The historically Black university enrolls about 8,500 undergraduate students and more than 1,700 graduate students. African Americans make up 93 percent of the undergraduate student body.
“As a higher education advocate, I am honored that the board of supervisors and search committee are confident in my ability to champion and lead the Southern University and A&M University College,” said Pierre.
Since 1990, Pierre has served in faculty and administrative roles at Southern University Law Center. Since 2016, he has been chancellor of the Southern University Law Center and was named interim executive vice president of the Southern University System in 2023.
“I am committed to advancing the university’s mission and fostering partnerships that will position our students, faculty, staff, administrators, and alumni to serve as transformational change agents.”
Before joining academia, from 1986 to 1990, Pierre served his country as a Judge Advocates General Corps Officer (JAG) for the United States Army. In addition, Pierre was involved in the Baton Rouge school desegregation case as co-counsel for the Baton Rouge Branch of the NAACP in Davis v. East Baton Rouge Parish School Board. He was also co-counsel in the landmark case of McWaters v. FEMA.
Pierre consistently inspires legal professionals and thought leaders around the globe. He has earned numerous awards for his leadership, innovative strategy, and tireless efforts within the legal and professional realm, including Educator of the Year from the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Top 10 Most Dominant HBCU Leaders from The HBCU Campaign Fund.
Hampton University, the Baton Rouge Bar Association, and the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus are just a few of the organizations that have honored Pierre throughout his career.
Also, his alma mater, Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law, has named him a Distinguished Alumni. Pierre has served as a contributing panelist during national discussions with the Peggy Browning Fund, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the National Pre-Law Summit, and more.
Pierre received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Southern University in 1980, a master’s degree in tax accounting from Texas Tech University in 1982, and a juris doctorate from Southern Methodist University School of Law in 1985.
EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. –- The Willie A. Deese College of Business and Economics at North Carolina A&T State University is the No. 1 business school among America’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), according to U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Graduate Colleges” rankings, released this Tuesday.
The Deese College has now appeared in the Top 100 for four consecutive years, coming in at a tie for No. 79 with the University of Detroit Mercy, a private, Roman Catholic campus. Clark Atlanta University (No. 93, tie) is the only other ranked HBCU. Howard, with which N.C. A&T was tied last year and is unranked this year.
Among North Carolina schools, A&T only trails Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University. The college is named after A&T alumnus Willie A. Deese, who served prominently as president of global manufacturing for the pharmaceutical giant, Merck. Now retired, Deese continues to play a prominent role at his alma mater.
“We’re delighted that our Deese College continues to factor so prominently nationally among graduate business schools,” said Lisa Owens-Jackson, Ph.D., interim dean of the Deese College. “Our ranking this year is an honest reflection of the quality of our MBA programs, the excellence of our students, and our graduates’ career placement success.”
A&T’s fast-growing master’s and doctoral programs in computer science moved into a tie for No. 163 nationally, up eight positions from last year. A&T ranks No. 7 nationally in graduation of African American master’s graduates in computer science and No. 1 among HBCUs.
Other nationally ranked A&T graduate programs remain in the same positions as last year, owing to multiple factors at U.S. News & World Report. The magazine encountered data issues with its Best Engineering Programs list and has postponed new rankings until that is resolved.
Ranked programs in rehabilitation counseling, biological sciences, earth sciences, and mathematics maintained their 2023 positions, as U.S. News has not published new rankings data for those disciplines. Master’s and doctoral rehabilitation counseling programs in the College of Education continue to be A&T’s most highly ranked graduate programs, coming in at No. 46 (tie) nationally.
With nearly 1,700 master’s and doctoral students, A&T continues to grow at the graduate student level. As America’s most affordable doctoral research university, it offers outstanding academic quality at an exceptional price and strong connections to industry. According to U.S. News’ most recent salary rankings, graduates earn the second-highest starting salaries of any campus in the University of North Carolina System.
About North Carolina A&T State University
North Carolina A&T State University is the nation’s largest historically Black university, as well as one of the top 25 “Most Innovative” universities in America (U.S. News & World Report, Best Colleges 2024).
North Carolina A&T is a land-grant, doctoral research university and a constituent member of the University of North Carolina System. A&T is widely recognized for its leadership in producing graduates in engineering, agriculture, and other STEM fields. The university was established in 1891 and is located in Greensboro, North Carolina.
The Council of Presidents of the NAIA has recently approved a policy that allows only those student-athletes to participate in women’s sports who were assigned the female gender at birth. This means that transgender athletes will no longer be able to compete in women’s sports. The new policy is expected to impact 22 HBCUs.
According to reports, the NAIA is the first national college governing body to issue such a mandate that requires athletes to compete based on their assigned birth sex. The Council of Presidents was surveyed in December 2023, which revealed widespread support for the move.
On Monday, April 8th, 2024, the council voted 25-0 to approve the policy.
🔥🚨Breaking News! The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics @NAIA Council of Presidents voted 25-0 to make history as the first national college governing body to officially ban men from women’s collegiate sports.https://t.co/pU6XKEbqkZ.
The NAIA’s Council of President’s chair, Amy Novak, who is also the president of St. Ambrose University, said that the task force had spent almost two years reviewing research and meeting with experts to understand the policy’s challenges before obtaining feedback from multiple membership groups.
“With this policy, the NAIA has made its best effort to allow for the inclusion of transgender athletes in any way which does not impact the competitive fairness of women’s sports.”
Amy Novak, NAIA Council of President’s Chair
Novak added that the NAIA has made its best effort to include transgender athletes in a way that does not impact women’s sports’ competitive fairness. The priority is to maintain the integrity of women’s athletics and give them equal opportunities to succeed.
“Our priority is to protect the integrity of women’s athletics and allow them equal opportunity to succeed,” she continued in the CBS Sports article.
NAIA is a national athletic governing body for 249 mostly small, private colleges that do not participate in NCAA competition. In 1953, the NAIA became the first collegiate athletics association to invite historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) into membership. Out of 105 designated HBCUs, 22 are members of the NAIA.
“We know there are a lot of different opinions out there,” NAIA president Jim Carr told CBS Sports.
“For us, we believed our first responsibility was to create fairness and competition in the NAIA. … We also think it aligns with the reasons Title IX was created. You’re allowed to have separate, but equal opportunities for women to compete.”
Jim Carr, NAIA President
The new policy of NAIA prohibits student-athletes who were assigned female but have started masculinizing hormone therapy to transition to women from participating in women’s sports. However, the policy allows all NAIA athletes no longer eligible for women’s competition to participate in men’s sports.
“It’s important to know that the male sports are open to anyone,” Carr told CBS Sports.
Participation by students in sports designated as male by the NAIA: All eligible NAIA student-athletes may participate in NAIA-sponsored male sports.
Participation by students in sports designated as female by the NAIA: Only NAIA student-athletes whose biological sex is female may participate in NAIA-sponsored female sports. They may participate under the following conditions:
A student who has not begun any masculinizing hormone therapy may participate without limitation. A student who has begun masculinizing hormone therapy may participate in:
All activities internal to the institution (do not include external competition), including workouts, practices, and team activities. Such participation is at the discretion of the NAIA member institution where the student is enrolled; and
External competition is not a countable contest as defined by the NAIA (per NAC Policy Article XXV, Section A, Item 12). Such participation is at the discretion of the NAIA member institution where the student is enrolled.
An NAIA institution that has a student-athlete who has begun masculinizing hormone therapy must notify the NAIA national office. The national office will take the necessary steps to provide appropriate privacy protections.
This policy will undergo periodic review to incorporate new legal, scientific, or medical developments.
Tuskegee University is pleased to announce that it has received a $20 million gift to support the University’s STEM programs and a variety of campus enhancements from an anonymous donor.
This is the second $20 million gift the university has received in less than four years. This donation will support a faculty leadership position, and an endowed scholarship, enhance on-campus student affairs and campus security staffing, develop STEM programs and applied research, and match our UNCF endowment fund.
“This gift will allow us to invest in our students, faculty, programs and infrastructure, enabling us to enhance our academic reputation, enrich the student experience, and continue our work to reach milestones within our strategic plan,” said Dr. Charlotte P. Morris, Tuskegee University president.
“It will provide additional resources for us to implement vital initiatives, further securing the campus, and fostering a more dynamic community.”
Tuskegee University, a land-grant historically Black university in Tuskegee, Alabama.
Enhancement of on-campus student affairs and campus security staffing
Development of STEM programs and applied research
Fulfill a UNCF pooled endowment fund match
“We are grateful for this extraordinary act of philanthropy, which will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on our university and its community,” said Dr. Morris. “This contribution is a testament to our collective efforts and the enduring trust inspired by the Tuskegee legacy.”
The HBCU student ambassadors of Beyond The Sheets pictured above. Photo Courtesy of Power To Decide
“It was an opportunity we were blessed with,” says Wishchell Joseph, a senior at Tuskegee University, recalling when he first learned about the opportunity to become an ambassador for Beyond The Sheets.
Tougaloo College junior, Rokiyah Hobbs says she knew from the moment she received the email that she would be “a great asset and ambassador.”
Jackeima Fleming, a senior at The University of The Virgin Islands, saw the golden opportunity as an indication to “roll up their sleeves” in bringing this initiative to HBCU campuses.
One email brought 10 students across five Historically Black Colleges and Universities together for one crucial purpose. And the objective was clear. There was a critical need for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education at HBCUs.
On December 1, 2023, Power to Decideannounced the launch of ‘Beyond the Sheets’, a national student-led initiative aimed to address the sexual and reproductive health needs of students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Power to Decide is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that works to advance sexual and reproductive well-being for all by providing trusted information, expanding access to quality services, and catalyzing culture change.
The December 1 launch date coincided with World AIDS Day, — an international day dedicated to raising awareness of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and honoring those who have passed from the disease.
“The vast majority of HBCUs are located in southern states, which accounts for more than half of all new HIV diagnoses in the United States,” said Power to Decide Senior Director of Health Equity, JeNeen Anderson.
“These states often have stringent laws that limit access to sex education, contraception and abortion and will greatly impact HBCU students’ reproductive well-being and sexual health. This highlights the importance of Power to Decide HBCU Student Ambassadors, as they will share valuable information and resources on campuses and social media to advance the reproductive well-being of their communities.”
Students from across five HBCUs were chosen to lead this initiative based on their demonstrated ability to inspire and shape the culture of how their peers receive, digest, and engage in sexual and reproductive health conversations.
Since the initiative’s launch, the HBCU student ambassadors have focused their efforts on several key activities, including boosting social media engagement related to sexual health, addressing reproductive well-being, and implementing on-the-ground activation efforts on HBCU campuses.
“Addressing sexual and reproductive health needs on our campuses is paramount,” says Jalah Bates, a senior at Xavier University of Louisiana.
“It’s imperative to recognize the unique challenges faced by young Black individuals, including limited access to comprehensive sexual education, health disparities, and societal stigmas surrounding reproductive health.”
As Director Anderson emphasizes, most Historically Black Colleges and Universities are located in southern states with many students lacking access to sexual and reproductive health care and living in contraceptive and maternity care deserts. Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) — most of which arose after the Civil War to provide opportunities for higher learning to black students — are an integral aspect of the educational landscape in the South.
Power to Decide HBCU Student Ambassadors are positioned to fill the sexual and reproductive health care gap in their community by providing their peers with the information and resources they need to take control of their reproductive and sexual health care.
For Mya Bledsoe, also a senior at Xavier University, the initiative is a reminder that HBCU communities “deserve multifaceted measures to enhance access to education and reproductive well-being.”
Haileigh Trainer, a junior at Tuskegee University, echoes widening the gap where sexual education on HBCU campuses is concerned.
“Multifaceted initiatives such as comprehensive sexual education programs, ensuring accessible and culturally competent healthcare services, and addressing the stigma and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS is crucial to closing the disparity gap on our campuses.”
In an urgent bid to combat such sexual and reproductive health disparities, HBCUs like Xavier, FAMU, Tuskegee, Tougaloo, and The University of the Virgin Islands have already begun leading the effort by offering STD/HIV testing on campus, organizing panel discussions on sexual education and health, organizing initiatives centered on reproductive health, and a host of other commendable seminars and activities.
“At UVI, the school has installed condom dispensers all around the campus to make accessing contraceptives easier. Also, we’re now required to take a 30-minute course about sexual assault and sexual safety every semester before moving on campus,” — Kurvonte Richards-Willent, a student UVI.
The Beyond The Sheets initiative is not only an addition to these efforts but also substantiates the reality that there can never be too many solutions to addressing sexual health disparities in HBCU communities.
“The repercussions of our judgments are frequently the result of a lack of knowledge,” said Jalah and Mya from Xavier University. “We want to start a movement of freedom for our peers to ask questions, learn about contraception, and get the help they need to be their healthiest selves.”
“We are extremely excited to have students from five HBCU campuses using the power of their voice and the power of social media to give other students access to the information and resources they need to make informed sexual and reproductive health decisions.”
Bedsider, a program of Power to Decide, allows individuals to explore the full range of birth control options, browse sexual health FAQs, and find a healthcare clinic near them so they can take control of their reproductive well-being.
Nayla McClure and Rokiyah Hobbs from Tougaloo say they hope to ‘spark widespread conversation and lasting change.’ “I believe the initiative has the power to greatly influence the students on HBCU campuses and how we can use our collective power.”
University of Virgin Islands students Kurvonte Richards-Willet and Jackeima Fleming hope to ‘impact a younger generation’ on the taboo stigma around sex and ‘advocate for policy changes’ where it matters the most in our communities.
“When it comes to creating change,” Fleming states, — “there is no time to sit on the sidelines — it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work.”
Six members of the 1950s Tennessee State University basketball program, along with Vice President and HBCU graduate Kamala Harris, met in the Roosevelt Room at the White House last Friday.
The program was led by Basketball Hall of Fame John McLendon, who helped the program win the NAIA championship less than five years after black colleges were first allowed to participate in the tournament.
During the meeting, George Finley, Henry Carlton, Robert Clark, Ron Hamilton, Ernie Jones, and Dick Barnett shared their stories with Vice President Harris.
Barnett was the team’s star player who’d go on to be drafted into the NBA in 1959 and became an NBA All-Star and two-time champion with the New York Knicks. The 87-year-old was recently elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame and will be enshrined in the hall this fall.
The 1957 Tennessee A&I Tigers Men’s basketball championship team visits the White House 65 years after winning their titles! On Friday,VP Kamala Harris highlighted their historic feat. TSU was the 1st HBCU team to win a national championship. Read more in https://t.co/BiN8iGyixI. pic.twitter.com/NSHFTQxC0C
— Tennessee State University (@TSUedu) April 6, 2024
“I thought this would never take place,” said Finley, who was part of the 1959 championship team. “[Winning] the championship was big, but it wasn’t as big as being here with [Vice President] Harris today.”
Vice President Harris, a graduate of Howard University, praised the men for their willingness to tell their stories and emphasized the importance of remembering history to guide progress. She also expressed her admiration for the team’s accomplishments, calling them an inspiration to future generations.
Throughout her stint as Vice President, Harris has been a vocal supporter of HBCUs, making appearances at the NCAA Tournament and Celebration Bowl during Howard appearances and recently calling Grambling State after its NCAA Tournament win.
Dawn Staley’s squad has achieved an unparalleled level of dominance in women’s basketball. The unbeaten team has proven to overcome every obstacle in its path.
The Gamecocks have won an astounding 109 games and lost just three in three seasons. Their latest victory at the NCAA national championships in Cleveland, Ohio was a testament to the indomitable spirit and hard work that defines this team.
This third national title under Staley’s leadership inspires all aspiring athletes and coaches and cements her as one of the greatest coaches in women’s college basketball history.
“…it’s a heavy load to be undefeated, to finish the job.”
The magnitude of the moment seemed to dawn on Staley as the confetti rained down on her team after another successful season, breaking down in tears as her championship-winning squad celebrated reaching the mountain top yet again.
Staley celebrates winning her third national title. – Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
Moreover, on and off the court, Staley has been a consistent advocate for others, including HBCUs. As we celebrate Dawn Staley’s historic championship win, we take a look back on 5 times Staley stepped for HBCUs.
Coach Staley On Playing HBCU Teams
In December 2023, while speaking at a postgame news conference after South Carolina’s 104-38 victory at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, Staley discussed why she regularly schedules teams from the MEAC, a smaller Division I conference made up of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. For Staley, the reasons were deeply personal, based on her history and previous coaching experience.
“When I was at Temple, we couldn’t get a top team to play us besides Rutgers and Tennessee,” Staley said. “Those were the only two coaches who really gave us an opportunity. It hurt them more than it hurt us. We were an up-and-coming program. We could challenge you. We could challenge the top teams in the country. It didn’t make sense for them, so a lot of them said ‘No.’
.@dawnstaley on why she continues to schedule MEAC teams:
"When I was at Temple, we couldn't get a top team to play us besides Rutgers and Tennessee… I'll always remember what Coach Vivian Stringer and Coach Pat Summitt did for us"@GamecockWBB@wachfoxpic.twitter.com/i3V1o72wyN
“But I’ll always remember what coach Vivian Stringer and coach Pat Summitt did for us and giving us an opportunity to measure ourselves against some of the best, most legendary coaches. It allowed me to grow as a coach. It allowed our program to grow at Temple University. It’s scary, too. I always try to schedule people who are elevating or trying to elevate their program and move their program in the right direction.”
Coach Staley On Jackson State Women’s Basketball Team
Jackson State’s success gained national attention earlier this year after the team earned a vote in the most recent Associated Press Top 25 women’s basketball poll for the first time in program history.
In addition to drawing the attention of at least one pollster, the on-court exploits of the team have earned it at least one very notable supporter. Dawn Staley, the head coach of the undefeated and No.1 ranked South Carolina Gamecocks, took time to acknowledge the Tigers.
Coach Staley replied to a post on X from JSU head coach Tomekia Reed that celebrated the Tigers’ first-ever AP vote, writing, “You’d have another vote if I was a voter! Keep doing the BELIEVABLE!”
You’d have another one if I was a voter! Keep doing the BELIEVABLE!
The basketball icon had some kind words to say about one of her former South Carolina students, Olivia Gaines, taking over as head coach at Allen University. “Olivia Gaines has built a resume that would allow her to coach anywhere in the country,” Staley said when asked about her protegeé.
“Her choice to come back to South Carolina and Allen University makes this a special union. I’m excited to see her back in Columbia, and I can’t wait to see her program thrive.”
Coach Stanley On Supporting Women’s HBCU Basketball
Norfolk State head coach Larry Vickers Jr. talked about meeting Staley for himself as the two teams had dinner the night before their NCAA Tournament game. Dawn Staley came into the Norfolk State locker room following the game to talk to the team and was very complimentary of the team.
“I didn’t understand the magnitude around her before I really personally met her. Then you’re like, Oh, OK I see why you’re the figurehead for women’s basketball. She does an excellent job, makes everybody feel loved and comfortable,” Vickers said during MEAC media day. “ They took us to Ruth’s Chris. South Carolina paid for our meal the night before.”
The meal at the swanky steakhouse cost a pretty penny, but Staley took care of the bill.
Coach Staley On Visually Representing HBCUs
During last year’s March Madness, Coach Dawn Staley wasn’t sporting garnet and black on the sideline of the Gamecocks’ second-round March Madness game against South Florida. Instead, she donned a white and blue No. 44 Cheyney University jersey.
Cheyney, the nation’s oldest HBCU, is located roughly 30 miles from Staley’s hometown of Philadelphia. Its women’s basketball team became the first — and only — HBCU to reach the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament in 1982, ultimately falling to Louisiana Tech in the national championship game.
“For them to be led by Coach Stringer, who opened doors that now I walk through, it was truly an honor to wear this jersey and to represent them,” Staley said.
Alabama A&M University President Dr. Daniel K. Wims and Director of Athletics Dr. Paul A. Bryant introduced Dawn Thornton on Saturday as the fifth head women’s basketball coach since joining the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and joining NCAA Division I.
The announcement comes weeks after Director Bryant announced former head coach Margaret Richards stepped down to pursue other opportunities.
Thornton comes to Alabama A&M after spending the past five seasons as the head coach at SWAC institution Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
Welcome to THE HILL, @DivaCoachUAPB! It’s time to update that X handle. 👀#ProtectTheHill
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Dawn Thornton to the Alabama A&M University family as our new head women’s basketball coach,” Bryant said.
“Coach Thornton’s remarkable record of success, both within the SWAC and against formidable out-of-conference opponents, speaks volumes about her prowess and strategic acumen in the realm of collegiate basketball. Her leadership qualities, combined with a deep understanding of the game, make her the ideal candidate to elevate our program.
“We are eagerly anticipating the energy, expertise, and excellence she will bring to our team, and we are confident that under her guidance, A&M women’s basketball will achieve new heights of success. The future is bright for our program with Coach Thornton at the helm.”
Thornton, who has experience at the NCAA Division I and Division II level as a head women’s basketball coach, has compiled a 102-159 overall record in nine seasons at Prairie View A&M, Shorter, and Arkansas-Pine Bluff. In addition, she led the Golden Lions to a signature victory over Arkansas this past season, a first in program history.
Emmani Raynes, a 20-year-old student at North Carolina A&T University, is currently recovering from injuries sustained in a hit-and-run incident over the weekend.
Last Friday, March 29th, a Black Nissan Altima drove through a crowd of people on South Eugene Street in Greensboro, North Carolina. The event where the incident occurred was not the official annual Aggie Fest as previously advertised, according to NCAT officials.
“I’m in a lot of pain, but I’m thankful to be alive,” she says.
Emmani tells us that she and her friends were leaving the event when they heard screaming. She says seconds later she saw a group of people running in her direction. “As I’m running onto the sidewalk, a vehicle comes behind me, scoops me up and I slide and hit my head on the pavement, face first,” she tells us.
A viral video has also circulated online showing the Black Nissan hitting multiple people before speeding off down the street.
Greensboro police say at least six people were taken to the hospital Friday night after the incident. Jacob another NCAT student who attended the event, told FOX8 WGHP, that the incident was reportedly sparked by a fight between two or more women.
“I believe two or more girls started fighting or whatever and a dude threw a charger at the police officer to get the police officer off of the girl…he threw the charger and the cop said ‘I am about to mace’ and everybody started running,” he said. Jacob, who wished to remain anonymous, was just one of hundreds of students at the event. He shared that he had to jump out of the way to avoid getting hit.
South Eugene Street, Greensboro, NC.
According to Emmani, the sizeable gathering can be attributed to the cancellation of a party that was later merged with the party where the incident occurred. According to Jacob, at least a thousand students began running across South Eugene Street, near the junction with Whittington Street.
“You heard him slam on the gas and rev his engine up and then all of a sudden you just see the car come flying past and just hit 10-15 people…I was standing right there and it was something you don’t believe because you don’t see it on a daily, like a day-to-day, it threw me for a loop and I was like did that really just happen,” Jacob said.
Emmani sustained multiple injuries including a head, hip, and knee injury, a chipped tooth, shoulder scarring, and a laceration on her left eyebrow.
The Aggie Fest has had a history of safety issues in recent years, with an increase in crime-related incidents each year, as noted in an op-ed from the NCAT Register in 2018.
“Many older Aggies remember Aggie Fest being as big as homecoming, turning out huge crowds of students, students from other HBCUs, and even locals,” Zila Sanchez, editor-in-chief of the NCAT Register wrote at the time.
“It started around 1980, and by 1985, it had become the premiere college spring event.”
But Sanchez wrote that as the years went by, the Aggie Fest became “overshadowed by the glory of what it used to be.”
“Unfortunately, the event grew too fast and caused many issues,” she said. As quickly as it rose to fame, it was shut down after four people were shot by non-students in 1990.”
“It was successfully brought back in 1991 as the “Spring Spectacular,” but was shut down again in 1992 after a riot erupted, where 300 to 500 people blocked traffic, jumped on cars, and threw rocks and bottles. These violent eruptions tarnished the reputation of Aggie Fest and forced the school to rethink hosting such large social events.”
We spoke with officials from North Carolina A&T, who confirmed that the March 29th event was not a part of the Aggie Fest – the university’s official annual week of student events. Instead, NCAT says that the incident happened at an unaffiliated, unsanctioned party organized by several promoters. The party was “moved several times” before finally being held at a location 2.5 miles from the campus, a location that was “not equipped to handle such a large crowd.”
“Aggie Fest draws thousands of student and community celebrants, so private party promoters often organize their own events to take advantage of the large numbers of young people in and around Greensboro who are looking for additional entertainment options,” NCAT officials said.
“They sometimes co-opt the A&T brand marks and imagery without university permission to create an impression of linkage to A&T. That is a very difficult dynamic to stop, as the promoters are difficult to find and contact to receive cease-and-desist communication.”
NCAT officials say they “routinely discourage students from attending the private events,” for safety reasons. “In a video distributed widely to A&T students before and during Aggie Fest, our chief of police warned them to “avoid unsanctioned events, as they often lack appropriate security measures.” As in the case at the March 29th event.
Greensboro police confirm that the car left the scene and the department has not released any information about any possible suspects or arrests.
Emmani expressed her hopes to receive an apology from the driver. She also hopes that this unfortunate incident will help raise awareness about the importance of creating and maintaining secure spaces for students and the Greensboro community.
Authorities have asked that anyone with information about this incident please contact Greensboro/Guilford Crime Stoppers at (336) 373-1000. All tips to Crime Stoppers are completely anonymous.
*This story is developing and will be updated when more information becomes available.
The University is doing so because of the incredible interest there is at both the collegiate and global level for women’s flag football, explained ASU President, Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr.
The @BamaStateSports Family is growing with the addition of Women's Flag Football!
— Bama State Athletics (@BamaStateSports) April 2, 2024
“The International Olympic Committee recently included men’s and women’s flag football in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games and likewise, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is closely monitoring the emerging sport of women’s flag football,” said President Ross.
“Adding this program to our institution allows Alabama State University to align its sports offerings to the global standard and the future of an emerging sport. The addition of women’s flag football will provide both current and incoming students a valuable opportunity to further their education while participating on the gridiron.”
BACKGROUND ON WOMEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL According to the National Football League (NFL), flag football’s official numbers concerning student participation by women, ages 6 to 12 years, have increased by 38 percent since 2015. In the U.S., approximately 474,000 young women played flag football last year; an increase of more than 60 percent from 2019. Over 85 high schools in Alabama alone have initiated flag football in their athletic programs and they held its first state championship in December of last year.
ASU ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT AT THE FOREFRONT OF EXPANSION The University’s athletic director, Dr. Jason Cable, shared that he and the Hornet Nation’s athletic program is proud to be adding women’s flag football to its intercollegiate athletics sports offerings.
“We look forward to doing our part at The Alabama State University to assist in growing the sport locally and regionally. We can’t wait to see the impact of women’s flag football as one of our sports offerings for the Hornet Nation’s student-athletes,” Cable commented.
“We’re enthusiastic that Alabama State University is breaking new ground by launching a highly competitive women’s flag football program. The University recognizes the immense interest in women’s flag football at the collegiate level and is proud to offer its students a valuable opportunity to excel in the sport.”
GOOD FOR BODY AND MIND Cable believes that increasing participation in flag football by young women promotes healthy living and valuable life skills for those playing the game. “Flag football is a fantastic way for young women to develop their social skills, as well as their athletic abilities, while also encouraging exercise and physical fitness,” stated Cable.
“The University is proud to be the first Division 1 Historically Black College and Universities (HBCUs) school to offer a women’s flag football program.”
The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning named Dr. Tracy M. Cook the twenty-first president of Alcorn State University in Mississippi. He has served as interim president for the past eight months.
Alcorn State University is a historically Black educational institution that enrolls about 2,500 undergraduate and 500 graduate students. Some 95 percent of the undergraduate student body identifies as Black or African American.
The appointment comes nearly a year after the Board of Trustees announced the departure of Alcorn State’s 20th and first woman President, Dr. Felecia Nave, who had served since 2019. The statement did not indicate whether Dr. Nave chose to leave or was asked to leave. Her contract was set to expire June 30.
Dr. Cook’s administrative tenure with Alcorn State University began in 2015 as chief of staff. In 2018, he was appointed interim vice president for student affairs. One year later, he was promoted to vice president for student affairs and enrollment management, a position he held until his elevation to interim president in July 2023.
Before joining the staff at Alcorn State University, Dr. Cook served in various roles, including superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal, athletic director, and teacher in the Jefferson and Claiborne County Schools.
“I am honored to have the trust and support of the board of trustees, and excited to officially lead a university that has meant so much to me personally and professionally,” Dr. Cook said. “We have a bright future ahead of us and I am committed to leading us all toward new levels of success.”
Dr. Cook holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics and a master’s degree in agronomy and educational administration and supervision from Alcorn State University. He earned a doctorate in educational leadership from William Carey University in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
The First Bank has donated $1 million to 12 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to support their economic and community development endeavors.
We’re proud to announce that we recently donated $1 million to 12 historically Black colleges and universities across Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. For more information about the donation and its specific recipients: https://t.co/osQrZx2eyJ#HBCU#Donationpic.twitter.com/dRFnW2WWPK
The schools receiving funding are Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, Southern University and A&M College, Southern University at New Orleans, Dillard University, Xavier University of Louisiana, Bishop State Community College, Albany State University, Savannah State University, Clayton State University, Florida A&M University, and Edward Waters University.
“Historically Black colleges and universities date back to the late 1800s and were created to provide Black students an opportunity for higher education,” said Jerome Brown, Chief Community Officer for The First Bank. “Today, they continue to serve higher education and a broad range of economic and community development purposes. The First Bank has many HBCUs in its footprint of operation and understands the role we play to help the schools’ efforts for educational achievement.”
As one of the nation’s largest certified Community Development Financial Institutions, The First Bank has awarded over $70 million in community investments to support economic growth and job creation since 2010. In the last year alone, the bank has donated over $1.6 million to deserving charities including schools, children’s homes, food banks, hospitals, and local housing initiatives.
“Our bank believes in supporting its markets by investing in communities, providing financial education, and generating access to credit,” said Hoppy Cole, President and Chief Executive Officer of The First Bank. “Education is key to forming these three fundamental building blocks, which is why we believe so strongly in the mission of these universities and want to support the great work they are doing in their colleges of business and small business development centers to educate our future business leaders.”
With over 1,000 team members and 116 locations throughout a five-state region, The First Bank is a key financial partner and supporter for many communities throughout the Southeast. In 2023, bank team members donated over 3,500 volunteer hours to more than 700 organizations including delivering financial education to over 52,000 community members and students.
On March 23rd, Langston University men’s basketball team fell short of their quest to become the first historically Black college to win a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national championship since 1977, losing to Freed-Hardeman University (71-67) at the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Missouri.
The Lions (35-2) did not achieve the desired outcome in their first NAIA championship appearance. However, for Oklahoma’s only HBCU, it marked the turnaround Coach Chris Wright had envisioned when he assumed leadership of the program in 2022.
And for Langston University, their journey is much bigger than a championship.
“Langston is a special place. It’s a place where I know that we can win and win big every single year,” Wright said after the game. “That’s the expectation, and so this is not our last deep run [in the NAIA tournament] here.”
Langston’s presence in the NAIA championship game was the second time in three years that an HBCU reached the national title game. The other program, Talladega College, was also under Wright’s coaching.
Before joining Langston, Wright had just completed three consecutive NAIA tournament appearances, including a runner-up finish in 2022. Langston had only one win in two seasons before his arrival, with a 1-37 record from 2020-21 to 2021-22.
Athletic Director Donnita Drain-Rogers interviewed several coaching candidates who proposed a multi-year process to revamp the Lions’ program. However, Wright’s steadfast commitment to immediate success and unwavering goal of winning convinced her.
“He’s got great players, but Coach Wright is just phenomenal with building a culture, and it has been amazing to sit there as athletic director and just see how he’s created this masterpiece in two years,” Drain-Rogers said.
“The support has grown for the men’s basketball [team], [and we’re] getting good [attendance] numbers for regular-season games. Our fans are traveling well. We have a lot of people that believed in them.”
Wright characterizes his coaching philosophy as emphasizing tough, consistent, and disciplined basketball with a focus on defense. His recruitment strategy targets players with experience at higher levels, emphasizing offensive skills and defensive training.
“We just feel like being at this level for a lot of years, we kind of have a blueprint that’s made [us] successful,” Wright said. “We knew that we could get talented guys in here and flip the program.”
Langston’s transformation from one win to 31 in a single season (from 2021-22 to 2022-23) ranks among the most significant turnarounds in collegiate basketball, aligning Langston with Gannon University, renowned for its 29-win season and inclusion in the NCAA record book for the largest one-year improvement.
Despite facing challenges such as injuries, personal losses, and family health issues over the past two seasons, Wright and his team have demonstrated resilience in response to adversity.
“Our program really is built on love. Sometimes it’s tough love,” Wright said. “As a coach, you get what you tolerate. But just demanding excellence out of everyone in our program every single day, it’s not always fun, but we are a tight-knit family. We do this together. And I think that’s been the difference for us.
“Just how unselfish these guys are, how much they love each other, how much they care about each other. I think that stretches far beyond the basketball court.”
After the recent tournament defeat, Wright reminded his players of their ability to overcome challenges, reflecting on their journey.
With two NAIA tournament appearances, two conference tournament championships, and a national title runner-up finish under Wright’s leadership, Drain-Rogers believes he has realized his vision of leading a successful program.
“I feel like the sky’s the limit for Coach Wright. I hope that he will be coaching Langston basketball for years to come,” Drain-Rogers said. “I’ve been in this business a long time. I personally feel like he’s one of the best coaches in the nation. So, it may be very difficult to keep him, but I feel like he’s forever changed men’s basketball, and basketball period, at Langston University.”
Proof that you can take over a program in year #1, and win! Most don't have the mindset to do so, so it doesn't happen. You must believe that it's possible & believe that you will do it. If you buy into rebuild years that include not winning OR believe it will take time, it will. pic.twitter.com/8judcy3FYj
— Lewis Shine | Graphic Designer (@LewisShine) March 27, 2024
Several players from this year’s championship team will return next season, including conference player of the yearAnthony Roy, and Wright believes there is more success in store for the program.
“That’s our goal every single season, to put ourselves in a position to compete for a national championship,” Wright said. “We know how hard that is to duplicate that, but I know that I’ve committed to doing everything in my power the next 364 days to try to put us in the best situation possible to get back here and to win it.”
Throughout Langston’s NAIA tournament run, the outpouring of support from HBCU coaches, alumni, and social media has been significant, boosting morale within the program.
“Our players take a lot of pride in being able to represent HBCUs across the country on the stage and this platform,” Wright said. “It’s extremely hard I think for anybody to get here, but when you’re at an HBCU, it really is an uphill battle…”It’s really cool to see the respect that we’ve gotten from so many people across the country.”
Last week it was announced that a jury found that historically Black, Harris-Stowe State University in Missouri discriminated against a white woman professor based on her race and gender. As a result, the university was hit with a judgment to pay Beverly Buck Brennan $750,000 for what the lawsuit alleged was “a racially hostile work environment at the St. Louis-based HBCU,” the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.
Beverly Buck Brennan, the professor who accused the HBCU of racial discrimination recently spoke to First Alert 4 exclusively in a sit-down interview.
“I loved my students. And I loved the potential that they had, and their commitment to really making a better life. And like me wanting to have fun while learning,” she said.
But she told First Alert 4 that around 2010 things started to change. “When I say changing, I’m talking about a revolving door, and at that point, things started changing for me. And I started experiencing a very hostile work environment,” she said.
In 2016, she sued Harris-Stowe, claiming age, gender, and racial discrimination.
“I had seen not just myself but many people treated in a way that I did not think was fair. And I’ve never sued anyone in my life. And I hope to never do it again. But I thought maybe by taking this action, it would inspire or urge some change at the institution,” she said.
Though Harris-Stowe denied her claims, after years of litigation in St. Louis City courts, a jury found she had faced a hostile work environment and awarded her $750,000. The verdict was handed down last week.
“I was pleased. Justice was done. The court did the right thing. Jury did the right thing,” said Thomas Sanfilippo.
Brennan’s attorney, Thomas Sanfilippo, said that despite being part of a famous family, Brennan’s case highlights that anyone can be discriminated against.
“They can be discriminated against on the basis of their race, gender, sexual orientation, skin color, genetic background, genetic information, disability. There’s all kinds of things protected by the Missouri Human Rights Act,” Sanfilippo said.
He said Beverly endured attacks by opposing counsel, attempting to discredit her by calling her a liar and a racist.
“Probably the two top things in my life I would never want to be,” she said.
Though his passion and work ethic were the greatest gifts he gave her, she told First Alert 4. They were part of the reason why she says she felt she had to stand up for herself.
“I think I would have felt worse doing nothing,” she said.
Brennan said she wants to give a portion of the jury’s award right back to the school to pay for a production of a musical in the theater.
Harris-Stowe is still entitled to appeal the decision. HBCU Buzz reached out to Harris-Stowe State University but has received no response as of yet.
It’s been just a month since Forbes announced it’s 13th annual Under 30 List for the Class of 2024. The list honors young trailblazers across North America, within 20 different industries including: art, media, entertainment, education, healthcare, sports, music, finance, food and drink, social impact, marketing and advertising, games, etc.
“This is one of the most diverse and ambitious Under 30 classes to date,” says Kristin Stoller, Senior Editor, Forbes 30 Under 30.
Among the Under 30 2024 honorees are Black HBCU alum, many of whom are creating meaningful change through their entrepreneurship and innovation.
Sisters and cofounders, Nia Faith Betty & Justice Faith Berry via Forbes.
Sisters Justice Faith Betty and Nia Faith Betty, founded Révolutionnaire, a dancewear line for dancers of color. Their Roots collaborations sold out of stores across Canada, the U.S., and Taiwan, and their collaboration with L’Oréal’s Essie line was distributed in 1,200 storefronts. Nia Faith Berry is a Howard University Alum.
After seeing how many warning labels and chemicals were listed on the products at her local beauty store in West Philadelphia, Kadidja Dosso decided to start her own organic beauty company. She now sells hypoallergenic hair extensions and other haircare products for Black women who have sensitive skin. Her products are sold at salons, as well as online at GoPuff, Macy’s and Amazon.
While doing his doctoral work at Stanford, he developed a design tool used by over 10,000 aerospace engineering professionals, including NASA and Airbus. His new lab explores the interaction between aircraft and the environment to make more sustainable designs.
Nialah Wilson-Small creates coordination algorithms for human-drone interactions using touch. Touch has the potential to expand robots’ use as assistive devices. Her research looks to apply it in situations like search and rescue, emergency evacuation situations, and workplace human-drone collaboration.
Aiyana Ishmael is an associate editor at “Teen Vogue,” where she covers the culture of fashion and how it affects marginalized communities. She’s best known for her column, “CTRL+C,” which analyzes the dearth of size-inclusivity within the retail industry.
The series has garnered attention from celebrities like Bella Hadid and Zendaya, and resulted in features on CBS and NPR. Since joining “Teen Vogue” in 2021, she’s published over 150 stories, with a social media following of more than 40,000 across Instagram, TikTok and Twitter.
Artist Armani White is one of the buzziest names in hip-hop. His 2022 breakout hit “Billie Eilish” was certified gold with more than half-a-billion streams and 36 million YouTube views. Tapped as BET’s Amplified Artist and MTV’s Push Artist for January and February of 2023, he continues to dominate social platforms and airwaves with hits such as “Silver Tooth” featuring A$AP Ferg, “Goated” featuring Denzel Curry, and “Baazigar” with Indian rapper Divine.
A vice president at HarbourView Equity Partners, an investment firm focused on the media and entertainment industry, Butler has helped source over 400 media opportunities resulting in more than 40 acquisitions within two years. Butler holds a board position for NFT marketplace Mueshi. She is also a member of the Young Leaders Circle of the Milken Institute think tank.
Meyers is a growth equity investor at Goldman Sachs, leading the effort for the firm’s One Million Black Women initiative, a $10 billion investment commitment to narrow opportunity gaps for at least one million Black women (through investments in areas like affordable housing, job creation, education and access to capital) by 2030.
Meyers’ daily responsibilities range from sourcing to underwriting to portfolio management, where she currently leads a portfolio of six companies spanning several key pillars, including healthcare, education and financial health.
Cofounders, Jackson Block and Tiana Tukes via Forbes.
Jackson Block and Tiana Tukes cofounded LGBT+ VC, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing LGBTQ prosperity through venture capital. LGBT+ VC has helped educate over 1,000 limited partners, venture capitalists, family offices and startup founders since its launch, with hopes of reaching 10x that by 2030. Tukes is a Morehouse College alum.
Justin Shaifer is forming the ESPN for STEM. Fascinate Media creates quality educational STEM content by leveraging media to help millions of underrepresented students. Fascinate Media has also helped students embrace STEM and equip hundreds of thousands of teachers for a tech-driven future. Recognized as a diversity leader at the World Science TV Congress, Shaifer has given over 150 talks, reaching over 250,000 students and educators. His TEDx talk, “How to Speak Gen Z,” boasts over 400,000 views.
Congratulations to the Black HBCU Alum Honorees! To see the full ‘Under 30’ 2024 Class, please visit Forbes.
HBCU’s first openly gay football player, Byron Perkins has announced his plans to enter the 2024 NFL Draft. The Hampton University Pirates defensive back released a statement this past Saturday via Instagram.
In the post, Perkins thanked his family, friends, and football staff for their support during his time at Hampton University.
“I would like to thank my family, friends, and coaches for all the love and support that has been given to me over the years,” Perkins said. “Since I was a child, I have had aspirations of being elite. Not just an elite player, but an elite person.”
Perkins is also the first openly gay HBCU football player to declare for the draft. In October 2022, Perkins became the first HBCU football player to publicly come out as gay. He said the decision meant him “no longer running away from himself.”
“I’m gay, let it be known that this is not a ‘decision’ or a ‘choice.’ Yes, this is who I am, this is who I’ve been, and this is who I’m going to be. Simply put, I am who I am.” Perkins said in statement.
More college and professional football players have opened shared their sexuality in recent years after University of Missouri’s Michael Sam publicly came out in February 2014. As of now, Sam and Perkins remain the only two Black football players to do so thus far. Perkins said in an interview with Outsports, that he hopes his openness will lend assistance to other Black men at HBCUs.
“Especially at an HBCU, young Black gay men need an outlet,” he said. “They need a support system. There hasn’t been an out gay football athlete at an HBCU. I want to end the stigma of what people think. I want people to know they can be themselves.
“It’s about that kid who’s going to see this and think he can be himself too.”
The 2024 89th NFL Draft will take place April 25th – April 27th in Detroit, Michigan.
