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

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

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

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

Golden Bear Gratitude

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Professor Aims to Revolution Aquaculture 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dr. Nyteisha Bookert

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One Year Celebration Event

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grambling State University Unveils First HBCU Digital Library

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

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

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

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

The Vision

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Elizabeth City State University Sees Enrollment Surge for Fifth Consecutive Year

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

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

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

Addressing The Growth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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”.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.”