The Educated Mentor: Volume 4, Issue 2 (Fall 2023)

THE EDUCATED

Fall 2023

Volume 4, Issue2

MENTOR

MESSAGE FROM THE CO-FOUNDERS

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As we embrace the vibrant season of Fall, let us draw inspiration from the changing leaves, for they remind us that transformation is a beautiful and inevitable part of life. In the words of Albert Camus, "Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower." Just as each leaf takes on a new hue, so too does our organization flourish and evolve with your unwavering support.

As we bask in the warm hues of Fall, may we also reflect on the changes and growth within our organization. Just as leaves let go, making way for new beginnings, we too will adapt, innovate, and embrace the evolving needs of those we serve. We look forward to continuously sharing our progress with you. Your unwavering commitment to our cause is the driving force behind our mission's success.

This upcoming quarter, we're committed to building on our successes and creating even more meaningful impact. We eagerly anticipate the arrival of our next cohort of ONYX25, the future leaders who will shape the world with their passion and commitment to Black male success.

VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DR. TYMON GRAHAM Board Chair

MR. DEMETRICK COLEMAN Vice Chair/Secretary

Once again, thank you for being the heart of our organization, and we can't wait to see what this new season brings.

In Mentorship,

Dr. Darryl Hylton, Jr. Jamie L. Enge

MS. CORTNEY EDWARDS General Board Member

Dr. Darryl Hylton, Jr., Co-Founder Mr. Jamie Enge, Co-Founder DR. ANITA BLEDSOE-GARDNER General Board Member

DR. JONATHAN FREEMAN

02 Summer 2023 Edition

General Board Member

THE EDUCATED

MENTOR Fall 2023 Edition

featured articles:

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The Importance of Black Male Mental Health: Shining a Light on Depression

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Maximizing Your HBCU Refund Check: Top 5 Tips for Financial Success

10 BEYOND INITIATIVE

LEGACY

04 Philanthropy At-A-Glance

14 Dear Brother,

An overview of our philanthropy from Quarter 1

Receive a Word of Encouragement from Demetrick Coleman

06 National News

Get the latest information from the National Office

09 Amplified Collegiate Black men discuss their first year experience.

The Educated Mentor

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Q4 Philanthropy AT A GLANCE

$1.1k

Acquired in donations

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Total numbers of donors

Darryl Hylton, Jr. Gabriela Torres Gregory A. Dendy, Jr. Joyce Walker Lindsey Nurczyk Marquise McGriff Nadine Spruell

THANK YOU!

0

Gifts were made by organizations/businesses

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Gifts were made by individuals

National News Now searching for ONYX25, Cohort 3 The Collegiate Black Male Network is excited to announce the search for Cohort 3 of ONYX25. If you, or someone you know, would be interested in participating, please complete an application. Applications are now open and can be found here: www.thecbmnetwork.org/onyx25.

Questions? Contact Mr. Dendy at gdendy@thecbmnetwork.org.

Co-Founder, Jamie Enge, and The CBM Network nominated for ‘Brother Mike’ award On August 25th, 2023, Jamie Enge, the Co-Founder and COO of The Collegiate Black Male Network, was nominated for the Brother Mike Award for outstanding mentorship. The Brother Mike Awards were named in honor of the late YOUmedia educator and mentor, Mike Hawkins, and celebrate the inspiring work mentors do daily to lead and guide Chicago's youth with love. As one of thirty nominees, Jamie was invited to attend the annual program hosted by PHENOM, where he had the opportunity to celebrate his contributions to youth development alongside other like-minded organizations. Although Jamie and The Collegiate Black Male Network were not selected as winners, it was a memorable experience to be in the same room with other organizations fighting to remove systemic barriers and help youth of color succeed.

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THE COLLEGIATE BLACK MALE SYMPOSIUM A professional conference experience for the Black men on your campus!

The Collegiate Black Male Network is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to help increase the persistence and graduation rates of collegiate Black men.

THINK ABOUT IT Attending a national conference can be costly with minimal impact. However, with The Collegiate Black Male Symposium, we work with colleges/universities to maximize dollars and increase impact, ultimately providing a transformational experience for staff and students.

WHAT WE OFFER: Student Experience

Faculty/Staff Development

All-Inclusive Package

We offer a variety of leadership sessions centered in increasing awareness of issues affecting Black men in society.

We offer strategy sessions for staff interested in starting or enhancing a Black male initiative or program on campus.

We provide everything you need for an all-inclusive price. That's right! One price covers the entire conference experience.

Our Network of Experts are guaranteed to provide a high-quality service to enhance the overall experience of collegiate Black men on your campus.

LEARN ABOUT THE CBM NETWORK

VISIT WWW.THECBMNETWORK.ORG

SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION EMAIL INFO@THECBMNETWORK.ORG

Amplified "Can You Hear Me Now?!"

Taking on Sophomore Year!

By: Dr. Darryl Hylton

The transition from freshman to sophomore year of college can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. As a freshman, you were just beginning to understand what college life is all about, but as a sophomore, you are now expected to know the ropes. As you move forward, you will set new goals, build on your experiences, and continue growing as a student and individual.

In this segment of Amplified, let’s hear from rising sophomores about their first year experience, what they learned, and their plans for sophomore year.

Jordan Jamieson

Morgan State University Sophomore, Major: Biology, Pre-Med

Starting off at the Illustrious Morgan State University, the transition from high school to college was seemingly rough in retrospect. Although I became immediate close friends with my roommates, I still felt a sense of isolation.

During the beginning of my first semester, I spent the majority of my time in my room, while everyone went out. I felt like I wasn’t going to be accepted.

Eventually, my friends got me to get outside more, and that changed my entire experience. Morgan State University is like a melting pot HBCU. The vast cultures and backgrounds of other students on campus allowed me to explore new things and practices. Spring semester, I was more of an outside person, and although that reflects in my grades, Mr. Gregory Dendy guided me and centered my focus on what's important and taught me about balance. Morgan is home; and for my sophomore year, I look forward to engaging with the community, and engaging with my grades.

Zion McNeely

Norfolk State University Sophomore, Major: Electrical Engineering

As a first-year student I had a lot to learn when I stepped on campus, I was antisocial, sub-conscious of myself, and overall nervous. All I really cared about was getting away from my parents and finally experiencing freedom for the first time. I quickly learned that I had to have some sort of daily routine for myself, one that centered around my classes and going to the gym because that is what I did consistently. I also had to learn how to hold a work-life balance so that I did not fall behind on my work and so I could have fun at the same time. While figuring that balance out, I started to open and see what I wanted to do. I tried to walk-on to Norfolk State’s Baseball team and was unsuccessful, this led to me learning the art of photography and to do events like the Residential Step Show.

Heading into my second year, I look forward to perfecting my work-life balance and making more friends. This will be a vastly unique experience as I am now on the Norfolk State Baseball team and will get to experience college as a student athlete.

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Byram Smith

Norfolk State University Sophomore: Major: Computer Science

Freshman year was a good year to realize what you are going to get yourself into for your entire college career. Being away from home, it can be easy to relax and miss a few assignments without being scolded by your parents, however, you will discover that you must come to the realization that the result of these actions may include being weeks behind in classes, which will lead to you doing things either last minute or trying to email your professor to see if you can submit an assignment pass its due date. In the end, Freshman year was enjoyable, but it also taught me a valuable lesson to better manage my time to ensure I complete assignments on time during the week so I can enjoy myself. I look forward to being more active on campus and to also better myself academically and mentally as a sophomore.

Troy McWilliams

Norfolk State University Sophomore: Major: Exercise Science

Moving on into my sophomore year, I look back at my first year. So many things that could’ve gone well, went wrong. I sprained my ACL while throwing the shot put for the track team, there were family deaths back home, among other personal challenges. But am I ashamed? No. I rejoice in those times during my first year. I learned so many new things about myself, made new friends, brothers, and established a well-rounded reputation on campus. It was everything I expected it to be.

Going into my sophomore year, I want to perform well in my classes, achieving a 3.0 or higher. Additionally, I plan to be more involved on campus and in the community. I recently joined the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Men’s Initiative (where I strive to become Vice President) to continue my goals of mentoring young men across campus and Boy’s and Girl’s clubs. I also plan to break the men’s indoor shot-put record for the second time by throwing over 47 feet in the 2024 Middle Eastern Athletic Conference Championship.

Russell Jackson

Morgan State University Sophomore, Major: Political Science and Philosophy

My Experience as a freshman was wonderful. At the beginning of my freshman year, I was a bit nervous about meeting new people but that quickly changed. I was able to make new friends quickly and I was able to equip a job on campus with no issues. I also enjoyed the classes I took during my freshman year but I can admit it was a struggle getting to class because it was on the other side of campus. I also considered the fact that crime is an issue but it was rare to see it on campus. But overall, I really enjoyed my experience on campus. For my sophomore year, I am looking forward to having a 4.0 for the fall and spring semester and because I’m an RA, for my residents to have academic success and can keep moving forward.

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A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Dear Brother

"So if you really aim to be a melanated mastermind, KNOW your self and the rest is already done."

-Demetrick Coleman.

A Word of Encouragement

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Dear Brother, The KNOW(ledge) must go on!

While many celebrated the lives and contributions Black people have made across the world from February 1st through the 28th, I am a firm believer in continuing the celebration of OUR people.

With the attack on cultural education and the War on CRT going on, it’s more important now than ever that we learn ALL we can about African American History. It’s also imperative that we DO all we can to continue a legacy of Black Excellence our ancestors started centuries ago! We have to!

Don’t get me wrong, I know to many people history is boring. I get it. It’s his-story, but our stories are captivating, inspiring, motivating, and reminders that WE as a people, as a culture, are ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. We literally do the most, but history books won’t tell our truths better than we can. So I encourage you to read something, write something, and say something for the greater good of our people. We can do this. We are better together.

For those of you thinking how can you help the movement, here’s where you jump in.

K Keep the progress going. You may not be where you desire to be just yet. You’re human. Give yourself the necessary grace and PAUSE when needed, but be persistent! Our ancestors are if persistence was a person, so it’s in US to keep pushing!

N No excuses allowed. Set a goal for yourself and work at it until it’s done or until it’s no longer a goal.

IT WILL BE HARD, but it can be done. Find out if someone’s already laid the blueprint and build your destiny, fam!

O Own your strengths. Find out what they are and USE the gifts you have. If you braid, be the best braider with the BEST customer service. If you sing, work on those songs until you can sing them backwards. We all have strengths and different abilities. If we find out what they are, perfect them like Kobe did, like Cecily did, and all the other legends that are no longer with us.

W Work with a purpose. Life’s too short to just “free fall” when you’re possessed with melanin. We work different. We think different. We are different, but we ALL must work with a purpose!

So if you really aim to be a melanated mastermind, KNOW your self and the rest is already done.

Your Brother,

Demetrick Coleman Demetrick Coleman Kentucky State University ‘13

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Stigma: Stigma surrounding mental health The Importance of Black Male 1.remains a significant barrier for many Mental Health: Shining a individuals, but it can be particularly pronounced in the Black community. Fear of Light on Depression By: Jamie Enge In the heart of a bustling city, there lived a man named Marcus. Tall and strong, with a warm smile that used to light up rooms, Marcus had always been the pillar of strength for his friends and family. He was the kind of guy who could fix anything, from a broken car to a broken heart. But what others saw as a mentor, friend, loved one, fixer, Marcus had been struggling with something he couldn't fix on his own – depression.

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being that affects people from all walks of life, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status. However, for Black men in particular, the importance of addressing mental health issues, especially depression, cannot be overstated. There are unique challenges that Black men face in terms of mental health, with a specific focus on depression, and discuss the significance of breaking down barriers to seeking help and support.

Depression is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest in various ways, including persistent sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, and even physical symptoms. Unfortunately, depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated in Black men, leading to a silent and potentially devastating struggle. Several factors contribute to the unique challenges Black men encounter when it comes to addressing mental health issues, including depression:

being seen as weak or "less than" can discourage Black men from seeking help.

2. Cultural Norms: Cultural norms and expectations can play a role in how Black men perceive and express their emotional struggles. The pressure to be stoic and strong can deter them from discussing their mental health concerns openly.

3. Socioeconomic Disparities: Black men often face systemic socioeconomic disparities that can contribute to stress and anxiety, which can, in turn, increase the risk of depression. These disparities may include limited access to quality healthcare, higher rates of unemployment, and disparities in education.

4. Racial Trauma: Experiences of racial discrimination and racial trauma can have a profound impact on mental health. Black men may face discrimination in various aspects of their lives, leading to increased stress and emotional distress.

The Importance of Seeking Help Addressing depression in Black men holds significant importance for various compelling reasons. Firstly, seeking help for depression plays a pivotal role in enhancing emotional and psychological well-being. It empowers individuals to cultivate effective coping strategies, gain valuable insights into their personal struggles, and establish supportive networks to aid their recovery.

Furthermore, when we actively encourage Black men to seek assistance for their mental health concerns, it nurtures a culture of openness and support within their communities. This, in turn, contributes to The Educated Mentor

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dismantling the harmful stigma often associated with mental health, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Additionally, untreated depression can lead to severe physical health consequences, such as an elevated risk of chronic diseases and a compromised immune system. Addressing depression is, therefore, a crucial step towards overall better health. Moreover, Black men who openly share their mental health journeys and actively seek help serve as inspirational role models. Their personal narratives can instill hope and motivation in others who are grappling with similar challenges, encouraging them to seek assistance and embark on their paths to recovery.

It is imperative to recognize and confront the distinctive hurdles they confront, including the stigma surrounding mental health, cultural norms, socioeconomic disparities, and the enduring impact of racial trauma. In order to make meaningful progress, we must actively work towards dismantling these barriers to seeking help. This entails fostering open and candid conversations about mental health, thereby paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive society. It is essential to empower Black men to prioritize their mental well-being without reservation.

In embracing this mission, we not only enhance the mental health of Black men but also contribute to the overall health and vitality of our communities. By creating an environment where all individuals, regardless of their background, can thrive mentally and emotionally, we take a significant step towards a brighter, more equitable future for everyone.

Maximizing Your HBCU Refund Check: Top 5 Tips for Financial Success By: Dr. Darryl Hylton Attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a life-changing experience that offers countless opportunities for personal and academic growth. However, navigating the financial aspect of college can be a significant challenge for many students. One crucial aspect of managing your finances as an HBCU student is effectively and efficiently using your refund check. In this article, we will explore the importance of HBCU college students making the most of their refund checks and provide the top five tips for budget and finance management.

The Importance of Refund Checks for HBCU Students Before we delve into the tips, let’s understand why refund checks matter so much for HBCU students. A refund check typically occurs when the financial aid and scholarships you receive exceed the cost of tuition, fees, and other direct educational expenses. This surplus amount is issued to you, and it can be a significant sum of money. Here’s why making the most of it is crucial: 1. Covering Living Expenses: HBCU students often face additional living expenses, such as housing, food, transportation, and textbooks.

Refund checks can help offset these costs, making it easier for students to focus on their studies without worrying about basic necessities.

2. Reducing Student Loan Debt: By using your refund check wisely, you can reduce the need to take out additional loans. This can

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lead to lower student debt burdens after graduation, providing more financial freedom and less stress.

3. Building Financial Responsibility: Managing a refund check is an opportunity to develop financial responsibility and budgeting skills. These skills will serve you well not only during your college years but throughout your life.

Now, let’s explore the top five tips for effectively managing your refund check as an HBCU student.

Tip 1: Create a Detailed Budget The foundation of responsible financial management is a well-thought-out budget.

Start by listing all your expected income sources, including your refund check, any part-time job earnings, and any financial support from family. Then, list all your expected expenses, from rent and groceries to textbooks and transportation. Be as detailed as possible. Once you have a clear picture of your income and expenses, create a budget that allocates funds to cover all essential costs. Don’t forget to include savings as part of your budget; even a small portion of your refund check set aside for emergencies or future goals can make a big difference.

Tip 2: Prioritize Needs Over Wants As a college student, it’s essential to distinguish between needs and wants.

Needs are those expenses that are necessary for your well-being and academic success, such as housing, utilities, and textbooks.

Wants, on the other hand, are non-essential expenses like dining out, entertainment, and luxury items. While it’s okay to treat yourself occasionally, prioritize your needs over your

wants when allocating your refund check.

Ensuring that your essential expenses are covered will provide financial security and reduce the risk of running out of money before the semester ends.

Tip 3: Explore Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities HBCU students often have access to various financial aid and scholarship opportunities beyond their initial award packages. Explore these options to maximize your financial assistance. This can include applying for scholarships offered by your school, local organizations, or national foundations that support HBCU students.

Additionally, consider work-study programs that allow you to earn money while gaining valuable work experience on campus. Every additional dollar you can secure through scholarships or part-time work will reduce your reliance on your refund check and loans.

Tip 4: Be Cautious with Credit Cards Credit cards can be a helpful financial tool, but they can also lead to debt if not used wisely. If you choose to have a credit card, be cautious about carrying a balance and accumulating interest charges. Use your credit card for essential expenses and emergencies only, and always pay off the balance in full each month to avoid interest.

Remember that your refund check should primarily be used to cover your educational and living expenses, not to fund a lifestyle beyond your means.

Overall, remember that responsible financial management is a skill that will serve you well beyond your college years. By following these top five tips, you can set yourself on a path to financial stability and success as an HBCU student.

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Article Submission Are you looking for opportunities to publish? For our upcoming quarterly journals, we seek individuals to share their knowledge, expertise, and experience with The Collegiate Black Male Network community. Please see below for Volume 4 deadlines.

Deadline for Articles Issue

Deadline

Published

Fall 2023

August 31, 2023

October 1, 2023

Winter 2023

November 30, 2023

January 1, 2024

Spring 2024

February 28, 2024

April 1, 2024

Summer 2024

May 31, 2021

July 1, 2024

For more information on submission criteria, visit www.thecbmnetwork.org/theeducatedmentor

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For more information The Collegiate Black Male Network: info@thecbmnetwork.org