Hampton University's Office of Alumni Affairs and Parent Relations | May/June 2024 Newsletter

PRESIDENT’S CORNER

Hampton University Marks a Milestone with 665 Degrees Conferred at the 154th Commencement Ceremony | Sandra Evers-Manly Wows Hampton University Students with Inspirational Speech; Tops it Off with $100,000 Gift to Scripps Howard School of Journalism & Communications

Hampton University President Announces School of Religion Partnership with C.O.G.I.C. Second Jurisdiction of Virginia at the 110th Ministers’ Conference

2024 DLA Hall of Fame inductee: Lt. Gen. Darrell Williams

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Amazon Awards 52 Hampton University School of Business Students with Scholarships

Hampton University

Announced President’s Cup Winner and Recognized 52 Students at 49th Annual Honors Day | From Pandemic to Purpose: Hampton University Grad Shane Taylor’s Ascent to Immunology Inspired by COVID-19 | Hampton University Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications Awards $121,000 in Scholarships to 20 Students During Student Town Hall Meeting

COL Marlon Ringo ‘02 | Ken Jones ‘74 | Anne E. Robinson ’91 | Evan Kee ‘12

Hampton Athletics Coaches Caravan Continues Summer Tour

Hampton University Marks a Milestone with 665 Degrees Conferred at the 154th Commencement Ceremony

Hampton University proudly conferred degrees to over 665 graduates at its 154th Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 12th, a historic event that included the university’s youngest graduate to date, and the largest group of doctoral degrees. This year’s ceremony not only celebrated academic achievements but also the resilience and adaptability of the Class of 2024, who navigated the transition from virtual to in-person learning environments.

In his address to the graduates, Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams highlighted the successes of this graduating class whose members have won regional and national awards, spoke and sang at the White House, presented research papers at national conferences and earned full-ride scholarships to pursue advanced degrees, received jobs at Fortune 500 companies. President Williams emphasized the importance of becoming servant leaders who will build and restore communities across the nation and the world.

A Symbol of Hampton Brilliance

“We celebrate not just your academic achievements, but also your profound impact on our community and the world at large,” said President Williams. “You are a symbol of our institutional success, our Hamptonian brilliance, and a manifestation of our ‘Standard of Excellence.’

The Commencement Keynote Speaker, Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, social justice advocate and pastor of the 10,000-member megachurch Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, delivered an impassioned speech that inspired the graduates to take active roles in shaping the future.

“Today marks the beginning of your obligation to shape the post-COVID world that is evolving and devolving at the same time,” Wesley stated. In his awe-inspiring speech, Wesley, an Urban One Network radio host recently named as one of the top 100 most influential

African Americans in the nation by The Root, quoted a recent Kendrick Lamar tune and cited lines from John Singleton’s 1991 blockbuster, “Boyz n the Hood.” He told the graduates, before a packed Convocation Center, to care about what is going on in the world around them and to use their degrees for more than their own prosperity.

“Your degree is not only a blessing for you but it should also be a blessing to someone else,” said Wesley. “When you decide to walk in your intelligence, when you decide to let every boardroom know that you are a proud Hampton grad, when you rise above mediocrity and declare that ok [isn’t] ok, when you walk in excellence and determine that ‘good enough’ [isn’t] good enough you will change this world by showing them the God-given intelligence that is within you to shape and change this world.”

Wesley further motivated the graduates by reminding them of their unique journeys and responsibilities, and that their loved ones have prayed, sacrificed and gave up so much for the graduates to reach this momentous occasion.

Ancestors’ Dreams

“You are the dreams of your ancestors,” said Wesley. “Show them who you are. Class of 2024, go change the world.”

During the ceremony, President Williams awarded the 2024 Alumnus-at-Large Award to Former Dean of Student Life, Jewel Long, who served Hampton University for 54 years in various capacities. Additionally, Attorney Jaaye Person-Lynn, class of 2004, was honored with the Twenty-Year Alumnus Award, highlighting the ongoing legacy of Hampton’s alumni in making significant contributions to society.

Hampton University Sophomore Kevin Casey, the first male student poet in the university’s history, recited a moving poem entitled, “Boys by the Sea,” one student’s reflection on the journey from boyhood to manhood.

This year’s graduates have demonstrated exceptional resilience, having adapted to online classes and virtual platforms before transitioning back to face-to-face education. For many, this commencement ceremony was their first public graduation, marking a significant and joyous occasion in their academic journey.

Hampton University continues to uphold its Standard of Excellence, fostering an environment where students not only pursue academic excellence but also contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.

Hampton University Celebrates Reunion Weekend for Classes

Dear Hampton University Alumni,

I just wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who attended the Reunion Weekend 2024. I hope you enjoyed reconnecting with old friends, reminiscing about your time at Hampton, and creating new memories together. Your presence made the event truly special, and I am thankful for the opportunity to share in the camaraderie that defines our “Home by the Sea.”

Your continued support and participation are invaluable, and I am already looking forward to the next reunion. Let’s keep the Hampton spirit alive and thriving until we meet again.

Thank you once again for making the Reunion 2024 a resounding success. Check out our photos and wrap-up video to relive the magic. Go Pirates!

Warm regards,

Matthew A. White AVP for Alumni and Parental Relations

Sandra Evers-Manly Wows Hampton University Students with Inspirational Speech; Tops it Off with $100,000 Gift to Scripps Howard School of Journalism & Communications

In the spirit of her civil rights family and renowned cousin, Medgar Evers, Sandra Evers-Manly on April 24, wowed Hampton University students with an inspired speech promoting the benefits of hard work, self-worth, and other successful living tips. She then topped it off by pledging a $100,000 donation to the HU Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications.

“We were so honored to have Ms. Evers-Manly visit our campus as a guest of my JAC 454 Civil Rights Era and the media class,” said SHSJC Dean Julia Wilson. “Not only is she a highly successful Black woman who climbed the challenging corporate ladder of a major U.S. aeronautics defense contractor, she is a remarkable motivational speaker with a caring and generous spirit. Her intelligence and commitment to education, self-empowerment, and social justice truly honors the powerful legacy of her famous cousin, the late Medgar Evers, one of America’s great civil rights pioneers.”

“Ms. Evers-Manly’s speech and life-story anecdotes moved our school to cheers, applause and joyful tears,” Wilson continued.

Following her speech, Evers-Manly fielded journalism students’ questions about her career and life’s journey. She also advised her young audience to: “Always give back; what you put in, is what you get out. Giving is how you can change the world and continue your legacy.”

“And then, true to her words, she really floored us,” Wilson said. “She handed me a check for $10,000, as a down payment on her $100,000 pledge. We deeply appreciate her generous gift and will put it to excellent use in our school to benefit our students.”

After the event, Evers-Manly and Dean Wilson visited HU President Darrell K. Williams and Board of Trustee Member E.D. “Buddy” David, who thanked Evers-Manly for her surprise contribution to the SHSJC school.

Evers-Manly’s famous ancestor and cousin Medgar Evers, was a major force in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. A close friend and colleague of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Evers emerged as the NAACP’s first field secretary. Unlike Dr. King who pushed for racial equality and opportunity across the U.S., Evers focused on his civil rights work in his home state of Mississippi. He led boycotts of whiteowned businesses there, that refused to serve Black customers. He also fought tirelessly to end segregation and led voter registration drives of Mississippi’s Black population. Tragically, shortly after midnight on June12, 1963, Evers, only 37 years of age, was fatally wounded in the driveway of his home by an assassin, identified many years later as a member of an all-white racist group.

Hampton University President Announces School of Religion Partnership with C.O.G.I.C. Second Jurisdiction of Virginia at the 110th Ministers’ Conference

Hampton University proudly announced that its newly launched School of Religion has formed a partnership with the Church of God in Christ Second Jurisdiction of Virginia during the 110th Hampton University Ministers’ Conference (HUMC), marking a new chapter for both the university and the church community. This innovative collaboration will be a vital resource for both the Ministers’ Conference and the broader faith-based community.

“We are thrilled to announce that the Church of God in Christ is our very first partner with the School of Religion,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “Together, we are shaping the future of religious education and leadership, stepping forward to support our mission of preparing inspired and effective leaders for the 21st century.”

The Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C.) is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the world. Founded in 1907, C.O.G.I.C. is known for its commitment to spiritual growth, community service, and social justice.

“The collaboration between C.O.G.I.C. and Hampton University’s School of Religion is a remarkable opportunity to enhance spiritual education and leadership,” said Bishop Michael B. Golden, Jr., appointed as on the youngest bishops of C.O.G.I.C. “We are honored to be the inaugural partner in this endeavor, and we look forward to the positive impact this will have on our communities and beyond.”

Rev. Dr. Debra Haggins, founding dean of the School of Religion, executive director and treasurer of the Hampton University Ministers’ Conference, and HU chaplain, shared her excitement about the partnership.

“The School of Religion is a dream realized for Hampton University and the faith community,” said Haggins. “This institution will provide a comprehensive and inclusive platform for theological education, research, and spiritual development. We are excited about our partnership with C.O.G.I.C. and we’re committed to fostering a new generation of leaders who are well-equipped to address the challenges of our time.”

For more information on the Hampton University School of Religion, visit hamptonu.edu

2024 DLA Hall of Fame Inductee: Lt. Gen. Darrell Williams

By Beth Reece

From the Defense Logistic Agency

Editor’s Note: This is one of five stories featuring 2024 DLA Hall of Fame inductees. An induction ceremony will be held 2 p.m. May 21 at the McNamara Headquarters Complex auditorium on Fort Belvoir, Virginia. The ceremony is open to all DLA employees; invitations are not needed

The Defense Logistics Agency director who led increased material availability rates for every service branch and labeled employees the “secret sauce” of the agency’s success is a member of the 2024 DLA Hall of Fame.

Army Lt. Gen. Darrell Williams served twice as a DLA leader – first as commanding general of DLA Land and Maritime from September 2010 to July 2012, then as DLA director from June 2017 to July 2020.

Some of the keystones of Williams’ three years as the agency’s 19th director included disaster relief, improved warfighter support, industry partnerships, and commitment to whole-of-government customers.

Williams oversaw development of DLA’s Agency Synchronization Operations Center from the similarly missioned Joint Logistics Operations Center as well as the Service Readiness Dashboard. The ASOC provides a common operating picture of DLA’s mission support and business processes, and the dashboard measures DLA’s operational impact on weapons systems and readiness in real-time.

“Lt. Gen. Williams significantly improved support to the combatant commands and the four military services by supporting the accelerated divestiture of Navy excess equipment and establishing enhanced forward distribution capabilities for forward stocking in support of the Korean peninsula and the European theater,” according to his nomination.

To increase military readiness, he introduced demand planning summits, where customers shared future needs, and industry days, which gave suppliers and small businesses a snapshot of military requirements.

Williams also oversaw the creation of DLA’s partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs, enabling DLA to save the VA nearly $1.2 billion as it became the single provider for VA’s medical supplies.

Emergency disaster response under Williams’ leadership included 2.7 million gallons of fuel and over 88 million meals after hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria hit the U.S. and Puerto Rico. His other whole-of-government initiatives included support for the U.S. Forest Service’s wildland firefighting efforts as well as the federal government’s initial response to COVID-19.

People and culture mattered to Williams, too.

“He encouraged DLA teammates to engage with each other through the DLA Ball and the Holiday Open House. He instituted the employee Shadow Program for leadership

development, ‘Ya Done Good!’ awards for employee recognition and more,” his nomination reads.

As a brigadier general at DLA Land and Maritime, Williams led warfighter support for operations Enduring Freedom and Iraq Freedom. He spearheaded enhanced support for the mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle, enabling the Defense Department to maintain a 94% readiness rate for the vehicle through 2011.

Material availability rates for the Navy’s Nuclear Reactor Program also exceeded standards during Williams’ leadership at the Columbus, Ohio, based major subordinate command. Logistics support likewise expanded for Humvee repairs, the Tires Successor Initiative and Integrated Product Support Prime Vendor arrangements, leading to on-time deliveries over 95% of the time.

Williams’ nomination characterized him as an inspiration for the next generation. He mentored young officers through speeches at ROTC events, the Command and General Staff School and Army War College.

Click to watch the DLA Hall of Fame

Amazon Awards 52 Hampton University School of Business Students with Scholarships

In a significant initiative to foster educational opportunities and prepare students for the digital age, Amazon has awarded 52 scholarships totaling $100,000 to students of the Hampton University School of Business. This collaboration signifies Amazon’s commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting digital literacy among the next generation of business leaders.

The partnership between Amazon and the Hampton University Department of Marketing aims to equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. As part of this endeavor, students continue to participate in Amazon’s digital certification course, providing them with invaluable insights and practical knowledge.

“We are grateful to Amazon and look forward to the opportunities this collaboration brings to our students,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “These scholarships will encourage our students to excel in the digital economy and make meaningful contributions to the business world.”

Ziette Hayes, Ph.D., dean of the Hampton University School of Business, emphasized the significance of this collaboration.

“The support from Amazon underscores our commitment to providing our students with access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities,” said Hayes. “These scholarships will undoubtedly open doors for our students and pave the way for their success in the digital realm.”

Leading the initiative from the Department of Marketing, Vahwere Kavota, Ph.D., department chair, expressed his gratitude towards Amazon for recognizing the potential of Hampton University students.

“We are honored to partner with Amazon in preparing our students for the future of business,” said Kavota. “This collaboration exemplifies our shared vision of fostering innovation and excellence in education.”

The scholarships awarded by Amazon represent a milestone in the ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between academia and industry, empowering students to thrive in a competitive global marketplace.

Upcoming Events

President’s Cup Winner and Recognized 52 Students at 49th Annual Honors Day

Hampton University proudly announced Lailah Daniel as the winner of the 2024 President’s Cup and recognized 52 additional students at the 49th Honors Day Ceremony.

Daniel is a senior scholarathlete who has shown unparalleled dedication both in her academics and on the soccer field. As captain of the university soccer team and a major in Health Sciences & Policy Administration, Daniel has exemplified what it means to be a leader and a committed scholar. Her achievements extend beyond the campus as she is set to continue her studies at Johns Hopkins University.

“Lailah Daniel has shown exceptional leadership, commitment, and academic prowess during her time here at Hampton,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “She represents the best of our university and is a deserving recipient of this year’s President’s Cup.”

The honors day ceremony also celebrated the academic achievements of a total of 52 distinguished honors students, with departmental awards from each of the eight schools on campus.

Hampton University was graced by the presence and wisdom of its internationally renowned alumnus, Clayton Bond, J.D ‘98. As the senior advisor for Diplomatic Fellowships at the Ralph J. Bunche International Affairs Center, Howard University, Bond shared an empowering message with the honors college students: the sky is not the limit.

Reflecting on his own journey from being an honors student at Hampton University to achieving remarkable academic heights, Bond’s story is one of relentless ambition

and dedication. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Oxford, where he was a proud Fulbright scholar, and has furthered his education at Harvard University’s School of Government. Bond’s legal expertise is fortified by his Juris Doctorate from the Northwestern California University School of Law.

Beyond his academic and professional pursuits, Bond is deeply committed to philanthropy and service. He shared personal insights from his experiences, emphasizing the importance of risk-taking, serving others, and living life to its fullest potential.

“Dream no small dreams,” Bond stated, underscoring the exceptional caliber of Hampton honors students and their promising futures.

Hampton University continues to foster an environment where students thrive through rigorous academic challenges and robust extracurricular engagement. The Honors Day Celebration not only recognizes the accomplishments of its students but also reaffirms the university’s commitment to excellence.

From Pandemic to Purpose: Hampton University Grad Shane Taylor’s Ascent to Immunology Inspired by COVID-19

At Hampton University, Shane Taylor stands for having the third highest GPA within the School of Science, (the top student in the Department of Biology) and also for his profound dedication to immunological research, a passion ignited during the unsettling days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Taylor’s journey through the pandemic has shaped his academic and career aspirations, leading him towards a future in vaccine development.

Originally from Prince George’s County, MD, Taylor was deeply impacted by the global health crisis during

what he refers to as his “COVID class” experience. His freshman year transitioned entirely online due to the pandemic, and further sparked his interest in the intricacies of immunology and the pivotal role of vaccines in public health.

Taylor’s interest in science isn’t new. His first publication as a co-author came during his freshman year at Hampton, stemming from high school research. The paper, led by his mentor Dr. Mark Berk, focused on the neurological effects of HIV in pediatric patients. “The reduced neuronal population of the dorsolateral pre-frontal cortex in HIV infected individuals” explores how HIV degrades neurons in children infected by their mothers, affecting their developing behaviors.

“The COVID-19 pandemic heavily influenced my decision to study immunology,” Taylor shared. “It inspired me that researchers had been preparing for potential outbreaks for decades. What most saw as a swift development of COVID vaccines was the culmination of years of prepared work.

“I chose Hampton University because of the strong biology program and Hampton’s U Rise program,” said Taylor. “Through U Rise, I have attended and presented at conferences across the country, gaining the tools necessary for my doctoral studies.” Hampton University’s U Rise program provides extensive research opportunities and supports students aiming for Ph.D.’s or M.D.-Ph.D.’s.

“Shane has been a standout student in our School of Science, consistently demonstrating a deep commitment to advancing his knowledge towards

challenging issues in STEM,” said Isi EroJohnson, Ph., dean, Hampton University School of Science. “His proactive approach to research and his passion for immunology are commendable. As he moves forward to Dartmouth, we wish him innovative solutions to the challenges in vaccine development and disease prevention.”

In the fall, Taylor will attend Dartmouth College to focus on immunology, specifically targeting infectious diseases and the immune responses they trigger. “At Dartmouth, researchers have laid a critical foundation for mRNA vaccines, including the COVID vaccine,” said Taylor, underscoring the importance of continuing this innovative work.

Beyond academics, Taylor has been an active member of the Hampton community. His involvement in the Hampton University Marching Force brought him life-long friendships and afforded him opportunities and unique experiences like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York and

traveling to Rome for performances.

Reflecting on his time at Hampton, Taylor said he appreciates the tight-knit community at Hampton and the preparation it provided him to thrive in any environment.

“Hampton taught me that I am my biggest advocate and that It’s crucial to be resilient, determined, and to hold oneself to a higher standard,” said Taylor. “Because of my time here at Hampton, learning from and working with top-notch faculty/scientists, I know that I am prepared to thrive in any environment during my career.

As Shane Taylor looks to the future, his goals are clear: to advance the field of immunology and develop vaccines that combat diseases like HIV, influenza, and COVID-19. His journey reflects the embodies Hampton University’s standard of excellence and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of our global community.

Hampton University Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications Awards $121,000 in Scholarships to 20 Students During Student Town Hall Meeting

Hampton University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications presented $121,000 in scholarship awards to 20 deserving students on April 24, during a Student Town Hall meeting in the Robert P. Scripps auditorium. The scholarships are funded by donations from three of the school’s prominent partners: the White House Correspondents’ Association, Spotify and the Scripps Howard Fund.

The commitment and financial support of these media groups reflect their dedication to the next generation of diverse journalists and public relations professionals,” said SHSJC Dean Julia A. Wilson. “These scholarships enable our students to focus on their academic work and fine-tune their creative skills, as they prepare for jobs and careers in the highly competitive global marketplace.”

Tyra Ware, a fourth-year journalism major and coexecutive producer of the school’s WHOV-TV, received the White House Correspondents’ Association scholarship and a ticket enabling her to attend that group’s prestigious annual dinner on April 27 in Washington, D.C. where President Joe Biden participated in the program.

Spotify scholarships went to first-year students

Nyla Adams and HoneyRose Smith, both journalism majors; second-year students Caitlyn Fitzpatrick and Trinity Polk, journalism majors and Sophia Guerra, strategic communication major; third-year students

Bella May, journalism major, and Ayan Harris, strategic communication major; and fourth-year students

Samiyah Hall, Isaac Harris and Riana Ward, all strategic communication majors.

Scripps Howard Endowed Fund scholarship recipients include: first-year students HoneyRose Smith and Jasmine Thomas, journalism majors, and Alessandra Garron, strategic communication major; secondyear students Cheyenne Brown, Jordyn Isaacs and Brooklyn Lewis, journalism majors, and Reagan Carter and Sophia Guerra, strategic communication majors; third-year student Morgan Harris, journalism major; and fourth-year students Sydney McCall, journalism major, Samiyah Hall and Kassidy McGill, strategic communication majors.

Approximately 100 students attended the final meeting of the school’s student body and faculty for the 2023 – 2024 academic year. As part of the program, the students with the highest GPAs were recognized and inducted into the Kappa Tau Alpha honor society for journalism and communications.

Alumni Highlights 07

Congrats to Alumnus COL

Marlon Ringo ‘02 on his Promotion

Congratulations to Colonel Marlon Ringo ‘02 on his promotion. Colonel Ringo’s promotion ceremony was held at Hampton University’s Marine Point COL Ringo upon completing the Naval War College in June will be stationed at FT Eustis.

Congrats to Alumnus Ken Jones ‘74 on his Career Milestone

Congratulations to Ken Jones’74 on completing 21+ years with the Central Intellegence Agency after he had served 30 years in the Army.

Congrats to Alumna Anne E. Robinson ’91 on her New Position

Congratulations to Alumna Anne E. Robinson ‘91! Robinson is joining IBM as Senior Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, effective July 1, 2024.

Previously, she was general counsel of Vanguard, and secretary of the Vanguard funds. She was the managing director of the Office of the General Counsel, where she led Global Public Policy, Legal, Compliance, and Investment Stewardship.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Hampton University and a J.D. from Columbia Law School.

Read more HERE!

Congrats to Alumnus Evan Kee ‘12 on his New Role

Congratulations to Alumnus Evan Kee ‘12! Randolph College Director of Athletics Tom Galbraith announced Thursday the hiring of Kee as the school’s head men’s basketball coach. Kee becomes just the third coach to lead the WildCats program since its inception in the 2007-08 season.

Kee comes to Randolph after leading the Apprentice School (Va.) to a 25-5 record in 202324 and a United Small College Athletic Association (USCAA) national championship. He spent five seasons as the head coach in Newport News and compiled an 81-59 record during that span. He was named the 2023 USCAA National Coach of the Year after leading the Builders to a 21-8 record and a New South Athletic Conference (NSAC) title.

Read more HERE!

Hampton Athletics Coaches Caravan Continues Summer Tour

The inaugural Hampton Athletics Coaches Caravan began Tuesday, May 21st, at STK-NYC Rooftop in New York City. It’s next stops will be in Virginia and North Carolina. All Pirate fans, supporters, and alumni are encouraged to attend.

Hampton Athletics Coaches Caravan will make eight stops that span across the East Coast. Other stops include Philadelphia (May 22), Washington D.C. (May 23), Richmond (June 18), Hampton (June 19), Virginia Beach (June 20), Charlotte (June 26), and Greensboro/Raleigh (June 27).

Each stop will feature Anthony D. Henderson Sr., Director of Athletics, and head coaches from our 17 athletic programs. There will not only be heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar but also an opportunity to hear and speak with the head coaches on the current state of their programs.

Read more and sign up HERE!