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PRESIDENT’S CORNER
HBCU PRESIDENTS FLY-IN AT THE WHITE HOUSE
HBCUs received significant press coverage surrounding national meetings held last year at the White House. Attendees included more than 80 HBCU presidents, federal partners, President Trump, members of Congress, and chancellors of HBCUs. President Kent J. Smith, Jr. and other HBCU administrators gathered at our nation’s capitol to raise awareness of and to advocate for greater support of HBCU institutions. The meetings resulted in the signing of a new executive order, which sparked the ongoing conversation for continued dialogue, engagement and accountability. Langston University appreciates the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, its President and key staff for organizing the HBCU roundtable with the new administration. During this time, they also met with Congressman Mark Walker, Senator Tim Scott, Congressman Trey Gowdy, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, and House Speaker Paul Ryan.
In addition to his time spent at The White House, President Smith had several opportunities to bring awareness to Langston University programs as a guest on Roland Martin’s “News One Now” and “American Urban Radio Network with April Ryan”. Locally, President Smith met with Oklahoma Senator James Lankford earlier this year in a one-on-one session to advocate for the University.
LU ADMINISTRATION EXPAND RECRUITMENT EFFORTS AND TRAVEL TO UNIVERSITIES IN CHINA
Dr. Kent J. Smith, Jr., Dr. Clyde Montgomery, and Dr. Steve Zeng traveled to China for the third consecutive year to sign new MOU agreements with two new Universities. This goal was to expand the University’s international outreach in China as part of a campus wide international recruitment effort. Langston University administration visited Henan University, Zhejiang University and ShenZhou College of Animal and Economy. International teaching collaboration continues to grow. Students from China, Ghana and other countries have been matriculating in the School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences each year since 2014.
IN THIS ISSUE
As Langston University embarks on a truly remarkable period in its rich history, we are pleased to present this issue of Our Pride Magazine. In this issue, you will read about many of the exciting initiatives and amazing accomplishments occurring on our campuses and beyond!
Langston University is building relationships all over the world! Our researchers have traveled to Kenya, Namibia, Vietnam, and China, just to name a few countries in which we have made a great impact. Our students are engaging in opportunities from Washington, D.C. to Stanford, CA, and everywhere in between. Our distinguished faculty continue to connect with colleagues through their grantsmanship and scholarship efforts on an international scale. We look forward to growing these types of partnerships in the future.
Alumni support is integral to the growth and vitality of our institution. I would like for you to consider engaging with Langston University in a way that is meaningful to you.
Connect: Reach out to our Institutional Advancement staff and discuss the ways in which you may be of assistance to our students, connect with faculty and serve as a guest speaker, or bring your company to campus to participate in one of our many career fairs.
Commit: Students need your support in areas of mentorship, internships, and job opportunities. Commit to the university that helped you achieve your goals by helping a young person reach their full potential.
Contribute: Invest in our students, support campus expansion, or share your positive experiences at Langston University to enhance the image of the institution. There are many ways to contribute to our mission such as attending events, endowing a scholarship, or making a personal gift.
Our students need you and I invite your involvement today. There is no better investment; your gift could change the trajectory of a student’s life forever. I invite you to give of your time, talent, and treasure in supporting our students
Demonstrate your loyalty to the University that prepared you for success and join me in making this a record-breaking year. You can make your gift online at www.langston.edu/gift-giving.
We sincerely appreciate your continued support of Langston University!
Go Lions!
Sincerely,
Kent J. Smith, Jr., Ph.D. President LUNAA Life Member #864
Greetings fellow Alum:
I pray that this letter finds each and every one of you in good health as you prepare to “Let The Good Times Roar” in your return to Langston for Homecoming 2018. As my time draws to a close as your National President, I would like to take this time to update you on the happenings of the Board since Homecoming 2017.
LUNAA Operations
As you may recall, during Homecoming 2017, our Executive Director had just been hired. Since September 2017, Director Daniels and I have reviewed prior operations of the Association and recommended ways to streamline processes and reduce expenses. The Board accepted a majority of the recommendations and adjusted others. We have eliminated over $3,000 in annual expenses in consolidated or redundant operations.
The Board was able to move some of these funds to pay for the new membership portal, Memberplanet. This portal launched in mid-January and is the hub for all member information and communication. In the past, we had other vendors that would handle what our single, membership portal does and now we much more functionality at our fingertips. As we move more operations into the software, we ask that each of you keep your membership current and continue to check in your portal. By using the portal we are able to eliminate the printing and mailing of paperwork which is one of the highest costs for the organization. The long-term plan is to completely eliminate the need to mail anything related to membership or communication with our members.
Communication
In January 2017, the Board was asked to step up and meet on a monthly basis. It was imperative, as we took the reins of the organization, that each officer did their part and then some. It is great to be able to say that the Board meetings have been held monthly for my entire term as President. This has allowed us to be more flexible and responsive to member and chapter needs. As of January 2017, the Senate meetings have also been on a regular schedule. In being transparent, there are some concerns that members of the Senate are not bringing the information back to their respective chapters. As a Board, we do not engage in dictating how to get this information but we do recommend placing the Senator’s reports on your chapter meeting agenda so that everyone is made aware of Association happenings. Lastly, I have held two Quarterly President’s Calls where the Board is able to answer questions directly from the Chapter Presidents. There will be another in December that will assist with officer transitions and end the fiscal year on a high note.
Fundraising
The Association kicked off its first ongoing fundraising campaign. It can be found on Memberplanet and the LUNAA website. It is called 2-for-$20 campaign. There have been questions on how to give back to both LUNAA and LU. At times it seems to be difficult in choosing to donate. We have found a solution to this. The 2-for-$20 campaign, will split donations equally between LUNAA and LU. This way, you are able to support both organizations.
To kick-off the homecoming week on Saturday, Oct.13, LUNAA will be hosting its first 5K Fun Walk/Run. This event is an effort to stress a healthier lifestyle and allow for increased social interaction. We would like to thank Dean Busby for working with LUNAA on an optimal time where students and alumni can gather and socialize during the 5K.
Homecoming week will also see LUNAA holding its first fundraising event in five years. We will be getting together for a Skate Jam at Skate Galaxy. It is difficult to schedule events during the homecoming weekend as LUNAA attempts to work around the required Board and Senate meetings, the President’s Gala, the Saturday events and the weekend nightly events. We believe that we have stuck a happy medium by hosting a Skate Jam. Come one, come all. The cost is $10 at the door
LUNAA 2.0
With all the aforementioned events and happenings, what exactly does LUNAA 2.0 mean? Well, the Board wanted to reinvent the Association. In doing so, we need to revive the external image of the Association. To do this we decided to create a new logo for the Association that our members would be proud to wear. The challenge was accepted and on Saturday, Oct. 20, LUNAA will unveil its new logo. We feel that it embodies a strong sense of pride in not only LUNAA but also with Langston University. We have received several compliments from vendors that have seen both the legacy logo and new logo. The reactions are that LUNAA has definitely gone down the right path in reinventing how everyone sees us.
In order for us to make our brand stick we need to market it correctly. So going forward, LUNAA will not use other logos on its merchandise. We will focus on building LUNAA’s brand and making sure that our members are proud to be a part of this great organization. We could not stop at just a new logo. As you will see at Homecoming, there will be a new LUNAA-owned tent that will be emblazoned with our new logo. We wish to thank Alumni Affairs for allowing us to use their tent for all these years, we appreciate the graciousness afforded to LUNAA. Come out and see why the Board is so thrilled about the future of LUNAA. Feel free to stop by the tent and pick-up your free gift while supplies last.
This year, as an added bonus, if you decide to pay your 2019 dues at homecoming, you will receive a 20% discount off the national dues. That’s right, membership on Oct. 20 will be reduced from $50 to $40. The discount will only be applied to memberships taken on Oct. 20. You can sign-up in person at the LUNAA tent or you can purchase your membership through the link to Memberplanet found on the LUNAA.org website.
Member Benefits
For many years, the various Boards have constantly heard the mantra, “What do I get for being a member of LUNAA?” For so long, the main tangible benefit was the 10 percent discount at the bookstore on the main campus. However, with LUNAA 2.0 comes a completely updated Member Benefits program. The program has hundreds of thousands of discounts that can be accessed where you live. So many of the offers provide cash back to you as well. I believe you will absolutely love everything that is at your fingertips.
All-School Reunion
As you may be aware, the 2019 All-School Reunion (ASR) will be in our nation’s capital, Washington, DC from June 20-23, 2019. The Board would like to take this time to thank the LUNAA-DC Chapter for volunteering to host the upcoming ASR. The Board took LUNAA 2.0 to the ASR planning as well. We have and continue to work diligently with the DC Chapter to make sure this is a very different ASR from those in the past. Not only do we have time to handle the business of LUNAA, we will also be hitting the streets of DC as well. We are going back to the basics of reunions and bringing the group together in various ways that can only happen in DC. So, go to www.lunaa.org and start making your reservations now because we are calling all alumni to descend upon DC in June of 2019.
Summary
I hope you can see that the Board has been busy since we last convened at the 2017 Senate Meeting. We believe LUNAA 2.0 will invigorate alumni from all years to rejoin the Association. By rejoining, we are able to continue the work of those that have come before us, in order to pave the way for those that come after us.
We look forward to seeing you on top of the hill as we “Let The Good Times Roar!”
Sincerely,
Dr. Melvin M. Randle,
Jr.
National President Langston University National Alumni Association 2017-2019
LUNAA Chapters:
Arizona Chapter
Atlanta Chapter
Chicago Chapter
DC Metro Chapter
Detroit Chapter
Greater Dallas Chapter
Greater Kansas City Chapter
Greater Memphis Area Chapter
Greater St. Louis Chapter
Guthrie Chapter
Lawton/Fort Sill Chapter
Los Angeles Chapter
McAlester Chapter
Muskogee Chapter
Nigeria Chapter
Northern California Chapter
Oklahoma City Chapter
Philadelphia/South Jersey Chapter
Tulsa Chapter
Wichita Chapter
WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON
The Women in Leadership Luncheon is an annual fundraising initiative to benefit the Young Women’s Empowerment Institute. The Young Women’s Empowerment Institute is a mentoring program for freshman female students attending Langston University. It is a oneyear program that provides transformative opportunities to young women between 17-21 years of age, who are first time, full-time entering freshmen.
on the frontline
lunaa chapter visits
Staff members from the office of institutional advancement and external affairs visited several of the Langston University National Alumni Association (LUNAA) Chapters this past year. They enjoyed their time spent with the Washington D.C. Metro, Tulsa, Atlanta, Northern California and Southern California and Kansas City Chapters.
12th Annual President’s Scholarship Gala
capacity crowd of 900 alumni and community leaders attended the Langston University 12th Annual President’s Scholarship Gala for an unforgettable evening at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
The evening began at 6:00 p.m. with a social gathering that featured a VIP reception and an area for group pictures with various backgrounds. Distinguished guests from across the nation came together for a spectacular black-tie affair to raise support for student scholarships. Mautra Jones, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and External Affairs, welcomed the crowd and delivered opening remarks. Two honorees were recognized for their outstanding commitment to Langston University, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, and the Jeltz Foundation. Major sponsors of the gala included ImageNet, ONEOK and Tinker Federal Credit Union, and Love’s Travel Stop.
This year’s gala headliner was undoubtedly the bell of the ball with an exceptional musical performance by, Regina Belle, a Grammy award-winning pop, soul, jazz, gospel and adult contemporary singer-songwriter. Guests navigated the beautiful venue for an intimate, acoustic performance by Grammy Awardwinning artist Regina Belle in the VIP lounge after the program.
It was the foundation’s new giving video presentation that captured their hearts and spurred the audience to pledge record support during the program. Student hosts shared their stories about how scholarship assistance has dramatically impacted their lives. One student featured in the video shared about her struggle to fit in at her high school, and how the University has helped her find her confidence and purpose. This testimony sparked a sense of comradery in finding one’s place to call home. Overall, it was an extraordinary night that honored those who support the University and our rich history of inspiring student success – then, now and always.
LU ATTENDS THE CAPACITY BUILDING LIFE STEM WORKSHOP
Langston University team attended the Capacity Building Life STEM workshop at Xavier University of Louisiana in June 2017. Faculty and staff that attended the workshop included Dr. Desmond Delk, Physical Education Professor; Ms. Cherie Ognibene, Biology Professor; Mrs. Ardenna Harris, Director of Sponsored Programs and Dr. John Coleman, Professor & the Chair of the Chemistry Department. LU faculty was able to develop a powerful network of industry partnerships, increase collaborative and interdisciplinary research, and build their internal as well as external capacity in STEM education.
LU STUDENT SWEEPS AT TOASTMASTERS AREA COMPETITION!
Langston University’s Roaring Legacy Toastmasters was officially chartered on Feb. 21, 2017. And they are certainly off to a great start! LU senior, Eugene Buckman competed as a representative of the chapter and placed first at the state competition held at Southern Nazarene University.
LANGSTON
AWARENESS EVENTS
The Langston University Oklahoma City Campus (LU-OKC) has been actively working to build awareness of education and the importance of teachers. Through a series of events, they have advocated for teachers from Pre-K to those working in Higher Education.
LU-OKC led a series of panel discussion in September to bring awareness of the following topics at Star Spencer High School, John Marshall High School, and Douglass High School. The “Our Schools Need Us” event featured advocates for our state’s educational system. The events featured a series of guest panelists including, Dr. Melissa Brevetti, Dr. Andre Washington, and Dr. Rashell J. Campbell-Daughty who spoke on various topics relating to the education. Topics included school pride, academic success, healthy socialization, and productive conflict resolution.
LU-OKC hosted the inaugural “Community and Conversation” event in September 2017. The
program featured guest speakers, Associate Vice President Alice Strong-Simmons and Dr. Rashell J. Campbell-Daughty. They spoke on the importance of partnerships, the significance of community support, and shared educational opportunities.
UNIVERSITY OKLAHOMA CITY CAMPUS HOSTS EDUCATION
he mark of a true athlete is the determination and fortitude to keep going amidst physical and mental limitations. In track and field, stamina drains, muscles tire, and lungs start to burn, yet the goal line is still so far away. For identical twin sisters and student athletes, Kiajuana and Tiajuana Brimer, they’re ahead of the pack and on their way to the finish.
Kiajuana Brimer was a McCabe scholar, member of Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, Delta Mu Delta Honors Society, and scholars club before graduating in 2017 as an accounting major.
Tiajuana Brimer was also McCabe scholar, Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, and Delta Mu Delta Honors Society, before graduating Suma Cum Laude with a degree in computer science in 2017.
Instead of worrying about being in each other’s shadow, the Brimer twins worked together to build each other up toward success. Both Brimer twins were offered opportunities to work full time at the ONEOK Corporation after completing their internships with the company. Tiajuana was brought on as a systems analyst and Kiajuana began working as a Staff Accountant and is working to obtain a masters degree in Accountancy.
The Brimer twins are extremely hard working individuals, and there is no doubt that they can accomplish any goal they set for themselves. They continue to strive for excellence every day and through their leadership continue to prove that hard work and discipline reap great rewards.
he 2017 fall semester officially kicked off with a week long series of campus events. The University welcomed a new freshman class for the 2017 fall semester, and the campus bustled with excitement! New students participated in a series of events including freshman orientation known as Lion Camp. The orientation is designed for incoming students to get acclimated to campus, meet fellow Lions, and begin their academic and co-curricular experience.
Freshman move-in was successful! Student leaders across campus helped lead the efforts of the more than 20 events that assisted new students with getting involved on campus upon their arrival. Members of the Student Government Association, Greek life, and the LU student ambassadors volunteered at the LU movie night, talent show, the amazing race, campus resources panel, and the mixer.
“We anticipate the final enrollment of our freshman class will be between 650 and 700 students,” said Langston University President, Dr. Kent J. Smith, Jr. “I am proud of the outstanding leadership and efforts shown by the LU faculty, staff, alumni, and community volunteers who helped students with their transition into college life.”
LANGSTON UNIVERSITY WELCOMES CLASS OF 2021
Langston University student-athletes from the LU football team also assisted students with moving into their new homes across the Langston campus.
“Our goal was to ensure a stress-free move in for the incoming students and their families,” LU Athletic Director, Donnita Drain Rogers said.
“We know how special the first few days are for our new students, so we wanted to help make their first college experience a great one!”
This year marks the fourth consecutive year that Langston University has experienced record freshman class enrollment.
These Langston men and women have set the bar high for this year! The members of the Langston University Student Government Association head up the Business Tuesday initiative, which encourages all LU students to dress for the job they want by wearing business attire every Tuesday. It allows students to slowly build their professional wardrobe to ensure that they are ready for the corporate world.
ALUMNI RETURN BACK TO THE HILL TO SPEAK AT ANNUAL EVENTS
LU
ALUMNUS INSPIRES STUDENTS AT THE 120TH FOUNDERS DAY CELEBRATION
The 120th Founders Day celebration was very successful! Langston University alumnus, Mr. Pierre Lilly was so moved by his welcome to LU, he tossed out his script and shared sentiments from the heart. Lilly shared how the lessons he learned from his classmates, faculty and campus community shaped his career and position at Hormel Foods. Lilly also charged students to sharpen their leadership skills and take advantage of every opportunity. LU student leaders gave an impactful Founding Father’s spoken word presentation on the history of the Dear Langston, and the highly anticipated Butch documentary made its historical début during the program.
The award-winning documentary about the life of Mr. Hardin “Butch” Benjamin premiered as a private screening for the campus community. The day concluded with a special reception for alumni, guests, and members of the Langston community, which stirred a standing ovation as the campus united in celebration of the impact Butch has had on LU.
LU ALUMNUS EMPOWERS STUDENTS AT THE 2017 HONORS DAY PROGRAM
Langston University alumnus, Dr. Stewart Gilbert gave a remarkable speech at the 2017 Honors Day, a program that recognizes the University’s top academic achieving students.
Dr. Gilbert is a retired Senior Physician and Founding Partner at the Regent Medical Group in Inglewood, California. He shared about his successful career serving at Watts Health Foundation Clinic and private practice. Gilbert built a medical career with more than 40 years of diverse experiences specializing in internal medicine.
He shared about his rewarding student experience. “Here you will most likely find that here at Langston; it will be one of the most transformative periods of your life.”
He shared the importance of building lasting relationships in college and stated that, “Those you meet here will likely remain your friends and colleagues for the rest of your life.”
The advice he gave to the students was to, “Question everything to discover the truth and the truth behind it,” he said.
He charged students to seize every occasion and asked, “What will you do with your opportunities?”
The students were recognized at the end of the program and awarded gold academic medals as they walked across the stage.
LU ALUMNA GIVES INSIGHT INTO DIVERSITY
This Formal Opening Convocation Ceremony in 2017 had record attendance, as the LU community gathered to celebrate a new academic year. The keynote speaker, Ms. Kendra Burris-Austin, gave a fresh and authentic message about her road to success.
“Almost 30 years ago, I was sitting where you now sit,” she reflected back on her time at Langston University.
She echoed the words of a professor whose advice guided her throughout her career. She reverberated Dr. Hall’s charge she heard on countless occasions, “You will always have to be smarter, work harder, be better than others who don’t look like you.”
She candidly spoke about her experiences leading up to her current position. “I’m the only minority and a woman(at my job). Intrinsic in these meetings is a lack of diversity. Not just of color and gender, but thought. Before I open my mouth, I am invisible. They don’t see me.”
“But when I speak, people listen,” she said.
She currently serves as the Director of Supplier Diversity at Express Scripts, a $100 Billion Fortune 20 company. She described it as the dream job, “I travel, create my schedule, and run a program that promotes the inclusion of diverse companies.”
As Ms. Burris-Austin pointed out, Historically Black Colleges and Universities continue to graduate a higher number of minorities than other institutions combined. “They were founded because we were unable to earn a degree at other institutions. Your teachers understand that. That difference is your gift,” she said.
She urged students to find a mentor, “when you are empowered to move the mountain, it is the difference between possible success and definite failure.”
“Don’t underestimate the value this institution can bring to your future. My trip started here at Langston,” she said.
“The lessons I learned, shaped who I am today.”
Following her speech, Dr. Kent J. Smith, Jr., awarded her with the Distinguished Service Award.
After which, he addressed the significance of looking understanding the University’s history. He shared that next year, every incoming freshman will be required to read “Langston University: A History” by Zella J. Black Patterson. He charged the LU community to work together to record the continued history of Langston University.
The ceremony also featured the induction of the 2017 Student Government Association officers, music by the Langston University Concert Choir and Band, and remarks made by Mr. and Miss Langston University.
The commencement celebration was a weeklong series of events held on all three campuses. Three outstanding alumni were honored at the commencement ceremony held in May 2017. Congratulations to Tracy L. Jones, Michele A. Purvey, and Terrainia Harris on all of their achievements! Highlights from the special occasion include: a touching speech given by Mr. Kavaris Sims, and an honorary degree awarded to Dr. Melvin Todd.
The unforgettable tribute to the graduates brought the audience to their feet when the hit song “Swag Surfin’ ” was played just before degrees were granted. The University received coverage from the Huffington Post and Essence Magazine from the day’s events.
hen building a family legacy, it all starts with sharing your story with those you love. A family’s legacy is built over time. These treasured stories are passed down and told by their loved ones at dinner tables, in the living room at holidays, or during fellowship services. It is the support of those who come before that ensures strength, opportunity, and guidance for the future generations. And over time they begin to form a new story for the next chapter.
For the Schoats family, the continuing theme that has become the binding for their family legacy for three generations has been Langston University.
Dr. Albert Schoats began this legacy after graduating from Langston University in 1951. He was given the opportunity to follow his dreams during a turbulent time in U.S. history. During this time, he realized the true value of education. He was known to have always said, “When you get that degree you can do anything.”
For the Schoats family, there was only one place to go to get their education, Dear Langston. Throughout the 1970s through the 1990s, the second generation of Schoats, would attend and matriculate from Langston University. Those who earned their degree included Jacqueline Schoats Morson, Janice Schoats Jones Ware, Jennifer Schoats Flack, and Jerrilyn Schoats Stoutermire, Ed.D.
There were troubling economic times during their education, but Virginia was always there to inspire even through the most difficult of times. “Get your education, and it will take you far in life. Major in what you want, but get your education credits so that you can always teach,” Virgina encouraged.
He met the love of his life at Langston University. Marrying Dr. Virginia Flanigan Schoats, a 1955 LU graduate, was only the beginning of their remarkable story. As they raised their family, the Schoats knew they wanted to instill the value of higher education within each of them. Their daughters recall Dr. Schoats frequently saying, “Get your degree and then you can be grown.” He knew that each one of his daughters would be independent and can take care of themselves once they earned a degree.
Thanks to the strong foundation laid by Dr. and Mrs. Schoats, their children were able to earn their degree and continue to share their story. As their family grew it expanded to eleven additional Langston University graduates. Eager to celebrate the current Lion, Troy Stoutemire, is expected to walk across the stage at commencement in May 2018. Troy’s brother, Adam Stoutermire, is expected to join Dear Langston as a future lion. All because of the wisdom and strength shared by Dr. Albert and Virginia Flanigan Schoats looking to the future and sharing the stories of success of those who came before. They encouraged their children and grandchildren always to remember that when you are granted a blessing, to in turn be the blessing. While always promoting a generous spirit, “When you get your degree, plan to help others. That is what God wants from us. When you prepare yourself and do right by others, God will do the rest.”
Following his remarkable speech at Founders Day, Mr. Pierre Lilly came back for “Hormel Day” on the Langston campus. His visit to the University inspired him to further foster a relationship between his company and the University. He visited the Langston campus in April 2017. The day’s activities included a Lunch & Learn hosted by the Office of Career Services, on-campus interviews, and meeting with the LU faculty and staff. The Lunch & Learn workshop covered professional etiquette and social media. He also shared about employment and internship opportunities for students at Hormel Foods. Following the oncampus interviews, 2017 graduate, CIERRA GRAHAM received an invitation to the Hormel corporate office for an in-person interview. We are proud to share that Cierra Graham was offered a full-time accounting position at Hormel Foods and is currently working at corporate offices.
We want to thank alumnus Pierre Lilly and his outstanding commitment to Langston University and our students!
ALICIA THOMPSON
Alumna Alicia Thompson, who started in Wichita public schools as a kindergartner, will be the next superintendent of the largest school district in the state of Kansas.
Alumna DesJean Jones has been named Executive Director of Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) of Oklahoma County.
EMISHA PICKENS DESJEAN JONES
Alumna Emisha Pickens recently earned a doctoral degree from OU. She also received a highly competitive federal research grant, the Head Start Graduate Student Research Grant, for early childhood education.
GRETA J. STEWART
Alumna Greta J. Stewart has been recognized as a Professional of the Year by Strathmore’s Who’s Who Worldwide Edition for her outstanding contributions and achievements for over 21 years in the field of healthcare consulting.
JAMES B. WALKER
Alumnus Bishop James B. Walker was elected the 56th presidingprelate of the Seventh Episcopal District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church at its thirty-seventh general conference.
JOHN FLACK
Alumnus Dr. John Flack is the chair of Southern Illinois University’s Department of Internal Medicine. Dr. Flack has several publications on how hypertension affects African-Americans.
Alumnus Jonathan Solomon serves as the Director of Upward Bound at Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis, Missouri.
MAGNUS SCOTT JONATHAN SOLOMON
Alumnus Magnus Scott accepted a position at Leprino Foods in California. The company is a global leader in producing premium quality cheese, whey, and dairy food ingredients.
OMOLOLA HASSAN
Alumna Omolola Oluwaseum Ajike Hassan accepted a full time position with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as a Financial Institution Specialist in Los Angeles, California.
Class of 2017
MONIQUE MITCHELL-DANIELS
Alumna Monique Mitchell-Daniels is the new executive director for the Langston University National Alumni Association (LUNAA).
TODD KERSTEN
Alumnus Todd Kersten, PT, OCS will staff the Five Points clinic that recently opened up in Davenport, Illinois. The location of the new clinic will allow more Quad City area residents to conveniently access physical therapy treatments.
SHIRLEY CAMPBELL
Alumna Shirley Campbell is celebrating 20 years of serving the City of Shawnee Housing Authority as the FSS Coordinator.
Alumnus Ryan Huff of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, was recently named the new director of athletics and activities for the Bartlesville Public School district.
RUELLE KINSLOW RYAN HUFF
As hard as it might be to imagine, alumnus Ruelle Kinslow’s current Kingfisher County address is the only one he’s ever known. He is the first African-American to hold a seat on the Kingfisher Hospital Board, Kinslow was an active member of numerous other area boards and communities.
REV.
ROBERT E. MCCLISH II
Alumnus Reverend Robert E. McClish II has been named the new pastor of Washington Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, becoming the church’s 9th pastor in its 115-year history.
PATRICK GREEN
Alumnus Patrick Green was named the President and CEO of L+M Healthcare of Westerly Hospital in Lakewood, Colorado. Prior to this appointment, he was the senior executive vice president and chief administrative officer of St. Anthony Hospital in Colorado.
Alumnus Steven Harris former Regents scholars student recently joined Paycom as a quality assurance specialist.
Alumna Tiffany Swift Broiles was recently named Vice Chair of the Tinker Federal Credit Union Board.
New LEADERSHIP
MRS. MARLA MAYBERRY MR. KAVARIS SIMS
Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement and External Affairs
Assistant
Dean of Students
Mrs. Marla Mayberry comes to Langston University with more than 20 years of progressively responsible experience leading nonprofit and higher education development teams. Mrs. Mayberry has led these organizations through start-up, survival, turnaround and growth modes.
During her career, Mrs. Mayberry has spent four years as a Chief Executive Officer, 11 years as an Executive Director and five years as Regional Director and Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations in a variety of organizations. Her understanding of both distribution channels encompasses major fundraising, community advocacy and involvement, strategic planning, process improvement, financial management, leadership, and government.
Mrs. Mayberry’s leadership extends beyond the workplace. She is a member of the Board of Trustees of Phillips Theological Seminary, 2025 Vision Commission Board, City of Tulsa, Economic Development Initiative – Leadership Team, Links, Inc. and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She holds a Master of Human Relations degree with an emphasis in Organizational Development from the University of Oklahoma and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Langston University. Mrs. Mayberry and her husband Lee are the parents of 5 daughters and one grandson.
Mr. Kavaris Sims, a native of Austin, Texas, is a student affairs professional specializing in serving underrepresented student populations while addressing achievement gaps for students from lower socioeconomic communities. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master of Education in Urban Education from Langston University. During his time as a student at Langston University, Sims demonstrated exemplary leadership as the 29th Mr. Langston University, Chair of the Langston University Ambassadors, member of the SGA Executive Board, and Langston University National Pan Hellenic President, Vice President, and Activities Coordinator. Sims was also honored with the Dr. Ernest L. Holloway Student Leadership Award in 2013. While completing his graduate degree at Langston University, Sims worked within the Division of Student Affairs coordinating special programs and intramural sports.
Sims comes to Langston University from his previous role serving as Director of Student Activities for Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas. Sims’ experience in student development and leadership have afforded him opportunities to present at institutions such as Harvard University, Texas A&M University, The University of Texas at Austin, as well as many other institutions nationwide. As an experienced student affairs practitioner, Sims leads with a forwardthinking, student-centered philosophy to enhance the co-curricular experience and promote student success. He believes students are the architects of student life and that we as administrators should foster environments inclusive of student creativity, diversity, and leadership.
DR. JASON JOHNSON
Executive Director of Enrollment Management and Chief Enrollment Officer
Jason Johnson is a 1997 graduate of Honey Grove High School in Honey Grove, Texas. He earned a football scholarship to Oklahoma State University where he graduated with a BS in Health Promotion and a minor in Business in 2002. He then went on to earn a Masters degree in Education with an emphasis on urban environment from Langston University. Recently, Jason completed a PhD in Social Foundations in Education with a cognate in Higher Education Leadership. Equipped with his passion for learning and his desire to experience new cultures, Jason has studied abroad in countries such as Belize, France, Senegal, The Gambia, Ghana and Pueblo, Mexico.
Jason has over 15 years of experience within student services, having served as the Director of Upward Bound at the University of Oklahoma and working with Educational Talent Search at Langston University. As Coordinator of African American Affairs at Oklahoma State University, he assists students in refining their academic skills and utilizing campus resources, promotes understanding of the student’s culture and respect for other cultures, and serves as advisor for the African American Student Association. Currently, Jason is the Acting Executive Director of Enrollment Management at Langston University.
In addition, Dr. Johnson was recently published in the Journal of Educational Studies, where he challenged educators to become more socially involved in the issues that are facing African American students on college campuses and public spaces. Bringing his passion for students, travel and research together, Jason is currently developing a study abroad course for students that will explore post-colonial effects on marginalized populations in the Global South.
On a personal note, Jason and his wife Courtney have three children—Aiden, 10, Ashlyn, 8 and newborn, Austin. He is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, American Educational Research Association, NASPA and volunteers his time with Man Up, a local non-profit organization focused on gang prevention.
turn up the volume
MARK GORDON GEARS UP TO TAKE THE LU MARCHING PRIDE TO NEW HEIGHTS
This June, the Marching Pride Band welcomed their new director of bands Mr. Mark Gordon. Under his direction, the band has seen a dramatic increase in participation. Through aggressive recruitment efforts over the summer, the membership has more than tripled since last year. With approximately 112 freshmen, there is now a total of 148 people in the band program as a whole, which includes members of the band, Color Guard, Felines, and the equipment staff.
When Mr. Gordon was approached by LU alumnus, Mr. Malachi Brown he was compelled to apply. He brings with him more than 20 years of experience directing bands at the high school and collegiate level. His bands have won more than 30 first place trophies from a number of battle of the band events and competitions in Texas and Louisiana.
His proven recruitment methods were successful, but now the real work begins. He believes that building a solid program is key. Through rigorous band practice that takes place three to four times a week, the band is being groomed to perform at events and competitions across the country. One of the main focuses for the program this year is working on the fundamentals including marching style, characteristic sounds for the instruments, discipline, and solid practice habits to be successful.
The band started the season off with a spectacular performance at the LU vs. SU football game in Baton Rouge. This year he hopes that people will see a different version of the Marching Pride band as far as field shows, sound, and style. He is looking forward to hosting the Battle of the South on November 3, 2018, in the W. E. Anderson Stadium. The band has a number of performances throughout this year which include appearances at the MLK Grand Parade in Houston, Texas, the HBCU Softball Tournament, the 89ers Parade and Mardi Gras in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. For a full schedule of events, please visit www.langston.edu/marchingpride.
He believes that putting in the work through solid discipline and structures the band will thrive on and off the field. “We have to create a culture of excellence on and off the field. The standard of learning has to be instilled in band rehearsals and in the classroom.”
He has implemented a mandatory study hall for all band members every Monday night. Band members meet in the library and are encouraged study in groups in order to maintain their grades.
Retention is also a top priority and he said that his end goal is always going to be graduation. He wants to ensure that he does his part to make sure these students are successfully graduating on time. “It is my hope that once they graduate they will give back and be productive alumni.”
NEW BEGININGS
LU NOW OFFERS NURSING PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY CENTER OF SOUTHERN OKLAHOMA
The University Center of Southern Oklahoma (UCSO) was recently approved to offer a bachelor’s program for nursing students from Langston University. Recruiting for its staff will begin in the fall, and classes will start in spring 2019.
“We plan to admit at least 24 qualified students in spring 2019 with an increase in the number of admissions each spring.”
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) offered in Ardmore will be the same program as the one on the Langston campuses and Tulsa. The course offerings will also include an RN-BSN and an LPN-BSN track. The new program offering provides the community an affordable and local option.
“We plan to admit at least 24 qualified students in spring 2019 with an increase in the number of admissions each spring,” said Dr. Teressa Hunter, Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions.
“ The increase in the number of admissions will depend on the hiring of additional qualified faculty and clinical sites availability.” Before the approval of the program, Langston University administrators met with the Ardmore Chamber of Commerce to discuss the community’s needs and requested a community needs assessment for Ardmore, something the University Center hasn’t done since 2007.
A recent news article in the Daily Ardmoreite quoted that “Langston University has been wonderful to work with,” UCSO Interim CEO Peggy Maher said. “I especially like their commitment to working with the Ardmore community. They’ve met with the Chamber of Commerce, and they went to the superintendents, they want to find out what Ardmore’s needs were.“
“Our goal was to survey the local patrons to find out what the community wanted from the program,” said Mautra Jones, Langston University Vice President of Institutional Advancement and External Affairs. “We wanted to make sure that our program would ultimately to fit the needs of the surrounding community.”
In addition to the nursing program, Langston University’s administrators submitted a list of other possible degree programs to bring to UCSO in the future. The list included agriculture, criminal justice, cybersecurity, natural resources, conservation, and animal science programs.
RESHAPING
LIVES
Langston University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (LU-RRTC) serves as a center of national excellence in researching rehabilitation capacity building and infrastructure.
It’s easy to take everyday tasks for granted. Many reading this article never consider the struggle others may face each day. But for many, simple tasks like walking to the mailbox, checking a smart device, or even speaking isn’t possible without extensive rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation counseling is very complex and is adjusted to the different needs of the general population, which makes it difficult to serve disadvantaged and minority populations. That is why the Langston University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (LU-RRTC) serves as a center of national excellence in researching rehabilitation capacity building and infrastructure.
Its’ mission is to improve minorities’ disability, capacity and infrastructure by conducting a research examining experiences and outcomes of patients from traditionally underserved racial and ethnic populations and communities.
Earlier this year, the LU RRTC on Research and Capacity Building for Minority Entities released findings that will help state and federal agencies better predict and adapt to changing needs of minority immigrants. Dr. Corey Moore, professor and chairman of the Langston University’s Department of Rehabilitation Counseling and Disability Studies (DRCDS) led this study by comparing two forecast models to judge their accuracy in predicting minority immigration trends. The results provided a superior model and will be used in further studies.
This study was one of the eight highlighted studies that was published in the most recent issue of Rehabilitation Research, Policy, And Education, a leading refereed journal in the field of Rehabilitation Counseling and Disability Service, which also issue featured Dr. Moore as the guest editor. The LU-RRTC has received national recognition for these eight research studies led by Dr. Moore and his team of investigators and researchers.
Another study featured in the publication concluded that African-American and female veterans were significantly less likely to return to work compared to non-Latino White and female veterans after their military service. A sample of 11,603 people who were served by state vocational rehabilitation agencies was extracted and re-sampled across multiple trials to assess the relationship between race, gender, education level and their return-to-work. Researchers at Langston University will use the information gathered from this analysis for a more comprehensive study to examine co-service best practices between vocational rehabilitation agencies and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The following research titles are among the featured research studies they featured:
• Promising Models for Disability, Rehabilitation, Independent Living, and Health
• Predicting Rehabilitation Success Rate Trends Among Ethnic Minorities Served by State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies: A National Time Series Forecast Model Demonstration Study
• Minority-Serving Institutions and Disability, Health, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research Participation Challenges: A Review of the Literature and Policy
• Research Productivity in Rehabilitation, Disability, and Allied Health Programs: A Focus Group Perspective on Minority-Serving Institutions
• Career Development Factors for Minority Disability and Health Research Leaders: A Key Informant Study
In rehabilitation, some patients embark a very slow, tedious journey to relearn to walk one step at a time. The same is true for Dr. Moore and the LU-RRTC. Their research may appear small at first, but they are influencing the direction and findings of future studied conducted worldwide. Not only is the LU-RRTC leading the way to become top field experts, they will help rehabilitation facilities better serve minorities to get back on their own two feet.
To learn more about research featured and see a full list of the studies in this publication, please visit http://www. ingentaconnect.com/content/springer/rrpe/latest.
NO. 8 LIONS FINISH last year’s REGULAR SEASON UNDEFEATED
For the first time since 1973, the No. 8 ranked Langston Lions wrapped up 2017 with an undefeated regular season. The fourth annual All-OSN football team from OklahomaSports.Net was released with nine members of the Langston University football being selected to this year’s squad.
Langston University head football coach, Quinton Morgan, was selected as the OSN coach of the year after leading the Lions to a 10-0 undefeated regular season and a home playoff berth in the NAIA Football Championship Series.
Jamarae Finnie (SR/Tacoma, Wash.) was selected as the OSN Defensive Player of the Year and All-OSN first-team defense, racking up 64 total tackles, 33 solo with 7.5 sacks, and 17 tackles for loss; the senior defensive linemen currently ranks 10th in the NAIA in total tackles for loss.
Christopher Carillo (JR/Midland, Texas) and Michael Smith (SR/Compton, Calif.) were selected to the All-OSN first team.
Smith was second on the team in total tackles with 56 while finishing with 42 solo tackles, three interceptions and six tackles for loss; he finishes his LU career with 73 total tackles, one sack, six tackles for loss and three interceptions.
Timothy Whitfield, Trevin Carson (JR/Midwest City, Okla.), Tyler Bess (SR/Hollis, Okla.), Peter Gordon (JR/Del City, Okla.) and Eugene Fuller (SO/Stockbridge, Ga.) were all selected to the All-OSN second team.
Whitfield led the Lions in rushing for the season with 535 yards on 95 carries with seven touchdowns.
On the defensive side, Bess finished with 27 total tackles with three sacks, Gordon accumulated 48 total tackles to go along with three sacks, and Fuller finished fourth on the team in total tackles with 52 including 25 solo, one sack, one interception and two tackles for loss.
The All-OSN football team is comprised of standouts from the NCAA Division II and NAIA institutions from around the state of Oklahoma, with 11 different schools to have player nameds to the team.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
The Langston Lions advanced to the NAIA Division 1 Men’s Basketball National Championship quarterfinals for the first time in school history under head coach Stan Holt. for the 2017 season. The Lions finished the season 24-10 overall and ranked 10th in the final NAIA Division Men’s Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll.
SHE'S GOT GAME
DONNITA ROGERS HONORED AS 2016-17 RRAC ATHLETIC DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
Langston University’s Donnita Drain-Rogers has earned the distinction of 2016-17 RRAC Athletic Director of the Year, two years after returning to the school to take the lead role with the Lions’ program. Rogers was the head women’s basketball coach for Langston from 2000-08, and since her return in 2015, the department has reached new heights.
The RRAC AD of the Year award recognizes the athletic director who had the best year in overall program improvement, facility development, game administration, NAIA Champions of Character commitment, ability to hire, and keep quality coaches, program growth in sports and revenue opportunities, contributions at the conference and national levels, and student-athlete development.
“Although I am not surprised, I am proud that our Director of Athletics, Donnita DrainRogers, was selected for this prestigious award by the RRAC,” says Langston President Dr. Kent J. Smith, Jr. Donnita exhibits daily the rare combination of having a remarkably high work ethic while maintaining exemplary character at all times”
“We are blessed and honored to have her at Langston University and we appreciate the RRAC for recognizing her value and effort.”
Led by Head Coach Stan Holt, the Langston men’s basketball team reached the RRAC Basketball Tournament championship game before climbing to the Elite Eight of the NAIA tournament. The Lions won the RRAC tournament in 2016. Langston’s women’s basketball team also reached the RRAC tournament.
In the spring, Langston hosted the first ever National HBCU Softball Classic at ASA Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City. In addition to the Lions, seven visiting teams competed over two days including Grambling State University (La.) and Southern University (La.). Langston followed that with two upsets in the RRAC Softball Tournament to finish fourth in the event. The Lions placed third in RRAC men’s track & field and fourth in the women’s meet.
Langston had five volleyball all-conference selections, four in women’s basketball, five in men’s basketball and two NAIA All-Americans.
During the last year, Langston redesigned its athletics website to enhance its coverage and stepped up its efforts to provide news and content through social media.
Rogers graduated from Northwestern Oklahoma State University in December of 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education and an endorsement in Biology. She obtained her Master’s degree in Education Administration at Texas A&M University-Commerce. While attending NWOSU, she obtained such honors as NAIA National Player of the Week, Oklahoma Intercollegiate Conference Scholar-Athlete, OIC and NAIA District IX All-Conference Teams and Northwestern Ranger Queen in 1988. Rogers was inducted into the NWOSU Hall of Fame in January of 1998. After gruaduating, she served four years as Athletic Director for Women’s Sports at her alma mater.
During her coaching tenure at Langston, Rogers led the Lady Lions to six NAIA Division I National Tournament appearances. The 2007 season also marked Coach Rogers’s first trip to the Elite Eight of the NAIA Division I Women’s Basketball National Championship. Rogers has more wins than any other Langston women’s basketball coach and recorded nine consecutive winning seasons prior to leaving. Rogers’ teams went undefeated in conference play their last two seasons and won 34 consecutive conference games. Her 2008 team had a 27-game winning streak and consisted of Jamie Skinner, the RRAC Player of the Year, First Team All-American and State Farm All-American, as well as Dominique Thomas, the RRAC Defensive Player of the Year. Rogers’ 2007-2008 team finished with a #6 national ranking, a record of 31-2 and a berth to the round of 16 at the NAIA tournament.
Rogers coached for four years at Grambling and led the Tigers to two consecutive Southwestern Athletic Conference Tournament semifinal appearances. Rogers was named the SWAC Coach of the Year during the 2010 season and had the ninth-ranked recruiting class among NCAA Division I mid-major colleges in her last season.
Prior to becoming the athletic director at Langston, Rogers served as the head boys basketball coach at Booker T. Washington High School in Shreveport, La., and is the first female to coach a varsity boys’ basketball team in Caddo Parish. Rogers picked up her 300th career win during her first season and finished 22-9 and ranked #13 in 3A boys’ basketball this year. Rogers’ Lions made it to the LHSAA quarterfinals to achieve their best finish since the mid-1980s.
Rogers’ husband, Eric, is Youth Minister at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Grambling, Louisiana and a business entrepreneur.
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solar eclipse
While most LU students just enjoyed the once in a lifetime phenomenon, Professor Marcio White’s technology class set out to test the temperature variations and changes in solar energy during the solar eclipse.
NEW FACILITY GIVES THE SCHOOL OF PHYSICAL THERAPY A YEAR TO REMEMBER
With the completion of the new physical therapy building on the Langston campus in 2016, the Langston University School of Physical Therapy has had an entire school year to stretch, bend and flex their new state-of-the-art equipment, technology and furnishings in the classrooms, laboratories, and research facilities,to make it a year to remember.
The school now offers a cadaver lab to engage year 1 students and cadaver dissection during its basic anatomy course. This new method gives beginning students a better understanding of how bodies are different among people, hands-on experience that amplifies learning, and firsthand examples of the effects of disease.
The School of Physical Therapy graduation rate remained at 100 percent, which has been consistent for the past five years. The pass rate on the National Physical Therapy Exam also consistently remained at 98 percent over the past five years. These graduates were recently inducted as a new class of future Physical Therapist at the annual White Coat Ceremony!
The School of Physical Therapy students recently participated in a weeklong series of on-hands training at local farms. The second year physical therapy students visit local farms to better understand the physical demands of handling cattle and equipment so they can better develop practices and techniques to treat farm-related injuries.
Langston University’s 2018 Doctor of Physical Therapy class traveled to the State Capitol. Students had the opportunity to meet state legislators and learn about the importance of being involved at the State Capitol and be encouraged by legislatures to advocate for physical therapy throughout their professional careers. Students learned how to locate their legislature representatives, track bills online, and know about the standing committees of the House of Representatives and Senate. The students saw firsthand the process of how a bill becomes law. During their visit, LU students were recognized on the House of Representatives and Senate floors.
The School of Physical Therapy made many strides during the school year, but it will continue to work vigorously so that the program can continue to become bigger and stronger. Each step along the path of strength building requires support from others. Consider supporting the School of Physical Therapy, because your gift will help develop and enable a stronger future.
THE
SCHOOL OF NURSING AND HEALTH PROFESSIONS MAINTAINS EXCELLENCE
Under the leadership of Dr. Hunter, the Langston University School of Nursing and Public Health (SONPH) continues to reach new heights! The school has a longstanding history of producing some of the nation’s top healthcare professionals. Our 2017 nursing graduates boast a passage rate higher than the national average of 93 percent on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). This high-quality program continues to produce talented graduates that are ready to compete in the healthcare field once they graduate! Also, Langston University has been the top-ranked HBCU for Nursing for three years in a row, and the School of Nursing was ranked 27th nationally in 2017.
Members of the SONPH faculty have been working hard to continue their professional development. Larcille White, MSN, RNC-NIC, earned her national certification as a certified neonatal intensive care nurse. Jalelah AbdulRaheem, Ph.D., RN has a paper titled “Cultural Humility in Nursing Education” that was accepted for publication in the Journal of Cultural Diversity in June 2017.
The SONPH’s students continue to be our greatest asset. In May 2017, five LU nursing students were inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International, Upsilon Pi Chapter honors society for nurses. Ericka Adams, Larisa Bogonko, Olena Mykolayvina Hurst, Cyvil Mona, and Prabati D. Sapkota ranked in the upper 35 percent of their graduating class, maintained a 3.0-grade-point average or higher, and demonstrate leadership qualities.
Our students currently studying to work in the healthcare field are passionate about their industry and want to see positive change. The LU Public Health students attended the public health system performance assessment hosted by the Tulsa Department of Health. They had the opportunity to participate in different sessions and discuss local public health system assessment for the city of Tulsa.
The SONHP empowers their students through a variety of community service projects and activities. They continue to engage in the health community by providing free blood pressure checks, flu shots and participate in area health fairs hosted at local high schools and churches. Our students also held informational days where they distributed condoms and shared information about HIV/ AIDS to the campus community. They also hosted a series of events for the Langston campus community through their “Delete Blood Cancer” blood drive, “Great American Smoke Out Day.” Also, they participated in the “Nutrition and Wellness” project and hosted Tai Chi sessions to engage the adults living at the Langston Senior Center.
The SONHP continues to provide a dynamic, challenging and stimulating environment for students and faculty. However, these community initiatives and development opportunities are strengthened by the support and participation of the SONHP alumni. A gift goes a long way to help us continue to grow. Can’t make a financial contribution? Join us by offering your time or participation, and you too can help make this world a little better than before.
GLOBE-TROTTING
WITH THE SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE
The Langston University School of Agriculture and Applied Science may seem like a small college in rural Oklahoma, but its accomplishments and activities reach internationally. The work by the School of Agriculture’s faculty and students goes beyond borders.
The American Institute for Goat Research welcomed agriculture science students from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez campus they visited for a six-week summer internship. They also hosted five extension personnel from the Philippines for training in goat production and management sponsored by the Agricultural Training Institute of the International Training Center on Pig Husbandry (ATI-ITCPH) of the Philippine Department of Agriculture.
Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources reached national collaboration when students participated in research programs with United States Department of Homeland Security in 2016 and 2017. Continually growing from projects like the program with Homeland Security helped Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources to establish a fully operational GIS/GPS Laboratory. It was completely upgraded with new computers and software in January 2017.
Projects don’t have to be federal or even on the international stage. The work accomplished by some departments has helped benefit others, right here in Oklahoma. In 2016, the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources conducted an Animal Science Boot Camp for high school students. The informative program was created jointly with the Langston University Agriculture Alumni Association (LUAAA).
Initiatives like the Animal Science Boot Camp wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of LUAAA, and in turn, alumni like you. A gift doesn’t just support local research, but supports the betterment and improvement of agricultural science across the world.
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES SHOOT FOR THE STARS
There is virtually no limit to where students of the Langston University School of Arts and Sciences can go! The 2016-2017 semester was a testament of just how much potential students have when given the opportunity to shine and reach their academic goals.
The School of Arts and Sciences teaches kids to shoot for the stars early with a little help from the agency that knows the most about stars - NASA.
Nearly 40 students were selected to participate in the 2017 Math and Science Academy held on the Langston campus. Selected students were among Oklahoma’s best and brightest of those who excel in the math and sciences. The students were required to stay the entire length of the course as a resident student of Langston University. The program provided participants intensive research and training in the areas of biology, chemistry, stoichiometry, and mathematics including calculus graphing. This summer program is geared to teach critical thinking skills specifically for high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who excel in mathematics, science, and technology.
Langston University students have also reached new heights in their academic journeys. Student, Sharice Davis of Midwest City, was selected to represent Langston University at Research Day at the Capitol this past spring. Davis’ research focused on treated drinking water analysis.
Twenty-five undergraduate students representing nineteen Oklahoma colleges and universities met with members of the State Legislature at the State Capitol during the annual event designed to raise awareness of the outstanding research that is taking place at Oklahoma’s colleges and universities.
Myshal Morris was selected to participate in the Amgen Foundation’s prestigious Amgen Scholars Program. Morris conducted hands-on, cutting-edge research at Stanford University this past summer. Morris is one of nearly 350 students globally this year accepted to the program from over 5,600 applicants. In addition to his individual research experience, Morris recently attended the United States summer symposium hosted at UCLA and Amgen in July.
Quiana McKnight participated in the Division of Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases (KUH) Summer Undergraduate Research Program at the Yale School of Medicine.
The School of Arts and Sciences help students like Quiana, Myshal and Sharice to aim higher than they ever have. But our future needs to know that whatever they dream of when looking to the stars don’t have to stay dreams. Only generous supports from alumni like you can help make them a reality.
BUSINESS IS BOOMING AT THE SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
Students studying business understand the economics of commerce. They’re trained in understanding the theories of survival when sales, and the economy in general, are down. However, the Langston University School of Business continues to see the investments it has made in its students and community grow to new heights under the keen leadership of Dean Joshua Snavely.
Dean Snavely, who has been named Vice-Chair of the Institute at the 2016 Homeland Security Law Institute, has helped the School of business reach national attention. Thanks to thorough efforts to expand online offerings by leveraging the power of technology to reach new categories of learners through the Online BBA Program directed by Dr. Michael Hamilton, LU has been ranked as one of the “2016 Most Affordable Business Schools” according to CollegeChoice.net and ranked # 6 in Best Online Business Management Degree, according to Affordable Colleges Online.
The faculty are also proving to be valuable assets in expanding the School of Business’ proverbial profits. Mr. Ralph Grayson, Chair of the Computer Science Department, presented at the National Science Foundation Funded Research Experience for Undergraduates program hosted by Oklahoma State University. Dr. Charles J. Mambula I, Chair of the Department of Management, accepted an offer to become a visiting professor at the prominent
Nigerian Defense Academy for two years beginning in the summer of 2017. He also reviewed papers for Sage and Thunderbird publishers, had papers published in the International Journal of Applied Management Sciences, the International Journal of Innovation and Development and the African Journal of Management. Dr. Nancy Alexander, Assistant Professor in Management, received a grant from the National Science Foundation to explore the impact of networking relationships between general contractors and minority owned businesses.
Investing in business students has also produced dividends with 2017 Computer Science graduate Austin Jackson, received full time employment with Dell Computer, one of the largest technology companies in the world with 138,000 employees. Mikal Sanders, Christian Fields, and Luis Sierra participated in the National Science Foundation Funded Research Experience for Undergraduates program, produced research papers, and presented their research.
The only way to continue the kind of quality growth and expansion the School of Business has built is with the support of donors like you. Think of it as an investment. It’s not a personal venture, but an investment in the future.
MAKING LEARNING FUN IN THE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION
The School of Education and Behavioral Sciences (SOEBS) continues its’ effort to produce effective, informed, and reflective future STEM scientists capable of independent practice and professional growth in college STEM programs. Through grant funding, they were able to send one pre-service teacher to work as a summer intern at the AMES Research Center. Langston University junior, Brittiana Mcdowell traveled this summer to work with a research team and was afforded the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of Astrobiology.
Across departments, the School of Education and Behavioral Sciences (SOEBS) extended its reach through events and activities. This past spring, a group of Elementary and Special Education majors attended the “Connecting Across Cultures Conference,” where they had the opportunity to engage in a poverty simulation and resiliency discussions. The Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (HPER) department participated in two service learned projects. The department and its’ students hosted the Recreation and Wellness Extravaganza on the Langston campus for the fourth year in a row. In addition, the HPER majors made a presentation of funds to the Special Jays program at Guthrie High School. The funds were raised at last semester’s event, “Ultimate Family Field Day.” The event was jointly organized by the HPER majors and students from the Guthrie School District. The remaining funds raised were donated to the HPER department for new equipment.
The Department of Education and Professional Programs hosted various community engagement activities related to promoting awareness of program offerings and teacher education. Nearly 400 students from the Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Ardmore area attended the annual 5th and 6th Grade Day. As part of the new teacher recruitment initiative, they hosted the inaugural “Calling all teachers” event this past spring for students to learn about the professional education program offerings and career opportunities.
The Rehabilitation Department hosts various community engagement events and activities related to promoting social justice. For nearly a decade, they have hosted the annual Social Justice Symposium. The year’s symposium featured 25 speakers and had nearly 150 participants. It focused on educating the community by presenting the research conducted by the SOEBS faculty and students pertaining to social justice issues. In addition, this department hosted a series of events as part of their public advocacy initiative. First with the “End the Stigma: Be the Change” that engages the local community and surrounding areas, geared to increase awareness of mental health related issues in the community. They also spearheaded an event to engage with local high school students from surrounding to raise awareness through presentations and mixed media.
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JONES Vice President of Institutional Advancement and External Affairs EDITOR IN CHIEF
VONNIE WARE-ROBERTS Director, Alumni Affairs
MAYBERRY Assistant Vice President of Institutional Advancement and External Affairs MANAGING EDITOR
GRAY Media Relations Specialist CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
ARDENNA HARRIS Director, Sponsored Programs
COLE Communications Specialist CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
JILLIAN
Annual Giving Officer
Senior Graphic Designer/ Photographer DESIGN, LAYOUT & PHOTOGRAPHY LATONYA ANDERSON Gifts Manager & Development Specialist
CHRISTINA
MAUTRA
MARLA
JARED
BRANDON CLEMOENS
KEEP US IN THE LOOP
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