Issuu

1 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

CONTENT

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

01 ON THE CAMPUS

Hampton University Dean Julia Wilson ‘Brings Home the Goods’ from Hollywood for Her Journalism & Communications Students

Hampton University Shines at its Annual Community Gala

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

HU President Darrell K. Williams Releases 2022-2023 Annual Report | President Williams Chats with FAMU President on SALA Series Podcast | Pirate Weekenders Save the Date

04 PHILANTHROPY

HU President Darrell K. Williams, and First Lady Myra Williams, Donate $100,000 to the University | HU President Darrell K. Williams Releases First Annual Philanthropy Report to Recognize Pacesetter Giving, External Partnerships and Inspire the Next Generation of Philanthropists

January Newsletter, by the Office of Alumni Affairs and Parent Relations oaa.hamptonu.edu 2 THE HAMPTONIAN

YOUR “HOME BY THE SEA”

05 UPCOMING EVENTS

06 ALUMNI FEATURES

07 YOUNG ALUMNI

1868 | Annual Giving

All Roads Lead Back to Home: Media Maven Turned Recipe Developer, Alex Hill ’10 Changes The Game in Food Creativity | Justin Shaifer, A Hampton Alumnus Leading Black Scientists into the Next Millennium

Hampton Alumna and Now Emmy Award Winning Journalist, Leslie DelasBour Takes Kansas by Storm

08 ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS

09 SPORTS

Hampton University QB Chris Zellous Featured on CAA’s “On the Campus”

3 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

On the Campus

Hampton University Dean Julia Wilson ‘Brings Home the Goods’ from Hollywood for Her Journalism & Communications Students Aspiring Hollywood screenwriters, television and film producers, directors and actors at Hampton University will no longer find themselves “California dreaming.” Through Dean Julia Wilson’s strategic outreach and leadership prowess, Hampton students will now be able to access Hollywood. Wilson recently returned from Los Angeles after being selected for an Alex Trebek Legacy Fellowship by the Television Academy Foundation, the producers of the Oscars and Emmy awards TV programs. She is one of only 12 professors from all U.S. colleges and universities tapped for the fellowship program to participate in its annual Media Educators Conference. Wilson said, “By way of Interstate 40, it’s 2,697 miles from Hampton University to Hollywood, Calif. And for thousands of aspiring journalists, actors, screenwriters, film directors and wanna-be producers who live miles from fabled Tinsel Town, that distance might as well be a million miles. But now, they can more directly connect

4 THE HAMPTONIAN

with Hollywood’s top power brokers.” “Dean Wilson continues to keep our students apprised of the latest emerging digital media trends and open doors to internships, mentorships, and scholarships,” said Hampton University Pres. Darrell K. Williams. “We congratulate her for being selected for the Alex Trebek fellowship and look forward to our students and Hampton University benefitting from the valuable information she’s gained.” The fellowship bears the name of longtime Jeopardy! host Alex Trebek and provides financial support to attendees to cover registration fees, travel and hotel accommodation for the conference. Preference was given to attendees from minority-serving institutions. Wilson also has received a complimentary one-year Television Academy academic membership and the opportunity to screen Emmynominated movies and other programs in advance of their public release.

SCRIPPS HOWARD IN HOLLYWOOD L to R: JoAnn Alfano, Executive Vice President of Current Programming at Universal Studios; Deborah Pratt, Executive Producer of Quantum Leap; and Julia A. Wilson, Hampton University dean and Trebek Legacy Fellow at the Television Academy Foundation in Hollywood, Calif.

“Meeting Emmy Award-winning producers and industry leaders was an extraordinary experience,” said Wilson, who has served as dean of the SHSJC since September 2021. “After networking with David Eilenberg, the head of content for Roku on opportunities to monetize streaming platforms, meeting Deborah Pratt, executive producer of “Quantum Leap” to discuss the art of pitching and the future of creative jobs and the critical nature of data research and visualization, I have much to share with my students and faculty.” Hollywood also has been a pioneer in using computer graphics, data analytics, robotics and artificial intelligence. The Media Educators Conference was held at the Academy’s North Hollywood Saban Media Center campus Oct. 24-27. Its aim was to connect college classrooms with the television industry by giving media professors access to curriculum-enhancing seminars on the latest in the art, science and business of television with prominent leaders in show business.

5 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

Community Engagement

Hampton University Shines at its Annual Community Gala

Hampton University held its 2nd Annual Black Tie Community Gala, Elevating Community Excellence Together, on Friday, December 1st at 7 PM. Everyone from all departments on campus was in attendance to come together as one and enjoy a night of holiday cheer and festivities. The program began with a blessing of the meals by our Founding Dean & Chaplain of the School of Religion, Rev. Dr. Debra L. Haggins. As the night progressed, Scripps Howard School of Journalism & Communications Dean Julia Wilson & WHOV Radio Personality Jay Lang hosted the event. Adding to the holiday flair, sounds were performed by the Hampton University Choir, conducted by Omar Dickenson,

6 THE HAMPTONIAN

and a beautiful array of violinists who played as they walked around the event space while guests were dining. First Lady Myra R. Williams did the honors of counting down as we lit the Christmas Tree, bringing joy to all. President Darrell K. Williams provided his remarks and thanks to all of our sponsors and announced a new merger in collaboration with Christopher Newport University. The program ended, and dancing began as attendees fled to the dance floor. Better by Tuesday, graced the stage for a show-stopping performance. We hope all who attended enjoyed and look forward to next year’s event!

7 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

President’s Corner

8 THE HAMPTONIAN

Erunt peri natem quas aut eic to tem fugitaet loremsr space moenis arum cus lore.

HU President Darrell K. Williams Releases 2022-2023 Annual Report In the first year of a historic leadership transition, Hampton University President Williams has focused on honoring tradition while pushing ambitiously into the future. With campuswide priorities in mind, along with the strategic vision outlined by the “Elevating Hampton Excellence” Strategic Plan, Williams set his sights on engaging with university partners to drive increased student enrollment, retention, and graduation rates, as well as public/private partnerships, stakeholder engagement, faculty and staff development, and resources. Grounded by a commitment to the importance of a residential liberal arts education and to preparing graduates to address the pressing needs of communities in the Hampton Roads area and beyond, President Williams delivered his first annual report at the Fall Board of Trustee meeting. The Annual Report – which spans July 2022 to June 2023 – provides an overview of the University’s progress in key areas, including its academic mission, campus life, research, and financials. The report is rooted in optimism and perseverance and captures the spirit, community, and intellectual energy of the Hampton University community. A digital version of the Annual Report is now available. “The report tells the Hampton University story,” said President Williams. “It details innovations and progress and celebrates student achievements. Our students can have confidence in a commitment and dedication to their success on the part of every University employee and faculty member.” View the 2022-2023 President’s Annual Report here.

9 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

President Williams Chats with FAMU President on SALA Series Podcast

Be sure to check out President Williams appearance on the @SALASeries Podcast hosted by @DalenCuff and @McNuttMonica. Click to listen here:

10 THE HAMPTONIAN

11 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

Philanthropy

HU President Darrell K. Williams, and First Lady Myra Williams Donate $100,000 to the University

Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams, along with his wife, First Lady Myra Williams, demonstrate their commitment to the continued growth of Hampton University by generously donating $100,000 to Hampton for the second year in a row.

04 12 THE HAMPTONIAN

In conjunction with the recent National Day of Giving, the President and First Lady’s philanthropic gesture aims to support academic excellence, advance the University’s mission and spark the spirit of giving in others. “The First Lady and I are delighted to give back

to our “Home by the Sea,” said HU President Williams. “We remain both personally and professionally dedicated to delivering the number one student experience in America. We hope this will inspire others to give.” The funds will be allocated to: • Grow the Darrell K. & Myra R. Williams Scholarship Fund, awarded annually to psychology students • Support the renovation of the Mansion House, the oldest structure on campus • Increase other philanthropic causes at the University

Ret. U.S. Army Gen. Williams has completed his first year and a half at the helm of Hampton and during that time has implemented a 10-year strategic plan, “Elevating Hampton Excellence,” completed phase one of a campus face-lift in which eight buildings were newly renovated, increased enrollment and boosted the morale of faculty, staff and students. The President and First Lady are both esteemed alums of the University, both class of 1983, the first alumni couple to serve in this capacity.

13 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

HU President Darrell K. Williams Releases First Annual Philanthropy Report to Recognize Pacesetter Giving, External Partnerships and Inspire the Next Generation of Philanthropists Today, Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams released his first annual Philanthropy Report which captures the increase in transformative gifts, record-breaking engagement, and the institution’s expanded philanthropic landscape. The report reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing Hampton’s financial position and increasing operational excellence. Because tuition does not cover all the expenses of a university, funding comes from sources beyond students’ tuition, room, and board each year. We benefit from the philanthropy of our alumni and partners in many ways, from covering financial aid and operational costs and subsidizing tuition to reducing reliance on the government, funding research, and improving the overall quality of education at Hampton. Building a Culture of Philanthropy “We are building a culture of philanthropy, that’s embedded in transparency and accountability. It is my vision to create an environment in which everyone— advancement team, faculty, students, parents, staff, and alumni—understands how they play a role in raising funds in support of our shared mission of delivering the #1 student experience in America,” said HU President Darrell K. Williams. “The Philanthropy Report reflects our community’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and empowering the next generation of leaders.” The report introduces the Samuel Chapman Armstrong Giving Society, a new pacesetter initiative that spotlights

14 THE HAMPTONIAN

the giver, their giving philosophy, their ties to the university and their testimony about the impact of their giving which includes: • •

•

Helping maintain and enhance the quality of education and research. Making higher education more accessible, shifting the recruiting process on talent, rather than financial means. Fueling research and innovation that can lead to breakthroughs in various fields, benefiting not only the university but society at large. Renovating campus facilities, including state-ofthe-art laboratories, the Harvey Library, and the Student Center that can help enhance the learning environment. Establishing endowed chairs and professorships, attracting top-tier faculty and experts to the university which raises the quality of education and research. Serving as an employer of choice and a source of economic activity in this region.

•

Supporting cultural and arts programs that benefit both the university community and the broader public through concerts in Ogden Hall, art exhibitions in the University Museum, and performances across campus. • Providing long-term financial stability, ensuring that Hampton can continue to fulfill their missions for generations. • Allows Hampton to have a global reach, fostering international collaborations and partnerships. “An engaged community that’s rooted in philanthropic values is at the heart and soul of everything we do,” said Evelyn Graham, vice president for Advancement and External Engagement. “Philanthropy is powerful, self-sustaining, and enables entirely new possibilities. The generosity of our community and the dedication of our donors are propelling Hampton University to new heights.” To view the digital version of the Philanthropy Report, click here.

15 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

Upcoming Events

16 THE HAMPTONIAN

NHAA, Inc.

17 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

All Roads Lead Back to Home: Media Maven Turned Recipe Developer, Alex Hill ’10 Changes The Game in Food Creativity

Alumni Features

06 18 THE HAMPTONIAN

With early beginnings of being in the kitchen, it was no doubt that Hampton Alumna Alex Hill ‘10 would make a complete 360 and find her way back to her roots. Meet Alexandra Hill, a PR and Media maven turned recipe developer and now the host of Spice Spice Baby on Tastemade. Alex fell in love with food early on in life from watching her mother in the kitchen. “My mom taught me how to cook and was so effortless in the kitchen. And I really just took a liking to that. Like, I wasn’t the kid in sports, like when I was attached to my

Alex Hill ‘10 has successfully combined her education in PR and marketing with her passion for food. Despite her parents’ initial discouragement of her culinary dreams, Hill pursued her love for cooking and started a food blog in 2017. mom when I was younger.” Alex initially wanted to pursue culinary school out of high school; however, with her mother’s guidance, she followed the path of a fouryear school, ultimately Hampton University. Alex earned her Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Marketing from Hampton University and thrived in her studies, but the deep desire to create food still rang in her heart. So, in 2017, Alex started a passion project food blog called “Just Add Hotsauce,” which later blew up to an astounding 70K followers on Instagram and an international reach of millions of food enthusiasts worldwide. As a self-proclaimed Recipe Developer, Alex approaches food in an easy and attainable way for her viewers. “I think that’s what a lot of people always say. Like, you make cooking seem easy and fun. And, like, that’s my goal because I know my audience is black women, and it’s a majority of black women. And between the ages of 27 and 40. And, you know, they’re looking for food that are recipes that are easy and like still flavorful and like if, even if you’re a single girl or a mom or a divorcee like you guys are all going to cook my recipes because you, you find it like attainable and stuff like that. So that’s what I pride myself on my recipes.” With aspirations of creating a cookbook and cooking show, the future is very bright for Alex Hill as she is now the host of Spice Spice Baby on Tastemade. “I mean, you know, you, like, you manifest, and your

dream, and you write down the recipe, or you write down like what you want, and your journal, and you pray, and all of those things. Like, did I know it was going to come this year? No, but did I know it was going to happen to me? Yes. Because that is how much I have faith in myself and God and like in my manifestation.” Becoming a household name and in every woman’s home is one of Alex’s top priorities in her dreams, coming to fulfillment. When we asked Alex how Hampton University has impacted her career, she shared, “Like, I think it’s so important to go to HBCU, to experience HBCU homecoming, to have friends that went to A-H-B-C-U. Like it was the most important and best decision of my life, if I did not go to Hampton, I would not have the network or the friends I have, like though those are my sisters, um, and my brothers.” In sharing her last sentiments, Alex offers to those with a dream deferred, “You’re still a creative even if you’re not creating right now. And I think that’s important because life happens, and life is messy, and life is life. And so it’s kind of like always remember like, just because you took a pause does not mean you’re not a creative anymore.” We hope that others will see Alex as an example of how life brings all things full circle and that your dreams never stop until you’ve completed your mission.

19 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

Justin Shaifer ‘16: A Hampton Alumnus Leading Black Scientists into the Next Millennium Justin Schafer ‘16 founder of Fascinate Media, discusses his journey in the field of science communication. He was inspired to create Fascinate Media during his time at Hampton, where he realized the need for exposure and inspiration in the science fields. Justin Schafer ‘16, a marine and environmental science graduate of Hampton University, founded Fascinate Media, a STEM-based media company. His inspiration for creating the company came from realizing the need for exposure and motivation in science, particularly among younger students. He started his journey by hosting science shows for PBS and Discovery Channel but soon realized that he needed to own the company to have the desired impact. “I think it’s an exciting 20 THE HAMPTONIAN

challenge to be either a black-owned company or work with other black-owned companies that have made shows for networks like PBS. One of the initiatives we made a show for was the grant funded by the National Science Foundation, advancing informal STEM learning. And with this grant, they asked us to make shows for target demographics that

don’t traditionally have interest in stem, which is exactly what our whole mission is as a company.” He moved to LA to transition from highlighting STEM to scaling up his media company. Fascinate Media creates educational content for underrepresented demographics, mainly black and brown audiences. They aim to make STEM topics more accessible and exciting by addressing subjects like hair curvature and skin color in ways that resonate with these audiences. Their goal is to build their audience and create educational and entertaining content, focusing on science fiction concepts that inspire and educate. Justin credits Hampton University for teaching him leadership skills and providing the platform to develop his public speaking and communication abilities. He believes that personal branding is crucial in today’s world and that building a solid brand and network is essential for success. He also emphasizes the importance of building systems and routines to stay productive and motivated, even when lacking motivation. Being listed in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list was a full-circle moment for Justin, as he had

attended the Forbes conference as a young entrepreneur and felt inspired by the successful individuals he met there. “You know, it’s kind of a full circle moment. I mean, um, you know, when I was 17, I was like 20, no, I’m sorry. In 2017, I attended the first Forbes conference, um, my first one, the 30 and 31. And I was overwhelmed with how popping everybody was there, and I was just like, dang, what am I doing with my life? Like, I had that feeling <laugh>. And I remember feeling a little discouraged. Um, but I met a lot of the listers that year who then became my mentors. And some of them recommended me for the Forbes list this year.” He sees it as a validation of his hard work and a reminder to stay focused on his mission. Justin encourages current and former Hampton University students to embrace their creative genius and explore untapped fields where their unique perspectives can make a difference. He believes that they can excel in any industry with the confidence and skills gained from an HBCU education. Overall, Justin is grateful for his Hampton University experience and the support he has received from the HBCU community. He plans to continue making an impact in the STEM and media fields and hopes to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.

21 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

Young Alumni

Hampton Alumna and Now Emmy Award Winning Journalist Leslie DelasBour Takes Kansas by Storm

Leslie DelasBour ’19, Hampton Alumna and Emmy-winning journalist, discusses her career journey and the factors that influenced her decision to pursue journalism. She attributes her success to her love for community service, honed by her parents’ involvement in humanitarian work and her natural aptitude for reading and writing. DelasBour also credits her time at Hampton University, particularly the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications, for providing her with the necessary tools and connections to succeed in her career. She advises aspiring journalists to be authentic, take initiative, and not be afraid to make mistakes. In the future, Debo hopes to return to her hometown, Houston, to anchor and engage in community service. She also aspires to host her talk show or work on a network show. Hampton University is commonly known as the foundation of many alums’ successes. The same rings true for Hampton Alumna, c/o ’19, Leslie DelasBour, a journalist and now an Emmy award winner. Growing up, Leslie shared that her strong suits were not in math and science, but she had a deep yearning and passion for reading, writing, and being a part of the community via humanitarian work. “My parents were

22 THE HAMPTONIAN

involved in the community in my hometown of Houston, Texas. And so with that, all I’ve known my whole life is helping others through humanitarian work. That’s what my dad was known for his humanitarian efforts, philanthropic efforts, and all that kind of stuff. So, for me, I wanted to do the same thing just in a different light.” Said DelasBour. DelasBour shared her journey and experiences in journalism and explained that growing up around humanitarian work, she wanted to make a difference in people’s lives through storytelling. DelasBour emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and not letting others’ opinions define one’s worth or capabilities. DelasBour works as a reporter in Kansas City and teaches broadcast journalism to kids at a small black private school in Kansas City. “It started as a volunteer thing, but then I fell in love with just being there with the kids, so it became like a once-a-week

thing or, you know, when, whenever I can go, but I go once a week. On Fridays, we’ll have class and stuff, and they love it. It’s the time of their lives because I bring all my equipment and whatever. And I really bonded with them and created a good relationship with them.” Said DelasBour. She encourages aspiring journalists to pursue their goals, take initiative, and believe in themselves. Leslie also highlights the impact of Hampton University and the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications on her career, providing her with the necessary tools, connections, and support to succeed. She expresses gratitude for her opportunities, including winning an Emmy and covering national events. Leslie’s future aspirations include anchoring in Houston, hosting a talk show, and working on documentaries for major networks. She hopes to continue giving back to the community and mentoring aspiring journalists.

23 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

Alumni Highlights

Congrats to Alumna LCDR Kiley Relf, ‘13 on Her Promotion Congratulations to LCDR Kiley Relf, U.S. Coast Guard HU ’13, for being promoted and her recent selection as a military aide to the Vice President. LCDR Relf entered the Coast Guard from Hampton University through the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative (CSPI) scholarship program, where the Coast Guard pays for up to the last two years of tuition and books and receives E3 pay and allowances as a full-time student. LCDR Relf is also a 2020 Forty Under 40 Alumni Recognition Society member.

24 THE HAMPTONIAN

Congrats to Alumna Nia Harbour ‘18 on Her New Position Congratulations to Alumna Nia Harbour. She recently passed the California Bar Exam and was sworn in as an attorney in the State of California. She works as an Associate Attorney at Phillips Spallas & Angstdat in Los Angeles, CA, where she practices civil litigation law.

Congrats to Alumnus Dr. Kent L. Willis ‘15 on His New Position Congratulations to Dr. Kent L. Willis on his new role as the next vice president for the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management at Fresno State. Willis’ first day in his new position is Jan. 3. Willis currently serves as assistant vice president and associate dean of the graduate school at the University of Texas at Tyler, where he has been since 2018. Before that, he was with the University of Texas Health Science Center at Tyler, serving in various academic and student affairs leadership roles. Willis received a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Stephen F. Austin State University, a master’s degree in secondary education from East Central University, and a Ph.D. in educational management from Hampton University.

Congrats to Alumna Desiree Jones ‘18 on Her Book Congratulations to Alumna Desiree Jones ‘18 on launching her debut book, “Hey, Nice to Meet You: The Networking Manual,” a guide designed for creatives to build and maintain valuable networks. “Many creatives excel in their art but struggle with connecting and communicating effectively to retain clients, solidify partnerships, and collaborate with other creatives,” says Jones.” They also face challenges applying these communication skills in corporate and professional environments.” Jones, a creative herself, founded her video editing company, PromoJones, at Hampton University. During her time at Hampton, she collaborated with musicians, photographers, DJs, organizations like the National Panhellenic Council, her sorority, the Rho Alpha Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and various small businesses on and off campus.

Congrats to Alumna Dr. Latonya Dickerson Hughes, PhD, RN, NHA ‘91 ‘99 on Her New Appointment Congratulations to Dr. Latonya Dickerson Hughes on her appointment by the Governor to serve on The Board of LongTerm Care Administrators for the state of Virginia (a nine-member board of non-legislative citizens). Dr. Hughes, Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs at Hampton University, is well-diverse in healthcare regulatory compliance and has served in several healthcare leadership roles, including a national healthcare accreditation surveyor with The Joint Commission, inspecting over 200 healthcare facilities across the United States.

25 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

Congrats to Alumna Delanie West ‘94 on Her New Position Congratulations to Alumna Delanie West ‘94 on her election to the position of Advocacy Liaison for the Graphic Artists Guild. West’s dedication to the field of graphic design and her commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of graphic artists have earned her this esteemed role within the Guild. West, a candidate for the MBA program at the Whitman School and a distinguished alumna of Hampton University’s Graphic Design program began her journey with the Graphic Artists Guild in 2020 when she joined as a member and quickly immersed herself in the community. Over the years, she has demonstrated her passion for the industry and determination to contribute to its growth and prosperity. Read more about West HERE.

26 THE HAMPTONIAN

Congrats to Alumna Dr. LaRhonda Nicholas ‘93 on Her New Position

Congratulations to Alumna Dr. LaRhonda Nicholas ‘93 on her new position as Deputy Director for the Intelligence Advanced Research Project Activity (IARPA) --the science and technology research arm of the Office of Director of National Intelligence (ODNI). Read more about Dr. Nicholas HERE.

Congrats to Alumnus Carl Holland ‘85 on His Honor Congratulations to Alumnus Carl Holland. Holland, second vice president of Client Management, Employee Benefits Sales at The Standard, was recently honored as one of 30 BlackStars Award recipients for 2023. He joined an esteemed list of trailblazing individuals who have demonstrated success in their careers, standing out for their achievements and contributions within the corporate landscape. Selected from an impressive pool of more than 700 national nominees, the 30 BlackStars represent a distinctive group of exceptional leaders who positively transform the face of leadership. From visionary C-suite executives to rising stars across various industries such as tech, insurance, finance, health care, and law, the award winners are paving the way for future generations. View the complete list of 2023 honorees at www.30blackstars.com

Hampton University QB Chris Zellous Featured on CAA’s “On the Campus”

Sports

Hampton University’s Quarterback, Junior Chris Zellous, was recently featured on CAA’s “On Campus” football features. The profile piece was created by Tony Hermane, Rob Washburn, Jamie Greer, and Karlie Smith from the CAA office. When deciding where to attend college, Chris Zellous was looking for a place where he could excel on the football field and pursue his dream of working as a sports broadcaster. He found that fit at Hampton University, where he has developed into one of the top quarterbacks in the CAA and has taken advantage of the prestigious Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications. Click the above image to watch the feature.

09 27 JA N UA RY 2 0 2 3

28 THE HAMPTONIAN