Hampton University's Office of Alumni Affairs and Parent Relations | April 2024 Newsletter

CONTENT

ON THE CAMPUS

Hampton University

Announces ‘24 Commencement

Speaker: Dr. Howard-John Wesley of Alfred Street Baptist Church | HU Hosts gOD Talk Documentary Film Tour, in Partnership with Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and Pew Research Center | Hampton Appoints Three Esteemed Alumni to Key Leadership Positions

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Hampton Renames its Proton Cancer Institute, Reflecting Renewed Focus on Research, Advocacy, and Access, and Unveils New Brand and Visual

Identity | The 54th Annual Hampton Jazz & Music Festival

Reveals New Name and Line Up Featuring Grammy AwardWinning Headliners

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

Hampton University’s Hosts 42nd Annual Conference of the Black Family and Honors First Family

04

UPCOMING EVENTS

Commencement | Reunion Weekend | Minister’s Conference | NHAA, Inc.

Hampton University Announces 2024 Commencement

Speaker: Dr. Howard-John Wesley of Alfred Street Baptist Church

Hampton University announces Dr. Howard-John Wesley, pastor, Alfred Street Baptist Church, as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2024, taking place on Sunday, May 12, 2024, 10am at the Hampton University Convocation Center.

Dr. Howard-John Wesley is renowned for his inspirational leadership, unwavering commitment to community service, and dynamic oratory skills. As the senior pastor of Alfred Street Baptist Church, located in Alexandria, Virginia, Wesley has touched countless lives through his impassioned sermons and dedication to social justice initiatives.

“We are honored to welcome Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley as our 2024 Commencement Speaker,” said Hampton U. President Darrell K. Williams. “His exceptional leadership and dedication to empowering others resonate deeply with our university’s values and mission. We are confident that his message will inspire and motivate our graduating students as they embark

on their next chapter.”

Wesley has previously donated $25,000 to Hampton U. and is an annual participant in the Hampton University Minister’s conference.

Under Wesley’s leadership, Alfred Street Baptist Church has grown into one of the largest and most influential congregations in the nation, known for its commitment to serving the community and fostering spiritual growth. His dynamic preaching style and emphasis on social activism have garnered widespread acclaim, making him a highly sought-after speaker and thought leader.

The commencement ceremony promises to be a memorable and uplifting event, celebrating the achievements of Hampton University’s graduating class and inspiring them to pursue excellence and service in all their future endeavors.

Hampton Hosts gOD Talk Documentary Film Tour, in Partnership with Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture and Pew Research Center

On Wednesday, March 27, Hampton University collaborated with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) and the Pew Research Center to host the gODTalk Documentary Film Tour at HU showcasing the acclaimed film directed and produced by Dr. Teddy Reeves ‘08, a distinguished alumnus of Hampton University and the Curator of Religion for NMAAHC. The screening was free and open to the public.

The evening began with an invitation-only reception in Clarke Hall from 5:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., providing attendees with an opportunity to engage with fellow guests and esteemed speakers. Following the reception, the screening of gOD-Talk: A Black Millennials and Faith Conversation took place in Ogden Hall. The documentary offers a compelling exploration of faith among Black millennials, providing insights into

their perspectives and experiences.

Concluding the event, a brief panel discussion was held from 9:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., featuring Dr. Reeves alongside several distinguished Hamptonians who were prominently featured in the film.

The collaboration between Hampton University, NMAAHC, and the Pew Research Center underscores a shared dedication to advancing conversations surrounding faith, identity, and culture. Through initiatives such as the gOD-Talk Documentary Film Tour, these institutions aim to facilitate dialogue, inspire reflection, and celebrate diverse perspectives.

Hampton University Appoints Three Esteemed Alumni to Key Leadership Positions

Hampton University proudly announces the appointment of two esteemed alumni to significant leadership roles within the institution. Matthew White ’07, a distinguished graduate and former director of University Relations, assumes the position of assistant vice president for Alumni Affairs. Concurrently, Brint Martin ’99, another distinguished alumnus, transitions to the role of deputy director of Athletics for Facilities and Event Management aimed at elevating fan engagement within the Athletics Department.

Matthew White brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role as assistant vice president for Alumni Affairs. With a proven track record in marketing and a deep understanding of alumni relations, White is poised to strengthen the bonds between the university and its alumni community.

Similarly, Martin’s appointment underscores Hampton University’s commitment to enhancing the overall fan and student athlete experience. Martin’s creative expertise and passion for Hampton University will bring tremendous value to the growth of our athletic programs.

“We are proud to announce the newest addition and updates to our Hampton University family,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “First and foremost, these Hamptonians love our Home by the Sea. Matthew White brings a wealth of experience and passion to his role as assistant vice president for Alumni Affairs, while Brint Martin’s transition to deputy director of Athletics for Facilities and Event Management underscores our commitment to elevating the

Hampton experience.”

Pamela Richardson ‘83, formerly the director of Marketing for Athletics, assumes a pivotal role as director of Parental Relations for Alumni Affairs. Richardson’s extensive background in marketing combined with her commitment to fostering meaningful connections will further enrich the engagement between the university and its alumni families.

“Pamela Richardson’s dedication and expertise make her the perfect fit for her new role as director of Parental Relations for Alumni Affairs,” said President Williams. “Our former Miss Hampton 1983 brings years of dedicated

service to this position.

“These appointments mark an exciting chapter in Hampton University’s ongoing pursuit of excellence and innovation. As we continue to advance our mission of providing the ‘#1 Student Experience in America,’ we look forward to the valuable contributions of Matthew White, Brint Martin, Pamela Richardson, and all members of our esteemed alumni and athletics communities. Together, they exemplify the spirit of excellence and innovation that defines the Hampton experience.”

Hampton University Renames its Proton Cancer Institute, Reflecting Renewed Focus on Research, Advocacy, and Access, and Unveils New Brand and Visual Identity

Hampton University made another bold move to leverage technology, luminary researchers and multidisciplinary collaboration, underscoring its dedication to accelerating cancer research and care. The focus on bridging the gap between proton therapy radiation and cancer treatment methodologies highlights its commitment to pushing the boundaries of medical innovation.

Formerly known as the Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute, the Hampton University Proton Cancer Institute (Hampton Proton), the nation’s eighth proton therapy facility, has set the standard for excellence in patient care and cutting-edge treatment. In line with its commitment to compassionate care and innovative research, Hampton Proton has introduced new branding to address

patient needs. All marketing, advertising, and activities supporting this renewed focus will reflect the new name. An advertising campaign communicating this change launched on March 18 across all channels and markets.

“In this next chapter for our facility, we reaffirm our dedication to research, advocacy and access,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “The new name reflects our comprehensive focus on cancer care and research, emphasizing our commitment to innovation and excellence. This renewed focus presents incredible potential to improve patient outcomes, regardless of their zip code, and possibly reshape medical history.”

Embracing Core Values: Research, Advocacy and Access

Research: Hampton Proton is built upon decades of innovative nuclear and physics research that has allowed the center to make strides in delivering proton therapy and cancer treatment. The center’s contributions to research have positioned Hampton Proton to lead numerous qualitative studies and clinical trials that allow for greater patient outcomes, in addition to reducing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to this life-saving treatment. As the only proton center owned and operated by a historically Black college and university (HBCU), the facility is uniquely positioned to deliver culturally competent care to underserved communities.

Advocacy: The institute actively collaborates with legislative and governmental bodies to propose and pass legislation aimed at eradicating health disparities and eliminating insurance discrimination, advocating for and ensuring equitable access to state-of-the-art care for all individuals.

Access: At the forefront of Hampton Proton’s mission is the unwavering dedication of its staff to delivering precise, noninvasive proton therapy radiation treatment with compassionate care. The center recognizes the significance of ensuring equitable access

to this innovative treatment for all who would benefit.

“I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to make Hampton Proton a leader in the field of proton therapy,” said MaryBeth Sullivan, executive director of Hampton Proton. The name change and associated rebrand reflect our comprehensive approach to cancer care and highlight our ongoing pursuit and dedication to providing innovative and compassionate care to those battling cancer, and support to their families.”

Summoning the Symbols of Success

The new Hampton University Proton Cancer Institute brand builds on its longstanding expertise and the 155-year legacy of excellence and innovation at Hampton University. The logo has been refreshed to highlight key elements that make the facility a unique treatment center that continues to draw patients and staff from across the globe.

“I am thrilled to steer the next chapter in Hampton Proton’s story,” said Tiffany Rodgers, director of marketing at Hampton Proton. “We have solid values and enjoy tremendous goodwill within our region. We aim to build on that relationship to further energize and inspire healthcare as we move into the future. The new name and logo represent an exciting evolution of the brand, evoking an emotional connection to the work and the people we serve, and acting as a powerful symbol of the foundational pillars of our institute.”

The new brand elements will be rolled out across all company materials, products, packaging and branding assets over time. Visit: www.hamptonproton.org.

The 54th Annual Hampton Jazz & Music Festival Reveals

New Name and Line Up Featuring Grammy AwardWinning Headliners

Jon Batiste, Kem, Boyz II Men, Ledisi, Coco Jones, Boney James, Brian Culbertson, and more!

The Hampton Jazz Festival is returning this summer from June 28 – June 30 with an exciting lineup, a fresh look, and a new name: The Hampton Jazz & Music Festival. Tickets for all performances go on sale on Saturday, March 23 at 10:00 a.m. at the Hampton Coliseum Box Office or ticketmaster.com.

The 54th Annual Hampton Jazz & Music Festival, co-presented by the City of Hampton, Hampton University, and the Santangelo Group, Inc. and hosted by smooth jazz radio show host and jazz enthusiast Jay Lang, promises a dynamic fusion of genres, broadening the festival’s appeal across diverse age groups.

The annual festival has brought the best of jazz, pop, blues, soul, and R&B to the region since its first show on the campus of Hampton University in 1968 as part of a one-time celebration of the institution’s 100th birthday.

“We have been building off of the success of that first show with lineups that honor our music legends, introduce new artists, and celebrate the rich variety of sounds and styles from around the country,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “This year’s festival will continue the tradition of bringing a signature blend of world-class artists, solidifying its place as a “must-stop” destination on the summer festival trail.”

The Jazz Festival rebrand reflects a commitment to redefining the live performance experience, promising a truly unforgettable festival for all attendees.

“This is a nod to the changing times and will keep people excited to attend the festival for many years to come,” said Joe Santangelo, festival co-promoter. “The new name reflects the broad diversity of music that we are bringing to our fans – young and old – from jazz and R&B to funk and more.”

According to organizers, the rebrand signifies a crucial milestone in the growth of the festival.

“The last weekend in June brings thousands of visitors who travel to see the talented artists on stage,” said Hampton Coliseum Director Terri Vander Vennet. “The economic impact of the festival reverberates throughout the City of Hampton. The familiarity of this festival spans generations and reunites friends and family from across the country. We are excited about expanding the music genres and building a bridge between new artists and new festival goers.”

The festival, which has hosted every major jazz artist of this and previous generations, features a vendor fair, food trucks, and pop up shops showcasing small and local businesses from near and far.

“We are proud to have helped present this festival for decades,” said Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck.

“The City of Hampton is proud to be home to many cultural offerings but none as historic as this jazz and music festival. Restaurants, hotels and businesses of all sizes experience the economic boon that’s driven by our local and visiting musicloving guests.”

Featuring a roster of more than two dozen musical groups, including festival debuts, the confirmed artists for this year’s Jazz Festival are as follows:

FRI., JUNE 28, 7:30 p.m.

KEM

Ledisi

Kingfish

Special EFX All-Stars

SAT., JUNE 29, 7 p.m.

Boyz II Men

Coco Jones

Boney James

Kustom Made Band

SUN., JUNE 30, 2 p.m.

Jon Batiste

Brian Culbertson

October London

The Fuzz Band

The ticket prices are structured to be accessible to a broad range of audiences, and are priced at $115, $105, and $95. Additional fees may apply. Prices are per ticket, per day.

Jazz Festival patrons can receive additional information by calling 757.838.4203 or www. hamptonjazzandmusicfestival.com. Travelers interested in lodging information should contact the Hampton Visitors Center at 1.800.800.2202.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

Hampton University’s Hosts 42nd Annual Conference of the Black Family and Honors First Family

Hampton University’s School of Liberal Arts and Education hosted the 42nd Annual Conference on the Black Family. The conference, themed “Elevating Black Families – Actualizing the Vision of the Beloved Global Community,” took place from March 20th to March 22nd, 2024 on Hampton’s campus.

The Annual Conference on the Black Family serves as a platform for scholars, community leaders, educators, and advocates to convene and discuss pertinent issues facing Black families globally. This year’s theme, “Elevating Black Families – Actualizing the Vision of the Beloved Global Community,” underscores the importance of fostering unity, resilience, and empowerment within

Black families worldwide.

The programs took place in different places on campus, including Ogden Hall, Armstrong Hall, and the HU Student Center.

The conference featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, workshops, and presentations exploring various aspects of Black family life, including education, health, economics, culture, and social justice. Attendees engaged in meaningful dialogue, shared best practices, and collaborated on innovative solutions to uplift and strengthen Black families.

“We are honored to host the 42nd Annual Conference

“We have always been inspired by the sermonic sensibilities of Dr. King, said Malone-Colon. “And this year’s slate of programs and dynamic presenters are all dedicated to realizing King’s vision for the beloved community through knowledge sharing, guidance, and real-time support and insights provided to all

conference participants.”

Several featured presenters/speakers include: Rainbow PUSH CEO Rev. Dr. Freddy Haynes (Friendship West, Dallas TX), Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III, pastor, Chicago’s Trinity Church of Christ, Rashan “DJ Envy” and Gia Casey, Lamman and Kelly Rucker, Dr. Bradford Wilcox, director, National Marriage Project and professor, UVA, Andrew Billingsley, family scholar and 8th president of Morgan State University and many more.

Watch the this video honoring the First Family HERE!

14 on the Black Family at Hampton University,” said Linda Malone-Colon, dean, HU School of Liberal Arts and Education and Principal Investigator, National Center for Black Family Life. “As a beacon of academic excellence and cultural heritage, HU is committed to advancing the well-being and prosperity of Black families everywhere.

Upcoming Events

REV. MARRISA FARROW

REV. DR. RAQUEL LETTSOME REV. DR. OTIS MOSS III

CONFERENCE PREACHER

REV. DR. FREDERICK DOUGLAS HAYNES

REV DR. HOWARD JOHN WESLEY DR. CYNTHIA JAMES REV. DR. SHAREKA NEWTON

Expressing through the Arts: Ashley Johnson ‘25 Teaches Children Love

for Dance and Cheer

by Keah D Moffett ‘09

For many, the arts are a way to express yourself in ways you couldn’t otherwise. Future Alumna Ashley Johnson ‘25 uses cheer and dance not only as an escape for herself but also as a way to connect with young children.

Johnson is a third-year psychology major with a concentration in family and marriage studies from Bear, Delaware. She has been dancing for 17 years and cheering for six years, both in high school and college, and is a proud Blue Thunder cheer team member.

“To me, dance and cheer are an escape from all the world’s chaos. When I dance, I forget about all my problems and become one with the music. Dance and cheer are also a way of fellowship between people, and that’s what I love the most: bonding with people who love the same thing as me.”

Johnson not only dances and cheers at Hampton, but she also teaches local children her moves.

“Teaching dance and cheer specifically to children and children with disabilities has been one of my favorite things to do in life. I want all children to experience the love I have for dance and cheer and reap the benefits from dance and cheer that I have as well, whether that be scholarships, new friends, or even a career out of it. “

This experience has enriched Ashley, and she is very proud of each little dancer’s accomplishments. “Getting to know each little dancer and their story has helped me become the young woman I am today. Kids teach you things you don’t learn from adults or your peers.”

Ashley advises everyone to keep fighting for themselves. “There is literally nothing you can’t do; just put your mind to it and never give up, no matter how hard things get!”

by Keah D Moffett ‘09

Emily Jackson, better known as EmmoLei Sankofa’s journey to becoming a nominee for the NAACP Image Award for Original Score for TV/Film for “The Other Black Girl” was not an overnight success but years of hard work and dedication.

EmmoLei’s love for music began when she was young, as both her parents were musicians. Her mother put her and her sister in the church choir at age two, and they grew up singing in the choirs until high school. She started playing the violin in second grade and switched to saxophone and drums in middle school.

Middle school also was when she fell in love with composing. “I had a friend who made a song for a social studies project that we had to do, and he was the only person who had presented his project in this way. And after he presented, I’m like, ‘How did you make that?’ So he showed me FL studio. I went home that day, told my dad, and he got me to the entry-level version. From there, I just kind of composed music and produced music. Like, I was

just making a lot of things on my own.”

When EmmoLei got to Hampton University, a professor encouraged her to look into film scoring.” Doctor Thomassetti, who was over the music recording department then, suggested that I look into film scoring after hearing one of my assignments for one of the projects we had where we had to compose music. And he was like, ‘You know, this is really cinematic. You should you should look into film scoring and just, you know, kind of see where it takes you.’”

EmmoLei attributes Hampton as being a breeding ground for her creativity.“Hampton was definitely an interesting breeding ground because while I was in Hampton, there was the nerve going to say there was Earthgang, there was Jabriel, like all of these people that I’m like next to and trying to produce music for.” During this time, EmmoLei learned many valuable lessons from networking and served as an engineer or producer for projects, but she didn’t find it fulfilling. “I just knew I’m like, there’s something, it’s like an itch I have to scratch.” In her senior year, she interned with a company called Seven Cities Media, where she did music for a trailer and learned about how commercials and things were done. After graduation from Hampton, she graduated from SCAD in sound design.

After years of work, she is a nominee for the inaugural Original Score category for the TV/ Film category. Other nominees included Laura Karpman for “American Fiction,” Branford Marsalis for Rustin, Kris Bowers for The Color Purple, and Jongnic Bontemps for Transformers Rise of the Beasts (winner). She was the only Black woman and the youngest nominated. “I literally feel like the new kid on the block.”

“Film scoring is still something many people don’t know much about. And for a long time, when you think about a film composer, you think about specific people like John Williams or Hans Zimmer. These people can’t even fathom a black woman or a black person or an Indian– they can’t even process that someone other than a white guy could be in the mix. And even sometimes when I tell people I’m in music, film, and TV, they’re like, ‘Oh, are you a producer? You’re a rapper?’ It’s like,’ No,

I’m a film composer. I’m a film and TV composer.’”

As she walked the red carpet, she took in everything. “Be present, look around, embrace it. There was a time when I was like, ‘Man, I’m trying to get here. I’m trying to get to this level.’ And I had to look around, and I’m like, ‘Yo, okay. I’m here.’ So now, okay, where do you go from here? And it’s like, you just keep going. You keep going up, and you keep delivering. You keep doing great work and just keep expanding.”

EmmoLei’s creativity and passion for music run in the family. Her little brother David is also a talented musician and architecture major at Hampton University. David serves as the Drum Major in the Hampton University Marching FORCE, and they will celebrate his graduation on Mother’s Day, 2024. “He was literally in first grade when my parents dropped me off at band camp my freshman year. So just like the full circle moment, I’m like, yo, that’s crazy.”

EmmoLei’s success inspires everyone who wants to pursue their passions and achieve their dreams. Her story reminds us that dedication and hard work can lead to great things, and we should never give up on our dreams. Watch “The Big Score” featuring EmmoLei Sankofa HERE!

Alumni Highlights

Congrats to Alumna Patience Peabody ‘03 on her New Position

Congratulations to Alumna Patience Peabody for her promotion to President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Book Trust. Peabody brings 20 years of experience to the national organization that ensures book access and ownership for more than 60,000 students annually. Peabody brings extensive management and strategy experience in the nonprofit, philanthropic, and government sectors to her leadership role with Book Trust. Read More HERE!

Congrats to Alumnus Nikkolas Smith ‘08 on his Educational Mural

Congratulations to Alumnus Nikkolas Smith for his partnership with Ben & Jerry’s and director Ava Duvernay.

Her most recent film, Origin, explores how different cultures throughout history have created social hierarchies, or castes, and the toll that takes on people’s humanity. Duvernay and Smith are working together to ensure that young people have the opportunity to engage with banned books.

Read More HERE!

Congrats to Alumna Marcia

Milton ‘80 on her New Position

Congratulations to Alumna Marcia Milton ‘80! NAMO newly appointed her as their new chairperson.

Marcia joined the UMA Board in 2000 and served as a member of the Board of Directors for several years. She remains active in the Maryland Motorcoach Association, the National Association of Motorcoach Operators, and the American Bus Association.

The NAMO Board is excited to welcome Marcia to the board as the first female chairperson and looks forward to her leadership as she “Takes The Wheel.”

Congrats to Alumna

MG Janeen Birckhead ‘91 on Her Honor

Congratulations to Alumna MG Janeen Birckhead ‘91 on becoming a Class of 2024 U.S. Army’s Women’s Hall of Fame member at the Military Women’s Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery on March 21st.

Major General Birckhead joins Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, Anita Dixon (HU Class 1985), and the Honorable Tia Johnson (HU Class of 1980), a member of the Women’s Hall of Fame Class of 2023.

Ivan Thomas Named New Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Hampton University

The announcement of Ivan Thomas as the new head men’s basketball coach marks the dawn of an exciting chapter for Hampton University Basketball. With a rich coaching background, including a recent tenure as associate head coach at Georgetown, Thomas brings a formidable blend of experience and expertise to the program. His appointment, revealed by Director of Athletics Anthony D. Henderson, Sr., reflects a strategic move towards fostering excellence on and off the court.

Henderson highlights Thomas’s proven track record across various basketball realms, from successful high school coaching at Kecoughtan and T.C. Williams to impactful roles within collegiate and AAU circuits. “We are excited to welcome Ivan Thomas back home as our head men’s basketball coach,” Henderson said. “He has a deep commitment to excellence and is a proven winner at the high school, AAU, and collegiate levels. He is

a tremendous recruiter who has developed players throughout his career. As a native of Virginia, he has strong ties to the Hampton area and has a vision of how to build Hampton basketball into a championship program. He understands the commitment it takes to be successful on the court and the role athletics can play in developing young men.”

This sentiment resonates throughout Thomas’s coaching journey, punctuated by notable milestones such as his instrumental roles at Providence College under Ed Cooley’s leadership, where he contributed to multiple postseason appearances and NCAA Tournament berths. His responsibilities included recruiting, in-game coaching and player development. He spent eight seasons as a part of Ed Cooley’s Providence College staff before following Cooley to Washington, D.C. a year ago. The Friars made six postseason appearances including five NCAA

Tournament berths. His return to Virginia, his home state, symbolizes a homecoming of sorts, aligning perfectly with his vision to elevate Hampton basketball to championship status.

In addition to the Director of Athletics’ remarks, Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams also shared his thoughts on the hire of Ivan Thomas, further solidifying the excitement surrounding this new era for Hampton basketball:

“We are thrilled to welcome Ivan Thomas as our new head men’s basketball coach,” President Williams expressed. “His exceptional coaching pedigree, combined with his dedication to player development and community engagement, align perfectly with Hampton University’s values. Ivan’s vision for the program’s future, coupled with his deep-rooted ties to Virginia, makes him an ideal leader to guide our student-athletes to success both on and off the court. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will have on our basketball program and the entire Hampton University community.”

The Norfolk, Va., native spent seven years as head coach at Hampton’s Kecoughtan High, leading the team to a 127-60 mark and to Peninsula District championships in 2010 and 2012. Thomas was the head coach at T.C. Williams High in Alexandria, Va., where he led the team to a 75-9 mark, winning three league titles. He was named Virginia Coach of the Year in 2008 after guiding the Titans to the state title. He was head coach at Edison High in Alexandria, Va from 2002-05 and got his first coaching job as an assistant at Schaumburg High helping lead the team to the 2000 state championship. He also spent 13 years as an AAU coach for the Boo Williams 17-U team.

Beyond his coaching accolades, Thomas’s personal and academic achievements further attest to his dedication and leadership. With degrees from VCU and George Mason, and a distinguished coaching history, Thomas

embodies the holistic approach necessary for shaping young athletes into wellrounded individuals.

“I am honored and humbled to return home to the 757 as the head men’s basketball coach at Hampton University,” Coach Thomas expressed. “My journey in coaching has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for developing young athletes both on and off the court. Hampton holds a special place in my heart, and I am committed to building a championship-caliber program that reflects the values of this esteemed institution. Together with our dedicated staff, talented student-athletes, and the unwavering support of the Hampton community, I am confident that we will achieve great success and leave a lasting legacy.”

Moreover, his family ties and community connections underscore a deep-rooted commitment to Hampton’s basketball legacy. Alongside his wife, Dr. Jennifer Miles-Thomas, and their three children, Christopher, Taylor, and Jordan, Thomas is poised to not only lead on the court but also serve as a mentor and role model within the community.

With his proven expertise, unwavering dedication, and a clear vision for success, Thomas is primed to carve out a legacy of excellence, uniting the Hampton basketball community in a shared pursuit of greatness. Read More HERE!

Tamisha Augustin Named Hampton’s Head Women’s Basketball Coach

The Hampton University women’s basketball team launches a new era by hiring Hampton native and University of Florida associate head coach Tamisha Augustin as the next head coach of the Lady Pirates. Her appointment heralds a momentous occasion for the university and the local community. With a rich background in basketball, coaching, and player development, she brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to nurturing talent on and off the court.

Augustin, the 10th head women’s basketball coach in Hampton history, brings a distinguished resume to the position. Augustin’s basketball journey began at Bethel High School. She then excelled at Alabama A&M, where she was a two-time All-SWAC performer and served as a four-year team captain. After her playing days, she ventured into coaching, accumulating experience at various levels of basketball.

Augustin’s coaching career spans nearly two decades and includes roles at multiple universities and the NBA

G League. She has served as an assistant coach and a recruiting coordinator at prestigious programs such as Arizona, Mississippi State, Florida, Minnesota, and Virginia Commonwealth University, among others.

“Throughout her career, Tamisha has earned the reputation as an innovative teacher of the game, an exceptional recruiter and evaluator of basketball talent, as well as being extraordinary in player development,” Director of Athletics Anthony D. Henderson, Sr. said.

“She has an excellent coaching pedigree and has been ultra-successful everywhere she’s been. She brings a passion for the game and, as a former player herself, understands what it takes for our student-athletes to be successful on the court and in life. I couldn’t be more excited for our young ladies to have the opportunity to develop under her leadership.”

Augustin returns to her hometown after working under Coach Kelly Finley at Florida. In her first season as an assistant coach with the Gators, Florida advanced to the WNIT quarterfinals in 2023. In 2024, she was

promoted to associate head coach and helped lead the Gators to the SEC Championship quarterfinals with wins over Missouri and Vanderbilt before losing to Mississippi. The team earned an invitation to the WBIT, falling to St. John’s.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tamisha Augustin back to Hampton, Va., and Hampton University as our new head women’s basketball coach. Tamisha’s exceptional coaching pedigree, combined with her deep roots in the Hampton community and her unwavering commitment to player development, make her the perfect fit for this role,” stated President Darrell K. Williams. “Her track record of success at every level of the game, coupled with her passion for mentoring student-athletes, aligns perfectly with Hampton University’s mission of academic and athletic excellence. We are confident that under Tamisha’s leadership, the Lady Pirates will continue to thrive both on and off the court, and we look forward to the exciting journey ahead.”

Throughout her coaching tenure, Augustin has been associated with success on the court. She has been part of teams that have reached the NCAA tournament, including a memorable run with Arizona that saw the Wildcats advance to the championship game in 2021. Her coaching philosophy has yielded impressive results, with athletes under her tutelage garnering conference honors and national recognition.

During her time in the NBA G-League, Augustin was part of a coaching staff that oversaw nine call-ups, demonstrating her ability to develop players and prepare them for the next level.

At Florida, Augustin played a pivotal role in recruiting top-tier talent, aiding in the signing of three McDonald’s All-Americans and two Jordan Brand Classic participants. Her ability to attract standout players underscored her influence within the basketball community and contributed to the program’s success.

Focusing on player development, she was instrumental in coaching Cate Reese, a two-time All-Pac-12 honoree and Naismith Trophy candidate at Arizona. She helped Arizona’s Dominique McBryde become the first player in school history to shoot 50 percent from the field and 40 percent from three. She led the team in both categories. At Cincinnati, she helped Iimar’i Thomas earn AAC Freshman of the Year honors.

Augustin is a proven elite recruiter who helped sign three Top 100 players and two top transfers during her two years in Arizona while laying the foundation for the sixth-best recruiting class in the nation. She played a crucial role in the signing of two-time Gatorade National Player of the Year Lauren Ware, as well as transfers Bendu Yeaney and 2020 ACC Sixth Player of the Year Trinity Baptiste.

At Minnesota, Augustin helped groom All-Big Ten Second Team honoree Carlie Wagner and All-Big Ten Honorable Mention selection Kenisha Bell. At Central Florida from 2014-16, Augustin helped bring in a class that included two players who earned AAC honors. Additionally, Augustin was instrumental in the signing of the Knights’ 2016 top-ranked recruiting class, according to Dan Olson’s Collegiate Girls Basketball Report. While at Marshall in 2012-13, she signed a top-100 recruit for the Thundering Herd. While at South Carolina State from 2010-12, she helped tutor a pair of all-conference selections, Whitney Wiley (2011 second-team All-MEAC) and Cabriel Duren (2012 MEAC All-Rookie) and signed a JUCO All-American in Brittany Cochran.

“I want to thank President (Darrell K.) Williams and Director of Athletics (Anthony D.) Henderson, for their leadership and trust in me to lead this program. Returning to my hometown of Hampton to lead these young ladies is a dream come true for me. I am incredibly honored and excited to have this opportunity to contribute to Hampton University Athletics’ rich tradition and mentor the talented student-athletes here,” stated Augustin. “My journey in basketball has been shaped by the values instilled in me by this community, and I am committed to fostering a culture of excellence both on and off the court. Together, we will strive for greatness and build a legacy that honors the spirit of Hampton.”

On the education front, Augustin earned a bachelor’s degree in biology in 2005 and a master’s in microbiology in 2007. She also earned a master’s degree in education from Regent in 2010.

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Washington

Commanders Dance and Band Auditions

The Washington Commanders are hosting auditions for their band and dance team for the upcoming season.

Command Force (Washington Commanders Dance Team)

April13-16th at Commanders Field

https://www.commanders.com/command-force/auditions

Marching Band

April 6-7th at PGCC

https://www.commanders.com/stadium/2024/audition-info

With final exams on the horizon, we’d like to remind you about the FREE TUTORING available to HU undergraduate students through our partnership with Knack - the ultimate peer tutoring platform. Similar to Uber, Knack’s platform allows students in need of tutoring services to book sessions from verified Hampton peer tutors, while providing high-achieving students the opportunity to become verified Knack Tutors.

Learn more about Knack in THIS VIDEO!

Tutoring is free for all Hampton undergraduate students, but YOU MUST SIGN IN WITH YOUR HAMPTON EMAIL! Our peer tutors offer tutoring in nearly 200 courses in most major disciplines. Knack Tutors are fellow Hampton students who have previously aced the courses they offer assistance in; tutoring sessions can take place in-person or online. To view available tutors and courses covered, visit hamptonu.joinknack. com and create a free account using your HU email address.