South Carolina State Alumnus Donates Over 38,000 Bottles of Water to University 

South Carolina State University alumnus Howard T. W. Ragin donated over 38,000 bottles of water to students.

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In a display of community spirit, South Carolina State University alumnus Howard T. W. Ragin made a significant contribution by donating over 38,000 bottles of water on Wednesday. This act underscores Ragin’s deep commitment to his alma mater and the Bulldog community.

Ragin, who has a long history of supporting SC State, emphasized that his water donations stem from a profound love for the university. “This is born out of my love of my university, my alma mater,” Ragin stated.“The first year (that he donated) we had food and fed the freshmen.” He came up with the idea for the water bottle donation but he says the initiative was supported by family, friends, and other alumni.

This donation of water marks the fourth installment of his ongoing support. Earlier this summer, he began contributing to the football team by providing granola snack bars every Monday before practice. He even gifted the Champagne Dancers with travel luggage.

Keeping Bulldogs Hydrated

On Wednesday, Ragin delivered 20 pallets of bottled water, each containing 45 cases and 40 bottles per case. The donated water will be distributed among various student organizations and athletic teams, including:

– Student pantry

– Cheerleaders

– STATE Club

– Softball

– Soccer

– Volleyball

– Tennis (Men’s and Women’s )

– Track & Field (Men’s and Women’s)

– Basketball (Men’s and Women’s)

– Marching 101 Band

– Football

– Student Government Association

Derrick Green, SC State’s Director of Fleet Management, expressed his gratitude for Ragin’s contributions. “I am just elated. It’s always great when we get alumni to step up and fill in places to help us defer cost on the university side,” he said. “It makes a difference in the world. I encourage all alumni to step up and do what they can.”

In addition to the water donation, Ragin plans to provide food for the football team, the Marching 101, and students during the upcoming Homecoming tailgate at Felton Field. He is a member of The STATE Club, the official booster club for SC State athletics.

St. Augustine’s University Students Return After Delay for Storm Repairs

Students at St. Augustine’s University are returning to campus on August 27, following a two-week delay in move-in.

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Students at St. Augustine’s University are returning to campus after a delayed move-in and start to classes.  The two-week delay was a result of ongoing repairs needed due to the damage caused by Tropical Storm Debbie.

During the two-week delay, the administration focused on several key tasks. Those included upgrading maintenance in both residential and educational facilities, restoring power and water to affected buildings, and securing funding to address overdue student refunds and staff salaries.

Message to the Falcon Community

Interim President Burgess expressed his understanding of the frustration the delay may cause, but he emphasized the importance of the improvements being made. “I want you to know that this is a new day,” he stated in a letter to the campus community.

In the letter, Burgess also said that the campus was not the same without students, and he was looking forward to Aug. 27, the new first move-in day. 

“As we work to improve this University, we promise to communicate regularly with you about all updates and improvements across campus. We promise to have more activities and events to keep you engaged on campus. We promise to continue to find ways to help make college more affordable for you. And we promise to continue to staff our campus with kind, caring, and supportive individuals who are here to help you succeed,” Burgess assured. 

The president encouraged students to use the two-week setback wisely. He advised them to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid and register for classes if they have not already done so. Additionally, those planning to live on campus were asked to finalize their housing applications and pay any associated fees. The administration also urged students to prepare for the upcoming transition to Brightspace, the new learning management system.

Classes will begin for all students on Sept. 3. 

Clark Atlanta University Receives $2 Million NSF Grant to Lead HBCU CHIPS Network Initiative

The U.S. National Science Foundation has awarded $2 million grant to Clark Atlanta University to establish the HBCU CHIPS Network.

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The U.S. National Science Foundation has awarded Clark Atlanta University with a $2 million grant for an initiative aimed at strengthening semiconductor research and education across Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As principal investigator and lead institution for this two-year project, CAU will lead the HBCU CHIPS Network. HBCU CHIPS Network is a collaborative partnership that unites HBCUs, government agencies, academia, and industry.

With the funding, CAU will establish the administrative infrastructure and protocols necessary to integrate member institutions into national semiconductor research and workforce development activities. A key component of this initiative will involve the creation of shared facility protocols that leverage the strengths and capabilities of participating universities.

Clark Atlanta University is a private, Methodist, historically black research university in Atlanta, Georgia.

“The HBCU CHIPS Network will allow researchers to advance the microelectronics field by leveraging collective research expertise, facilities, and educational resources at HBCUs,” said Dr. Frances Williams, Vice President for Research and Sponsored Programs at CAU and principal investigator on the project. “The CHIPS Network will support investigators in providing innovative solutions to the design and manufacturing of microchips in collaboration with industry partners.” 

The vision is to foster a dynamic environment for students through meetings and seminars. Another aspect, an electronic database designed to connect them with internship and experiential learning opportunities within the semiconductor field.

The initiative also calls for a multi-institutional research effort dedicated to the design and fabrication of an integrated microelectronic system. This includes addressing challenges related to packaging and reliability.

Power of Partnership

There are six partnering institutions playing a crucial role in this network. Alabama A&M University will focus on developing thermoelectric materials and integrated power/cooling devices. Delaware State University will work on optimizing 2D-3D material integration. Georgia Institute of Technology will focus on improving chip-to-system packaging. Meanwhile, Jackson State University and North Carolina A&T State University will develop 2D semiconductor devices and optoelectronics. Norfolk State University will explore semiconductor packaging using polymer and boron nitride composites. Additionally, North Carolina A&T will also research heterogeneous packaging integration.

Dr. Roger A. Mitchell Jr. Named President of Howard University Hospital

Adventist HealthCare and Howard University announced that Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr. will become the next President of Howard University Hospital.

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Adventist HealthCare and Howard University have announced Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr. as the new President of Howard University Hospital, effective September 13. This appointment follows the decision of current President Anita Jenkins to step down from her role.

Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr.

Dr. Mitchell will assume his new position as part of a Management Service Agreement between Adventist HealthCare and Howard University. He is currently serving as the Chief Medical Officer for the Howard University Faculty Practice Plan. He will take a leave of absence from his professor role at Howard University College of Medicine to focus on his new responsibilities.

A New Leader for Howard University Hospital

In making this announcement, John Sackett, President and CEO of Adventist HealthCare, expressed confidence in Dr. Mitchell’s qualifications and leadership capabilities. “Dr. Mitchell is uniquely qualified to lead Howard University Hospital, bringing decades of strong leadership experience and insight from regional, national, and international healthcare roles,” said Sackett. “Dr. Mitchell will provide the guidance needed to provide high-quality care for the D.C. community, attract the best physicians in the nation to support comprehensive healing, and ensure a superior learning environment for medical students and residents.” 

The change in leadership comes as part of ongoing discussions between Adventist HealthCare and Howard University to establish a long-term partnership to address healthcare challenges in the community. Dr. Mitchell’s background includes a focus on community health initiatives, efforts to reduce gun violence, and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ben Vinson III, President of Howard University, also highlighted Dr. Mitchell’s potential impact on the hospital and the broader community. 

“Dr. Mitchell’s extensive medical and public health experience, as well as his understanding of the needs of the D.C. community, will inform his leadership so that Howard University Hospital continues to advance initiatives to support the best health outcomes,” said Vinson. “His deep connections to Howard University as an alumnus, professor, and executive leader will inform how our students can best participate in ground-breaking clinical and research work with significant influence and impact.”

Morehouse Film Festival to Honor Edwin Moses with Documentary World Premiere

The Sixth Annual Morehouse College Human Rights Film Festival will celebrate Olympic legend Edwin Moses with the world premiere of “MOSES-13 Steps.”

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The Sixth Annual Morehouse College Human Rights Film Festival is set to honor Olympic gold medalist Edwin Moses, a 1978 alumnus. The highlight will be the world premiere of “MOSES-13 Steps”, a documentary that explores the life and legacy of the iconic athlete, whose achievements both on and off the track have inspired and led to significant social and scientific advancements.

Produced by Leopold Hoesch of BROADVIEW Pictures and executive produced by renowned figures Lori McCreary and Morgan Freeman of Revelations Entertainment, the film is supported by Film und Medienstiftung. The documentary will screen at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Morehouse College’s Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel.

Jumping Into The Documentary

“MOSES-13 Steps” features interviews with several prominent figures including Moses himself, Academy Award winners Spike Lee and Samuel L. Jackson, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, museum director Lonnie Bunch, and Olympic legends Tommie Smith and Michael Johnson. The film details how Moses used his knowledge of physics and mathematics to transform the sport of hurdling, mastering the “13 steps” needed to clear hurdles efficiently. It also examines his influence on athlete compensation, equal pay rights, and anti-doping efforts.

“This film delves into the life of the Olympic 400-meter hurdles champion Edwin Moses. On the track, no one could match him for a decade. Off the track, he left an even greater legacy,” says Freeman.

Following its premiere, “MOSES-13 Steps” will receive the inaugural Enlightened Lens – Documentary Feature Award. This award honors films that provide unique insights and highlight the positive dimensions of humanity.

In addition, Moses will be presented with the Dr. Edwin C. Moses Humanitarian Award, recognizing his substantial contributions both in athletics and community advocacy. 

“Edwin has been a wonderful pillar of advocacy for the Morehouse community,” says Kara Walker, the executive director of the Morehouse College Human Rights Film Festival. “His global impact deserves a grand stage, and we are deeply honored that he chose to come back home to our campus and festival for the premiere of his life’s story and work.”

Moses dominated the 400-meter hurdles for a decade, winning 122 consecutive races and two Olympic gold medals medals. Morehouse College’s Edwin C. Moses track is named after Maroon Tiger and Olympic legend.

The festival promises to be a celebration of not only Moses’ athletic prowess but also his enduring impact on society.

NC A&T Professor Appointed to State Board of Certified Public Accountant Examiners

Kecia Williams Smith, an NC A&T graduate and professor, has been appointed to the State Board of Certified Public Accountant Examiners.

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North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has appointed Kecia Williams Smith, a 1995 graduate and current associate professor at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, to the North Carolina State Board of Certified Public Accountant Examiners. This appointment allows Smith to play a vital role in overseeing the practices of licensed certified public accountants and firms within the state.

As a board member, Smith will help ensure adherence to state regulations and guidelines governing the accounting profession. The board is responsible for approving CPA exam applicants and providing essential guidance on examination and licensure processes.

“My purpose in being on the board is to make sure that quality remains job one because when there are quality audits and when CPAs are operating in high quality, that benefits the citizens that we serve,” said Smith. 

Smith’s Research and Contributions

Since joining NC A&T‘s faculty in 2019, Smith has established herself as a knowledgeable educator and researcher in the field of accounting. She serves as a tenured professor in the Department of Accounting and Finance and directs the department’s Master of Accountancy program.

Only 2% of all CPAs nationwide are Black, according to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. This is a concern that Smith actively works to address. As the director of A&T’s Center for Accounting Diversity, she has dedicated much of her work and research to addressing disparities and promoting equity within the field. 

“Coming back to my alma mater and serving at the board level will hopefully get others to be excited about the profession and to see somebody that looks like them,” she said. “I’ve had three careers in the accounting profession. It has served me very well and I just want others to have the same type of opportunity that I’ve had.”  

Smith is the second faculty member from NC A&T to be appointed to a state board by Governor Cooper. Dr. Andrea R. Gentry-Apple is a 2011 alumna and coordinator of the undergraduate Laboratory Animal Science program. She was named to the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board.

Virginia State University Mourns the Loss of Dr. Lucious Edwards Jr.

Dr. Lucious Edwards Jr., a professor and archivist at Virginia State University, passed away over the weekend at the age of 80.

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Virginia State University is mourning the loss of Dr. Lucious Edwards Jr., who passed away over the weekend. Dr. Edwards was a two-time graduate and esteemed professor at VSU. He dedicated nearly half his life to safeguarding and sharing the university’s rich history. His extraordinary contributions as VSU’s Johnson Memorial Library archivist spanned 36 years, from 1977 until his retirement in 2013.

Remembering Dr. Edwards

“Dr. Edwards was a deeply rooted member of the VSU community, even beyond his 36 years of service. Anytime he was on our campus, it was as if a part of VSU history was walking among us. His passion for the University was unmatched, and his commitment to preserving its legacy was truly inspiring,” said VSU Dr. President Makola M Abdullah. “Dr. Edwards didn’t just record our history—he lived it, shared it, and ensured that future generations would understand the profound impact of this great institution. His absence leaves a void, but his influence will remain a guiding force for all of us who strive to carry on his work.”

In addition to his role as an archivist, Dr. Edwards made a lasting impact on the Trojan family as an adjunct faculty member and a leader on various institutional committees. His dedication to education and mentorship enriched countless lives. In recognition of his enduring commitment to the university, the university awarded him an honorary degree during VSU’s spring 2024 commencement ceremony, celebrating his significant contributions to the Trojan family and community. 

“Dr. Edwards will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to VSU and for embodying the spirit of a true Trojan. His passion for our University led him to spend nearly half of his life safeguarding and sharing our story. We owe him a debt of gratitude, as his contributions will continue to be felt for generations,” said Dr. Abdullah.

Dr. Edwards was 80. Funeral arrangements are pending. 

Miles College Unveils New Turf Field Funded by Arthur M. Blank Grant

Miles College has unveiled a new turf practice field for its football team, thanks to a grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.

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Just in time for the Golden Bears football season, Miles College announced its new state-of-the-art practice field is complete. An Arthur M. Blank Foundation grant made the project possible.

The grant was awarded as part of the HBCU Invitational Field Refurbishment Program to improve field quality at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Georgia and Alabama. The initiative, funded by AMBFF and supported by the NFL Foundation, aims to enhance the safety and overall playing conditions for college athletes and youth programs in the community.

Golden Bear Gratitude

“This new field will not only benefit the football program but will also benefit our student intramural athletics and serve as a resource for the broader Miles College community and local youth programs,” says Miles College President Bobbie Knight. “The college remains committed to fostering an environment where students can excel both on and off the field. We offer our thanks to the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.”

Dr. Steven E. Hairston, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Development at Miles College, played a crucial role in securing the grant, working closely with Athletic Director Fred Watson.

“We are appreciative of the Blank Family Foundation and LISC Sports and Recreation for their support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This practice field allows our athletes to have game day scenarios,” says Watson. “Miles College is thankful for the support and looks forward to the collaborations and opportunities.”

Dr. Hairston emphasized the importance of collective effort. “Our goal as an institution is to always provide the best for our students and to support them in every way possible,” says Hairston. “The collaboration between the Miles College Athletic Department and myself and the Office of Institutional Advancement and Development is a testament to the spirit of teamwork that defines Miles College. I look forward to witnessing the team practice under the lights on this remarkable field.” 

REVOLT Debuts “Overtime Hustle” Series, Showcasing the Power of Side Hustles

The wait is over! Dive into the inspiring world of entrepreneurship with the premiere episode of “Overtime Hustle,” hosted by Speedy Morman, now available online. 

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The wait is over! Dive into the inspiring world of entrepreneurship with the premiere episode of “Overtime Hustle,” hosted by Speedy Morman, now available online. 

This series aims to illuminate the often-overlooked narratives of individuals who carve out additional income streams through innovative and surprising side hustles. The debut episode of “Overtime Hustle,” which provides an exclusive look into the life of one trailblazer, was released on Aug. 19 on REVOLT. 

Known for his engaging interviews and dynamic personality, the host opens the show with the following statement: “In the city that never sleeps, hustle culture is everywhere. On every corner, in every park, in every crevice, there’s somebody trying to make their dreams and hustles come true.”

During the 21-minute premiere, he journeys to Brooklyn to meet Yemeni American chef Rahim Mohamed, the culinary genius behind the viral Ocky Way sandwich recipe. As they work behind the scenes at the bustling eatery — cleaning and prepping the space — viewers gain insight into the hard work that fuels the hustle before the grills ever heat up. 

Through conversation, Morman uncovers the story of this once-unknown hustler who transformed his corner store into a must-visit sensation, starting with his move to the United States back in 1999. With millions of followers and subscribers, chef Rahim’s journey – trials and tribulations included – illustrates his dreams coming alive.

“I’m beyond thrilled to be a part of ‘Overtime Hustle,’” said Morman. “This series is all about spotlighting the incredible stories of those pushing boundaries and finding new ways to succeed. It’s going to be an inspiring ride for all who tune in.”

Speedy Morman is no stranger to facilitating impactful conversations, having interviewed icons like former President Barack Obama, Kobe Bryant, and Will Smith. With roots in Queens, New York, the personality brings his unique perspective and tenacity to the series, capturing the essence of entrepreneurship as he showcases the diverse stories of those who dare to break the mold. 

“Overtime Hustle” aims to inspire and empower viewers by sharing the stories of go-getters who successfully turn their passions into profit. The series joins a roster of programs presented by Ally, such as “Assets Over Liabilities” and “Bet on Black,” all designed to educate audiences about financial literacy and the importance of Black excellence in business.

“With ‘Overtime Hustle,’ we’re not just launching a new series; we’re creating a platform for real stories of ambition and creativity,” said REVOLT Chief Brand Officer Deon Graham. “This show embodies REVOLT’s commitment to celebrating the hustle and innovation that drive success. Speedy Morman’s incredible talent and Kaito’s vision bring this project to life, and I couldn’t be more excited for our audience to experience these inspiring journeys.”

The show will air weekly, with new episodes every Monday at 9:30 p.m. EST. Viewers can also catch episodes streaming on REVOLT’s website, YouTube channel, and app each Tuesday to explore more stories of how everyday people harness their creativity and ambition to forge paths to success. 

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Professor Aims to Revolution Aquaculture 

Dr. Rebecca Lochmann at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is leading research aimed at enhancing the sustainability of bass production.

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Dr. Rebecca Lochmann, a University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff aquaculture and fisheries professor, is spearheading innovative research to improve the sustainability of bass production. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture supports this research project through its Agricultural Research Service’s 1890 Research Sabbatical Program. The program promotes collaboration between faculty at 1890 land-grant universities and ARS scientists.

Dr. Lochmann is working closely with Dr. Carl Webster, an ARS fish nutritionist, and co-proposer of the research initiative. The pair are investigating the potential of novel plant and insect feed ingredients to enhance the sustainable production of hybrid striped bass—a popular food fish across the United States. 

Their primary focus is evaluating the growth performance, body composition, gut histology, and gene expression of sunshine bass-fed diets enriched with insect meals and oils. The research at the H.K. Dupree Stuttgart National Aquaculture Research Center involves carefully designed feeding trials that could significantly impact aquaculture practices.

The study formulates six specialized diets, each containing 40% protein and 11% lipid, to assess the efficacy of insect meal as a replacement for traditional fish meal. With over 98% of hybrid striped bass production in mid-Atlantic, southern, and western states, there is a pressing demand for efficient production methods. Notably, the food fish production of hybrid striped bass saw a remarkable increase of 62% from 2013 to 2017, with a further 16% rise in 2018, reaching an estimated market value of $56 million.

Dr. Lochmann emphasized the necessity for advancements in efficiency within the industry to meet the growing demands while addressing environmental concerns. 

“Marine fish meal is the most desired ingredient in aquaculture diets due to its palatability, high protein and amino acid content and quality, and essential fatty acids,” Lochmann said. “However, it is also the most expensive macro-ingredient in an aquaculture diet. Thus, reliance on marine fish meal in diets for fish and crustaceans is problematic since wild marine fish stocks are static – or could decline – due to overfishing, pollution, and climate change. This has forced the search for alternative protein sources.”

Despite the promise of insect meals, their current high market price remains challenging due to limited production scales. Dr. Webster noted that expanding industrial production could reduce costs and ensure consistent quality, paving the way for broader adoption in aquaculture feeds.

Shaw University Gets $450,000 to Investigate Disparities in Smart Technology Privacy Studies

Shaw University has been awarded a $450,000 NSF grant to investigate disparities in smart technology privacy research.

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Shaw University secured a $450,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to support the “Research Initiation Award: Investigating Disparities Among Smart Technology Privacy Studies” project.  

The primary objective of this project is to assess whether specific device types or demographic factors—including race, ethnicity, gender, and age—are underrepresented in existing studies about smart technology privacy. 

The grant is part of the NSF’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities—Undergraduate Program Research Initiation Awards. The program supports STEM faculty at HBCUs by enhancing their research capabilities while improving undergraduate students’ educational experiences.

Dr. Nyteisha Bookert

Dr. Nyteisha Bookert, the assistant professor of computer science and the cyber operations program coordinator at Shaw University, is leading the initiative. “My overall research goal is to investigate the security and privacy of emerging technologies to protect humans,” Dr. Bookert says. “Smart technology is integrated into various aspects of our lives, including homes, schools, and workplaces, enhancing systems such as transportation, healthcare, and manufacturing. However, these technologies also raise significant security and privacy concerns. There is a growing call in the U.S. for a national data protection law in response to these concerns and the increasing number of data breaches.”

Shaw University President Dr. Paulette R. Dillard, Ph.D., expressed her enthusiasm about the grant’s transformative potential.  “Our computer science and cybersecurity students will be empowered to excel in their studies and future careers through this research project,” says Dillard. “We are thrilled about the opportunities this award presents for both our students and faculty, particularly those who are building their research programs.”

Along with aiming to address disparities in smart technology privacy research, the project also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity. It seeks to involve minority and underrepresented undergraduate students in interdisciplinary research initiatives at both local and national levels. The grant will support student research assistants, allow them to present their findings at conferences and symposiums, and boost their technical skills and professional development.

The research’s findings are expected to lead to insights into Americans’ privacy concerns and offer recommendations for creating inclusive policies, laws, and regulations.

SC State University Celebrates Successful First Year of Climate-Smart Partnership with Farmers

South Carolina State University Public Service & Agriculture celebrated the successful first year of its Climate-Smart Grown in SC partnership.

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South Carolina State University Public Service & Agriculture is reflecting on the impact its partnership with Climate-Smart Grown in SC to advance sustainable agriculture in the region has made over the past year.  

In collaboration with Clemson University, the initiative aims to empower farmers by providing technical support and financial incentives for adopting environmentally friendly agricultural practices. 

During the program’s inaugural year, farmers were encouraged to implement conservation practices such as growing cover crops, practicing prescribed grazing, managing nutrients in beef cattle production, and adopting no and reduced-tillage methods. As a result of their participation, farmers received substantial financial incentives based on the commodities they grew and the acres managed using climate-smart practices. SC State PSA has disbursed over $850,000 in payments to participants thus far.

“The climate-smart program gave me a great starting point, being a novice seeking guidance and getting my son established in farming operations and the industry,” said Adrien Priester, a peanut producer from Fairfax, SC. “We came from a 30-year break into the farm service, so we’re restarting to get the next generation on the right path. When the climate-smart program became available, it was the pathway forward to allow us to start the process right and be more efficient as we move forward our farming operations.”

One Year Celebration Event

At an event on July 25th, as part of the first-anniversary celebration, enrolled farmers who embraced climate-smart were recognized practices. 

Over 90 small-scale, under-resourced, and minority farmers across South Carolina gathered to celebrate their successes and learn from one another.

 “Our one-year involvement program was a farmer-centered day, celebrating our farmers’ achievements and resilience while reflecting on the past activities and events that took place during the year-one implementation,” said Dr. Chishimba “Nathan” Mowa, climate-smart commodities project director for SC State PSA. “We look forward to the future success of our program as we enroll more farmers throughout South Carolina for year two.”

The event featured two engaging panel discussions, during which farmers shared their experiences, triumphs, and challenges while implementing the program. These conversations provided insights into how the initiative can be improved in its second year better to serve the needs of South Carolina’s farming community.

In addition to celebrating achievements, the event recognized outstanding farmers for their exceptional contributions. Six farmers received special acknowledgments for their production in categories such as leafy greens, peanuts, and beef cattle. 

The Climate-Smart Grown in SC initiative, backed by a significant $70 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service is the largest public partnership grant in South Carolina.

Livingstone College Receives $8 Million Donation, Totaling $25 Million in Nine Months

The recent $8 million donation to Livingstone College marks a milestone in funding as the college strives to elevate the student experience.

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As students returned to campus, Dr. Anthony Davis, the 13th president of Livingstone College, announced an additional $8 million donation from an anonymous benefactor. 

This brings the total contributions to a remarkable $25 million over the past nine months. That total includes a $10 million donation received last month as well as multiple $1 million donations received throughout the year, including during events like the college’s homecoming and the 145th Founder’s Day program. 

“This is an incredible moment for Livingstone College,” said Dr. Davis about the $10 million donation. “Our anonymous donor has truly believed in our mission and the transformative power of education. 

This funding will further enhance the college’s ambitious capital projects under the initiative titled “Miracle on Monroe Street: Livingstone College Reimagined.” 

The latest gift follows last month’s unprecedented $10 million donation—marking the largest single contribution in the institution’s history. 

As students returned to campus, they were greeted by a newly updated dining facility, which now features enhanced flooring and increased capacity, significantly improving the dining experience for all. 

Other exciting renovations continue throughout the campus, with ongoing work at Tucker and Dancy residence halls projected for completion by fall 2025. In addition, Phase 2 of the dining hall renovations is set to begin in the spring, along with updates planned for Tucker and Babcock Halls.

Dr. Davis emphasized the importance of community support in achieving the college’s goal of becoming the premier private HBCU in North Carolina. He invites the community to attend the Blue Bears’ first home game of the season at Alumni Stadium on Aug. 31  when they will face the University of Charleston.

Livingston encourages those interested in staying informed about the ongoing renovations and future capital investments to follow their official Instagram page or subscribe to their YouTube channel to keep up with updates. 

Grambling State University Unveils First HBCU Digital Library

Grambling State University celebrated the grand opening of its cutting-edge Digital Library and Learning Commons.

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On Thursday morning, Grambling State University marked a historic milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Digital Library and Learning Commons.

The $16.6 million, 50,000-square-foot library is designed to foster connection, creativity, and collaboration among students and faculty alike with its more than 150 computer stations and 17,000 square feet of study space and multipurpose space. 

The grand opening celebrates an architectural achievement and represents a significant shift in educational resources at GSU, which had operated the former A.C. Lewis Memorial Library since 1962. 

The Vision

In 2017, then-President Rick Gallot initiated the digital library project, which garnered support from alumni, faculty, and students. Construction started in 2019, making GSU the first HBCU to build a digital library that has no physical material. 

Gallot, now President and CEO of the University of Louisiana System, attended the opening ceremony and emphasized the importance of the new facility for the university and the wider academic community. 

“The ribbon cutting of the GSU Digital Library and Learning Commons marks a transformational moment for Grambling State University, the University of Louisiana System, and the global landscape of academia,” Gallot said. “This modern marvel provides GSU scholars with a digital learning environment that rivals—and indeed, exceeds—the offerings of many world-renowned and well-resourced institutions.

Current GSU President Dr. Martin Lemelle, Jr., who played a crucial role during the planning stages, described the event as a result of determination and resilience. 

“We’re building a future where every student can excel, Lemelle said. “We are fighting to ensure that Grambling remains a beacon of hope, resilience, and excellence.” 

The facility aims to provide a comprehensive digital repository, allowing students to publish their work across various disciplines, enhancing their research and publication opportunities. 

The grand opening celebration included remarks from various stakeholders, including Student Government Association President Morgan Patton and Louisiana Commissioner of Higher Education Dr. Kim Hunter.

Reflecting on GSU’s legacy, Hunter noted the moment’s importance, stating, “A dream deferred is not a dream denied.”

Plans are to add tools such as laser and etching machines, a Cricut maker, a soldering station, a hot wire cutter, and plastic vending machines to the library.

Elizabeth City State University Sees Enrollment Surge for Fifth Consecutive Year

Elizabeth City State University is celebrating an increase in enrollment numbers and adding to its campus to accommodate the growth.

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Elizabeth City State University is excited to announce a substantial increase in enrollment for the fifth straight year. With classes beginning last week, preliminary numbers indicate that the university is heading for another successful semester, as residence halls are full to 100% capacity. 

“We are thrilled to welcome our students back to campus, where they choose to live, learn and grow,” said Kevin Wade, vice chancellor of Student Affairs and interim vice chancellor of University Advancement. 

Addressing The Growth

This year, the university boasts a record-breaking freshman class and a notable rise in transfer students. To accommodate this continued growth, ECSU has commenced construction of two new campus facilities: a residence hall and a dining hall. Both developments are set to elevate the on-campus experience and are expected to be completed by 2025. 

The new residence hall promises to be a hub of community and engagement. Its open-concept design aims to foster collaboration and camaraderie among residents. Entertainment areas will be featured on each floor alongside common spaces that include a full kitchen, lounge areas, and dedicated study areas for students.

The upcoming dining hall will introduce a fresh culinary experience on campus, replacing the current facility with a state-of-the-art venue. Students can look forward to a “Made-To-Order Station” for hot and cold dishes and a produce station. The dining space will also feature upgraded, open seating arrangements and modern lighting and entertainment systems, making it suitable for live music performances and social events. 

These projects are just two of a broader initiative to enhance the campus environment at ECSU. Last summer, ECSU celebrated the opening of its Unmanned Aircraft Systems Pavilion, the first of its kind in North Carolina. Additionally, student-centered facilities, including a skate park, a regulation-size volleyball court, and a collegiate-size basketball court, were also added to the campus last year. 

North Carolina A&T to Host Environmental Symposium Strengthening Ties with EPA

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University will host an environmental symposium next month to enhance collaboration between the university and the Environmental Protection Agency.

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North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University will host an environmental symposium next month to strengthen collaboration between the university and the Environmental Protection Agency. 

Around 200 students, faculty, and EPA officials from the Research Triangle Park Office of Research and Development are expected to attend the event at NC A&T’s University Farm Pavilion on Monday, Sept. 9.

NC A&T, a public, historically black, land-grant research university in Greensboro, North Carolina.
NC A&T, a public, historically black, land-grant research university in Greensboro, North Carolina.

The symposium was organized under a new Memorandum of Understanding signed in November 2023. This five-year initiative aims to foster cooperation in critical areas of mutual interest, primarily focusing on pressing environmental challenges.

Dr. Godfrey A. Uzochukwu is a senior professor of environmental sciences and chair of the symposium’s organizing committee. He emphasized the importance of research and partnerships in tackling current environmental issues.

“We’re excited to be doing the EPA and N.C. A&T Environmental Symposium,” Uzochukwu said. “It will bring out the best from our students and researchers and the Environmental Protection Agency. We can use that time together to find our way forward for the future.”

The all-day events will kick off with platform presentations featuring remarks from university and EPA officials. A poster session will follow where NC A&T’s undergraduate and graduate students will showcase their research on various topics. Topics will include environmental justice, air quality, water quality, and soil and waste management. This interactive session will provide an opportunity for students and faculty to engage directly with EPA representatives and foster discussions. This could lead to future research collaborations and potential student internships or employment.

Uzochukwu, who also serves as the founding director of NC A&T’s Waste Management Institute, is notably well-connected within the environmental sector. He chairs the EPA’s Clean Air Status and Trends Network review panel and has been actively involved with the agency’s Science Advisory Board since 2021.