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.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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. 

Albany State University to Host Annual State Criminal Justice Conference

Law enforcement students and professionals will gather at Albany State University for the 2024 Criminal Justice Association of Georgia Conference in October.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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 Partners with State to Enhance Community Health

Kentucky State University has partnered with the Kentucky Department for Public to enhance community health initiatives Commonwealth.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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. 

HBCU Football Stars Shine on Reese’s Senior Watch List

The 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl Watch List has featured eleven exceptional athletes from Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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. 

Miles College Launches Innovation Center to Strengthen HBCU Ecosystem

The 2150 Center for Innovation, Commercialization & Growth is a transformative beacon for diverse and underrepresented innovators.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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 Center is 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 Coaches Named “Missouri’s Best”

Lincoln University is celebrating head softball coach Jason Ollison and head women’s soccer coach Leah Stringer, both honored as “Missouri’s Best”.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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’s Kortland Ware Named HBCU Coach of the Year

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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.

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 x Jefferson City, MO
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.

Benedict College Extends President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis’s Contract

The Benedict College Board of Trustees extended the college’s 14th and President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis’s contract through 2031.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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.

Entrance-Benedict-550x379-1

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 Makes Financial Comeback with $30 Million Partnership 

Saint Augustine has secured a significant financial partnership with Gothic Ventures $30 million, starting with a $7 million term loan.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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. 

Under this new agreement, SAU will gain access to up to $30 million, starting with an immediate $7 million term loan.

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.”

Record Enrollment Sparks Emergency Aid Campaign at Johnson C. Smith University

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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.

Atlanta Falcons Owner Gifts Millions to Revamp HBCU Sports Fields 

Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank has pledged $6.5 million to revitalize athletic fields at four historically black colleges and universities.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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. 

“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. 

HBCU and NBA Legend Alvin Attles Passes Away at 87 

Known as “The Destroyer,” Alvin Attles was one of the franchise’s all-time greats with over six decades of affiliation.

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

North Carolina A&T State University and Golden State Warriors legend Alvin Attles died at 87.

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.

Alvin Attles’ Accomplishments

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.” 

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. 

University of the District of Columbia Named #1 Law School for Minority Students

Posted by Ashley Brown
Posted on

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.