cal state, 10M, university, scholarships, Black, Students

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 20, 2023

Cal State University Makes $10M Investment Toward Black Student Success

The Cal State University system is putting its money – $10 million, to be specific – where its Black students are, to invest in their success through their degree programs.

After a data study by CSU’s Graduation Initiative concluded that Black students were the most impacted by low student success and retention rates, a work group was established last October to find methods to improve their academic experience.

The group surveyed stakeholders from all 23 campuses within the statewide school system in order to “identify strategies Cal State can take to improve retention and graduation among Black learners,” as noted by Inside Higher Ed. After holding listening sessions and creating subgroups for recruitment, academic success, campus culture, and role of faculty, the group summarized its research and conversations into a 13-point plan of recommendations to combat this gap in student success along racial lines.

Through strategy implementation detailed in a June report from the group, Cal State will work over the next three years to improve upon factors such as resources, infrastructure and policy to ensure they uplift and protect their Black student population. Specifically, they seek to create designated safe and affirming spaces for Black students on campus, clear anti-harassment guidelines, recruit Black personnel at a standard rate, and develop early outreach and marketing plans to encourage interest from Black scholars as well as promote CSU’s viability.

The curation of these plans and their installment will be a step forward in equitable inclusion, serving as “an invitation to higher education to put greater intentionality on aiding underserved and underrepresented students,” according to CSU Dominguez Hills president and co-chair of the systemwide group, Thomas Parham.

An implementation committee will allocate the $10 million in funding during the plan’s three-year rollout to the multiple campuses. It will be under the guidance and discretion of each campuses’ administration to decide which of the recommendations they choose to enact.

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

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 20, 2023

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

In a joyous announcement during its 34th annual commencement, Clark Atlanta University received a $1 million gift from Chick-fil-A.

The donation was bestowed upon the school at Panther Stadium in May by alumna Carol Waddy (’92), the director of community affairs for corporate social responsibility at the fast food chain.

The $1 million will be a part of the “historic” $250 million campaign for Clark Atlanta University to help fund students’ access, retention, and graduation efforts. It was shared on the HBCU’s Instagram profile.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Clark Atlanta University (@cau1988)

In a press release, CAU president Dr. George T. French Jr. praised the company’s commitment to uplifting the lives of its student body and their matriculation at the institution.

“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,” French said.

French paraphrased the school’s motto of “I’ll Find a Way or Make One” that evokes perseverance through strife. “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. At Clark Atlanta, finding a way or making a way is a community endeavor,” he said.

The funding will be released across a two-year span to “broaden and deepen its services” to better students’ experiences and resources, as well as contribute to technological, medical, and infrastructural advancements the HBCU hopes to pioneer.

The William F. Pickard Foundation also donated a hefty $2.5 million for scholarships and to rename a residence building to Beckwith Hall in honor of the donors.

How Jvonn Williams Became One of Gaming’s Biggest Talents

by Lauren Nutall

July 20, 2023

How Jvonn Williams Became One of Gaming’s Biggest Talents

Not many people can boast that their favorite after-school activity of playing video games became a legitimate career. But Jvonn Williams, 22, has managed to earn over six figures playing “Gears of War,” according to AfroTech. And he’s just getting started.

Like most people, Williams began playing video games at a young age. He was only 10 years old when he first picked up a controller. He started small, creating content. Later, he began to attend gaming events, conventions that allow players to compete in hopes of winning a cash prize.

Williams was 16 when he participated in his first contest, Game Battles, touted as the largest cross-platform esports service and offering over $10 million in prize money.

“…Just out of nowhere, I had to prove myself ’cause at that point you’re just known for being an online player and not known for ever actually competing in a legit setting, which is the lan events,” Williams told AfroTech. Williams ultimately placed in the top five, solidifying him as a formidable opponent and leaving with a sterling reputation.

Super important, always will be. Find confidence in yourself and others will be able to find confidence in you .. it’s also funny that you have a blue lock avi https://t.co/sjv9NICtRj

— Avexys (@_Avexys) June 19, 2023

Williams has earned over $100,000 from participating in “Gears of War” tournaments. Hs has also successfully created a brand for himself, generating revenue through his content.

“When you become the No. 1 in the world, you bring so much traffic to yourself that you start making money from other ways, you don’t only make money from playing in those prize tournaments,” he said. “You make money from just your name, your brand. Nobody could ever fire you from that content. There is a lot of longevity in that.”

While Williams regrets not monetizing his early content, his career ascent has been punctuated with support from different organizations. Shortly after his first competition, Williams received backing from PURE Gaming—a monthly salary of $1,500 to $2,000. At 19, he began working with the Black-owned esports organization Rise, which also offered him a monthly stipend.

Though Williams has made a career for himself at “Gears of War,” he has now set his sights on conquering “Apex Legends,” a game created by Respawn Entertainment. But that’s not his end game.

“I personally feel like competing at a professional level isn’t gonna last forever,” he said. “So yes, my ultimate goal is 100% to be a full-time content creator. If I can end up being there, I feel like I did everything right at that point.”

Williams also offered words of advice to aspiring gamers: “It’s better to monetize yourself and grow as much as you can in the content world because that can never be taken away from you, and that can grow to like literally anything.”

wealth, Arlan Hamilton, entrepreneur, money, women, black, academy

by Lauren Nutall

July 19, 2023

The Black Women Making Millions Academy To Meet In Atlanta

Learn how to build your wealth at this year’s “Real World. Real Women. Real WEALTH!”

The Black Women Making Millions Academy (BWMMA) is headed to Atlanta to host the conference, which aims to supply women of color with business need-to-knows and advice on how to best succeed in a gendered industry.

On August 19, 2023, Black female entrepreneurs from all over Atlanta will convene to discuss how they can scale their companies and what tools they need to further develop their business acumen.

Sponsored by JP Morgan, the conference will feature several workshops, a panel discussion, an opportunity for participants to pitch, a mixer, and other surprises. JP Morgan bankers will also be present to share how to use all the benefits that come with your business account.

The conference will offer various tools so that budding entrepreneurs are equipped with the practical skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BWMMA (@blackwomenmakingmillions)

The event will also include a slate of speakers. Keynote speaker Arlan Hamilton will discuss how to get what you deserve in a world that makes it exceptionally hard to just that, and Mz. Skittlez will offer her advice on how to use marketing tools to increase online visibility and generate money.

Kendra Ferguson, Tera Carissa Hodges, Lynn Richardson, and Alicia Scott will share their wisdom on how to manage finances and reach your maximum potential. The founder and CEO of the Curls Beauty Brand, Mahisha Dellinger, will also be in attendance.

Every attendee will receive a Curls Beauty product and a goody bag valued at $150. The gathering will be held at Northyards Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA, 30313 on Saturday, August 19, 2023, from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Food and drinks will be provided. To register, visit here.

OC Allen, Rashad Burgess, vow, renewal, LGBTQ+, LGBTQ, Pride, Lavish

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 19, 2023

Bishop O.C. Allen Hosts Lavish Atlanta Vow Renewal With Husband

Bishop Oliver Clyde Allen and husband Rashad Burgess may have gotten married 20 years ago, but the vow renewal of their wildest dreams occurred on July 16, 2023.

In a ceremony for the ages, the lavish affair was held with over 600 guests in at Southern luxury hotel, The Whitley, in a northern suburb of Atlanta. The pair was dressed in custom tuxedos of gold and white by “fashion designer to the stars” Octavious Terry, as they renewed their vows to one another and their family with their two children beside them.

Allen told People that it “meant the world” to bask in this event of love and commitment in front of their loved ones.

““In a world with so much division, we seek to be the bridge that brings people together through the power of love,” the husband and father shared.

The power couple, a pioneer in Black LGBTQ+ religious spaces, built their church in 2005 to provide a home where everyone could partake in praise and worship without feeling unwelcomed or shame. Allen is the senior pastor and founder of Vision Cathedral of Atlanta.

Of the church’s mission, Allen told Today that Black people sought to forge their own space of refuge and religious guidance when white LGBTQ+ spaces did not provide the “solace” needed.

Judge Glenda Hatchett officiated the union. The reception continued on the theme of royal extravagance. Multiple ballrooms were used for the event featuring gold tables with an assortment of flowers, candles, and rose petals to match the color palette. Guests were dressed in “all-white haute couture.”

“We were both excited and emotional, especially when they opened the doors to the ceremony, and we saw all of our family and friends there to celebrate our 20 years of marriage,” Allen shared.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 19, 2023

Dionne Warwick’s Anticipated Biopic And Gift Book On The Horizon

Dionne Warwick, 2023 Kennedy Center nominee and gospel music icon, is releasing a new gift book in collaboration with Harper Celebrate. The tentatively titled What the World Needs Now: Messages of Love and Hope (But No Advice Cause No One Listens Anyway) is scheduled to be released in January 2025.

Readers of the book will be treated to “heartfelt, humorous and wisdom-filled stories” that Ms. Warwick recalls from her decades-long professional career and enriched personal life. The full-color book hopes to inspire positivity to all who engage by including affirmations and “classic Dionne-isms.”

In a press release shared by SoulBounce, the legendary singer spoke about the chance to impart some of the understanding and savviness she’s developed over the years,

“Harper Celebrate is giving me an opportunity to give you an insight into my feelings about love, joy, hope and inspiration. Some quite serious and most with a touch of humor. I’m excited to share with all of you!”

Harper Celebrate is under global publisher HarperCollins Focus. The gift book imprint’s Vice President, Michael Aulisio, spoke of his excitement at partnering with the world-renowned artist and six-time Grammy winner.

“Dionne is an iconic figure in American music and culture,” Aulisio said.

“We’re thrilled that she’s bringing her distinctive voice to the page. Her signature sophistication, poignancy, and wit is electric.”

The news comes on the heels of the recent announcement that she will be honored by the Kennedy Center for her achievements in the musical arts. Warwick was “exceptionally happy” to be a part of this year’s cohort, posting to social media to confirm the award and relay her joy.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dionne Warwick (@therealdionnew)

With a new biopic starring Teyana Taylor also in the works, Dionne Warwick’s storied career is embarking on a new era where she will continue to be celebrated and praised for her global impact.

Brittney Griner, return, WNBA, Basketball, court, Russia, captive, all star

by Daniel Johnson

July 19, 2023

Brittney Griner Shines Bright In WNBA All-Star Game

Brittney Griner shined in her return to the WNBA All-Star Game, posting 18 points, 12 boards, and two blocks, not to mention two dunks that electrified the Las Vegas crowd.

Griner was clearly emotional during her first All-Star appearance since her 10-month detainment in Russia. Before the game began and the teams were introduced, the crowd went wild when her name was called, and she placed her hand on her chest.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ESPN (@espn)

Postgame, Griner told ESPN, “What you see on the court is fun, but in the locker room before the game, that’s where all the little moments that you take away always happen.”

Griner was involved in the game’s biggest moments. Her first bucket was the one she’s been known for since her high school days at Houston’s Nimitz High School: a signature one-hand flush. She seemed to enjoy every second of the game, often flashing a huge grin as she moved up and down the court.

It’s fitting that Griner was the centerpiece of the game, as just a year ago she was the heartbeat of everything the WNBA did during her detainment in Russia. The league and its players dedicated the 2022 season to Griner, and many players kept in as much contact as they were allowed, often sending the 6’8 center emails through an account her agent had set up.

It also follows that Griner was the first pick of New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart, who in addition to compiling another MVP-caliber season is organizing a league of her own.

Post-Griner detainment, the WNBA moved to create a prioritization rule requiring players to return from their overseas teams before the season start date of May 19. This year, players were fined for missing the deadline; starting 2024, they will face possible suspension from play.

A big part of the reason basketball stars are willing to travel abroad to play is that they can make three times their WNBA supermax salary overseas. Stewart and Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier hope to bridge that finance gap with a 3-on-3 league based in Miami that will reportedly pay players close to their current league salaries in the offseason.

Griner was asked about her potential involvement in the league ahead of the All-Star Game. “Well, I’m never going overseas again, so I think I’m free,” Griner said, laughing. “But I think it’s amazing what they’re doing. Whether I play in it or not, I’m definitely going to be around and watching and being there.”

Teen Who Beat Sickle Cell Disease Headed To Harvard University To Help Others

by Sharelle B. McNair

July 19, 2023

Teen Who Beat Sickle Cell Disease Headed To Harvard University To Help Others

Hanif Mouehla was just 8-years-old when he was diagnosed with sickle cell disease. Now 17, Mouehla has been inspired to care for others like him. He’s headed to Harvard University to study pre-med to help others facing this deadly disease, People reports.

The sickle cell survivor and recent graduate of Northern Valley Regional High School in Old Tappan, New Jersey, says his future studies will help him pay it forward.

“I would say that from a young age, I was strictly focused on medicine and becoming a doctor,” Mouehla said. “Watching the medical center as a whole, that was something I really wanted to emulate and caused me to want to choose medicine, specifically being a hematologist.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Face2Face Africa (@face2faceafrica)

The young scholar’s survival story started years ago when he found himself in ICU at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in New York. Mouehla’s sickle cell condition was worsening and doctors placed him in a coma after both of his lungs collapsed. He spent six weeks in the hospital; doctors weren’t sure if he would survive, giving him a 20% chance.

Soon an experimental stem cell transplant would saved Mouehla and give him a new perspective on life.

Ten years later, he reconnected with the pediatric hematology-oncology specialist who treated him. Dr. Mitchell Cairo became the teen’s boss as he worked in Cairo’s research lab in 2022 to find a cure for sickle cell.

The inherited blood disorder affects an estimated 70,000 to100,000 Americans—with 1 in 13 African-Americans diagnosed each year.

Mouehla is currently free of sickle cell disease, according to Face2Face Africa, after receiving the familial haploidentical stem cell transplant from his mother, Khuraira Musa.

“It’s kind of an indescribable feeling because, on top of seeing somebody sort of just resume their normal life, they’re now kicking in the high gear and taking on additional stress to make a difference for the next generation,” Cairo said.

by Derek Major

July 19, 2023

Former Tuskegee University Quarterback Aaron James Gets ‘Head Coach Status’

Aaron James is nothing short of a legend at Tuskegee University. James, who spent four years as a Golden Tigers quarterback, compiled a 42-5 record of the most wins in the school’s history.

Now, James, who led Tuskegee to an undefeated 12-0 season in 2000, will lead the university from the sidelines as its new head coach. He is taking over for Reginald Ruffin, who is now the university’s athletic director.

The two men have a close relationship. Ruffin named James the Golden Tigers’ head coach in waiting last season when Ruffin led the team to an 8-3 record and the SIAC championship game. Before that, Ruffin spent 11 years at fellow HBCU Miles College as the head coach; James served as Ruffin’s offensive coordinator and quarterback coach at Miles for nine years. That relationship is one of the biggest reasons why Ruffin knows James will continue the Golden Tigers’ tradition of winning on the gridiron.

“It’s been tough, but any time you get an opportunity [to have] Aaron James becoming the leader of the head of the football program — Tuskegee alum, Tuskegee grad. All-world quarterback,” Ruffin said at Wednesday’s SIAC Media Day, according to HBCU Gameday. “Won a lot of accolades as a quarterback. Was a winner. Been with me so long as at Miles College as my offensive coordinator/position coach — then elevate him up into a position of being a head coach, man, that means the world to me.”

James, who was just introduced as Tuskegee’s head coach, admitted leading his alma mater hadn’t quite sunk in.

“Everything hasn’t soaked in yet,” he said. “I guess when game day — opening game day… I guess the jitters and all of that will come into play.”

James hasn’t shied away from the expectations. Tuskegee is the winningest football program in HBCU history with 707 wins, by his estimation, and he knows his job is to add to that total. He’ll get his first chance on Sept. 3, 2023, against Fort Valley State at the Red Tails Classic. Other notable games this season include the Morehouse-Tuskegee Classic on Oct. 7, and the Homecoming game against Edward Waters University on Oct. 14.

Thanks to several facility upgrades to the Golden Tigers’ home field, Cleve L. Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium, the team will now play on turf instead of grass. James says the university is currently working on getting stadium lights so the team can play night games.

by Sharelle B. McNair

July 19, 2023

Tania Kinsella Steps Into New Role As NYPD’s First Black Woman First Deputy Commissioner

The New York City Police Department has a new first deputy commissioner by the name of Tania Kinsella.

Mayor Eric Adams announced Kinsella as the first woman of color to hold this position on July 17, 2023, NBC New York reports. As a 20-year veteran of the department, Kinsella has served in several positions including captain, commanding officer, deputy inspector, and inspector.

Adams is shaking things up with the city’s administration. He recently announced Edward Caban as the first Latino police commissioner in NYPD history. Adams says Kinsella’s appointment is the “American dream” while calling her leadership style unparalleled.

“Why is her appointment so significant? The NYPD has a great crime-fighting profile, but it has an image problem,” Adams said. “When you look at the department you don’t see youthfulness, you don’t see diversity at the top. You don’t see the richness….people should see the possibilities.”

The Staten Island native is the youngest daughter of Jamaican and Guyanese immigrants. Her career follows the footsteps of her mother who became a prominent leader in Staten Island’s 120th precinct. Most recently, Kinsella was executive officer at the office of the chief of patrol, a position she held for one year.

In a statement, Kinsella said outside of being a mother, “working as a police officer is the most deeply rewarding job I can imagine.”

“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to do even more for the city I love,” she said, as reported by SI Live. “From the very first moment I joined the NYPD 20 years ago, it was love at first sight, because being a police officer is about so much more than keeping people safe. It’s about building community, helping others from all walks of life, and making a difference in people’s lives, especially those in need.”

My full statement on the appointment of Commissioner Edward Caban and First Deputy Commissioner and proud Staten Islander Tania Kinsella: https://t.co/K3rQc1oHIu pic.twitter.com/MZ9G4zujfc

— Michael E. McMahon (@StatenIslandDA) July 17, 2023

Local leaders, including District Attorney Michael E. McMahon and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, were thrilled to hear about Kinsella’s appointment.