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Tag: Spelman

  • Zahara Jolie Graduates From Spelman College

    The graduation season is in full swing, and this year, a familiar face is celebrating a major milestone! Angelina Jolie’s daughter, Zahara Jolie, has officially earned her degree from the prestigious Spelman College, marking a significant achievement for the young scholar.

    The 21-year-old proudly walked across the stage on Sunday, May 17th, to receive her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, complete with a minor in Educational Studies. It was a moment filled with joy, tradition, and proud family support.

    A Proud Mother’s Watch

    Angelina Jolie was in attendance, beaming with pride as she watched her daughter accept her diploma. While Brad Pitt wasn’t present, the atmosphere was described as a grand celebration, with Zahara fully embracing all the Spelman traditions.

    When her name was called, Zahara was introduced as Zahara Marley Jolie, a name familiar to those who know she joined the Mu Pi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., at Spelman a few years back. This full-circle moment highlights her deep connection to the Spelman community.

    Family Ties and Shared Values

    Zahara’s journey at Spelman also reflects a broader pattern within her family. She, along with siblings Shiloh, Vivienne, and Maddox, have publicly embraced the Jolie surname, signaling a desire to forge their own identities. This personal growth is something Zahara herself has spoken about.

    Just weeks before her graduation, Zahara shared touching words about her mother at a sorority event. She described Angelina as her role model, emphasizing the values of kindness, helping others, and personal growth that were instilled in her. Zahara beautifully articulated how her mother showed her what it means to be a decent human being.

    An Unexpected Celebrity Friendship

    That same sorority event also led to a delightful celebrity crossover! Angelina Jolie was pictured alongside #RHOP star Gizelle Bryant at an Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., brunch. Both their daughters, Zahara Jolie and Angel Bryant, attend Spelman and are members of the same sorority, sparking an unexpected and charming mom-to-mom connection.

    The Future is Bright

    With her degree in psychology and a minor in educational studies, Zahara is well-equipped for a variety of impactful careers. Her active participation in community initiatives and leadership-focused sorority events throughout her time at Spelman suggests a future dedicated to advocacy, counseling, education, or nonprofit work.

    Congratulations to Zahara Marley Jolie and the entire Spelman College Class of 2026! The future is undoubtedly bright for this inspiring young graduate.

    What are your thoughts on Zahara Jolie’s graduation? Share your congratulations and favorite Spelman memories in the comments below!

  • Spelman College Addresses ‘Miss Spelman’ Co-Queen Controversy

    Spelman College recently made history by crowning its first-ever co-queens, Jillian Collier and Kinsley Wilson, after a scoring error led to a tie in the 43rd Miss Spelman Pageant. While the college administration initially presented the decision as a celebration of “sisterhood and grace,” the move has sparked significant debate within the HBCU community regarding the pageant’s integrity and the handling of the clerical mistake.

    From Sole Winner to Co-Queens: The Timeline

    The controversy began on April 11th during the Coronation ceremony, where Kinsley Wilson was initially announced as the sole winner, with Jillian Collier named as the first runner-up. However, following concerns raised by students, a thorough audit of the results was conducted. This audit uncovered a technical discrepancy in the initial scoring, revealing that Collier had actually achieved the highest overall score.

    Instead of revoking Wilson’s title, Spelman leadership decided on April 17th to name both women as co-queens. The college stated this resolution aimed to correct the technical error while honoring the excellence demonstrated by both scholars. “In the spirit of Spelman sisterhood, we recognize that both of these exceptional scholars embodied the excellence, poise, and leadership required of Miss Spelman,” the college said in a statement. “Naming co-queens allows us to rectify a technical error while celebrating two women who were equally deserving of the honor.”

    Community Divided and Official Response

    This decision has divided the Spelman community and drawn reactions across social media. Many alumni and students argue that the co-queen compromise undermines the competitive integrity of the pageant. Reports indicate that Jillian Collier herself expressed disagreement with the decision, calling it “unfair and unjust” in a statement obtained by 11Alive.

    In response to the backlash, Spelman College officials have pledged to overhaul their protocols to prevent similar errors in the future. The institution also issued an apology to the student body for the mistake and its impact on students and their families. Furthermore, Spelman announced on Instagram that it is temporarily stepping back from social media engagement due to the increasingly “ugly” nature of the online conversation.

    Looking Ahead

    Despite the controversy, both Collier and Wilson are expected to serve as official student ambassadors for the college during the upcoming 2026 homecoming festivities.

    What are your thoughts on Spelman’s decision to name co-queens? Do you think it was the right way to handle the scoring error? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • Symone Sanders to Keynote Spelman’s 2026 Commencement

    Get ready, Spelman graduates! The prestigious historically Black college for women has announced its keynote speaker for the 139th commencement ceremony on May 17, 2026, and it’s none other than political strategist Symone Sanders Townsend.

    A Trailblazer Takes the Stage

    Sanders Townsend, currently co-anchor of “The Weeknight” on MS Now, is a dynamic figure known for her rapid rise in political communications. She’s a true inspiration, having made history as the youngest presidential press secretary during Bernie Sanders’ 2016 campaign. Her impressive resume also includes serving as a senior advisor to President Joe Biden and chief spokesperson for Vice President Kamala Harris.

    During the ceremony at the Georgia International Convention Center, Sanders Townsend will also be honored with an honorary doctorate of laws. This recognition celebrates her significant contributions and influence in the political arena.

    Embodying the Spelman Ideal

    Spelman’s Interim President, Rosalind “Roz” Brewer, C’84, couldn’t be more thrilled. She described Sanders Townsend as a “21st-century Renaissance woman,” highlighting how her career as a strategist and entrepreneur serves as a powerful role model for the graduating class. Brewer emphasized that Sanders Townsend truly embodies the qualities Spelman aims to cultivate in its students.

    “The breadth of Symone’s pursuits and depths of her influence make her the ideal person to inspire and move our graduates,” Brewer stated. “As a strategist, communicator, and entrepreneur, she embodies the 21st-century Renaissance woman that the Spelman woman seeks to emulate.”

    A Weekend of Inspiration

    The commencement weekend promises to be a star-studded affair, celebrating not only the graduates but also other distinguished Black women. Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, former CEO of Feeding America, will receive the National Community Service Award, and nationally respected faith leader Rev. Dr. Gina M. Stewart will lead the baccalaureate service.

    This year’s graduating Class of 2026 is particularly notable, with seven students set to share the title of valedictorian – a rare academic achievement. In total, 569 graduates are expected to receive their degrees, marking the culmination of their hard work and dedication.

    What message do you hope Symone Sanders Townsend will share with the Spelman Class of 2026? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Spelman Stunners Shine at SpelHouse Homecoming

    The Atlanta University Center was buzzing with energy as Spelman College and Morehouse College celebrated their iconic SpelHouse Homecoming! Amidst the festivities, the Spelman stunners truly stole the show, showcasing a perfect blend of beauty, brains, and undeniable Black excellence. These women proved that academic achievement and impeccable style go hand-in-hand.

    A Legacy of Excellence

    Spelman College, founded in 1881, continues its legacy as a global leader in educating women of African descent. Consistently ranked as the No. 1 HBCU in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for 19 consecutive years, the institution is renowned for its commitment to academic rigor, leadership development, and empowering its students. Interim President Roz Brewer highlighted this dedication, emphasizing Spelman’s role in preparing students for the world and shaping its future.

    With over 2,100 students hailing from diverse backgrounds, Spelman fosters an environment that encourages engagement with global cultures and inspires a commitment to positive social change. The college boasts an impressive roster of notable alumnae, including Bernice King, Alice Walker, Stacey Abrams, Tati Gabrielle, Keshia Knight Pulliam, and the late Esther Rolle, all of whom embody the spirit of Spelman.

    Showcasing Style and Sisterhood

    SpelHouse Homecoming is more than just a celebration of academic achievement; it’s a vibrant display of culture, community, and, of course, fashion. The Spelman students, often referred to as “stunners,” brought their A-game, turning heads with their stylish outfits and confident presence. From elegant ensembles to trendy streetwear, they showcased a diverse range of personal styles, all while radiating sisterhood and pride.

    Being recognized as the nation’s top HBCU for the 19th consecutive year is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our unwavering commitment to academic excellence, leadership development and the empowerment of our students. — Roz Brewer, Spelman Interim President

    The gallery of Spelman stunners captured the essence of Homecoming – a joyous occasion where students, alumnae, and supporters come together to celebrate the enduring legacy and bright future of this esteemed institution. Their style and spirit are a testament to the empowering education and vibrant community that Spelman provides.

    As the Atlanta University Center continues to be a hub for Black excellence, Spelman College stands tall, not only for its academic prowess but also for the radiant confidence and style of its students. These Spelman stunners are not just attendees; they are integral parts of the Homecoming celebration, embodying the pride and prestige of their alma mater.

    What’s your favorite part of HBCU Homecoming celebrations? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Design Essentials Invests $250K in Spelman College

    In a powerful move celebrating Black excellence and the future of innovation, the Black-owned beauty brand Design Essentials has pledged a substantial $250,000 to Spelman College. This long-term financial commitment is aimed at empowering the next generation of female chemists and leaders emerging from the esteemed HBCU.

    A Legacy of Support

    This generous donation comes as Design Essentials celebrates its 35th anniversary. For over three decades, the brand has been a staple for Black women, providing essential hair products and consistently demonstrating its dedication to uplifting and supporting the community. This pledge to Spelman is a clear continuation of that mission.

    The investment is earmarked to support scholarships, vital student initiatives, and the development of future Black women leaders. It’s a significant contribution to fostering excellence within the HBCU landscape.

    Celebrating Homecoming with Impact

    Cornell McBride, President of McBride Research Laboratories (the parent company of Design Essentials), expressed immense pride in the partnership. “As a member of the Design Essentials family, I’m incredibly proud to celebrate Spelman’s Homecoming,” he stated. “As a Black-owned, Atlanta-based beauty brand, we’ve pledged a $250,000 donation to Spelman College to help empower the next generation of female chemists and innovators.”

    To mark the occasion, Design Essentials was a prominent presence during Morehouse and Spelman’s Homecoming Week. They hosted engaging on-campus activations, a golf tournament, and even a kick-off concert featuring the talented Ari Lennox, adding a vibrant cultural element to the celebration.

    Filling the Funding Gap

    In a time when higher education funding faces uncertainty, partnerships like this are more crucial than ever. Design Essentials’ commitment serves as a powerful example of how established Black-owned brands can step in to support and strengthen educational institutions, ensuring that aspiring students have the resources they need to succeed.

    What are your thoughts on Design Essentials’ generous donation to Spelman College? Share your reactions in the comments below!