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Tag: HBCU

  • SC State Faces Funding Threat Over Canceled Speech

    Things are heating up for South Carolina State University (SCSU) after they decided to pull the plug on Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette’s invitation to speak at the May 2026 commencement. This move has sparked a significant backlash from some Republican lawmakers, who are now threatening the university’s funding.

    Why Was the Speech Canceled?

    The university stated that the invitation was withdrawn following student protests and what officials described as “credible safety threats.” In essence, SCSU decided to play it safe, prioritizing a secure environment for everyone involved.

    University President Alexander Conyers released a statement explaining the decision. He expressed gratitude to Lt. Gov. Evette for accepting the invitation but emphasized that the university ultimately chose to “move in a different direction” out of “an abundance of caution for safety.”

    Student Concerns and Political Stances

    The student protests weren’t just a general outcry; they were specifically aimed at Lt. Gov. Evette’s political positions. Students voiced strong opposition to her views on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), abortion rights, and her support for former President Donald Trump. Many felt that commencement speakers should inspire graduates without pushing a political agenda.

    Lt. Gov. Evette, who is also campaigning for governor, told Fox News Digital that she was informed the cancellation was due to security concerns. She also pointed out that this situation seems to be part of a larger trend where conservative speakers face pushback on college campuses. She noted that the invitation was extended months prior, and she hadn’t even shared her planned remarks yet.

    Lawmakers React with Funding Threats

    The response from some Republican lawmakers was swift and sharp. Members of the South Carolina House Freedom Caucus called the university’s decision “shameful” and “inexcusable.” They penned a letter arguing that if a statewide elected official can’t speak safely on campus, then the university’s public funding should be seriously reconsidered.

    These lawmakers urged state budget writers to potentially exclude SCSU from the next appropriations cycle. This dispute really highlights the ongoing national debate about free speech, student activism, and the influence of politics on higher education.

    • South Carolina State University canceled Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette’s commencement speech.
    • The decision was based on student protests and reported “credible safety threats.”
    • Students opposed Evette’s political stances on DEI, abortion, and support for Trump.
    • Republican lawmakers are threatening to cut the university’s funding.
    • The situation underscores national tensions over campus free speech and activism.

    While the lawmakers’ threats are serious, it’s still uncertain if they will actually follow through with cutting funding. However, this incident has definitely intensified the conversation about balancing political expression with campus security at publicly funded institutions.

    What’s your take on this situation? Should campus safety concerns override a speaker’s invitation, or is this a matter of political censorship? Let us know in the comments!

  • Howard University Mourns Two Graduating Students

    Imagine the excitement: graduation is just days away, a culmination of years of hard work at a prestigious institution like Howard University. Now, picture the devastating blow as the community grapples with the sudden loss of two bright students, both poised to walk across the stage next week. It’s a heartbreaking scenario that has sent ripples of grief through the Bison family.

    A Community in Shock

    The university is reeling from the tragic news of two students who passed away unexpectedly. One of those students, 21-year-old Sollomon Buckhanon Crowder, a Computer Science major, was reported missing on April 28th. His last known location was the campus’s Blackburn Center.

    His mother, Dr. Stephanie Buckhanon Crowder, shared the devastating update on social media after an urgent plea for help. The D.C. police homicide unit was involved in the investigation, and the news of Sollomon’s passing has prompted an outpouring of sorrow and support from those who knew him and the wider Howard community.

    Another Beloved Scholar Lost

    Tragically, Sollomon’s death is not the only loss the Howard University graduating class of 2026 is facing. Just hours after the news about Sollomon broke, the Graduate School announced the passing of Dr. Jimisha Relerford. She was mere days away from receiving her Doctorate of Philosophy.

    Dr. Relerford was a distinguished scholar, focusing on African diaspora literature, African American rhetorics, and Black women’s writing. She had a deep connection to Howard, having earned both her Bachelor of Arts and her Doctorate there, and also served as a first-year writing instructor. Her contributions to her field and her dedication to her students leave a profound legacy.

    A Legacy of Scholarship and Service

    Despite the immense sadness, Dr. Relerford will be posthumously awarded her Doctor of Philosophy degree on May 10, 2026. Her intellectual contributions, commitment to her students, and service to the university are remembered with deep respect and will be profoundly missed by her colleagues and all who knew her.

    The causes of death for both Sollomon and Dr. Relerford have not yet been publicly determined. The university community is united in grief, supporting the families and friends of these two promising individuals during this incredibly difficult time.

    This is a deeply sorrowful time for Howard University. What are your thoughts on how communities can best support each other through such profound loss? Share your reflections in the comments below.

  • SC State Faces Defunding Over Lt. Gov. Evette Controversy

    Talk about a commencement ceremony gone wrong! South Carolina State University, an esteemed Historically Black College and University (HBCU), is now facing the threat of being defunded by state legislators. The reason? They dared to protest an appearance by Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, whose anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) stance clashed with the values of the students and the institution.

    The Controversy Unfolds

    The drama began when SC State University President Alexander Conyers decided to cancel Lt. Gov. Evette’s commencement speech. Citing concerns for student and faculty safety, Conyers explained that the graduation ceremony should be a moment to celebrate students, not a platform for divisive political ideologies. He even extended an invitation for a more productive conversation at another time.

    However, Evette didn’t take the cancellation lightly. Instead of accepting the decision, she adopted a victim mentality, labeling the students a “woke mob” and suggesting a conspiracy was behind their objections. She doubled down on her anti-DEI platform, questioning why security concerns were being cited to “silence voices,” seemingly ignoring historical context and the potential for protest to disrupt a celebratory event.

    Legislators Threaten Funding

    In response to Evette’s reaction, a group of nine state representatives took a drastic step. They sent a letter to the Chairman of the House Ways and Means committee, requesting that SC State University be completely removed from the state budget draft. Their reasoning? That state tax dollars shouldn’t fund an institution where the Lt. Governor feels unwelcome due to political differences.

    This move is seen by many as a retaliatory measure, flipping the narrative to serve an anti-Black agenda. The representatives—Gil Gatch, Thomas Beach, Jackie Terribile, Sarita Edgerton, Josiah Magnuson, John McCravy, Melissa Oremus, and Cally Forrest Jr.—are essentially holding the university’s financial future hostage over a canceled speech.

    Student Protests and Evette’s Stance

    The controversy didn’t arise out of nowhere. Days before the commencement, students, faculty, and the wider community voiced strong opposition to Evette’s invitation. Marches, sit-ins, and a viral social media campaign, including a petition with over 20,000 signatures, highlighted her political stances and campaign affiliations as being antithetical to celebrating HBCU excellence.

    Evette, however, remained defiant. She claimed that she and other Republican leaders had done more for HBCUs than anyone else, while simultaneously accusing professors of “indoctrinating” students. She embraced the label of a champion against “radical DEI scams,” seemingly welcoming the backlash as validation.

    Broader Implications

    This situation goes beyond just a commencement speech. Evette has also called for an end to tenure, which could threaten academic freedom for professors who don’t align with MAGA talking points. The controversy highlights a larger struggle over diversity initiatives and political influence in education. It raises questions about whether imposing certain political viewpoints is acceptable for politicians, but demanding a celebration of their own achievements is not for students.

    The threat to defund SC State University also puts the future of the institution and fair representation for the state’s Black voters, who make up a significant portion of the population, in jeopardy. This controversy underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Black communities in South Carolina and beyond.

    What do you think about the threat to defund SC State University? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • 15 HBCUs Unite for Elite Research Status

    Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have consistently shattered expectations, and now, a powerful coalition of 15 institutions is embarking on a historic mission. They’ve launched the Association of HBCU Research Institutions (AHRI) with a clear goal: to elevate their research capabilities and achieve elite R1 status, positioning themselves as leaders in American innovation.

    A Declaration of Leadership in Research

    AHRI is more than just an announcement; it’s a declaration. Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, interim president of Howard University and interim president of AHRI, stated that this coalition signifies HBCUs are not just contributors but leaders in a new era of discovery. The group aims to expand institutional capacity and funding to tackle society’s most pressing challenges.

    The ultimate target is the Carnegie Classification’s Research 1 (R1) designation, the highest tier for research activity. This status unlocks significant federal funding, enhances prestige, and attracts top-tier faculty and students. Currently, only Howard University holds this distinction among HBCUs, while 14 AHRI members possess R2 status (High Research Activity).

    Founding Members and Collaborative Power

    The founding members of AHRI represent a formidable force in higher education: Howard University, Clark Atlanta University, Delaware State University, Florida A&M University, Hampton University, Jackson State University, Morgan State University, North Carolina A&T State University, Prairie View A&M University, South Carolina State University, Southern University, Tennessee State University, Texas Southern University, Virginia State University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Together, these institutions already account for half of all competitively awarded federal research funding among HBCUs in critical areas like health, science, justice reform, and economic development.

    This collaborative effort is bolstered by a partnership with the Association of American Universities (AAU), a prestigious organization dedicated to academic research. AHRI’s offices will be housed at the AAU headquarters in Washington, D.C., fostering closer ties and shared goals. Dr. Ruth Simmons, a former president of Brown University and Smith College, highlighted that HBCUs have historically been excluded from mainstream research conversations, making AHRI a pivotal new chapter.

    Addressing Overlooked Research Areas

    HBCU researchers have long been at the forefront of investigating issues critical to Black communities – topics often overlooked by predominantly white institutions. From specific health disparities to economic inequities, HBCUs bring a unique and vital perspective to research. This initiative ensures these crucial areas receive the attention and resources they deserve.

    AHRI formally incorporated in June 2023 and has already held its inaugural board meeting and a research symposium. The coalition is issuing a strong call to action for government, corporate, and philanthropic partners to invest in this ambitious endeavor, recognizing the immense potential of HBCU research and innovation.

    What are your thoughts on this historic push by HBCUs to achieve elite research status? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Full Ride Scholarships for Black Men in Medicine

    Imagine pursuing a career in medicine without the crushing weight of student debt. That dream is becoming a reality for young Black men thanks to an incredible initiative by Tennessee State University (TSU) and Meharry Medical College. They’re offering full-ride scholarships to aspiring physicians and dentists, aiming to boost representation in the medical field.

    Honoring a Medical Pioneer: The Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. Scholarship

    This groundbreaking scholarship fund is named in honor of the late Dr. Levi Watkins Jr., a distinguished TSU alumnus and cardiac surgeon. Dr. Watkins made history with the first internal defibrillator implantation, a true revolution in medicine. This endowment seeks to continue his legacy by removing financial obstacles that often deter talented underrepresented students from pursuing advanced medical careers.

    The goal is to streamline the educational path. Instead of the traditional eight-year route, scholars can complete their pre-med studies at TSU in three years and then transition to a four-year program at Meharry Medical College, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, or the Frist College of Medicine. This accelerated seven-year curriculum means less time and money spent on education.

    Who Qualifies for This Amazing Opportunity?

    The applicant pool is currently quite small, meaning this is a fantastic opportunity for high-achieving students! To be eligible for the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. Endowed Scholarship, you need to be passionate about the medical field. You’ll also need to meet some specific academic benchmarks:

    • Minimum GPA of 3.5
    • ACT score of 28 or an SAT score of 1300

    This scholarship isn’t just about covering tuition; it’s about investing in the whole professional journey. Funds also support crucial elements like the White Coat Ceremony and specialized physician shadowing, helping scholars build their professional identity from day one.

    Proven Success and Future Impact

    The impact of this scholarship is already evident. Scholars have been able to dedicate themselves fully to their rigorous coursework, leading to a remarkable 61% increase in the Biology Department’s graduation rate at TSU. In fact, the inaugural cohort produced the university’s top two graduates in 2024, both achieving perfect 4.0 GPAs!

    This initiative is more than just financial aid; it’s a strategic investment in diversifying the future of medicine and ensuring that talented young Black men have the resources they need to succeed. It’s a powerful step towards greater equity in healthcare.

    Are you or someone you know a high-achieving young Black man interested in medicine? Learn more about the Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. Scholarship and share this incredible opportunity!

  • SC Legislators Threaten Funding for SC State Over Lt. Gov. Disinvitation

    A decision by South Carolina State University (SC State) to disinvite Lt. Governor Pamela Evette from serving as its commencement speaker has ignited a fierce backlash from state legislators. A group of lawmakers is now threatening to pull all state funding from the historically Black university (HBCU) in response to the move.

    Legislators Denounce Decision as Political Capitulation

    In a formal letter addressed to Chairman Bannister, a coalition of legislators, including members of the South Carolina Freedom Caucus, expressed their strong disapproval. They characterized the university’s decision as a capitulation to political pressure and a sign that conservative viewpoints are unwelcome on campus. The nine signatories argued that if a sitting Lt. Governor cannot be welcomed or have her safety guaranteed on a state-funded campus, then it’s time to “defund and reevaluate” the institution’s support.

    The legislators have officially requested that no funding for SC State University be included in the upcoming state budget. Their statement read, in part, “There is no reason why state tax dollars should continue to fund a state institution where not all South Carolinians are welcome. If the Lt. Governor of South Carolina is unwelcome due to different political ideologies and an inability to keep her safe, it is time to defund and reevaluate.”

    Student Protests Cited as Reason for Disinvitation

    The university had initially invited Lt. Gov. Evette to address the class of 2026. However, the announcement was met with significant demonstrations from students on campus. Protesters specifically cited Evette’s political stances, particularly her opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as reasons why they believed she was not a suitable speaker for an HBCU.

    SC State President Alexander Conyers stated that the primary factor in rescinding the invitation was the university’s inability to guarantee a safe and celebratory environment for the graduates. While acknowledging the value of free speech, the potential for substantial disruption during the commencement ceremony led to the decision to seek a different speaker.

    A Contentious Political Standoff

    This situation highlights a growing tension between political ideologies and the missions of educational institutions, particularly HBCUs. The legislators’ threat to defund SC State underscores the high stakes involved in these cultural and political debates. The university now faces the challenge of navigating these pressures while upholding its commitment to its students and its role in higher education.

    What are your thoughts on the legislators’ threat to defund SC State University? Do you believe political ideologies should influence commencement speaker choices? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Harvard Grants $1.05M to Boost HBCU Research Network

    In a landmark move to foster academic advancement, Harvard University has awarded a substantial $1.05 million grant to establish and strengthen a research network for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This initiative aims to enhance research infrastructure and capacity across 15 institutions, paving the way for greater innovation and impact.

    Introducing the AHRI Coalition

    Formally launched on April 29, 2026, at Howard University, the Association of Historically Black Colleges and Universities Research Institutions (AHRI) is a new coalition designed to bring HBCUs together. The goal is to amplify their collective efforts in research, innovation, and scholarly impact. This collaboration marks a significant step towards breaking down historical isolation among these vital institutions.

    The funding, provided through Harvard’s ‘Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery’ (H&LS) Initiative, is specifically earmarked to help member institutions build robust research infrastructure. A key objective is to support their pursuit of R1 status, the highest designation for research activity according to the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

    Deepening Partnerships and Building Capacity

    Sara Naomi Bleich, Harvard’s vice provost for special projects, highlighted the initiative’s commitment to long-term partnerships. “Through this three-year grant to AHRI, the H&LS Initiative is deepening our commitment to developing enduring partnerships with HBCUs,” Bleich stated, as reported by The Harvard Gazette. “We are honored to leverage our expertise in research infrastructure and capacity-building to help further HBCU research excellence.”

    This grant directly addresses Recommendation Three from a 2022 report by the Presidential Committee on Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery, which advocated for sustained and deeper collaboration with HBCUs. Harvard’s Office of the Vice Provost for Research and Office for Sponsored Programs will provide crucial support, including enhancing research administration and compliance systems, offering guidance on grant management, and hosting HBCU staff for training.

    AHRI marks a powerful new chapter in the HBCU research landscape, bringing institutions that have too often worked in isolation into sustained collaboration with one another and with the country’s leading research universities. — Ruth Simmons, Senior Adviser to the President on HBCU Engagement at Harvard

    AHRI’s Strategic Vision and Founding Members

    AHRI is not only backed by Harvard’s significant grant but also by a strategic partnership with the Association of American Universities (AAU), which will share office space with the coalition. The organization’s core mission is to elevate HBCUs as leaders in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research, thereby expanding their policy influence and accelerating significant discoveries.

    Key goals include broadening funding opportunities, improving faculty recruitment, and increasing student access to research and career pathways. The founding members of AHRI represent a diverse group of institutions, including Howard University (the sole HBCU with R1 designation) and 13 R2 institutions like Clark Atlanta University, Delaware State University, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Hampton University, Jackson State University, Prairie View A&M University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

    Collectively, these AHRI institutions are responsible for half of all federal research funding allocated to HBCUs. They play a critical role in developing solutions across vital sectors such as health, science, education, justice reform, and economic development. Howard’s interim president, Wayne A. I. Frederick, hailed the launch as a “declaration that HBCUs are not only contributors to research and innovation, but also leaders shaping a new era of discovery, reimagining both the solutions and the systems that drive research.”

    What are your thoughts on Harvard’s investment in the AHRI coalition and its potential impact on HBCU research? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Philly Twins Top Class at Oldest HBCU

    Talk about a power duo! Twin sisters Tia and Jasmin Criss from Philadelphia have achieved something truly remarkable, graduating at the very top of their class from Cheyney University, the nation’s oldest historically Black college and university (HBCU). Tia has earned the title of valedictorian, while Jasmin is the salutatorian – a stunning accomplishment for any student, let alone siblings graduating together.

    A Surreal Achievement Fueled by Support

    The news came as a delightful shock to the sisters, who built their strong academic foundation at the Philadelphia High School for Girls. For Tia and Jasmin, the focus throughout their four years at Cheyney wasn’t on rankings or competition, but on consistency and lifting each other up. “It’s sort of surreal,” Tia Criss shared with CBS News Philadelphia. “We weren’t trying to achieve valedictorian or salutatorian — it just happened that way.”

    Born just three minutes apart, their shared drive for excellence was clearly evident. Their parents played a crucial role, instilling the discipline that propelled them not only in the classroom but also on the tennis court. This incredible achievement is a testament to their hard work and mutual support system.

    Distinct Paths, Shared Future

    As they prepare for their commencement ceremony on May 9th, the Criss twins are embarking on distinct yet connected career paths. Tia, the valedictorian, plans to utilize her analytical prowess in the insurance industry. Meanwhile, Jasmin, the salutatorian, is setting her sights on a creative future in marketing or fashion.

    But the sisterly bond remains strong! This fall, they will continue their academic journey together, beginning a Master of Business Administration program at West Chester University. This shared pursuit highlights their commitment to learning and growing, side-by-side.

    A Legacy of Dedication and Community

    This milestone is particularly poignant for the Criss family, as it follows the passing of their father, Lynn Criss III, in March. University leadership has lauded the twins’ journey as a perfect embodiment of the HBCU experience, emphasizing that their success is a result of unwavering dedication and the belief of their community.

    Dr. Lakiyah Chambers, Associate Dean of Students, praised their commitment, stating, “This is the product of working hard — dedication. You see that in the Criss twins. It is an amazing story.” Their achievement sets a high bar and inspires future scholars at this historic institution.

    • University: Cheyney University (Nation’s Oldest HBCU)
    • Valedictorian: Tia Criss
    • Salutatorian: Jasmin Criss
    • Future Plans: MBA at West Chester University
    • Key to Success: Consistency, Mutual Support, Parental Discipline

    What do you admire most about Tia and Jasmin Criss’s incredible achievement? Share your thoughts on their success and the importance of HBCUs in the comments below!

  • Twin Sisters Top Cheyney University Class

    Talk about a dynamic duo! Cheyney University is celebrating a truly remarkable achievement as twin sisters Tia and Jasmin Criss are set to graduate at the very top of their class. Earning the prestigious titles of valedictorian and salutatorian, these sisters have not only excelled academically but have done so side-by-side, making their accomplishment even more special.

    A “Surreal” Academic Triumph

    For Tia and Jasmin, who are just minutes apart in age, this incredible feat was described as “surreal.” They revealed that their focus wasn’t on chasing specific honors, but rather on their studies and supporting each other. “We weren’t trying to achieve valedictorian or salutatorian; it just happened that way,” Tia shared, highlighting their genuine dedication to learning.

    Having previously attended Philadelphia High School for Girls, the twins credit their parents for instilling a strong work ethic and the discipline needed to succeed. Their journey through university was fueled by consistent academic performance, mutual encouragement, and a healthy dose of “friendly competition” that pushed them both to excel.

    Different Paths, Shared Success

    University officials have lauded the twins’ success, with Associate Dean of Students Lakiyah Chambers calling it a testament to hard work and perseverance. While their academic paths have led them to the highest honors, their future career aspirations show their individual strengths. Tia is drawn to the analytical challenges of the insurance industry, while Jasmin aims to leverage her creativity in marketing or fashion.

    This inspiring achievement comes during a particularly emotional time for the family. The sisters’ father, Lynn Criss III, sadly passed away in March. They shared that his unwavering support and influence continue to be a driving force, and they believe he would be immensely proud of their accomplishments.

    Looking Ahead to Further Success

    Following their graduation ceremony on May 9th, Tia and Jasmin aren’t slowing down. They plan to continue their academic journey together at West Chester University, embarking on an MBA program in the fall. Their story is a powerful reminder that academic excellence and strong sibling partnerships can go hand-in-hand, proving that success can be a shared victory.

    What inspiring stories of sibling success have you encountered? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • SC State Rescinds Lt. Gov. Invite Amid Protests

    South Carolina State University President Alexander Conyers has rescinded the invitation for Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette to speak at the upcoming commencement ceremony. This decision follows two days of student protests and comes after Evette referred to the protesting students as a “woke mob.”

    President Stands With Students

    In a video posted to X, President Conyers was seen standing with his students, affirming their right to protest. He stated, “What I saw yesterday, what I saw today, was college students exercising their free rights… So how someone can confuse what happened, and perhaps because that person wasn’t here… I will admit you’ve done exactly what I did some 35 years ago as a student on these same grounds.”

    Conyers acknowledged that he couldn’t change what was said on social media but refused to let outsiders label the future generation as “thugs.” He invited anyone skeptical to visit the campus and see for themselves.

    Safety and Celebration as Priorities

    In a statement to WLTX, Conyers explained that the university has “decided to move in a different direction” for commencement. While Evette was initially chosen for her record as a business leader, the situation evolved into a safety concern. The university stated it will welcome Evette at a later date, emphasizing that “The safety and well-being of our students, families, faculty, staff and guests will always guide our decisions.” Commencement, he added, “should remain a moment of celebration focused on our graduates and their achievements.”

    Student Concerns and Evette’s Response

    The student protests, which gained support from figures like Bakari Sellers, centered on “morality issues.” One student expressed, “We’ve been here four, five years, and for commencement we should have someone who is going to celebrate us. How can someone who goes against everything we stand for and believe in, morality-wise, how can that person uplift me on my day of stepping into the real world?”

    Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Evette, who is also running for governor, continued to voice her stance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives on college campuses. Upon learning of the rescinded invitation, she issued a statement: “The fact that a speech had to be canceled for credible safety threats is exactly why we cannot give up the fight to end indoctrination and DEI on campuses once and for all. The root problem is professors who gin up feigned outrage at the detriment of their students, who they should be teaching to think critically. End tenure now!”

    What are your thoughts on South Carolina State University’s decision to rescind Lt. Gov. Evette’s invitation? Do you agree with the students’ concerns or Evette’s stance on DEI? Share your views in the comments below!