Echo The
a publication for Delaware State University alumni and friends
Spring 2017
125 CELEBRATING
YEARS OF ALUMNI SUCCESS AND HIGHLIGHTS IN DSU’S HISTORY
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Scenes from Homecoming 2016
Adzua Rodgers, a senior mass communications major, energizes the crowd during the Homecoming Parade in downtown Dover.
On the Cover
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THIS ISSUE
Alumni
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40 Under/Over 40 honorees DE
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Reflecting on 125 years of DSU history
Inside
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Giving
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Athletics
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With the support of alumni and friends, the five-year Greater Than One: Campaign for Students exceeded its goal.
2016 Hall of Fame honorees
The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
Young Dr. Luna I. Mishoe
History
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Seventh President Luna I. Mishoe has been honored as an original Tuskegee Airman.
Alumni Profiles Tetra Shockley ’04 Kevin Wright ’90 Dr. Jamar Jeffers ’02 ’03 Kathleen Charlot ’11 Steven Ewing ’82
ALSO INSIDE
The Buzz Chapter Notes Class Notes In Memoriam
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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Echo THE
The Echo is a collaborative publication of the Division of Institutional Advancement and the Department of Integrated Marketing at Delaware State University. Contact the Office of Alumni Relations with alumni news for future editions at alumni@desu.edu or 302.857.6050. PRESIDENT Dr. Harry L. Williams VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT Dr. Vita Threatt-Pickrum ’16 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Dr. Marcia Taylor ’84 EDITORIAL STAFF Jennifer Rickard, associate director of Integrated Marketing Editor and designer Carlos Holmes, director of News Services Writer and photographer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bryant Bell ’75 ’94, director of planned gifts Lorene Robinson ’77, director of donor relations Charity Shockley ’06 ’15, director of annual giving and grants Marcia A. Taylor ’84, EdD, executive director of Alumni Relations Dennis Jones, assistant athletics director for Media Relations DSU EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION Harry L. Williams, EdD, president Teresa Hardee, EdD, senior vice president and chief operating officer Saundra DeLauder, PhD, interim vice president for Academic Affairs and dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Research Stacy Downing, EdD, vice president for Student Affairs Vita Threatt-Pickrum ’16, EdD, vice president for Institutional Advancement Irene Hawkins ’14, vice president for Human Resources Bradley Skelcher, PhD, associate provost David Sheppard, Esq., general counsel Louis B. “Skip” Perkins Jr., associate vice president and Athletics director DSU BOARD OF TRUSTEES David G. Turner ’86, chairman Barry M. Granger, vice chairman John J. Allen Jr. The Honorable Michael N. Castle José F. Echeverri ’08, MBA Debbie Harrington, EdD Lois M. Hobbs Charles S. McDowell, Esq. Kathy McGuiness, RPh Wilma Mishoe, EdD John Ridgeway ’75 Roy Roper Leroy A. Tice, Esq. ’02 Mark A. Turner Devona E. Williams, PhD
Ex Officio The Honorable John Carney, governor of the state of Delaware Dr. Harry L. Williams, president TRUSTEES EMERITI Dr. A. Richard Barros, Esq. Dr. John W. Land ’66 Dr. Cora Norwood Selby ’40 Dr. Claibourne D. Smith
In 2017, great things continue to lie ahead for Delaware State Dear alumni and friends,
D
uring 2017, we are looking forward to new accomplishments and partnerships that will continue to increase the standing of Delaware State University within the worldwide higher education sphere. In moving toward the end of DSU’s 125th anniversary, we continue to celebrate the University as a thriving institution that is full of great expectations to come. Student success and sustainability continue as top priorities, and because of inroads toward the goals in those areas, the higher education community is watching what DSU is doing. We are in the second year of the Individual Development Plan (IDP) initiative, which focuses close attention on the progress of our students and provides them with meaningful advisement. Our work in that area has drawn the attention and support of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Last year we expanded our partnerships with universities in China and Nigeria, while at the same time through new agreements, we have opened the door for activities with other countries as well (learn more, Page 9). Increasingly, more colleges and universities from abroad find DSU has much to offer and are approaching the University to establish new collaborations. As the University progresses ahead this year, we expect the institution to continue expanding our international footprint. We are gratified that many people are supportive of DSU’s direction. That has been especially evident with the
Dr. Harry Lee Williams
successful conclusion last fall of the five-year Greater Than One: Campaign for Students, in which the University exceeded its fundraising goal of $20 million (story, Page 24). Through it, our endowment is stronger, our financial ability to help students stay in school is greater, and we can provide broader support for our student success initiatives. Alumni giving increased during that fundraising period, and we are hopeful that more and more graduates of the institution will realize the importance of giving back to their Del State alma mater. Delaware State University’s future excellence will be greatly enhanced by the support of its alumni, and it is our hope that every alumni member embraces that significant role.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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As the yearlong celebration of our May 15, 1891, founding as the Delaware College for Colored Students nears its close, we continue to reflect upon the events and the accomplishments of alumni, students, faculty, staff and administrators who have shaped Delaware State University.
Reflecting on a century and a quarter of Delaware State history A sampling of some of the contents of the 125th anniversary celebration time capsule.
A time capsule has been filled with memorabilia from today and years gone by so that future generations can get a hands-on glimpse of DSU’s past. Photographs, catalogs, letters, event programs, newspapers and more will preserve a look at academics, events and life at DSU for the future campus community to view in 50 years. Visitors to this year’s Founders Day celebration got a peek at the capsule contents and heard stories about the historic artifacts. Accomplished alumni have been an important part of DSU’s 125th anniversary celebration. You can read their success stories in this issue of The Echo as well as online at desu.edu/125.
ACADEMICS
THE HORNET
IN 1892
In the early 1940s, the nickname “Hornets” was first derived from a bus called “The Blue Hornet” that carried sports teams to their away games.
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Courses of study leading to a baccalaureate degree were offered at the launch of the Delaware College for Colored Students on February 2, 1892:
At its May 15, 1891, founding, DSU was called the Delaware College for Colored Students. On Jan. 3, 1893, legislators changed the name to the State College for Colored Students to eliminate confusion with Delaware College in Newark, Del. In 1947, lawmakers renamed the institution Delaware State College. DSU’s latest chapter began July 1, 1993, when Gov. Thomas Carper signed the name Delaware State University into law.
Agricultural, Chemical, Classical, Engineering and Scientific.
Undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs are available in a variety of traditional and contemporary majors.
The Delaware State College Laboratory High School, a predecessor to today’s Early College High School, operated on campus from 1921 to 1952 in the current Student Health Center building.
ENROLLMENT
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At Founding
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ALUMNI
IN 1960
2,327 3,756 IN 1987
IN 2007
4,600
OUR NAME
Delaware State’s Alumni Association had its beginnings in 1930.
NOTABLE FIRSTS:
IN 2016
ATHLETICS TEAMS GOT THEIR EARLY START: IN 1905-1906 | Football and baseball IN 1912 | Basketball and track IN 1934 | Women’s basketball State College orchestra circa 1905
THE ECHO A student newspaper titled The Echo was started in 1909.
Courtesy of the University Archives
MUSIC
Before the Approaching Storm Marching Band was formed, a 10-piece brass band first provided music on campus in 1902. In 1926, Pauline Williams LeCompte composed the Alma Mater that is still cherished today.
John Taylor ’86 became the first former Hornet football star to play in the Super Bowl. A nine season member of the San Francisco 49ers, he appeared in three Super Bowls, including his game-winning touchdown catch in Super XXIII (1989). Dr. William R. Wynder ’36 was the first graduate to earn a doctoral degree (1960 from New York University). He was a Del State faculty member, director of the Agriculture Program and vice president of Student Affairs. Wayne Gilchrest ’73 was the first graduate to be elected to Congress, serving Maryland in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1991 to 2009.
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Alumni WHAT’S NEW
New Alumni Relations team ready to get to know you
DR. MARCIA TAYLOR ’84 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
DIANE KIRBY ’09 Alumni engagement manager
Dr. Marcia Taylor ’84 is the new executive director of Alumni Relations in the Division of Institutional Advancement at Delaware State University. As a founding member of the Department of Mass Communications, Taylor developed the public relations specialization and chartered the Public Relations Student Society (PRSSA) at DSU. She has held office in the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) in Delaware and Virginia, where she served as a board member while teaching at Norfolk State University. She is also a three-time PRSA Silver Anvil Judge. Taylor is excited about using her public relations skills and knowledge of DSU to enhance alumni relations.
Hello, alumni!
Diane Kirby is a Delaware State University alum with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management. She began working at her alma mater in 2013 in the Office of Development, Division of Institutional Advancement. She is now starting a new position as the alumni engagement manager in the Office of Alumni Relations in the same division. She will be leading and guiding young alumni activities to enhance alumni engagement and help the University meet its strategic goals.
Ongoing
We are excited about joining the Alumni Relations Office in the Division of Institutional Advancement at our beloved alma mater. 2017 will mark a transformative shift in alumni relations at DSU. Our goals are to:
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Encourage and support multigenerational leadership at chapter levels; Launch a new, interactive alumni website with alumniinitiated communication that allows alumni interaction and the updating and collecting of contact information; Finalize the draft of the new DSU Alumni Directory; Expand membership and activity among the Corporate Alumni Affinity Groups; Develop campaigns targeted to young alumni; Create a major spring semester event to attract alumni to campus; and Visit alumni hubs to inspire engagement, enthusiasm, networking, and service to home communities and the DSU campus. Support alumni initiatives spearheaded by the DSU Alumni Association on campus and at the chapter levels; Conduct research to obtain perspectives on alumni communications and programming that connects you to DSU such as: The Echo, In the Loop, Heritage newsletter, Homecoming, Commencement and Founder’s Day; and Participate in ongoing research “listening” to alumni suggestions to enhance alumni involvement.
We encourage you to get involved, plan a visit and give back to the departments and programs that are dearest to your heart. We need your support to transform and strengthen DSU Alumni Relations. Contact us at alumni@desu.edu or 302.857.6050. We hope to see or hear from you soon!
How do you like to read The Echo? Do you prefer to receive a printed copy of The Echo in the mail, or would you rather read it online only? We’d like to know so that we can best serve your interests. Please share your thoughts by visiting desu.edu/echo or calling 302.857.6050. Thank you in advance for your input! 6
The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
The Buzz CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS
Williams named fifth most influential HBCU president
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Delaware State has emerged as a national HBCU brand in STEM development and support for undocumented students seeking opportunities for higher education. The school also remains among the nation’s most diverse campuses, while maintaining a strong HBCU identity and increasing presence in federal and state opportunities for research and expansion.
DSU and Delmarva Power dedicate new Renewable Energy Education Center Delaware State University recently joined with Delmarva Power, an Exelon company, to dedicate its new Renewable Energy Education Center (REEC) in the Luna I. Mishoe Science Center on campus. The REEC has been made possible by a $180,000 Energy Workforce Development grant from Delmarva Power, which is the first installment of a four-year, $720,000 commitment. The new center will help increase access to clean energy and advance the state’s goal to get 25 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2025. The center will work to establish the state’s baseline of renewable energy literacy and usage; improve the infrastructure and capacity of renewable energy education, research and extension; and offer certificate programs and credentialing services in renewable energy. For more information about the center, call 302.857.6010.
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HBCU Digest, in its “Top 10 Most Influential HBCU Presidents of 2016,” honoring President Harry L. Williams with the No. 5 spot
DSU 14TH IN NATIONAL HBCU RANKINGS, 4th among Public INSTITUTIONS Delaware State in 2016 moved up seven spots in U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings of 105 Historically Black Colleges and Universities. President Harry L. Williams said that DSU’s higher ranking is reflective of the hard work of faculty and staff to improve student success. “A big indicator of the University’s effectiveness in student success is found in retention and graduation,” Williams said. “Those are areas that DSU has been able to progressively improve and they are also major categories in the U.S. News & World Report’s annual HBCU rankings.” DSU’s improvement in alumni giving was another factor in its rise. “I would like to thank DSU’s faculty, staff, students, alumni and Board for their tireless, unwavering commitments to the accomplishments at Delaware State University,” Williams said.
DSU Training and Technology Center powered by Barclays launches Mobile App Academy Thanks to a $200,000 grant from Barclays Bank, the Del State Mobile App Academy was established in 2016 and graduated its inaugural cohort of participants. During the six-week technology “boot camp,” the participants became certified in Android mobile architecture and Java programming language, highly soughtafter skill sets in the regional job market. The seventh floor of the DSU Living and Learning Commons houses the renovated state-of-the-art Mobile App Laboratory in the Delaware State University Training and Technology Center (DTTC) powered by Barclays. The University plans to offer the mobile app course again in summer 2017.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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DECEMBER COMMENCEMENT
The Presidential Academic Award was presented by President Harry L. Williams to Jennifer Seibert, an Elementary Education major from Dover, who maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout her entire academic career. Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters were awarded to then-Delaware Gov. Jack Markell and Johnny C. Taylor, president and chief executive officer of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, who addressed graduates as the commencement keynote speaker.
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The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
At Delaware State University’s 2016 December Commencement, more than 250 graduates received their diplomas recognizing the completion of bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Among the undergraduates, eight completed their academic journey as Summa Cum Laude, 16 as Magna Cum Laude, 21 as Cum Laude and three as Honorable Mention.
THE BUZZ
International and institutional partnerships continue to expand During the summer and fall, Delaware State University solidified or explored partnerships with a number of institutions internationally and domestically.
CAMEROON’S CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY INSTITUTE OF BUEA | An agreement establishes an educational and cultural relationship, facilitating faculty and student exchanges, research program collaborations, writing of joint grant proposals, establishment of joint programs and DSU mentoring of its School of Agriculture and Natural Resources and School of Information Technology.
SOUTHWEST PETROLEUM UNIVERSITY OF CHENGDU, CHINA | The finalization of a memorandum of understanding during a visit to the country by President Harry L. Williams and a delegation from the University opens the door for possible study abroad exchanges, faculty teaching and research collaborations, academic discipline connections and other activities. NIGERIA’S UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN | An agreement signed during a visit to the country by President Williams paves the way for collaborations between faculty and staff in the area of research, lectures and other academic pursuits. It also opens the door to future faculty and student exchanges as well as short study abroad programs.
RED CLAY (DE) SCHOOL DISTRICT | An agreement between DSU and the Red Clay School District in Greater Wilmington, Del., will allow high school students of that district to take upper level computer science classes at the DSU@Wilmington facility on Kirkwood Highway.
WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF VALHALLA, N.Y. | An agreement will facilitate the transfer of WCC’s associate degree graduates to DSU, where they will be able to complete a bachelor’s degree in two years. It also makes it possible for WCC associate degree in Accounting graduates to pursue a Master of Business Administration degree in one additional year.
NINGBO COMMENCEMENT President Harry L. Williams led a delegation to China to attend the Commencement Ceremony at Ningbo University of Technology (NBUT), celebrating the second cohort of NBUT students who successfully completed DSU’s accounting program to earn degrees from both DSU and their home institution.
WIDENER UNIVERSITY DELAWARE LAW SCHOOL | An agreement creates a special admission path for DSU graduates who want to continue their studies in pursuit of a law degree, allowing those eligible to be admitted to the school’s full-time program and receive a minimum $10,000 merit scholarship.
POSSIBLE FUTURE PARTNERSHIPS | A delegation from Kenya’s county government of Nyandarua and a representative from Groupe Scolaire Les Benoits (GDB), a leading high school in the West African country of Ivory Coast, also visited DSU in recent months to explore possible future relationships.
Board of Trustees welcomes three members The Board of Trustees formally swore in three new members — alumnus John Ridgeway ’75, Dr. Debbie Harrington and Kathy McGuiness — during 2016-2017 and also bid farewell to three outgoing members. Ridgeway brings 24 years of corporate experience to the board. Currently the corporate manager of Toyota’s Eastern Territory Service Center in Owings Mills, Md., he previously was a senior vice president with Bank of America and held director posts for Sears, Roebuck and Co. Harrington, a resident of Middletown, Del., is a retired U.S. Army colonel who was an expert logistician with 25 years of experience during her military career. She has since worked in the areas of nonprofit organizational management, community development and social justice. A native Delawarean, McGuiness owned and operated the Rehoboth Pharmacy and a retail business in Rehoboth Beach, Del. She has served for 15 years as an elected Rehoboth commissioner and was the founding
John Ridgeway ’75
Dr. Debbie Harrington
Kathy McGuiness
president of the national award-winning nonprofit Rehoboth Beach Main Street. Appointed by the board, Ridgeway succeeds former member Robert E. Buccini, and Harrington succeeds former member Wesley E. Perkins. A governor’s appointee, McGuiness succeeds James W. Stewart III.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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History SHAPING DSU
Mishoe honored as original Tuskegee Airman DELAWARE STATE’S SEVENTH PRESIDENT SERVED WITH LEGENDARY SQUADRON DURING WORLD WAR II
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previously unknown chapter of the life of former President Luna I. Mishoe has come to light, as recent research has determined that Delaware State’s seventh president served during World War II as one of the original Tuskegee Airmen from 1942-1945. Mishoe was a photographic intelligence and communications officer for the all-black Army Air Force’s 99th Squadron that served with distinction in the WWII European Theater of Operations. The Tuskegee Airmen part of Mishoe’s life story was uncovered over the last year by Andre Swygert, the son of alumni Arnold ’78 (deceased) and Peggy ’62 Swygert, and an avid student of aviation and Tuskegee Airmen history. Swygert discovered the name “Mishoe” in connection with the 99th Squadron and later substantiated that Dr. Luna I. Mishoe was a part of that Before his time as DSC president, 1st Lt. legendary aviation Luna I. Mishoe served in the Tuskegee group. Airmen’s Army Air Force’s 99th Squadron. Apparently Mishoe The discovery was made by Andre was so reticent about Swygert, an avid student of aviation and that aspect of his World Tuskegee Airmen history. War II service, Swygert’s discovery was also news to his surviving family. “We didn’t know he was one of the original Tuskegee Airmen,” said his daughter Dr. Wilma Mishoe, who is currently a DSU Board of Trustees member. “He never told us about that.” Swygert notes that was not unusual. “Some Tuskegee Airmen treated that as just another part of their life story and didn’t talk much about it,” he said. After Mishoe’s Tuskegee Airmen service ended, he taught at then-Delaware State College and Morgan State College and also worked as a research mathematician and consultant at the Aberdeen Proving Ground’s Ballistic Research Laboratory, where he made a name for himself by creating mathematical methods for solving some of the problems faced initially by the 10 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
CELEBRATION HONORS MISHOE’S SERVICE In December, the John H. Porter First State Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen held a luncheon celebration in honor of Dr. Luna I. Mishoe and his newly discovered connection. Along with numerous posthumous recognitions from the City of Dover, the state governor and the Delaware Senate, among others, the Mishoe family also received on behalf of their late patriarch a bronze replica of a Congressional Gold Medal that other Tuskegee Airmen had been given in 2007. In addition to his daughter Dr. Wilma Mishoe, above left, also in attendance were the rest of his children — the Rev. Rita Paige, above right, Bernellyn Mishoe Carey, Luna I. Mishoe II, as well Henry C. Mishoe, a cousin raised by Dr. Mishoe and his wife Hattie at the President’s Residence. United States in developing its first satellites. He also earned a Ph.D. in mathematics from New York University in 1953 and did postdoctoral research at Oxford University in England. Mishoe left Morgan State in 1960 to become the president of DSC, where he would build greatly on the pivotal leadership of his predecessor Dr. Jerome Holland. During his 27-year tenure, DSC would experience the greatest growth ever achieved under any president in its history. Mishoe led a transformation that included greatly improving the relationship between the College and state government; the construction of 10 new buildings and the upgrading of existing ones; and the significant expansion of the academic offerings including an increase in undergraduate degree programs from 18 to 70, as well as the establishment of the first three master’s degree programs. All of those developments contributed to and supported the prolific expansion of the enrollment from 368 to 2,327 students prior to his retirement. With the recent revelations concerning Mishoe’s service as an original Tuskegee Airman, DSU historians now know of an additional force that contributed greatly to his leadership molding and worked with other life factors to produce one of the institution’s greatest presidents. n Story by Carlos Holmes
DSU ONLINE.
Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
BACHELOR’S DEGREES
MASTER’S DEGREES
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ACCOUNTING, BS CRIMINAL JUSTICE, BA GENERAL MANAGEMENT, BS PSYCHOLOGY, BS PUBLIC HEALTH, BS
desu.edu/online
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, MBA PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, MPA SOCIAL WORK, MSW SPORT ADMINISTRATION, MSA
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Club recognizes inaugural class of successful alumni Delaware State University honored 40 alumni as part of its new 40 Under/Over 40 Club during the 125th Anniversary Celebration held during Homecoming Weekend at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino. The 40 Under/Over 40 Club recognizes successful graduates who have demonstrated a high level of excellence in their professional careers as well as a commitment to serving their communities. Based upon DSU’s Core Values — Community, Integrity, Diversity, Scholarship and Outreach — this club focuses on building a culture for philanthropy while recognizing the importance of alumni outreach. The 125th Anniversary Celebration included performances by V. Bozeman, a singer and actress on the hit television drama Empire, as well as the electrifying group the Panama Band. To read the full 40 Under/Over Club biographies, go to desu.edu/forty.
The Honorees Dr. Donald ’58 and Dolores Blakey ’62
Halvin Blocksom ’61
THE HONORABLE STEPHANIE T. BOLDEN ’69
LATISHA BRACY ’04
NED W. BROWN JR. ’71
LEFEISHA D. (WILLIAMSON) CANNON ’03
ERNEST “SAMMY” CONGO ’67
ERNEST M. “TRIPPI” CONGO II ’98
GREG COVERDALE ’99
DR. CORRIE L. Davis ’98
ROBERT G. DRAINE SR. ’60
DR. MARTIN A. Drew ’65 ShAron Dixon-Drew ‘66
STEVEN EWING ’82
SCHLONN HAWKINS ’10
CAROLYN GOLDEN HEBSGAARD ’65
Dr. reba ’49 and The late Dr. Berlin ’67 Hollingsworth
MATTHEW W. HORACE ’85
Dr. JAMAR H. Jeffers ’02 ’03
CHRIS JOYNER ’76
THe Honorable Rochelle S. Knapp ’04
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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Dr. Emmanuel Lalande ’05
James F. ’62 and Mary Jane Marshall ’75
DARNERIEN MCCANTS ’01
JERMAIN MILLER
Isaiah Nathaniel ’04
NORman Oliver ’85
Jerome Pinkett ’61
Maurice Pritchett ’65
John Ridgeway ’75
Philip G. Sadler JR. ’62
MONICA SCOTT ’02
Taunita Stephenson ’09
Jimmie ’66 and Tina ’65 Strong
Leroy Tice, Esq. ’02
Cathleen Trigg-Jones ’92
David G. Turner ’86
Robert P. Vanderhost ’72
Enid WallaceSimms ’74
Leah Williams ’15 ’16
Herman L. Wood ’73
14 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
Commemorative Brick Paver
GET YOURS TODAY! DEADLINE: JUNE 30, 2017
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During Homecoming Week 2015, DSU held the official kickoff of a project to erect a memorial statue of Delaware State College (DSC) President Jerome Holland on the Dover campus.
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Dr. Holland — DSC president from 1953-1960 — is credited with providing the critical leadership needed to navigate the College through the most difficult decade of its history. Amid forces in the state that threatened to close the institution, Dr. Holland brought about improvements at DSC that ensured its survival and established a foundation that future presidents would build upon.
The brick pavers are currently available in sections A, B, C, E and F. DONOR OPPORTUNITIES E PLAZA HOLLAND MEMORIAL SCULPTUR PROPOSED DR. JEROME EAST PERSPECTIVE VIEW LOOKING
Section A | 4’’ X 8’’ | $200
15 characters per line, 3 lines | Perimeter accent paver
Section B | 4’’ X 8’’ | $100
Through your support, you can join us as we commemorate the accomplishments of Dr. Holland with the purchase of a brick paver lining the walkway surrounding the statue featuring your name and/or personal message.
15 characters per line, 3 lines | General paver
Section C | 24’’ X 24’’ | $10,000 18 characters per line, 8 lines
Section E | 24’’ X 16’’ | $5,000 For more information, contact us at 302.857.6055 or dsufoundation@desu.edu.
18 characters per line, 6 lines
Section F | 16’’ X 8’’ | $500 18 characters per line, 6 lines
For more information, visit:
desu.edu/hollandstatue
“ The law
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was God-breathed into me as a child
Fulfilling her career dream and serving as Mrs. Delaware America, Tetra Shockley ’04 advocates for girls and women who have suffered abuse
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nyone who looks at the life story of Tetra Shockley, Esq., would conclude that she is a strong black woman.
After earning a Bachelor of Science in Management and Marketing (double major) from DSU in 2004, she would go on to earn an MBA from Wesley College in 2009 and then a Juris Doctorate Degree from Widener University Delaware Law School in 2012, and that same year she passed the Delaware Bar Exam. After serving for nine months as a general counsel for Kingdom Business Enterprises in Dover, she was hired by the Delaware Department of Justice as a deputy attorney general. She has represented the state Division of Family Services, focusing on child protection cases. As if that weren’t enough, in 2016 Shockley won the title of Mrs. Delaware America. And as a child, she was sexually abused by a family member. The life story of Shockley is one in which she has been able to progress and succeed while at the same time effectively work through the issues from her childhood trauma. That has propelled her to advocate on behalf of children and show girls and women who have suffered
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After earning her Juris Doctorate Degree from Widener University Law School and passing the Delaware Bar Exam in 2012, Tetra Shockley, Esq. ’04 served as a state deputy attorney general for four years and now is in private practice with The Castro Firm Inc.
abuse that the reality of success and fulfillment that she has experienced is also more than possible for them as well. “I want girls and women (who have suffered abuse) to look at me and see that they can rise up and be whatever God has called them to be,” Shockley said. Shockley said practicing law provides her a platform for her purpose in life. She said her aspirations for the legal field began at an early age. “The law was God-breathed into me as a child,” Shockley said. “From age nine, I wanted to be a lawyer.” Although born in Lewes, Del., she grew up in Millsboro where she was raised by her mother and father Raymond and Vanessa Jackson. She also has a birth dad, Frank Winsley. Because a number of her family members (her grandparents, birth dad and others) were Del State alumni, enrollment in DSU was the logical choice. However, after one year she withdrew and attended Delaware Technical Community College, where she earned an associate’s degree in business.
ALUMNI Two faculty role models at DSU are both strong black women who made me see that I could be a strong black woman. ... They cared about my success. Tetra Shockley, Esq. ’04
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Shockley then returned to DSU to finish her undergraduate degree. But at the same time, she was still dealing with emotional issues that were rooted in the abuse that she had suffered as a child, which it would take her years to effectively work through. Progress toward that occurred at DSU when she was exposed to two influential faculty members — Natalie Belcher, assistant professor of English, and (now Dr.) L. Germaine Scott-Cheatham, who then taught professional development in the College of Business. “When I was at DSU… that was a dark period. But they are both strong black women who made me see that I could be a strong black woman,” Shockley said. “They’re educated and articulate, and they own it. They cared about my success.” After graduating from DSU, she began studying for the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT), but she struggled in her preparation. “I prayed about it, and God said no (to taking the LSAT),” Shockley said. And with that, she shifted her focus back to business and began pursuing an MBA at Wesley College in Dover. It was during that time that she married her current husband, Jerome Shockley. Their union has produced two children, Tierra and Jaden, currently ages nine and five, respectively. In the last year of her MBA studies, she had a conversation with her uncle, the Rev. Theodore Winsley (also a DSU alumnus), who asked her what she wanted to do once she graduated. She said it prompted her to pray again about it, and she found that God’s will for her was to enroll in law school. “I believe that for what I would end up doing in law, God knew that there were some things that I still needed to deal with in connection with my past trauma. I had to be healed and delivered,” she said. “That’s why he said no the first time I prayed. But he wasn’t saying, ‘no, never’. ”
Aspirations fulfilled With God and her husband’s blessing, she enrolled in Widener University Law School and by 2012 she had earned her Juris Doctorate Degree and passed the Delaware Bar Exam that same year. That ultimately led to being hired as a deputy attorney
Tetra Shockley ’04 came back to her alma mater in November to give back and share her life experiences with a DSU speech class. In her third attempt in 2016, Shockley won the Mrs. Delaware America Pageant, a reign that will continue until July 2017.
general and her work in representing and protecting children. “The kids I fight for, they have lived with people who abused or neglected them,” Shockley said. “When the Division of Families finds children in such a situation, we remove the children from the home.” In the midst of her four years with the Department of Justice, Shockley also fulfilled another aspiration. In her third attempt in 2016, she won the Mrs. Delaware America Pageant, a reign that will continue until July 2017. “It has been a platform from which I can go places and speak life,” Shockley said. “I have gone to daycare centers to talk to kids about ‘good touch, bad touch’; I have spoken at middle schools about bullying and I have gone to homeless shelters where I told women my story.” Shockley left her deputy attorney general position in December to enter private practice with The Castro Firm Inc., which bases its main law office in Wilmington, but also has an office in Dover. “The work I did as a deputy attorney general was fulfilling, but career-wise it was leaving me pigeon-holed,” Shockley said. “I want to have different experiences in law, and I couldn’t do that working for the state.” While she will continue to practice family law in her new position, she will also work in the areas of personal injury and workman’s compensation. Shockley added she will also do volunteer work for the Office of the Child Advocate. “I need to be able to spread my wings,” she said. n Story and photos by Carlos Holmes
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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HONOR THE PAST, ENSURE THE FUTURE
50 Anniversary Celebrating the
th
OF THE DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CHARTER
AUGUST 18-19, 2017 FRIDAY, August 18
2 p.m. | “The State of HBCUs Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” Symposium Delaware State University, Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center 6 p.m. | “Honor the Past” Welcoming Reception Schwartz Center, 226 S. State St., Dover
SATURDAY, August 19
Noon | “Ensure the Future” Cookout/Luncheon Campus residence of President Harry L. Williams and First Lady Robin Williams 5:30 p.m. | “Together we will Succeed” Gala Modern Maturity Center, 1121 Forrest Ave., Dover
Cost: $100 for all four events! For more information, call 302.857.7053. YOU CAN ALSO ADVERTISE IN THE SOUVENIR BOOKLET! All ads are full color and must be camera ready. Deadline: June 30
Inside Cover – $350 Back Page – $350 Full Page – $200 Half Page – $125
Quarter Page – $75 Business Card – $65 (1/8 Page)
Patron List – $25
Call 757.677.6096 or 302.857.7053 Email DSUAA50 anniversary@gmail.com
ALUMNI
For alumnus Kevin Wright, Leadership is Personal CLASS OF 1990 GRAD shares HIS experience WITH Campus
A
lum Kevin Wright ’90 is a managing partner with Aeriis Inc. in Minneapolis, where he provides business, product and strategic partnership development, market analysis and keynote presentations. Working with organizations from the start-up phase to the publicly traded status, Wright promotes leadership that deeply connects and engages employees and customers. He believes that leadership is personal based on his 20-year Fortune 100 experience as a vice president at Bank of America, MBNA, Target and U.S. Bank. He led a training at DSU in January for staff, faculty and students where he discussed topics from his new book Better Results from the Leadership is Personal series.
WRIGHT’S LEADERSHIP TIPS 1. Begin your day with gratitude. 2. Go to work and break something — this leads to innovation. 3. To succeed, learn to say “no,” then focus on communication and prioritizing responsibilities. 4.
Don’t hesitate to disagree or challenge ideas in the spirit of finding the best answers and making great decisions.
5. Consider the resume that you are building for yourself — what will people say about you when you are gone?
Kevin Wright ’90 has been married to fellow alum the former Felicia Street ’94 for 18 years. They have two daughters.
Why do you believe that leadership is personal? Today, you must touch someone before you can teach them, before you can lead them. ... Today’s cultures, trends and growing employee bases require a different style of leadership, a more holistic style of leadership. By 2025, 75 percent of our workforce will be Millennials. They have spoken and desire family-work life integration, not balance. ... They are whole people, committed to their families and communities in ways not previously seen. You can’t get the most out of those you lead without knowing who’s in their lives, what influences their “why” and how they spend their time.
What are the most important skills needed by leaders today? Integrity | Values and core beliefs should direct us as individuals and leaders. Consistently living them and leading by them with honesty gives those you lead the template for decision making. Thinking (critically and strategically) | Collaboration is the name of the game. ... The ability to critically analyze trends and data and think beyond your walls, connecting with those that have synergistic capabilities, will drive innovation and speed to market. Coaching skills | Command and control may still work for the military. However, today’s employees require autonomy and the ability to work and think freely, creatively and collaboratively. ... We must possess the ability to guide and direct in a way that brings out the very best in those we lead.
How can leaders create a great team and stimulate innovation? Great teams are created first by bringing together capable people that have different abilities, perspectives and experiences. Then add trust. Give them the tools to do their jobs, then get the hell out of the way. ... Allow them to drive solutions with input from you as needed. ... Empower them to solve the issues of the day and tomorrow and trust they will do just that. People have a way of rising up to whatever challenge you put before them. S pring 2017 www.desu.edu
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Pathway to
success
begins with DSU enrichment program
The first Project Success graduate to earn a doctorate finds his passion in fundraising
D
r. Jamar Jeffers has become a poster child for the possibilities of students in DSU’s Project Success Program. Jeffers is the first graduate from the program to go on and earn a doctorate. In September, he returned to his alma mater to serve as the keynote speaker at the annual Convocation ceremony, noting his beginning as a student in the Project Success Program, designed to enroll underachieving high school graduates and with special attention prepare them for the rigors of a University education. “By all statistics, I shouldn’t have been here,” he said, referring to his high school 1.8 GPA. After completing a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications/Public Relations with a minor in Marketing in 2002 and a master’s degree in Management in 2003 — both from DSU — Jeffers put an exclamation point on his academic journey in 2015 by earning a Doctor of Business from Argosy University in Atlanta. His dissertation was entitled “A Phenomenological Study on Hip Hop Culture as a Marketing Strategy.” Sometime after he completed his master’s degree, he decided to move south in 2004. “I woke up one day, got a $6,000 loan from the bank and moved to Atlanta,” he said. It was rough at first. He began his Atlanta career adventure by selling insurance for John Hancock (“I made no money,” he said.). He also began teaching management as an adjunct at American Intercontinental University. After about a year, he spent two years working as an 20 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
DR. JAMAR JEFFERS ’02 ’03 account manager and freight broker for C.H. Robinson, a Fortune 500 transportation services company. However, that didn’t provide Jeffers with the management experience he desired, so in 2007 he became the director of membership and business services for the Georgia Center for Nonprofits. While in that post over the next four years, he began teaching management and marketing as an online instructor for Strayer University. But it would be in fundraising where he would find his niche. He became the director of development for The Lovett School’s Breakthrough Atlanta Program. In April 2016, he moved on to serve as the vice president of development for 100 Black Men of America. In his DSU convocation address, Jeffers told the freshmen in attendance that fundraising had become a passion for him, and he encouraged them to identify their passions and make them a part of their career plans. “People will pay you for your passion,” he said. “Tap into that passion; that is like God breathing air into your lungs.” A new opportunity arrived in December, and Jeffers now is the director of Institutional Advancement at Atlanta Technical College. In all that he has accomplished in his career, Jeffers continues to give his alma mater props. “DSU is where I became me,” he said. “It
As the 2016 fall Convocation keynote speaker, Dr. Jamar Jeffers, left, shown with President Harry L. Williams, told freshmen to embrace their journey and to learn from it.
was a family atmosphere, an environment where people cared and were interested in my success.” He noted that his on-campus extracurricular activities such as serving on the Student Government Association and as editor in chief of The Hornet newspaper helped him learn how to work with people, communicate well and work “for the good of the order.” Jeffers said his ultimate aspiration also involves DSU. “My audacious goal is to come back and be president of this University,” he said. “That would be my ultimate gift to DSU and will probably be my last job on earth.” n Story and photos by Carlos Holmes
ALUMNI
Former SGA president builds a career in corporate IT and cybersecurity
K
athleen N. Charlot used her extracurricular time well at DSU and finds it is now paying dividends as a young alumna with a blossoming career in Atlanta. While she worked toward her 2011 graduation with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a minor in Marketing, Charlot served as the SGA president for two years, as the college representative for the College of Business and as the vice president of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Fast forward to today — she is currently working as KATHLEEN an inside demand generation representative for Dell CHARLOT ’11 SecureWorks in the cybersecurity area. “I only deal with businesses that report $500 million or more in annual revenue,” she said. Charlot said her career has been full of new challenges and that DSU prepared her to meet them head on. “DSU helped me build my tenacity through the leadership opportunities that were available when I was there,” she said. After she graduated from DSU, she earned a MBA from Wilmington University in 2013. During those years, she was also selected to be a part of AT&T’s Business Sales Program. That got her foot in the door with that company, which hired her and sent her to work in Atlanta. Her career began as a medium business market accounts manager. Through that position she gained valuable experience and knowledge in IT corporate sales. She then took a job at Cbeyond where she focused on helping small businesses to develop IT strategies and cloud solutions. After a year there, Cbeyond was acquired by another company, and that led her to accept her current position. Charlot, the daughter of Jean and Beverly Charlot, both staff members in DSU’s William C. Jason Library, said the professionalism and business etiquette she learned in DSU’s College of Business has served her well. While her career continues, so have her academic pursuits. She is currently working on a doctorate in Educational Leadership through the University of New England.
“
Kathleen Charlot ’11
n Story and photo by Carlos Holmes
“
DSU helped me build my tenacity through the leadership opportunities that were available when I was there.
Alumni on Campus event features young and diverse alumni Delaware State University Alumni on Campus (AOC) recently attended a luncheon to launch the group’s 2017 spring activities. AOC members serve as volunteers for DSU events, adding the alumni perspective throughout campus life. The luncheon featured young alumni graduating seniors Tayzah Peeples, Jahi Ross, Kailyn Lowry and Portia Brewer. Led by DSU Alumni Association Recording Secretary LaKisha Thompson, AOC attendees played DSU trivia and a group bonding game while learning about alumni activities from Charity Shockley, director of annual giving and grants; Bryant Bell, director of planned gifts; Bernard Carr, vice president of the DSUAA; Gregory Hopkins, vice president of the DSUAA’s Kent County Chapter; and Charlene Jackson, chaplain of the Kent County Chapter.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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ALUMNI 2017 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS
Steven Ewing ’82 represents DSU as MEAC honoree
A
lumnus Steven Ewing ’82 was honored as Delaware State University’s representative in the 2017 class of Distinguished Alumni of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Upon his 1982 graduation from then-Delaware State College, Ewing entered the automobile business and has been the owner of several dealerships throughout his 33 years in the industry. He is currently making his mark on the world as the president and owner of Wade Ford Inc. in Smyrna, Ga. During his time on campus, Ewing’s pivotal leadership as student government president during the 1981-82 school year led to yearlong, quality programming that enriched campus life at Delaware State. He credits his learning at DSC for making his accomplishments possible.
Then and Now STUDENT LEADER | Steven Ewing ’82 was a pivotal Student Government Association president from 1981-82, elected on a promise to fight for student rights.
| In the years since his graduation, Ewing has found success as the owner of several automobile dealerships. In 2016, he was named Black Enterprise magazine’s “Dealer of the Year.” As an auto industry leader, he has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Ford Volume Dealers in the United States, receiving the President’s Award in 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2009. He was also number two in the Atlanta Region (YTD) for Ford and Ford Credit Commercial business and number one in E Series commercial sales. From 2002-2014, he received multiple national minority dealer top profit awards.
AUTO INDUSTRY LEADER
22 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
Ewing is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. and was a member of Delaware State’s football team. He recently donated $70,000 to the Delaware State University Athletics Division. In support of student success, Ewing also contributed $10,000 in 2016 to establish an endowment that will provide scholarships for DSU students. In his community, Ewing makes time to give back in the areas of education and homelessness, including Clark Atlanta University, the Campbell High School Athletics Program, the Fulton County Board of Education, Atlanta’s Young Generation Movement and the Atlanta Mission. He and his wife of 23 years, Terri, have two children, Halle and Stephen.
Students MAKING THEIR MARK
MISS DELAWARE USA
| MIA E. JONES
DSU welcomes 34 Opportunity Scholarship recipients
DSU is once again represented at the top of a First State pageant as junior Mia E. Jones has won the 2017 Miss Delaware USA crown. Jones, of Bear, Del., will also represent the state and compete in the Miss USA Pageant that will take place in the summer of 2017. It was the second pageant win for Jones — she was the 2014 Miss Delaware Teen USA, a reign she completed during her fall semester as a DSU freshman. The daughter of alumni Erik ’94 and Nneka ’96 Jones, the art education major said she aspires to be an art therapist. “People don’t always remember what you say or do, but they remember how you make them feel,” Jones said. “I want to touch everyone’s life; that’s why I want to be a teacher.” In addition to working with children, she said that she also wants to open her own community center for the fine arts.
2016 HBCU ALL-STAR
The Opportunity Scholarship in 2016 became an exciting reality at DSU for 34 immigrant students who otherwise would have virtually no higher education option in the United States. The scholarship recipients — known as DREAMers after the scholarship provider TheDream.US — are undocumented immigrants who as children came with their parents into the United States and attended public schools, excelling academically. Through no fault of their own, they found themselves locked out of state institutions of higher education — either by being declared out-of-state students (with unaffordable out-ofstate tuition costs) or by laws in certain states that prohibit the enrollment of undocumented students at state colleges and universities. Because Delaware State University has joined Eastern Connecticut State University as the two institutions to accept such students, it became an elusive dream come true for these new Hornets. The scholarship will cover DSU tuition, fees, housing and meal costs for four years for each student.
| EDGAR ORTIZ
DSU junior Edgar Ortiz was selected as a 2016 HBCU All-Star for The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). A 4.0 GPA aviation management major from Freehold, N.J., Ortiz was among 72 other HBCU students from 300 nominations selected for the honor based on their accomplishments in academics, leadership and civic engagement. In addition to his academic success, Ortiz was a residential assistant at Evers Hall and this year is a senior residential assistant at the University Village Apartments. He also does community service work during DSU’s annual Inspired Day of Service. Ortiz aspires to be an air traffic controller following graduation.
DSU 125TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
ALUMNI DIRECTORY Publishing Concepts, PCI, is joining alumni in commemorating the 125th anniversary of Delaware State University with the publishing of the first alumni directory in 15 years. Data collection is underway, and the directory will be available soon. Let’s make the 125th anniversary memorable for all alumni!
Purchase a directory: Call 800.982.1590 The deadline to order is May 26.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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$20 MILLION GOAL ACHIEVED! Delaware State University’s five-year Greater Than One: Campaign for Students exceeded its $20 million goal and successfully concluded four months ahead of schedule — making it the greatest fundraising campaign in the University’s 125-year history. The campaign’s overarching purpose was to raise funds to support the University’s work in achieving its primary and constant goal of student success.
TOTAL AMOUNT RAISED:
$20,370,762 (January 2011-August 2016)
Scholarships............................ $6,939,019 Student Programs.................... $6,265,226 University Support................... $3,938,960
Endowed Scholarships............. $1,760,932
“
Faculty Support........................ $1,466,625
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED:
3,238
OVERALL ENDOWMENT: $27,191,795 (up from $20.3 million in January 2011)
ALUMNI PARTICIPATION RATE: 11% (in fiscal year 2016, up from 5% in fiscal year 2011) 24 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
Dr. Vita Threatt-Pickrum ’16 Vice President for Institutional Advancement
“
The tremendous support for this campaign reflects the giving of a great host of individuals, foundations and corporations who have chosen to help DSU achieve its longterm student success goals. But then again, DSU could not do so without the help of its corporate partners, community friends, alumni as well as the University’s faculty and staff.
“
6,488
The Greater Than One: Campaign for Students exceeded our expectations in the amount that was raised, the number of overall donors, the number of alumni participants and in the growth of the endowment. This campaign has built a strong foundation for future campaigns.
“
NUMBER OF DONORS:
Dr. Harry L. Williams President
Greater Than One: Campaign for Students campaign committee members join for a photo. From left are Dr. Vita Threatt-Pickrum ’16, vice president for Institutional Advancement; Norman Oliver ’85; Enid Wallace-Simms ’74; Louis “Skip” Perkins, associate vice president and Athletics director; Dr. Harry L. Williams, president; Leroy A. Tice, Esq. ’02, Board of Trustees member; Dr. Bebe Coker; the Rev. John Moore ’05; Renee Du Jean; Dr. Frances Rogers; Dr. Stacy Downing, vice president for Student Affairs; and Dr. L. Germaine Scott-Cheatham ’98 ’03, Access to Success project manager.
New Donor Wall an interactive feature for community The Division of Institutional Advancement has installed an interactive, 55-inch LED touch-screen monitor on the first floor of the Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building. The device will serve as a “Donor Wall” that may be accessed by the public. The Donor Wall provides information about the University, video messages from key administrators, news and coming events that can be updated in real time. In addition, donors will be able to see their names, access thank you messages from students and be apprised of upcoming and ongoing fundraising initiatives. This is a new and innovative service to the Delaware State University community that is primarily managed by the Office of Donor Relations.
The new Donor Wall is located on the first floor of the Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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Giving & PARTNERS
Contributions by alumni, friends total more than $600,000 $450,000 REPRESENTS LARGEST SINGLE ANONYMOUS GIFT FOR SCHOLARSHIPS During two weekends in October, the University received contributions of more than $610,000 from alumni and friends for scholarships and academic support. Philanthropic milestones celebrated during Homecoming were represented by major contributions for five scholarship endowments from individuals, families and organizations: The Pinkett family spearheaded by Jerome Pinkett ’61, his niece, Donna Pinkett-Brown’78 and supported by other family members in tribute to the late Joseph H. Sr. and Leona M. Pinkett ($21,250) John ’75 and Sherri ’77 Ridgeway ($10,000) Phillip Scott ’77 and Deborah Scott ($10,500) Steven R. Ewing ’82 ($10,000) The Wine Psi Phi Social Fraternity, Inc./Beta Phi Burgundy Social Sorority, Inc. ($10,235). Other major gifts in support of student success: DSU student Kailyn Lowry ’17, a Mass Communications major and Teen Mom 2 celebrity, presented $10,000 to be used equally toward scholarships for mass communications majors and departmental support. Tom Joyner Jr., son of the nationally known radio personality Tom Joyner Sr., presented a check of $78,000 to the University from the Tom Joyner Foundation. Capping off the Homecoming presentations was an anonymous contribution of $450,000 from a well-wisher inspired by the growth taking place at DSU. A week prior to Homecoming, Dr. José Saez ’92 and Zona Saez ’92 presented $10,000 to their alma mater to establish an endowment to provide scholarships for Sussex County, Del., students majoring in Elementary Education. The couple’s daughter, Jordan, is a DSU student. 26 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
$150K | THE KRESGE FOUNDATION
Planned Giving
Grant will support HBCU Philanthropy Symposium Delaware State University has been awarded a three-year, $150,000 grant from The Kresge Foundation to support its Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Philanthropy Symposium. The grant will help build capacity for the symposium to identify solutions for some of the most challenging HBCU philanthropy issues. Founded at DSU in 2011, the symposium brings together Institutional Advancement leaders from other HBCUs annually to discuss common challenges. The purpose is to create a consortium of institutions to collaborate and identify
collective solutions that will help HBCUs increase private funding and increase alumni giving participation. DSU will continue working with existing partners like the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) to expand the symposium to include all public and private HBCUs in addition to other minority-serving institutions. The next HBCU Philanthropy Symposium is scheduled for July 19–21. For more information, please visit desu.edu/hbcusymposium.
is a wonderful way to show your support and appreciation for your alma mater. Sign up for our Heritage newsletter Get regular updates about ways to give when you sign up for our free Heritage newsletter in your mailbox or online. Contact us for a Gift Comparison Chart Our Gift Comparison Chart will help you determine which gift might best meet your personal and financial goals. Support your passion Make a gift today to an area of the University that means the most to you. With your support, we can discover new opportunities, inspire others and transform DSU!
$400K | VERIZON FOUNDATION
Grant funds STEM learning program for minority middle school boys The Verizon Innovative Learning Program, funded by a $400,000 grant from the Verizon Foundation, will provide mentorship and hands-on classes in coding, robotics, 3D design and entrepreneurship to dozens of minority middle school boys over the next two years in partnership with DSU. DSU students and faculty with backgrounds in computer science and entrepreneurship will serve as mentors to guide students through the program. Following a summer camp on the DSU campus, the program continues during the school year at DSU and at William
Henry Middle School and Central Middle School from the Capital School District in Dover with special technology days, field trips and after-school tutorial sessions. The Verizon Innovative Learning Program is being administered at DSU by the Delaware Center for Enterprise Development, the Office of Adult and Continuing Education and Summer Programs, and the Office of Annual Giving and Grants. The program began in 2015 at four leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities and is now available in 12 cities across the country to engage young, minority boys in STEM.
For more information, contact: Bryant T. Bell, MBA ’75 ‘94 Director of Planned Gifts 302.857.7771 btbell@desu.edu
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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GIVING THE TOM JOYNER FOUNDATION
School of the Month program raises $96,000 for students Delaware State University served as The Tom Joyner Foundation’s School of the Month for October 2016, raising $96,000 for students. In partnership with The Tom Joyner Foundation, the DSU Foundation appealed to alumni and friends to contribute student scholarship support through mailings, a Phonathon, and outreach to faculty, staff, students and corporations. Efforts throughout 2016 culminated with radio broadcasts in October via the Tom Joyner Morning Show showcasing DSU donors: corporations, the DSU Alumni Association New Castle County Chapter and individuals. Three corporations — M&T Bank, JPMorgan Chase and Delmarva Power — supported the drive for scholarships by donating to the 125th anniversary commemoration. DSU senior Kailyn Lowry’s $10,000 gift during Homecoming was also in support of the SOTM program. In December, additional broadcasts on the Tom Joyner Morning Show and an online appeal by The Tom Joyner Foundation to DSU supporters through its 12 Days of Christmas social media initiative added to the effort’s success. Although the School of the Month program has ended, the need for scholarships for DSU students is ongoing. To make a gift, please visit desu.edu/give.
Jamal M. Phillips
Ian Terry Tcheliebou
William Justice
Kevin Perry
FOUR STUDENTS AWARDED AS TOM JOYNER HERCULES SCHOLARS Four DSU students, Jamal M. Phillips, Ian Terry Tcheliebou, William Justice and Kevin Perry, were each awarded $1,500 scholarships from The Tom Joyner Foundation’s Hercules Scholar Program, which is designated for outstanding male students. Selected by DSU and announced on the Tom Joyner Morning Show, the full-time students were required to have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, demonstrate leadership skills and have performed community service. Phillips, a senior finance and banking major from Bear, Del., currently has a 3.67 GPA. Following his graduation in May, he will work as a financial analyst for JPMorgan. He also plans to pursue a real estate license. Tcheliebou, a sophomore aviation major from the Central African country of Cameroon, currently maintains a 3.57 GPA. He is focusing his major on the professional pilot concentration and has already earned his private pilot license.
Justice, a senior pre-med major from Philadelphia, has plans to be a medical doctor and make a difference in improving health care in underserved communities. At DSU, he is vice president of Rotaract, a member of the Men of Color Alliance and mentors at a local youth center. Perry, a junior accounting major from Alexandria, Va., is an honors student with a 3.86 GPA and plans to become a partner in a major accounting firm. At DSU, he is a member of the football and track teams, president of the Accounting Club and the DSU Chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants. He volunteers at the Boys and Girls Club and the Feed the Homeless Project. Since its founding in 1998, The Tom Joyner Foundation has raised more than $60 million to help keep more than 29,000 students enrolled in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) — which has included more than $900,000 for DSU students.
STAY IN TOUCH WITH ALUMNI RELATIONS In the Loop e-newsletter
302.857.6050
alumni@desu.edu
28 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
desu.edu/ alumni
desu.edu/ stay-informed
DSU Alumni Relations
DSU_AR
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The 2016 President’s Scholarship Ball featured a soulful and engaging performance by gospel/R&B artist and songwriter BeBe Winans, who had so much fun on stage that he extended his performance an additional half hour. Afterward, he was presented with the 2016 President’s Legacy Award.
Delaware State University in December hosted the annual President’s Scholarship Ball fundraiser at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino. Net proceeds from the event benefit student scholarships. TOP RIGHT. Recognized with DSU Community Partner Awards by President Harry L. Williams were, from left, former state Rep. Darryl Scott, alumna Carolyn Golden Hebsgaard ’65, DSU Alumni Association President Sheila Davis ’01, state Sen. Brian Bushweller and Dr. Rebecca Batson ’91, who recently retired as dean of University Libraries. BOTTOM RIGHT. Singer BeBe Winans joined President Williams, left, First Lady Dr. Robin Williams and their son, Austin, right, for a photo during the ball.
Dr. MarkAnthony Henry ’85 served as master of ceremonies during the night.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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1
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3
1. The crowd at Alumni Stadium cheers on the Hornets during Homecoming 2016. 2. Rose Caison Austin ’77, the first female student government president and the Delaware State University Alumni Association (DSUAA) Philadelphia Chapter vice president, joins other Hornets displaying their pride at the Alumni Welcome Home Tent. 3. The Approaching Storm Marching Band heads to Alumni Stadium for the game after the Homecoming Parade in downtown Dover. 4. Members of the Class of 1967 gathered for a reunion during Homecoming in advance of their 50th anniversary celebration, which will be held during this year’s May Commencement weekend. 30 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
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EVENTS
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5. President Harry L. Williams and First Lady Robin Williams, left, greet the Homecoming parade’s grand marshals, Ernest M. “Sammy” Congo Sr. ’67 and his son Ernest M. “Trippi” Congo II ’98, right. Also pictured, center, is Cheris Congo, wife of Sammy Congo and mother of Trippi Congo. 6. DSUAA President Sheila M. Davis ’01 and Vice President Bernard Carr ’77 wave from the Alumni Association’s car during the Homecoming Parade. 7. D’Elegance Alumnae were among the groups featured in the parade. 8. Alumni also showed their DSU spirit through tailgating and other festivities. 9. Alumni cheerleaders joined this year’s squad on the sidelines at the game.
Class of ’66 celebrates 50th anniversary with weekend of activities on campus Members of the Class of 1966 returned to their alma mater during the weekend of May Commencement, sharing memories and enjoying a reception hosted by President Harry L. Williams in their honor and the chance to participate in Commencement exercises. Taking part were Sylvester Anderson, Shereatha Bethel Baines, Sandra Mills Brown, Alice Smith Coleman, Sharon Dixon Drew, Donald Gaines, Nancy Gardner, Jeraldine Harmon, Evelyn Hyland, Robert Jones Jr., Sherita Shelton Mahoney, Janice McCants Miller, Elizabeth Mitchell, Gary Robinson, Francis Sembly, Sandra Harley Smithers, Lamar Turner and Betty Alston Wright.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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EVENTS
FIRST LADY’S HATS AND GLOVES TEA Four Delaware women were recognized for their achievements at the First Lady’s Hats and Gloves Tea, an annual community event and fundraiser benefiting the DSU Honors Program that is hosted by Dr. Robin Williams, the wife of President Harry L. Williams. Honored with the 2017 First Lady’s Hats and Gloves Tea Award were: Dr. Lozelle De Luz — Award-winning entrepreneur, publisher and educator. Bernice Mitchell Edwards — Executive director of the First State Community Action Agency. U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester — The first woman and African-American to represent Delaware in Congress. Alumna Mary Maloy Scott ’55 — The first African-American superintendent of the Smyrna School District. At the event, Dr. Robin Williams announced that in future years the tea will be renamed as the Margaret L. Oliver First Ladies Hats and Gloves Tea in
The co-chairs of the 2017 First Lady’s Hats and Gloves Tea join DSU’s first lady and this year’s honorees for a photo. Seated in front is honoree Mary Maloy Scott ’55. Standing, from left, are co-chair Enid Wallace-Simms ’74; First Lady Dr. Robin Williams; honorees Dr. Lozelle De Luz, Bernice Edwards and U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester; and co-chair Virginia L. Carson.
honor of the late Margaret L. Oliver, the wife of alumnus and former DSU Board of Trustees member Norman Oliver ’85. Williams said Mrs. Oliver’s interest in traveling abroad and giving back to
communities combined to govern her advocacy for young people. As part of the announcement, Mr. Oliver presented a donation of $50,000 to go toward the DSU Honors Program.
PRESIDENT’S PRAYER BREAKFAST Delaware State University held its 6th annual President’s Prayer Breakfast last fall, featuring soul-stirring music from the DSU Concert Choir, uplifting praise and worship songs from guest artist Tammy Trout of the Pentecostals of Dover, and a powerful message by the keynote preacher Bishop-elect the Rev. Norman Hutchins, pastor of Frontline Ministries. Prayers were also offered by campus and ecumenical leaders in the region. President Harry L. Williams presented the President’s Ecumenical Award to the Rev. Lonnie Rector, pastor of Pilgrim Baptist Church of Newark, Del. Williams also used the occasion to posthumously recognize the late Rev. Rudolph W. Coleman, who served as a longtime DSU counselor and chaplain as well as the 35-year pastor of Mount Zion AME Church of Dover, and the late Dr. Richard M. Avant, the 34-year pastor of Calvary Baptist Church of Dover. 32 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
The DSU Gospel Choir provided a soul-stirring performance for guests during the 6th annual President’s Prayer Breakfast. LEFT: Bishop-elect the Rev. Norman Hutchins, second from left, who gave the keynote message at the breakfast, and his wife Lady Karen Hutchins, left, join President Harry L. Williams and his wife Dr. Robin Williams.
Athletics Enhanced Student-Athlete Academic Support Center is unveiled DSU administration and athletics officials took advantage of a regular visit by NCAA representatives to show off the University’s new and improved Student-Athlete Academic Support Center in the William C. Jason Library. The academic support center expansion, funded by the University, played a major role in the NCAA’s 2015 decision to award DSU a $450,000 grant through its Accelerating Academic Success Program (AASP). The NCAA also found that DSU’s institutional goals were consistent with the national organization’s Academic Progress Rate and Academic Performance Program. In addition to an expanded computer lab, the newly renovated center features conference rooms, tutoring cubicles, individual and group study rooms, in addition to staff offices. “Our academic support center is a first-rate facility that improves the student-athlete experience by providing the space and resources to receive objective-based study hall, sessions with academic counselors and mentors, as well as obtain the support needed to succeed in the classroom, earn a degree and become leaders in society,” said Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics Louis “Skip” Perkins.
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
NAJAI POLLARD RECEIVES ALL-MEAC HONORS Sophomore forward NaJai Pollard has been selected to the 2017 All-MEAC First Team. Pollard led the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference in points (18.6), rebounds (9.8) and field goal percentage (54 percent) this season, and she ranked seventh in the nation with 19 double-doubles. She also ranked sixth in the MEAC with two blocks per game. Pollard scored 20 points or more 12 times, including dropping 30 points or more twice. She set a new career high this season, scoring 38 points on 14-17 shooting against Lehigh University. She also had 19 games with at least 10 rebounds, including a career-best 18 rebound performance against Norfolk State. On defense, she had 15 games with two or more blocked shots. She tied her career high twice this season, with five blocks against Wagner and NJIT.
BOWLING
Football
4 HOME GAMES IN 2017 SCHEDULE Visits to two Football Bowl Subdivision powers and the reigning Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference champion, along with four home games at Alumni Stadium highlight the 2017 Delaware State University football schedule. Date Aug. 31
Opponent Delaware
Site Newark, Del.
Sep. 8 Hampton* Hampton, Va. Sep. 16 West Virginia Morgantown, W.V. Sep. 23 NORFOLK STATE* HOME Oct. 7 No. Carolina A&T* Greensboro, N.C. Oct. 14 HOWARD* HOME Homecoming Oct. 21 So. Carolina State* HOME Oct. 28 No. Carolina Central* Durham, N.C. Nov. 4 Nov. 11 Nov. 18
Savannah State* Savannah, Ga. MORGAN STATE* HOME Florida State Tallahassee, Fla.
TEAM WINS MEAC NORTH CHAMPIONSHIP
* Conference games
The Hornets bowling team this spring clinched the 2016-17 MEAC North championship and saw several players achieve postseason honors. Junior Elizabeth Burkholder was named to the All-MEAC Bowling First Team, freshman Alexis Neuer was selected as a MEAC Co-Rookie of the Year, and junior Chelsey Merklinger was an All-MEAC Third Team honoree.
National Signing Day Seventeen high school seniors signed the National Letter of Intent to attend DSU and join the Hornets for the 2017 season. The newest Hornets include two quarterbacks, three offensive linemen, four linebackers, two defensive linemen, three wide receivers, a defensive back, a tight end and a kicker.
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2016 class of inductees is celebrated
D
elaware State’s all-time volleyball kills leader, two former wrestling standouts, a track and field champion and two football defensive greats highlighted the 2016 Hornets Athletic Hall of Fame class. A total of 10 individuals, two posthumously, and five teams were honored during the 2016 Hall of Fame ceremony. JOE BURTON (posthumous) | FOOTBALL
THOMAS DOUGLAS | FOOTBALL
A three-time All-MEAC First Team selection, the league’s 1986 Defensive Player of the Year and a Kodak Division I-AA and Black College All-America honoree, the standout defensive back is third on the Hornets’ alltime list with 19 interceptions.
A key member of the secondary that helped the Hornets to a No. 1 ranking among all NCAA Division II teams in fewest passing yards (64.3 per game) in 1977, the standout defensive back went on to compete in the Canadian Football League.
FRANCKY FRANCOIS | WRESTLING
DR. JEROME HOLLAND (posthumous) ADMINISTRATOR
Francois was a two-time NCAA Wrestling Championship qualifier, earning an automatic tournament bid as East Region 126-pound champion in 1997 and an at-large selection in the 141-pound weight class in 1999.
President of then-Delaware State College from 1953 to 1960, Holland is credited with navigating the institution through the most challenging period in its history.
CLARENCE JORDAN | BASEBALL
CASSANDRA JOYNER | VOLLEYBALL
A former All-CIAA selection and cocaptain of the 1964 team, Jordan helped lead Delaware State to two conference championships (1962-63) and batted .393 as a senior in 1964.
A shining star on the competitive 20062009 teams, Joyner is the Hornets’ all-time leader with 1,272 kills, a two-time All-MEAC First Team selection and the only player in team history with 1,000 kills, 800 digs and 300 blocks.
HAROLD ROBINSON | TRACK & FIELD
SHELTON SMITH | WRESTLING
A four-time CIAA pole vault champion, Robinson broke school and CIAA records to earn the conference championship as a freshman and successfully defended his title while setting new record marks in each of the next three years.
Smith was a three-time MEAC wrestling champion and four-time DSU Most Outstanding Wrestler, in addition to capturing two district titles. Also a football standout, Smith was selected as Delaware State’s 1977-78 Male Athlete of the Year.
JIMMIE & TINA STRONG | CONTRIBUTORS
TEAM HONOREES
The couple has contributed countless dollars, time and talent to their alma mater and have been honored as Distinguished Alumni by the MEAC. The Strongs helped to raise the largest gift ever by a DSU alumni class (1965).
4-time consecutive MEAC champion 1984-87 Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Teams MEAC champion 1989 Baseball Team MEAC champion 2004-05 Men’s Basketball Team Record-setting 1969-70 Men’s Basketball Team
We’re looking for 2017 nominees! Visit dsuhornets.com or call 302.857.6030.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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CHAPTER NOTES DSUAA Chapter Meetings Florida Alumni Chapter
The chapter has conference call meetings the first Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. The free call-in number is 641.715.3580, and the access code is 888-725. Questions? Contact President Arnold Nearn at floridadsualumnichapter@gmail.com or 954.925.7162.
Greater Hampton Roads Alumni Chapter The chapter meets every other second Saturday at 1 p.m. at Dudley’s Driving Center, 2845 N. Armistead Ave. in Hampton, Va. Conference call meetings are held every other second Tuesday at 8 p.m. (Free call-in number: 559.546.1000. Access code: 251316#). Questions? Contact President Al Weal Jr. at mastercook3@cox.net.
Kent County Alumni Chapter The chapter meets the fourth Monday of the month at 7 p.m. on the DSU campus in Room 204 in the Bank of America Building. Questions? Contact President the Rev. Dr. Geraldine Jones at 302.736.6491 or gerryej@aol.com.
New Castle County Alumni Chapter The chapter meets the fourth Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at DSU@ Wilmington on Kirkwood Highway. Questions? Contact President Theressa W. “Tessie” Holmes at 302.229.5909 or tesswholmes@gmail.com.
Philadelphia Alumni Chapter Chapter meetings are held the first Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. at 30 N. 41st St., Suite 400, Philadelphia. Most meetings are done via conference call for financial members. Questions? Contact President Herman Wood at dsuaaalumni2015rep2@gmail.com.
Sussex County Alumni Chapter The chapter meets the first Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Old Landing 11 Community Center, 400 Wilson St. in Millsboro, Del. Questions? Contact President Robert Draine Sr. at 302.947.4580 or draine11@verizon.net.
Greater Washington Alumni Chapter The chapter meets the third Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. at H.D. Woodson Senior High School. Questions? Contact President Robert J. Saunders II at 202.498.2335 or SJR4691@gmail.com.
DSUAA National Conference Saturday, June 10 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. | Delaware State University, Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Parlors
36 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
President Harry L. Williams, center, joined chapter members in Daytona Beach, Fla., in October. From left are Virgil Blocker, Chapter President Arnold Nearn, Sandra Brown, Larry Williams and Past Chapter President Alfred Outlaw.
Florida chapter The Florida Sunshine Chapter hosted its first “coming out social” fundraising activities on Oct. 28-30 in conjunction with the DSU vs. BethuneCookman football game in Daytona Beach, Fla., to raise funds for student scholarships, increase new memberships and enjoy a weekend of fun. The weekend started with a round of golf at the Club of Pelican Bay Course, followed by a reception the same day at the Headquarters Hotel attended by DSUAA Florida members, families, representatives from DSU and DSUAA, the DSU football team and guests from other states. After a quarterly chapter meeting the next day, members and friends enjoyed the football game and another reception at the Ocean Breeze Club Hotel. Chapter members also had a Retreat and Planning Session on January 13-15 at the Wingate Hotel in St. Augustine, Fla., to plan for 2017 Chapter meetings and activities. To connect with Hornets in Florida and around the world, the chapter recently launched a YouTube channel — Florida’s DSU Corner.
KENT chapter Ruth Taylor, Sandra Arnell and Dorothy Cooper joined host and past chapter president Phil Sadler at the Kent County Chapter’s Annual Post Holiday Mixer at his home in January. This covered dish event was planned by chapter members: Janice Hyland, chairperson, Cecelia Dunning, Gregory Hopkins, Martha Hopkins, Peggy Swygert and Sadler. It was a delightful evening with lots of good food and fellowship, and was attended by several new chapter members as well as the usual crowd.
Elected National Officers June 2016-July 2018
NEW CASTLE chapter New Castle County Chapter President Theressa Holmes discusses the chapter’s upcoming scholarship luncheon with the alumni at the January meeting at the Wilmington Police Athletic League. The annual event will be held August 13; more details will be provided later.
President: Sheila M. Davis ’01 dsuaapres2014@yahoo.com
Vice President: Bernard Carr ’77 bwadecarr@aol.com
Recording Secretary: Lakisha Thompson ’01 ’02 dsuaaasstrec@hotmail.com
Assistant Recording Secretary: Theadora White ’98 dsuaars@gmail.com
Treasurer: Veronica Hopkins ’96 vhop655194@aol.com
Assistant Treasurer: Troy Ashley ’96 tashley76@hotmail.com
PHILADELPHIA chapter For seven years, the Philadelphia Chapter has partnered with alumni from Cheyney University, Jackson State University and Shaw University to raise scholarship funds for students attending their universities. The 2017 HBCU Scholarship Cabaret was held at St. Raymond’s Hall in the Germantown section of Philadelphia on March 18 with over 325 people in attendance. Among the DSU alumni in attendance, from left, were Chapter President Herman Wood and his wife, Yvonne; DSUAA Assistant Recording Secretary Theodora White; DSUAA President Sheila Davis; Terri Spivey Tyler; Bernard McNeil; Chapter Vice President Rose Caison Austin; DSU Executive Director of Alumni Relations Marcia Taylor; and Michael Dawson.
Sussex chapter President Harry L. Williams and First Lady Robin Williams, Mr. DSU Tevin Smith and Miss DSU Anjosanlynn Fulgham and members of the royal court joined members of the Sussex County Chapter for its Seventh Annual Holiday Dinner Dance in December.
Alumni Representatives: Herman L. Wood Jr. ’73 (2015-2017) hermwood1@comcast.net
Deborah Street ’86 (2016-2018) ddstreet41@aol.com Chaplain: Rev. Theressa Holmes ’78 tesswholmes@gmail.com
Parliamentarian: Dr. Reba Hollingsworth ’49 rebe_rh_19904@yahoo.com
Chairman of Nominating Committee: Albert S. Weal Jr. ’74 Mastercook3@cox.net
Immediate Past President: Dr. K. Bernard Chase ’72 drkbchase1@verizon.net
Join the DSUAA Visit dsuaa.com to become a member.
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CLASS NOTES 1990s Chris White ’92 in 2016 celebrated his one year anniversary as a State Farm agent in Dagsboro, Del. Additionally, he was recognized as one of the top 25 new agents in the United States for State Farm. At DSU, White was part of the 1989 NCAA recordsetting baseball team that was inducted into the DSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016. Chuck Purnell ’94, who received a Bachelor’s degree in Theater with a Minor in TV Production, has over 19 years of experience working in broadcast television news for ABC. His work has been seen locally and around the world including networks like The Weather Channel, CNN and ABC World News. In 2005, he founded Cre8tive Minds Entertainment, LLC a video production and photography company. Purnell is a 2016 recipient of a Telly Award for Best Cinematography for work his company produced on the Tuner Evolution Car Show. The Telly Award was his fourth to date. Dr. James L. Moore III ’95 received the Distinguished Contributions to Gender Equity in Education Research Award from the American Educational Research Association and published two new books, African American Males in PreK-12 Schools: Informing Research, Policy, and Practice and Black Males and Intercollegiate Athletics: An Exploration of Problems and Solutions. Moore is the EHE Distinguished Professor of Urban Education and executive director of the Todd Anthony Bell National Resource Center on the African American Male at The Ohio State University.
2000s/2010s Viney (Loretta) Moore ’06 is a multi-published author of novels, short stories, plays and essays and has had several musicals and plays presented on stage. Her latest works, two novels, Bottom Tales and Others and The Light of Day were released in 2016 under her pen name, Loretta Moore.
After more than 20 years of service in higher education, Cherita Weatherspoon ’09 recently launched her coaching and consulting practices, Powerhouse Coaching and Mission Critical Consulting. Her coaching services include life and executive coaching and are offered through one-on-one, group and DIY programs. Her consulting work focuses on education and nonprofit organizations serving college-bound or collegegoing students with a focus on improving mission alignment, increasing 38 The Echo www.desu.edu Spring 2017
Dr. Jalaal Hayes ’15 wins HBCU Male Student of the Year DSU made its mark at the 2016 Historically Black Colleges and Universities Awards as December 2015 alumnus Dr. Jalaal Hayes received the HBCU Male Student of the Year Award. Hayes, who proudly received his Doctor of Philosophy degree Dr. Jalaal Hayes ’15, right, is in Applied Chemistry congratulated by President Harry L. at age 22, was the Williams after receiving the award. youngest-ever Ph.D. graduate in University history. DSU also received nominations in the categories of Male President of the Year (President Harry L. Williams), HBCU of the Year, and Best Research Center Award (the Optical Science Center for Applied Research) during the annual HBCU Awards, sponsored by HBCU Digest.
stakeholder support and funding, and improving student outcomes related to matriculation, persistence and success. Her consulting team includes another DSU alumna, Dr. Tamika Patrick Medley ’04 ’12. Weatherspoon also released her first self-published book, GO! 10 Powerful Steps to Accomplishing Your Goals & Living the Life You Desire. Tameka Wingo ’09 and Ariael Brooks-Porter ’15 are members of the 2016 corps of Teach For America, Wingo teaching elementary math and Brooks-Porter teaching middle school English. Teach for America enlists diverse, talented and committed leaders and places them in high-needs classrooms to make an immediate, tangible impact in the lives of students. Through their teaching experience, corps members gain firsthand experience taking on the injustices low-income communities face and become lifelong leaders in the movement to end educational inequity. Mia Richards ’14 is among 62 Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation New Jersey Teaching Fellows for 2016. Richards, who was selected to study at Rowan University in New Jersey, received $30,000 to complete a specially designed, cutting-edge master’s degree program based on a yearlong classroom experience. The highly competitive program recruits both recent graduates and career changers with strong backgrounds in science, technology, engineering and math—the STEM fields—and prepares them specifically to teach in high-need secondary schools. Olivia Manning ’16 is currently representing the state as Miss Black Delaware 2017. Manning will promote her platform — mental health awareness in children and adolescents — throughout Delaware during her reign. She will next compete in the Miss Black USA Scholarship Pageant in Washington, D.C., in August.
India Lee ’15 is a production assistant for CBS-3 Eyewitness News in Philadelphia where she works on the news desk. Lee’s duties include fact checking, writing and running scripts during the broadcast. In addition, the former Hornet newspaper editor-in-chief also works with veteran broadcast journalist, Ukee Washington, the son of Dr. Ulysses Washington, the first chairperson of the Agriculture and Natural Resources department.
Leah Williams, ’15, ’16 was elected to serve as the vice president of the HBCU All-Star Alumni Association, serving a critical role to help promote the excellence, innovation and sustainability of HBCUs while continuing to be an ambassador of DSU. The HBCU All-Star Alumni Association is a newly founded nonprofit organization, working closely with the White House Initiative on HBCUs, and is made up of All-Star students from HBCUs across the country. Williams has also joined Northrop Grumman as a supply chain planning analyst in its prestigious Professional Development Program, which aids in the protection of the United States on land, undersea, in the air and in outer space.
In Memoriam Alumni Christine M. Allen ’87 Catherine Armstrong ’56 Albert A. Baca ’83 Phillip H. Blake ’84 Thomas Boykin ’60 Aaron J. Bratten ’04 Theresa M. Brewer ’85 Curtis L. Coleman ’73 James R. Conaway ’58 Michael B. Custer ’82 Harry W. Downes Brandee Ford ’02 Cleo J. Fountain ’62 Delores P. Gaines ’56 Cheryl L. Granville ’87 Nathaniel Gregory ’97 Charles M. Harris ’61 Berlin N. Hollingsworth ’67 James M. Holt ’84 Joann Hunter ’67 Stephanie R. Jackson ’96 Viola Malloy Johnson ’59 Matthew P. Kropiewnicki ’78 Nancy E. Lopez Richard E. Louden III ’80 Robert D. Masten ’77
12/17/2016 7/4/2016 3/23/2016 4/24/2016 6/14/2016 2/17/2017 12/1/2016 1/23/2016 2/8/2016 6/28/2016 8/2/2016 3/7/2017 11/12/2016 10/28/2016 9/10/2016 7/20/2016 11/13/2016 10/24/2016 5/28/2016 11/3/2016 4/18/2016 10/26/2015 8/13/2016 10/14/2016 6/13/2016 9/22/2016
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Jeannette O. McRae ’75 William S. Meyers ’94 Gregory Newland ’84 Ferdinand Noel ’93 Rebecca Norwood Calandra G. Parson ’01 Merrijane Pierce ’95 Timothy D. Ryan Katherine L. Scheibelhoffer ’69 James Schmidt Samuel S. Seymour ’04 William R. Sherer ’72 Michael K. Sykes ’82 Robert A. Tannis ’77 Prentice C. Tart ’50 James L. Thompson ’79 Hampton H. Trigg Sally A. Van Schaik ’92 Effie M. Walker David K . Wallace ’04 Katrina E. West ’88 Margaret A. Willey ’87 Dolores M. Williams ’67 Lonnie D. Williams ’00 John Wesley Wilson ’65 Woodrow Wilson ’92 Samuel A. Wylie ’65
12/6/2016 9/27/2016 3/13/15 11/20/2016 1/27/2016 12/8/2016 12/21/2016 10/5/2016 7/18/2016 9/1/2016 11/14/2016 2/19/2016 7/19/2016 6/20/2016 3/30/2016 9/9/2016 9/9/2016 11/6/2016 12/10/2016 8/17/2016 11/9/2016 12/18/2016 11/2/2016 9/7/2016 2/19/2017 5/25/2016 10/8/2016
Faculty & Staff Heather Adams ’00
7/30/2016
Samuel Corbin
8/12/2016
Honors Program secretary Former assistant director of grounds
David Leroy Johnson Sr.
Retired mailroom, business office staff
12/18/2015
Michael J. Johnson
8/15/2016
Lenny Knight ’99
3/14/2017
Mary E. Minus ’80
9/14/2016
Dr. Gustav Ofosu
5/29/2016
Paul T. Sandridge
3/26/2016
Dr. Pablo Suarez Joya
6/22/2016
Dr. James Edward Valle Retired professor of history Alex Volpe
2/19/2017
Driver/Fleet Services specialist Assistant band director Retired events coordinator Professor emeritus of biology Retired assistant professor of biology Associate professor of mathematics
4/19/2016
Senior network administrator II
Students Malcolm Evans
7/9/2016
TaeShawn Gray
10/24/2016
Sophomore biological sciences major Sophomore forensic biology major
Email alumni@desu.edu | Visit desu.edu/echo The Echo would love to publish your promotion, wedding, births, anniversary, and retirement information and photos. Share those special moments with your Hornet family. Please include the date of the event and a photo caption.
Spring 2017 www.desu.edu
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Division of Institutional Advancement 1200 North DuPont Highway Dover, DE 19901 Address service requested
Building a legacy for the next 125 years DSU is excited to celebrate 125 years of service and commitment to its students and the community. Through our many undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs, we have been able to graduate some of the world’s brightest leaders. With your gift to support student success, you can help DSU continue to build upon on its legacy for another 125 years and beyond. Please use the enclosed envelope to join the progress with a celebratory gift. Gifts of all amounts will make a difference — your support will open doors of endless opportunities for that young person in pursuit of a college degree.
desu.edu/giving 302.857.6055