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Tag: HBCU Students

  • Carrie Everett, First HBCU Miss North Carolina, Dies at 24

    It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Carrie Everett, a true trailblazer who shattered barriers in the pageant world. Everett, who made history as the first student from an HBCU to be crowned Miss North Carolina, died on Easter Sunday after a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive form of gastric cancer. She was just 24 years old.

    A Historic Reign

    Everett, a student at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), captivated judges with her leadership, talent, and powerful advocacy during the 2024 Miss North Carolina pageant. Her victory was a monumental moment, proving that ambition and dreams can flourish regardless of background or institutional affiliation. She openly shared the financial hurdles she faced in pursuing pageantry, relying on community support to achieve her goal.

    Upon winning the crown, Everett expressed her desire for her achievement to inspire others. “I can be the first but not the last,” she told CBS 17, as reported by HBCU Gameday. “I want young women from all over the state and throughout the country attending HBCUs that this opportunity is for them.”

    Championing Equity in Pageantry

    During her reign, Everett dedicated herself to promoting equity within the pageant system. Her community service initiative, “We Need Equity to Build Communities,” aimed to break down barriers and encourage broader participation. She advocated for increased funding for wardrobe and accessibility, ensuring that aspiring contestants from diverse backgrounds could pursue scholarship opportunities.

    A Legacy of Inspiration

    Even as she battled her life-altering diagnosis of metastatic signet ring cell carcinoma, which she received in July 2025, Everett remained dedicated to her goals. She was pursuing a degree in vocal performance at NCCU, with plans to graduate in 2027. Her ambition, grace, and tenacity have left an indelible mark.

    NCCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon remembered Everett as a “trailblazer who shared her inspirational talent and leadership with so many.” The university mourns the loss of their “fallen eagle,” whose legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of students and aspiring leaders.

    How has Carrie Everett’s story inspired you? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below to celebrate her remarkable life and legacy.

  • HBCU Seniors Balance Eczema & Confidence

    Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition affecting millions, with Black individuals often experiencing greater prevalence, severity, and persistence. While eczema isn’t curable, managing flare-ups is possible. For college students, juggling classes, extracurriculars, and social life while managing eczema presents unique challenges. Here are three HBCU seniors who are mastering this balance with finesse:

    Briana Jones-Gill: The Broadcast Journalist

    Briana Jones-Gill, a senior broadcast journalism major at FAMU, spends significant time on camera and prioritizes looking her best. When eczema flares up on her legs and cheeks, she adapts her beauty routine. “When I’m going to be on camera, I want to make sure that I’m picture-perfect,” she shares. Her approach relies on a simple skincare routine with gentle products like Cetaphil Cleanser, toner, and moisturizer, emphasizing the importance of SPF to prevent sunburn on sensitive skin. Briana manages flare-ups with moisturizers and showers to keep affected areas clean, benefiting from a supportive family who also deals with eczema.

    Jayden Hall-Ingram: The Healthcare Advocate

    Jayden Hall-Ingram, a senior speech pathology major and psychology minor at North Carolina A&T, is passionate about healthcare advocacy. He experiences eczema flare-ups on his back and arms and has found the search for adequate dermatological care challenging, noting a scarcity of dermatologists knowledgeable about Black skin, especially in the South. “There aren’t enough good dermatologists for Black people,” he states. Jayden uses hypoallergenic products like African net sponges and Dove bar soap, followed by raw shea butter for moisture and PanOxyl cleanser with SPF for his face. He manages flare-ups with hydrocortisone but hopes his experiences will help improve outcomes for other Black individuals seeking medical care.

    Kaya Brown: The Business Major with a Gentle Routine

    FAMU senior Kaya Brown, a business and administration major, relies on prescription creams for her eczema, which typically flares on her face and elbow creases. She emphasizes the importance of a gentle beauty routine, using hypoallergenic foundation and avoiding heavily perfumed lotions, preferring Palmer’s Cocoa Butter and Lubriderm. While fragrances can be a guilty pleasure, she uses them sparingly, especially for her retail job with the Atlanta Braves, to avoid skin irritation. Kaya is looking ahead to grad school after finishing her senior year, all while keeping her skin clear.

    Key Takeaways for Managing Eczema

    These three HBCU seniors demonstrate that managing eczema while excelling in college is achievable. Key strategies include:

    • **Gentle Skincare:** Using hypoallergenic and fragrance-free products is crucial.
    • **Moisturization:** Regularly applying moisturizers, especially after cleansing, helps combat dryness.
    • **Sun Protection:** SPF is vital to prevent sunburn on sensitive, eczema-prone skin.
    • **Prescription Treatments:** Consulting a dermatologist for prescription creams can be highly effective for managing flare-ups.
    • **Seeking Support:** Leaning on family or peer support groups can provide valuable advice and emotional encouragement.
    • **Advocacy:** Patients must advocate for themselves in healthcare settings, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed thoroughly.

    What are your go-to strategies for managing eczema? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!