The Compass - Spring 2023

VIKING VOYAGE TO THE WHITE HOUSE

by Kristen Bannerman

The discussion on the future of Historically Black Colleges and Universities has unfortunately always been directly related to the lack of funding, policy, student support, and problems related to race. These prevalent issues have been embedded in the knowledge of the American government since the construction of the first HBCU in 1837. However, these misfortunes that plague the HBCU community did not reach attention at the federal level until 1980 under the presidency of Jimmy Carter. According to the U.S. Department of Education, former President Carter put in place the initiative to further advance the prosperity of HBCUs, forever establishing The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Now the voices of HBCUs are being heard more than ever. Those who aid in legislative decisions regarding these issues are products of these institutions and are now advancing the urgency for change.

In light of Black History Month, on February 22nd, 2023, Vice President Kamala Harris a Howard University graduate, alongside Keisha Lance Bottoms a Florida A&M University graduate, and now Senior Advisor for Public Engagement, invited 28 HBCU journalists including Elizabeth City State University to the White House. ECSU student journalist Kristen Bannerman and Professor Clarence Goss Jr. had the opportunity to sit in the briefing to be a part of the conversation discussing issues concerning their beloved campuses. The briefing opened with Keisha Lance Bottoms speaking about her experiences of being enriched at Florida A&M University while sharing a story on how her university’s law department was once uprooted and relocated

to Florida State. To further help prevent stories like that from transpiring, Bottoms ensured journalists of the work that the Biden-Harris Administration is doing for the HBCU community. Bottoms attests saying, “President Biden and Vice President Harris have been very intentional on funding for HBCUs, very intentional on making sure that the voices of HBCUs are heard on this campus. I was just with a group of HBCU Presidents just last week on this campus. There is an entire committee that focuses on HBCUs. We have someone on the administration who leads HBCU initiatives. The money is being given and the input is being sought from HBCUs on how we can continue to be partners.”

Though Elizabeth City State University is a part of the HBCU community, we still are met with a different angle of adversities as we are a smaller institution. One of the problems that affect the illustrious campus of ECSU is the continuous inclusion of our smaller university in the advancements curated for HBCUs, even in the light of our home being state-operated and funded. Bottoms covers this issue with an extensive answer in response to an Albany state journalist who has the same issue on her home campus. Bottoms reinstated the importance of state-funded schools advocating for themselves to their respective state representatives for proper financial support. Bottoms says, “Again, lean in on your representatives to make sure you all are getting the money and the funding that you deserve from the state. And I

think, just finally it’s important that you own your space.”

The dialogue between the 28 HBCU journalists and government officials continued as Bottoms introduced the first black female Vice President Kamala Harris to the briefing to add to the conversation and answer questions of concern. Vice President Harris was greeted with a standing ovation as each of the student journalists expressed eagerness to continue the conversation about the present and future of HBCUs. The discussion took a different direction as the focus shifted to addressing the portrayal of HBCUs in media and politics and racial inequalities in the face of climate change. As a graduate of Howard University and someone who has immersed herself in the culture, Harris gives perspective on what she believes is not portrayed and understood enough about HBCUs in America. Vice President Harris provided insight on how she communicated that her family was a large factor in why she embarked on her journey to the White House, and this included the Divine 9. However, many people in politics did not understand what the Divine 9 was as they were not familiar with this culture that derives from HBCUs. Harris believes that this is an issue as she explained, “People who are covering, who will be the next president and vice president of the United States unfamiliar with the Divine 9. So that’s a quick example of my point, which is sadly there is still a lot that we are counting on you all as leaders and

Vice President Kamala Harris and Keisha Lance-Bottoms addressing HBCU Journalists questions.

Kristen Bannerman, student journalist and Professor Clarence Goss, Jr.

journalists to help us continue to educate the people of our country and our world on who we are as Americans.” Harris believes that knowledge of the Divine 9 has importance because “It’s very much a part of the history of our country.”

The conversation changed from HBCU to the black and poor communities affected by environmental changes. In response to the question about climate change and its relations to racial inequality, Vice President Harris mentions a plethora of examples of how black and poor communities have suffered including Flint, Michigan with the toxic water issue, and Bayview Hunters Point, San Fransisco with their dumping group issues. Harris retracks on her prior years in previous political positions where she was still fighting for change in this area of the American economy. Vice President Harris conveyed her understanding of how racial inequalities and climate change not only affects the environment, but every aspect of the livelihood of black and poor communities. This includes an umbrella of adversities including the health of the residents to the learning abilities of the children in these environments.

Though a great deal of topics related to HBCUs and the black community were discussed, Vice President Harris closed the

briefing by directly addressing the student journalists in the room with words of encouragement. Harris says, “Your voices are so important. You as journalists have such a unique skill, gift, and ability to really be a voice of a voice for so much that is important in our country. So, use your voices and continue to use your voices because we need you.” This White House briefing was a very monumental experience as the voices and student representatives from the black community received the

chance to advocate for change directly with government officials who understand and mirror their backgrounds and experiences. Not only has this event been monumental for the history of America, but for Elizabeth City State University as we were included in this event and conversation. Having our own take-up space in rooms where historically we have not always been accurately represented and advocated for is a blessing, and shows the greatness that lies here in the land of the Vikings. ■

UNIVERSITY NEWS ECSU

2023 Winter Open House

by Serenity Shipp

Elizabeth City State University’s winter open house introduced prospective students to what this campus has to offer. High school students from many backgrounds were welcomed with open arms. This university prides itself on bringing people together and this is shown through the campus’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. With that being said, the event was held on February 11th, 2023, and took place throughout campus of ECSU including the Mickey L. Burnim Fine Arts Center, Williams Hall Gymnasium, and Moore Hall. In the Williams Hall Gymnasium a plethora of tables were set up to highlight different programs that are offered here at ECSU. Some of the tables at this event included Financial Aid, Housing & Residence Life, the Honors Program, the STEM Programs,

Education, TRIO, Counseling Services, Music & Visual Arts, English and Digital Media, and 1704 Media Productions were all showcased. In particular, 1704 Media Productions is a student-led organization which specializes in film production, photography, artwork & poetry, journalism, and media. Serenity Shipp who is a freshman graphic design major and member of 1704 Media Productions says, “Having the opportunity to advocate for this organization alongside my fellow team members was an enlightening experience. Seeing the interest on the students’ faces and hearing their questions about the organization felt uplifting. There were students who wanted to start their own businesses, showcase their artwork, and were interested in writing.” This open house successfully exposed students to the wonderful opportunities, education, and clubs offered to future Vikings joining the ECSU family.

Vice President Kamala Harris speaking to HBCU Journalists.

STUDENT LIFE WHAT IS RAMADAN?

by Trila Diallo-Carson

In the 9th month of the Islamic calendar Muslims across the globe celebrate Ramadan. One may question what Ramadan is, but understanding the historical context first is important. Ramadan began with the Quran being revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (may peace be upon him), during this month Muslims center their focus on further strengthening their relationship with Allah. Ramadan is a very important holiday for the people of Islam, and is the time many learn a lot about themselves and Allah. This year the holiday covers March 23rd - April 21st. These dates are established based on the sightings of the moon which determines when Ramadan starts.

Once Ramadan has begun there are many things those of the Islamic faith do to participate in this holiday. Throughout the month Muslims fast from dusk until dawn which can be very difficult, however it is something that is done to teach self-control and mindfulness while also reinforcing faith and piety. Muslims are able to learn these things because one cannot eat, drink, curse ,lie ,or participate in sexual activities. Also those participating in Ramadan make an effort to stay calm throughout the duration of the month, not allowing anything to provoke an angry or upsetting emotion. It is remembered by followers of Islam that when one is fasting it is important that you are learning more about yourself and Allah.

Fasting is a major part of Ramadan but should not be overdone to the point of sickness. There are certain circumstances that will excuse an individual from fasting such as menstration, pregnancy, or an

illness. A persons decision to fast or not is completely up to them, if for any reason they cannot, that decision is between them and their relationship with Allah which does not need to be discussed with anyone else. However, if one misses a day and would like to make it up there is an opportunity to do so after Ramadan ends.

During this month individuals are expected to be very charitable while doing good deads out of the kindness of your heart such as feeding the hungry or donating money to support those affected by poverty. Fasting and being charitable are both vital factors for participating in Ramadan. If one is doing one without the other with a heart posture that is not pure, it deminishes the point of Ramadan. Having a pure heart while participating in these practices is what makes Ramadan

such a sacred month. After this month Muslims celebrate on a day called Eid Al-fitr. On this day Muslims pray, eat , and celebrate after a month of hard work and sacrifice. Ramadan is a big part of Islamic culture and there are many people who are not educated about that. Hopefully after today you are one more person that has been enlightened on the Islamic faith. If you would like to learn more you have the opportunity to right many know about or understand. Hopefully after reading this information you are one more knowledgeable about our holiday. If you would like to learn more you can contact our Muslim Student Association through Instagram @ecsumsa.

TRADTIONAL VERSUS NONTRADTIONAL IN THE COLLEGE SPACE

by Tracie Jordan

An amazing milestone has just arrived in your life, it’s graduation day! Presented is an opportunity to embark upon becoming an adult and being responsible for your own decisions. When to eat, when not to eat. Where to go, and where not to go. Now deciding your fate has been placed in your hands for the first time since you have left your parents’ home, and furthering your education has been decided. So, off to college you go! Strategizing, planning, and looking forward to the lessons ahead that are going to catapult you right into your future. Having chosen a major of study that will award you a bachelor’s degree of great honor and success. This being described as a Traditional student who attends a college or university straight out of High school. It is like walking out of one door directly into another. You do not stop you just keep going. Therefore, any subjects that you were taught while in High school are still fresh within your memory and more than likely are still there. Depending on your major there would not be required refresher course of any sort. This is because you just graduated from High School.

Then, there are some younger and much older adults who may not choose to apply to college straight out of High School but decides to wait. Adults between the ages of 25 to some well past 50 have and are continuing to decide in furthering his or her education. Depending on where they are in their lives are having to choose between working a full-time job or trade, caring for a loved one as a caregiver, or recovering from a life changing circumstance, etc., or -in some cases –possibly may have quit school and have decided to return to receive an “Adult High School” [GED] education in order that he/she may go further in obtaining a bachelor’s degree. This is what is known as a nontraditional student. At any rate, traditional and nontraditional students can bring a lot to the table. Because they both want to be successful and by doing so decide to further their education. Having lived longer than traditional students, nontraditional students, depending on their level of life’s circumstances, have had to endure more regarding life’s lessons. Yet, choosing to pursue and live on. At the end of the day, both traditional and nontraditional student’s matter.

“However, nontraditional students in some cases may feel out of place or unsure when returning to school. Especially when it has been some years since they last attended. 40 percent of college students within our nation are nontraditional students.” [Education Writers Association] Never should a nontraditional student at any time or for any reason feel less than a traditional student when it comes to his/her level of learning. According to statistics, a varied population of adult students often have responsibilities of work and family or other challenges that may be present within their lives. Also, that are likely to interfere with the completion of successful educational choice objectives such as race, gender, living off campus, being enrolled in an occupational [non – degree] program, or risk of attrition, etc., Less than 2 percent of students who do not graduate or earn a High School diploma or certificate of completion were removed from the analysis because of limited access to a 4-year college or university. Out of that 2 percent, 43 percent delayed enrollment. [National Center for Education Statistics, NCES,IES] Nontraditional students should receive the same opportunities at obtaining a good education as traditional students. However, certain criteria should be taken into consideration when accepting a nontraditional student depending on their course of study from a unique perspective such as:

• Always consider and never assume that all nontraditional students can learn at the same pace as traditional students.

• Many nontraditional students are eager {and some even more eager} to learn but are having to be remotivated within certain subjects. This is of course is where advisors and/or counselors play a major part.

Some nontraditional students who choose to major in certain subjects who feel they are most effective may not remember certain key subjects within their choice of major and may require refresher courses or a beginner’s course. Some may also not have ever been taught the subject at all.

Some suggestive ways in how to address this issue includes:

Colleges and universities who allow the enrollment of nontraditional students should have in place some form of

Acquired Testing specifically for nontraditional students only to see what they may or may not be ready to acquire for development in certain courses for correct placement.

Once it is realized [after being tested] that a nontraditional student cannot complete certain subjects within a major, academically, or other situations beyond their control but, he/she still want to obtain their degree, then it should be decided upon whether the student should be placed within a beginners course or choose another major. It is a frustrating and saddening ordeal to sit within a class where a course is being taught and {even after it is explained} you still have no idea what is being taught or is being taught at a pace that you are having a challenge in keeping up with.

Although nontraditional students are in some cases much older than traditional students, there are many attributes or situations that nontraditional students may have when enrolling or re-enrolling to a college or university such as:

Having just completed an adult High School [GED] education after dropping out of High School prior to college.The nontraditional student was in a degree program but had to stop or delay for various [personal or family] reasons...

• Can only or was attending school part-time.

• Serving as a caregiver for a loved one or family member.

• Being unable to commit to studies within a college or university because of being employed full time.

• Independent monetary assistance with resources and/or finances because of relying on themselves for financial stability or financial assistance being denied or delayed.

Any student, be it traditional or nontraditional who makes a life changing decision to further his/her education in being successful, should be honored in high regard. However, when nontraditional students return, it most certainly should be a mark in history and a celebration like no other. Somehow, it has its own space.

CREATIVE CIRCLE

MEET DFRNT HYPE CEO ANDREW ROSS

by Devon Riddick

When pursuing the world of business, the journey requires a firm understanding of the coordination that takes place to properly run one. This includes tedious details such as proper certifications, legal tax filing, and the marketing promotion of a business. In a Creative’s Circle discussion, Devon Riddick spoke with an ECSU student who is all too familiar with what it takes to operate a business by going through the learning process himself. Andrew Ross is a 21-year-old graphic design major and the creative director for DFRT HYPE which is a street clothing brand and productions LLC. During the discussion hosted by Riddick, the two conversed about the journey of being a creative director and video designer in addition to the key essentials needed to start a successful business.

To give background, Andrew Ross attended Henry. E Lackey High School where he wore a different hat as a studentathlete playing varsity basketball. While he was not on the court, Ross took his downtime to establish his business DFRNT HYPE junior year of high school. The business venture idea was created with friends of Ross who helped brainstorm how to incorporate DFRNT HYPE into their daily lifestyles. During the weekends, Ross was free from being an athlete, so this time was used to invest in the vision for DFRNT HYPE. As the weekends passed, the

evolution of DFRNT HYPE finally came to fruition with the release of the clothing line. The first release of DFRNT HYPE was more than successful due to the brand being sold out in just a few weeks with the help of the community and local supporters! What assisted Ross in the creation of his sought-after designs was the studying of his consumers’ interest in colors and recent shoe releases, using this information to appeal to his customers. Although this was deemed a successful beginning for DFRNT HYPE, Ross immediately began thinking about longevity and the importance of his business changing with time. With that in mind, DFRNT HYPE not only became a clothing brand but a production media outlet that represents the culture. Ross speaks about this transition in an interview stating, “I was able to gain success locally by being a brand, but I wanted longevity. I wanted to become a business and not a brand. A brand is your identity, it is something you are known for. Your business is the legal work: Having an LLC, being trademarked, and filing for taxes.” Understanding the importance of building a business on a firm foundation is what helped DFRNT HYPE maintain stability and allowed for a great transition from producing clothes to also identifying as a production company. This switch in business ventures allowed Ross to create

a space to support photography work, video designing opportunities, and touring different HBCU’s spreading their clothing and business professional knowledge.

What is most important in being a CEO and operating a business is adopting a mindset that will allow you to endure all that is ahead of entrepreneurship. Ross mentions in an interview three mottos that he lives by which are consistency, patience, and selfbelief. Ross says, “Consistency beats skill 100% of the time. Having a goal that you work on consistently will always prevail. Being patient in not only the process but with yourself is key. Understanding that no one is perfect and that things will go left but knowing that it is a process. Having that same patience with yourself will give you a level-headed mindset to achieve everything. Believing in yourself is the most important. Anything can be achieved once your mind and heart are in it.” Though much was shared and learned from the entrepreneurial testimony from CEO of DFRNT HYPE Andrew Ross, the interview ended with an echoing phrase, “Being different is more than a mindset, it is a way of life and the ability to be yourself through any obstacle which excels all fame and popularity, originality always sells.”

PSB CHASE

by Devon Riddick

Art is taken on in the form of several different mediums. However, when it comes to creating, the common goal is the same, and that is to produce diverse innovative projects of art from the artistic space to the musical scene. Historically as human beings, we were all born to be creative, and some take the gift and ability to produce expressive works more seriously than others. In a sit-down interview, Devon Riddick came across the opportunity to meet an individual by the stage name of PSB Chase who takes creating in the musical space seriously.

Chase Robinson is a 21-year-old artist hailing from Columbia, South Carolina. Here at Elizabeth City State University, Robinson majors in business administration where he plans to use his studies to strengthen his advances in his music career and business endeavors. At an incredibly early age, Robinson always enjoyed music, and appreciated the sounds he was exposed to on the radio. It was not long until Robinson decided to fully immerse himself in the music space, as his rap career started in his high school years. Making his senior year of high school a memorable one, he released his first song. In the pursuit of his career, Robinson, better known as PSB Chase has accumulated 150 thousand views allowing the art of Rap to change his life forever.

In an interview PSB Chase heavily discussed the true meaning of creativity and what his own personal creative process looks like. Robinson says, “I try to have a different process when it comes to my music. I try to find the beat first, then my lyrics follow. The right samples and drums are the foundation.” Robinson added that his diversified taste in music stems from his personal sound.

As an artist in college, there are different challenges one may be subjected to, and Riddick explores this with Robinson in dialogue. Robinson speaks from his own firsthand experiences and says, “The main issue regarding music is promotion. Being independent, it is hard to promote yourself and your music. Not understanding the importance of a fan base was a challenge as well. Not understanding who your target is and growing that audience can affect

Donovan Mullen’s Canvas

by Kristen Bannerman

the growth of an artist.” Even though Robinson has faced hardships, music has assisted him in making transitions in life, especially the one made when transferring from Ohio to attend Elizabeth City State University. Coming to an unfamiliar environment all Robinson had was music to help him adjust to the new scene. Music became not just a hobby but a safe haven for his emotions as this has been reflected in his art. His musical gifts helped him gain friendships that benefited the promotion of his music and exposure amongst artists in the Carolinas. The connections created and maintained helped Robinson and allowed him to build a friendship with Etavian Stokes, another student at ECSU who helped him co-found and innovate 4 The Thrill. 4 The Thrill is a local festival created to not only bring artists in the Carolinas together, but also to provide an outlet needed for these artists to succeed. The two held their first festival last summer that brought out talented local artists including ECSU’s own, Swante and KayKartel.

At the end of the interview hosted by Devon Riddick, Robinson left innovators, artists, and creators with advice that could help them advance in their artistic avenues. Robinson says, “Keep moving forward, stay strong throughout the process. There is always light at the end of the tunnel but enjoy the darkness. Enjoy the hardships because it helps you grow an be resilient throughout chasing your goal. But also, be yourself, it is highly important to stay unique and build yourself organically.” Robinson, better known as PSB Chase, plans to have more music, videos and behind-the-scenes footage released with the goal of growing a bigger fanbase. You can find PSB Chase’s music on multiple platforms such as Spotify, Sound Cloud, Apple Music, and YouTube. ■

Elizabeth City State University is home to some of the most prolifically talented graphic designers, photographers, musicians, writers, and artists. Our students embody what it truly means to have a love and connection to their talents and produced crafts. The environment successfully created here on this campus gives students the room to thrive in their artistic expressions. One student who has displayed the true meaning of artistry is Donovan Mullen who is a senior graphic design major right here from Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Donovan began his embarkment on pursuing art on November 14th, 2006, where he recalled staying home from school due to feeling ill and was given a creative assignment by his father to draw a picture of a portrait of a celebrity, from here his talents took off.

Donovan gained his footing in artistry by drawing cartoons, but his father challenged him to stretch his abilities by encouraging him to illustrate pictures that display realism. In the home, Donovan drew his artistic inspiration from his family because they are all creators. In an interview, Donovan says, “My dad is a long-term artist, my brother is an artist and professional photographer, and my mom writes children’s books. So, my family is a big reason why I push so hard not only in art but in everything I do.” Donovan also takes inspiration from the artists that he follows, which is also part of his daily routine. He was advised by a financially successful creative to, “Wake up every day religiously and look at what people are doing in your field who have made it already.” This evolution in his mindset has aided him in his success of being featured in multiple art galleries, starting his own business and organization, to spreading his talents and messages to his community. To learn more about Donovan Mullens’s amazing story click the audio link below.

A Night of Hip Hop

by Quanisha Clemons

To conclude the enriching time of Black History Month, Elizabeth City State University in collaboration with artist-in-residence Patrick Douthit, better known as 9th Wonder, hosted a Community Connections Performance and Lecture Series. This event titled “Beats, Rhymes and VOICE: A Hip-Hop Experience” was centered around black music culture and took place in the Mickey L. Burnim Fine Arts Center. Throughout the afternoon there was a host of mater classes where students were able to connect with members of Jamla Records and gain insight into the music industry. Vikings were given the opportunity to share their own music and receive feedback from leading influencers in the industry such as 9th Wonder, Kash, Khrysis, and E. Jones. Students also had the option of taking crash courses with the first one being a rhythm and beats class which covered beat production and education on different music software. The second master class focused on lyricism and writing, here students were able to share their lyrics and learn how to curate a flow over a beat while learning the value of expression within music.

This event was also successful with the help of students and staff who aided

in hosting the event. Quanisha Clemons and Tyrell Houghton helped warm up the crowd as 9th Wonder began spinning throwback music as faculty entered filling the seats. Clemons says, “This was my first-time hosting something on a larger scale, I was super honored yet nervous because of the large crowd but an amazing experience at the same time.” Once the program started, Clemons and Houghton opened the show by welcoming all guests and participants for the night. The first opening experience started with the beat battle where participants who signed up went head-to-head in a battle over a one-minute beat. Participants were

then evaluated by a panel of judges who would decide on who advance to the next round. Producer RJ Dusse ended up being the winner of the beat battle portion of the program. The next event of the night was the cypher, participants could engage in a rap battle for 1 minute each. The winner of the rap battle cypher was Pvilleju who gave an amazing performance enjoyed by all Vikings in attendance.

As the program concluded students were in for a treat as they were able to witness a live concert from Jamla Record’s own upcoming artist Ruben Vincent. Students were able to connect and learn more about Vincent’s music during his 15-minute concert that concluded the program. Clemons reminisces on this night and says, “To be able to host this program was truly an honor because of the endless opportunities that this has brought forth. Being able to be in a room with 9th Wonder and members of his record label and being able to share the projects I am currently working on was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I will always cherish and be grateful for.”

VIKING SPORTS

ECSU HOSTS THE 5TH ANNUAL ROBERT L VAUGHAN BORDER CLASH HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL INVITATIONAL

by Serenity Shipp

of teams competed in a tournament of eight games. There were fourteen different basketball teams here on the campus of ECSU, stretching from Perquiman County High School to Grassfield High School.

school to participate in the next Border Clash High School Basketball Invitational, be on the lookout for dates, signups, and times in January 2024!

The 5 th Annual Broder Clash High School Basketball Invitational was held on Monday, January 16th, 2023. This community event consisted of a variety of boys’ basketball teams who came together from the North Carolina and Virginia areas to showcase their athletic skills. Given the environment, competition was in fact at an all-time high as a plethora

Theprimary focus of this event was to accumulate exposure for state high school athletic programs and open the opportunity for schools to grow their fan base on a larger scale platform. To capture the essence of the community-driven event, a live stream was hosted by WRVS-FM 89.9 and W18BB-TV with assistance from Maya Cole who is a video production specialist, alongside a team of ECSU students. Not only was this event supported by WRVS-FM 89.9 and W18BB-TV but also by sponsors from diverse communities. These sponsors included; Black Voters Matter, F&H Print Sign Design, Maxell & Marcia Brown, St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church, and many more. If you want your home high

photo courtesy of WRVS 89.9

Elizabeth City State University’s literary/art magazine.

Showcasing the talented works of ECSU’s creative writers and visual artists.

Poem I LOVE YOU BLACK WOMAN

By: Devon Riddick

I love you Black Woman, Your existence created us all

Creating the meaning and the purpose

Instilling in us and nurturing each second

Dependable more than any Without you, there isn’t me

Your aesthetic completes every fantasy

Your love isn’t a hoax

Your feelings aren’t minuscule

The knowledge she possesses is absolute

Knowing little bounds

A creature made with perfection

A fossil of love and tenderness

You complete me Black Woman

Delivering life in the Men who talk

Creating love in the animals who walk

She gives me the will to see

To view the World in fluidity

Every second of life is dedicated to you… Black Woman

Serenity Shipp

BE A VOICE FOR ECSU

THE COMPASS CREATIVES

Chief Editor: Kristen Bannerman

Creative Director: Amore´ Resto

Creative Assistant: Serenity Shipp

Assistant Editor: Serenity Shipp

Faculty Editor: Dr. Karen Strother-Jordan

Contributors: Kristen Bannerman, Serenity Shipp, Tracie Jordan, Devon Riddick, Quanisha Clemons, Trila Diallo-Carson

Staff Photographers: Mariah Thompson, Aaron McNeill Jhatiana McMurrin, Jared Page

Photography Contributors: Andrew Ross, Chase Robinson