USDA to Provide $33M for Agriculture Projects at 19 HBCU Land-Grant Institutions

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is supporting agricultural research and education projects at HBCU land-grant institutions through generous funding of $33 million.  Learn more in the story by Ariana Figueroa at Kentucky Lantern.

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture is supporting agricultural research and education projects at HBCU land-grant institutions through generous funding of $33 million.  Learn more in the story by Ariana Figueroa at Kentucky Lantern.

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture Monday announced $33 million in funding to 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities designated as land-grant institutions to support research and education projects.

The funding through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture will support 82 projects in sustainable farming practices such as reducing use of plastics, enhancing nutritional value in vegetables and addressing shortages in sunflower seed oil.

“The work these universities will take on as a result of this funding have ripple effects far beyond the walls of their laboratories and classrooms,” Agriculture Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small said in a statement.

Torres Small said the investments will help “deliver real-life, applicable solutions to make our food system stronger, while at the same time inspiring a next generation of students and scientists who will help us meet tomorrow’s agricultural challenges.”

1890 Land-Grant Institutions are a byproduct of a Civil War-era law that gave land to dozens of universities, including the HBCUs, but the land had been forcibly taken from Indigenous tribes. In total, nearly 11 million acres were taken from more than 250 tribes, according to a project published in High Country News.

“USDA looks forward to the impact these visionary projects will have in improving the supply of affordable, safe, nutritious and accessible food and agricultural products, while fostering economic development and rural prosperity in America,” NIFA Director Manjit K. Misra said in a statement.

Many of the projects are geared toward sustainable practices in farming. U.S. agriculture contributes to about 11.2% of greenhouse gas emissions, and the Biden administration has focused on “climate smart” farming practices.

One project at North Carolina A&T State University was awarded about $250,000 to conduct farm trials of biodegradable mulches, which would be an alternative to plastic mulch.

Another land-grant university in Wilberforce, Ohio, the Central State University, was awarded about $500,000 to explore the use of a perennial flower — meaning it comes back year after year — as a way to improve honey production in order to enhance sustainability practices in agriculture.

And in Nashville, a project at Tennessee State University was awarded $100,000 to evaluate climate resiliency in legume species, which are crops such as snow peas, chickpeas and lentils, that are crucial to fixing nitrogen into the soil to improve soil health.

A full list of projects can be found here, and the 19 land-grant universities sharing in the $33 million include:

Alabama A&M University

Alcorn State University

Central State University

Delaware State University

Florida A&M University

Fort Valley State University

Kentucky State University

Langston University

Lincoln University of Missouri

North Carolina A&T State University

Prairie View A&M University

South Carolina State University

Southern University and A&M College

Tennessee State University

Tuskegee University

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff

University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Virginia State University

West Virginia State University

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John Lewis Forever Stamp Debuts At Morehouse College 

Morehouse College celebrates the launch of the new John Lewis Forever Stamp with a special ceremony honoring the alum’s life and legacy.

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On Friday, Morehouse College hosted a ceremony to celebrate the launch of the new John Lewis Forever Stamp. 

The stamp honoring iconic Morehouse alum John Lewis was announced in late 2022 for the upcoming year and unveiled by both parties of the U.S. House in June.

According to Rough Draft Atlanta, the two-hour ceremony at Morehouse, which coincided with the on-sale date of a “forever” stamp, was likened to a ‘celebration of life’ church service. 

The stamp features a photograph of John Lewis, taken for Time Magazine in 2013

The celebration was hosted by esteemed actress Alfre Woodard and was attended by Georgia senators John Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, former Atlanta mayors Bill Campbell and Shirley Franklin, and Lewis’ former staffers, family, and neighbors. The event also featured the musical selections of the Ebenezer Baptist Church choir. 

Many speakers reflected on John Lewis’ life and legacy and shared memories and the impact the congressman has had on their lives. 

“It wasn’t just his words and courage but his humility that influenced me to go into public life and to vote every time,” former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin shared. 

A banner featuring the John Lewis stamp sits next to a painting of Martin Luther King, Jr. and a bust of Gandhi at Morehouse College in Atlanta on July 21, 2023. (Credit: GPB News)

“John was able to see people with his heart, rather than with his mind, and that made all the difference,” Peggy Wallace Kennedy, daughter of segregationist and former Alabama Gov. George Wallace said. “Peace and love abided with his heart, that is the man I shall always remember.”

“His life is a testament to the power we all have to create the country that lives up to the ideals that John Lewis fought for, and this stamp is a reminder of that power and those ideals,” Ron Stroman, a Governor of the Board of Governors of the United States Postal Service, said at the event.

The John Lewis Forever Stamp is available now at your local post office. 

FAMU Football Team Cleared to Resume Team Activities

After all football activities were halted due to an unauthorized music video shot at Florida A&M University, the university has cleared the team to resume.

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After all football activities were halted due to an unauthorized music video shot at Florida A&M University, the university has cleared the team to resume.

On Friday, FAMU’s head football coach Willie Simmons released a statement announcing that all football-related activities after a rap video featuring some of the team’s players was shot without permission in the Rattlers’ locker room.

The video posted to Youtube was by rapper Real Boston Richey, titled “Send A Blitz.” In the video, the rapper appeared in the locker room wearing a Florida A&M shirt and team helmets, and several Florida A&M players are also seen in the background of the video.

In his statement, Simmons explained that the explicit language is the video does not reflect FAMU’s core values, principles and beliefs. “It is a privilege to wear the Orange and Green and as a football program, our young men have failed to live up to the standards set before us,” he said.

An internal investigation was launched to determine who allowed the use of the athletic facility and how the licensed apparel worn in the video could potentially violate Florida A&M licensing and branding agreements.

On Monday, Florida A&M announced that the investigation is ongoing and that football activity is allowed to resume.

“The FAMU Football team has been cleared to return to all football-related activity, effective Tuesday, July 25, 2023,” FAMU vice president and director of collegiate athletics Tiffani-Dawn Sykes said in a statement. “An investigation into the unauthorized video that was partially filmed in the football locker room is being led by the University’s Office of Compliance and Ethics. Since this is an ongoing investigation, no further comment can be shared at this time. In my role, I have been transparent with stakeholders and this time will be no different. I will make myself available for comment at the conclusion of the investigation.”

The Rattlers are slated to open fall camp on Aug. 4 and play against Jackson State University in the Orange Blossom Classic on Sept. 3.

The 114th NAACP National Convention is A Can’t-Miss Event!

The highly anticipated 114th NAACP National Convention is coming to Boston from July 28 to August 1, 2023 with the theme of “Thriving Together.”

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The highly anticipated 114th NAACP National Convention is coming to Boston from July 28 to August 1, 2023.

Focusing on the theme of “Thriving Together,” this year’s convention will bring change-makers from across the globe together to celebrate and uplift the Black community’s collective power.

“Each year, NAACP members, friends, and elected leaders gather at the Convention in a shared space that has proven vital for our collective growth and advocacy,” said NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson. “This space, intently curated each year by the Association’s local branch, state conference, and national leaders, provides us with the ability to harness the power of Black America. We use this sacred time to inspire each other and align on what we need to do to continue pushing this country forward. Now more than ever, this sacred convening is crucial to our continued fight for the preservation of democracy. We are excited to bring vitality and vibrance to our roots in Boston, home of the Association’s first chartered branch.”

NAACP has assembled numerous elected officials, activists, scholars, organizers, faith leaders, entrepreneurs, and entertainers to network and exchange ideas addressing critical issues faced by Black communities.

Prominent figures speaking at this year’s convention include the following:

  • Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States of America
  • Hillary Clinton, Former Secretary of State
  • Ayanna Pressley, United States Representative, Massachusetts
  • Justin Jones, United States Representative, Tennessee
  • Shavon Arline-Bradley, President and CEO of The National Council of Negro Women 
  • Kimberlé Crenshaw, Scholar and Civil Rights Activist
  • Gary Chambers, Social Justice Advocate
  • Bishop Vashti McKenzie, Author, “The Journey to Well”
  • Rome Flynn, Actor, Netflix’s “Raising Dion” and Prime Video’s “With Love”
  • Sheryl Underwood, Comedian, Host, ABC’s “The Talk”
  • Adrian Holmes, Actor, Peacock’s “Bel-Air”
  • Jasmine Guy, Actress, “A Different World”
  • Lamman Rucker, Actor, OWN’s “Greenleaf”
  • Essence Atkins, Actress, BET’s “First Wives Club”
  • Marcus Scribner, Actor, Freeform “Grown-ish” and ABC’s “Blackish”
  • Kadeem Hardison, Actor, “A Different World”
  • Danielle Ponder, Singer
  • Joy Taylor, Fox Sports Analyst and Co-Host of Speak on FS1
  • Robert Kraft, Chairman of The Kraft Group and Founder of the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (FCAS)
  • Robert “Meek Mill” Williams, Co-Chair of REFORM Alliance, Grammy-nominated recording artist, and entrepreneur
  • Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr., Historian, Filmmaker, and Harvard University Director of the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research

The annual convention will be composed of can’t-miss events including the grand opening of The Hub, an immersive cultural experience that will kick off with an opening block party feat. DJ Jazzy Jeff, the annual Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) competition, the Cinematic Shorts Competition, and the Spingarn Freedom Fund Awards Dinner honoring Dr. Hazel Dukes.

The NAACP’s 114th National Convention will also feature a panel discussion entitled “Hate Has No Home Here – A Moderated Conversation on Racism, Antisemitism, and Building Bridges to Fight All Hate” focused on the intersectionality of racial justice and the continued rise in hate crimes.

“Year after year, a resounding chorus of community members, celebrities, and elected leaders join us at the National Convention because this is where Black America reunites to recalibrate our compass. The Association and our network of activists have consistently influenced the moral direction of this country since its founding, proving time again that Black people can, and will, move mountains together,” said NAACP Convention Committee Chairman Michael Turner. “I look forward to another Convention filled with impactful and meaningful conversations and celebrations that will advance Black America’s vision for a society where we can thrive together.”

More information about the 114th NAACP National Convention, including a schedule of events and registration details can be found here.

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FAMU Coach Suspends Football Activities After Unauthorized Rap Video Shot in Locker Room

Florida A&M University has suspended all football-related activities after a rap music video featuring some of the team’s players was shot without permission in the Rattlers’ locker room.

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Florida A&M University has suspended all football-related activities after a rap music video featuring some of the team’s players was shot without permission in the Rattlers’ locker room.

Head football coach Willie Simmons released a statement announcing the decision on Friday night hours after the music video was released.

Simmons said that while he supports free speech and musical expression, the “graphic language” used in the video is “not consistent with Florida A&M’s core values, principles and beliefs.”

MOBILE, AL – FEBRUARY 04: A general view of a FAMU (Florida A&M) Rattlers helmet during the Reese’s Senior Bowl on February 4, 2023 at Hancock Whitney Stadium in Mobile, Alabama. (Photo by Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire) (Icon Sportswire via AP Images)

FAMU is conducting an investigation to determine who allowed the use of the athletic facility. 

The music video shot in the university’s locker room, titled “Send A Blitz” by rapper Real Boston Richey was posted to YouTube on Friday. The video shows the rapper in the locker room wearing a Florida A&M shirt and team helmets. Several Florida A&M players are also seen in the background of the video.

In his statement, Simmons said that the licensed apparel worn in the video could violate Florida A&M licensing and branding agreements and will also be investigated.

“It is a privilege to wear the Orange and Green and as a football program, our young men have failed to live up to the standards set before us,” Simmons said. “They will all learn from this mishap, and we will continue to work hard every day to become the best version of ourselves and continue making Rattler Nation Proud.”

Simmons told Associated Press that a team meeting is scheduled for Monday. “We’ll determine at that point if more severe penalties need to be handed down,” he said.

HBCU Football Players Currently in The NFL

In honor of National Football Day, stay up to date with HBCU players currently in the NFL with this list.

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July 19th is National Football Day

For years, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have produced great athletic talent and football players that have reached National Football League (NFL) status. NFL greats, from Jerry Rice and Deacon Jones to Shannon Sharpe and Michael Strahan, came from HBCUs before making their mark in the NFL. Today, HBCU football players in the NFL are continuing to leave it all on the field. Although this year’s NFL draft had a disappointing turnout with only one player (Isaiah Bolden) from an HBCU being picked, HBCU Buzz would like to highlight the HBCU football players that are currently in the NFL while we continue to call for the NFL to recognize HBCU talent. Check out the list below!

Alabama State University 

  1. Tytus Howard – Offensive Lineman – Houston Texans

Alcorn State University 

  1. Qwynterrio Cole – Safety – Las Vegas Raiders

Albany State University

  1. Grover Stewart – Defensive Tackle – Indianapolis Colts

Fayetteville State University

  1. Kion Smith – Offensive Tackle – Miami Dolphins
  2. Joshua Williams – Cornerback – Kansas City Chiefs

Florida A&M University 

  1. Keenan Forbes – Offensive Guard – Seattle Seahawks
  2. Markquese Bell – Safety – Dallas Cowboys

Fort Valley State University

  1. Shemar Bridges – Wide Receiver – Baltimore Ravens

Grambling State University

  1. Chester Rogers – Wide Receiver – Houston Texans

Jackson State University 

  1. James ‘The Problem’ Houston IV – Linebacker – Detroit Lions
  2. Daylen Baldwin – Wide Receiver  – Cleveland Browns
  3. Isaiah Bolden – Cornerback – New England Patriots 

Morgan State University 

  1. Josh Miles – Offensive Lineman – Arizona Cardinals

Norfolk State University

  1. De’Shaan Dixon – Defensive End – Jacksonville Jaguars
  2. Bobby Price – Defensive Back – Detroit Lions

North Carolina A&T University 

  1. Mac McCain – Cornerback – Philadelphia Eagles
  2. Brandon Parker – Offensive Tackle  – Las Vegas Raiders
  3. Darryl Johnson – Defensive End – Carolina Panthers

North Carolina Central University

  1. Nick Leverett – Center – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  2. Ryan McDaniel – Wide Receiver – Houston Texans

Prairie View A&M University 

  1. Storey Jackson – Linebacker – Dallas Cowboys
  2. Quinton Bell – Outside Linebacker – Atlanta Falcons
  3. KhaDarel Hodge – Wide Receiver – Atlanta Falcons

South Carolina State University

  1. Javon Hargrave – Defensive Tackle – Philadelphia Eagles
  2. Cobie Durant – Cornerback – Los Angeles Rams
  3. Darius ‘Shaq’ Leonard – Linebacker – Indianapolis Colts
  4. Joe Thomas – Linebacker – Chicago Bears
  5. Alex Taylor – Tackle – Cleveland Browns
  6. Roderick Perry – Defensive Tackle – Cleveland Browns
  7. Antonio Hamilton – Cornerback  – Arizona Cardinals

Southern University

  1. Danny Johnson – Safety – Washington Commanders
  2. Ja’Tyre Carter – Offensive Lineman – Chicago Bears

Tennessee State University

  1. Lachavious Simmons – Offensive Lineman – Chicago Bears

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 

  1. Terron Armstead – Offensive Tackle – Miami Dolphins

Bowie State University Reaches $50 Million Fundraising Goal Ahead of Schedule

Bowie State University has met its goal of raising $50 million as part of its fundraising campaign, BSU Bold: The Campaign for Excellence, two and a half years ahead of its December 2025 closing date.

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Bowie State University (BSU) has met its goal of raising $50 million as part of its fundraising campaign, BSU Bold: The Campaign for Excellence, two and a half years ahead of its December 2025 closing date.

In December 2021, Bowie State announced The BSU Bold: The Campaign for Excellence campaign, the largest fundraising in the university’s history. The campaign has been fueled by strengthening the university’s professional fundraising organization and developing new relationships with alumni, friends, corporations, and foundations.

“We have not wasted a moment asking our philanthropic partners to invest in the success of our students through this campaign,” said Aminta Breaux, president of BSU. “We are appreciative of all the individuals and organizations who have invested in our historic institution. Now we’re able to provide more of our students with scholarships.”

According to WJLA-TV, BSU Bold fundraising will increase Bowie State’s private scholarship funding and call attention to the university’s athletic program, which does not receive state funding, fine arts, and nursing programs, and its entrepreneurship education ecosystem.

Breaux said the university’s endowment increased more than 500% and is now standing at $40 million.

Many corporations contributed to the campaign, such as Adobe, the Kevin Durant Charity Foundation, Baltimore Gas and Electric, Truist Bank, the Blackstone Charitable Foundation, and more.

BSU received its largest gift of $25,000,000 from philanthropist and author MacKenzie Scott back in 2020.

Although the school has reached its campaign goal, its fundraising efforts are far from over according to Breaux.

“While we have met our initial campaign goal of $50 million ― we are challenged and inspired to continue our fundraising and expand the campaign, inviting others to join as we raise an unprecedented level of support for our students,” Breaux said. “We must continue and work to help make college more affordable and reduce student loan debt.”

Clark Atlanta University Receives A $1M Gift From Chick-Fil-A

Clark Atlanta University (CAU) announces that it has received a $1-million gift from Chick-fil-A.

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On Wednesday, Clark Atlanta University (CAU) announced that it received a $1-million gift from Chick-fil-A.

The gift was presented by CAU alumna and director of community affairs for corporate social responsibility at Chick-fil-A, Carol Waddy during the university’s 34th annual commencement on May 20. 

Accordig to the school, the donation will support the university’s historic $250 million Campaign for Clark Atlanta University, which has a principal goal of generating much needed funds for student access, retention, and graduation support.

The $1 million gift is set to be distributed over the next two years, according to a press release.

“Chick-fil-A’s generous commitment of $1 million is an investment in the bright futures of Clark Atlanta University students and will help ensure that we continue building on our mission of delivering education that is accessible, relevant, and transformative,” Clark Atlanta University President Dr. George T. French, Jr. shared in a said. 

“With partners like Chick-fil-A, our vision of being a leading institution of higher learning that impacts society through transformative, educational experiences is within reach,” he continued. “At Clark Atlanta, finding a way or making a way is a community endeavor.”

In addition to Chick-fil-A’s gift, CAU received a $2.5 million gift from the William F. Pickard Foundation to establish a scholarship fund and rename Beckwith Hall in honor of Dr. William F. Pickard and Thomas W. Dortch, Jr.

Howard University and UDC Partner To Produce Next Generation of Healthcare Workers

DC’s two HBCUs, The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) and Howard University have partnered to create more homegrown healthcare workers.

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DC’s two HBCUs, The University of the District of Columbia (UDC) and Howard University have partnered to create more homegrown healthcare workers, according to  WTOP News.

The HBCUs have created a new program called, PHIT4DC. It allows anyone from high schoolers to working healthcare professionals to enroll in public health informatics and technology courses.

“The program is offered in several pathways,” said Dr. Mary Awuonda, director of Howard’s Telepharmacy Center. “We have a no-wrong-door model for entry. So, we can make sure we have an impact in D.C.”

“Health care now is in the community,” Awuonda said. “The lack of direct engagement is what led to a lot of the poor outcomes Wards 7 and 8 saw over the pandemic. Frontline workers naturally know that a connection is important and know how to inform them.”

The program is geared towards students from Wards 7 and 8, who will focus their training on patients and residents in that area. They will train healthcare providers to understand a patient’s lived experiences and help those residents navigate healthcare information systems, according to Awuonda.

“When we’re talking about our communities in D.C., especially our underrepresented communities, we know that we need people we can trust,” Charletta Washington, PHIT4DC program director at UDC said the program said. “So, if and when the next public health emergency comes along, we know that we have a workforce that’s ready to engage the communities that are sometimes left out of the conversation.”

Five Tips To Succeed in Your Professional Life

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Whether you are in the process of job hunting or already in the beginning stages of your career, navigating your professional life after college can be intimidating. You may feel unprepared or just plain lost, but we’ve compiled a few tips that will help you in your professional career. Here are five tips to succeed in your professional life!

Grow Your Professional Network

There’s truth to the saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know” in the professional world. Networking is crucial when it comes to starting your career and discovering new opportunities. Get connected with your former classmates and professors on LinkedIn, and consider joining university alumni groups or career-related organizations to expand your network.

Get Recommendations

A benefit of networking and keeping in touch with teachers and former employers is getting recommendations to showcase your character and skills.  Personal branding pioneer William Arruda advises getting a recommendation on letterhead and on LinkedIn. “LinkedIn is a great place to request and showcase them,” he said. “Get in the habit of doing this whenever you are praised for a job well done. Testimonials are the best form of proof of performance, which enhances your credibility.”

Build Your Skills 

It’s never too late to learn something new and continue to strengthen your skills. Develop your professional skills by taking classes, attending workshops, or doing some research. You can even seek out mentorship from someone who is working in the profession you seek and get feedback from them. Remember to update your LinkedIn profile as you add more hard and soft skills to your resume. 

Set Goals 

When entering the professional world, it’s essential to go in with a plan and a set of goals. Take time to discover what you want to do with your career and create a detailed list of goals that will help guide you to where you want to be. Having a career plan and goals will help you find out what skills you need to develop and what certifications you’ll need to earn in preparation for your career. 

Be Confident

Confidence is key when it comes to entering the professional world. Job searching after college is a challenging task and may force you to face rejection, but having confidence and believing in yourself and your abilities will help you keep going and trying to get your foot in the door. However, confidence may not come as easily to some as others. Build your confidence by telling yourself positive affirmations, reminding yourself of your qualifications, and lean on your support system. 

Three HBCU Baseball Players Selected in the 2023 MLB Draft

HBCU baseball players Nolan Santos from Bethune-Cookman University, Xavier Meachem from North Carolina A&T University, and Trey Paige from Delaware State University have been selected in the 2023 MLB Draft.

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HBCU baseball players Nolan Santos from Bethune-Cookman University, Xavier Meachem from North Carolina A&T University, and Trey Paige from Delaware State University have been selected in the 2023 MLB Draft.

On Monday, Santos became the first player from an HBCU selected in this year’s MLB draft as he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins with the 207th overall pick.

Meachem was selected by the Miami Marlins in the 10th round with the 293rd overall pick, and Paige was selected by The St Louis Cardinals with the 515th pick of the 17th round.

Santos is the first B-CU player selected in the MLB draft since pitcher Anthony Maldonato in 2019 and the highest since Michael Cruz in 2016.

A standout at B-CU, the right-handed pitcher started 16 games during his junior season and finished with a 3.51 earned run average in 97 ⅓ innings. He had 138 strikeouts last season, placing him sixth in all of Division I college baseball.

Santos was one of 50 athletes who competed in the inaugural HBCU Swingman Classic last week.

“(The Twins) are getting a hard worker,” Bethune-Cookman head coach Johnny Hernandez said of Santos. “They’re getting a straight competitor, a bulldog on the mound. But they’re also getting a team-first individual.”

“No matter what individual accolades Nolan was able to earn this year, it was all about the team and what he was able to do to make not only the program but his teammates around him better.” Hernandez continued. “They’re going to get a really good, quality, high-character individual that is going to represent not only Bethune-Cookman but the SWAC as well.”

Meachem is the 21st North Carolina A&T player selected in the MLB Draft since the Texas Rangers selected RHP Leon Hunter in 2019 and is the highest since Al Holland in 1975. 

In 2023, the right-handed pitcher secured five saves and 12 strikeouts in 10.2 innings pitched. Meachem eventually became a starter and finished the season 2-1 with a 5.59 ERA in 48.1 innings pitched, according to N.C. A&T athletics. He also posted 47 strikeouts, became an MLB Draft prospect, pitched in the first annual HBCU Swingman All-Star Game, and made the USA National Collegiate Team.  

“When all of this started happening, I just thought back to my younger self,” said Meachem about getting drafted. “I never thought I would be in this position. I’m just really trying to enjoy the moment. It’s a dream come true to play for USA Baseball. Putting on the colors and playing for your country is very exciting. I’m proud to be representing African-American baseball players and HBCU players. It’s an all-around great opportunity.” 

“I’m super excited for Meach,” said N.C. A&T head coach Ben Hall. “He is a first-class person, and I know his best baseball is still ahead of him. It is always a fun time to see one of your guys accomplish a dream, especially one who has stepped up and really made it happen for himself. Xavier had a great year, and I couldn’t be happier for him.” 

Meachem will graduate from N.C. A&T with a degree in business management in December. 

Paige is the seventh player in DSU history to be drafted by an MLB team since 1991.

The 2022 MEAC Player of the Year, Paige is the eighth player in program history and seventh under current head coach JP Blandin to have been drafted by an MLB organization. He is also the second-highest MLB Draft selection in program history.

This season at Delaware State, Paige hit .372 with 14 homers, 15 doubles, 53 RBIs, 10 stolen bases, and a 1.159 OPS in 48 games and was named second-team All-NEC. Paige is also one of eight players in Delaware State history with more than 200 career hits, according to Reading Eagle.

The recently graduated Delaware State infielder was one of three HBCU players to participate in the 2023 MLB Draft Combine and had the first hit at the inaugural HBCU Swingman Classic.

“Our Hornet family is excited for Trey. ‘Cap’ has put in the work, and now he gets the opportunity he deserves,” said Blandin. “I am very grateful that the Cardinals drafted him as we have some former assistant coaches in that organization, and all told, it will be a perfect fit for him. He will make a great professional baseball player, and we all wish him the best.”

The Cardinals have listed Paige as a third baseman.

 

Top HBCU Host 2023

You voted. We listened. Check out the results for the Top 5 HBCU Hosts now!

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You voted. We listened. The Results For The Top 5 HBCU Hosts Are In!

MC, or Master of Ceremonies, is the person who hosts an event by introducing performers, speakers, or other participants. The term ‘master of ceremonies’ has been used since at least the 1600s, but the term ‘MC’ started to become heavily associated with rap music and hip-hop culture during the 1970s. The letters MC took on new meanings, such as “Microphone Controller,” “Move the Crowd,” and “Mic Checka.”  An MC is also called a host at times.

It’s the hosts’ job to keep the crowd entertained and the event flowing. They’re tasked with drawing energy and invoking excitement from the audience through storytelling and improvisation. HBCU Hosts at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are no different and are known around campus for their skills and stage presence. Whether it’s a homecoming party or a regular campus event, HBCU hosts light up the room with their personality, and we want to know who your favorite is.

You voted. We listened. The results for the Top 5 HBCU Hosts are in! Check it out below!

1. Michael Bivens (JussMikey) – North Carolina A&T University

Credit: Instagram @jussmikey

Micheal Bivens a.k.a JussMikey is a senior at North Carolina A&T University majoring in kinesiology. He said coming in first place “means the absolute world” to him. “This is something I wanted when I was a freshman and I didn’t get nominated. I really just want to impact all HBCUs across the nation and with this platform, I can exceed my goal of creating an experience that people with remember forever.”

2. Lil Obezzy – North Carolina A&T University

Credit: Instagram @lil_obezzy1

Lil Obezzy is a senior liberal studies major at North Carolina A&T University. “Being a Top 5 HBCU Host is a dream come true, I have worked a lot over the past year, so to see my hard pay off is the best feeling in the world” he said. “Being a host is more than just yelling on a mic, it is giving your crowd an experience they’ll never forget. Sometimes music isn’t enough it’s up to the host or MC to break the ice and bring the students together. So I can’t wait for all the memories and daze that lay ahead.”

3. Zion Dean – Virginia State University

Credit: Instagram @ball0ut.ent

Zion Dean is a junior at Virginia State University majoring in mass communication. When asked what placing in the top five HBCU Hosts means to him he said, “Honestly it means that my hard work didn’t go unnoticed. I started off in apartments, to owning clubs, renting out spaces to throw some of the biggest events while bringing awareness to my HBCU.”

4. Lor Z – Morgan State University

Credit: Instagram @_1lorz

 5. Kevontae Kelly – Savannah State University

Credit: Instagram @kevontaek

Kevontae Kelly is a graduate student at Savannah State University working towards his Master’s in Business Administration with a Minor in Marketing. “Being a Top 5 HBCU Host means a lot to me, I’m getting the opportunity to not only represent my university but also my hometown,” he said. “I take pride in the fact that I get to show the world the great things that can come out of small towns like Colquitt, GA. I’m thankful for my University as it has provided me the opportunity to work with a lot of great people and the support that my university community has given me, means the world. I want this to be an example to all of my tiger family and mentees that they can achieve anything that they set their minds and hearts to! BIG CMO!!! Being a top 5 HBCU host is an honor and I’m proud to be a part of the number. I’m looking forward to the future and any amazing opportunities that this may bring.”

Supreme Court Blocks Biden’s Student Loan Relief Plan

The Supreme Court has blocked President Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan which aimed at delivering up to $20,000 of relief to millions of borrowers.

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On Friday, the Supreme Court blocked President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan which would have eliminated up to $20,000 of federal student debt for borrowers earning up to $125,000 annually, or up to $250,000 for married couples.

Chief Justice John Roberts wrote the decision for a 6-3 court. The majority ruled that the program was an unlawful exercise of presidential power because it had not been explicitly approved by Congress.

The Biden administration sought to use the Higher Education Relief Opportunities for Students Act, or HEROES Act to waive the debt. The law says the government can provide relief to recipients of student loans when there is a “national emergency,” allowing it to act to ensure people are not in “a worse position financially” as a result of the emergency.

Roberts said the HEROES Act language was not specific enough. “The Secretary’s comprehensive debt cancellation plan cannot fairly be called a waiver – it not only nullifies existing provisions, but augments and expands them dramatically,” Roberts wrote. “However broad the meaning of ‘waive or modify,’ that language cannot authorize the kind of exhaustive rewriting of the statute that has taken place here.”

According to CNN, Biden will announce new actions to protect student loan borrowers when he speaks later Friday.

“I will stop at nothing to find other ways to deliver relief to hard-working middle-class families,” Biden said in a statement. “My administration will continue to work to bring the promise of higher education to every American.”

How The Supreme Court’s Affirmative Action Ruling May Affect HBCUs

HBCUs may see an increase in enrollment as a result of the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down affirmative action.

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On Thursday, June 29, the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action, making it unlawful for colleges to take race into consideration as a specific factor in admissions.

According to various news outlets, the ruling will impact admissions policies that have historically benefited Black and Latino students applying to predominantly white, highly selective institutions. However, Historically Black Colleges and Institutions will also be affected by the Supreme Court’s decision. 

HBCUs are expected to see an increase in enrollment as a result of the ruling. Howard University President Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick said that this may bring challenges to the universities. 

“Historically Black colleges and universities are carrying an outsized burden to diversify so many industries in America. We represent only 3% of the higher [education] institutions, but we are responsible for 25% of the bachelor’s degrees,”  Frederick said in an interview with CNN. “By not allowing race to be considered in admissions elsewhere, you can put an even more outsized burden on historically Black colleges and universities who don’t have the capacity to carry that type of a burden.”

Eddy Carder, an assistant professor of constitutional law and philosophy at Prairie View A&M echoed Frederick’s sentiments in an interview with Axios, saying  “Increased enrollment can become a practical issue because enrollment means more resources, buildings, space, and technology.” 

Other HBCU leaders have spoken out, welcoming new prospective students in response to the end of affirmative action. 

“We more than want to welcome those students here and it is our hope that maybe they broaden their perspective in terms of where they might be searching,” Dr. Ricardo Phipps, Provost and vice president of academic affairs at St. Augustine’s University, told Spectrum News.

“More students of color, who might have chosen to apply to a predominantly white institution, will now apply to and attend an HBCU instead. HBCUs — and an ever-broadening array of HBCUs — will draw a greater number of talented students of color,” Delaware State University President Tony Allen said in a statement. “We will welcome them as we have always done. And we will need stalwart partners to help us in our work.”

As the Supreme Court ruling may cause an uptick in enrollment at HBCUs, the underfunding of HBCUs must be addressed.

A recent study found that HBCUs get 178 times less funding than Ivy League schools.

“Despite the achievements of HBCUs, philanthropy funds these higher education institutions at significantly lower rates than comparable PWIs,” wrote Susan Taylor Batten, the study’s author and President & CEO of ABFE, which promotes philanthropy in Black communities. “This leaves HBCUs with less than adequate funding to support their operations, educational programs, infrastructure, and endowments.”

Additionally, compared to their predominantly white counterparts, the nation’s Black land-grant universities have been underfunded by at least $12.8 billion over the last three decades,  according to Forbes. 

Last year, students at Florida A&M University sued the state of Florida and the board of governors, claiming decades of discriminatory underfunding of the school and that the state prioritizes funding for predominantly white institutions like Florida State University over HBCUs like FAMU. 

Tennessee State University To Become First HBCU With a Hockey Team

Tennessee State University has partnered with the NHL, the National Hockey League Players Association, and the Nashville Predators to become the first HBCU to introduce an ice hockey program.

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On Wednesday, Tennessee State University (TSU) announced that it will become the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to introduce an ice hockey program.

TSU has partnered with the National Hockey League (NHL), the National Hockey League Players Association, and the Nashville Predators to create the new program and will hold a joint news conference at Bridgestone Arena ahead of the NHL draft on Wednesday.

The university has been exploring the idea of implementing a hockey program since May 2021, when it took part in a feasibility study administered by College Hockey Inc., an entity that works to grow the collegiate game. The study was offered to see if TSU is in a position to add a hockey team.

“The idea of establishing a collegiate hockey program at TSU is a tremendous opportunity as the nation’s first HBCU to take on this endeavor,” TSU President Glenda Glover said in 2021. “This allows us to expand the sport, increase diversity, and introduce a new fan base.” 

According to ESPN, the men’s team will start play as a club program in 2024 and while no timeline was given, TSU said its goal is to eventually field both a Division I men’s and women’s team.

“Bringing ice hockey to Tennessee State University is a part of our continued commitment to provide our students with new opportunities and to broaden new interests in areas where they have traditionally had limited or no access,” Glover said in a statement. “We appreciate our ongoing partnership with the Nashville Predators which has played a pivotal role in our decision to pursue this historic undertaking of starting an ice hockey program at TSU, and the first for a HBCU.”

TSU’s hockey program addition follows the recent trend of HBCUs adding new, non-traditional sports programs to their athletic department. This can be seen in Fisk University and Talladega College being the only HBCUs to offer women’s gymnastics and Morgan State University’s plans to become the only HBCU offering Division I men’s wrestling this upcoming school year.

Angela Bassett to Receive Honorary Oscar

Honorary Howard grad Angela Bassett will receive an honorary Academy Award at the Governor’s Awards.

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Honorary Howard University grad and two-time nominee Angela Bassett will finally take home an Oscar at the 2023 Governors Awards, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) announced Monday.

The Honorary Award is “to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences, or outstanding service to the Academy.”

Bassett received her first Oscar nomination for best actress for her remarkable performance as Tina Turner in 1993’s “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” At this year’s ceremony, she made history as the first actor from a Marvel Studios film and the first woman from a superhero movie, to receive acting recognition when she was nominated for best supporting actress for her powerful performance as Queen Ramonda in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.”

“Across her decades-long career, Angela Bassett has continued to deliver transcendent performances that set new standards in acting,” said Academy President Janet Yang in Monday’s news release.

Filmmaker Mel Brooks and editor Carol Littleton will also receive honorary Oscars at this year’s Governors Awards. Sundance Institute exec Michelle Statter is set to receive the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.

The 2023 Governors Awards will be held in Los Angeles on November 18.