Saint Augustine’s University Announces 2024 Commencement: A Celebration Of Resilience, Hope, & Achievement

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RALEIGH, NC — Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) is buzzing with excitement as it announces the highly anticipated 2024 Commencement Ceremony and 93rd Baccalaureate Exercise, a momentous occasion on May 4th. This event marks a significant milestone in the university’s history. It is a testament to the tireless dedication of its faculty, staff, and students, who have continued to shine amidst challenges and adversity.

“I’ve grown to love these students. I’ve been here the whole time with them this semester, hearing their stories, their ups and downs, and what they have learned since being here,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess while on The Bird’s Eye View. 

“They love SAU, and ensuring that they have the graduation is what all of us want them to have. It is very important that they leave on a high note. So, by any means necessary, we want to ensure it’s a successful time.”

The Class of 2024, a shining example of SAU’s enduring legacy, is ready to cross the stage and embark on the next chapter of their lives. With close to 150 students, this graduating class is the largest in almost a decade, a testament to the resilience and perseverance of both students and the university itself.

“Our core business is producing graduates. That is what we do. When we have the commencement exercises and see the students walk across the stage, we also see the great work that has happened on our campus to help facilitate that. It brings me pride in our faculty, who have made it possible,” said SAU Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Janelle Jennings-Alexander while on The Bird’s Eye View. 

“It’s a testament to the hard work that we are doing to help retain students, to help support them, to help ensure their success.”

The 2024 Commencement Ceremony and 93rd Baccalaureate Exercise at SAU are poignant reminders of the university’s resilience, vitality, and unwavering dedication to student success.

“As a 2020 high school graduate, I had no ambitions of college when it was time to start thinking about going to school. The world was at a halt, and by the time I took college seriously, every college I was interested in attending was already spoken for. One day #SaintAugustineUniversity gave me a chance,” said graduating senior and Student Trustee Miles Beasley in an Instagram Post. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/C6G0MSCOSVW/?img_index=1

“If it had not been for the people here, God knows where I would be. It’s my honor to serve, help, guide, and learn that the environment here at #SaintAugustine’sUniversity is like no other.”

Thanks to the steadfast support and commitment of the university’s alumni and supporters, the event promises to celebrate hope, achievement, and the enduring legacy of Saint Augustine’s University.

“As we celebrate this momentous occasion, remember the resilience and unity defining the SAU community. The Class of 2024 represents our collective strength and perseverance,” said graduating senior and Student Government Association President Ariana White while on The Bird’s Eye View. “With graduation on the way, I feel good about the future of SAU. My faith is strong.”

The commencement ceremony will feature SAU alumnus Rev. Charles W. Brooks, ’82, as the distinguished keynote speaker. Rev. Brooks, a pillar of the community and organizer of the Raleigh Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance’s support for SAU, embodies the spirit of service and commitment to uplifting the next generation of leaders.

Rev. Charles Weldon Brooks, born December 19th, 1959, is a native of Winston Salem, North Carolina. Brooks is the seventh of eight children born to the late William C. and Ruby Sorrell Brooks. At the age of five, Rev. Brooks lost his mother and moved to Raleigh, North Carolina, to be raised by his grandparents, the late Weldon and Grace Sorrell. While in Raleigh, he grew up in the Manly Street United Church of Christ, known today as Macedonia New Life Church.

In 1978, Rev. Brooks graduated from Broughton High School. He began a successful study of history and government at Saint Augustine’s College in Raleigh. In September of 1979, Rev. Brooks answered the call. He preached his initial sermon under then Pastor D.A. Peace, Sr. While in college, God called Rev. Brooks to serve as Pastor of the Pleasant Union United Church of Christ in Raleigh. After serving the church for three years, Rev. Brooks graduated from Saint Augustine’s College with a B.A. in History and Government in 1982.

After graduation, Rev. Brooks was accepted and entered Duke Divinity School, Durham, NC, later transferring to The School of Theology at Virginia Union University, earning a Master of Divinity degree in 1987. During his tenure in the seminary, he served two years as interim pastor of the Providence United Church of Christ in Chesapeake, Virginia.

Upon graduation, he returned to North Carolina to serve as Pastor of the Children’s Chapel United Church of Christ until July 1990. In 1990, Charles accepted the challenge of leading a great congregation in Raleigh, the Poplar Springs Christian Church. Since this union, the church has grown from 300 to 1200 disciples. In 1996, they added a new sanctuary and educational wing to the old structure for 1.2 million.

With all his success, Rev. Brooks declares that his greatest accomplishment was marrying his friend Regina M. Brooks, whom he has known for 35 years. Mrs. Brooks is the IT Manager for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services Division of Child Development. They have three children, Charles II, Renita, and Briana, all proud graduates of HBCUs, Morehouse, Tuskegee, and North Carolina Central University.

SAU’s Class of 2024 is a testament to excellence and diversity, with more than half (54%) graduating with a 3.0 GPA or better and over a third (35%) with honors and students from 16 states and three countries.

Click here for more information about the 2024 Commencement.

About Saint Augustine’s University Founded in 1867 by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, the mission of Saint Augustine’s University is to sustain a learning community in which students can prepare academically, socially and spiritually for leadership in a complex, diverse and rapidly changing world.

Xavier University Inks Deal To Create Fifth HBCU Medical School In The U.S.

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Xavier University of Louisiana is a private, historically black, Catholic university in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Xavier University of Louisiana, a leading undergraduate institution in preparing Black students to complete medical school successfully, has announced continued progress with Ochsner Health, the Gulf South’s leading academic medical center in training physicians, to launch their transformational Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine (XOCOM).

This groundbreaking partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing medical education by addressing health disparities in diverse communities and helping fulfill the urgent need for more physicians in Louisiana and the nation. The new medical school will be in the burgeoning BioDistrict New Orleans, located downtown in Benson Tower next to Caesars Superdome.

“With the establishment of the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine, Ochsner and Xavier aim to address long-standing health disparities and foster stronger, healthier communities in pursuit of the mission to promote a more just and humane society gifted to Xavier nearly 100 years ago by our foundress, St. Katharine Drexel and her Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament,” said Dr. Reynold Verret, President of Xavier University of Louisiana. 

“Our partnership with Ochsner affirms our commitment to advancing health equity and excellence. XOCOM will provide cutting-edge medical training and biomedical research and, through a culture of mentorship and leadership, empower our students to be agents of change in healthcare.”

At a XOCOM signing celebration on April 29, 2024, Xavier and Ochsner officials announced that Dr. Leonardo Seoane, MD, FACP, Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer of Ochsner Health, will serve as the new HBCU medical school’s founding dean.

“Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine was born from a truly collaborative vision between Xavier University of Louisiana and Ochsner Health. It epitomizes our collective dedication to providing academic excellence in training the next generation of physicians, while fostering healthcare equity in New Orleans and throughout the United States,” said Dr. Seoane, Dean of Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine. “

By addressing the critical shortage of physicians in standing up this HBCU medical school in the Gulf South, XOCOM will pursue diversity in medicine and ensure equitable representation in healthcare to better serve our communities for generations to come.”

The announcement follows votes by the Xavier University of Louisiana Board of Trustees and the Ochsner Health Board of Directors in February to approve the formation of the new medical school. On Monday, officials announced XOCOM’s founding board of directors, which includes Xavier and Ochsner appointees:

  • Reynold Verret, PhD, President, Xavier University of Louisiana
  • Pete November, CEO, Ochsner Health
  • Trevonne M. Thompson, M.D., FAAEM, FACEP, FACMT, Associate Dean, Admissions, University of Illinois College of Medicine
  • Matthew Block, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, Ochsner Health
  • Gary C. Butts, M.D., Executive Vice President, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Mount Sinai Health System
  • Veronica Gillispie-Bell, M.D., MAS, FACOG, Senior Site Lead and Section Head, Women’s Services, Ochsner Kenner; Medical Director of Quality, Women’s Services, Ochsner Health; Medical Director of Minimally Invasive Center for Treatment of Uterine Fibroids, Ochsner Health; Associate Professor, Ochsner Clinical School
  • Gregory N. Rattler Sr., Managing Director, JP Morgan Chase
  • Deborah Grimes, RN, JD, MSHQS, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, Ochsner Health

Slated to be the only Historically Black College and University (HBCU) medical school in the Gulf South when it opens, XOCOM expands opportunities for New Orleans’ downtown area as part of the BioDistrict. This development district is growing biosciences and the local economy. As XOCOM advances healthcare equity and expands the physician workforce in the Gulf South, the medical school will also help the BioDistrict lead the region in healthcare excellence and promote inclusive, equitable job growth.

“Ochsner Health is committed to meeting the needs of the diverse communities we serve, and we are honored to continue our work with Xavier University of Louisiana to improve the health and wellbeing of New Orleans, our state and region,” said Pete November, CEO, Ochsner Health.

“By providing excellent training to more diverse physicians so they may better serve our communities, we are not only investing in the future of healthcare, but also the long-term prosperity and wellness for our many neighbors, friends and family members throughout the Gulf South.”

Reimagination of Healthcare to Improve Outcomes

Through the establishment of XOCOM, Xavier, and Ochsner aspire to redefine the landscape of medicine by nurturing a new cadre of physicians who authentically mirror the communities they serve. XOCOM’s vision is to unleash the power of diversity, transform medical education, and train compassionate physician-scientists who will champion inclusivity and excellence in medicine.

XOCOM will boast state-of-the-art medical technology and facilities, providing students with immersive learning experiences and hands-on training opportunities. The curriculum will emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, clinical proficiency, and compassionate patient care, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to address the complex healthcare challenges of the 21st century.

Xavier University of Louisiana will seek approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The new medical school, XOCOM, will seek preliminary accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). Accreditation is expected to take about three years and will be followed by recruitment. XOCOM aims to seat 50 students in the first class, and the medical school will continue to grow as it develops.

When it opens, the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine will join the nation’s four existing historically Black medical schools: Howard University College of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, and the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.

Research shows an urgent need for this HBCU College of Medicine, as the demand for diverse doctors is expected to grow considerably. Every year, 25% of the incoming interns in the National Resident Matching Program come from foreign medical schools because there are not enough U.S. Medical School graduates.

The Association of American Medical Colleges has projected a total shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036. Louisiana is projected to rank third nationally for a shortage of physicians by 2030, with rural and underserved communities expected to be impacted the most. Black doctors make up just 5.7% of the nation’s physicians, but Black populations account for 13.6% of U.S. residents.

Studies show representation in medicine truly matters. A 2022 report in the National Library of Medicine emphasized that diversity in medicine plays a crucial role in enhancing health outcomes, as it improves quality access to healthcare services and fosters patient trust.

Working Together in the BioDistrict

Xavier and Ochsner are uniquely qualified to open a new HBCU medical school. For decades, Xavier, one of the country’s top-ranked HBCUs, has produced more Black students who achieve medical degrees and doctorates in the health sciences than any other higher education institution in the nation. Ochsner has a history of investing in communities and health equity, and demonstrated experience training physicians, annually instructing over 330 residents and fellows through graduate medical education.

Ochsner and Xavier’s partnership began in the 1980s with the College of Pharmacy, which ranks among the top in the nation in producing Black graduates with Doctor of Pharmacy degrees. More recently, the two institutions partnered to create a Physician Assistant (PA) program, new graduate programs in health sciences and the Ochsner Health and Xavier University Institute for Health Equity and Research (OXIHER).

Working together in the BioDistrict, leaders in economic development, higher education, business, and nonprofits are creating a vibrant, authentic, and engaging place where industry and the community convene to tackle global challenges in health and wellness. The BioDistrict will drive the regional economy through strategic investments, grow the city’s biosciences and health innovation ecosystem, and create jobs and economic opportunities for New Orleanians.

By anchoring their partnership with the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine (XOCOM), Xavier and Ochsner will advance healthcare excellence, bring new opportunities to marginalized populations, and create stellar medical education for future generations.

To learn more, please visit www.xula.edu and www.ochsner.org.

Delaware State University Announces Two Administrative Position Changes

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DSU is a privately governed, state-assisted historically black land-grant research university in Dover, Delaware.

DOVER — Delaware State University is headed toward change as two seasoned administrators announced changes to their positions this week.

Dr. Saundra DeLauder, provost and chief academic officer, will step down as of June 30, while Dr. Vita Pickrum, foundation president and head of institutional advancement will retire on Dec. 31. 

DSU President Dr. Tony Allen announced the news to staff and faculty on April 25 in an email, noting that he will soon detail a transition strategy for both positions. DSU officials declined to comment further to the Delaware Business Times.

DeLauder was appointed as DSU’s sixth provost in May 2020, after Allen vacated that post to become president of the historically Black university, leaving a void in DSU’s leadership. She previously served as the dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research from 2013 through 2017 and vice provost from August 2017 through 2019. 

According to DSU, the Office of the Provost oversees college deans, the various academic departments, “additional locations and related academic activities in coordination with the Office of the President.”

Dr. Saundra DeLauder, provost and chief academic officer
Dr. Vita Pickrum, foundation president and head of institutional advancement

Historical records from the school show that the provost position was created under the leadership of DeLauder’s late father-in-law, William B. DeLauder, when he was DSU’s president from 1987 to 2003.

After the North Carolinian native steps down from that role later this year, she will remain at the University as a full professor in the College of Agriculture, Science & Technology following a “one-year administrative sabbatical” during which she will continue to identify ways for the University to grow. 

“She has agreed to work on special projects for the University, including determining the best use of the testing laboratory at the Kirkwood campus and how to meet the growing program needs for research expansion, contracting, and other revenue generation. I have also asked her to help lead our efforts with Thurgood Marshall College Fund to build a new online platform, as a part of the HBCU Transformation Project,” Allen said in the statement. 

DeLauder had 26 years of higher educational experience before her roles at DSU, including becoming North Carolina Central University’s first female full professor and its first-tenured female chemistry professor.

DSU has traditionally appointed a search committee for its next provost, including in 2020 and 2017, when DeLauder and Allen were selected respectively. No such committee has been announced for the upcoming search at this time.

Shelomi Sanders Returning To An HBCU After Colorado Exit

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Coach Prime’s Daughter Shelomi Sanders Has Committed To Dawn Thornton And The Alabama A&M Bulldogs

Former Jackson State guard and Colorado transfer Shelomi Sanders has announced through a video on her YouTube channel that she has committed to play at Alabama A&M for newly hired head coach Dawn Thornton.

In the video, Sanders shows herself on a visit to Alabama A&M, walking in the locker room and seeing her new uniform before cutting to her wearing it, saying, “You see it.”

“I was just enjoying the moment because I’m a Bulldog,” says Sanders in the video. “I had a good time. As y’all can see, I committed, and we finna T up.”

Her father, Colorado and former Jackson State football coach Deion Sanders, was not happy with her decision to leave Boulder, Colorado. 

“Which was stupid,” Deion Sanders said. “You get a team before you enter the portal. That’s what I would advise a child. I know it’s illegal, c’mon, c’mon. Everybody knows somebody that knows somebody, that knows somebody. You kind of want them to do something. … And she truly has been advised.” 

“You have to understand. I am a real father; I am a real man and a real dad. Where I come from and historically, kids follow their parents. When do parents start following their kids? That doesn’t work in my book. That does not work where I am from. I am the leader of the family, I have been dictating where my kids go, not them dictating where I go.”

Thornton was hired at Alabama A&M on April 6. She coached for the past five years at Arkansas-Pine Bluff. 

“Shelomi is just what we need on ‘The Hill,'” Thornton told the Clarion Ledger on Friday.

“Not only does she want to make a name for herself, but we also have the platform and the resources for her to do it. She is well-known for her game behind the arc, and I love big guards that can score the ball. She has great athleticism and will make it very hard for teams to zone us. Shelomi’s commitment and determination will send her potential through the roof.” 

This will be Sanders’ third different team she has committed to in her college career.

Shelomi Sanders played at Jackson State under former coach Tomekia Reed, on a team that went 22-10 in 2022. The former Jackson State player has received limited playing time in her first two collegiate seasons. She has played in just seven games, averaging 3.1 minutes per game.

Claflin University Vice President Injured In Shooting

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ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) – Claflin University identified the victim of a shooting last Wednesday night in Orangeburg as its Vice President for Student Development and Services.

According to an incident report from the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, Dr. Leroy A. Durant, Ph.D., was driving home from the university when he was shot in the head.

Durant told police he was driving on Belleville Road when he heard a loud noise while passing Mingo Street. He then started to feel lightheaded and dizzy. He said he drove himself to MUSC in Orangeburg when he noticed blood coming from his head.

The incident also stated the bullet was through and through but did not pierce Durant’s skull. University officials said in a press release Durant was treated for his injuries and was later released.

Claflin University Students felt a sense of shock when they learned of what took place.

“I was really surprised. I was surprised because I literally just saw him right before the situation had happened and not only that, but afterward, and just reading over the email, my heart just starts to drop,” said Kenneth White, III., a Claflin University Sophomore.

“Friends around start telling me he got shot. I was like…. ‘What!’ So after that, I couldn’t do nothing but pray.”

According to the university, Durant has been a Clafflin administrator for more than 22 years. In the press release, the university said Durant’s priorities have always been the safety and welfare of the students. They added the university community, his family and friends are praying for his speedy recovery.

“When we received the information, the students was in shock and worried about Dr. Durant’s health. He played a big figure here at Claflin University. I just want to send him the best regards and prayers. I’ll keep him in my prayers and a speedy recovery,” said Darius Wright, a Claflin University Junior.

The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office told WIS News 10 they are investigating the shooting.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Durant and the Claflin University community during this time.

Texas Southern University’s Law School Responds To State’s DEI Job Cuts

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Texas Southern University x HBCU
Texas Southern University (TSU) // Credit: michelmond/Alamy Live News

Texas universities are facing job cuts due to the enforcement of Senate Bill 17, which prohibits Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in publicly funded universities.

The bill also bans mandatory diversity training and restricts hiring departments from asking for diversity statements, essays in which job applicants talk about their commitment to building diverse campuses.

The Associated Press reported that over 100 jobs have been eliminated across the state as a result of this bill.

Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, who filed the bill in 2023, argued at the time that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices in academic institutions impose political beliefs on faculty members and students and prioritize social justice over merit and achievement.

“DEI programs have been shown to be exclusive, they have been shown to be ineffective and they have shown to be politically charged,” he said. “Many of these programs have been weaponized to compel speech instead of protecting free speech.”

The bill was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 17th, 2023, and it came into effect on January 1, 2024.

At Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law, the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are woven into its fabric.

“We are lucky that we do not have a certain group or certain offices, positions that we have to eliminate. Our whole mission is diversity equity inclusion. You cannot eliminate a mission,” said TSU Law Review editor Lauren Gonzales. 

Despite these job cuts, Gonzales believes that historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have the potential to make progress. Recently, a panel discussion was held at the law school, where government leaders and students discussed the matter.

The Thurgood Marshall School of Law is an ABA-accredited law school at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas.

“You cannot eliminate a mission.” – Lauren Gonzales

“It’s mind-boggling to me that folks want to go backward, they want to stay in the darkness. They want to stay in a time where people who look like us were not given the opportunity,” said State Rep. Armando Walle of House District 140 in Harris County.

Supporters of SB 17 are taking strong measures to ensure its compliance, even sending letters to universities such as the University of Texas at Austin. According to an Austin American-Statesman report, many DEI staff members there are being laid off.

In a statement to KHOU 11, SB 17 author Senator Brandon Creighton said it’s the strongest DEI ban in the nation.

“DEI has produced less diversity, divided students, and mandated political loyalty oaths before anyone gets an interview,” Creighton said. “It’s been a failed experiment that threatens free speech and is a drag on research and innovation at many of our best colleges and universities.” 

Critics argue that dismissing or letting go of staff will not lead to a welcoming and inclusive environment in higher education institutions.

“This is the time now more than ever that we have to double down on supporting our HBCU and alone actually giving back if you can. Because when you look at things like DEI, this is literally the reason our HBCUs were necessary,” said State Rep. Rhetta Bowers of House District 113 in Dallas.

North Carolina Central University Wins 2024 HBCU Jazz Combo Competition

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The North Carolina Central University Jazz Ensemble in 2023. | Photo Courtesy of NCCU website.

North Carolina Central University Jazz Combo is the winner of the 2024 HBCU Jazz Combo Challenge!

NCCU’s Jazz Studies program has garnered recognition as a premier university program. In 2023, the Jazz Combo from NCCU secured the top prize in MJF’s national HBCU Jazz Combo Challenge, earning the opportunity to perform at the Monterey Jazz Festival.

Founded by jazz trumpeter Donald Byrd and guided by saxophonist, flutist, and educator Dr. Ira Wiggins, NCCU’s jazz faculty includes artists-in-residence Branford Marsalis and Joey Calderazzo; Jazz Studies director and director of NCCU’s Combo 1, Robert Trowers (trombone); Albert Strong (trumpet); Helm Hammonds who directs NCCU’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble; Maurice Myers (vocals); Jim Crew (piano); J.C. Martin (guitar); Thomas Taylor (drums and percussion); Damon Brown (bass); Shaena Ryan (reeds and saxophone); and Keenan McKenzie (saxophones).

The group will return to the Monterey Jazz Festival this September.

Click here to learn more about NCCU’s music department.

Amanda Seales: Our HBCU Advocate

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Comedian, actress, writer, producer, and more, Amanda Seales doesn’t just make you laugh, she makes a change!

With an uncanny knack for taking serious topics (racism, rape culture, sexism, police brutality, etc.) and with humor, making them relatable and interesting, she combines intellectual wit, silliness, and a pop culture obsession to create her unique style of smart funny content for the stage and screens.

Amanda Seales is a comedian and creative visionary, seamlessly blending humor and intellect, her unique style of smart funny content spans various genres across the entertainment and multi-media landscape. 

Moreover, Seales has been a consistent advocate for Black voices and institutions, — such as HBCUs. As we reflect on Amanda’s Club Shay Shay’s interview last week, we look back on 5 times Seales stepped for HBCUs.

Amanda Speaks On Race, Identity, & Politics At Xavier University

In 2018, Amanda spoke at Xavier University of Louisiana. Her students, who doubled as fans, laughed, cried, and yelled, “Preach, Amanda.” Seales is a comedian, actress, writer, and producer. But when she stood in front of a room full of students in Xavier’s University Center Ballroom on Wednesday, she became a teacher. 

After leading an impromptu rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing and encouraging students to be vocal and fearless, she talked a little about historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Seales said that Xavier and all HBCUs should be an open space to discuss difficult issues, such as police brutality, that affect African Americans. She added that the first place to initiate change is on campus by helping others.

“Everybody in here agrees that police brutality is out of hand,” she said. “So when Kap takes a knee and you see folks that still want to watch the NFL and still kind of want to ignore the power in that.”

Amanda Becomes Ambassador For UNCF’s ‘HBCU Bound’ Initiative

In May 2022, The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) launched their month-long initiative titled “HBCU Bound,” in celebration of high school graduates heading to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

Seales was among the digital ambassadors recruited to help push the message.

“HBCU Bound” is a nationwide student advocacy and recruitment initiative in collaboration with UNCF’s National Alumni Council (NAC) to support students committing to attend HBCUs including UNCF’s 37 member institutions. The widely celebrated campaign has partnered with several visionary Black luminaries and change agents advocating for equitable education and utilizing their platforms to advance educational enrichment.

Amanda On ‘The HBCU That Never Came To Life’

In January 2024, Amanda had Kimberly Renee guest star on her show to discuss the hidden history of the HBCU that never came to live in New Haven.

In 1831, New Haven’s white community leaders overwhelmingly rejected a serious proposal to found what would have been the first U.S. Black college, on the land where the interchange of I‑95 and I‑91 now exists.

Amanda frequently highlights HBCUs in various segments on her show via hidden history and HBCU Trivia.

Amanda On The Potential Closure of Three HBCUs

In February 2024, a new bill was introduced in the Mississippi State Legislature that could’ve led to the closure of three HBCUs: Mississippi Valley State University, Alcorn State University, and Jackson State University by June 2028. According to Senate Bill 2726 proposal, the State Institutions of Higher Learning would’ve been required to select three out of eight public universities by June 2025, with closure mandated by 2028.

During an episode on her podcast show, Seales discussed the potential impact the closure would have on Black kids in Mississippi seeking a higher education.

“I understand why HBCUs believe their schools could be on the chopping block,” Seales said at the time. “When we look at the nation’s efforts right now to silence Black voices, to roll things back in terms of equity, inclusion, and diversity it doesn’t seem like a far-fetched mission of them to try and limit the ability for Black folks in Mississippi to get a higher education.”

Amanda On The Supreme Court & Increased HBCU Enrollment

After many HBCUs witnessed a rise in admissions following last year’s decision by The Supreme Court to eliminate race from the admissions process, many questioned whether the rise could be specifically attributed to The Supreme Court decision or whether other factors were at play.

Amanda delved into the topic during an episode on her show.

“This is a testament to what happens when HBCUs are supported…”and just imagine what it would look like if HBCUs took over the academic landscape…”It’s time for us to wake up and smell the excellence brewing in our HBCUs, it’s our brilliance, it’s our legacy, it’s our power.”

HBCU Football Stars Shut Out In NFL Draft For Second Time In Four Years

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Photo Courtesy of Clutch Points

The 2024 NFL Draft has concluded and no HBCU player was selected in 257 picks, marking the first time since 2020 that no Black College football player was drafted. However, these top players have signed with teams as undrafted free agents and mini-camp invites. 

Undrafted free agents are players eligible for the NFL Draft but were not selected. They are free to negotiate and sign with any team. On the other hand, mini-camps are designed to familiarize the newly drafted rookies with the NFL playing schemes, and they also allow coaches and team administrators to see their new players in action learning plays from their new team’s playbook.

Here are the players who received an offer and where they will play.

UNDRAFTED FREE AGENTS

MINI CAMP INVITES

Various responses were expressed regarding the shortage of Black college players drafted. Some appreciated the autonomy that these players experienced, while others were frustrated with the NFL’s apparent lack of willingness to recognize the value of HBCUs. In the previous year, Deion Sanders, a former coach at Jackson State, stated that NFL teams who failed to draft players like Isaiah Bolden from HBCUs should feel ashamed.

It can be incredibly frustrating to witness events like the HBCU Combine and Legacy Bowl, which have the support of the NFL, not result in more players being drafted. It creates the impression of inclusivity, but when the same teams go on to sign numerous Black college players just hours – or sometimes even minutes – after the draft, it’s understandable why supporters of HBCUs might feel that the process is lacking.

Although we at HBCUs are aware of the value these institutions offer, I am confident that whenever and wherever HBCU players have the chance, they will continue to shine, whether during pro days, on the practice squad, or in the playoffs, when it matters most.

Remember, what matters is not how you get there, but what you do when you arrive!

Let’s wish all these young men the best of luck! 

Award-Winning Actress Angela Bassett Will Be Spelman College’s 2024 Keynote Speaker

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Angela Bassett was the Guest Speaker at Morehouse College in May 2019.

ATLANTA (April 25, 2024) – Spelman College announced today that actress, director, and executive producer Angela Bassett will be the keynote speaker for the College’s 137th Commencement Ceremony and will receive a Doctor of Fine Arts honorary degree.

The College will also award an honorary degree – Doctor of Laws – to trailblazing Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, as well as a National Community Service Award to highly acclaimed Atlanta journalist Rose Scott during Commencement at 3 p.m., Sunday, May 19, at the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC). 

The renowned social justice minister Reverend Dr. Yvette Flunder will address graduates during the Baccalaureate Ceremony at 10 a.m., Saturday, May 18, also at the GICC.

Bassett, an Honorary Oscar recipient, is known for captivating performances in iconic films, such as Malcolm X, Waiting to Exhale, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, Black Panther, Mission Impossible: Fallout and What’s Love Got to Do With It, for which she received an Academy Award nomination. Bassett returned as the beloved Queen Ramonda in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and received Golden Globe, Critics Choice, and NAACP Image Entertainer of the Year awards with Academy Award, SAG, and BAFTA nominations, as well as the Variety Creative Impact in Acting Award.

She is also the star and executive producer of the ABC/Disney hit drama 9-1-1, the recently released Netflix Originals blockbuster feature film Damsel, and is the narrator of the critically acclaimed NatGeo limited series Queens.

Bassett was named one of the Time 100 and Time Women of the Year in 2023, has earned multiple EMMY nominations, and is the recipient of numerous awards, including a SAG Award, 16 NAACP Image Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and the Black Girls Rock! Icon Award and many more.

“Spelman College is honored to have acclaimed actress and director Angela Bassett to bring words of inspiration to our graduating Class of 2024,” said Spelman College President Helene D. Gayle, M.D., MPH.

“Her work has had a tremendous impact both on and off the screen and serves as an example for our students to lead in their own spaces. We are equally honored to have a slate of strong Black women join us for our weekend ceremonies, including Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, Atlanta community icon Rose Scott, and the esteemed Reverend Dr. Yvette Flunder. We look forward to them inspiring our graduates, their families, and the Spelman community.”

The Class of 2024 includes 504 degree candidates, receiving 325 Bachelor of Arts and 179 Bachelor of Science degrees.

Class of 2024 Top Ten Scholars and Majors

Mika Keziah Campbell, co-Valedictorian, Mathematics

Nadia Scott, co-Valedictorian, History

Nailah Johnson, Salutatorian, Psychology

Alyssa Rodriguez, Biochemistry

Zoli Smith, Psychology

Beulah Andoh, Psychology

Kinka Kimfon, Health Science

Erin Grier, English

Rabiah Hubert, Psychology

Raegan Ewing, International Studies

2024 Honorary Degree
Ketanji Brown Jackson, associate justice, was born in Washington, D.C., on September 14, 1970. She received an A.B., magna cum laude, from Harvard-Radcliffe College in 1992, and a J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School in 1996. She served as a law clerk for Judge Patti B. Saris of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts from 1996 to 1997, Judge Bruce M. Selya of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit from 1997 to 1998, and Justice Stephen G. Breyer of the Supreme Court of the United States during the 1999 Term.

After three years in private practice, she worked as an attorney at the U.S. Sentencing Commission from 2003 to 2005. From 2005 to 2007, she served as an assistant federal public defender in Washington, D.C., and from 2007 to 2010, she was in private practice. She served as a vice chair and commissioner on the U.S. Sentencing Commission from 2010 to 2014. In 2012, President Barack Obama nominated her to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, where she served from 2013 to 2021.

She was appointed to the Defender Services Committee of the Judicial Conference of the United States in 2017, and the Supreme Court Fellows Commission in 2019. President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., appointed her to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in 2021 and then nominated her as an associate justice of the Supreme Court in 2022. She took her seat on June 30, 2022.

National Community Service Award
Spelman will also honor Rose Scott with the National Community Service Award for her almost two decades of public service as an award-winning journalist, a “curator of communication conversations” and a voice of accountability for local and national issues. Scott is the executive producer and host of the midday news program “Closer Look” broadcast on Atlanta’s NPR station, 90.1 FM – WABE. She joined WABE full-time in 2008. Prior to that, Scott began her public media career in 1999 at WCLK 91.9 FM at Clark Atlanta University.

“Closer Look” has become a signature broadcast for the community and brings together viewpoints from all sectors of society. In her role as executive producer and host, Scott has interviewed foreign heads of state, cabinet members, U.S. ambassadors, numerous consul generals, state and local elected officials as well as civic and social leaders.

Baccalaureate Ceremony
Reverend Dr. Yvette Flunder will serve as the speaker for the Baccalaureate Ceremony the day before Commencement. The Baccalaureate Ceremony is the final spiritual experience for Spelman College students. It provides the opportunity for the graduating class, along with their families and communities, to joyfully reflect on their spiritual growth and personal transformation as they prepare for Commencement on the following day.

Rev. Dr. Flunder founded the City of Refuge United Church of Christ in 1991. In 2003, Flunder was consecrated Presiding Bishop of The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries, a multi-denominational coalition of over 100 primarily African American Christian leaders and laity. Bishop Flunder is a graduate of the Certificate of Ministry and Master of Arts programs at Pacific School of Religion and received her Doctor of Ministry from San Francisco Theological Seminary.

She has also served as an adjunct professor and speaker at Pacific School of Religion and numerous seminaries and universities including Auburn, Brite Divinity, Chicago Theological, Columbia University, Drew, Duke, Eden, Howard, Lancaster, New York Theological and Yale.

For more information and to learn more about our speakers and Commencement activities, go to Schedule of Events (spelman.edu).

Jackson State University Bids Farewell To Women’s Basketball Coach Tomekia Reed

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Jackson State University has lost the face of its women’s basketball program.

Tomekia Reed was announced as the new head women’s basketball coach at Charlotte on Thursday afternoon. Her departure ends one of the most historic runs in the sport in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) with five consecutive regular season titles and three tournament titles.

Reed’s contract was up at the end of this season and she was discussing with the University the possibility of a new contract.

“I want to thank Tomekia for what she has done for Jackson State women’s basketball,” VP/Director of Athletics Ashley Robinson said. “The work she did during her time here at Jackson State is unmatched and we wish her nothing but the best at Charlotte.”

In the last five seasons, Jackson State’s conference-winning percentage was among the highest in the country, per Tolly Carr from HBCU Gameday. JSU won an outstanding 95.4 percent of its conference games. That level of winning places Jackson State among the elite programs in the country, like UConn and South Carolina. Those winning percentages are listed below.

1. UConn — 96.5%
T-2. South Carolina — 96.3%
T-2. FGCU — 96.3%
4. Jackson State — 95.4%
5. Gonzaga — 95.3% (190 kB)

Reed was a four-time SWAC Coach of the Year during her time at JSU. She will be the ninth head coach in Charlotte women’s basketball history. Last year’s 49ers team finished 16-15 overall and 9-9 overall in the American Athletic Conference.

During her time at Jackson State, Tomekia Reed had two players drafted in the WNBA, Ameshya Williams-Holliday was selected by the Indiana Fever in 2022. Angel Jackson was selected by the Las Vegas Aces in this year’s draft.

Jackson State will begin a national search immediately for her replacement.

Morehouse College President Will Not Rescind Biden’s Commencement Invitation Despite Objections

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Morehouse College president Dr. David A. Thomas speaks during the Morehouse College commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 21, 2023, on Century Campus in Atlanta. The graduation marked Morehouse College’s 139th commencement program. CHRISTINA MATACOTTA FOR THE ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION

Despite student and some faculty objections, Dr. David Thomas, president of Morehouse College, has decided not to rescind Biden’s invitation to speak at commencement.

Chauncey Alcorn, political reporter for Capital B News was in the room Thursday night when President Thomas made the announcement and shared a thread of videos via X (formerly Twitter) from the forum.

In one of the clips, President Thomas can be heard saying he decided not to withdraw the invitation for several reasons. Dr. Thomas said Biden’s “body of work” over 50 years merits an honorary Morehouse degree and the world won’t see that as the school being “complicit with the atrocities that the Israeli military are committing in Gaza.”

President Thomas confirmed that he was the one who made the call to invite Biden and stressed that a presidential visit underscores Morehouse’s stature as an elite institution.

The pushback against leadership’s decision comes amid increasing protests on college campuses over Biden’s support for Israel in its war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The protests since the war began in October have already forced Biden, and other top administration officials, to scale back appearances at college campuses dramatically.

Commencement season is typically a time when presidents reach young audiences, and it offers them opportunities to deliver keynote addresses highlighting their accomplishments and the future. In an election year, commencement speeches can carry particular significance.

But Biden’s addresses this year are poised to be fraught, largely because of growing protests over his refusal to call for a permanent, immediate cease-fire in Gaza without conditions. Biden is struggling with younger voters, and recent polling also indicates many Black voters are not enthusiastic about supporting his candidacy.

Speaking at a historically Black college would provide an “opportunity” for Biden, according to a person familiar with the controversy.

Morehouse, like other colleges, has faced students speaking out about the war in Gaza. In February, the Maroon Tiger — Morehouse’s student publication — reported that a student pulled an Israeli flag down from the chapel and was detained by campus police.

Some Morehouse students and faculty take issue with Biden’s support for sending taxpayer-funded military aid to Israel amid the Gaza humanitarian crisis, which has left more than 34,000 Palestinians dead and millions more starving.

“Students are not in favor of the way in which the United States has handled this situation, and are surely not in favor of the trauma and the pain and the genocide that the Palestinian people are going through — but also that innocent civilians and Israel are going through as well,” Calvin Bell, a Morehouse College student said in February, after the flag incident.

When President Thomas was asked whether he thought what was happening in Gaza was a “genocide,” he refused to answer.

One student during the forum said there should be “parameters put on what Biden says” during his speech. Another condemned Biden’s support for sending billions in aid to Ukraine while Black folks in Georgia and nationwide who voted for him are struggling to keep their homes and pay their bills.

President Thomas said Morehouse is currently in conversations with the White House about doing more direct engagement with students during his visit. He said he would raise the students’ concerns with the White House.

Morehouse commencement will take place on May 19th in Atlanta, Georgia.

Breaking Barriers: HBCU Talents Shine in the 2024 NFL Draft

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Davius Richard - Football - North Carolina Central University Athletics

As anticipation builds for the 2024 NFL Draft, a spotlight shines brightly on players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). These athletes have distinguished themselves on the gridiron and are now poised to transition their exceptional skills to the National Football League. 

Davius Richard

Davius Richard, the dynamic quarterback from North Carolina Central, exemplifies the essence of a dual-threat QB with his remarkable ability to impact the game both through the air and on the ground. Throughout his college career, Richard has not only posted impressive stats but also demonstrated leadership qualities that make him a prime candidate for NFL teams seeking a versatile and effective leader.

Leadership and Dual-Threat Capability

Davius Richard’s tenure at North Carolina Central was highlighted by his dual-threat capabilities, which have set him apart as a standout player. His robust leadership and substantial production on the field underscore his readiness for the next level, where his skill set is expected to translate well into the professional game.

Jarveon Howard

Jarveon Howard, the powerful running back from Alcorn State, originally transferred from Syracuse, bringing with him an explosive style of play that could make him one of the premier talents to emerge from HBCU football programs. His ability to break tackles and accelerate downfield makes him a compelling prospect for NFL scouts.

Power Running and HBCU Impact

Howard’s time at Alcorn State has been marked by his strong, assertive running style. This trait, combined with his proven track record of high performance, positions him as a potential impact player in the NFL, where his skillset could thrive in a professional offensive setup.

Jeremy Moussa

Jeremy Moussa named Walter Payton Award Finalist - Florida A&M

Quarterback Jeremy Moussa from Florida A&M has been a pivotal figure in his team’s offense, amassing significant passing yards and touchdowns. His arm strength and accuracy have made him a key player to watch, and his potential selection in the NFL Draft could see him bring his considerable talents to a pro offense needing a dependable quarterback.

Passing Prowess and Draft Potential

Moussa’s career stats are a testament to his abilities as a quarterback. His consistent production and pivotal role in Florida A&M’s offense highlight his readiness to take on the challenges of the NFL, making him an attractive option for teams in search of a quarterback who can deliver both in terms of yardage and scoring.

Khalil Baker

Khalil Baker, the defensive back from North Carolina Central, is not only the winner of the Aeneas Williams Award but also a player known for his strong support against the run and his defensive capabilities in pass coverage. Baker’s versatility and defensive acumen have made him one of the top defensive prospects from the HBCU ranks.

Defensive Skillset and Professional Prospects

Baker has demonstrated a keen ability to impact games through his intelligent playmaking in both run support and pass defense. His skills are well-suited to the professional game, where his ability to adapt and perform at a high level will be invaluable.

Tairiq Stewart

Tairiq Stewart, an offensive tackle from North Carolina A&T, has been recognized for his physicality and his effectiveness in protecting the quarterback. His robust play in pass protection suggests that he will be a valuable asset to any NFL team looking to bolster its offensive line.

Physicality and Pass Protection

Stewart’s ability to maintain a strong pocket for his quarterback and his consistent performance in neutralizing defensive threats highlight his preparedness for the professional level. His physicality and technique make him a solid candidate for the draft, particularly for teams seeking to strengthen their offensive line. Most sportsbooks offer prop bets for the NFL Draft, Caesars Sportsbook North Carolina is going to have great promos to take advantage of if you are looking to raise the stakes and add some excitement to the draft or upcoming season.

Jordan Toles

Jordan Toles - Football - Morgan State University Athletics

Jordan Toles, a safety from Morgan State with prior experience at LSU, has made a name for himself with his hard-hitting style and reliable coverage abilities. His transition from LSU to Morgan State did not diminish his impact on the field, as evidenced by his continued excellence in defensive play.

Hard-Hitting Style and Coverage Skills

Toles’ approach to the safety position, characterized by aggressive play and solid coverage, makes him a standout prospect for the NFL. His ability to disrupt offensive plays and contribute to his team’s defensive schemes underscores his potential to succeed at the professional level.

Best of luck to these HBCU Talents!

Rising Epidemic: Addressing Traffic Fatalities Impacting HBCU Students

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In the past month, several tragic incidents have occurred at HBCUs across the United States. Six HBCU students have lost their lives due to traffic accidents in this month alone. This alarming rate of traffic fatalities among our students has become an urgent concern, demanding immediate action.

As we continue mourning the loss of our HBCU students, and with Spring Fest approaching, we want to raise awareness about safe driving practices that prioritize student safety both on and off campus. By highlighting these issues, we hope to encourage policies supporting investments in transportation infrastructure and safety measures nationwide.

We urge you to join us in addressing this rising epidemic so that we can protect the lives of our HBCU students. This article is a tribute to the memory of Jayrick Washington, Khai Walker, Chazan Page, Xiomara Moore, Mohamed Samura, Thaduba Turay, and all the HBCU students impacted by traffic fatalities this year.

A recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that U.S. traffic deaths fell 3.6% last year, although nearly 41,000 people were killed on the nation’s roadways. While the overall estimate of traffic deaths may have decreased, fatal accidents among students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities have increased significantly.

A 2021 study by the Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that Black Americans were disproportionately affected by traffic-related deaths—and that these disparities in fatalities were larger than previous estimates show.

Published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine in June 2022, the study found that travel distances vary among racial/ethnic groups when walking, cycling, or driving—and when these differences in activity levels are taken into account, Black Americans had the highest traffic fatality rate per mile traveled and across all modes, followed by Hispanics, Whites, and Asians. These disparities were particularly stark for walking, cycling, and evening hours.

Research in traffic fatalities among Black Americans found:

  • Black people were more than twice as likely, for each mile walked, to be struck and killed by a vehicle as white pedestrians. 
  • About one-third of all traffic-related fatalities involve drunk drivers.
  • From 2015-2019, Black Americans had the second-highest per capita rate of hit-and-run pedestrian deaths.
  • In 2020, Black people represented the largest increase in traffic deaths last year than any other racial group, even as Americans drove less overall due to the pandemic, according to recently released data.
  • Pedestrian and cyclist injuries tend to be concentrated in poorer neighborhoods that have a larger share of Black and Hispanic residents. These neighborhoods share a history of under-investment in basic traffic safety measures such as streetlights, crosswalks and sidewalks, and an over-investment in automobile infrastructure meant to speed through people who do not live there. 

Traffic fatalities are becoming increasingly prevalent among Black Americans in the United States. To improve road safety, we must provide equitable resources and safety measures to those disproportionately affected. This inequality is a serious issue that can have fatal, social, and traumatic consequences, which Black Americans often experience interchangeably.

Join us by raising awareness around Black Americans impacted by the traffic death epidemic by supporting the following solutions:

  • Enforce speed limits, and add trees to provide visual cues for drivers to slow down.
  • Implement traffic calming measures in Black communities to reduce speeding and aggressive driving.
  • Implement sobriety checkpoints in Black communities to deter and catch drunk drivers.
  • Increase police enforcement of traffic laws to deter reckless driving behavior and catch drunk drivers.
  • Improve infrastructure in Black neighborhoods to make roads safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Provide education and awareness campaigns on safe driving practices.
  • Promote public transportation options to reduce the number of cars on the road.
  • Address systemic issues such as racial profiling and discrimination in traffic stops to ensure fair treatment for Black drivers.
  • Invest in technology such as automated enforcement systems to improve road safety.

Other countries have shown that simple interventions can make a difference in reducing traffic fatalities. City planners need to acknowledge that pedestrians and cyclists should be able to move around safely in their own communities. Implementing measures such as traffic calming, bike lanes, and pedestrian crossings can help address the disproportionate impact of traffic accidents on Black Americans and create safer road environments for all.

Fisk University Seniors Call For Change Following Unexpected Commencement Modifications

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Several students from Fisk University‘s Class of 2024 (who wish to remain anonymous) are calling for change after the university made unexpected alterations to their upcoming commencement ceremony. Last week, on April 17th, Fisk reportedly notified the senior class that they had made changes to the ceremony, which is scheduled to be held on Monday, May 6th.

“On Wednesday, April 17th, 2024 Fisk University administration made the executive decision to change the 2024 location from the Grove (better known as the Fisk University Yard) on Monday, May 6th at 9:00 am to a local church at 8:30 am,” one email to HBCU BUZZ read.

According to one student who messaged via Instagram, the university also changed the number of tickets allotted per senior. “Initially graduating seniors were allotted four ticketed guests with overflow allowed to attend by bringing their own chairs (essentially an unlimited amount of guests were allowed). Now, students are being told only ticketed guests (total of eight) can attend.”

  • Screenshot messages sent via Instagram on April 18th, 2024.
    Screenshot messages sent via Instagram on April 18th, 2024.
  • Website Commencement Checklist
  • Original Fisk Commencement Invitation

The Class of 2024, who are also members of the COVID-19 high school class, were unable to have a physical graduation due to the pandemic in 2020. Fisk seniors tell us that “graduating on the Grove has not only been a dream, but an expectation since August of 2023.”

“We as the class of 2024 won’t get to immediately go to the oval as other classes have (a tradition of Fisk University) or get to graduate on our own campus,” another user wrote.

In a screenshot sent from another student, Fisk University reportedly explained that the changes were made due to the move to a larger facility, (The House of God Church in Nashville), which can accommodate up to 2300 people. As a result, each graduate would now receive eight tickets instead of the initial four.

“I acknowledge that some graduating seniors may feel disappointed by the change in venue for the ceremony, especially regarding concerns about the attendance of their loved ones,” the statement reads.

“Allow me to explain the rationale behind the decision to move the commencement to an indoor facility. Firstly, as we celebrate not only the silver class of 1999 and the gold class of 1974, providing a controlled climate becomes imperative for the comfort of all attendees, including your parents and grandparents. Secondly, ensuring that every guest has a seat eliminates the need for anyone to stand for extended periods during the ceremony. Lastly, by moving indoors, we mitigate the risk of having to relocate the commencement last minute due to inclement weather, as has happened in the past.”

Screenshot message sent via Instagram on April 18th, 2024.
Screenshot message sent via Instagram on April 18th, 2024.

Students and parents have expressed their concerns about the unexpected changes and how they will impact the seniors’ experience of graduating on campus, as well as their family members who may not be able to attend the ceremony.

“Flat out ignoring student concerns for a public image is said,” one user commented. “bring our HISTORIC celebration back to our HISTORICIALLY BLACK INSTITUTION!” another user wrote.

Despite Fisk reportedly making more changes since last week to help accommodate the venue and ticket alterations, such as “offering two additional tickets, organizing a reception for graduates on the grove, and allowing the church doors to remain open until it’s at max capacity,” seniors still feel as though their concerns were ignored and that they are being robbed of the traditional Fisk graduation experience.

“Having a celebration on the yard plus an additional move-out day is great, but we were still robbed of participating in traditions that other classes before us go to!”

Fisk seniors hope that this call for change will bring awareness to the negative impact that impromptu changes such as these have on graduates in the future.

“Our intention is not to bash Fisk or discourage any students from attending this amazing university, we just want to feel heard and hope this experience keeps this from happening to any other grads in the future,” a Fisk senior tells us.

We reached out to Fisk University for comment and are currently waiting to hear back.

Fisk University’s Graduation ceremony will take place on Monday, May 6th. Al Roker and Deborah Roberts will be the commencement speakers.

Livingstone College Receives Fourth Consecutive Anonymous $1 Million Donation

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Livingstone College is a private historically black Christian college in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Livingstone College is a private historically black Christian college in Salisbury, North Carolina.

Historically Black, Livingstone College in North Carolina, continues to benefit from anonymous donors. The school announced Wednesday that they received a $1 million anonymous donation, — the fourth consecutive anonymous donation of $1 million.

President Anthony J. Davis announced the donation last Friday, April 19 to members of the Salisbury-Rowan community and several of the college’s faculty and staff. Livingstone says that the donor has been a consistent and dedicated supporter of the college’s mission and vision.

Proceeds from this donation will be used to support a campus residence hall refurbishment project. This donation follows the college’s Innovation Lounge Grant award during the 2024 Retool Your School Program, which is sponsored by Home Depot.

Retool Your School is a multitiered project designed to provide grants to HBCU campuses to be used for campus improvement projects that promote sustainability and long-term benefits to the campus and students. That particular grant will allow Livingstone to enhance existing spaces on the campus where students can gather to collaborate. 

This announcement also comes less than three weeks before Livingstone College’s May graduation, which will feature its first cohort of graduates through the college’s MBA program.

Livingstone — a private historically Black college — provides business, liberal arts, STEAM, teacher education, and workforce development programs for students from all ethnic backgrounds. The college promotes lifelong learning and the development of students‘ potential for leadership and service to a global community through a Christian-based environment suitable for holistic learning.