Albany State University Boosts Local Economy with $266 Million Contribution in 2023

Albany State University has positively impacted southwest Georgia’s economy by contributing $266 million in 2023.

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Albany State University has made a significant economic impact in southwest Georgia, contributing $266 million to the region’s economy for the Fiscal Year 2023, according to the University System of Georgia’s annual Economic Impact Study. This marks a 2.5% increase from the previous year, highlighting the university’s growing role in fostering local economic development.

Employing Southwest Georgia

The Economic Impact Study indicates that ASU‘s contributions are not just financial; they also extend to employment opportunities. The number of jobs associated with the university, including both on-campus and off-campus roles, rose to 2,517 from 2,278 positions.

Dr. Lawrence Drake, President of ASU, expressed pride in the institution’s role as an economic partner in the region. “We are proud of the role that Albany State University has as a partner in the economy of the Southwest Georgia region,” he stated. “It is vitally important to the community that we serve, that we educate students and provide enriching services, all of which provide for a stronger economy, which is good for commerce throughout this region and the state of Georgia as a whole. We look forward to continuing this positive trend and to having an even better 2024.”

Fueling Georgia’s Economy

The University System of Georgia and the Board of Regents commission the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business annually to perform the economic impact assessment. The latest report reveals that the entire University System contributed a remarkable $21.9 billion to Georgia’s economy, supporting 163,332 jobs—approximately 3.2% of all non-farm jobs in the state.

In addition to its direct economic contributions, ASU plays a pivotal role in enhancing the financial prospects of its graduates. The recent USG Lifetime Earnings Report projects that 2023 ASU graduates who choose to remain in Georgia will generate $3.8 billion in lifetime earnings. Of this amount, $1.1 billion can be directly linked to the degrees earned at ASU. 

The report highlights the substantial long-term financial benefits associated with higher education. A USG student obtaining a bachelor’s degree is expected to earn an additional $1.3 million throughout their career. Moreover, those with advanced degrees can anticipate even greater financial gains. Master’s degree holders earn $294,384 more than their bachelor’s counterparts. Professional degree holders reap an impressive $1.2 million bonus over a lifetime.

Alabama State University Graduate Student Receives $75,000 Fellowship to Combat Coronavirus 

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The National Science Foundation awarded Sandani Wijerathne, a fourth-year microbiology Ph.D. student at Alabama State University a prestigious $75,000 fellowship from the National Science Foundation. The funding will support her efforts to eradicate the coronavirus. 

Photo in Dr. Qiana L. Matthews lab with Microbiology Phd student Sandani Wijerathne, Monday, July 29, 2024. Wijerathne was recently awarded a $75,000 grant for her research projects. Photo by David Campbell/Alabama State University

The “Alabama Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, Graduate Research Scholars Program” will support Wijerathne’s investigation into the Feline Coronavirus, which significantly contributes to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“I am very grateful for the EPSCoR grant, which will greatly assist me in obtaining my Ph.D. in microbiology from Alabama State University,” Wijerathne said. “My research in this area has as its ultimate goal the prevention or the lessening of the effects of future outbreaks of the Coronavirus, which recently had such a negative impact worldwide.”

The COVID-19 crisis influenced Wijerathne’s educational journey, driving her commitment to apply her knowledge to solve critical health challenges.

“As a student of microbiology, I thought of no better use of my research capabilities than to work for a cure for one of the most dangerous diseases that threatens the global population, and ASU’s microbiology program and the grant that I have received, are both making my work possible,” stated Wijerathne.

Making Alabama State University Proud

Dr. Qiana Matthews, the faculty advisor for graduate students in the microbiology department, expressed her pride in Wijerathne’s accomplishments.

“I am very excited that such a hard worker and gifted student as Ms. Wijerathne was awarded this important fellowship,” Matthews said. “She is among our brightest and kindest students, and she has a real desire to make a positive impact in the field of science. She has discussed with me the possibility of her one day starting a non-profit so she will be able to help individuals in a manner that makes medical care more affordable to them and enhances their overall health.”

Matthews believes that the NSF’s EPSCoR award highlights Wijerathne’s academic ability and the university’s microbiology program. 

“This award informs academics and healthcare professionals worldwide that Alabama State University’s microbiology program and its graduate students – like Ms. Wijerathne — are conducting and being recognized for achieving the highest level of research that helps lessen the effects of disease, and helps us, as a university, recruit more gifted students to study within our microbiology graduate program, which will contribute to the cycle of greatness that ASU is known for worldwide,” says Matthews. 

Wijerathne, a Sri Lankan native, is on track to graduate with her Ph.D next year. 

Bowie State University Unveils New Martin Luther King, Jr. Center

Bowie State University celebrated the opening of its state-of-the-art Martin Luther King, Jr. Center, designed to inspire students.

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Bowie State University officially inaugurated the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center. The landmark facility is designed to foster creativity and inspire students to harness their voices for social change. Costing $166 million and spanning 192,000 square feet, the center is set to become the heart of BSU’s communications and humanities programs.

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The grand opening ceremony attracted state and local officials, university leaders, and project partners to witness the ribbon-cutting event. 

BSU President Aminta H. Breaux emphasized the center’s significance, stating, “Every student receiving a BSU education will pass through this building at some point in their curriculum. The cutting-edge tools and resources found here will elevate instruction of the liberal arts and enable students to find their own voice and develop skills to navigate real-world challenges in their future careers.” 

Accordingly, elements inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s powerful words are central to the building’s design. Abstract impressions of vocal sound waves from his 1964 Nobel Peace Prize speech are incorporated into the façade and main entrances, echoing his message of courage and resilience.

The two-year construction project was collaborative between architect Perkins & Will and construction manager Whiting-Turner. The design emphasizes visibility, connectivity, and storytelling, creating an environment where community and dialogue thrive.

Honoring 1st Lt. Richard W. Collins III

Among the noteworthy features of the center is the 1st Lt. Richard W. Collins III Alcove. The tribute honors the slain BSU student killed in a hate crime in 2017 shortly after his Army commissioning. This dedicated space serves as a site for reflection and collaboration, drawing inspiration from Collins’s commitment to service. 

His mother, Dawn Collins, expressed what the tribute means to the family. “The Collins family is overwhelmed with gratitude and inspiration by this tremendously powerful gesture to honor the memory and legacy of our beloved son, 1st Lieutenant Richard W. Collins III. “We want to thank President Breaux, along with her faculty and staff, for bestowing upon us this very high honor,” says Collins.

The center houses innovative learning environments tailored to study communication and humanities disciplines. Facilities include advanced television studios, streaming and podcasting studios, digital editing labs, and a custom-designed vocal recording booth. Additionally, the center accommodates specialized classrooms, including two-tiered rooms seating 150 students each.

Designed with community engagement in mind, the center features a versatile 1,500-seat auditorium capable of hosting events. It also supports the university’s ROTC program with dedicated training spaces.

Artwork integrated throughout the center pays homage to Dr. King’s ideals and BSU’s rich history. This includes a mural titled “Conversation” by Washington, D.C., artist Victor Ekpuk.

Gadsden State and Samford University Agreement Enhances Student Pathways

Samford University and Gadsden State Community College have signed a Memor of Understanding to create guaranteed student admission pathways.

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Samford University and Gadsden State Community College have formally partnered to simplify the journey for Gadsden State students seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree at Samford. The agreement, created in a newly established Memorandum of Understanding, ensures that eligible Gadsden State students will receive guaranteed admission to Samford provided they meet the university’s specified requirements.

This collaboration includes completer and full degree programs, pre-transfer advising, and scholarships aimed at easing students’ transition from a two-year to a four-year institution. Notably, the arrangement is particularly advantageous for those who have earned technical degrees at Gadsden State. These degrees are often regarded as non-transferable, but this agreement will allow them to seamlessly transfer their credits to Samford.

Seeing The Impact

Riley Hull, a Gadsden State paralegal studies student, is one student benefiting from the partnership.  

“My goal is to be a lawyer one day, and it means so much to have two schools invested in my success for the future,” said student Hull. “We didn’t know how it would work out, so to see this agreement come in place for students for years to come really represents how education should work for all.”

In addition to easing traditional bachelor’s degree pathways, the MOU encourages reverse transfer agreements. This provision allows Gadsden State to remain informed about students’ academic progress, enabling those who transfer before graduating to obtain their associate degree after completing a designated number of credit hours at Samford. 

Dr. Beck A. Taylor, President of Samford University, expressed the institution’s dedication to empowering students through education. “Higher education is all about serving the students today who will lead the achievements of tomorrow, and this agreement reflects our commitment to educational excellence for students who begin their journey at Gadsden State and continue through Samford,” said Dr. Beck.

The partnership with Samford University adds to Gadsden State’s list of collaborations with various four-year universities. The MOU extends beyond Alabama’s legislative requirements, which mandate that core credit classes completed at the state’s two-year colleges transfer to public four-year institutions. Dr. Kathy L. Murphy, President of Gadsden State, emphasized the college’s commitment to supporting student success. “Gadsden State is committed to developing every avenue with our four-year partners that ensures and enhances our students’ experiences for success, and this MOU is a significant step in expanding those opportunities,” she said.

Elizabeth City State University Celebrates Grand Reopening of Commuter Center and Bowling Alley

Elizabeth City State University celebrated the grand reopening of its newly renovated Commuter Center and Bowling Alley.

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Elizabeth City State University held a grand reopening ceremony on Tuesday for its newly renovated Commuter Center and Bowling Alley. The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the launch of the innovative academic and recreational campus space.

The event doubled as a special meet-and-greet with Interim Chancellor Catherine Edmonds. Edmonds was named the interim chief executive officer and chancellor of ECSU on July 1. Before that, she served as chief of staff at North Carolina Central University.

Students, faculty, alums, and board members gathered to witness the unveiling of the modernized facility, which houses upgraded amenities tailored to support academic and recreational activities. 

ECSU students gather at the campus bowling alley in 2018.

“Inside the Commuter Center and Bowling Alley, you’ll find various areas where students can conduct meetings in an open environment and participate in the Physical Education Institutional Lab and the eSports and Virtual Reality Auxiliary Lab,” said Interim Chancellor Catherine Edmonds in her address to the crowd.   

The bowling alley has historically served as a focal point for social interaction among ECSU Vikings. The renovations aim to enhance this community hub. 

“This newly designed facility is not just a building. It is a testament to our commitment to ensure that our students love where they live and learn,” Edmonds expressed.    

The renovated facility provides students spaces for friendly competitions in games such as bowling, pool tables, and even video games. The enhancements align with ECSU’s ongoing efforts to enrich student life and foster a sense of community on campus.

Following the ceremony, Kevin Wade, vice chancellor of Student Affairs and interim vice chancellor of University Advancement, surprised the crowd by presenting a pair of custom bowling shoes to Edmonds on behalf of the student body. The shoes were wrapped with the school’s signature blue color rhinestones.

Coahoma Community College Celebrates 100% Pass Rate for Practical Nursing Graduates

Coahoma Community College announced that all graduates of its Practical Nursing Program achieved a 100% passing rate on the PN-NCLEX.

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Coahoma Community College proudly announced that all graduates of its Practical Nursing Program for the 2023-2024 academic year achieved a 100% passing rate on the PN-NCLEX, the National Council Licensure Examination for Nurses.

Coahoma’s practical nursing program is a 12-month certificate program that prepares students as a licensed practical nurse. 

Celebrating Success

Dr. Annie Hankins, Director of the Practical Nursing Program, praised the performance of the nursing students and instructors. “This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to our students’ hard work, dedication, and exceptional skills,” said Dr. Hankins. It also reflects the unwavering support and guidance provided by their outstanding instructors, Mrs. Teri Williams, Mrs. Katrina Harrell, and Ms. Jessica Robinson. Their commitment to excellence has genuinely paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder.”

Similarly, the Dean of Health Science, Dr. Chequitia Dixon, echoed Dr. Hankins’ sentiments. “Our students have demonstrated remarkable perseverance and dedication throughout their studies. The 100% passing rate is a clear indication of their readiness to enter the nursing profession and make a meaningful impact,” she said. “Congratulations to each of these students for this fantastic achievement. Their success highlights their exceptional individual sacrifices and sets a high standard for future practical nursing cohorts.”

The college views its dedication to quality education and the unwavering support of its faculty and staff as its foundation for student achievement. 

“This 100% passing rate is more than just a statistic; it is a celebration of the dedication, hard work, and passion of our students and faculty,” said Dr. Hankins. “We at Coahoma Community College and the Division of Health Science look forward to seeing all of these licensed practical nurses positively impact the nursing profession, and we are confident that future cohorts will strive to meet this standard.”

Coahoma’s Office of Health Science also offers an associate degree in nursing, paramedics, polysomnography, and respiratory care. Its short-term programs include emergency medicine technician, phlebotomy, EKG, and nursing assistant. 

Claflin University Joins Workforce Edge to Empower Employees with Education Opportunities

As a Workforce Edge network partner, Claflin University will now offer employees access to its academic programs.

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Claflin University proudly announces it is joining the Workforce Edge network. Workforce Edge, a full-service education benefits administration solution for employees powered by Strategic Education, Inc., allows employers to offer their workforce higher education options that are relevant, innovative and affordable.

Workforce Edge partner employees will have access to a range of Claflin’s exceptional academic programs and learn from its world-class faculty. The partnership reflects Claflin’s commitment to enhancing job skills and promoting economic mobility. 

“This vital partnership will broaden our perspectives on student recruitment and expand our focus on workforce development by attracting more students to Claflin who are currently employed but need more education to achieve their professional and personal goals,” said Claflin President Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack. “We are excited to join the Workforce Edge network to help increase the job skills and performance of the students who enroll in our educational programs. This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing economic mobility.”

Claflin University will offer several degree options to Workforce Edge employer partners. These programs include:
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN)
  • Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)\Master of Curriculum and Instruction
  • Master of Biotechnology – Climate Change
  • Master of Nursing Administration
  • Master of Science in Nursing
  • Master of Criminal Justice

Workforce Edge partner employees can choose the academic major that best aligns with their goals.

“This partnership with Claflin University will help remove barriers to education through employer-backed learning and development opportunities,” said Karl McDonnell, CEO of Strategic Education, Inc. “We are proud to have Claflin University join our network and provide our Workforce Edge employer partners with additional opportunities to advance economic mobility for their workforce.”

Other Historically Black Colleges and Universities partnered with Workforce Edge include Alabama State University, Howard University,  Morris Brown College, and Virginia State University.

Talladega College Leaders Resign Amid Financial Crisis 

Amid mounting financial pressures, it appears Talladega College is experiencing significant leadership changes.

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According to an unconfirmed report from Growth Media Firm, Talladega College is facing considerable instability, including the sudden resignation of Chief Financial Officer Sama A. Mondeh. Mondeh also held the title of Senior Vice President for Finance and Facilities. His resignation has raised alarms about the college’s financial situation, including its ability to meet payroll obligations for August.

Mondeh’s resignation was joined by Mr. Terry Smiley, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and Vice President of Eastern Market at Alabama Power Company.  

The source states that the U.S. Department of Education visited Talladega College last week, fueling speculation regarding the institution’s fiscal management. Students recently received their refund checks, which had been delayed since the previous semester and they are on track to disperse refunds on time this semester. 

However, reports indicate that Talladega College is facing another financial hurdle, substantial debts including an outstanding bill of over $4 million owed to a vendor supplying textbooks. Although the college has made a $500,000 payment toward this debt, uncertainty remains about its ability to settle the total amount.

Further complicating matters, an anonymous source has raised serious allegations concerning the institution’s fiscal practices. According to the whistleblower, many faculty and staff members have reportedly experienced gaps in health insurance coverage over the past year, raising concerns about compliance with employment laws. 

The anonymous source claims that many students have not received federal refund checks. This includes 48 members of this year’s graduating class. The source states that these funds, along with Title III funding for educational support and McNair Scholars Program funds for disadvantaged students, were used to cover payroll obligations. Repurposing Title III money for this purpose would violate federal regulations. 

The mounting financial pressures have led to unpaid vendors, prompting some to take legal action against the college.

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.”