in all 55 counties of West Virginia. It provides vital resources and assistance to grandparents who are stepping up to raise their grandchildren. Often, issues like addiction cause their difficult circumstances.
Alicia Knapp, President and CEO of BHE Renewables, which oversees the BHER Foundation, underscored the program’s significance. “Healthy Grandfamilies helps grandparents navigate the challenges associated with raising their grandchildren, oftentimes after families are impacted by the trauma of addiction, and it’s the type of impactful program that the BHER Foundation is designed to support,” said Knapp. “We are proud to partner with WVSU to support these children with scholarships that will help them reach their full academic potential.”
Helping Students in Need
The scholarship will prioritize WVSU students who have been served by the Healthy Grandfamilies program from Jackson County. Each year, information about the scholarship will be provided to counselors at Ravenswood High School and Ripley High School. The scholarship team will encourage them to recommend eligible students. Should there be remaining funds, the team will also consider other West Virginia students involved in the Healthy Grandfamilies program. Then, students who are the first in their families to attend college will be considered.
The BHER Foundation Healthy Grandfamilies Scholarship will grant its first scholarship this fall. The scholarship marks a hopeful step toward providing essential educational support for students facing unique challenges.
Tennessee State University is mourning the sudden passing of Dr. Curtis Johnson, chief of staff and vice president of administration, who was found unresponsive in his home on Tuesday night. His untimely death has left a profound void in the university community. The loss has prompted an outpouring of faculty, staff, and student tributes.
Remembering Dr. Johnson
Interim President Ronald A. Johnson expressed heartfelt sorrow at the loss of Dr. Johnson. “Dr. Johnson was the embodiment of the spirit that is TSU. His presence beamed with ‘Golden Sunshine’ and an unwavering commitment to our students, as well as an infectious love for inspiring, motivating, and engaging people,” said the president. “I encourage everyone in our TSU community to embrace the essence of the wonderful blessing that Dr. Johnson has been. Let’s support each other as a family and offer our prayers of comfort to Dr. Johnson’s loved ones and close friends.”
TSU Interim President Ronald A. Johnson, left, and Dr. Curtis Johnson, right, at the Fall 2024 One Stop Shop event in Kean Hall.
Dr. Johnson, who joined TSU in 2013, was a beloved figure on campus known for his collaborative spirit and commitment to enhancing the student experience. He was pivotal in leading auxiliary services, overseeing key areas such as dining services and the TSU Bookstore. He also managed emergency procedures.
Student Government Association President Chrishonda O’Quinn spoke of Dr. Johnson’s remarkable impact. “I am deeply heartbroken to hear about the passing of Dr. Curtis Johnson,” O’Quinn expressed. “Dr. Johnson never hesitated to uplift and prioritize the student voice. His presence was remarkable, with an infectious laugh and a smile that could light up any room.”
O’Quinn emphasized that he made everyone he encountered feel valued, leaving an indelible mark on the TSU community. “He loved Tennessee State University with all his heart,” she added.
During his tenure, Dr. Johnson worked closely with former president Dr. Glenda Glover, their professional relationship stemming from their time at Jackson State University. Reflecting on Dr. Johnson’s contributions, the interim president noted, “Dr. Johnson has honored us and is a noble legacy of our beloved TSU. His impact on our community will be felt for years to come.”
Counseling Offerings
In response to the grief, TSU is providing grief counseling services to those affected by Dr. Johnson’s death. The Counseling Center in the Floyd Payne Campus Center will be available for students seeking support. At the same time, the university is offering employees individual and group sessions at the campus and the Avon Williams Educational Center. Additionally, the Employee Assistance Program is accessible 24/7 to help those in need.
To honor Dr. Johnson’s memory, TSU plans to hold a campus-wide gathering, with details forthcoming.
Governor Wes Moore appointed Xiomara V. Medina to the Maryland State Board of Education. Medina is the associate director for clinical training in the Department of Counseling and Psychological Studies at Bowie State University,
The Maryland State Board of Education is responsible for approving regulations and setting educational policies to ensure that every student in Maryland receives a rigorous and world-class academic experience. The board establishes standards for pre-kindergarten through high school education and vocational rehabilitation services. Additionally, it reviews and approves budget allocations for the Maryland State Department of Education, local education aid, and state-supported institutions. Once the board is complete with those budget duties, it sends it to the Maryland General Assembly and Governor Moore.
“Being appointed to the State Board of Education provides me the opportunity to be a voice for the voiceless and champion educational policies for the underrepresented,” said Medina. “Too many times, we see policies being implemented without people knowing what’s going on in the classroom. My goal is to ensure that when policies are discussed, what occurs in the classroom is the focal point.”
Medina’s Experience
Medina, a native of San Francisco, brings extensive education experience to her new role. She has taught at a daycare center and a Montessori School, served as a substitute teacher in Anne Arundel County Schools, and was a school counselor in Howard County Schools. Currently, she guides graduate students at BSU during their internship programs.
“I want everyone to have access to a quality education,” said Medina. “I’m very excited to be able to bring the expertise in education that Bowie State is known for to the board to help advance public education in Maryland.”
Medina is one of three new appointees to the Maryland State Board of Education made by Governor Moore. She earned her master’s degree from BSU and is now pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision there.
The Xavier University of Louisiana community is mourning the passing of Sybil Haydel Morial, a civil rights activist, and dedicated educator who left a memorable mark on her alma mater and the New Orleans community. She was 92 years old and a member of the class of 1952.
Born and raised in segregated New Orleans, Haydel Morial began her undergraduate journey at Xavier before transferring to Boston University, where she shared the campus with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Her experiences being kicked out of Tulane University and her rejection from Loyola University solely because of her race ignited her lifelong commitment to fighting for equality and justice.
Fighting For Equality
Throughout her life, Haydel Morial confronted the harsh realities of racial discrimination in the Deep South with unwavering courage. When disqualified from membership in the League of Women Voters, she and a group of like-minded women took action and formed their own organization, CiCulSo. This racially inclusive group eventually evolved into the Louisiana League of Good Government, advocating tirelessly for voting rights for Black citizens.
As a teacher in New Orleans, she notably filed a lawsuit against the Orleans Parish School Board, challenging laws that prohibited educators from advocating for school integration.
In addition to her activism, Haydel Morial shared her life with her husband and fellow civil rights advocate Ernest “Dutch” Morial. He made history as the first African American to earn a law degree from Louisiana State University and became the first African American mayor of New Orleans.
In 1977, Haydel Morial returned to Xavier University, where she had been an administrator for nearly thirty years. She retired in 2005 as the vice president for external affairs, leaving a legacy of dedication and service.
Haydel Morial was particularly proud of the opportunities Xavier offered, including support for Black singers in opera, serving as a haven for the Freedom Riders, and its ongoing commitment to civic engagement and equity.
Remembering Sybil Haydel Morial
“Our love and prayers go out to the family of Sybil Haydel Morial. We remember her generous life and legacy and the deep, lasting connections that she and her family have maintained with Xavier University of Louisiana over many decades; we are inspired by her activism, leadership, steadfastness, and commitment to serve,” said Dr. Reynold Verret, president of XULA. “She has been neighbor to many, as taught in the parable of the Samaritan. A member of Xavier’s class of 1952 and a long-serving administrator here for 28 years, our university has been greatly blessed by her intellectual and personal gifts that manifest not only on this campus but throughout New Orleans, Louisiana, and worldwide. Her gift to all is enduring, and she will be sorely missed.”
Bluefield State University’s Mining Engineering Technology program has been reinstated after nearly a decade-long hiatus. The program aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals within the mining industry.
The university’s interim president, Dr. Darrin Martin, expressed excitement about the program’s return. “We are thrilled to reintroduce the Mining Engineering Technology program at Bluefield State,” said Dr. Martin. “This program has long been a cornerstone of our engineering offerings, and its revival is a testament to our dedication to fostering economic growth and providing valuable educational opportunities in our region.”
The initiative to revive the program began two years ago, stemming from a conversation between Shannon Remines, a BSU Board of Governors member, and Mike Blackburn of Pocahontas Royalties, LLC. They discussed the pressing need for trained engineers and recognized the high regard for BSU alumni in the industry, which sparked their effort to bring the program back.
Earlier this year, the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission approved the degree program, prompting university officials to visit local high schools and vocational institutions. Supported by scholarships from coal companies, manufacturers, and foundations, the first cohort of aspiring engineers has been assembled.
Keith Olson, vice president of development at Bluefield State, emphasized the timeliness of the program’s launch. “There are 14 accredited mining and mineral engineering degree programs across the country producing approximately 150 graduates, while there is an industry need for over 500 engineers each year. Moreover, The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that 27% of the current geoscience workforce will be retiring by 2029 creating the need for 130,000 fully trained workers to fill that gap,” said Olson.
Preparing the Next Generation of Mining Engineers
In addition to financial backing, industry partners provide invaluable resources, including onsite lab spaces, paid summer internships, and adjunct professors with specialized expertise.
The four-year program leads to a Bachelor of Science degree and covers essential topics such as mine ventilation, planning, safety management, mineral processing, and mine leadership. Students will benefit from hands-on training, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborations with industry leaders.
Dr. Martin highlighted the program’s significance for the local community. “The return of the Mining Engineering Technology program is not only a win for our students but also for the mining industry and the local economy that depends on it. We are committed to producing graduates who are ready to contribute to the success of this important industry,” he added.
Classes for the Mining Engineering Technology program started last week, and enrollment is now open. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early, as interest in the program is expected to be high.
With the start of football season, Clark Atlanta University is proud to announce a special ticket offering to celebrate its new “Red Football Field,” affectionately known as “The Red Carpet of the AUC.”
In honor of its new, all-red football field, the university has introduced the exclusive “Red Carpet Season Pass.” The pass grants fans access to all home games, including the Homecoming match against Miles College on Oct. 19. The premium pass is priced at $130 and promises an unforgettable game-day experience for supporters.
“We are incredibly excited to kick off this football season and to welcome our fans to ‘The Red Carpet of the AUC,’” states Dr. Jerel Drew, Athletic Director at CAU. “The introduction of the Red Carpet Season Pass is our way of honoring this remarkable new field and providing our supporters with an unforgettable game-day experience.”
Clark Atlanta was one of three of this year’s HBCU Invitational Field Refurbished Program grant recipients. The grant, funded by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, aims to enhance field quality, safety, and accessibility for students and local community groups serving youth through football.
Individual Football Ticket Options
In addition to the Red Carpet Season Pass, Clark Atlanta University offers general admission ticket options for its upcoming football games. Matchups include:
September 7: Opening game against Allen University – $25
October 5: Game against Savannah State University – $30
October 19: Homecoming Game & Tailgate
$50 Early Bird Special (available until October 2)
$60 (October 3-19)
November 2: Game against Tuskegee University – $35
Children’s general admission tickets will also be available for $15 and can be purchased on-site on game day.
Homecoming tickets went on sale on Sept. 4, while Homecoming tailgate tents will be available starting Friday, Sept. 13, at noon. CAU encourages fans to secure their tickets early, as it expects limited seats to go fast. All tickets are non-refundable and can be purchased through Ticket Return.
Paul Quinn College hosted a candlelight vigil on Wednesday to honor the life of Dallas Police Officer Darron Burks. The 46-year-old was tragically killed in an ambush attack a week ago. His community remembers him as a dedicated educator, community servant, and loving friend.
Burks was shot while sitting in his patrol car during what authorities described as a premeditated ambush by 30-year-old Corey Cobb-Bey. The attack also injured two other officers before Cobb-Bey was fatally shot by police.
A 2007 Paul Quinn graduate, Burks was a proud alum and a former teacher who had recently completed police training. He was actively involved in his community, served with the Boy Scouts of America, and was a Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated member.
Remembering Officer Burks
At the vigil, which drew hundreds of attendees, Paul Quinn College President Michael Sorrell expressed deep sorrow for the loss felt within the community.
Please join us in honoring our beloved alumnus, Darron Burks. Educator. Officer. Brother. Friend. Quinnite. Candlelight Vigil Wednesday, September 4, 2024 7:04 pm – 8:04 pm Heritage Bell at Paul Quinn College pic.twitter.com/AiNpXN50tt
“This has hit our community exceptionally hard,” Sorrell told those gathered at PQC’s Heritage Bell. “Brother Burks was someone who was the salt of the earth. He never had a bad word to say about anybody. He would give you the shirt off his back. He was a man who understood the essence of service.”
Sorrell emphasized Burks’ commitment to selflessness, both in the classroom and in law enforcement. “He was selfless in the classroom. He was selfless in the community, and then he chose a career where he could give back in a completely different way,” he said in an interview with Fox 4 News. “Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Darron Burks left this place better than he found it.”
Public visitations for Officer Burks are scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 9 a.m. at Watermark Church in Dallas. A celebration of life service will follow on September 7 at the same location.
As the community mourns Burks’s death, his legacy continues to resonate among those he touched throughout his career and life.
Today, HBCU Buzz , BET, Live Nation Urban and When We All Vote, Michelle Obama’s national, nonpartisan voting initiative, announced the Vote Loud: HBCU Voter Registration Challenge, calling on HBCU students and community members to use their voices at the ballot box this November. By registering to vote and making sure their communities do the same, current students, alumni, professors and extended family members can help their school community win special prizes to be announced soon, which may include access to special performances brought to you by Live Nation Urban, HBCU Buzz, BET and When We All Vote.
“With only nine weeks until the 2024 election, the power of young Black voters has never been more clear,” said Beth Lynk, Executive Director of When We All Vote. “The issues that impact our community the most are on the ballot, and it’s time to ensure our communities are ready and empowered for the work ahead. We’re so excited to partner with HBCU Buzz, BET and Live Nation Urban to encourage some healthy competition and make sure that HBCU community members are bringing the energy from this Challenge to the ballot box this year.”
“Voting in the upcoming election is a critical way for HBCU students to make their voices heard and drive the change they want to see,” said Luke Lawal, Jr., Founder and CEO of HBCU Buzz. “Our participation goes beyond casting a ballot; it’s about shaping policies that impact our education, our communities and our future. We are thrilled to be partnering with When We All Vote, BET and Live Nation Urban to challenge the HBCU community to rise up, register and vote loud in the 2024 election.”
The Vote Loud: HBCU Voter Registration Challenge celebrates the power of Black voters, who will determine elections around the country. This year, more than 34 million Black Americans are eligible to vote, representing 14% of all eligible voters in the United States who will decide much more than the presidential election this November. Down-ballot races and ballot initiatives on the issues that matter the most to young Black voters are on the ballot, including the economy and cost of living.
“At BET, we understand that the collective voice of young Black voters is a force for change,” said Kimberly Paige, EVP, Chief Marketing Officer and Co-Lead of Social Impact at BET. “That’s why we’re proud to partner with When We All Vote, HBCU Buzz and Live Nation Urban on the Vote Loud Challenge — a powerful commitment to shaping the future and empowering the next generation of leaders. By voting, we’re actively working to protect our education, our families and our communities, ensuring that our future is decided by us, for us.”
“Live Nation Urban has had a longstanding partnership with When We All Vote, and we are extremely excited to continue that partnership alongside HBCU Buzz and BET for such an important initiative,” said Brandon Pankey, VP, Business Development + Operations at Live Nation Urban.“The company was built upon the notion of giving power and strength to Black voices, and there has never been a greater moment in history for young Black voices to be heard during such an important election season. The Vote Loud: HBCU Voter Registration Challenge not only will help to impact this election, but it has the opportunity to become an initiative that can affect real change for generations to come.”
The Vote Loud: HBCU Voter Registration Challenge will be open from Thursday, September 5, 2024, to Saturday, October 5, 2024. More information on how to enter and share voter registration information with friends, family, neighbors and classmates to win points for your school community can be found HERE.
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ABOUT BET
The BET Media Group, a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARAA; PARA; PARAP), is the world’s largest media company dedicated to entertaining, engaging, and empowering the Black community and championing Black culture. Connecting Black audiences through a portfolio of brands including BET, BET+, BET Gospel, BET HER, BET International, BET Jams, BET Soul, BET Studios, and VH1, the BET Media Group is a thriving media ecosystem of leading interconnected platforms across cable TV, streaming, digital, studios, live events and international.
For more information about BET, visit www.bet.com and follow @BET on social platforms.
ABOUT HBCU BUZZ
HBCU Buzz delivers HBCU news, insights and editorials from the Black College community. Since 2011, HBCU Buzz has been a resource for prospective & current students and alumni. We are on a mission to amplify the Black college experience, articulate stories of HBCU achievement, challenges, opportunities, & developments and advocate for students, alumni and the legacy of these historic institutions.
ABOUT LIVE NATION URBAN
Live Nation Urban (LNU) remains North America’s preeminent producer of concert experiences, festivals, and platforms headlined, curated, and owned by black talent. Operating in partnership with Live Nation Entertainment, the world’s leading live entertainment company, the company sets the tone for culture with over a dozen sought-after festival brands such as Roots Picnic, Broccoli City, Exodus Music & Arts Festival, ONE Musicfest, Strength of a Woman, and more.
Beyond their captivating live events, Live Nation Urban has established themselves as key social architects in black culture with their innovative initiatives that include Juneteenth: A Global Celebration (broadcast on CNN), Kerry Washington’s THICKER THAN WATER book tour, and a special Hip-Hop 50 event at the home of Vice President Kamala Harris in addition to tours by artists such as Ari Lennox, Kirk Franklin, Davido, LL Cool J, Jill Scott, Jodeci, and Raphael Saadiq. The LNU-produced “A Grammy Salute to 50 Years of Hip-Hop” special garnered a nomination at the NAACP Image Awards for “Outstanding Variety Show.” Live Nation Urban continues to grow across hip-hop, R&B, soul, and gospel as the most trusted purveyor of live urban music. For additional information, visit https://livenationurban.com/.
ABOUT WHEN WE ALL VOTE
When We All Vote is a leading national, nonpartisan initiative on a mission to change the culture around voting and to increase participation in each and every election by helping to close the race and age gap. Created by Michelle Obama, When We All Vote brings together individuals, institutions, brands, and organizations to register new voters across the country and advance civic education for the entire family and voters of every age to build an informed and engaged electorate for today and generations to come. We empower our supporters and volunteers to take action through voting, advocating for their rights, and holding their elected officials accountable.
In 2020, When We All Vote ran a robust, multifaceted campaign and reached more than 100 million people to educate them about the voting process and get them registered and ready to vote. The initiative also led in voter education, registration, and volunteer engagement and as a result, 512,000 people started or completed the voter registration process, and nearly 500 media, corporate, and nonprofit partners joined its efforts.
Michelle Obama launched When We All Vote in 2018 and is joined by fellow Co-Chairs Stephen Curry, Becky G, Selena Gomez, Tom Hanks, H.E.R., Liza Koshy, Jennifer Lopez, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Janelle Monae, Chris Paul, Megan Rapinoe, Shonda Rhimes, Bretman Rock, Kerry Washington, and Rita Wilson. When We All Vote is an initiative of Civic Nation, a 501(c)(3) organization, and works with Civic Nation Action, a 501(c)(4). Learn more here.
ABOUT CIVIC NATION
Civic Nation is a nonprofit ecosystem for high-impact organizing and education initiatives working to build a more inclusive and equitable America. Civic Nation shifts culture, systems, and policy by bringing together individuals, grassroots organizers, industry leaders, and influencers to tackle some of our nation’s most pressing social challenges. Civic Nation is home to seven national initiatives and campaigns: ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, Change Collective, It’s On Us, Save On Clean Energy, SAVE On Student Debt, We The Action, and When We All Vote. Learn more here.
Grambling State University is set to make history with its first-ever investiture ceremony honoring Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr. The ceremony will take place on Friday, Sept. 6, at 9:00 a.m. in the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.
Investiture ceremonies date back to the Middle Ages when a new leader was formally vested with the powers of office. This ceremony marks a pivotal step in Dr. Lemelle’s journey, a third-generation alumnus who is dedicated to advancing higher education.
In February, The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors appointed Dr. Lemelle as the university’s 11th president. He brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to educational excellence. He is reportedly the youngest president among the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and is already making waves in his leadership role.
The Lemelle Impact
Before stepping into the presidency, Lemelle served as Grambling’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. He accomplished remarkable strides, including securing the university’s largest corporate gift and boosting its fiscal health score by 200%.
Dr. Lemelle also served as executive vice president and chief financial officer at the Maryland Institute College of Art. During his tenure, he not only enhanced operations at the historic institution but also demonstrated adept financial management.
His extensive background includes managing large-scale budgets. He has collectively overseen approximately $6.5 billion across various prestigious organizations, including PricewaterhouseCoopers, IBM, and General Electric.
Dr. Lemelle holds a B.S. in accounting from Grambling State University, and a M.B.A. from George Washington University. He also earned a doctorate in business administration from SKEMA Business School in Paris, France. He is an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and the United Way of Central Maryland Board of Directors.
The public is invited to attend the investiture ceremony free of charge.
The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is once again shining a spotlight on the vibrant artistic talents of students from Louisiana’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Its HBCU Art Showcase is a collaboration between the Ogden Museum and The New Orleans Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. The 11th installment of the annual tradition highlights artists’ at Dillard University and Xavier University of Louisiana.
Alanni Martin (DU), TATTED Eve, TATTED: Mary, TATTED: Jezebel, 2024, Acrylic and oil on canvas
Since 2013, the exhibit has featured over 125 emerging artists from Louisiana’s five HBCUs. Each year it provides them with a vital platform to share their voices and perspectives. This year’s showcase is hosted in the Museum’s Education Gallery. The designated space honors the teaching of art and the creativity that flourishes in the Southern region of the country.
Painting an Impact
Dillard University graduate Alanni Martin’s art is showcased among the works of 31 other students this year.
“This is the first series I’ve ever painted,” Martin told NOLA.com. “A show like this is so important because, for a lot of us, it’s harder to get this type of opportunity or exposure for our artwork. This show allows people to see the potential of HBCU artists and hopefully be inspired to purchase art from them or look into these universities and their programs.”
The Ogden Museum‘s fundamental mission is to explore the diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and ideas of artists and viewers.
Michelle Pontiff is Ogden’s learning and engagement manager and the education gallery manager. Martin assisted her in selecting the art for the exhibit.
“Our focus is on the Southeastern region, on those living and working in this region and showcasing diverse experiences,” Pontiff said, “especially those that have been traditionally underrepresented. We were excited to build on this relationship with our area HBCUs in 2020, when we launched our HBCU internship program to help students build on their experience throughout their college career.”
The exhibition runs through Sept. 29 and is included in museum admission.
