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.
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.
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.
Law enforcement students and professionals will gather at Albany State University for the 2024 Criminal Justice Association of Georgia Conference in October.
Albany State University will host the 2024 Criminal Justice Association of Georgia Annual Conference on Oct. 4-5, 2024. The conference aims to foster a collaborative learning and professional development environment for criminal justice students, faculty, and professionals across the state.
This year’s theme, “Redefining Boundaries: The New Era of Criminal Justice Innovation,” promises to explore the latest trends and innovations within the criminal justice field.
ASU Department of Criminal Justice offers a bachelor’s and master’s level academic program. Dr. Jason Armstrong is the CJAG President and Interim Associate Provost & Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at ASU. He expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming conference.
“Albany State University’s dynamic and engaging campus offers an ideal environment for our annual gathering. It embodies the spirit of continuous learning and professional growth that CJAG strives to promote,” says Armstrong.
Participants are encouraged to present their research through formal presentations, showcasing their work to peers and professionals alike. Additionally, attendees can earn Georgia Continuing Legal Education and Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training credits. Researchers wishing to present their work must submit abstracts by the deadline of Friday, September 6, 2024.
On The Agenda
A highlight of the conference will be a keynote address delivered by Chief Michael J. Persley, a respected Law Enforcement Officer for the City of Albany Police Department. With over three decades of experience in law enforcement, Chief Persley has held various key positions, including Gang Unit Commander, East District Police Commander, and Assistant Commander of the Albany-Dougherty Metro SWAT Team. His extensive background will provide insights into contemporary challenges and advancements in criminal justice.
Alongside the keynote speech, Colonel Chris Owens of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office will lead a plenary session titled “Tragedy Averted: Know the Signs.” Colonel Owens’ presentation will focus on identifying warning signs related to potential mass shooters, drawing from his expertise as a certified school safety specialist and manager.
The registration fee is $25 for students and $75 for faculty and professionals. That includes participation in the conference and annual membership dues to CJAG.
Kentucky State University is teaming up with the Kentucky Department for Public Health to improve public health across the commonwealth through collaborative programs.
As part of this ongoing effort, KSU will launch three mobile health units designed to provide essential healthcare services to underserved areas in Eastern Kentucky, West Louisville, and Western Kentucky.
The mobile units will offer screenings, health care, and nutritional education to address chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. These service offerings are based on comprehensive research conducted by KSU to identify the pressing health needs within the Commonwealth.
“I am proud of the work we have already accomplished at KSU to launch this significant partnership,” said Kentucky State University President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo. “We are excited to work together to make positive impacts throughout the Commonwealth.”
Educational Offerings
The initiative includes providing students with hands-on experience through internships with KDPH. Also, KDPH employees will have access to tuition assistance for continuing their education at KSU. They will be able to take up to five courses per academic year free of charge.
The early stages of developing a public health academic program at KSU, which will cover aspects such as government relations and address various public health needs, are also underway is yet another part of the joint effort.
“Public Health supports an easier path to a healthier life for all Kentuckians,” said KDPH Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack. “Those interested in entering the field can choose from a full spectrum of services from newborn screenings and nutrition education to administering vaccines, medication programs and so much more. The professional development opportunities, provided through our programs, will help students find their niche in improving health outcomes for large populations.”
Dr. Akakpo added that the partnership will create new opportunities that will benefit KSU students, the future of the public health workforce, and Kentuckians.
The 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl Watch List has welcomed eleven standout players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
The scouting team began its hunt for the “best of the best” draft prospects among college players last February. Making the list highlights the talent of these athletes and provides an opportunity for them to showcase their skills to NFL coaches and decision-makers at the Reese’s Senior Bowl Game in February.
Among the eleven HBCU players selected, seven defensive and four offensive student-athletes represent a strong showcase from various institutions. The players feature a balanced mix from different conferences, with six hailing from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and five from the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Notably, Florida A&M, Morgan State, South Carolina State, and Howard University each have two representatives making the list.
HBCU Players on the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl Watch List:
Carson Vinson, OL – Alabama A&M
James Burgess, DB – Alabama State
Kendall Bohler, DB – Florida A&M
Jeremiah Pruitte, TE – Florida A&M
Kenny Gallop Jr., DB – Howard University
Jarett Hunter, RB – Howard University
Robert McDaniel, DB – Jackson State
Erick Hunter, LB – Morgan State
Elijah Williams, DL – Morgan State
Aaron Smith, LB – South Carolina State
Nick Taiste, OL – South Carolina State
The game is widely regarded as the preeminent college football all-star game and serves as the first stage in the NFL Draft process. This year, more than 900 NFL personnel and over 1,100 media members from around the country were credentialed to cover the event.
This past April, the game produced a staggering 110 total picks, representing 43 percent of the entire NFL draft—a testament to its significance in shaping the future of professional football.
The Senior Bowl game will be held at the University of South Alabama’s Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama on Feb. 1.
To enhance the innovation landscape within Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Miles College has announced the launch of the 2150 Center for Innovation, Commercialization & Growth. This center aims to empower diverse and underrepresented creators, disruptors, and innovators by providing essential support to help them launch successful businesses and transform existing HBCU research into market-ready products.
The 2150 Centeris partnering with Birmingham-based Harmony Venture Labs to offer entrepreneurs an enriched learning experience. HVL’s proprietary AppThink curriculum, which helps entrepreneurs turn their ideas into reality through proven strategies and expert guidance, will be central to this initiative. HVL focuses on fostering high-growth technology companies that yield positive economic impacts for communities.
“The lessons we gain from the daily startup process are distilled into the content, curricula, and coaching we provide at AppThink. Our zero-to-one startup program delivers exceptional value by offering highly relevant, hard-earned expertise in technology product development and company building,” says HVL CEO and mentor Shegun Otulana. “Additionally, our students gain access to a community of successful entrepreneurs through our Let’s Build Slack community.”
Erskine “Chuck” Faush serves as both the chief innovation and growth officer and the center’s founder in residence at the 2150 Center. Faush emphasizes that the center will build on existing Centers of Excellence to attract entrepreneurial talent and venture investment and strengthen Alabama’s HBCU ecosystem.
“We are positioning to drive innovation and commercialization. This collaboration will educate and train students to be founders of successful companies and professors to be drivers of commercialized research. Ultimately, both paths will produce campus and community economic impact,” says Faush. “The 2150 Center will operate at the intersection of purpose and prosperity, changing the narrative for HBCU innovation from being left behind to pushing forward. The opportunity to join the amazing team at HVL will align curriculum and mentorship, matching ideas with investment.”
Miles College President Bobbie Knight reiterated the initiative’s importance, especially in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. “We must educate ourselves and others rather than retreat in fear,” she said. “This partnership reflects our commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth, not just for our students but for the entire region.”
The 2150 Center plans to collaborate with various public, private, and educational stakeholders to address challenges and align talent with market demand. By assessing and validating high-potential ideas, the center aims to create value for companies while generating additional revenue for Miles College.
Lincoln University is shining bright in collegiate athletics, with head softball coach Jason Ollison and head women’s soccer coach Leah Stringer both honored as “Missouri’s Best” in their respective positions by Missouri’s Best for the 2024-25 edition.
Coach Jason Ollison
This award marks the third consecutive year Coach Ollison received the title of “Missouri’s Best” college softball coach. Now, in his third season with the Blue Tiger softball program, Ollison led the team to its most successful season in a decade last spring. A standout moment included a commanding 11-1 victory over Newman, the team’s largest margin of victory against a conference opponent in eight years. Off the field, Ollison’s commitment to academic excellence is evident, with 24 of his student-athletes earning a spot on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll.
Ollison graduated from Lincoln University and earned All-MIAA honors while playing for the Blue Tigers. Before leading the team as head softball coach in 2022, he worked as a high school softball and baseball coach.
Coach Leah Stringer
Meanwhile, Coach Leah Stringer is making her mark as Lincoln’s first-ever women’s soccer coach. Over the past school year, Stringer focused on building the women’s soccer program and carefully assembling a competitive roster in preparation for LU’s inaugural season. This historic season will kick off when the Blue Tigers take the field for the first time on September 6, facing off against Minnesota Crookston in South Dakota.
In the past, Stringer coached softball at Missouri Western State University and was an assistant coach for the men’s and women’s soccer teams at Northeast Texas Community College. She also served as the goalkeeper coach for the Manchester Soccer Club United ’96 Boys team in the past.
Missouri Magazine’s Missouri’s Best Content started in 2017. Along with bragging rights for the entire year, winners are invited to a private red carpet-event and listed on their website and in a special edition of the magazine.
Lincoln University is celebrating a significant achievement: Director of Golf Kortland Ware has been named the 2024 Non-Division I HBCU Coach of the Year by the Black College Golf Coaches Association and the Golf Coaches Association of America. This recognition highlights Ware’s contributions to collegiate golf as head coach of the Blue Tigers women’s and men’s programs.
— Lincoln University (Missouri) Athletics (@GoBlueTigers) August 21, 2024
In the 2023-2024 season, Ware led the women’s golf team to two notable successes, including securing first place at the National Women’s Collegiate Championship. Also under his guidance, standout player Kaathi Gunasegar earned the individual medalist award and earned the opportunity to compete in the LPGA Pro-Am, where she was paired with top-ranked golfer Nelly Korda. The women’s team also achieved two runner-up finishes and recorded nine top-ten results throughout the season.
Similarly, the men’s program thrived under Ware’s leadership, achieving two second-place finishes, notably at The PGA WORKS Championship held at the renowned PGA Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida in May. The Blue Tiger men’s team showcased their talent with four top-five placements and a total of seven top-ten finishes during the year.
Ware’s historic recognition marks him as the first golf coach in Lincoln University‘s history to receive the HBCU Coach of the Year award. The BCGCA awards celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of Black college golfers and coaches across all divisions, emphasizing the impact of leadership and mentorship in the sport.
Lincoln University in Jefferson City, MO.
Ware is a graduate of Lincoln University and returned to his alma mater in 2022 after a career playing golf professionally that began after his graduation in 2010. He also attended Jackson State University before transferring to Lincoln.
On Wednesday, the Benedict College Board of Trustees announced the contract extension of Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, the college’s 14th and first female President and CEO, for an additional seven years through June 2031. This decision underscores the board’s confidence in her leadership and vision for the institution’s future.
Since Dr. Artis joined Benedict College in 2017, she has been credited with driving the college toward unprecedented growth and long-term success. Under her guidance, Benedict College completed its ambitious B.E.S.T. (Building Exceptional Scholars Together) five-year strategic plan in just three years. The college is now making substantial strides towards achieving the goals of its current strategic plan, B2 Focus on the Future 2023-2028, which prioritizes student success.
Charlie W. Johnson, Chairman of the Benedict College Board of Trustees, expressed his enthusiasm for Dr. Artis’s leadership. He stated, “We are exceptionally proud and fortunate to have such a strong leader guiding the College to higher heights and through the numerous challenges facing higher education institutions today. President Artis is keenly aware of the current issues students face, and she has demonstrated a deep commitment to providing students with formative learning experiences that prepare them to lead and succeed professionally and personally.”
Dr. Artis’s tenure has been marked by remarkable achievements and transformations at Benedict College. In July 2024, the college received the prestigious Institutional Excellence Award from the United Negro College Fund recognizing its exceptional performance and commitment to excellence. The college also secured a 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS-COC) with no recommendations, a milestone that had not been achieved in over a generation.
Benedict College has stabilized and improved financially, reducing its debt by nearly $56 million during Artis’s tenure. More than $25 million has been invested in upgrading campus facilities, and nearly $15 million has been allocated for enhancing technology infrastructure and computer labs.
The college’s graduation rate has soared by 233% since 2018, and the 4-year graduation rate has also increased. Dr. Artis’s initiatives have also led to the ABET accreditation of Benedict’s Environmental Engineering Program. Academic programs have been realigned to meet the demands of high-growth fields, including Cybersecurity, Computer Science, E-sports, and Entrepreneurship.
“The Board continues to applaud and unequivocally support the leadership of President Artis and her extraordinary team, added Chairman Johnson.” We are committed and excited to partner with her as she leads Benedict College into its next era of excellence.”
Saint Augustine’s University has secured a significant financial partnership with Gothic Ventures, designed to propel the institution into a new chapter of growth and stability.
This strategic funding comes at a pivotal time for the university, which is facing various financial hurdles while preparing for the upcoming academic year.
Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina.
These include completing an external audit, settling employee salaries, refunding student credit balances, and covering essential daily operational expenses. This funding ensures the university can effectively manage its operations just in time for the fall semester.
From the University
“This loan represents a significant affirmation of our commitment to our students and staff,” added SAU Interim President Marcus H. Burgess. “We are grateful for the belief that Gothic Ventures has placed in our vision, allowing us to focus on enhancing the academic experience while showcasing our resilience in the face of adversity.”
Kip Johnson, the founder and managing general partner of Gothic Ventures, stated that the collaboration signifies a shared vision for a brighter future.
“We are excited to partner with Saint Augustine’s University during this pivotal time,” said Johnson. “Our belief in the transformative power of education aligns with the University’s historic mission, and we are confident that this collaboration will lead to future successes for the institution and its community.”
The partnership aims to ensure the university can navigate current difficulties and thrive in the future.
“The partnership with Gothic Ventures marks a pivotal moment for SAU as it embarks on a multi-year strategic plan to stabilize and grow the University,” said SAU Board of Trustees Chairman Brian Boulware. “This funding secures our immediate needs while allowing us to implement our long-term vision. We believe our partnership with Gothic Ventures will be crucial to our journey toward excellence.”
Johnson C. Smith University has kicked off a vital 10-day emergency aid campaign to financially clear at least 300 students before the critical deadline of Friday, August 30, 2024.
The campaign comes as JCSU welcomed 1,378 enrolled students this fall, but many face challenges in covering the total cost of their education.
In light of the increasing financial needs, the university is rallying community support to ensure every student remains enrolled.
JCSU has established the Return to Beatties Ford Road Emergency Aid Fund, aiming to raise $250,000 to provide essential financial relief for incoming students who must settle outstanding balances before registering for classes.
“When we talk about an average gap for students, you’re looking at anywhere between $6,000 to $10,000,” said Davida Haywood, JCSU vice president of student affairs and enrollment management. “After whatever federal financial aid they receive or merit-based scholarships they may receive, what’s left is the responsibility of students and their families. We’re trying to help our students with that gap.”
Contributions can be directed to the JCSU General Scholarship, which offers emergency aid for tuition, housing, books, and other expenses.
Classes started on August 21, and the final day to assist students short on funding is August 30.
JCSU President Valerie Kinloch will hold a special Zoom call with students, the facility, and potential donors on Monday, Aug. 26, at 6 p.m. to discuss the urgent needs of students.
For more information on how you can contribute, text HELPTHEBULLS to 704-452-4107.
Fans of four historically black colleges and universities will cheer from the sides of freshly refurbished fields this fall thanks to $6.5 million in grants from Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank.
In a game-changing move for HBCU athletics, Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank is stepping up to the field with a $6.5 million investment to revitalize student-athletes’ football experiences.
Albany State University, Clark Atlanta University, Miles College, and Savannah State University are the recipients of the HBCU Invitational Field Refurbished Program grant, which the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation funded. The grant was open to select HBCUs in Georgia and Alabama.
According to a joint statement by the AMBFF, the NFL Foundation, and the Local Initiative Support Corporation, the invitational grant program is “designed to improve field quality, safety, and accessibility for students and local community groups serving youth through football.”
“The HBCU Invitational Field Refurbishment Program is one of many ways the NFL is deepening its commitment to HBCUs,” said Alexia Gallagher, NFL VP of Philanthropy and Executive Director of the NFL Foundation. “We are excited to provide resources for student athletes at the selected institutions to play the game of football to the best of their ability while creating equal opportunities for all.”
The Vision
Miles College is using its share of the donation to convert its natural grass practice facility to turf; Albany State University will do the same with its grass football and soccer field, while Clark Atlanta and Savannah State will replace their current turk fields.
Clark Atlanta Unveils Newly Designed Red Turf Field installed by the Arthur Blank Foundation
“The positive impact of athletics is a driving force throughout our portfolio of businesses,” said AMB Sports and Entertainment CEO Rich McKay. “Arthur Blank and his Family Foundation recognize and prioritize community impact through sport, and supporting these historical institutions is a natural extension of our values. We are honored to partner with LISC, the NFL Foundation, and these universities to enhance the playing surfaces, with the shared goal of creating more opportunities for the students and surrounding communities alike.”
LISC manages the grant program and has refurbished hundreds of community football fields over the last 25 years.
“Thanks to the Arthur M. Blank Foundation and the NFL Foundation, we are able to deliver capital and technical expertise to institutions that offer tremendous value to students but that may not have the types of endowments that larger universities have,” said Michael T. Pugh, LISC president and CEO. “With access to flexible resources, the schools are able to make updates and upgrades that might not otherwise be possible—creating opportunities that benefit not just the institutions themselves, but improve the health and well-being of students and community members as well.”
Clark Atlanta and Albany State will showcase their new fields for home games on Saturday, September 7, while Savannah State’s new turf will debut on Saturday, September 14.
North Carolina A&T State University and Golden State Warriors legend Alvin Attles has passed at the age of 87. The Golden State Warriors confirmed his death on Wednesday, stating he was surrounded by family at his home in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Attles, a standout athlete at North Carolina A&T from 1956 to 1960, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in physical education and history. He led the Aggies to consecutive Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association titles in 1958 and 1959, marking the beginning of a remarkable career in basketball. In a testament to his impact, Attles’ number 22 was the first jersey retired by North Carolina A&T.
In 1960, Attles was selected as the Philadelphia Warriors’ fifth-round draft choice. Over the course of his 11 seasons with the team—first in Philadelphia and later in San Francisco—he established himself as a formidable player. His tenure with the franchise has extended beyond his playing days; after retiring as a player in 1983, he continued to serve the Warriors as a coach, general manager, and team ambassador. His more than six-decade association with what is now known as the Golden State Warriors is the longest single-franchise affiliation in NBA history.
The NBA family mourns the passing of Golden State Warriors legend and Basketball Hall of Famer Alvin Attles. As a player, coach, executive and team ambassador, Alvin made a lasting impact on the Warriors and the league during his more than 60-year career. Alvin was admired… pic.twitter.com/83GESIguEK
Nicknamed “The Destroyer”, Attles ranks among the franchise’s all-time greats. As one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, he guided the Warriors to their first championship during the 1975 NBA Finals. His numerous honors include being the franchise’s all-time leader in coaching wins and earning a place among the top eight in number of games played.
“Alvin Attles did not just epitomize what it meant to be a Warrior—he was Mr. Warrior. His tenacious playing style earned him the affectionate nickname of “The Destroyer” on the court, but it was his gentle soul, grace, and humility off the court that served as a guiding light for the organization for more than six decades,” the Warriors said in a statement honoring Attles. “As a player, coach, general manager, ambassador, and most of all, as a person, Alvin set the standards of professionalism and class by which we all strive to achieve. He leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community, but especially as a family man and humanitarian. We mourn his loss alongside his wife, Wilhelmina, son Alvin, and all who knew and loved him.”
Alvin Attles did not just epitomize what it meant to be a Warrior—he was Mr. Warrior 💛 pic.twitter.com/BtCDqcorsD
Attles’ endless contributions to the franchise led to achievements, including being named a co-recipient of the 2017 National Basketball Coaches Association’s Chuck Daily Lifetime Achievement Award, being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame, and being honored with the John W. Burn Lifetime Achievement Award.
Attles’ extensive contributions to the franchise have been recognized with numerous accolades, including co-recipient of the 2017 National Basketball Coaches Association’s Chuck Daily Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame. He was also honored with the John W. Burn Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting his lasting impact on basketball and the community.
The University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law has achieved a remarkable distinction as the top law school for minority students, underscoring its unwavering commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for individuals from historically underrepresented groups in the legal profession.
The school has been ranked the No. 1 law school for Greatest Resources for Minority Students and the No. 1 Most Chosen by Older Students by the Princeton Review. With a student body comprising 50% minority students and 60% women, UDC Law actively promotes an inclusive environment that welcomes international learners.
“Being ranked the No. 1 law school for minority and nontraditional students by The Princeton Review is an incredible achievement that truly embodies the heart of our mission at UDC Law,” said UDC Law Interim Dean Angela Gilmore. “This ranking affirms our longstanding dedication to expanding access to legal education to those who have often not been given those opportunities and providing legal representation for those who have historically lacked access to the legal system. At UDC Law, we are committed to practicing law, promoting justice and changing lives through educating and empowering a diverse and inclusive student body who see public service as a founding pillar of their legal education. And this ranking is a testament to our collective efforts and success in advancing these core values.”
The Princeton Review’s Best Law Schools for 2024 rankings evaluated law schools across the nation in 14 categories, resulting in top-10 lists. Rankings were determined by current student demographics, surveys from school administrators at 168 law schools, and feedback from 18,400 enrolled law students who rated their experiences.
“Every school that made our Best Law Schools for 2024 lists offers outstanding academics,” said Rob Franek, The Princeton Review’s editor-in-chief. “We report our rankings in multiple categories—in lieu of one mega-list solely based on academics—to help applicants choose the law school best for them. Our 14 categories identify law schools we have found to be exceptional for factors that go beyond academics—from career services and placement records to aspects of their campus culture and faculty representation—all of which law school applicants have told us matter in their consideration of schools.”
In addition to these recent accolades, UDC Law was recognized earlier this year by Reuters as the No. 2 school for placing graduates in government and public-interest jobs. U.S. News and World Report also ranked the institution No. 13 nationwide for its outstanding clinical training program.
Since its inception, UDC Law has made public service a top priority, consistently demonstrating this commitment by providing over 100,000 hours of essential legal services to D.C. residents each year through its clinical program. UDC Law students engage with federal agencies, nonprofits, the judicial system, and both national and international governments, further exemplifying their dedication to serving the community.
Winston-Salem State University junior Maliyah Winters is already a history maker. The Raleigh native is the first historically Black college student to intern at the NC Real Estate Commission in the 2024 Summer Education and Licensing Department.
Winters, who aspires to become a real estate agent, learned of this opportunity when the NC Real Estate Commission held its first-ever lunch and learn event on the campus of WSSU, said William Gibson, coordinator of employer relations for WSSU’s Career Development Services.
The lunch and learn was a collaborative effort between Career Development Services and Minerva Mims, a WSSU alumna who serves as the state Real Estate Commission’s diversity, equity and inclusion officer.
“Being the first HBCU student to ever receive this internship in the Education & Licensing Department is an unexplainable achievement,” Winters said. “It is opening doors for those that look like me that thought it wasn’t possible. Just to know that I am making history – not only for myself but for other HBCU students like me who want to pursue a career like this one – is a blessing.”
Winters said her primary responsibility during the internship is creating unique social media marketing campaigns for brokers and consumers using her graphic design and video productions skillset. Even more beneficial, though, is the exposure and connections to realtors from across the state and getting to experience what they encounter on a daily basis, she said.
A business administration major with a concentration in marketing, Winters is the 2024-2025 WSSU Campus Activities Board president and a Home Depot Retool Your School ambassador. She hopes to one day operate her own brokerage firm and said this internship is a stepping stone in reaching her goals.
“When I first stepped foot on campus here at WSSU, I felt at home and a sense of comfort. Staff and students did a great job at making me feel welcomed,” Winters said. “The phrase ‘Ramily’ is a great representation of the environment on this campus. Had it not been for WSSU, I wouldn’t have the connections and experiences needed to further my career.”
“This internship is an amazing opportunity for Maliyah to gain invaluable real-world experience and to pave the way for future HBCU students,” Wilson said. “Her journey is a shining example of what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity. As a former WSSU student, I have seen firsthand how crucial these connections and resources are in shaping our futures, and Maliyah’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact we can all make.”
Career Development Services is committed to its strategic plan, specifically in fostering student success, Wilson said. “We are deeply focused on connecting students to experiential learning opportunities that enhance their academic and professional journeys. I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Minerva Mims for making the opportunity possible.”
Bloomberg Philanthropies announced a $600 million gift to four historically Black medical schools Tuesday, a landmark gift that will more than double three of the four schools’ endowments in a strong endorsement of their mission. The four medical schools are Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science, Howard University College of Medicine, Meharry Medical College and Morehouse School of Medicine.
The company will also provide seed funding to support the creation of Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, a new medical school in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Howard University President Ben Vinson III said in the press release that the transformative gift will cultivate the next generation of health professionals and invest in the intergenerational wealth and health of medical students and the communities they serve.
“Endowment support has traditionally been an area of underinvestment for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, but today’s gift is an extraordinary vote of confidence in the lasting benefits of such support,” Vinson III said.
The donation is part of its Greenwood Initiative where its mission is to “advance racial wealth equity including addressing systemic underinvestment in Black institutions and communities,” according to the press release.
In 2020, Bloomberg Philanthropies gave $100 million to the four historically Black medical schools, which at the time was the largest philanthropic gift from a single donor to these institutions. Since then, the institutions have been able to put a spotlight on how critical they are to advancing health equity and have catalyzed support from new funders and broken annual fundraising goals.
“We have much more to do to build a country where every person, regardless of race, has equal access to quality health care – and where students from all backgrounds can pursue their dreams,” said Michael R. Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies and Bloomberg L.P. said in a press release.
In the dynamic landscape of American politics and education, Kamau Marshall stands as a seasoned strategist and influential voice. From his pivotal role as a senior advisor at the U.S. Department of Education to his strategic contributions within the Biden-Harris campaign, Marshall’s journey is marked by a dedication to public service and a commitment to advancing educational opportunities, particularly within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Now, Kamau Marshall has been selected as Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign senior adviser. Stepping into the campaign’s senior adviser position, Marshall shared,
“I am incredibly excited and immensely enthusiastic to join the Harris for President. Vice President Harris has served as a crucial governing partner to the most experienced president in American history.”
A Diverse Career Path
Marshall’s career trajectory reflects a deep-rooted commitment to public engagement and strategic communications. He began his journey in grassroots politics, serving as an elected student leader at Texas Southern University, one of the nation’s foremost HBCUs. This early experience laid the groundwork for his subsequent roles on Capitol Hill and within various administrations. Before joining the Biden-Harris administration, Marshall played a pivotal role as the director of strategic communications for Joe Biden’s successful 2020 presidential campaign. His strategic insights and communication prowess were instrumental in navigating one of the most challenging electoral landscapes in recent history.
Bridging Politics and Education
At the U.S. Department of Education, Marshall’s influence was felt across strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and outreach efforts. His tenure underlined a steadfast commitment to improving educational outcomes and supporting HBCUs, reflecting his personal and professional dedication to equity and inclusion in education.
Marshall’s work extended beyond federal agencies; he has a rich history of collaboration with influential leaders and organizations, including his impactful engagements with the late Congressman John Lewis and other prominent figures in American politics.
Advocacy and Outreach
Marshall’s advocacy for education reform and HBCU empowerment has been a cornerstone of his career. His efforts have focused on addressing critical issues such as college affordability, student debt relief, and enhancing educational opportunities for underserved communities.
His deep understanding of the intersection between education policy and public engagement has been instrumental in shaping initiatives that resonate with diverse communities across the United States. Marshall’s approach emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility in education, ensuring that all voices are heard and represented.
Looking Ahead
As Marshall continues to make significant strides in his career, his impact on education and public policy remains profound. His journey—from grassroots activism to influential roles within presidential campaigns and federal agencies—serves as a testament to the power of dedication, strategic thinking, and a steadfast commitment to public service.
In an era marked by evolving challenges and opportunities in education, Kamau Marshall emerges as a pivotal figure, championing equity, access, and excellence in learning. His journey exemplifies the transformative potential of individuals dedicated to shaping a brighter future for generations to come. As he plays a pivotal role in Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign, Marshall says, “The upcoming election is of utmost importance, and the progress made by the Biden-Harris administration must be protected. I am proud to be part of this team, fighting for a better tomorrow.”
For more updates on Kamau Marshall’s initiatives and advocacy efforts, stay tuned to HBCUBuzz.com as we continue to follow his journey and impact on education and beyond. HBCUBuzz encourages you to register to vote and show up in November. As Kamau Marshall said, “Vice President Harris played a vital role in the historic victory over Trump, securing 81 million votes in 2020 as Joe Biden’s running mate. Now, more than ever, we must prioritize unity. While it is often said that each election is crucial, the upcoming one holds paramount significance.”
