A MAGAZINE FOR NCCU ALUMNI, FRIENDS, FACULTY AND STAFF
FLY EARLY
30 YEARS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
100 YEARS: FIRST STATE-SUPPORTED LIBERAL ARTS HBCU
NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
Photo by DeAndres Royal ’10
06 Innovation
Upgrade to Housing
Nine residence halls and multiple research buildings saw upgrades this summer.
17 Resilience
Community Service Turns 30
Undergraduates at NCCU completed 161,300 hours of community service with an estimated economic impact of $5.6 million. 12 Transformation
Singing and Civil Rights
A book by Stephen Stacks, Ph.D., an assistant professor of music, delves into protest music and the Civil Rights Movement.
30 Leadership
NCCU Addresses Special Education Teacher Shortage
NCCU is working to alleviate a teacher shortage with its masters of arts in teaching (MAT) degree in special education.
38 Perspective
150th Anniversary of the Birth of Dr. James E. Shepard
NCCU recognizes the life and contributions of NCCU founder Dr. James E. Shepard.
44 Student Success
1,011 Graduates
This spring, graduates were told the world needs their voice and truth. 61 Giving Innovation Investment
Shelron and Gerald Robinson invest in Innovation Lab at School of Business.
Having a (Foot) ball
William “Bill” Hayes made a success of playing, coaching and breaking barriers.
Photo by DeAndres Royal ’10
MESSAGE from the CHANCELLOR
HIS FALL, WE REACHED A MILESTONE
that underscores the strength of our university: North Carolina Central University (NCCU) welcomed more than 9,000 students for the first time in our history. This record enrollment is more than a number – it is a clear signal that our mission, our values and our commitment to student success are resonating far and wide.
Despite the complex challenges facing higher education across the nation, from shifts in funding and demographics to increasing competition, NCCU continues to thrive. We are navigating this moment with resolve, innovation and unity. And we are doing so because of the enduring support of alumni, friends and partners like you.
Our retention numbers continue to grow as students feel something powerful at work at our institution. They experience an environment of energy and engagement that inspires them to persist, because our faculty, staff and student leaders are working every day to build a culture of belonging and purpose.
Our 2025 Aspiring Eagles Academy (AEA) cohort is a great showcase of this ongoing work. AEA supports incoming first-year students during their transition from high school, building their skills with a five-week summer bridge program, a living-learning community, travel abroad, and focused academic coaching and support. Half of each AEA cohort consists of first-generation students. and 30% of each cohort consists of NCCU student-athletes. Nearly 98% of AEA students return each year.
We are also building a campus that reflects our vision for the future. From new academic spaces to enhanced student housing and improved athletics facilities, we remain committed to transforming NCCU’s physical environment into one that matches the excellence happening inside our classrooms and across our campus.
As we reflect on these accomplishments, I invite you to continue walking alongside us. Your generosity fuels scholarships, supports groundbreaking research and ensures that the next generation of Eagles is equipped to lead. With your help, we will continue to be a place where purpose takes flight.
Let us soar to new heights, together.
In Truth and Service,
Karrie G. Dixon, Ed.D. Chancellor North Carolina Central University
NCCU introduced new elements to its NEW STUDENT INDUCTION & PINNING CEREMONY for the Class of 2029, including a carnation laying ceremony on Brant Street and a processional to McDouglad-McLendon Arena.
NCCU NOW MAGAZINE
is published by North Carolina Central University’s Office of Communications and Marketing, 1801 Fayetteville Street, Durham, NC 27707.
View the Fall 2025 digital version and past issues at issuu.com/nccentraluniv
NCCU NOW CONTRIBUTORS
CHIEF BRAND OFFICER Stephen W. Fusi
EDITOR Mark Lawton
SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Pandora Frazier ’82
WEB CONTENT MANAGER Jay Morrow ’95
WRITERS Michael Bailey ’97, Stephen W. Fusi,
Stephanie “Asabi” Howard, Terri Godwin
Hyman '99, '03, Anthony Jeffries, Mark Lawton, Quiana Shepard, André Vann '93, ’95
COPY EDITOR Cassandra Harper
PHOTOGRAPHY DeAndres Royal ’10, Tony F. Cunningham Jr., ’18
NCCU BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CHAIR Courtney Crowder ’00
MEMBERS
David Alexander ’94, ’99
Farad Ali
Roderick G. Allison ’95
William V. Bell
G. Keith Chadwell
Ryan Combs
Francesca D. Gary
Michael Goodmon
Lisa F. Martinez
Sha ‘Lexus Sanders ’26
Orlando R. Stovall ’76
Antwan Thornton ’15
CHANCELLOR'S CABINET
CHANCELLOR Karrie G. Dixon, Ed.D.
EXECUTIVE VICE CHANCELLOR
Alyn Goodson ’11
PROVOST AND VICE CHANCELLOR FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
Ontario S. Wooden, Ph.D.
VICE CHANCELLOR AND CHIEF OF STAFF
Gary L. Brown, Ph.D.
VICE CHANCELLOR FOR ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Laurie Wilcox
VICE CHANCELLOR FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS
Angela Alvarado Coleman, Ed.D.
VICE CHANCELLOR FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Susan Hester
DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
Louis "Skip" Perkins, Ph.D., ’94, ’98, ’00
NCCU PARTNERS with OPENAI TO LEAD AI LITERACY AND INNOVATION
BY QUIANA SHEPARD
ORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
(NCCU) is taking AI education to the next level thanks to its newest partner OpenAI.
Through NCCU’s Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Research (IAIER), this collaboration is empowering students, faculty and the Durham community with the skills to thrive in an AI-driven world.
The partnership kicked off with OpenAI Academy, a hands-on workshop where participants explored real-world applications of AI tools like ChatGPT.
and connect with professors across disciplines. Aligning what you’re good at with what you enjoy will set you up for success, whether in AI or another field.”
2025 OPENAI ACADEMY PARTICIPANTS
Shantel Riddick, a doctoral student in the Integrated Biosciences Ph.D. program, called the experience a game changer.
▼ BELOW: Leaders from education, government, industry, and the community gathered for the NCCU–OpenAI HBCU Summit.
(L to R), Ronnie Chatterji, OpenAI chief economist; NCCU Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon; IAIER director, Dr. Siobahn Day Grady; NC Representative Zack
“This partnership highlights NCCU’s commitment to innovation,” said Siobahn Day Grady, Ph.D., director of IAIER. “Together with OpenAI, we are breaking barriers and ensuring access to AI’s transformative potential.”
The event also featured a fireside chat with OpenAI Chief Economist Ronnie Chatterji, who shared insights on AI’s impact and career advice for students.
“The greatest advantage students have
“It deepened my understanding of AI workflows, enhanced my research and sparked creativity,” said Riddick.
“The OpenAI Academy workshop also reinforced integrity-driven AI use—skills I’ll carry throughout my academic career.”
And this is just the beginning.
NCCU and OpenAI are expanding their partnership with new workshops, developer training and events open to historically Black colleges and universities nationwide
NCCU Leads State with FIRST UNIVERSITY NURSING PROGRAM to Open Immersive Interactive Room
The department of nursing at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) has advanced simulated training for nursing students by opening an immersive interactive room.
Located on the second floor of the nursing building, the immersive interactive room will allow students to engage in virtual medical training scenarios.
NCCU’s nursing program is the first at a university in North Carolina to adopt this technology.
Among those are training scenarios on therapeutic communication, mental health, post operative complications
and rural community health simulation.
“We have access to more than 2,000 scenarios,” said Tina Scott, DNP, director of experiential learning.
Ceiling projectors project images onto three walls of the room. Nursing students in the immersive interactive room can also experience touch and even smell.
Say, for example, there is a scenario about a 14-car pile-up complete with police, paramedics, injured people on the ground and vehicles on fire.
“There are scent diffusers in there and fans on the ceiling that
will pipe in smoke, burning rubber and smells from the environment,” said Scott.
In another scenario, “(Students) are immersed in a virtual hospital,” Scott said.
“They can see a virtual patient in a bed. It’s a replica of a hospital setting. It has monitors and a sink. They can also see other nurses. They can see the patient’s chart and look up other assessments.”
If that’s not real enough, nursing students can also talk with the virtual patients in real time.
When each scenario is over, instructors review the student’s action.
In addition, the nursing department has obtained 360degree cameras so they can create their own scenarios.
“We can be really specific to the community,” Scott said.
▲
Nursing students can experience virtual training scenarios that offer sight, touch and smell.
In summer 2024, the department introduced virtual reality equipment to its students.
Students wear an oculus (headgear covering the eyes) and handheld controls. The gear allows them to view and interact with simulated medical training scenarios, up to and including having real time conversations.
“We will produce nurses in quality and quantity that are needed in North Carolina and the United States,” said Mohammad Ahmed, Ph.D., dean of the College of Health and Sciences.
“This is part of our expansion.”
SUMMER 2025 IMPROVEMENTS TO CAMPUS INFRASTRUCTURE ARE Just THE BEGINNING
BY MARK LAWTON
OVER THE SUMMER
, the department of facilities management mostly focused on two subjects: the older residence halls and research buildings.
“We’ve done a refresh to spaces and moderate overhaul to the building systems and automated controls including chillers, cooling towers, and elevators through contracted work, and replacing plumbing and mechanical parts, air handling belts and filters, and pest control through building maintenance,” said Jerry Guerrier, associate vice chancellor of facilities management.
This work is just the beginning, as improvements will continue to be made throughout the academic year.
The residence halls that have been identified are Rush, Ruffin, Eagleson, Eagle Landing, Martha Street, New Residence Hall 2. Chidley North and Debra Saunders-White.
The work done aligns with the second goal of the university’s recently completed strategic plan, “Soaring to New Heights: Vision 2030.” That goal includes “prioritizing the enhancement of housing, athletics, recreational, instructional and research facilities.”
If you notice a lot of activity happening around campus, it's important to keep two key points in mind.
First, a large number of the buildings on the campus of North Carolina Central University (NCCU) are
JERRY GUERRIER associate vice chancellor, facilities management
old with systems and infrastructure that exceed their life span. Those structures were built when NCCU (then named the “National Religious Training School and Chautauqua for the Colored Race”) was founded in 1910 through a pre-WWII building boom.
“The plumbing, heating and chilling towers – we can’t get parts for some of these (older) systems,” said Guerrier. “Then we upgrade them with new components and systems.” Replacement, upgrades and renovations, however, can take time. Most projects can take two years to complete.
For example, there is a major project to keep the campus steam plant working until it can be replaced with more energy efficient options –hot water or natural gas systems – to cool and heat buildings.
“The steam plant is at least 50 years old,” said Guerrier.
It’s important to note that a number of projects were put on hold during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic due to supply chain issues and the increasing costs of materials and labor.
“We tabled them until the market settled in late 2023,” Guerrier said.
For those who are curious, new construction on campus is largely contracted out for design and construction, although it is overseen by NCCU project managers.
Operations (repairs, maintenance) are more of a mix, with an estimated 65% conducted by NCCU staff.
The residence halls that have been targeted are Rush, Ruffin, Eagleson, Eagle Landing, Martha Street, New Residence Hall 2, Chidley North and Debra Saunders-White.
Project Updates /In Design:
Renovating Dent Human Sciences Building.
Renovating Edmonds Classroom Building.
Overhauling the University Theatre in Farrison-Newton Communications Building.
HVAC and building automation systems renovations are in demand at Albert L. Turner Law School Building, L.T. Walker Physical Education and Recreation Complex and H.M. Michaux Jr. School of Education Building.
Interior, building systems and envelope renovations are in design for the Lee Biology and Taylor Education buildings.
Designer advertisement for upgrading building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire protection, etc.) at Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise and Mary M. Townes Science Building.
Work in Progress:
Installing a new ramp in the Library Bowl. The old one had been impacted by tree roots. In process as of early September.
The Collaborative Learning and Research Center on the northwest corner of Fayetteville and Lawson Streets is expected to be finished by the end of September. In early August, utilities, including a stormwater line, were connected.
A new radio station plus teaching space is expected to be completed in Farrison-Newton by the end of September.
Completed
Completion of new concrete pad at the William Jones Building to make the lower level more accessible to people with disabilities.
Adding to the Pile: New Music Draws from Disparate Sources
BY MARK LAWTON
IN HIS NEW COLLECTION of compositions titled “Leaps & Bounds,” Lance Hulme, DMA, pulls from various countries, cultures and musical styles. Hulme, an associate professor of music at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), includes Appalachian folk, medieval chant, solo piano, jazz and even a piece which juxtaposes rock-inspired flute with Japanese Shakuhachi music.
“It’s typical of me,” said Hulme. “I like picking up things and saying ‘I like that. I’ll add it to the pile.’ A good musician should be able to make music with two sticks and a rubber band.”
He has been adding to the pile for quite some time.
“The first time I remembered a composition, I was four years old,” Hulme said. “They played a piece at church, and I was spellbound.”
At age seven he started piano lessons. At 16, he composed a piece for his high school orchestra. From age 18 to his mid 20s, Hulme made his living as a jazz pianist. “It was a big age of jazzfusion,” Hulme said. “I was one of those guys with six or seven keyboards. That takes a lot of investment. I was having more success in the world of orchestral music.”
Along the way, he completed degrees in music at Yale University, Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester and studied at the University for Music in Vienna, Austria.
For the next 17 years he lived in Europe – mostly based in Germany but with time in Austria – where he led a chamber ensemble and worked as a freelance musician, arranger and transcriber for various institutions, ensembles and individuals.
An offer to teach brought him back to the United States in 2003 and to NCCU in 2010. He teaches aural skills, music
theory, composition and music technology. In fall 2025, he will teach a new course in sound design.
The 110 minutes of music on “Leaps & Bounds” is a compilation of mostly commissioned pieces, with one composition that dates as far back as the 1990s. Hulme’s knowledge of musical technology was useful as he did most of the recording (with assistance) plus mixing and post-production. Assistant Professor Pankita Patel of the department of art and
design created the cover art.
“Art is the human experience held still for a moment,” said Hulme. “I do that in music, to some extent. I try to create something that a listener comes to and, regardless of their knowledge of the genre style, it changes how they experience life.”
This is Hulme’s second CD, although his music has also appeared on CDs by eight others. The twocompact disc set was published by Métier Records (England) in April 2025.
History and High Tech Investigate Cemetery
BY MARK LAWTON
TWO DEPARTMENTS AT NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY (NCCU)
are researching a century-and-a-half old cemetery using both old obituaries and modern technology. Their work will be a starting point for a new NCCU course in researching African American and Native American cemeteries in central and eastern North Carolina.
In August 2024, an alumnus who serves as deacon at Hickory Grove Baptist Missionary Church in Chapel Hill contacted Calleen Herbert in the Office of Community Engagement and Service (OCES), asking if NCCU could assist in determining who and where people are buried in the church cemetery. OCES contacted Charles Johnson, Ph.D., chair of the history department.
Art is the human experience held still for a moment. I do that in music, to some extent. I try to create something that a listener comes to and, regardless of their knowledge of the genre style, it changes how they experience life.”
lance hulme
Johnson, in turn, contacted Tim Mulrooney, Ph.D., an associate professor in the department of environmental, earth and geospatial sciences (DEEGS).
Ella Brown, an undergraduate studying public history and Bibi Miller, a graduate student in history– will conduct research and develop a burial database. Sources of information could include genealogy records collected by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), census tracts, NC.org, newspapers.com, death notices, personal papers, and obituaries, etc.
The students will also interview members of Hickory Grove Baptist Missionary Church to learn about the church’s history and its member families.
(continues on page 14)
“It will allow us, in a manner of speaking, to bring these people back to life,” Johnson said. “People in the community who were important and contributed to the community.”
Meanwhile, DEEGS will use drones and ground-penetrating radar.
“Our goal is to help map the extent of the cemetery as there are possible unmarked graves as well as the forest, which is overtaking the southern part of the cemetery,” Mulrooney said. “Dr. Johnson pointed out some graves that are in the woods on the cemetery’s edge.”
That is typical.
“Unfortunately, indigenous and African American cemeteries are more neglected than other cemeteries,” Mulrooney said.
During a September visit, Mulrooney and a student flew a drone that captured 400 images. Those images will be developed into a single composite image.
TIM
MULROONEY, PH.D
associate professor, department of environmental, earth and geospatial sciences
Next, DEEGS will return with a drone equipped with infrared capabilities. Ultimately, the two departments will share their findings with the aim of developing a map with plots and records attached to a map that contains real world locations.
“It will give longitudes and latitudes that might line up with old cemetery records,” Mulrooney said.
“It’s a good marriage between humanities and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics,” said Johnson.
The research is important for at least two reasons. First, the techniques applied at Hickory Grove Baptist Missionary cemetery could be used at other cemeteries, particularly larger ones. Those techniques include the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning. Second, “Protecting these places for the safekeeping of history and the historical voices of the community,” said Josue Millan, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher in DEEGS who is working on the project.
The end of the Hickory Grove project does not mean the end of such research. The two departments are developing a course on researching and mapping historic cemeteries, which will be jointly taught by Johnson and Mulrooney. They are currently seeking grants to fund the course and research.
Our goal is to help map the extent of the cemetery as there are possible unmarked graves as well as the forest, which is overtaking the southern part of the cemetery. Dr. Johnson pointed out some graves that are in the woods on the cemetery’s edge.”
▼ Charles Johnson, chair of the NCCU history department, talks to people at Hickory Grove Baptist Missionary Church in Chapel Hill.
Singing and Civil Rights Subject of New Book
BY MARK LAWTON
PROTEST MUSIC AND THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT
are the focus of a new book by Stephen Stacks, Ph.D., an assistant professor of music at North Carolina Central University (NCCU).
Protest or ‘freedom songs’ were an essential part of the ‘classical’ period of the Civil Rights Movement, bookended by the Montgomery bus boycott of 1954 and the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in 1968.
“Singing was deeply important to people who were leading and guiding the Civil Rights Movement,” said Stacks.
In a way that might be hard to imagine today, group singing was more common. “The original Civil Rights protesters were predominantly Black church people,”
It was common, for the lyrics of songs to be changed. 'We Shall Overcome,' for example, started off as a gospel tune.”
— STEPHEN STACKS PH.D.
Stacks said. “You could start singing one of hundreds of songs and they would recognize it.”
Among them were songs like “This Little Light of Mine,” “Wade in the Water” and “People Get Ready.”
It was common, said Stacks, for the lyrics of songs to be changed. “We Shall Overcome,” for example, started off as a gospel tune.
“It went through several iterations,” said Stacks. “It was used in a protest in Charleston for a cigar factory workers strike. Then, during the Civil Rights Movement, there was a version of the song taught at Shaw University for those who were organizing the (continues on page 16)
By the late 1960s, however, freedom songs became a point of contention.
In fact, SNCC had their own singing group, the Freedom Singers.
“They did concerts,” said Stacks. “Not just for entertainment but to educate on what was happening in the South. They called themselves a singing newspaper. It is one of the reasons white students from New England came down South for the Freedom Summer (in 1964).”
By the late 1960s, however, freedom songs became a point of contention. “Malcolm X didn’t care for them,” Stacks said. “They felt naïve. Lyrics like ‘we shall overcome someday’ felt passive and not strong enough to him. ‘What do you mean, someday? People are dying today.’”
“The Resounding Revolution: Freedom Song after 1968,” written by Stephen Stacks, Ph.D., assistant professor of music at NCCU.
Likewise, with the rise of younger activists such as the Black Panthers, freedom singing became less important to some.
In a chapter on protests, Stacks gives examples of how freedom singing did not entirely disappear after 1968. Another chapter focuses on the false dichotomy in American memory between the “good” Civil Rights Era in the 1960s – think church singing, Martin Luther King Jr. – vs. the “bad” later era with younger secular activists.
“The Resounding Revolution: Freedom Song after 1968” evolved from Stack’s doctoral dissertation research, which he started about 10 years ago. It was published in May by the University of Illinois Press.
FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ITS 115-YEAR HISTORY, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) has passed the 9,000-student mark, delivering the university’s largest enrollment and continuing a trend of record growth.
EXPERIENCE MEETS ASPIRATION AT ROTC ROUNDTABLE
BY MARK LAWTON
Chancellor Karrie Dixon pays tribute to Jocelyn Mallette, the first African American woman to serve as secretary of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
Former high-ranking military officials offered advice and recollections to more than 70 Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets during a roundtable discussion. The March 21 event took place in Lowe’s Auditorium in the North Carolina Central University (NCCU) School of Business.
Jocelyn Mallette, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, briefly spoke of the history of the armed forces. It was the National Defense Act of 1916 that created the ROTC.
Black servicemen, however, were segregated and only allowed support roles such as stewards, cooks and drivers. It wasn’t until 1948 when President Harry S. Truman banned desegregation in the armed forces.
JOCELYN MALLETTE
THE FIRST African American woman to serve as secretary of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
During a question-and-answer session, a cadet asked the panelist key qualities of an effective leader.
“I had to demonstrate I was an effective leader,” said retired Brigadier General Jimmy McMillan of the U.S. Air Force. “I came in as a 22-year-old and oversaw men twice my age. Most had
seen the gore of war, and I had not.”
Another cadet asked retired Lieutenant General Kevin Vereen of the U.S. Army the challenges of overseeing a $20 billion budget.
“It wasn’t even close to what we needed,” said Vereen.
“We had to justify all our requirements to Congress.”
Also taking part was retired Brigadier General Arnold Gordon-Bray of the U.S. Army.
During a short video, Gov. Josh Stein said, “America’s military has only been desegregated for 77 years but African Americans have fought for our country since it was founded.” To the cadets, he said, “You have chosen an honorable profession.”
On the governor’s behalf, Mallette presented a proclamation to Chancellor Karrie Dixon, who made the opening remarks.
DIRECTOR GETS A LAST LAUGH
BY MARK LAWTON
As the cast of “Livin Fat” conducted a rehearsal at the North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Theatre, Assistant Professor Kenneth Hinton took notes on a legal pad on the edge of the stage. When the first act was complete, the cast stepped down to the audience seats and Hinton ascended the stage to offer advice.
He advised one cast member to use two different voices during a scene – one voice for talking to his girlfriend on the phone, the other for a friend in the room who keeps interrupting. He tells others where they should stand or move.
“You got to start running around the set,” Hinton says and demonstrates, causing the cast to laugh.
“Livin Fat” is comedy about a young man named David Lee who is working as a janitor in a bank when robbers come in. During the confusion, Lee grabs a stack of cash. His parents advise him to return the money and turn himself into police. His grandmother, however, advises Lee to enjoy his new wealth.
The play was written by Judi Ann Mason when she was 19 and was produced off Broadway in 1976 by the Negro Ensemble Company. Mason went on to write for the TV comedy “Good Times,” other TV shows and some movies.
Shahim Faircloth portrayed Lee. A theatre major, Faircloth says one challenge of this play is the time period.
Assistant Professor KENNETH HINTON, who had taught at NCCU since 2004 and retired after directing “Livin Fat,” said he wanted to go out on a comedy.
Exam Passage for Latest Nursing Class
BY MARK LAWTON
The accelerated bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) continues to prepare graduates well for their professional examination, as evidenced by 100% pass rate of its December 2024 graduating class.
“With the nursing shortage, it is important for them to pass as soon as they can,” said Yolanda VanRiel, Ph.D., chair of the department of nursing.
“I feel the 1970s is a tricky time to replicate,” Faircloth said. “I was born in 2003. Just to get the rhythm of how they spoke back then.”
Hinton acknowledges the challenge.
“These students are so young; you have to teach them the nuances. In the 1970s, people walked slower with a bit of a bounce.”
Kelyse Raiyel, also a senior majoring in theatre, portrayed the mother of Lee. She particularly enjoys her onstage interactions with Big Momma, the grandmother.
The actors interviewed agreed that audience members usually don’t understand how much work goes into a play.
“From the outside looking in, it can look easy,” Raiyel said. “Just get up there and say a few things. We put in long hard hours. We go to school, come here (for rehearsal) and don’t leave until about 11 p.m.”
Hinton, who had taught at NCCU since 2004 and retired after directing “Livin Fat,” said he wanted to go out on a comedy.
“We haven’t done a really good slapstick comedy in a while now,” Hinton said. “We’re always doing dramas and biographies and stuff that tries to educate people. This is my last play, and I wanted to do something fun, something that the kids could enjoy.”
Though he is exiting NCCU, Hinton will continue to direct plays at Agape Theatre Project in Raleigh.
That success rate on the nursing exam, called the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), came out of initiatives from a university-wide task force developed a few years ago. They include hiring full- and part-time tutors, a person to conduct remediation, a consultant to go over test-taking strategies plus a diagnostic exam to help determine when students are ready to take the NCLEX.
More recently, students have started using virtual technology simulations and going out in a mobile health clinic to conduct exams in the community.
“Students can use their clinical thinking and clinical judgment skills more often,” VanRiel said. “It brings in a piece of reality.”
Passing the NCLEX examination isn’t easy, said Helen Gordon, a clinical associate professor and academic success coach for nursing students and graduates. About 50% of success is knowledge, 30% is test-taking skills and 20% is having a good mindset.
“People underestimate, especially around testing, how much their mindset effects their success rate,” Gordon said.
Beyond effecting the careers of the graduates –they cannot practice nursing until they pass the NCLEX – a high pass rate is important to recruiting nursing students to NCCU.
“No one wants to go to a school where you pass the degree and fail the exam,” Gordon said.
According to the most recent estimate by the National Center for Health Workforce, there is a shortage of about 78,610 registered nurses in the United States. North Carolina ranks eighth highest in its nursing shortage.
BY MARK LAWTON
HIGH SCHOOLERS TRAIN ON NCCU CAMPUS
LATRISHA VALDEZ RUSHING program manager CEED
When university students exit for the summer, some are replaced by high school students. In summer 2025, there were at least 17 programs with 1,784 participants, according to Lauren Wilder, director of summer experiential learning.
Taking Care of Business: Summer Program Trains Future Entrepreneurs
Angelo Miller, 16, makes his own creamsicles and sells them in downtown Durham during the summer. He also has devised a business plan for
“I want to become an entrepreneur. I want to be my own boss.”
— ANGELO MILLER, High school student, Entrepreneurship Summer Camp
power-washing trash cans that are on curbs. “I want to become an entrepreneur,” Miller said. “I want to be my own boss.”
Miller is one of 22 high school sophomores to seniors participating in the Entrepreneurship Summer Camp. From 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. he went to the School of Business at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) and learned the process, from coming up with an idea to launching a business.
Prospective participants are required to submit a one-minute video about themselves, which is then reviewed by camp staff, said LaTrisha Valdez Rushing, program manager of the NCCU Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (CEED).
From July 7–18, participants heard from guest speakers at small businesses, created a brand, managed finances and pitched their businesses to other students. Miller found that last activity particularly useful.
“I am not the most social person, but I’ve learned to communicate with other like-minded people,” Miller said.
Like Miller, Milan Young, 16, wants to be independent.
“I want to be sure I can secure my own wealth and not need to rely on anyone,” she said.
With that in mind, she plans to develop a design business. So far, she has gained certification in three Adobe programs at Chapel Hill High School and plans to learn others. While she is not yet selling those skills, she has used them for high school theatre productions, classes and T-shirts.
Her favorite activity at Entrepreneurship Summer Camp is the morning ice breaker.
“One morning I had a Stanley water bottle, and I had to do a pitch to sell it,” Young said.
Johnathan Eaglin, 16, likes the Entrepreneurship Summer Camp so much that he is back for his second year.
“I produce music,” he said. “I’m selling these artists. I promote them and make the instrumentals for them to rap or sing on. I’m also interested in developing a clothing brand.”
Valdez Rushing approves. “We want them thinking entrepreneurial in everything," she said.
High Schoolers Intern in Chemistry Program on NCCU Campus
Every 43 minutes, Lindsay Pesina-Casillo and Lizania Argueta walk into a laboratory in the Mary Townes building to add a solvent to Hypericum walteri – a plant commonly known as Greater Marsh St. John's wort – and put it into a machine to be extracted.
“ I want to be sure I can secure my own wealth and not need to rely on anyone.”
— MILAN YOUNG, High school student, Entrepreneurship Summer Camp
“Nobody has done research on the plant before, and our aim is to see if it can help fight inflammation,” Pesina-Casillo said.
“I’ve been able to learn about working with drugs to treat cancerous cells,” Argueta said.
While Argueta and Pesina-Casillo may talk like college students, they are younger. During the school year, Argueta, 16, and Pesina-Casillo, 17, attend City Medicine Academy, a high school in Durham.
The two are spending eight weeks in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at NCCU as part of Project SEED. Project SEED (SEED originally stood for Summer Experiences for the Economically Disadvantaged) is a national program started by the American Chemical Society in 1968.
Faculty volunteers engage the participants in one-on-one mentoring.
(continues on page 22)
OMAR E. CHRISTIAN Graduate Faculty
GORDON IBEANU, PH.D.
Interim Director, BRITE
Argueta and Pesina-Casillo initially work with Omar Christian, Ph.D., to isolate anti-inflammatory compounds from natural sources.
Next, they will work with Manoj Prasad, Ph.D.; focusing on how various drugs and isolated plant metabolites impact mitochondrial proteins in relation to anti-cancer medication.
“Nausea is a big problem with cancer therapy medications,” Prasad said. “Studying how these drugs affect mitochondria might show us how to ease cancer therapy-related nausea by controlling mitochondrial proteins.”
Working with high school students is a bit different than teaching undergraduate or graduate students.
“In a university setting, students are fairly familiar with a lab,” Christian said. “With a high school student, it’s different. The use of chemicals and reagents has to be thought out ahead of time. Students go through six hours of online training in addition to safety training at NCCU before starting any lab work.”
Participants who receive a stipend will present their research at an event organized by the local chapter of Project SEED.
Both Christian and Prasad hope the summer program will spark the participants’ interest in the chemical sciences and perhaps studying chemistry at NCCU.
By the Numbers: Accounting Camp Sees Increase
Beneth Herrera would like to eventually open a chain of half-Mexican and half-Chinese restaurants. Though only 16 years old, she is preparing by learning Mandarin (she already speaks Spanish) and attending the Isaiah Tidwell Accounting program High School Business Accounting Summer Enrichment Camp at NCCU.
During one week in June, high school participants learned about finance and accounting basics, career exploration, college admissions and presentation skills. They also toured the campus, visited Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams, listened to visitors from the Big Four accounting firms and worked on a team project to determine whether to invest in a company.
In its three years, the camp has almost doubled its enrollment, increasing from 17 participants in 2023 to 29 participants in summer 2025.
The summer accounting camp is one of several actions the NCCU Department of Accounting is taking to increase interest in the field and perhaps studying accounting at the university.
Those include attending career fairs at Wake Technical Community College and Durham Technical Community College, presenting at high schools, working more closely with University College at NCCU, supporting the campus chapter of NABA Inc. (formerly the National Association of Black Accountants) and inviting speakers from accounting firms.
Along with the camp, those actions seem to have had an impact on enrollment. The number of students majoring in accounting at NCCU has increased from 79 in spring 2024 to 119 in spring 2025, said Raghavan Iyengar, department chair.
High Schoolers have a BRITE summer
This summer, 15-year-old Zariah Mayo set up classrooms for summer courses, got materials ready in a lab, staffed the front desk in the Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise (BRITE) building, answered phone calls and directed people.
“I never had the opportunity to work before,” said Mayo. “Most people don’t want to hire 15-year-olds.”
Mayo is one of four high school students working at BRITE through Durham YouthWorks, a program for people from the city and county of Durham aged 15-21. NCCU has partnered with Durham YouthWorks since at least 1994, said James Dickens, senior community & economic development analyst with the City of Durham.
“This program is building up the skills of young people, getting them ready for the world of work,” Dickens said.
The program is in two parts. Part one is online training. Part two is in-person work. Both parts are paid by the city of Durham.
“I like organizing the labs to prepare for the camp and setting up the different stations and tables,” said Alanni Williams, 15, who aspires to be a surgeon. “I’m very interested in science and seeing all the stuff they do.”
During the last week of employment, Stephanie Cooper , an administrative support specialist at NCCU, takes the participants to a computer lab and helps them create a resume and cover letter.
The tasks vary from summer to summer. In 2024, participants largely worked in the campus garden. In 2025, participants also helped out in the dean’s office.
“We have so many students who come here who have never worked before,” said Cooper, who oversees the participants. “A lot don’t know customer service or how to greet people. I try to show them the campus and see what college life is like.”
“We can see the different classes,” said Jada Monroe, 17, who is in her third summer with Durham YouthWorks. “NCCU is so big with so many different majors. It will help me to narrow my college choice.”
Gordon Ibeanu, Ph.D., interim director of BRITE, likes that Durham YouthWorks teaches participants good work habits.
“It teaches them how to show up to work on time, how to relate to other people, as well as problem-solving and thinking skills," said Ibeanu.
We have so many students who come here who have never worked before. I try to show them the campus and see what college life is like.”
— STEPHANIE COOPER, administrative support specialist
DIGGING NCCU: HBCU STUDENTS FIND AND ANALYZE VIRUSES
BY MARK LAWTON
“We are trying to expose students to an environment, so they get to feel what it’s like to be a researcher.”
— LINDSEY COSTANTINI, PH.D., assistant professor, department of biological and biomedical sciences
INJULY, MORGAN GODWIN
gathered soil samples in the garden beds behind Mary M. Townes Science Building and near the bull sculpture outside the North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Art Museum.
After noting the GPS coordinates, Godwin and her lab partner brought their soil samples to a laboratory in Townes and isolated bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria) from the dirt and then purified it to identify single phage populations. Next, they made sure the phage was concentrated enough so they could extract DNA and examine it with an electron microscope.
“The ultimate aim is to add to a database at (grant funder) Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI),” Godwin said. “There are also potential medical opportunities for antivirals, antibiotics and treatments for bacterial infections.”
This is the first time Godwin, a sophomore from Elizabeth City State University, has worked in a laboratory. She is one of 13 students from six historically Black colleges or universities taking part in the Science Education Alliance – Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science (SEA-PHAGES) program on the campus of NCCU.
Participants are nominated by faculty at their home institutions and then interviewed by HHMI.
At NCCU, the SEA-PHAGES summer program is overseen by Gail Hollowell, Ph.D., professor and chair and Lindsey Costantini, Ph.D., assistant professor, both from the department of biological and biomedical sciences. Guest faculty from other institutions visit NCCU for two-week stints to work with the student participants.
“This is a big deal for undergraduates to have this early exposure to research,” Hollowell said.
Participants receive a stipend and reside in a residence hall during the eight-week summer program. Mondays are reserved for professional development while Fridays are for community building. The rest of the week is about research.
“We are trying to expose students to an environment, so they get to feel what it’s like to be a researcher,” Costantini said.
This is the first time that Justin Acheampong is conducting scientific research. A sophomore at NCCU, Acheampong lists some of what he’s learned.
“Working with different bacteria, pipetting techniques, different measurements, how to take care of our stations while working with different materials,” Acheampong said. “If I go to a different lab, I could apply that knowledge.”
Acheampong said the biggest challenge is being patient. “With science, it’s a waiting game,” he said.
“You wait for results and hope for results. When you figure out there are no results, you try again.”
Eric Saliim, an adjunct associate professor at NCCU, said he sees the students increasing in confidence.
At first, “a lot of time they would defer to me for answers,” Saliim said. “Over the course of six weeks, they’ve taken ownership of what the next steps should be.”
And that is great.
“I want them to leave here with confidence that they could walk into a lab at any institution,” Costantini said.
“And to be an analytical thinker,” Hollowell said. “Why is this working, why is this not working, based on my results, is there something I can add to the literature.”
THE SEA-PHAGES SUMMER PROGRAM is overseen by GAIL HOLLOWELL, PH.D., (pictured right), interim chair and professor, Biological and Biomedical Sciences.
A lot of students who enter college get swept into a crowd. Aspiring Eagles students get hands-on guidance instead of trying to figure it out for themselves.”
—M c KAYLA YOUNG, DIRECTOR OF STUDENT TRANSITION AND ENGAGEMENT
Unlike summer bridge programs at other universities, staff follow ASPIRING EAGLES participants throughout their undergraduate degree. Up to four times a year, stºaff check in with students.
BY MARK LAWTON
Bridging High School and NCCU
SIXTY-FOUR
participants arrived on the campus of North Carolina Central University (NCCU) in summer 2025 in advance of their freshman year.
Those students, who are mostly first-generation college students or come from rural backgrounds, spent five weeks in a summer program named Aspiring Eagles Academy.
Started in 2009, the program offers three courses worth eight credits. Those are writing (English 1100), algebra and trigonometry (Math 1100) and a first-year seminar (Univ 1100).
The first-year seminar introduces students to college life and helps them develop the skills necessary for their success.
That includes learning about the resources available on campus, how to manage their time, money management, academic coaching, leadership training, cultural enrichment activities, an elevator pitch workshop, workshops on emotional intelligence and other help.
“A lot of students who enter college get swept into a crowd,” said McKayla Young, director of student transition and engagement. "Aspiring Eagles students get hands-on guidance instead of trying to figure it out for themselves.”
Nayla Hill, who is from Virginia Beach, Virginia, came into the program with good study habits and time management skills. She describes herself, however, as being dependent on her family.
“I think being out-of-state forces you to grow up,” Hill said. “Aspiring Eagles helps with being comfortable in a new environment, confidence and putting myself out there. (Also) holding yourself accountable. It’s easy to get mad at other people.”
The Aspiring Eagles participants live together in Chidley Hall. There are 10 student staff – all of whom went through Aspiring Eagles – who also live in Chidley Hall.
Unlike summer bridge programs at other universities, staff follow Aspiring Eagles participants throughout their undergraduate degree. Up to four times a year, staff check in with students.
“It’s hard to come to a program like this, which is rigorous and structured,” Young said. “Because of this, they are learning they can do hard things now.”
The program works. Four-year graduation rates are 50 – 65 %, significantly higher than for non-program participants, said Kweneshia Price, Ed.D., associate dean of student access, transition and engagement.
Sahniya Bilkerdyk from Dallas, Georgia, went through the summer session in 2023 and now is lead peer mentor for the 2025 summer program.
“I’m a bit on the introverted side so it helped me get out of my shell,” said Bilkerdyk. “It helped me develop academically, socially and motivationally. Even when I don’t go to my parents about something, I have someone here I can talk to – director, associate dean, academic coaches.”
Ayden Burton of Charlotte, North Carolina, felt academically prepared to attend NCCU. He applied to Aspiring Eagles partially so he can graduate early – “My parents are older, and I want to be able to support them earlier” – and the social aspects.
“Socializing with people from different areas or who have different upbringing than me,” Burton said.
Along the way, he’s learned perseverance. “There are times where it was tough to grasp the fact that I am by myself here,” he said. “When times are hard, I have to get through that.”
30 Years of Community Service
BY MARK LAWTON
THE COMMUNITY SERVICE requirement at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) was instituted in 1995 at the behest of then Chancellor Julius Chambers.
“We are an HBCU and in a mostly Black community,” said Rosa Anderson, who Chambers tapped to organize the NCCU Office of Community Engage ment and Service (OCES) at NCCU. “We didn’t see universities reaching out to the Black community. We felt we should be good neighbors and reach out to the community.”
Initially, the major challenge was one of perception. “Community service meant you did something bad,” said Anderson. “We had to deal with the stigma.”
The earliest students volunteered at recreational places and schools along Fayetteville Street, mostly within walking distance of campus. Over time, the pro
gram expanded. Today, students help out at 73 non-profits, 12 campus activities, two nationally recognized organizations, one city agency and one state agency. That’s according to Calleen Herbert, director of OCES.
A lack of technology in the early years meant students had to stop by the
office to submit their hours and find an entity to volunteer with. It also required more staff.
Community service was later incorporated into the curriculum of some courses. Today there are more than 150 such courses.
It wasn’t just about helping the community. “Research was done that showed students did better academically if they engaged in community service,” said Herbert.
Nowadays, undergraduate students can find entities to volunteer at on the OCES website. Or they can find their own opportunities. They are required to complete 15 hours per semester.
“One student wanted to volunteer at the Duke University Lemur Center,” Herbert said. “We connected with faculty over there. After nine years, we are still partnering with them.”
During the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic, students from the Julius L. Chambers Biomedical and Biotechnology Research Institute and nursing department assisted in clinics. Other students assisted with elder care, schools, community research or hurricane relief. One student, MAYA JACKSON, started Mobilizing African American Mothers through Empowerment, a maternal health nonprofit.
BOOK DRIVE GOES NATIONAL
When JESSIE MALIT transferred to NCCU from North Carolina State University, he was confronted with how to complete his community service, a graduation requirement at NCCU.
A defensive end on the football team, he started by bringing some of his teammates to a local food bank and later to a Boys & Girls Club. He also helped get NCCU athletes register to vote in the 2020 election.
His community service, however, took a quantum leap starting in 2018, when he decided to start a book drive.
Though Malit is from Concord, North Carolina, his family is from Kenya.
“Some of my cousins are from Kendu Bay, close to Lake Victoria,” Malit said. “School was not free there. I wanted to do a book drive to give the kids there an opportunity to learn without paying.”
Initially he got the word out through friends, former teachers and athletes.
He used his mother’s old Honda CRV to collect books from a multi-state region. As money came in, he shipped donated books directly to Kenya or sent some with an aunt who periodically visited Kenya.
During the 2020-2021 school year, Malit was with the football team for a game in Atlanta. The coach asked him to take part in media interviews before the game, a common request.
It wasn’t just about helping the community. Research was done that showed students did better academically if they engaged in community service.”
CALLEEN HERBERT director of the Office of Community Engagement and Service
At the field, he was in the midst of being interviewed when someone called his name.
“I saw the “Good Morning America” truck and my mom,” Malit said.
“Good Morning America” donated 6,000 books and aired a segment about Malit’s book drive. That led to working with Apple and Coca-Cola, which helped with distribution and increased book donations.
“From there it went crazy,” Malit said. “I was getting calls day and night. How can we help donate?”
Since graduating from NCCU in 2021, Malit has studied for a master’s in public administration (he is scheduled to graduate in December 2025) and aims to take the LSAT and enroll in law school in 2026.
He has continued his book drive with 10,520 books collected and more than 7,000 books shipped to Kenya.
“A shout out to NC Central,” Malit said. “Not a lot of schools require community service.”
J ESSIE MALIT ’21 , turned a graduation requirement into a mission—launching a book drive that grew from his mom’s Honda CRV to global donations from Apple, Coca-Cola, and “Good Morning America.” He continued his book drive with 10,520 books collected and has more than 7,000 books shipped to Kenya.
Jesus and a Therapist:
NCCU Tackles
Mental Health in Black Churches
BY MARK LAWTON
LORRAINE GRAVES, PH.D. associate professor and interim chair, department of social work
In the past at Lee’s Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Cedar Grove, North Carolina, mental health has not been on the agenda.
“Mental health has not been something that has been talked about in the African American church, traditionally,” said Associate Minister Arlinda Ellison. “There is this opinion that you don’t talk about it, you pray about it.”
Since early 2023, however, that has changed thanks to an outreach program from North Carolina Central University (NCCU).
Faith Alliance Intervention Towards Health (The Faith Project) was started in January 2023
by Lorraine Graves, Ph.D., associate professor and interim chair of the department of social work. With a $500,000 grant from the federal Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration, Graves began reaching out to churches. Currently, the program works with 15 churches in four counties. Ten of those congregations are primarily African American.
RECOGNITION, SUPPORT AND RESOURCES
Graves teaches people at churches how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental illness, how to support those experiencing mental health conditions or crisis and supplies community health resources such as a crisis phone number, support groups organized by the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) and therapists.
The church people who are trained – 5-20 people at a time for a total of eight hours – in turn spread the knowledge among their congregations. Graves emphasizes that the trained church congregants do not supply mental health services.
While Lee’s Chapel Missionary Baptist Church has had a focus on health for several years, mental health was only a small part of that. Ellison, who comes from a public health
background, said there were barriers to starting mental health training.
“Society has not fully made the connection between physical health and mental health,” she said. “We have a lot of elderly people in our church and their way of life was not to talk about this topic.”
The church pastor, however, got behind the mental health training. How people reacted to COVID-19 was also a factor.
“Especially the isolation piece,” Ellison said. “This was a great time to talk about mental health.”
NOT KNOWING WHAT TO DO
At St. Matthew Baptist Church in Raleigh, Vernetta Davis, who serves on her church’s health team ministry,
says the biggest challenge is decreasing the stigma and normalizing discussions about mental health.
“People have to know it’s OK not to be OK,” Davis said. “In the African American community especially, mental health has had a stigma. We are on a journey where we can no longer ignore mental health in the faith community.”
Davis, who is a licensed clinical mental health counselor, has seen indications that the training is having a positive impact at St. Matthew.
“We’ve gotten good feedback about it being a good tool and resource for them,” she said. “Also, some church members that reached out to me about getting connected to mental health services.”
Common mental health challenges could include depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and trauma.
“The biggest thing we see is not knowing what to do,” Graves said. “Parents might see something in their own children, a family member or a friend and not know whether to take it seriously or not. In addition to spiritual support, there are practical things (churches) can do,” Graves said.
Or as Ellison puts it, “You can have Jesus and have a therapist.”
Professor & Students Engage Durham’s Homeless for Critical Survey
BY MARK LAWTON
MONDAY NIGHT, JAN. 27, SIX PEOPLE
tramped through a wooded area in the Southpoint neighborhood of Durham. Besides conversation, the loudest sound was the crunch of leaves and fallen branches. Flashlights helped the group avoid some – but far from all – low-hanging branches.
About 175 people went out for the annual Point in Time (PIT) count, a survey of unsheltered residents in Durham. Among them were S. Nicole Diggs, Ph.D., an assistant professor of public administration and 11 current or former students from her master’s course in Urban Issues and Problems at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). While a national effort, the PIT count in
Durham County is organized by Housing for New Hope, a Durham-based nonprofit that has organized the count the last three years. During a short training, volunteers were asked to be respectful of homeless people –referred to as “unsheltered neighbors” – and their encampments. Do the survey quickly so participants can get back to their evening. If people were not willing to participate or
were asleep, just complete an observation survey of basic information like how many tents or the condition of the area being observed.
“People don’t realize that if you have a tent community, it’s still a community,” said Diggs. Scattered trash appeared at the first location, including an abandoned cardboard sign asking for money. No tents or people, however. The volunteers drove two minutes west and again began trekking through dark woods. After a few minutes of walking, a tent with a light inside appeared.
“Hey y’all, we’re here for the PIT count,” called out a woman from the HEART team, part of the city of Durham.
Two men, both bearded, exit the tent. NCCU students Anisti Barrett and Deiona Stanley stepped up and began asking questions, jotting down the answers on a smartphone app. Questions about health, when last housed, that address, substance abuse, age, race, ethnicity, etc. The interview only takes a couple of minutes.
One of the men interviewed said he had been living there three years.
Barrett said she was comfortable conducting the interview and that the survey is important. “Most of us are one or two paychecks away from being homeless,” she said.
If not most, at least many. In Durham County, 31% of households (47% of renters and 18% of homeowners) have difficulty affording their homes, according to the website of the North Carolina Housing Coalition.
HOMELESSNESS IN DURHAM COUNTY
In 2024, 405 people were counted as unhoused or unsheltered in Durham County according to Housing for New Hope. The actual number of unhoused or unsheltered people in Durham is probably higher.
“We will not get an accurate number,” said Russ Pierce, executive director of Housing for New Hope.
Instead, Housing for New Hope aims to see trends. Has the number of homeless clearly increased, like it did by an estimated 300% between 2018 and 2023? Has the need for
services like mental health or substance abuse counseling changed?
“We want to learn directly from people who are experiencing homelessness,” Pierce said.
Diggs said people are usually pushed into homelessness by compounded factors plus the lack of a safety net. “Let’s say you lose your job, but you have family in the area and can stay with them,” Diggs said.
“When you compound it with having a substance abuse issue, that can cause people to close their doors to you, heir doors to you," Diggs said.
A quick internet search brings up many entities – religious, nonprofit, government – that aim to assist people who are unhoused with food, a temporary place to sleep and treatment services (YELP has a listing for the best 10 homeless shelters in Durham). One even supplies showers and haircuts.
While their efforts are commendable, Diggs says the problem is too big.
“I’ve talked to people who help unhoused communities,” she said. “It’s like an emergency room. If you overuse it, it is no longer We don’t see homelessness until it hits massive numbers, instead of trying to address it early.”
Are there solutions or at least better ways to alleviate homelessness? Diggs suggests that nonprofits with overlapping find effective ways to partner. That thinks innovatively about housing, such as tiny homes, accessory dwelling units and splitting parcels. To acknowledge the connections between housing and education and housing and health.
Pierce agrees, adding connections to sup portive services like access to health care –including mental health and substance abuse treatment – and access to living-wage jobs.
PRECONCEPTIONS AND HOMELESSNESS
Student Jessica Watkins had preconceptions about homeless people.
“Traveling to and from campus, I see a lot of homeless people,” she said. “They might ap pear to be on drugs or I think in my head that they don’t want to work.”
On Jan. 27, she interviewed a white male in his 40s at a gas station. “He was next going to a friend’s home, but he was living outside that home.”
At another gas station, there was a Black couple who were reluctant to talk, although they did acknowledge plans to sleep in a car that night. Later, Watkins and her colleagues were unable to get past a barrier near Hillsborough Road to a third encampment behind a building.
“Most talked about the cost of living and losing jobs from the pandemic,” Watkins said. “Some were sick and didn’t have access to affordable health care. It was a range of issues.”
Among the questions was if the interviewees had any experience with drugs. “None of
Meanwhile, student Iana “Yana” Bakhmet and her group spoke to only one person, a Black woman in her 50s at the Streets of Southpoint mall.
“She was by herself with a lot of bags and belongings,” Bakhmet said. “She told us she has heart disease that prevents her from being employed. She talks slow. She would pause and rest. She’s been on the street for more than a decade. She said she had a master’s degree. I would never expect people like that to be on the street.”
Bakhmet, who is from Russia, said that while homeless is widespread there, it is less surprising.
“The average level of poverty in Russia is high,” Bakhmet said. “More people are poor.
“We don’t see homelessness until it hits massive numbers, instead of trying to address it early.”
S. NICOLE DIGGS, PH.D. assistant professor of public
administration
NCCU Addresses Special Education Teacher Shortage
BY MARK LAWTON
OR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR, 74% of elementary and middle schools and 66% of high schools said they had difficulty filling a special education teaching vacancy with a fully certified teacher. That is according to a survey by the U.S. Department of Education’s Center for Education Statistics.
The School of Education at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is working to alleviate that shortage with its masters of arts in teaching (MAT) degree in special education.
There are currently 120 students enrolled in the master’s programs which include students seeking licensure in three areas: adaptive curriculum to teach children with more profound disabilities; general curriculum, where graduates assist students with mild to moderate disabilities; and a general classroom teacher of students with visual impairments.
“Many of our students are offered jobs even before they complete their program,” said NIGEL PIERCE, PH.D., program coordinator.
We were able to apply our schooling into our daily work. It gave me a deeper understanding of what I did.”
—
AMBER WILSON special education teacher , durham public schools
Photo courtesy of Tony F. Cunningham Jr., ’18, Durham Public Schools
There are 14 different disabilities that are eligible for free appropriate public education and can range from moderate to severe.
Those are autism, deaf-blindness, deafness, emotional disturbance, hearing impairments, intellectual disability, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairments, other health impairments, specific learning disabilities, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury, visual impairments including blindness and developmental delay.
RECRUITING
Perhaps the biggest challenge is recruiting people into the profession of teaching special education students. North Carolina is one of the lower-paying states, ranked No. 42 nationwide for average starting pay in 2024, according to the National Education Association.
“There wasn’t an incentive for people to get master’s degrees,” said MAUREEN SHORT, PH.D., chair of the department of curriculum and instruction.
Pierce has seen improvement in pay rates for those with a master’s degree. Some k-12 districts even offer signing bonuses.
The department has received three federal grants to target recruits to earn a master’s in special education. “The hope is, if we can provide them with tuition and at least a minimal stipend, they would be willing to return to school and complete a master’s degree,” Short said.
In exchange, students are required to work two years for each year they receive funding.
Many of our students are offered jobs even before they complete their program,”
— NIGEL PIERCE, PH.D. program coordinator
“It’s a win-win for the hiring school district,” Short said. “They are guaranteed a teacher for at least four years.”
It worked for AMBER WILSON, a special education teacher at Durham Public Schools. “I don’t need any more debt from student loans,” said Wilson, a triple Eagle who earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at NCCU before starting on a master’s in special education.
Wilson was already teaching special education on a three-year license when she decided she wanted to earn a master’s and obtain a permanent teaching license. From August 2022 to December 2024, she took two to three classes per semester while continuing to teach.
“We were able to apply our schooling into our daily work,” Wilson said. “It gave me a deeper understanding of what I did.”
A couple of NCCU faculty in the program visited her classroom to observe and offer feedback.
It’s a challenging job. Wilson works both with small groups of children as well as in mainstream classrooms. For children with social-emotional needs, she might teach them how to socialize with their peers, self-regulate, self-advocate, time management, attention to tasks and conflict management.
Wilson is typical of the type of student the NCCU School of Education enrolls –someone already involved in special education. About eight to ten years ago, NCCU began targeting classroom teaching assistants in the Triangle area. “They are in the best place to get their license and be successful in the field, because they are already there,” Short said.
Other masters’ students are secondcareer individuals who have earned a bachelor’s degree in a non-teaching field.
The MAT degree program is a mix of online and in-person (hybrid) courses during the evenings, which allows those enrolled to continue working during their studies. Some faculty are available to talk to students outside regular business hours.
Next steps for the program include providing peer mentors to graduates who are teaching special education, ideally someone who is within the vicinity.
“Students get a sense of wraparound service,” Pierce said.
CURRENT STUDENTS enrolled in the master’s program.
DIFFERENT DISABILITIES eligible for free appropriate public education.
FEDERAL GRANTS RECEIVED to target recruits to earn a master’s in special education. 3
Dr. Gary L. Brown
VICE CHANCELLOR AND CHIEF OF STAFF
Brown joined NCCU as vice chancellor and chief of staff on July 8. An NCCU alum, he brings 20+ years of leadership across advancement, student affairs, athletics and institutional operations.
Aubrey Clark Brown
ASSOCIATE VICE CHANCELLOR AND DIRECTOR FOR BUDGET AND FINANCIAL PLANNING
Brown previously served as assistant vice president for financial planning and analysis at the UNC System Office.
Dr.
Rondall Rice
ASSOCIATE VICE CHANCELLOR OF ADMINISTRATION
Rice brings extensive experience from the UNC System Office, including roles as executive director for operations, academic and regulatory affairs, and interim chief of staff.
LaVelle Hayes
ASSOCIATE BUDGET DIRECTOR
Hayes, with over 15 years of financial leadership across two UNC System universities, offers strong expertise in budgeting, accounting and financial operations to strengthen NCCU’s planning capacity.
Donald Corbett
INTERIM DEAN, SCHOOL OF LAW
Professor Corbett, longtime law faculty member and associate dean, will serve as interim dean of the School of Law. He brings 20 years of commitment to students, faculty and NCCU’s mission.
Dr. Durell K. Hurst
DIRECTOR OF RESIDENTIAL LIFE
Hurst has more than 15 years of experience in residential life and student affairs in higher education.
Dr. Lucretia Banks
TITLE IX COORDINATOR
Banks most recently served as a Title IX resolution officer at the University of South Carolina, bringing important expertise in compliance, investigations and campus community support.
Dr. Jovany Felix
ASSOCIATE VICE CHANCELLOR AND CHIEF OF STAFF, STUDENT AFFAIRS
Felix returned to NCCU in Sept. 2025 and previously served ten years in the same role.
Seven New Members Named to the NCCU Board of Trustees
■ Courtney Crowder ’00 Managing director, APCO
■ Michael Goodman Executive vice president, Capitol Broadcasting Company
■ Farad Ali Co-founder, ALI | HEIJMEN
■ Francesca D. Gary Senior vice president, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina
■ Ryan Combs Executive director, Research Triangle Regional Partnership
■ Sha’Lexus Sanders ’26 2025-2026 president, NCCU Student Government Association
■ Dr. Orlando R. Stovall ’76 Owner, Stovall Dental
All appointments began July 1, 2025.
Returning members of the Board of Trustees includes:
■ David Alexander '94, '99
■ Roderick G. Allison '95
■ William V. Bell
■ G. Keith Chadwell
■ Lisa Martinez
■ Antwan Thornton '15
Lisa Martinez
Dr. Orlando R. Stovall
Ryan Combs
G. Keith Chadwell
Sha’Lexus Sanders
William V. Bell
Roderick G. Allison
David Alexander
Courtney Crowder Board Chair
Michael Goodman
Farad Ali Secretary
Francesca D. Gary Vice Chair
Antwan Thornton
100 YEARS:
NCCU IS FIRST PUBLIC, LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGE FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS
In 1925, the institution that is now North Carolina Central University (NCCU) became a public, liberal arts college. Then named North Carolina College for Negroes, it was the first state-supported liberal arts college for African Americans in the United States.
ANDRE VANN ’93, ’95, university archivist and instructor of public history sat down with NCCU Now magazine to offer his thoughts on the centennial.
NCCU NOW: Before it became a liberal arts college, what type of training did North Carolina College for Negroes offer?
VANN: Initially, founder Dr. James E. Shepard followed Booker T. Washington. Working with one’s hands. There was some science and some math but also basketmaking, weaving and upholstery. Early on, there was also training of teachers and preachers.
NCCU NOW: Were African American students in the 1920s prepared to attend college?
VANN: There were very few high schools that went up to 12th grade. Eighth grade was the top. North Carolina College for Negroes (also) offered courses up to the 12th grade as well as normal college for teaching certificates.
NCCU NOW: Was a hands-on curriculum the norm for African American colleges in the mid 1920s?
VANN: I think it was. Institutions created programs to serve people where they saw needs.
NCCU NOW: The Jim Crow laws were in effect in the 1920s. What impact did that have on African Americans who wanted a college education?
VANN: Those early years could be clearly defined by segregated schools in the state of North Carolina. Even Gov. Charles Aycock (governor from 1901 – 1905) believed in segregation and education at the same time. Many schools sprang up to meet those needs.
NCCU NOW: What factors led to the switch from hands-on training to liberal arts education?
VANN: Shepard borrowed from both Booker T. Washington and the great Dr. W.E.B. DuBois. They were both friends of his. In the end, liberal arts won out. Dr. Shepard saw education as a leveler. This institution was needed to meet the needs of modern-day citizenry.
NCCU NOW: What were some of the challenges?
VANN: No other state had invested in a liberal arts education for African Americans. Funding was an issue during the early decades. Also, inspiring a belief that an education could change and transform lives and communities.
NCCU NOW: What were the priorities of the state of North Carolina?
VANN: The majority mindset lingered around Booker T. Washington’s concept of vocational education. The state government, however, was aware of the challenge of African Americans seeking to attend majority white institutions. The government thought it would happen, but segregation of the races was paramount.
NCCU NOW: How did Shepard and others get around that?
VANN: A lot of people assumed that Dr. Shepard was an accommodationist. Dr. Shepard was more sophisticated than that. He knew diplomacy played an important role in getting what he needed. He had support in the Black community and the white community as well. They believed in his idea to elevate an institution to train future leaders.
“We had to have an educated group of faculty members to make sure the students were on the cutting edge of practices and ideas. Many of the faculty came from [Ivy League schools]. Faculty was recruited from Wellesley, Oberlin, Cornell, Columbia, Howard, Fisk and others.”
Andre Vann ’93, ’95, university archivist
NCCU NOW: How did Dr. Shepard develop that support?
VANN: Dr. Shepard understood the importance of lobbying. You would find him in trains, traveling, telling the needs and the story. You could find him in New York and Massachusetts. Modeling Durham not as utopia but as a separate space where African Americans could lift themselves up by the bootstraps. He built a narrative about this institution, that it was worthy of aid and respect.
NCCU NOW: What happened next?
VANN: The General Assembly offered financial support beginning in 1923 and ratified the purchase on Feb. 20, 1925. It became a
four-year college in 1925 with the first four-year class graduating in 1929.
NCCU NOW: What happened after the school became a public liberal arts institution?
VANN: We had to have an educated group of faculty members to make sure the students were on the cutting edge of practices and ideas. Many of the faculty came from [Ivy League schools] . Faculty was recruited from Wellesley, Oberlin, Cornell, Columbia, Howard, Fisk and others.
NCCU NOW: When did North Carolina College for Negroes award its first bachelor’s degrees?
VANN: In 1929. Fewer than 32 people graduated in that first class.
NCCU NOW: What were some of the courses offered after the school switched to liberal arts?
VANN: English, math, biology, history, Latin and French, physical education. Early on it had physics. More English courses. Always music. More and more courses around education. He would lobby for laboratories. He asked the legislature for $500,000 for labs. I can imagine what they said.
NCCU NOW: And it worked.
VANN: Dr. Shepard could see that others believed in his vision by sending their children there. He was able to show his dreams and ideas. The student population was growing.
NCCU NOW: Why was the switch from vocational courses to liberal arts important?
VANN: Dr. Shepard was trying to shake off these ideas about African Americans, that they were more in service and industry –such as being a domestic in people’s homes – rather than leadership. They had a role and place in American society. The better educated you are, the more places you get to occupy.
NCCU’s first four-year class graduated in 1929. Fewer than 32 people graduated in that first class.
150th
Birth
anniversary o f the of nccu founder. modern campus grows from one man’s vision.
BY ANDR É VANN ’93,
’95
Much of North Carolina Central University’s history is bound up in the biography of its founder, James E. Shepard.
On its opening day, July 5, 1910, the weather was unusually cool, with rain buffering the heat on the newest college campus in the United States. Shepard watched excitedly as the first drenched students arrived to attend the National Religious Training School and Chautauqua for the Colored Race.
As he watched, he may have reflected on the lessons he learned from his parents, the Rev. Augustus and Hattie Whitted Shepard. His father, Augustus Shepard, was born in 1846 to an enslaved couple once owned by a former North Carolina governor. He attended Shaw University and became a prominent minister, eventually serving as pastor of White
Rock Baptist Church in Durham. His mother, Hattie, was a graduate of Hampton Institute and among the earliest African American educators in North Carolina.
Their son James was born in Raleigh’s Oberlin community on Nov. 3, 1875—a mere 10 years after the close of the Civil War. He was the eldest of 12 siblings, part of the first generation of African Americans born after Emancipation.
The Shepard children learned to read and write in local public schools and were also taught by their mother. In 1890, Shepard entered Shaw University at age 15 to study pharmacy. Graduating in 1894, he carried with him Shaw’s motto, “For Christ and Humanity,” and embarked on a career of public service, as both a pharmacist and religious educator in Virginia and North Carolina.
In 1905, he began working with the International Sunday School Association, whose mission was to promote a standardized Christian education curriculum across denominational lines. Shepard traveled nationally and internationally as a field superintendent for the association and learning a variety of educational models.
He concluded that a complete education should address the mind, the body, and the soul, a philosophy that negotiated a path between the positions of W.E.B. Du Bois and Booker
T. Washington. He believed that industrial and academic educational approaches were both valid, but that neither was sufficient without religious education. He also felt that to educate the general population of African Americans, one must first educate the black clergy.
The National Religious Training School and Chautauqua for the Colored Race was chartered in 1909. Durham was considered an ideal site for the new school because it was a major center of economic, social, and political advancement for African Americans.
Philanthropist Brodie Leonidas Duke donated 20 of the initial 25 acres for the campus on Fayetteville Street, just one mile outside the city limits and within the black part of south Durham called Hayti. The offered site was sometimes referred to as “the trash heap,” deemed unworkable as a farm due to deep ravines. But supporters vowed to make it work.
Shepard had considered other sites, but the Durham Merchants Association, along with prominent African American businessmen, physicians, and educators, raised $25,000 to build the school in
Shepard’s wife, Annie Day Shepard, recorded some of the hardships the couple encountered en route to opening the school in 1910. Most notably was the decision by her husband to “sell their home and his interest in their drug store” to support the venture.
The mother of three remarked in an article: “I felt pretty bad about our home. But I couldn’t dream of not going along with him.”
Annie Day Shepard’s support for her husband’s work continued throughout their marriage, with Annie serving in various roles, including as matron of the dining room, a role she carried out without pay for six years.
Meanwhile, Shepard went well beyond the state borders to find support for the school. The 17 members of his initial
advisory board represented 10 states in both the North and South. Many early benefactors were people he had met through his work with the International Sunday School Association.
By 1909, Shepard had $7,000 in donations from friends and supporters in New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts and authorized construction to begin.
Several of the earliest buildings, including Avery Auditorium, the Dining Hall, Chidley Hall, Theology Hall, and the president’s new house, were designed by noted African American architect and designer William Sidney Pittman, who was the son-in-law of Booker T. Washington. Pittman also designed the original White Rock Baptist Church that opened in 1910 in the Hayti community.
Shepard’s vision always included training students in moral leadership, as well as academics. Not only were the school’s graduates expected to better the condition of their race, but they were also to be model citizens representing the virtues of a democratic nation.
By 1912, 10 buildings on the new campus had been erected. The student body was around 140. Shepard resolved that costs to students would be kept to a minimum. A notation regarding pre-1915 pricing listed six weeks of courses at $10 for tuition and fees and $3.50 for room and board.
Early course offerings included music, commerce, religion, English, French, German, Greek, mathematics, geography, philosophy, ethics, agriculture, domestic science, basketry, dressmaking, millinery, physical education and history.
In a 1910 catalog, students were encouraged to maintain a strict standard and code of conduct that included the following stipulations: “All profanity, obscene language, games of chance and pool playing are strictly forbidden. Use of intoxicating liquor or tobacco in any form is forbidden. Leaving the grounds without permission or remaining in the city beyond time limits is forbidden. Absence, without excuse, from recitation or other regular school appointments is forbidden.”
In 1923, the North Carolina legislature was so impressed with the work going on under Shepard that it provided $20,639 in state funding. At that point, the National Training School became Durham State Normal (Teachers) School.
In 1925, upon hearing that state leaders were seeking to establish a higher education liberal arts curriculum for African Americans, Shepard and his chief lobbyist, Charles C. Amey, campaigned for selection of the Durham campus.
During this same period, two fires at the school on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29, 1925 destroyed the administrative
From 1901 to 1911, the Rev. Augustus Shepard served as pastor at White Rock –less than a mile up Fayetteville Street from where his son, Dr. James E. Shepard, was establishing the educational institution that would one day become NCCU.
building, a men’s dormitory, and the dining/classroom hall. Despite the damage, Durham State Normal School became the North Carolina College for Negroes that year. It was the first state-supported liberal arts college for African Americans in the United States.
Shepard’s vision always included training students in moral leadership, as well as academics. Not only were the school’s graduates expected to better the condition of their race, but they were also to be model citizens representing the virtues of a democratic nation.
Shepard cultivated many relationships near and far to further his goals, including that of the Rev. Howard James Chidley (1878–1966), a financial supporter who served as chairman of the Board of Trustees from 1916 to 1921.
Chidley’s church, the First Congregational Church in Winchester, Mass., provided clothes, linens, food and operating costs in the early years. After state support began, the church’s donations were ear-
marked for scholarships, with more than $60,000 collected during the first 50 years. Chidley spoke often to the student body in Durham and allowed Shepard to preach in his Massachusetts pulpit, often sharing news about the ongoing work and needs of the college. The former all-male Chidley Hall was dedicated in 1952 and was the only structure on campus named in honor of a non-resident of North Carolina.
By 1947, the year of Shepard’s death, the school had been accredited by the Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools for Negroes and the American Council on Education. It was then one of only four African American members of the Association of American Colleges. During his later years, Shepard was often asked to consent to the casting of a bust that could be displayed on campus.
Instead, he would guide visitors to a window overlooking the campus and with a sweeping gesture, say: “This is my monument. If I am not remembered for this, I will be remembered for nothing.”
(Pictured far left) Dr. Alfonso Elder and Dr. James E. Shepard is shown conversing with Miss Nannie Helen Burroughs and Mrs. Catherine Ruth Edwards.
(Pictured left): Dr. James E. Shepard, faculty and businessmen at a luncheon held in his honor at White Rock Baptist Church.
NCCU GRADUATES HEAR ”THE WORLD NEEDS YOU”
BY MARK LAWTON
Three commencement speakers at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) spoke of their concern for the present and actions for the future they would like the 1,011 graduates to take.
Leonardo “Leo” Williams ’05, ’15, mayor of Durham, who spoke during the baccalaureate ceremony for the College of Health and Sciences and the School of Education, said it’s time for something in addition to the job, church on Sundays and returning to campus for homecoming.
“Let me be clear,” Williams said. “The traditional expectation, that’s not our lane. The world out there is a battlefield.”
Williams made three recommendations.
The first is to stand up.
“While some of you are chasing clout on social media, there is a whole system in place trying to dismantle the rights of our ancestors and what they bled for,” Williams said. “Who is the calvary? You are.”
The second is to stand out. “You are the class that is going to redefine this nation,” he said.
LEONARDO WILLIAMS
REGINALD McCRIMMON
ERNIE SUGGS
“You are going to tap into the power within you.”
Third, to stand on business.
“It is really about creating wealth,” Williams said. “How do we spend and invest in one another?”
During the graduate and professional ceremony, Ernie Suggs ’90, a senior reporter at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution offered a similar message.
“We are at a crossroads in this country,” Suggs said. “Truth is under siege. Reality is being rewritten. Your very existence as a free-thinking people is revolutionary. There is no better place to forge that revolution than at NCCU. The world needs your voice and your truth.”
Suggs advised graduates to “fight with knowledge, critical thinking, compassion and presence. You tell the truth even when the truth shakes the room.”
Reggie McCrimmon, ’13, a senior vice president of Crossroads Strategies in Washington D.C., who spoke during the baccalaureate ceremony for the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities and the School of Business, echoed some of those sentiments.
“We find ourselves in concerning times,” McCrimmon said, listing rising costs, student loans becoming due, age of homebuyers increasing, fewer government jobs, etc.
“Where purpose takes flight is fitting for our times,” he said. “Purpose speaks to who we are at our core and what we are called to do.”
While facing their future, McCrimmon suggested that graduates bring along grit and grace.
“True leadership is forged in resilience,” McCrimmon said. “(Make sure to) love ourselves, to be patient with ourselves and be kind to ourselves.”
In her closing remarks, Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon described commencement as more than a celebration.
“It is a call to purpose,” she said. “You are stepping into the world as scholars, leaders and changemakers – and the world needs you.”
“You are stepping into the world as scholars, leaders and changemakers – and the world needs you.”
— CHANCELLOR KARRIE G. DIXON
Where purpose takes flight is fitting for our times. Purpose speaks to who we are at our core and what we are called to do.”
REGINALD M c CRIMMON Commencement Speaker
538
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES
1
DOCTORAL DEGREE
130
JURIS DOCTORATE DEGREES
342
MASTER’S DEGREES
1,011
TOTAL GRADUATES
HIGHLIGHTS
MILLION.
Collectively, undergraduates engaged in 30,967 hours of community service, valued at $1.03
During the three commencement ceremonies, five faculty were recognized with the NCCU Award for Excellence in Teaching. They are:
Jinhong Jung, Ph.D., professor of kinesiology and recreation; Michael Pearce, MFA, assistant professor of mass communications; Pia Duncan Anderson, Ed.D., clinical assistant professor of criminal justice; Penny Carroll, MSW, professor and clinical lecturer of social work and Tryan McMickens, Ed.D., associate professor of counseling and higher education.
Antonio Baines, Ph.D., a cancer pharmacologist/ toxicologist and associate professor in the department of biological and biomedical sciences, was honored with the University of North Carolina Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Among the graduates were eight RN to BSN (registered nurse to bachelor’s in nursing) who earned their degree with the assistance of Project Kitty Hawk, an initiative that helps NCCU better serve adult online learners.
Amr Waly earned a doctorate in integrated biosciences. As a student, he conducted research in various fields including health disparities and cancer biology.
Of the 1,011 spring 2025 graduates, 130 earned Juris Doctor (law) degrees, 342 earned master’s degrees and 538 earned bachelor’s degrees.
Collectively, undergraduates engaged in 30,967 hours of community service, valued at $1.03 million.
The majority – 834 – of graduates are from North Carolina although graduates from another 27 states, the District of Columbia and two countries – Finland and Spain – received their diplomas on May 9 and 10.
Undergraduate students with the highest grade point averages during spring term were Kawanda Hall, Kimberly McNeil and Emmie Modlin.
Recipients of the NCCU Student Impact Award - recognizing graduating seniors who have fulfilled a minimum of 250 hours of community-engaged service - are:
Aliya Alston, Jordan Baccus, Kaleyah Hilton, Kamya Jackson, Kimberly Johnson, Nicole Anne Martin, Anaja McArthur, Ezeji Nwanaji-Enwerem, Conny Requino-Alfaro, Makayla Russ, Saiyana Siner, Jada Sorrell, Kamakshi Velamuri, Ty’nasia Walker, Laura Whitley and Sydney Wilkins.
NCCU Students DASSH to Assist Homeland Security
BY MARK LAWTON
OR MUCH OF THE WEEKEND OF FEB. 28 – MARCH 2
, Patrick Jacobs was developing a speech-to-text program that could assist the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
“DHS, they have a mountain of paperwork,” said Jacobs, a graduate student in mathematics at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). “If individual service members could speak instead of typing everything out, that would be pretty convenient.”
Jacobs and nine other students competed in the Designing Actionable Solutions for a Secure Homeland (DASSH) Student Design Challenge with 160 students from 15 universities. The students were divided into 37 teams – that competed online – with NCCU students divided into two teams.
Each team had a different problem. The team of Azaria Shabaz, who attended NCCU during her freshman year, worked on a plan to mitigate AI-enabled attacks on critical infrastructure.
“We came to the conclusion that there is no way to stop terrorism,” Shabaz said. Instead, her team devised a form of artificial intelligence (AI) that searches for suspicious key words or phrases and variations, such as ‘how do I build a bomb?’
After developing a solution, each team had to create a five-minute video explaining their solution to judges who included DHS professionals, academics and security experts.
“It needs to be something actionable,” said Patrick Flanigan, a postdoctoral researcher in the NCCU Centers of Research Excellence in
Science and Technology. Flanigan arranged for NCCU to compete in DASSH.
“You have a really short amount of time,” Flanigan said. “All told, its less than two days of actual work time and you are competing against students who are veterans of this competition.”
Jacobs spent about 16 hours to build an application. “I am still recovering from being sleep deprived,” Shabaz said several days after the competition.
While challenging, Flanigan said the competition helps build skills like coding and AI, along with soft skills.
“Teamwork, working under harsh deadlines, problem solving,” Flanigan said.
“How do you impress the judges? Do you shoot for a more difficult solution that is harder to implement and more likely to fail? Or a less difficult solution that might not be as impressive, Flanigan said?”
This is NCCU’s first time competing in DASSH, although Flanigan hopes to see the university compete again.
The students were divided into 37 teams that competed online, with NCCU students divided
into two teams.
NEWS I EVENTS I IN MEMORIAM
TELL US YOUR STORY
à Did you land a new job, receive a promotion or earn a degree or professional award? These are accomplishments we want to announce. Email now@nccu.edu with a 300 dpi photo and include your graduation year, college and major.
I ’78 I MICHAEL W. PUTNEY SR. retired after 46 years working in education, 36 of those years as an administrator.
I ’85 I TERESA HARPER VINCENT, will serve as chair of the Legal Support Center advisory board of Guilford County, North Carolina.
I 92, ’88 I The Morehead Manor Bed and Breakfast in Durham, NC, was named a top 10 bed and breakfast by USA Today. It is owned by MONICA EDWARDS '92 and DANIEL EDWARDS '88
I ’95 I ERIC BRACY, was hired in May as the new superintendent for Cumberland County Schools in North Carolina.
’96 I LEVELLE MOTON, NCCU Head Men’s Basketball Coach, received “The Order of the Long Leaf Pine,” the highest honor given by the Governor of North Carolina, recognizing his outstanding service, leadership and impact on our state.
I ’97 I Gov. Josh Stein appointed EULA REID as Superior Court Judge in North Carolina's Judicial District 1.
I ’98 I TIMOTHY JOHNSON was named the President and CEO of the Greater Clark Foundation in Winchester, KY.
THOMAS
PUTNEY SR.
BRACY
LAWRENCE
MOSS
DAY GRADY
REID
à
ALUMNI RELATIONS
Alumni Relations serves to develop, coordinate and foster programs to keep you informed and involved with NCCU. For information, call 919-530-6363, emailalumni@nccu.edu or visit nccu.edu/alumni
I ’05, ’09 I CARNETTA THOMAS, principal at EM Rollins STEAM Academy, was recognized as the Principal of the Year by Vance County Schools for the 2025-26 school year.
I ’92 I The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) announced ANDREW MOSS as the Deputy Comptroller for Community and Industry Relations.
I ’05 I STEVEN HARRISON, ED.D., had his children’s book “November 10” published in August. The book is about the Wilmington massacre and Coup d-Etat of 1898.
I ’08 I DR. NAJJA K. BAPTIST was appointed the Sylvia G. Swartz Endowed Chair in Political Science at the University of Arkansas.
I ’08 I Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) has announced the appointment of STEVIE L. LAWRENCE II as its next provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs.
NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
à For news, information and or to join a local alumni chapter, visit nccualumni.org or email info@nccualumni.org or call 919-530-5222.
I ’09 I WNYC/Gothamist has announced that GABRIELLE JONES will join its newsroom as Director of Digital News and Audience.
I ’09 I Gov. Josh Stein appointed SIOBAHN DAY GRADY, PH.D., a member of the AI Leadership Council of North Carolina.
I ’13 I PATRICK JONES was named Director of Bands at Durham’s Hillside High School.
I ’21 I MESHA LEVISTER is the new director of golf at North Carolina A&T State University.
I ’22 I MARIO BENAVENTE is running for mayor of Fayetteville, North Carolina.
I ’22 I DERRICK STANFIELD, former Student Government Association President, entered Harvard Law School.
I ’23 I The NCCU Division of Institutional Advancement proudly announces JOSIAH RUSSELL as the new Associate Director of Annual Giving.
SHARE YOUR MILESTONE
Share photos of your milestones— such as weddings, births, legacy announcements, reunions with classmates — or memories from your days on campus for potential publication online, on social media and/or in our magazine. Photos must be digital and 300 dpi or higher and can be submitted by emailing to now@nccu.edu.
JONES
RUSSELL
MOTON
LEVISTER
JONES
NCCU: A Family Legacy
BY MICHAEL A. BAILEY ’97
OR NEARLY THREE DECADES, I have dedicated my professional life to recruiting future Eagles to North Carolina Central University (NCCU) as the executive director of Undergraduate Admissions.
This fall, however, my most meaningful recruitment effort is the moment my own family joins and continues the NCCU legacy.
Beginning with the Fall 2025 class, four members of my family are enrolled at NCCU to pursue their educational dreams. My sister, Tashia (Bailey) McPhaul, is returning to complete her degree. My niece Juliana Bailey, my nephew Evan Bailey and my daughter Jayden Bailey are all beginning their journeys as students.
Watching my sister Tashia balance career and family responsibilities while returning to finish her degree has been inspiring. She often reminds me, “It’s never too late to finish what you started.”
For my niece Juliana, nephew Evan, and daughter Jayden, the decision to become Eagles was shaped by both our family’s deep ties and NCCU’s powerful reputation for cultivating leaders.
Juliana told me how excited she is to finally step onto the sloping hills and verdant green she has heard about all her life from her cousins, David Hager ’00, and the late Darren Hager ’14.
Evan and Juliana have also been shaped by the incredible example of their parents. My sister-in-law, Dr. Angela (Hager) Bailey, a proud Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) graduate, is now a practicing medical doctor. Their father, Frank Bailey, an NC State University
graduate, has established himself as an entrepreneur and business philanthropist. Their successes reflect both the power of HBCU excellence and the spirit of innovation and service that we work to instill in every Eagle.
And then there is my daughter, Jayden. She shared with me, “I’ve watched my father dedicate his life to helping other students find their path here. Now I get to walk that path myself and continue our family’s Eagle legacy.”
Her words capture what legacy truly means: the blending of tradition, excellence and purpose across generations. And as I celebrate this milestone, I want to extend a challenge to all Eagle families.
Join me in ensuring that our legacy of excellence continues:
■ VOLUNTEER with the Honorable Eagle Alumni Recruitment Team (HEART) to represent NCCU at high school visits and college fairs.
■ MENTOR current Eagles by sharing your professional experience and guidance.
■ HOST admitted student receptions or welcome events in your communities.
■ ENCOURAGE your own family members, friends and church/community. networks to visit and apply to NCCU
■ INVEST in the next generation of Eagles financially through scholarships, gifts or contributions to strengthen admissions and recruitment efforts.
Together, we can show the world that Eagle Pride, Family First and Legacy Forever are more than words; they are a way of life.
I’ve watched my father dedicate his life to helping other students find their path here. Now I get to walk that path myself and continue our family’s Eagle legacy.”
JAYDEN BAILEY '29
Daughter of Michael A. Bailey, executive director, undergraduate admissions (Pictured
left to right–Frank Bailey, Angela Bailey, Juliana Bailey ’29, Evan Bailey ’28, Tonja (McCormick) Bailey ’96, Jayden Bailey ’29 and Michael A. Bailey ’97.)
The North Carolina Central University Office of Alumni Relations has selected its 2025 Forty Under Forty class, who were honored on September 12. Selected by a panel comprised of alumni, university officials and industry leaders, the honorees— each under 40—have demonstrated leadership and innovation in fields such as entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, law, social justice, sciences, mass communication and public service.
THE 2025 HONOREES: FORTY UNDER FORTY
LATORIUS ADAMS, ‘10
Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Health Education
Social/clinical research specialist, UNC School of Medicine
INDIA ALI, ‘13
Decatur, Georgia
Juris Doctorate
Master of Business Administration
Attorney/owner, self-employed, The Law Office of India Y. Ali
ARTHUR ANDERSON JR., ‘17, ‘18
Raleigh, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science, Criminal Justice
Master of Science, Criminal Justice
Program Manager, City of Durham Office of Economic and Workforce Development
ALICIA ANDREWS, ‘07
Ayden, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education
Director of education and outreach/project coordinator, Duke University-Center for Health Policy and Inequalities Research
AMBER BANKS, ‘07
Durham, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration
President, African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs; Board chair, Reinvestment Partners
LAKEVIOUS BATTLE, ‘19
Knightdale, North Carolina
Master of Science in Management Information Systems
Sr. Cloud & AI Solutions Architect, Microsoft; CTO, Sherpa Clouds Inc.
KIERRA BONNER, ‘20
Sanford, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Behavioral and Social Sciences
CEO/ Founder, Life of the Party Bus, Houston, Texas
DIONNE BOWICK, ‘08
Durham, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Administration Director, owner and operator, Growing Legacy Early Learning Center
PHILLIP BOYD JR., ‘16
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences
Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) educator; Impact leader, North Carolina with Profound Gentlemen
RACHEAL BROOKS ‘06
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Director of Quality Assurance Implementation Solutions, Quality Matters
TARNOSHA BURNS, ‘09
Tar Heel, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Physical Education Certification specialist, Department of Administration, North Carolina Office of Historically Underutilized Business
OMARI COLLINS, ‘16
Charlotte, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in English
Creative developer of 4th & 1 with Cam Newton; Head of brand development, NJC Ventures; Head of brand development / executive director and co-Host, Iconic Saga
CHRISTIN COTTEN, ‘11
Clayton, North Carolina
Master of Business Administration Juris Doctor
Assistant staff judge advocate; Founder, Lucy Regent Legal, LLC; Founder and managing attorney; Owner of America's Choice Transport LLC
OMARI CRAWFORD, ‘13
Decatur, Georgia
Juris Doctor
Master of Business Administration
Attorney at law, Williams Teusink LLC
ASIA CUNNINGHAM, ‘07, ‘09, ‘17
Warsaw, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Licensure/Elementary Education
Master of Science in School Administration
Principal, Durham Public Schools
HADASSAH ELEY, ‘09
Raleigh, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science
CEO, CME Strategies; CEO, Eminent Opulent Realty
CIJI GARNER, ‘14, '24
Morrisville, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Executive Master of Public Administration
Strategic initiatives analyst, Durham County Government
TRACY WRIGHT GASKINS, ‘17
Durham, North Carolina
Master of Business Administration
Juris Doctor
Principal corporate counsel, Cisco Systems Inc.
DEVIN GRAHAM, ‘06
Raleigh, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Senior clinical research associate III, ICON
CORDARA HARPER, ‘17
Cove City, North Carolina
Bachelor of Music in Music Education Assistant professor of music education and director of choral activities, Grambling State University
SIERRA HOBBS, ‘10
Long Beach, California
Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training Assistant athletic director for sports medicine/Head athletic trainer, NCCU
TREMAIN HOLLOWAY, ‘11
Rocky Mount, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Doctoral resident in the superintendent’s office, Boston Public Schools
UYI IDAHOR, ‘12, ‘15
High Point, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Master of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences Engagement manager, Tricentis Software Company
DOLLORESS JOHNSON, '07, '09
Dallas, Texas
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Master of Public Administration
Executive director of human resources, Arlington Independent School District
IMANI JOHNSON, ‘21
Atlanta, Georgia
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Public information communications analyst, City of Durham
RODNEY JOHNSON JR., ‘16
Jacksonville, North Carolina
Bachelor of Business Administration Educator and mentor, Onslow County Schools
JOHNNY JONES II, ‘13
Charlotte, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Biology
Co-founder and CEO; Precision Research and Development Solutions Senior clinical research associate, IQVIA
TANGELA KENAN, ‘10
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Co-founder, chief executive officer, 5K Foundation Inc.
REGGIE McCRIMMON, ‘13
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Senior vice president, Crossroads Strategies
ANNGELICA MOHABIR WILSON, ‘13
Brooklyn, New York
Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication
Interior architectural designer, Determined by Design®, Design Equity Interior Designer
GREGORY PATE, ‘08, ‘12
Richmond County, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Vice president, Amethyst Counseling Services
MICHAEL ROBINSON, ‘14, ‘17
Butner, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science, Criminal Justice
Master of Science, Public Administration
Assistant athletic director for ticket operations, NCCU
LANCE SCOTT JR., ‘17
Durham, North Carolina
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies
Producer, songwriter, composer and educator
MARCUS SHIELDS, ‘11
Sumter, South Carolina
Juris Doctor
Owner/managing attorney, Shields Law PLLC
GABRIELLE SIMMONS SCOTT, ‘11, ‘21
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Master of Public Administration
Durham County organizer, NC Black Alliance and Advance Carolina
RYAN STOWE, '13, '16
Salisbury, North Carolina
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Bachelor of Arts in History
Juris Doctor
Managing attorney, Stowe Law Firm
AMONDRE SMITH, ‘15
Roanoke, Virginia
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education Chiropractic physician
MEGHAN WILDER, ‘10, ‘20
Newburgh, New York
Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education
Master of School Administration
Beginning teacher mentor, Durham Public Schools
KENT WILLIAMS JR., ‘09, ‘13
Raleigh, North Carolina
Master of Arts in Career Counseling and Placement
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Assistant director for student leadership, NCCU
TAMEKA WILLIAMS, ‘06, ‘11
Lumberton, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
Director of staff development and curiosity, Justice System Partners
Members of the NCCU Board of Trustees and Chancellor Dixon enjoyed an evening with the Forty Under Forty Class.
IT'S HOMECOMING
Since 1931, Homecoming brings us back to the Yard we love. From hanging out with old friends to meeting new acquaintances, reliving traditions and making new memories at all the best spots to celebrate Homecoming day.
HOMECOMING 1931 - 2024
NCCU’s first recorded Homecoming football game was played on Nov. 14, 1931, against Morgan State. Since then, Homecoming has become a centerpiece of Eagle tradition, showcasing rivalries and milestones in program history.
STATS:
■ Games Played:104
■ Wins 66 / Losses 36 / Ties 2
■ Most Played Opponent: Johnson C. Smith (21 times)
■ Largest Wins: 55–0 vs. Shaw, 1950 and vs. Bowie State (55–0), 1985
■ Largest Loss: 0–47 (vs. Morgan State, 1933)
Gaps in Homecoming Games:
■ 1934-1936: The Depression
■ 1943-1944: World War II
■ 2020: Covid-19 Pandemic
O'KELLY-RIDDICK STADIUM
The stadium opened in 1975 and holds 10,000 people. The O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium was named in honor of two university administrators, Cadd G. O'Kelly and Herman H. Riddick.
Homecoming Game
JAMES E. SHEPARD STATUE
This Homecoming, we honor the 150th anniversary of our founder, Dr. James E. Shepard, whose vision gave flight to generations of Eagles. Students, alumni and friends gather at his statue to reflect, give thanks and celebrate his enduring legacy. It’s a powerful reminder that every step we take on the yard is rooted in his vision.
DARE TO CONQUER the JESUS STEPS
They’re steep, they’re legendary and they’ve tested every Eagle’s faith and stamina. At Homecoming, relive the climb (or the careful descent) where every step felt like a prayer to make it to class, the café or just flat ground! The Jesus Steps aren’t just stairs—they’re a rite of passage, a memory that unites us all.
OUR TAILGATE is UNDEFEATED
From the moment you step on campus, the air is thick with the irresistible aromas of chicken sizzling, BBQ smoking low and slow, hamburgers flipping on the grill, and fish crackling in the fryer. Laughter, music and fun spill from every tent, food truck and RV. At NCCU, the tailgate isn’t just about food—it’s a feast of community, tradition and joy that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
LET the GAME BEGIN
All week long, the campus has been buzzing with Eagle Pride— parades, parties and plenty of unforgettable memories. Now it all leads to the big showdown on the field versus Delaware State. Come cheer on the team and don't forget the electrifying halftime show featuring our legendary Sound Machine Marching Band!
VIBING IN THE BOWL
When the game ends, the party begins in the Library Bowl—where students and alumni come together to sway and celebrate with the DJ. This year, the vibes wrap up a little earlier at 6:30 p.m., so bring your energy and enjoy every beat until the last song drops! BYE! IT
WAS FUN!
Campus closes at 7 p.m. Time to leave by shuttle, Uber or by foot! Now is a great time to catch up with friends at the after parties, downtown Durham eateries or a kick back at the crib. Stay safe Eagles and we will see you next year.
’68 | DR. JOHN H. LUCAS SR., a highly respected educator, mentor and community leader in Durham, North Carolina, passed away on March 31, 2025, at the age of 104. Lucas is best remembered for his decades of service as principal of Hillside High School, where his leadership, discipline and vision helped shape the lives of countless students.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lucas’s legacy is also reflected through his family. He was the proud father of John Lucas II, who went on to a distinguished career in the NBA as both a player and coach.
With a life spanning more than a century, Lucas witnessed extraordinary change and progress, yet his devotion to education and his community never wavered. He will be remembered with gratitude, admiration and respect.
’52 | KENNETH HENLEY CHAMBERS, born November 15, 1930, passed November 23, 2024, in Charlotte, NC. He devoted his life to medicine and service. A proud graduate of North Carolina Central University, he earned his medical degree from Meharry Medical College, the South’s first African American medical school. After interning at Hubbard Hospital and completing his residency at Harlem Hospital, he became one of Charlotte’s first African American specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Practicing for more than four decades until his retirement in 2003, Dr. Chambers delivered countless children and broke racial barriers in medicine. His legacy endures as a healer, pioneer, and trailblazer.
’45 | ELLA P. PROCTOR, 100, Macon, GA, Feb. 28, 2025
’74 | STANLEY BENNETT SPRAGUE, 85, Greensboro, NC, May 20, 2025
’75 | SADIE MARIE WEBB, 70, Oxford, NC, July 28, 2024
’76 | JANET MARIA PARHAMS, 70, Durham, NC, June 10, 2025
’76 | REGINA HORNE ESPREE, 70, Fayetteville, NC, June 29, 2025
’76, ’78 | TERESA ELLEN COVINGTON, 70, Chesapeake VA, April 29, 2025
’77 | THOMAS EDWARDS KEE
JR., 69, Raleigh, NC, April 21, 2025
’78 | ALVIE C. FENNELL SR., 69, Bethlehem, PA, Aug. 29, 2025
’78 | MARY LORRAINE
LASTER OKWARO, 68, Durham, NC, Sept. 27, 2024
’79 | JOYCE ANN McCAIN
THORPE, 71, Chapel Hill, NC, April 20, 2025
’79 | STANLEY R. SETTLES, 69 Chattanooga, TN on Nov. 21, 2024
’63, ’67 | EUGENE PETTIS, 85, Charlotte, NC, Aug. 16, 2025. A proud double eagle, Pettis earned business degrees from NCCU and was a lifelong member of Kappa Alpha Psi. He led at HBCUs before founding Pettis Realty. A devoted community servant, he was active with NAACP, Masons and North Carolina Board of Realtors. Eugene Pettis
’81 | MICHELE LYNN MOORE GREEN, 65, Greensboro, NC, July 19, 2024
’81 | PRISCILLA ANN OVERTON GOOCH, 65, Sanford NC, June 13, 2025
’83 | BARBARA LOU TICKLE WHITE, 93, Yadkinville, NC, May 26, 2025
’83 | LOUIS DARREN McLVER, 64, Jacksonville, NC, Dec. 31, 2024
’90 | FRIEDA WHITLEY, 90, Durham, NC, Aug. 29, 2024
’96 | NIKKI WOMBUI' YELVERTON, 50, New York, NY, Aug. 15, 2025
’17 | CLARENCE WILLIAM BRANCH III, 53, Durham, NC, July 15, 2024
’22 | JEFFREY LEE EADDY, 45, Durham, NC, July 19, 2024
’14 | JIMMY ALLEN WOODS, age 34, passed away on Sept. 9, 2025. Woods was actively engaged in theatre from a young age performing in Sunday school plays and school musicals. Woods continued pursuing his passion at North Carolina Central University and graduated in the spring of 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre.
Nikki Yelverton Alvie C. Fennell Sr. Jeffrey Lee Eaddy
NCCU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
Leadership
The North North Carolina Central University Alumni Association, Inc. (NCCUAA) announced new leadership, which went in effect June 18, 2025.
Nikki Davis-Green ’98 has assumed the role of NCCUAA President for the remainder of the current term. Dr. Darwin “Van” Mills ’91 has been appointed NCCUAA Vice President to fulfill the vacancy created by Davis-Green’s transition to President.
Congratulations to our NCCU Alumni Association 2025-2026 Scholarship Recipients
ROGER R. GREGORY SCHOLARS
Camille Leak
Ura L. McAllister
Kamara J. King-Cummings
Dylan Tidmore
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION SCHOLARS
Jade R. Brown
Kaelin O. Cadlett
Andreya K. Williams Daugherty
Carl A. Dean
Makayla F. Grice
Janea N. Hudson
M. Kennedy Lightfoot
Kennedi J.N. Marks
Charleston G. Rabb
Vivienne D. Steele
Zuri S. Taitt
Nahlia N. Tindal
Justin C. Williams
Thomas E. Yarborough Jr.
Georgia E. Harden
ALUMNI WEEKEND 2025 RECAP
June 27–29 | Durham, NC
The hills were alive with Pride as alumni returned to “Dear ole’ NCC” for a weekend filled with fellowship, reflection and celebration.
From our Day of Service and Fish Fry to the Farewell Brunch, the Eagle Pride was Amplified! Thank you to all who joined us in Durham as we celebrated 100 years of the Alumni Association!
HONORING EXCELLENCE:
CENTENNIAL ALUMNI AWARDS BANQUET
The crown jewel of the weekend was the Annual Alumni Awards Banquet, held Saturday, June 28, in the NCCU New Student Center.
Davis-Green
Mills
Congratulations to our 2025 Founder’s Award Winner (Lifetime Achievement): JACQUE BEATTY-SMITH ’79
Alumna Beatty-Smith was honored with the highest recognition bestowed by the Association for her tireless service, passionate advocacy and unwavering commitment to NCCU students and Alumni for decades. She is a shining example of Eagle Excellence!
Other Award Recipients included:
RECENT GRADUATE AWARD:
ALEXIS COFIELD ’18, Metro DC Chapter
TRUTH AND SERVICE AWARD:
SONYA SCOTT ’91, ’00, ’08 Durham Chapter
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI:
TURQUOISE L. PARKER ’10, ’23, Durham Chapter
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR:
JU'WANN JONES ’06, Metro DC Chapter
ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR:
KELLI DAVIS ’02, Raleigh Wake Chapter
CHAPTER OF THE YEAR
RALEIGH-WAKE ALUMNI CHAPTER
Beatty-Smith
Cofield
Scott
Parker
Jones
Raleigh-Wake Alumni Chapter Davis
WHEN NORTH CAROLINA NEEDED CARE. NCCU DELIVERED
After Hurricane Helene and devastating floods swept through western North Carolina, communities were left without access to basic health care.
NCCU STEPPED FORWARD.
Our mobile health clinics and dedicated faculty, nurses and public health teams provided urgent medical care, essential supplies and critical support – reaching people where they were, when they needed it most.
This is more than disaster response. It’s how we prepare the next generation of scientists, nurses and researchers to serve their state with skill and compassion.
At NCCU, this is where purpose takes flight – in the lives we touch, the communities we heal and the future we’re building together.
See how NCCU’s science and health programs equip the people who will strengthen every corner of our state.
NCCU.EDU / CHAS
THE POWER OF TWO: THE ROBINSONS' GIFT OF INNOVATION
BY SYRIA GILMORE ’21
AT THE HEART OF EVERY GREAT UNIVERSITY
are people willing to invest in its future. For Shelron Wilson Robinson, ’84, and Gerald Robinson, that meant making their most significant contribution yet. Their $500,000 pledge will fund the Shelron Wilson Robinson and Gerald Robinson Innovation Lab.
Housed inside the School of Business building, the Innovation Lab will give students the chance to consult with actual clients, explore data-driven solutions, connect with corporate mentors and serve the Durham community through targeted entrepreneurship projects. It will also help prepare them for competitive internships and careers in business analytics, consulting and entrepreneurship.
“We want students to have a place where they are supported, where their successes are celebrated and where setbacks become learning opportunities,” Gerald said.
For Shelron, the seed for this gift was planted during her return to campus for the School of Business ribbon cutting.
“Not every student has the chance to do an internship,” she says. “The Innovation Lab gives them a place to cre-
ate, experiment and build something tangible for their résumé—right here on campus.”
The Robinsons had already endowed a scholarship for business students.
THE PATH THAT LED THEM HERE
A Lexington, North Carolina native, Shelron Wilson Robinson first visited campus for a football game and instantly
felt the energy and community spirit. That visit convinced her to enroll, and she went on to earn a degree in business administration with concentrations in marketing and finance. Influential professors such as Dr. Marcus Ingram and mentors like Dr. Lindsey Merritt connected her with opportunities and guided her toward a successful career.
Gerald, originally from Norfolk, Virginia, graduated from McMurry College in Illinois with a degree in business administration and a focus in economics.
He recognized in NCCU the same close-knit, student-first environment he valued in his own alma mater—a connection that would later inspire him to stand beside Shelron in her philanthropic goals.
The couple met while working at Aetna Life and Casualty. Gerald discovered his passion for technology through an unexpected side project setting up computers and networks— an experience that launched him into a 28-year career at Microsoft, leading global teams and managing large-scale initiatives across continents.
Shelron built her career in finance, education and eventually entrepreneurship, a leap she took with Gerald’s full encouragement.
The Robinsons credit their faith as the cornerstone of both their marriage and their philanthropy.
“Without faith, you won’t have the confidence to succeed,” Gerald says. “When you couple that with the blessings we’ve received, it’s impossible for us not to pay it forward.”
PAYING IT FORWARD: THE McMILLANS’ GIFT TO FUTURE EAGLES
BY SYRIA GILMORE ’21
HROUGH THE ASKEW McMILLAN
Family Endowment Fund, Montresa and Donald McMillan, ‘93 are investing in a future where NCCU students have the resources to finish what they started.
They named the endowment in honor of Donald’s late parents, who instilled in him the values of education, faith and community service. The fund is designed to provide lasting financial support for NCCU students, particularly those from the small, rural communities.
“We believe every child deserves an education,” Montresa says. “If we can remove even one financial barrier for a student, then we’ve done something meaningful.”
Donald hails from Shannon, North Carolina, where he grew up on a farm surrounded by cows, chickens and fields of produce. His father and brothers worked in a sawmill, while his mother and several of his sisters were employed at Converse. His earliest lessons came from hard work — tending animals, building wooden pallets and saving bottles for spare change. After starting college at NC State
University, he transferred to NCCU, graduating in 1993 with a degree in computer science. His professional journey has ranged from technology and financial services to co-founding and leading multiple behavioral health companies across North Carolina.
“I’ve never been afraid to try something new,” Donald says. “If it doesn’t work, I see it as a lesson, not a failure.”
Montresa was raised in Windsor, North Carolina, located in Bertie County, where her father worked in the school system and her mother in the clerk of court’s office. Summers spent working on her grandfather’s farm taught her that she wanted a different kind of future — one that education could provide. A late acceptance to NC State put her on a path to mathematics, and later, executive studies at MIT. Over time, she built a career in the banking industry, leading technology and innovation initiatives.
“I’ve never been comfortable with the status quo,” Montresa says. “If I’m given responsibility for something, I want to leave it better than I found it.”
The McMillans credit their shared values and complementary strengths for making them a powerful team in life, business and philanthropy. Donald brings the momentum, the push to move quickly and the willingness to try unconventional approaches. Montresa provides the structure, the measured decision-making, and the discipline to ensure ideas are not only launched but sustained.
For the McMillans, giving to NCCU is about more than personal pride in the university — it’s about investing in the next generation. They know firsthand how critical financial support can be for students, especially those from underserved backgrounds.
“It’s not about writing a big check,” Donald says. “It’s about consistent giving. Even $25 a month can make a big difference.”
Faith, Fate and Football: the Legacy of Bill Hayes
BY ANTHONY JEFFRIES
Faith, fate and determination can take you a long way in life. Just ask football coaching legend and North Carolina Central University (NCCU) alumnus William “Bill” Hayes.
“I had polio in the second grade,” Hayes said. “I stayed at Duke Hospital and was fighting to walk. I remember looking out the window at guys playing basketball as I was lying in the bed. I remember asking God if you can get me out this bed, I will do something special.”
(continues on page 63)
Photo courtesy of NCCU University Archives
(continued from page 62)
Hayes was also a successful athletic director at THREE universities, including his alma mater, NCCU.
Hayes kept his promise to God. He later emerged as a football and track & field standout at Durham Hillside High.
An All-State football player, Hayes captained the North Carolina team in the Shrine Bowl high school all-star game versus South Carolina. The talented Hayes also was a state champion in the discus and shot put.
His success continued in college. Hayes was a three-time All-America lineman at NCCU in the 1960s.
His athletic career on the gridiron was only the prelude to an illustrious coaching career. Hayes, now retired, is in multiple Halls of Fame, including the North Carolina Central Athletic Hall of Fame and the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. Hayes won numerous coaching honors and boasted championship programs at Winston-Salem State and North Carolina A&T from the 1970s to the 2000s.
Hayes was also a successful athletic director at three universities, including his alma mater, NCCU.
Hayes’ coaching history is tied to HBCUs, but his biggest achievement may have been at Wake Forest, where he became the ACC’s (Atlantic Coast Conference) first Black football coach in the early 1970s during the beginning of integration.
His venture to Wake Forest almost didn’t happen. Hayes accepted the Hillside head coaching position after one year there as offensive line coach.
“I thought I was going to help my former [long-time] head coach Russell Blunt, and take over when he retired,” Hayes said. “But he was being pushed out to bring me in. Then the Hillside principal told me if I don’t win at least nine games, he’ll fire my ass.”
Hillside was 3-6 overall the previous season.
That same day, Hayes had job interviews lined up at Wake Forest and Johnson C. Smith. Wake Forest hired Hayes on the spot and the rest, they say, is history. Two days later, Hayes resigned from Hillside.
“I was not aware,” said Hayes about being the ACC’s first Black football
Photo courtesy of NCCU University Archives
Winston-Salem State University
North Carolina Central University
Wake Forest University
coach. “Actually, my goal was to be the head coach at Hillside.”
Chuck Mills, the new Wake Forest head coach at the time, was impressed with Hayes’ work ethic and his ability to relate to players, regardless of race.
Although the only Black assistant coach on the Wake Forest staff, Hayes never felt uncomfortable thanks to Mills.
“I was very lucky in my role at Wake Forest,” Hayes said. “My head coach, who hired me, was very different. He was a California guy. Segregation was not a part of anything he was used to. He made sure that every opportunity presented to me was on the up-and-up.
“One day, he said, Bill, I need you to go and speak for me, I’m overbooked. I said Coach, the Raleigh Country Club is segregated. He said it won’t be when you go down there and speak.”
The Winston-Salem Journal thought so much of Hayes that it ran a weekly article written by him about Wake Forest’s upcoming opponent.
“I acted like I was supposed to belong,” Hayes said. “I was a football coach who happened to be Black. I was never treated as a Black coach. That was a big difference.”
As a top recruiter, Hayes brought some of the region’s best talent – Black and white – to Wake Forest such as all-time rushing great James McDougald and future NFL players Clark Gaines and Larry Tearry.
I was not aware about being the ACC's black football coach.”
— WILLIAM "BILL" HAYES
But Hayes was much more than a scout. He coached the offensive line and running backs from 1973 to 1975 for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons.
It was rare for a Black assistant to be a position coach at a major college. Most Black coaches during that time were only hired to recruit Black players, who were starting to appear on predominantly white rosters.
“I remember when I used to go to the AFCA (American Football Coaches Association) convention every January,” Hayes added. “It would be a group of Black coaches.
They would say, hey man, that’s Bill Hayes. That guy is a DI (Division I)
(continues on page 65)
coach, and he coaches a position.”
A trailblazer in the ACC, Hayes opened the door for other Black assistants such as Duke’s Bishop Harris and Clemson’s Bill Swinger. Harris is a familiar name to NCCU alums as he and Hayes were college football teammates for the Eagles. Harris, who coached in the college and NFL ranks, eventually returned to NCCU as head football coach in the early 1990s.
Despite racial barriers being broken during integration, Black coaches were still scarce on major college football staffs.
“Down in the deep south, there were few Black coaches,” Hayes said. “Can you imagine scouting Ole Miss and Clemson in the early 70s?”
Despite the racial climate, his memories on the road were mostly positive.
“I experienced the appreciation of the staff in those buildings, watching the expression on the faces of the janitors and cooks when I walked in the stadium,” Hayes said. “I had the best of foods; they took care of me. They were proud of me without saying anything. It made me feel very proud and determined.”
After three years at Wake Forest, fate once again changed the course of Hayes’
career. Winston-Salem State (WSSU) was looking for a new head football coach, and Hall of Fame basketball coach Clarence “Big House” Gaines, also the athletic director, reached out to Hayes.
“We were practicing at Wake Forest,” Hayes said. “Big House came to our practice. After practice, he said, ‘Coach, I need a big favor. We have a vacancy, and our people don’t have a clue what it takes to coach college football. I need you to talk to the committee.’ I told them what Winston-Salem State needed to have in place to put together a quality football program.
“After I was through, this lady asked me if I wanted to be the head coach at Winston-Salem State. I told her I got a great job at Wake Forest. Coach Gaines later told me the committee wants me to be the head coach. I thought I might have the best job of any Black coach, but I might use this to get a raise at Wake Forest.”
But Hayes changed his mind after a conversation with Dr. Gene Hooks, then the Wake Forest Athletic Director.
“Hooks said he would give me a raise and elevate me on the coaching staff,” Hayes said. “He said no matter who the
head coach is you will always be one of the top assistants. I thought about what he said. How long will it be before I become a head coach, 10 years, 20 years? I decided to take the Winston-Salem State job. I didn’t want to leave Wake Forest, but I wanted to be a head coach.”
At first, Hayes thought he made a catastrophic mistake. At Wake Forest, he had a car, house and golf membership at a country club. At WSSU, Hayes didn’t have an office when he stepped foot on campus.
It turned out to be the right choice all along. He became the new Winston- Salem State Rams coach on New Year’s Day in 1976, which symbolized what was to come. Winston-Salem State was 1-10 overall prior to Hayes’ arrival.
It took two seasons for the Rams to reach the pinnacle. They posted backto-back CIAA crowns in 1977 and 1978, sporting 11-0 regular-season marks both years.
Under Hayes’ direction, Winston-Salem State became a football powerhouse from 1976 to 1987, winning three CIAA (Central Intercollege Athletic Association) titles and reaching the NCAA Division II playoffs twice including a national semifinal appearance.
His success continued down the road at North Carolina A&T. As head coach from 1988 to 2002, Hayes led the Aggies to two HBCU national titles, three MEAC championships and two NCAA Division I-AA playoff berths, including a spot in the quarterfinals.
In 2006 at NCCU, Hayes was named CIAA Athletic Director of the Year.
Hayes won numerous coaching awards, sent a load of players to the NFL and garnered 196 victories in 27 years of coaching. He carved out a prestigious career through hard work, believing in God and making the right decisions.
Please send address corrections to Advancement Services, Phone: 919-530-7399 / E-mail: rgallow7@nccu.edu or mail to 1801 Fayetteville Street, Durham, NC 27707. At a cost of $2.02 each, 10,000 copies of this public document was printed for a total of $20,201 in the Fall of 2025 and distributed to NCCU supporters and donors. NCCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees. Contact the SACSCOC at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of NCCU. Copyright 2025, North Carolina Central University.
Hayes served 4 years as athletic director at NCCU.
