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CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION NEWSLETTER SUMMER 2023

The First Issue of the New Cheyney University Alumni Newsletter!

HERSTORY: 1982 WOMENS FINAL FOUR TEAM

Nasmith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2023 Nominee.

CHEYNEY STUDENTS AT THE NBA ALLSTAR

Athletes, Student Government and Royal Court invited to NBA All-Star Weekend

CHEYNEY ALUMNI RUNNING FOR OFFFICE

HIGHLIGHTING CHEYNEY ALUMNUS

KHRIS DAVIS THE NEW LESLIE PICKNEY HILL LIBRARY

CHEYNEY ALUMNI

Prayers T

he members of the Cheyney University National Alumni Association community would like to extend our sincere condolences to all the families of alumni who passed away between 2019 and 2023.

Chester City

Naomi Beauford ‘46 Bernice Covert ‘51 Eloise Rothwell ‘59 Alfred Kirkland ‘71 Mildred McLaughlin ‘75 Anna Fisher ‘82

Greater Chester County Sara Ruth Rodger Johnson James Manning '62 Elmer Treadwell '72 Leslie Crutchfield '75

Montgomery County

Barbara Turner ‘60 Claire Morris Lyons ’62 Alpha Kappa Alpha Lawrence Stallworth ’62 Kappa Alpha Psi Paul A. Turner, Sr. ’62 Omega Psi Phi Lawrence Jack ‘63 Jane Boston Jordan ’63 Alpha Kappa Alpha Carlye Hawkins ‘69 Edgar Knights ’73 Kappa Alpha Psi Gale Naeemah Overton ‘76 Matthew Thomas ’77 Omega Psi Phi Francine Hughes-Stanback ‘97 Ceatrice Beard ‘98

North Carolina

Julia Hoffman Sanders, ‘49 Dr. Morris C. Peterkin, ‘63 Barbara Henry Ashe, ‘69

Philadelphia

Eleanor Palmer, '59 Joan Janerette '65 Harriet F. Reynolds '66 Alpha Kappa Alpha D. Sandra Roosa '66 Delta Sigma Theta Marilyn G. Clark '66, Dr. Richard Allen '70 Adrienne N. Owens '71 Cynthia Wright '74 Mary Banahene '79

Pittsburgh

Byron Gamble ‘70 Raymond Morton ‘72 Nan Moore Carrington

If you would like to submit a Cheyney Prayer, please send an email with the individual's full name, graduation year, chapter, and relevant affiliations to President@CheyneyAlum.org.

Women's Month Tribute PHYLLIS LOGAN SIMMS '49

heyney alumna, Phyllis Logan Simms ‘49 recently celebrated her 96th birthday.

Phyllis was born in Philadelphia on August 12, 1926, the youngest child of Rev. and Mrs. John R. Logan Sr.

On Sunday the women would get dressed up because the men from Lincoln would come to Cheyney and visit the female students. Most students socialized outside on sunny days. They did not have a Student Union Building. Life was very different for Cheyney students, but they received an excellent education and now have lifelong friends.

She graduated from South Philadelphia High School for Girls in 1944 and continued her studies matriculating at Virginia State College in Petersburg, VA.

Many students had to work part-time to go to school, but this was not an issue for them because they wanted to achieve their goals and graduate from Cheyney State College.

While attending Virginia State she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 1945. In September 1946, she transferred to Cheyney State College and continued her education until she graduated in January 1949.

During her senior year, Phyllis would travel to Philadelphia to attend Alpha Kappa Alpha chapter meetings with Gamma Epsilon. She was also vice president of the chapter for one year. Phyllis said she had to travel to Philly because Cheyney did not have any sororities or fraternities on campus.

Phyllis fell in love with Cheyney State College. She said she liked being close to her home in Philadelphia. She enjoyed the campus life because it was a smaller school and she was able to get to know her classmates. Phyllis lived in the girls’ dormitory during her junior year and loved living on campus. When she became a senior at Cheyney State she lived and worked at the Melrose House on the campus, where the President, Dr. Leslie Pinckney Hill lived with his family. During her senior year, she also lived in Brown Hall with other female students who were majoring in Home Economics. During the day the students would attend class on the first floor, and at night they would sleep upstairs. The students had to prepare meals for Dr. Hill and his family. Phyllis remembers that Cheyney had two dormitories for the female students and one dormitory for the men. The students attended all classes on campus. Many students commuted to Cheyney using the train. When the students were not in class they would take walks on the campus and ride to West Chester. Some students would walk down Cheyney Road to the store to get a bite to eat.

She loved the sisterhood they all shared and she is still an active, Lifetime Member in the sorority today. She is now a Diamond Soror with over 75 years of membership. Phyllis was also voted Miss Homecoming Queen in her senior year at Cheyney State. She still remembers being in the parade at the football game. After graduating from Cheyney in 1949 with a BS Degree in Home Economics, Phyllis became a teacher at the Raymond Rosen Child Care Center in Philadelphia, Pa. She continued working as a Home Economics teacher with the Philadelphia School District until she retired from Finletter School in 1989. Phyllis lives in Willow Grove, Pa with her oldest daughter, Bonnie. She also has a daughter, Carmen, who lives in Maryland, and a son, Anthony, who is an orthodontist. She has 6 grandchildren and 8 greatgrandchildren. Phyllis is an active member of her Episcopal Church, St. Simon, her sorority, and plans to visit Cheyney University for Founders Day. Thank you Bonita Farrow Gibson ’73 for sharing your mother’s story.

THE SMALL, BUT

Mighty

NORTH CAROLINA CHAPTER

he North Carolina Chapter held our first meeting on Saturday, February 18th @ 10 am via Zoom. We reviewed our 2023 calendar, and budget and then enjoyed each other’s company. We have adopted the slogan – “We are a small but MIGHTY chapter,” and we are looking forward to continued growth and a dynamic year ahead!

Since our chapter members are spread out across North Carolina and South Carolina – we are meeting in small groups during the month of April. Three (3) groups – Charlotte, Raleigh, and Burlington will host in-person gatherings to strengthen our Cheyney family bond and support one another. We also look forward to an intimate virtual gathering with CUNAA President Verron Hayspell on April 17, 2023. Our goal is to support the overall mission of the national alumni association and push their initiatives forward to support our beloved alma mater. Lastly, this year in preparation for new leadership – we will have a “Steering Committee Interest Meeting” for members who may be interested in holding a position in our chapter. The interest meeting will review each position and ad hoc position within the North Carolina chapter in hopes to have members feel more comfortable running for office and transitioning into roles. For more information on how to get involved, please contact: Dr. Angela L. Harris President, North Carolina Chapter DrAngelaLHarris@gmail.com

DR. HAKIM STOVALL '00 HELPING OTHERS REALIZE A

Positive Path Forward

heyney University alumnus Dr. Hakim Stovall’s career path has come full circle. Beginning as an intern in the Philadelphia Medical Examiner’s Office at age 16, and spending nine years as a correctional officer while continuing his studies, he has now accepted a high-level role with the Washington, DC Medical Examiner’s Office as a Fatality Review Specialist.

Whether it has been academics or profession, Stovall has always sought to reach the next level. This relentless motivation has allowed him to fulfill his passion for helping others access essential resources so they can have a better path forward. Stovall earned a B.A. in social relations with a concentration in criminal justice in 2000 and a M.S. in adult education in 2004. He credits Cheyney for creating the foundation upon which he combined his goals with his passion, becoming the first African American male to complete Wilmington University’s Prevention Science Doctoral Program. His dissertation was titled, “Tertiary Prevention: Recidivism Reduction and the Effectiveness of Reentry Agency Impact.” He studied the effectiveness of community programs and how supports, such as housing, employment, transportation, childcare, and access to food could

help individuals within targeted populations. His conclusion: these programs are necessities to help individuals overcome societal issues and be successful. “The focus of prevention science is the study of different populations,” said Stovall. “The goal was to identify strategies that can be used to mitigate societal issues, such as recidivism prevention, gun violence, opioid abuse – and how all of these have been impacted by COVID-19.” His work helped him realize the potential of reentry and recidivism. While applying newly attained knowledge within a professional setting, he successfully implemented the findings from his studies into real-world practice. The Stovall family is part of Cheyney’s legacy. Hakim’s dad, Gary, and two brothers, Omar and Jamal, are proud Cheyney graduates.

Looking back on his academic and professional experience, Stovall is most grateful for his ability to connect with individuals young and old, maintaining the same passion throughout this time. Most importantly, he wants the Cheyney community to know they will always have a support system. “It warms my heart to have the feeling of supporting individuals who want to find their passion by starting at Cheyney,” said Stovall. “We are a family that can help each other navigate in the direction we want to go.”

HERstory

CANNOT BE ERASED In recognition of their historic accomplishments, the 1982 team was featured on ESPN in a "SC FEATURED" mini-documentary entitled "The Lone Wolves." Also, the team was highlighted in a CBS Sports shortform film entitled "Dear Coach Stringer" which was screened at this year's NCAA Women's Final Four in Dallas. Other notable accomplishments include:

n March 28, 1982, at the Norfolk Scope, led by Naismith Hall of Fame Coach C. Vivian Stringer, The Lady Wolves of Cheyney State College (now Cheyney University) competed in the FIRST NCAA Women’s Division I National Championship game.

This trailblazing team completed the season with an outstanding record of 28 wins and 3 losses and with a 23-game win streak. Before falling to Louisiana Tech in the National Championship game, the team beat powerhouses Auburn University of the Southeastern Conference, North Carolina State University of the Atlantic Coast Conference, Kansas State University of the Big Eight Conference (now Big 12 Conference), and the University of Maryland of the Atlantic Coast Conference in the National Semifinal (Final Four).

Repeated as Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Champions The '82 team was composed of 8 High School All Americans The '82 team was undefeated at home (Cope Hall) for 4 seasons Only HBCU Basketball program (women’s and men’s) to finish the season ranked in the top five in the national polls (No. 2) First and only HBCU Basketball program (women or men) to play for and win a regional championship (East Region) in the Division 1 NCAA Basketball tournament. The team would only be succeeded by the Cheyney State team in 1984 which advanced again to the NCAA Final Four, before falling to Tennessee. Valerie Walker was the FIRST woman from an HBCU to be voted to the Kodak All American team. Valerie Walker, who was a 2 time All-American in 1981 and again in 1982, would only be succeeded by her Cheyney Lady Wolves teammate Yolanda Laney, who was voted to the 1984 Kodak All American Team, which holds the distinction of being the FIRST composed entirely of women of color. Head Coach C. Vivian Stringer; Assistant Coaches Ann Hill and Carlotta Schaefer are the FIRST and ONLY All African American coaching staff to compete for an NCAA National Women’s Basketball National Championship. James Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Nominee Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, Nominee

Coached by James Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame coach C. Vivian Stringer, this team holds the distinction of being the FIRST and ONLY Historically Black College and University (HBCU) basketball program (Women or Men) to advance to an NCAA Division I Final Four or Championship game. During the 2023 NCAA Women's Basketball tournament, University of South Carolina Head Coach and Philadelphia native Dawn Staley wore a throwback Cheyney State #44 jersey Yolanda Laney during a nationally televised game.

Photo: USA Today Sports

My Quadrangle

A PLACE TO REMEMBER A Memoir by Sandra Wilson That window became my sight of a new world as well as my refrigerator in winter. I could see so much from that perch. People holding hands, stopping at the corner for the forbidden kiss at the designated corner, birds preparing for seasons, a lone fox streaking about at night, professors heading to classes, and folks talking while sitting on the benches. There was so much to see. Whenever I wanted to think, I sat there. This was the quadrangle, a massive yard outlined by strong stone historical buildings populated with happy people. I liked it. The boys’ dorm at the other end of the quadrangle and the girl’s dorm were like bookends to the grassy knoll. The sides were filled with class buildings, a library, an administration building, and an auditorium with a stage large enough to use as a gym. This was my new home. We were told to keep it sacred, no trash tossing, holding hands, or walking across the grass.

Every season it offered a new presence. The fall awed us with leaves of many colors. In the winter we could no longer jump rope on the sidewalks because the ice pieces smiled through the snow to produce a greeting card picture. waved to my parents as they drove away. They did not look back. Tears streamed down my face. Although folks were coming and going, I felt alone and headed for my new dorm room.

It was perfect for snowmen, angels, and snowball fights. Then Spring would bring fresh smells of flowers punctuating its revival. There was no picking of the flowers. There were ours already. When summer pulled me away, I couldn’t wait to get back in the fall.

As I passed young men punctuating the path to the girls’ dorm, I smiled at their words of welcome.

Then new buildings surrounded the old. A cafeteria was behind the girls’ dorm serving 3 meals a day. The Commuter’s Lounge, and Book Store nestled nearby.

When I closed the door, I sat in the window to watch the activity below, waiting for my roommates to arrive. Would they like me? Would I like them? I felt safe in my new space. There was laughter, hugging, and shaking of hands as I looked down from the window. Joyful spirits floated about the huge lawn, the quadrangle. My mother had left me a bag of fried chicken and her famous pound cake. Although it smelled delicious, I was not hungry. Suddenly I heard singing and stomping as six men dressed in purple and gold marched in unison and chanted. It was fascinating. Who were these young men who shouted out that they were from Lincoln University and some strange words in another language? The only thing similar to it was the drill team I had been a part of back home. Three beautiful girls dressed for a special occasion walked about the yard wearing crowns and greeting people. I found out later that they were queens of some kind. So, this is what college is like.

Construction offered new dorms on a new quadrangle. The first real gymnasium with an Olympic size pool emitted a smell of chlorine beaconing to swimmers. This was my world and then it was not. Graduation on the quad was as it should be solemn, important, prideful, and rewarding. My parents smiled as I was awarded Student Teacher of the Year. It was what I had worked for. Then I sat in my window talking to my roommates in the new dorm about how we would stay in touch. After packing my things, ready, not really ready, to go, I took my last look at the new quadrangle and headed up to the old one for one more look. I waved goodbye as my parents and I drove away. Once more, tears streamed down my face. I did not look back. This time I knew that I was off to the next step in my life. I enjoyed the last one and hoped that what was ahead would be just as good. Even after over 50 years, I still miss that quadrangle. Whenever I visit the campus, I find a bench and sit on the old quadrangle smiling and remembering, and sometimes a tear streams down my face.

MCCA

Recognizes

HAROLD FREEMAN '42 Freeman then joined the School District of Philadelphia and had a lengthy career as a teacher/disciplinarian at Sulzberger Junior High School and master teacher/roster chair at Masterman School for the academically talented. He rose to the Director of School Facilities, overseeing building renovations and new school construction for the city’s public schools.

arold Freeman, Sr. '42 recently celebrated his 103rd birthday. One of Cheyney’s oldest living graduates, Freeman was born in Philadelphia on December 3, 1919, the middle child of seven children to Aaron and Emma Freeman, both graduates of Bennett College in South Carolina.

He attended primary schools in South Philadelphia before graduating from Central High School in 1937. Freeman continued his studies, matriculating at then Cheyney State College, while working to pay for his education in the college’s boiler room, playing football as an offensive lineman, and majoring in Industrial Arts. Following his graduation from Cheyney, he returned to Philadelphia and married his high school and college sweetheart, Ophelia M. Greene ’41. From that union, Harold W. Freeman, Jr was born. However, a month before his birth, in the waning years of World War II, Freeman was drafted and inducted into the Army in May 1944. Freeman quickly rose up the ranks in the armed service attaining the highest non-commissioned rank of Technical Sergeant while serving the majority of his term of duty in the Philippines. His intellect, physical prowess, and tenacity made him a natural candidate for Officer Training. Despite many entries from his superiors, Freeman, chafing under omni present yoke of a segregated Army, and wanting to reunite with his new family, terminated his time with the service at the earliest possible date. He was honorably discharged in May 1946.

Following his retirement, he fulfilled his dream of returning to the Cheyney area. His home was built on Derry Drive, just off of Cheyney Road, in a new development built by local Black developer, Lawrence Derry. From birth, religion has always played a pivotal role in Freeman’s life, the first 50 years at Tindley Temple AME Church in South Philadelphia where he spearheaded major initiatives including a weekly soup kitchen and many other charitable endeavors. Once he moved to the Cheyney environs, he became a stalwart member of First Presbyterian Church of West Chester where he continued his charitable bent including initiatives at Cheyney University; coordinating efforts at Safe Harbor soup kitchen/shelter; volunteering as a driver/fundraiser for the American Cancer Society of Delaware County; chairing the Zoning Hearing Board of Thornberry Township; and, setting up Chester County Community Foundation’s Jessie L & Harold W Freeman Foundation, a perpetual fund for those in need. About 10 years ago Freeman moved from his home in the Cheyney area to the Barkley Friends Senior Living Community in West Chester. All was well until a fateful night, November 17, 2017, when a four-alarm, massive conflagration ripped through the facility, killing four memory care patients in the apartment directly above Freeman. Here, he was suffering from smoke inhalation, before he was escorted to safety by firemen. He was left with absolutely nothing! Everything he owned except the scorched/fire-damaged bedclothes he was wearing. To start all over at 98 years old, all his worldly possessions gone in a pyre of smoke was daunting, to say the least. He was relocated by his son, Harold W. Freeman, Jr to the Cathedral Village Retirement Community in the Upper Roxborough/Andorra section of Philadelphia where he now happily lives. Harold W. Freeman, Sr’s family consists of son, Harold W. Freeman, Jr and his wife, Diane Baker of Lafayette Hill, PA; grandson, Craig Malcolm Freeman and his wife Torii Ransome; great-grandsons, Ransome Aaron, Maxwell Spaulding, and Samuel Armstrong; and greatgranddaughter, Baylor Constance Freeman.

Reflections

OF A PERSON WHOSE NAME IS ON A CHEYNEY BUILDING Submitted by Mary G Lightfoot He served 31 years in the Philadelphia public school system, beginning in 1920 as a teacher at Reynolds Elementary School. In 1923 he moved to the Lynd Elementary School, and in 1926 became principal of the William Henry Harrison Elementary School. He was the first Negro principal of a secondary school in Philadelphia and served from 1945 to 1951 at Sulzberger Junior High School, 48th St., and Fairmount Ave. Dr. James H. Duckrey, Jr. was President of Cheyney State College from 1951 to 1965, and a Porter Philadelphia teacher. He was credited with providing the college with the greatest period of expansion in its 127-year history.

n February 2023, CUNAA Membership Committee Chair Bettie Hunt Acox hosted an activity and asked: How many buildings on campus are named after African Americans? Some members knew the number and some were not sure.

I have had thoughts since this activity about who are the African Americans whose names are on a campus building. My next thoughts were, do I know at least one person and the answer was yes. I am an alumna who graduated in May 1959. The President of Cheyney State Teachers’ College was Dr. James H. Duckrey. During my 4 years, I saw him many times on campus however, did I know him? My thoughts now are I know very little about him so I googled him and this is what I found. James H. Duckrey, Jr. was born June 11, 1897, in Cambridge Middle County Massachusetts. He is named after his father who was a minister who studied at Lincoln University, Pa. He had six brothers and one sister. They lived in Boston and moved to Philadelphia. He was an alumnus of Central High School, the old School of Pedagogy, and the University of Pennsylvania, and earned master's and doctor's degrees in education from Temple University. He also did graduate work at Harvard University.

He was a member of the Pennsylvania Council of Education, the Advisory Committee for the Development of a Master Plan for Higher Education in Pennsylvania, and the Philadelphia Crime Prevention Association. He was also a former chairman of the Board of Managers of the Christian Street branch of the YMCA, and a former superintendent of the First African Baptist Church Sunday School at 16th and Christian Streets. On Wednesday, April 11, 1968, Dr. Duckrey died in the Chester County Hospital, West Chester, PA. He was 69 years old.

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Access to Subject Matter Experts

KHRIS DAVIS

2023

Khris Davis

KHRIS DAVIS

Photos: Members of the Cheyney University Alumni Chapter of Philadelphia attended the 186th Cheyney University Founders' Day Event in Marian Anderson.

Photos Credit: Lia Change

Kyle: Bro. Davis, where did you grow up, and who were some of your childhood influences? Khris: You know I grew up in Camden, New Jersey, right across the river across the bridge from Philly. You know I grew up in the church. It was church, like 7 days a week. You know. Didn't have a lot of experience outside of the church, so for me. The only experience that I had a relationship with art was singing in the choir. You know what I mean. I had a family of singers, and my mom said things like that. you know.have a big family, big family, but as far as my immediate, you know, nuclear. I'm the oldest. I have 4 brothers and 2 sisters.and you know, Mom and Dad. and it was. It was no Kevin. I love my city.you know, every city has its challenges; every developmental experience one has as a child has challenges; I mean, you could grow up in the suburbs and still experience some of the same things I experience, just the differences. Hey, Your house is nice here. The school might have a decent, more recent library. But you still could experience things that psychologically and emotionally break you and limit you, if you will. But being from Camden, that's not the effect I had on me. I think that being from Camden, and in a sense, I don't know if it's something given to me by God. But I was always seeking the journey in life, you know, even from a very young age. I had this desire to be in New York, and I couldn't understand why this was before I even understood what acting was. It'll move me.you know, it just looks like an interesting place. So being from Camden gave me an edge, if I'm going to be honest because there were comforts that other people needed that I did not. As it pertains to the journey right, I wasn't seeking comforts where they were; I wasn't seeking relief. Being from Camden, having the family that I have, having the experiences that I have there. I've had there, you know, helped shape me in that way, and I saw a lot of things that we're great, you know, I've done a lot of things, you know, trying in in the journey to find myself that I don't think we're great either, but I do think that by the grace of God, I was allowed to, or given the opportunity to step into something new, step into a greater purpose; and I don't think that I could have done that had not a had that had not really shaped my life up in a substantial way.

KHRIS DAVIS

Khris Davis KHRIS DAVIS Kyle: You've done theater. You've done television, and you've done film. What have you enjoyed the most? Khris: The stories, the stories are the best, and the best thing about it, you know. I mean, everything else is. It takes skill. It takes patience; you know it's like hatching an egg; you know it takes a lot of work, and the temperature has to be right. You know it has to be just right. and you don't always hatch the egg properly, you know, and not every job is going to be a win, and not every character you play is going to be meaningful or impactful, you know. But the stories are so beautiful, man, and I keep getting an opportunity to go to places and meet interesting people has been so exciting for me. Man. you know, I just don't know. I just feel blessed that I've had the ability to connect with these characters and to not just connect with them but hopefully humanize them because I don't think that any character is fake. They all represent the human aspect, a true human aspect. So you know you. You do a movie of an actual person. You call it a biopic, or you do a movie of a person that was created by the mind of a writer. So it's exciting to bring some type of humanity to these people, and I love it; Man, it's just. It's really cool, then, and I hope that I get to tell more stories about interesting people that resonate. Photos: From the motion picture "Big George Foreman".

Kyle: With your upcoming film. You know you're playing George Foreman. How was the experience? I'm sure you got an opportunity to meet him. How familiar were you with this story?

Khris: Other than the fact that he sold the grills, That was all I knew. That's about the extent of my knowledge, as Mr. Foreman was concerned. You know it's crazy. I'm a fight Fan, too, and I didn't even know that he had a second comeback, a second career. I have no idea. I was watching Fighting at that time, and I still didn't know, you know what I'm saying. Everything I learned about him was new. I mean the fact that he won Olympic gold. Just one year after the Golden Gloves. You know what I mean. I didn't know the history of his fighting style. I didn't know that he became a pastor again; like I said before, I didn't know that he came back again and won a title at age 45. I didn't know that he died and came back to life again. All new information to me. So when I went to meet this man, he had become an even larger giant. We're about the same height. He felt so much bigger than me. You know. He felt massive to me when I met him. Kyle, I couldn't speak. All I could do was look at him, I mean. I had questions that I had written down. All I could do was look at him first off. What am I gonna ask him that somebody else has not yet asked? But it was massive. The videos that I got were the conversations that we had. You know. I'm going to cherish that for the rest of my life; it was unlike anything else. He scared me a couple of times. You know he shocked me. We were sitting in the car at the gas station, and he and he just whipped over, and he said, Look at it. I'm like, Okay, Look at me; you find yourself? I'm like, find myself? You find. I had to look deep into his eyes until I could identify myself in his. I could see myself like, and he said, Did you find yourself? I said I did. He said that's what I was doing to all those fighters when I was staring at them in the ring. I was looking for myself in their eyes, and I thought that was beautiful. A beautiful thing. !That's the story of George Foreman. He was always looking for himself until he found himself.

Watch full interview at www.cheyneyalum.org

Leslie Pickney Hill LIBRARY REOPENS WITH ROBUST ENHANCEMENTS

hile the COVID-19 pandemic presented many unprecedented challenges, it also provided new opportunities to reimagine campus spaces to meet the needs of 21st-century learning.

Due to federal, state, and local regulations, to keep Cheyney University’s entire community safe and healthy, the Leslie Pinkney Hill Library had to close its doors. But, when one door closes, another one opens. Cheyney’s administrative staff used the moment to rethink how the library could become a learning atmosphere that can meet the demands of today’s higher education. When she joined Cheyney, Dr. Gramby-Sobukwe was assigned to oversee the library renovation project. “Cheyney’s Administration first went to the campus community and surveyed them on what they wanted in the new library. The outreach revealed that the new library should ensure a quiet study space with access to quality research materials.”

A leadership team was assembled to create the ideal library space and was charged with researching and sharing how libraries are adapting to the demands of the 21st century. A library strategy committee that included students was formed to help create a 21stcentury library space. Next, an architectural team provided the library strategy committee with names of nearby universities that recently added 21stcentury updates. The team visited the libraries at Penn State University’s Great Valley campus, Temple University, and Rosemont College. The visits helped identify key features that fit the needs of the campus. The site assessments were discussed with the greater campus community. Mark DeSantis, a senior majoring in communications, was one of the students on the steering committee who provided insight and feedback to help guide the administrative staff. “The library throughout history has always symbolized the heart of a college’s campus,” said DeSantis.

TO MEET THE NEEDS OF A

21st Century Learning Facility

“It is the people’s palace, a place where everyone can come together to create, communicate, and experience growth as a person and community.” In October 2022, Cheyney’s President Aaron Walton called for reopening the library by the start of the 2023 spring semester. While some renovations were already underway, the facilities team and library strategy committee began planning and implementing renovations to meet the goal. The library’s doors reopened on January 30 and students were introduced to the reimagined learning facility. The inspiration that shaped the renovations was focused on creating a Learning Commons where students and faculty could engage in and outside of the classroom while in the library. The following four key features were essential to the enhancements: Academic Support Resources – The Academic Success Center, TRiO programs, Instructional Design, and Teaching Innovation programs were relocated to the library where they partnered with library staff to offer regular study halls, tutoring, coaching, and workshops.

Collaborative and Individual Quiet Study Spaces – Study spaces were expanded in the stacks and device connectivity and printing were added along with desktop stations, and group study spaces. Gathering and Lounge Spaces - A coffee and a snack shop were built along with other spaces that created a comfortable setting to study, read, or just lounge. Innovative Learning Spaces – Areas were created to inspire students to explore knowledge outside of the classroom. Students will be surveyed for themes around the library to explore, and the library staff will curate spaces catered to the themes. Planning is underway for innovation labs and maker studios where students can participate in innovative learning using various new technologies. Cheyney is exploring 3-D printing, virtual reality, and podcasting among other technology-driven tools to promote innovation and self-directed learning. February 2023 Photo: @cheyneyuniv on Instagram

GREATER CHESTER COUNTY CHAPTER

Sponsors

A FUNDRAISER IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PEOPLE'S LIGHT THEATER

Photo: Leigh Jackson (Moderator), Drake Smith (Lincoln Student), Brian Marable, Prince Kiiru (Cheyney Student), Cheyney UJniversity President Walton, and President Allen.

n March 4, 2023, Greater Chester County Cheyney Alumni Chapter (GCCCAC) partnered with People’s Light Theater to host a live stage performance of the play “Thurgood” in Malvern, PA.

Renowned playwright, George Stevens, created a script that captured the humor, intellect, and humanity of the judicial and civil rights icon. A sold-out audience was treated to a phenomenal performance by the talented stage actor, Brian Marable of Detroit, Michigan. In attendance for the 90-minute matinee were presidents of both Cheyney and Lincoln Universities, along with over 100 Cheyney alumni members and supporters, 50 students from Cheyney and 40 students from Lincoln University of Pennsylvania. Following the performance, the gallery took part in a robust panel discussion that focused on, “Educating Black Leaders Today." When the panel concluded many gathered at a local establishment for dinner and conversation. It was a wonderful time enjoyed by everyone in attendance.

From the Chester Chapter of Cheyney University The Chester Chapter meets every 2nd Monday of the month, except July & August, 7:00-8:00 pm. More information email: CUGPW1@gmail.com Snail mail: P.O. Box 1094 Chester, PA, 19013

Camera Shy Members: Charlotte Beverly, Laura Blenman, Denise Garris, Charles Kirkland, Thaddeus Kirkland, Felecia Laury , and Susan Micheal

th 2020 - 38 Annual & Final “Society’s Promise” Cotillion-M. Anderson Center, Cheyney University

Upcoming Chester Chapter Events

Bowling Social-TBA, Boscov’s Family & Friends Day, Meet & Greet Chester City Students from on Campus (games and refreshments), Stress Relief Bags (during finals), Pantry Donation, Jazz & Art Exhibits 2024

PHL CHAPTER

Recruiting

YOUNG TALENT & MORE

he Cheyney University Alumni Chapter of Philadelphia continues to work towards helping the students, faculty, and staff at Cheyney University. Thank you to everyone who contributed to our 1837 Campaign, donated to our CashApp ($CUACP) or attended our Day Party Scholarship Fundraiser. Please be sure to join CUACP as we participate in the 3rd Annual HBCU Alumni Alliance 5K, on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at Cooper River Park. This park is just over the Ben Franklin Bridge, in Pennsauken, NJ. Spring is in the AIR!! The rain will come to make way for the flowers to bloom and the sun to shine. This season is synonymous with new beginnings and optimism. The Cheyney University Alumni Chapter of Philadelphia is excited to assist any student ‘in need’ and to continue to support our beloved Alma Mater. We also look forward to attending the Alumni Weekend events, for it’s such a beautiful thing to come back HOME.

Photo: Members of the Cheyney University Alumni Chapter of Philadelphia participated in an HBCU College Fair at a Community Center located at 10th & Wallace in Philadelphia, PA on March 25, 2023.

Let’s lift the names of our Cheyney family who are now among the Ancestors, for they paved the way for us to continue to strive for Excellence and Perseverance. Cheyney, Cheyney, Alma Mater, Thou Whose Light Must Never Fail. With a Deep and True Devotion, We Thy Sons and Daughters HAIL!!

We Believe

IN THE FUTURE OF ATHLETICS AT CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY OF PA

MEN'S & WOMEN'S BASKTBALL

SPRING 5K RUN & HEALTH EDUCATION FAIR

BECOME A MEMBER OF CU'S ONLY ATHLETIC BOOSTER CLUB FOR $50 TheCheyneyCClub.com

VOLLEYBALL CHEERLEADING THE BAND

JOIN US FOR OUR MEETINGS IN-PERSON OR ONLINE 3RD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH PHILADELPHIA, PA THE CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY C CLUB, INC. P.O. BOX 4966 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19119-0066 CCLUBCU@GMAIL.COM

2023

Student-Athletes

GAIN UNIQUE NETWORKING EXPERIENCE ATTENDING NBA ALL-STAR WEEKEND

he NBA’s All-Star Game weekend came and went in February, but for Cheyney University of Pennsylvania senior Nathan Rosario, the memories, and connections, may last a lifetime.

Sitting a few rows from the court during the NBAHBCU Classic game, Rosario, a business administration major and guard for the men’s basketball team, quickly turned his attention from the court to who was behind him. “There were representatives from different corporate companies sitting behind us and they were talking about professional opportunities they have available,” said Rosario. “We provided our academic backgrounds and majors and now we’re looking at interviews.” Men’s basketball head coach Terrell Stokes connected with professional contacts to score a chance to attend the festivities in Salt Lake City for him and four of his players, including Rosario. When they started talking to the corporate professionals also in attendance, Stokes knew the trip was a success. “And they started having conversations with them, ‘What university are you from?’” Stokes said. “And the students would answer them ‘We’re Cheyney University, we’re an HBCU.’

"The conversation went into, ‘What are you studying? Are you graduating? We have opportunities for internships, we want to follow up with you.’” Networking at the star-studded event gave exposure to Rosario and his teammates, sophomores Nathan Pettus, who flew on a plane for the first time as part of the trip, Kian Nixon, and Jabril Baxter, that they never had before. It’s all part of Coach Stokes’ plan to prioritize academics and help create a career path. “I know they’ll adapt on the court,” he said. “But the opportunities to prepare for the business world, how to have a meeting, how to dress for a meeting, how to write a resume, how to speak to a professional, what language to use; these are the things that we teach in the program. The CEOs were so impressed with the students. These are principles I teach daily in the program.” Stokes is in his second year as head coach of a revitalized men’s basketball program that is working toward playing a full season of games and readmission to NCAA Division II competition. “The program is ascending. We played 28 games this past season, including a lot of high-level Division II schools with great athletes,” said Stokes. “The team GPA is 3.3, that’s what I’m proudest about.”

2023

HBCUS SUPPORTING

Gymnastics

embers of the Cheyney University Alumni Chapter of Philadelphia and the members of the Philadelphia HBCU Alumni Alliance went to Temple University to cheer on the FISK University Gymnastics Team. Fisk University is the only HBCU with a Gymnastics Team. According to Fisk University Athletics, the team achieved their highest team score of the season of a 192.400. They showed tremendous growth, resilience, and stamina during this meet both physically and mentally resulting in a 4.25 point increase since their January Vegas debut, where they scored a 188.15. The Fisk University gymnastics team proved to be a force to be reckoned with at the Temple Meet, and their hard work, commitment, and dedication paid off with an impressive performance that highlighted the team's talent and potential.

Photo: @fiskugymnastics on Instagram

National Alumni Association

Chapter Leadesrship Verron S Hayspell President

Hal J Dumas Vice President

Sheree Monron-Whitsett Recording Secretary

CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 288 Westtown, PA 19395 EMAIL info@cheyneyalum.org WEBSITE www.CheyneyAlum.org MEETINGS EVERY SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH AT 9:00AM VIA ZOOM PLEASE USE QR CODE TO PAY YOUR NATIONAL DUES

Khimula Taylor Treasurer

William Shumake Financial Secretary

Kyle Adams Corresponding Secretary

Sekini Moore Board Member at Large

Ron Swann Board Member at Large

Elaine Abbas Board Member at Large

Philadelphia Chapter Leadesrship Kim Perry President

Breene Waters Vice President

Iesha S. Davis-Copper Recording Secretary

CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY ALUMNI CHAPTER OF PHILADELPHIA MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 42436 Philadelphia, PA 19101

Karen E. Shanks Treasurer

Lloyd Mandy, III Financial Secretary

EMAIL cuacphilly1837@gmail.com MEETINGS FIRST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:00PM

Iesha S. Davis-Copper Corresponding Secretary

Delaware Chapter Leadesrship Catherine L. McCall President

Mary Lecel Robinson Vice President

CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY ALUMNI CHAPTER OF DELAWARE (STATE) MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 42436 Philadelphia, PA 19101 EMAIL president.cuacd@gmail.com MEETINGS EVERY THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 38

N/A Recording Secretary

Khimula Taylor Treasurer

David Gordon Financial Secretary

Vacant Corresponding Secretary

Greater Chester County Chapter Leadesrship Dr. Elaine Kirkland President

Earl Johnson Vice President

Mialee Anderson Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 42436 Philadelphia, PA 19101 EMAIL elakirkland@gmail.com MEETINGS EVERY THIRD MONDAY OF THE MONTH AT 7:00PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 16

Wilbur L. Kirkland Treasurer

N/A Financial Secretary

Vacant Corresponding Secretary

DC METRO AREA (DMV) Chapter Leadesrship Natalie Brown President

Emmanuel Lawton Vice President

MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 6841 Upper Marlboro, MD 20792 EMAIL mail@cheyneydmv.org WEBSITE www.cheyneydmv.org MEETINGS EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 106

Julie Tanen Recording Secretary

Elaine Abbas Treasurer

Lorretta Guile Financial Secretary

Angela Stewart Corresponding Secretary

PITTSBURGH Chapter Leadesrship Gerald Smith President

Mark Alexander Vice President

Rochelle M Chatman Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 8436 Swissvale, PA 15218 EMAIL geraldsmith_netzero.net MEETINGS EVERY THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 9

Melissa Coleman Treasurer

Gregory Samuel Financial Secretary

Rochelle M. Chatman Corresponding Secretary Tammi McMillian Marshall Board at Large Annette Scott Piper Board at Large

Delaware County (PA) Chapter Leadesrship Cephus Richardson President

Yasir Roundtree Vice President

Lottie Washington Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 146 Lansdowne, PA 15218 EMAIL cuacdc@gmail.com MEETINGS EVERY FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 40

Gaynelle Turner-Lewis Treasurer

Sheree Monroe-Whitsett Financial Secretary

Cynthia Williams Corresponding Secretary Evelyn Matthew Brown Board at Large Rosalind Jones Johnson Board at Large

Chester City Chapter Leadesrship George H. Walker President

Christopher Williams Vice President

Tanira Chambers Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 1094 Chester, PA 19013 EMAIL cugpw1@gmail.com MEETINGS EVERY SECOND MONDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30PM (EXCEPT JULY & AUGUST) FINANCIAL MEMBERS 12

Susan Michael Treasurer

Mary Payne Financial Secretary

Patricia Bartley-Walker Corresponding Secretary Felecia Laury Chaplain

Montgomery County

Chapter Leadesrship Betty Berry-Holmes President

Bettie Hunt Aycox Vice President

Betty Berry-Holmes Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS Po Box 1094 Chester, PA 19013 EMAIL cugpw1@gmail.com MEETINGS EVERY FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 6:30PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 40

Brenda E. Braithwaite Treasurer

Barbara Galloway Mosley Financial Secretary

Mary Lightfood Corresponding Secretary Luise Murphy Baum Parliamentarian Ozzie Hackett, Jr Archives Robert Payne Jr Chaplain

Texas Chapter Leadesrship Natasha Livingston President

Sean Graham Vice President

Betty Berry-Holmes Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS 9119 HWY 6 STE 230 Unit 139 Missouri City, TX 77459 EMAIL mslivingston@comcast.net MEETINGS EVERY THIRD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 7:00PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 10

Dionne Furr Treasurer

Obah Kinese Corresponding Secretary

Metro Atlanta

Chapter Leadesrship Natasha Livingston Clarence Jackson

Bernadette Harris Vice President

Betty Berry-Holmes Financial Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS 450 Emerald Lake Drive Fayetteville, GA 30215 EMAIL infocheyney.atl@gmail.com WEBSITE www.cheyney-atl.org MEETINGS LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH AT 2:00PM (EXCEPT JULY & AUGUST) FINANCIAL MEMBERS 28

Sylvia Kirkland Treasurer

Deborah Mills Corresponding Secretary

NY Tri-State Chapter Leadesrship Lisa Chin President

Santosha Troutman Vice President

Cheryl Hickman Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 120937 Brooklyn, NY 11212 EMAIL cheyneytri.state@gmail.com MEETINGS LAST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 7:00PM FINANCIAL MEMBERS 22

Jimyce Johnson Corresponding Secretary

Karen Anderson Treasurer

Tanya McLaughlin Treasurer

Greater South Jersey Chapter Leadesrship Aaron Kay President

Ernest Merrieweather Vice President

Pamela Drayton Recording Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS PO BOX 1852 VOORHEES, NJ 08043

Alphonso Coleman Treasurer

EMAIL GSJCUAA@gmail.com

Camille Gadson Treasurer

MEETINGS EVERY THIRD SUNDAY OF THE MONTH AT 3:00PM

Keturah Jackson Corresponding Secretary

FINANCIAL MEMBERS 76

North Carolina

Chapter Leadesrship Dr. Angela L Harris President

Lauren Contaste Vice President

Michael Grant Recording Secretary

Tasha Tate Treasurer

CHEYNEY UNIVERSITY ALUMNI CHAPTER OF NORTH CAROLINA.

Joseph Edwards Financial Secretary

MAILING ADDRESS PO ox 40595 Raleigh, NC 27629

Dr. Angela L Harris Corresponding Secretary

EMAIL DrAngela.Harris@gmail.com

Arthur Smith Chaplin

MEETINGS QUARTERLY EVERY SECOND SATURDAY AT 2PM (FEBRUARY, JUNE, SEPTEMBER, & DECEMBER FINANCIAL MEMBERS 23

Ozzie Hackett Jr Alumni Caring

Omar Sabir Ballot # 40

Joe Green Ballot # 16

Qawi Abdul-Rahman Ballot # 14

Curt Segers III Ballot # 74