Angel Jackson, WNBA player from Jackson State University | Photo Courtesy of Clutch Points |
The Las Vegas Aces are preparing for the 2024 WNBA season where they plan to become only the second team ever to win three consecutive league championships.
However, they will have to do so without Angel Jackson, a top HBCU star at Jackson State who was recently waived. Jackson, a former three-time SWAC Defensive Player of the Year, was released by the Aces, as confirmed by local team reporter Callie Lawson-Freeman.
LAS VEGAS (May 7, 2024)—Las Vegas Aces General Manager Natalie Williams announced today that the team has waived rookie forward Angel Jackson.
Selected by the Aces at No. 36 in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Jackson was a two-time SWAC Defensive Player of the Year while playing for Jackson State. She averaged 9.6 points and 7.0 rebounds in her two seasons at Jackson State, while blocking 171 shots in 64 games. Jackson transferred to JSU after playing her first three seasons at USC.
The Aces, who will play a preseason game against Puerto Rico on May 11 in South Carolina, tip-off their season against Phoenix at 7 pm on May 14 at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, as prior to the game the Aces will receive their 2023 WNBA Championship rings and unveil their championship banner in Michelob ULTRA Arena.
After learning of her release, Jackson took to Twitter, simply stating “15 will be back.”
Jackson, a player from Jackson State, was picked by the Las Vegas Aces as the 36th and final pick in this year’s WNBA Draft.
She’s the seventh HBCU player to be drafted in the WNBA and the second player from JSU to be drafted in the last three years, following Ameshya-Williams Holliday in 2022.
Jackson was aiming to become the first HBCU player to make an active WNBA roster since 2008 when a former Howard center was a member of the Washington Mystics.
The Las Vegas Aces are scheduled to play their preseason opener this Saturday at the University of South Carolina against the Puerto Rican national team.
Last Saturday, a pioneering farming organization, The Issac Batterson 7th Family Trust, and their CEO, Gregory Gerami, made a monumental contribution to Florida A&M’s resources.
The organization gifted a staggering $237.75 million award to FAMU’s Foundation, more than double the university’s total endowment of $121 million. This donation is also the largest single donation ever made to an HBCU.
However, the nearly quarter-billion-dollar donation has come under scrutiny from all sides, with some critics now calling for transparency regarding the details of the donation.
Gregory Gerami, the 30-year-old hemp farmer, investor, and entrepreneur drew national spotlight with his gift, which appears to be both the largest in history at FAMU and any of the other 100-plus historically Black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, in the country.
According to an article published by Education News Flash, Jerell Blakely expressed his belief that FAMU had been deceived by Gerami’s sizeable donation. Blakely stated that if the donation was found to be a scam, the institution’s leadership should resign due to a “massive lack of vetting.”
“It is hard to avoid the feeling that this “donation” will go down as one of the biggest scams in higher education history. If the money is indeed in the bank, I wonder if that will be shown to be false in a few days? If the money is there without issue, then I’m wrong and the university has a foundation for great prosperity by way of an ultra rich, unknown business tycoon who seems to care little about how he or his business would benefit from such a bold philanthropic effort. But if this turns out to be a scam, the entire university leadership should resign for a massive lack of vetting.”
Donor and CEO Gregory Gerami says he doesn’t understand the skepticism about the gift.
“The stocks have been held by the university for over a month now, so I don’t know where the confusion or the skepticism would be since it’s already in a financial account with the university,” Gerami said.
According to the Tallahassee Democrat, Gerami is also a pioneer in producing and selling high-quality hemp seeds. He says he did not attend FAMU or graduate from college, but he started off his career by building a landscaping business and has also worked in property management and economic development consulting before establishing his farming company.
But little is known about Gerami, his business, or the Issac Batterson 7th Family Trust that put up the money. They have a remarkably small online footprint, and news that his $95 million “transformational” planned gift to Coastal Carolina University fell through last year has further fueled alumni concerns.
Germani cited the recent claims as “incorrect and damaging.”
“This is a main example why I don’t have an internet presence, nor do I care to have one,” Gerami said of the online skepticism. “People take things out of context. They run and they damage and hurt people with information that’s incorrect and just not appropriate.”
“We are fully aware of the skepticism that sometimes comes with such a large gift,” the university said in the statement. “As expected, some individuals in the public are and will continue researching Mr. Gerami.
“Please know that FAMU has done its due diligence when it comes to this matter. Additionally, Mr. Gerami has and continues to do his own due diligence on things that have been and are happening at FAMU.”
Gregory Gerami and FAMU President, Larry Robinson during FAMU 2024 Commencement.
Gerami said FAMU has become like family and is the designated university to which he chooses to expand his charitable giving efforts.
“When we look at our legacy and our business — and as I exit out of my business, which should happen in the next couple of years — FAMU is the designated spot as I expand on charitable giving in research,” Gerami said. “I’ve gotten to know the folks at FAMU really well and I consider them like family.
Gerami says the multi-million-dollar gift to FAMU is the first donation he has ever made at that level.
The scrutiny over the donation is not only from outsiders but also from FAMU officials and affiliates.
FAMU Board of Trustees Vice Chair Deveron Gibbons. via Glenn Beil
The vice chair of Florida A&M University’s Board of Trustees called on FAMU President Larry Robinson and board chair Kristin Harper to convene a public “emergency” meeting for the university community to learn more about a recent $237 million donation.
“As Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, I have a responsibility to safeguard the integrity of the university I cherish, but I have deep concerns that this process is moving too quickly to embrace a gift without proper scrutiny.”
“As Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, I have a responsibility to safeguard the integrity of the university I cherish, but I have deep concerns that this process is moving too quickly to embrace a gift without proper scrutiny.”
Gibbons says he has been getting calls from the university’s alumni across the country with similar concerns about the $237 million gift’s validity, and he hopes a public board meeting will allow them to ask questions.
“The whole thing is a little weird in terms of how it has all played out,” Gibbons said. “It might be best for us to be very transparent as a university to make sure that we give out all the available information that we can get to the folks in the community and our constituents.”
Ruth Ray Jackson has recently been appointed as the seventeenth president of Langston University, which is a historically Black university located in Oklahoma.
She has been serving as an interim president for the last year. Langston University has over 1,800 undergraduate and 130 graduate students, with African Americans making up 79% of the undergraduate student body.
Dr. Jackson has been associated with Langston University for the past decade. She first joined the university in 2014 as a professor and later became the dean of the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences.
We are excited to announce the Oklahoma A&M Board of Regents has appointed Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson to be the 17th President of Langston University #WeRoarhttps://t.co/N2iA1XKA71
Four years later, she transitioned from faculty to administrative leadership, becoming associate vice president for student success in 2018. She was promoted to vice president of academic affairs one year later and held the position until she was appointed interim president.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude to our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community for their support throughout my tenure as interim president and now upon my appointment. I also extend my thanks to the presidential search committee for their significant contributions to the search process, and to the Oklahoma A&M Board of Regents for placing their confidence in my vision to lead Langston University.”
Before her tenure with Langston University, Dr. Jackson spent 11 years with Louisiana State University Shreveport. During this time, she served as an associate professor of education, director of the master of education program, and chair of the education department. She served as a public school teacher and administrator in Louisiana before transitioning her career to higher education.
Dr. Ruth Ray Jackson presented at today’s regular meeting of the Oklahoma A&M Board of Regents, where the Regents congratulated Dr. Jackson for her recent appointment as the 17th President of Langston University. Her presidency begins May 1, 2024. #WeRoar 🦁 pic.twitter.com/EHftsbywEr
“I am honored to lead Langston University into its next chapter,” said Dr. Jackson. “I love this university and believe in its faculty, staff, students, and alumni. Our mission must be focused on empowering students, celebrating student success, and contributing to the betterment of Oklahoma and beyond. Together, we will build upon Langston’s legacy and create a future where excellence knows no bounds.”
Dr. Jackson is a graduate of historically Black Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she received her bachelor’s degree in secondary education and English and her master’s degree in educational leadership and administration. She earned a Ph.D. in education and human resource management at Colorado State University.
Over the past decade, depression rates among young adults have risen to double the rate among the general population. While not all young adults who attend college experience depression after graduating, this transition may serve as a trigger, as it can involve a variety of social, emotional, and financial challenges.
Postgraduate depression, also known as post-graduation blues or post-graduation depression, –is a common phenomenon that some individuals experience after completing their studies and entering the workforce or transitioning to a new phase of life. It can be characterized by feelings of sadness, anxiety, uncertainty, and lack of direction or purpose.
For HBCU graduates, postgraduate depression can have unique challenges and impacts due to the specific experiences and pressures associated with attending an HBCU. Here are some potential ways postgraduate depression may impact HBCU graduates:
Transition Stress: Graduating from an HBCU and transitioning to the workforce or further education can be a significant change that may lead to feelings of uncertainty and stress.
Identity Crisis: HBCU graduates may experience an identity crisis as they navigate the transition from a supportive and culturally rich environment to a different setting where they may feel isolated or disconnected from their cultural roots.
Pressure to Succeed: HBCU graduates may feel pressure to succeed and positively impact their communities, which can contribute to feelings of inadequacy or imposter syndrome.
Lack of Support: HBCU graduates may struggle to find the same level of support and community that they had during their college years, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Financial Concerns: The financial pressures of student loans, finding a job, and establishing financial stability post-graduation can add to stress and anxiety for HBCU graduates.
World Events: World events can have a significant impact on mental health. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a 25% increase Trusted Source in the prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide.
As a post-graduate from an HBCU, it’s imperative to prioritize your mental health. Addressing post-graduate depression among HBCU graduates can help break the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community and encourage individuals to seek help and support when needed.
In addition, HBCUs can also provide resources and support for graduates experiencing post-graduate depression, to help navigate the challenges of transitioning to the workforce and finding their place in the professional world.
Here are some tips specifically tailored for HBCU post-graduates:
Seek Support: Connect with other HBCU alumni or post-graduates who can understand your unique experiences and provide support.
Practice Self-Care: Take time for yourself to relax, unwind, and recharge. This can include activities like meditation, exercise, or hobbies you enjoy.
Maintain a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can help create a sense of stability and control, especially during times of transition.
Set Realistic Goals: Graduating from an HBCU is an accomplishment, but it’s okay to take small steps toward your next goals. Break them down into manageable tasks.
Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends, family, and mentors who can offer encouragement and guidance as you navigate post-graduate life.
Practice Gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your post-graduate experience, such as the skills and knowledge you gained during your time at an HBCU. Practicing gratitude can help shift your mindset and improve your overall well-being.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist, counselor, or mental health professional for support.
It’s important for HBCU graduates experiencing postgraduate depression to seek support from friends, family, mentors, or mental health professionals. Taking care of your mental health and seeking help when needed is essential in navigating the challenges of post-graduation life.
The Paul Quinn College Class of 2024 was in for a treat on May 4, as they were informed that they would be receiving two round-trip tickets each, courtesy of Southwest Airlines. The airline is the official partner of this HBCU located in Dallas, Texas.
The tickets can be used for any Southwest domestic destination.
“We are so blessed to have people in Southwest Airlines that understand what it means to be a Quinnite. They understand what it means to advocate for others, to make room in our lives for different points of view,” Paul Quinn College President Michael Sorrell said.
“We want you to travel and experience the world as you embark on your next chapter in life. Be curious, stay adventurous. So, as a little graduation surprise from your friends at Southwest Airlines to celebrate your incredible journey, we have a special gift for you,” Nieto said before asking the students to look under their seats.
“To celebrate your accomplishments, Southwest Airlines would like to gift each of you two roundtrip tickets to any Southwest Airlines domestic destination,” Nieto continued, to a roar from the crowd.
Dr. Michael Sorrell is the president of Paul Quinn College, serving since 2007
Sorrell utilized the opportunity to entertain the audience with some friendly and sociable jokes. “Yeah, I didn’t get any of that when I was a graduating senior,” he joked.
Southwest announced its official partnership with the HBCU in October 2022. The program includes paid internships specifically for Paul Quinn College students along with ongoing educational and workforce development opportunities.
It’s HBCU graduation season and Vice President Kamala Harris is joining in to celebrate the graduates. Kamala Harris, an HBCU graduate from Howard University, recently surprised the graduating class of North Carolina Central University with a special message on their commencement day, this past Saturday.
Congratulations to the HBCU Class of 2024. Well, you made it,” VP Harris said.
“Through early-morning classes and late-night study sessions. Through remote learning and social distancing. With the support of your family and friends and the faculty and staff. You made it to graduation.
I have to tell you — our nation is so proud of you. This is a special moment. I speak from personal experience when I say — someone you met your first day of class will be in your wedding party. Someone sitting near you today will ask you to be Godparent to their child. Or be at their swearing-in to public office.
— North Carolina Central University (@NCCU) May 4, 2024
And class of 2024: As Vice President of the United States I tell you — no matter what path you choose to follow from here — our nation needs you. We need your ambition. We need your aspirations. We need your voice and we need your leadership. In our schools, hospitals, courtrooms, as tech founders, entrepreneurs, engineers, scientists and leaders at the highest levels of government. We need you to continue to work to build a brighter future for our nation and our world. And you are ready.
As a proud HBCU graduate — I know firsthand — the value of attending an institution like yours. You leave here having been taught that you can do and be anything. And that you have a duty be excellent. To work to uplift the condition of all people. And to fight to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms. So as you set out on the next chapter of your life. Remember there is no obstacle you can not overcome. There is no barrier that you cannot break. And there is no limit to your capacity for greatness.
And wherever you go, please always remember. Everyone you see today, we’re all going to be with you, cheering you. So congratulations on this tremendous achievement. I’m so very proud of you. Please take care. And wherever you go, please always remember. Everyone you see today, we’re all going to be with you, cheering you. So congratulations on this tremendous achievement. I’m so very proud of you. Please take care.“
VP Harris graduated from Howard in 1986 with a degree in political science and economics. Harris then returned to California to attend law school at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law through its Legal Education Opportunity Program (LEOP).
Harris is currently running for re-election on the ticket with President Joe Biden.
Channing Crowder on The Pivot Podcast Show. Courtesy of The Pivot.
During a recent Rolling Out interview, podcast personality, comedian, and former NFL player Channing Crowder doubled down on why he doesn’t want to send his kids to an HBCU (Historically Black College and University).
When asked why he’s advocated for young athletes to attend traditional Power 5 programs instead of HBCUs, Crowder explained that HBCUs are “too far behind.”
“OK. I don’t not want it to happen. We’re just too far behind. It’s just too far … I’m [a] Florida guy. I know to be a Gator, there are 10s of 1000s of people who donate over $100,000 a year just to have a little sticker on their collar of their suit. It’s so much money pumped into those universities.”
Crowder also mentioned the lack of resources for HBCUs during a visit to Howard University.
“My wife took me to Howard for the first time. I’m used to Florida. I’m used to stone crabs and sirloin steaks every night. I’m used to unlimited meal tickets so I can go in there all day, 24/7, and get me a steak whenever. I’m used to a 96,000-person stadium. A $4-6 million weight room. I went to Howard and I’m like, “This is where y’all play? Like, this is the football field that you play on?” My high school field was bigger than that…”
With NIL now, Caleb Williams is making $5 million leaving USC. Could Jackson State do that?” Crowder asked.
Crowder has previously expressed controversial views on HBCUs and advocated for Power 5 programs instead.
Master P’s son is leaving Tennessee State due to a lack of resources. This is what Channing Crowder was getting at on that episode with Dion and why he wouldn’t be quick to send his kids to an HBCU.
Y'all gotta understand Channing Crowder always been a hater. This is the same person that told Deion Sanders it was pointless to take the head coaching job at Jackson State. Now JSU flourishing with the first HBCU with a Top-25 in college recruiting with #1 player in the country. https://t.co/fPgnl4y2N3
In May 2021, Crowder, who was a two-time all-SEC selection at Florida before playing six seasons in the NFL, said that top recruits would not pick HBCUs over Power-5 schools.
Flashback to @iamathletepodcast interview.. June 2021 –"I'm changing all that.." Former Jackson State Head coach Deion Sanders speaks out changing the game for HBCUs and pipeline to the NFL. pic.twitter.com/3kGOXzV7OI
He told then Jackson State coach Deion Sanders that he could not compete with Power-5 schools in recruiting when Sanders was a guest on the “I AM ATHLETE” podcast.
Six months later, Sanders signed Hunter, the No. 1 prospect in the country who was committed to Sanders’ Florida State for nearly two years. Hunter was the highest-rated recruit to pick an HBCU or an FCS school in the recruiting rankings era.
Crowder issued an apology to Sanders on an episode of “The Pivot Podcast” on YouTube.
“I want to apologize because I said that, I did, and it was very strong,” Crowder said “I said there’s not going to be a top recruit that chooses and HBCU over a Power-5 school and I want to apologize to Deion because he did pull him. As Deion he did pull Travis Hunter to an HBCU.”
When the RollingOut interviewer told Crowder that they believed Deion’s son, Shedeur would have received the same Power 5 level offer if he’d stayed at Jackson State University, Crowder questioned why Deion Sanders left JSU.
“Uncle Prime, that’s my ace. I love Coach Prime. That’s my man. I talk [to] and text him all the time. But why did he leave [JSU]? The resources aren’t there…”
If it’s my son, who plays baseball, football and basketball, or my daughter, who’s a crazy tennis player and amazing basketball player, I can’t push them to go somewhere if these people are offering them a million dollars a year.
I think your kids, off the strength of your name, could get $250K a year at an HBCU, the interviewer said.
“And they could get a million over there. It’s simple math,” Crowder responded.
Pensole Lewis College (PLC) Detroit continues to raise the bar. The only design-focused Historically Black College and University (HBCU), has partnered with global sportswear leader Nike to launch an industry-certified education program called Future Sole | PLC powered by Nike.
The program comprises online and in-person masterclasses in:
Apparel
Color
Materials
Footwear
Graphics
3D design
Product Marketing
Through an immersive curriculum, students will have unparalleled personal and professional development opportunities. Three PLC Detroit department chairs, all esteemed Nike alums, will lead these masterclasses, offering valuable mentorship and practical experience.
This groundbreaking partnership is a testament to NIKE, Inc.’s Black Community Commitment, a $40 million investment over four years to support the Black community in the United States by championing social justice, education, and addressing racial inequality.
Under the leadership of Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, the founder of PLC Detroit and former design director at Nike’s Jordan brand, this collaboration aims to level the playing field in design education for HBCU students and bring together HBCUs. Future Sole | PLC will be a platform for PLC Detroit to share its industry-approved curriculum and inspire other HBCUs interested in design.
“To be taught by former Nike design directors is invaluable,” said Edwards.
“The program creates a real-time professional environment to develop skills and prepare students for successful design careers.”
This partnership between Nike and PLC Detroit represents an exceptional milestone, as it is the first of its kind for any HBCU. It builds upon the ongoing collaboration established in 2018, which includes the Serena Williams Design Crew and the Converse All-Star Design Team—apprenticeship initiatives to nurture the next generation of diverse talent that develops footwear, apparel, and accessory designs from concept to creation in partnership with PLC Detroit.
“Inclusivity and diversity have long been challenges in the design industry,” said Edwards.
“In all the partnerships that PLC Detroit has solidified, Nike, Inc. has been the most beneficial in providing internships, apprenticeships, and full-time employment to over 100 PLC Detroit alumni in the last 14 years.”
In 2008, while at Nike, Dr. Edwards introduced the Future Sole program, which gained over one million participants in four years. This track record of achievement underscores Future Sole | PLC’s transformative potential for empowering the next generation of design talent.
About Pensole Lewis College
Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design is a private, historically black college in Detroit, Michigan. It was also the first and only historically black college in Michigan. Founded in 1928 as the Lewis College of Business by Violet T. Lewis, it specialized in business-related topics.
The school became the first HBCU to reopen, rebranding as Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design in 2021 through the efforts of D’Wayne Edwards, founder of the Pensole Footwear Design Academy, with an emphasis on design in addition to business.
Applications are open until June 2, 2024, at 11:59 PM EST. Students who have graduated from an HBCU in the past three years are eligible to apply.
AAMU announced the generous gift from AAMU Alumnus and NFL Hall of Famer John Stallworth on Friday via X, formerly known as Twitter. Stallworth, who attended the school between 1970 and 1974, presented a check for $1,214,721 to support AAMU students.
HAPPENING NOW: Alabama A&M Alumnus and NFL Hall of Famer John Stallworth just concluded his Commencement address to the Class of 2024 with a special gift of $1,214,721.00 to support #AAMU students!!!! #StartHere#ProtectTheHillpic.twitter.com/uZm0yMHbp3
“Life includes lowlights and highlights. You may be discouraged, but never be defeated. I’m thankful for the things that hurt and the things that healed,” Stallworth said during his commencement speech.
Stallworth advised HBCU graduates that low times are equally important as the high times.
“Class of 2024, all the events of your life determine the person you will grow to be, the highlights and the lowlights, we’re shaped by them both,” he said.
Alabama A&M graduates at the 2024 ceremony. Photo Courtesy: Alabama A&M
“If we’re truly honest with ourselves, whether looking back over the last four years or the last 50, I think we can agree that those lowlight events – those times we prayed would never happen again, those days that we were thankful we just made it through – coupled with the highlights, give us a deeper understanding of ourselves.”
Stallworth is a 1974 AAMU grad who had a phenomenal Pro Football career. The wide receiver had over 8,700 receiving yards and 63 touchdown receptions. In his career, Stallworth won four NFL Super Bowl rings.
He was First-team All-Pro in 1979 and was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 1984. He’s a three-time Pro Bowler and a part of the Pittsburgh Steelers Hall of Honor.
Here are the top 5 HBCU DJs who made waves and kept our yards LIT!
DJing has come a long way since its inception in the early 20th century, and it has become an integral part of social gatherings on college campuses, especially HBCUs. A good DJ sets the mood and keeps the crowd going, —whether it’s a party, a homecoming event, or an on-campus gathering.
And the winners are: Here are your TOP FIVE HBCU DJs of 2024 representing #NCAT , #WSSU, #LangstonU, #GramblingState, & #CentralState
Help us make some noiseeeee & congratulate these DJs for making waves and keeping our yards LIT!
Florida A&M University (FAMU) received a $237.75 million gift from the Issac Batterson 7th Family Trust and Chief Executive Officer Gregory Gerami to support student success initiatives and athletics.
On Saturday, a pioneering farming organization, The Issac Batterson 7th Family Trust, and their CEO, Gregory Gerami, made a monumental contribution to Florida A&M’s resources.
The organization gifted a staggering $237.75 million award to FAMU’s Foundation, more than double the university’s total endowment of $121 million. This donation is also the largest single donation ever made to an HBCU.
The generous donation was handed to FAMU President Larry Robinson in the form of a large check during Saturday’s 2 p.m. commencement ceremony at the Al Lawson Center, where Gerami — founder of the farming company Batterson Farms Corporation — was the keynote speaker.
“This gift is breathtaking in its generosity and its scope. It changes the narrative about what is possible for FAMU. I cannot thank Gregory Gerami and the Issac Batterson 7th Family Trust enough. Their names are now etched into the annals of Florida A&M University in perpetuity,” FAMU president Larry Robinson said in a university news release.
“This donation will have a far-reaching impact on our academic and athletics programs. It will greatly enhance our ability to provide scholarships for students and also give us a boost in recruiting top students, and recruiting and retaining top faculty.”
“FAMU has become like a family to our Trust, our company and to me. Our morals and our mission are in line with FAMU and FAMU’s mission,” Gerami said during an announcement at one of Florida A&M’s three commencement ceremonies Saturday. “It’s also about making sure that we set FAMU on the path to being the top HBCU in this country.”
Gerami established Batterson Farms Corporation, a renowned company in Texas that specializes in producing eco-friendly and sustainable agricultural products made from hemp. The generous donation made by Gerami will benefit two university programs: the Center for Disability Access and Resources and the athletic program.
Athletics programs also will substantially benefit from Gerami’s gift. Vice President and Athletic Director Tiffani-Dawn Sykes calls it a “game-changer.”
“This donation substantially elevates the way FAMU athletes show up in the competition landscape. This reflects his commitment to the overall development of our staff and student athletes. It will position us, not only to compete but to dominate every time we step on the field and on the court,” Sykes said. “This gift is absolutely a game changer for FAMU Athletics. It will transform the way we are able to recruit; it will transform the way we are develop and support our athletes.
The FAMU Foundation has an investment value of $160 million.
With decades of healthcare leadership experience and a passion for patient navigation and health equity, Moore has built extensive community-based relationships throughout North Carolina, having previously served as assistant director of community outreach, engagement, and equity and the director of the Office of Health Equity at Duke Cancer Institute.
He is committed to addressing the unique needs of the communities he serves and remains a tireless volunteer advocate dedicated to helping cancer patients in underserved communities navigate the complex healthcare system.
“I have had the opportunity to observe Dr. Moore’s positivity, passion and persistence for reaching and engaging communities, especially those who are underrepresented,” said Robbie Tilley, Associate Director of Cancer Center Partnerships for the American Cancer Society.
“His dedication to making a difference makes him an excellent choice for the Fredda Bryan National Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award.”
“I was given the gift and ability to connect with people from various backgrounds,” said Moore. “I get satisfaction in helping people overcome health challenges. Cancer impacts everyone. This is why patient navigation services are so important. We have a very complex healthcare system and most patients and family members with a cancer diagnosis need help getting to and through the healthcare system.”
Moore has been a prominent member of the American Cancer Society National Navigation Round Table (NNRT) since 2019 and was selected to serve on the NNRT’s steering committee in 2021.
“Dr. Moore is incredibly knowledgeable at both the academic and practice level of navigation that he brings to all of his work, as well as his insight and kindness,” said Andi Dwyer, chair of the NNRT. “His navigation program has been an exemplar to the field integrating professional standards, metrics and training as well as bridging the community and oncology care.”
“Angelo is a wonderful colleague and is so deserving of this incredible honor,” added NNRT co-chair Linda Fleisher.
A member of North Carolina’s Advisory Committee on Cancer Coordination and Control, the state’s comprehensive cancer coalition, Moore serves on the advisory’s early detection subcommittee. Additionally, he was a panelist for the North Carolina ACS Cancer Action Network Policy Forum, discussing “Health Equity in a Post-COVID World.”
“Dr. Moore’s expertise in health equity led to a comprehensive discussion on the need for representation of Black, Indigenous, and people of color in healthcare, research, education and advocacy,” said Riguey King, Vice President of Community Impact for the American Cancer Society.
The Fredda Bryan National Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award recognizes an American Cancer Society volunteer or volunteer group that has made an incredible impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families by advancing its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Universities are known for their impressive collections of buildings and architectural beauty.
However, only a few can be regarded as the most gorgeous college campuses in the United States. Many schools have beautiful features such as stunning libraries, immaculate dining halls, or otherworldly dormitories, but the institutions on the list below stand out in every aspect. These campuses are like a well-designed outfit, with everything from the entrance arches to the academic halls and well-manicured lawns working together to create a place that is both aesthetically stunning and academically enriching.
Recently, Architecture Digest surveyed the country’s most beautiful college campuses, taking into account both architectural heritage and surroundings. These two HBCUs were ranked the prettiest colleges in America!
Howard University, Ranked #60 — Washington, DC
Howard University is a private, federally chartered historically black research university in Washington, D.C.
Howard University‘s main campus is located in the Shaw neighborhood of the nation’s capital and spans 256 acres. The architectural style of this historically Black research university was influenced by Albert Cassell, who was the university architect and also headed the architecture department. Cassell designed several popular buildings on the campus, such as the Founders Library and Frederick Douglass Memorial Hall.
Spelman College, Ranked #63 — Atlanta, GA
Spelman College is a private, historically Black, women’s liberal arts college in Atlanta, Georgia.
Spelman College was founded in 1881 under the name of Atlanta Baptist Female Seminary. Today, the HBCU is located on a beautiful 39-acre campus near downtown Atlanta, featuring red brick buildings in various styles. One of the most remarkable buildings is Rockefeller Hall, built in 1886 and listed on the National Record of Historic Places. Furthermore, the campus will soon have a new addition: the Studio Gang-designed Center for the Arts & Innovation is set to open in early 2025.
Tuskegee University, a land-grant historically Black university in Tuskegee, Alabama.
United States Senator Katie Britt has announced a $6.7 million investment to launch an aviation program at historically Black Tuskegee University in Alabama.
Currently undergoing accreditation approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, the Tuskegee Aviation Program aims to introduce the field of aviation to a new generation. The federal funds will allow the program to officially launch this fall once the review is complete.
Morehouse College — $100,000
Morehouse College is a private, historically black men’s liberal arts (HBCU) college in Atlanta, GA.
Sage, an accounting, financial, human resources, and payroll technology company, has issued a $100,000 grant to Morehouse College, a historically Black educational institution in Atlanta, Georgia. The gift will establish an entrepreneurship course training students to succeed as business owners through a technology-focused lens.
Clark Atlanta University — $630,000
Clark Atlanta University is a private, Methodist, historically black research university in Atlanta, Georgia.
Historically Black Clark Atlanta University has been awarded $630,000 in federal funding to improve public safety on campus. The new funds will be used to upgrade the university’s security camera system, create a video integration communication center, replace emergency call boxes on campus, and support other schools within the Atlanta University Center Consortium.
North Carolina Central University — $2.1 Million
North Carolina Central University, is a public historically black university in Durham, North Carolina.
The National Science Foundation has awarded over $2.1 million to historically Black North Carolina Central University to increase diversity in the geoscience fields. The university will use the funding to recruit students to explore the field of geosciences by taking one or two graduate-level courses. Additionally, the grant will train students to address environmental problems relevant to their communities.
Alabama State University — $450,000
Alabama State University is a public historically black university in Montgomery, Alabama.
Historically Black Alabama State University has received a $450,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to support research into nanoparticle-modified polymeric materials used in several biomedical applications. The project aims to develop safer processes for creating these materials utilizing 3D-printing methods and plasma processing.
Congratulations to all the HBCUs for these outstanding contributions!
Alabama A&M University plans to extend an offer to purchase the campus of Birmingham-Southern College and operate it as the Birmingham branch of the university, which is based in Huntsville.
Dr. Shannon Reeves, Vice President of Governmental Affairs and External Relations at Alabama A&M, said the university is conducting due diligence to prepare to extend an offer.
BSC, a private, liberal arts college with roots reaching back 168 years, announced in March that it would close on May 31 after efforts to obtain a loan from the state Legislature failed.
Alabama A&M University leadership says the move would help the growing college expand into one of its primary student markets and be a boon for the surrounding community.
BSC issued a brief statement Monday in response to a request for comment about Alabama A&M’s plans.“Birmingham-Southern College is having conversations with several interested parties about the sale of the campus,” said Virginia Loftin, BSC vice president for advancement and communications.
Reeves said Alabama A&M began conversations with BSC President Daniel Coleman immediately after BSC announced it was closing. Reaves said that if things fall into place and an offer is accepted by the BSC Board of Trustees and approved by the A&M Board, the campus would become Alabama A&M University at Birmingham.
Birmingham is our market,” Reeves told Alabama Daily News on Tuesday.
“We believe that we are the best fit for the campus and that community.”
Reeves said Alabama A&M sent a team of leaders in academics, student affairs, facilities, and finance to the BSC campus a few weeks ago for due diligence.
“In the coming weeks we’re looking to make a formal offer to the board at Birmingham-Southern for consideration,” Reeves said.
Reeves said the goal would be to retain some of the BSC faculty and academic programs along with academic programs that A&M would bring.
Alabama A&M is seeking some state funding to help with the purchase. The Legislature is still working on the state education budget and related spending bills for the upcoming fiscal year. Reaves said Alabama A&M is growing, with an all-time high enrollment of 6,600 and its largest-ever freshman class of more than 2,100.
“Our numbers are up,” he said. “Our concern is trying to house these students. We’re projected to go over 7,000 in the fall. So the demand for our academic offerings and what we’re doing at Alabama A&M, the demand for students is there.”
Reeves said the university has a strong relationship with Birmingham, home of the annual Magic City Classic football game between A&M and Alabama State University. Ten percent of A&M’s students are from Birmingham, he said, and Jefferson County has more A&M alumni than any other county, he said.
“An Alabama A&M campus would be important as the first public HBCU in Birmingham,” Reeves said. Jefferson County is home to Miles College, a private HBCU located in Fairfield.
Miles College adjusted its application deadlines to accommodate BSC students after BSC announced it was closing. Miles College President Bobbie Knight said in late March the college had no formal plan to pursue that BSC campus but did not rule it out.
If Alabama A&M buys BSC, Reeves said the plan is to maintain ties to the alumni and the long history of the college.
“We’re not going to come in and wipe away the legacy of Birmingham-Southern,” Reaves said “It will be well recognized. It is a part of the fabric of that community. So you want alums of Birmingham Southern to still come back annually and have class reunions and the like.”
BSC’s enrollment dropped below 700 this year amid doubts about the college being able to continue to operate. Reeves said he believes Alabama A&M could boost enrollment to 1,000 in a year and 3,500 after five years. He said he believes Alabama A&M could reinvigorate the surrounding neighborhoods as well as the 192-acre campus.
“Our plan is for it to be a full-service, robust opportunity where students can have a great four-year education and benefit from graduate programs that we have in Huntsville as well,” Reeves said.
University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff has announced its new women’s basketball coach after the departure of Dawn Thornton, who has transitioned to head the Alabama A&M women’s program.
The Golden Lions have appointed Erica Leak, a former WNBA draft pick and home-state prodigy, as their new head coach.
“First, I would like to thank God for orchestrating the perfect timing [and] the perfect place to begin my college coaching career,” said Leak to begin her opening remarks during her introductory press conference.
— 𝐆𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐋𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐀𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 (@UAPBLionsRoar) April 25, 2024
The 2005 WNBA Draftee will begin her era with the Golden Lions Women’s Basketball as the program’s 10th head coach. With Leak’s being drafted at the highest level of women’s basketball in the (WNBA) and several opportunities to coach on the collegiate level, Coach Leak felt that the timing was now.
“Upon my arrival to campus, it felt like home, like family, it felt right.”
Leak was a standout guard who was the number one high school recruit coming out of Arkansas in the 2001 class. She committed to Louisiana Tech to play all four years, leading the team to the NCAA tournament each year.
The Arkansas-born player averaged 11.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.2 steals in 112 career games. She was named to two All-WAC teams, two WAC All-Defensive teams, and two WAC All-Tournament teams.
“I am grateful to Athletic Director Chris Robinson and Chancellor Laurence Alexander for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading the Golden Lion program. I am excited to bring my competitive edge, energy, and winning spirit to this team and strive for success both on and off the court with my players for many years to come.”
Leak then transitioned to the pro level, where she was selected for the second round of the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics.
Leak was born and raised in Wheatley, Arkansas. Her family has a history of producing standout Division I basketball players, including her brother Jason Smith (who played for Ole Miss) and her nephew Carl Baker (who played for Arkansas), and my sister Angela Gardner. Furthermore, she has four siblings who have all graduated from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
Her most recent coaching experience came as the head coach of the West Memphis High School girl’s basketball team.
“I will take my knowledge and experience to instill the spirit of excellence into this team.”
“Players will understand and respect the rich, historic tradition, and they will play with pride. They will understand what it means to put that jersey on with UAPB across their chest, and they will know it’s bigger than them. They will play for the ones that came before them. We will strive for academic excellence and be on the path for career success. They will also understand the importance of giving back and serving their community, knowing that serving someone other than yourself is very important.”
Leak received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Louisiana Tech University in 2005 and her Master of Arts in Athletic Administration from Concordia University in 2023. She is happily married to Antonio and has five children – daughters Nia, Tyra, Laila, Demi, and a son named Jace.
