The Educated Mentor: Volume 2, Issue 2 (Fall 2021)

THE EDUCATED

FALL 2021

Volume 2, Issue 2

MENTOR

MESSAGE FROM THE CO-FOUNDERS

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Entering a new season always provides a refreshing perspective.

Our new season incorporated a major update which was the change of our name. Even though it wasn't necessarily what we felt as the most convenient time, it was the best time. Being in the early stages of our organization's development, it’s a bittersweet moment to be going through something as major as a name change. Being a newer organization with a sudden change of name made us anxious because we were unsure how the public would react. We work tirelessly to build this organization with intention and integrity and we want to ensure our community of supporters see the hard work we put in daily.

One thing we've learned on this journey is no matter the obstacle, there is an opportunity to learn.

If the past two years have taught us nothing else, it has taught us how to reflect, pivot, and grow. We have reflected on who we are and the impact we want to make as an organization, pivoted to increase engagement with supporters and donors, and last but not least grown in numerous ways to begin creating a legacy that we can all be proud of.

As you read Volume 2, Issue 2 of our publication, you will see contributors share their points of reflections, pivots, and growth as well as the legacy, pride, and tradition that grounds them in who they are.

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 2 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Dr. Darryl Hylton, Jr. CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Jamie L. Enge JOURNAL EDITOR Dr. Darryl Hylton, Jr. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Timmy Bridgeman Joshua Cole Qu'Derrick Covington Javion Cox Jamie Enge Dr. Jarrelle Harris Dr. Darryl Hylton Caleb Shaw-Watson Garren Walker FRONT COVER @relnicephotography BACK COVER @antunltd

Until next time,

Dr. Darryl Hylton, Jr. Jamie L. Enge

Dr. Darryl Hylton, Jr. & Mr. Jamie Enge Co-Founders

The Educated Mentor is the official publication of The Collegiate Black Male Network published four times a year. For any questions or feedback regarding the publication, please contact us at info@thecbmnetwork.org Stay connected with us: 'Like' us on Facebook: facebook.com/thecbmnetwork Follow us on Instagram: @thecbmnetwork

Follow us on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/thecbmnetwork

02 Fall 2021 Edition

thecbmnetwork.org

THE EDUCATED

MENTOR

volume 2, issue 2

12 BEYOND INITIATIVE

LEGACY

04 Philanthropy At-A-Glance

12 The Mentor Spotlight

An overview of our philanthropy from Quarter 1

06 National News

Get the latest information from the National Office

Recognizing Trailblazer, Qu'Derrick Covington

16 Dear Brother, Receive a Word of Celebration from Dr. Jarrelle Harris

08 Amplified Students share their perspective on one thing that helped them succeed in college

The Educated Mentor

03

Q1 Philanthropy AT A GLANCE

$2.6K+ Acquired in donations

19

Total numbers of donors

#CLUB250 Donors DaQuan Love Doc Dillard Gregory Dendy, Jr. Lindsey Nurczyk Marquise McGriff Nadine Spruell Nathan Anthony Noreen Spruell Shavell Rodgers Tiffannie Jones

General Donors Anonymous Darryl Hylton, Jr. Donovan Perry Jamie Enge Jaron Dawson Jermaine Washington Michael Shaw Rhuna Holley Tara Williams

THANK YOU!

1

Gifts were made by organizations/businesses

18

Gifts were made by individuals

National News New Name. Same Mission. Still Impacting Lives.

Over the past 12 months, members of the Board of Directors have been working to build and protect the name and its brand of the organization. When given the opportunity to file a formal trademark application to establish a strong brand identity, the organization was presented with a comprehensive search of other organizations with similar names and missions. The results of the search determined that there was another organization with an active registered trademark.

Consequently, Operation G.R.A.D, Inc. stood a high chance of being denied by the USPTO due to the likelihood of confusion.

On July 7, 2021, Vice Chair/Secretary, Dr. T.M. Graham, scheduled an emergency board meeting with then sitting Board members to discuss changing the name. Upon the recommendation of co-founders, Dr. Darryl and Jamie, a unanimous board decision was made to change the name to The Collegiate Black Male Network. As of August 4, 2021, the Articles of Amendment was approved and filed by the Illinois Secretary of State’s office making the change official.

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Welcome to the Team!

On behalf of The CBM Network, we would like to welcome two new members to our team--Mr. Gregory Dendy and Mr. D'Andra Drewitt!

A native of Washington, DC, Gregory A. Dendy, Jr. is our inaugural Director of National Programs. As the oldest of 6 siblings, it has always been his mission to raise the standards of excellence and achievement for all of those around him.

In this fashion, he has committed his life to the work of Higher Education.

Having obtained two bachelors’ from Fisk University in Sociology & Political Science and a Masters of Divinity from Vanderbilt University, he has set his life's goal on becoming a Student Affairs Professional. One mantra he likes to live by says, "I made it through yesterday; Today I find out why." Currently he is in the process of obtaining his doctorate in Higher Education Administration at Morgan State University. As the Director of National Programs, he hopes to make an impact in the overall success for African American men as much as possible.

D’Andra Drewitt is our inaugural Social Media Coordinator. A 2015 graduate of thee Elizabeth City State University, earning his Bachelors Degree in Communications, Mr. Drewitt’s education and talent led him to founding his own media company offering photography, video and consulting services. Working behind the camera, his motto is “Grow, Create, Inspire.” He believes personal growth leads to creativity and creativity leads to inspiration. Mr. Drewitt has been blessed to work with various universities, commercial brands, celebrities and a host of black-owned businesses as the liaison for helping these entities curate quality content for their brand and constituents. The CBM Network allows Mr. Drewitt to not only provide his creative services but also aids in his humanitarian beliefs and objectives. As a proud father, he knows the important of cultivating a strong foundation and producing resources centered around the growth and development of our Black men in today’s society.

The CBM Network parterns with CBeyond Enterprises for Onyx 25 Program The Collegiate Black Male Network is please to announce its partnership with CBeyond Enterprises as a part of our Onyx 25: 25 Under 25 Recognition and Leadership Program.

Onyx 25: 25 Under 25 Recognition & Leadership program celebrates AfricanAmerican college students across the nation who have proven themselves as role models for their respective campus and community while supporting them in taking their talent to the next level. Students are nominated based on their achievement in one of the following areas: Arts & Humanities, Business, Education, STEM, and Human & Social Science.

Upon acceptance into the program, participants will engage in two 6-week experiences as a cohort focused on the areas of career readiness and professional mentoring. By the end of the program students will: 1. Be Recognized for their outstanding academic and community involvement; 2. Receive coaching that develops transferable career readiness skills through leadership and professional development workshops; 3. Engage in inclusive spaces to practice skills learned in the program; and 4. Network with corporate talent management and professional mentors for various career opportunities.

To learn more about Onyx 25, visit www.thecbmnetwork.org/onyx25 The Educated Mentor

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Amplified "Can You Hear Me Now?!"

It's HOMECOMING Y'all!

By: Dr. Darryl Hylton

Student involvement is revered to be an essential part of the collegiate experience. Studies have shown that students involved in at least one club/organization is more likely to persist towards graduation as compared to students who are not involved at all. However, there is one major event that engages all students regardless of club/organization affiliation (especially at Historically Black Colleges/Universities) and that is homecoming season.

Homecoming is considered the "family reunion" for the college/university. On Homecoming day, much of the excitement for the day is created by the anticipation of the homecoming game, halftime show, and the tailgate. Last year, many students and alumni missed out on the opportunity to celebrate Black excellence.

But, this year, even if some campuses are modifying the experience, homecoming is back in action! In this homecoming edition of Amplified, students share what homecoming means on their respective campus.

Joshua Cole

Senior, Howard University

"Homecoming at Howard University means everyone put on their best outfits and join together in a time of celebration of being a student at a historically black university. It is a time when alumni come back and celebrate with former classmates, teachers leave their classrooms and join the students for great music on the yard, and parents fly from their hometowns to visit their college students, who they just left a few months ago. My first homecoming is something I'll never forget. Although it rained, My favorite memory was seeing Kim Kardashian and Kanye West on our yard during Sunday service. I also enjoyed the Black YouTube FanFest, where Howard invited many famous black YouTubers and we got hilarious behind-the-scenes content with some of our favorite stars. Experiencing this with my classmates is something that I'll never forget, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to attend the best HBCU in the country."

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“Where the eagles soar high and the moss hangs low”, Tougaloo College is such a beautiful, historic space for young scholars to excel to unimaginable heights. Once a year, Tougaloo College alumni who have spread their wings and soared beyond our beloved Eagle Queen, return to the nest to fellowship with their family. With them comes infinite wisdom and an abundance of joy as they share their own stories about their time at our institution as well as their experiences since their departure. The unbreakable bonds that we form with one another and our alumni truly define the familial culture of our institution.

From this, young eaglets such as I gain valuable connections and experience the great legacy that is Tougaloo College. We look forward to continuing our scholarship and contributions to society to one day return and be the beacons of light for others that have guided us along our own journeys.

Timmy Bridgeman Senior, Tougaloo College

Caleb Shaw-Watson Sophomore, Bowie State University

Homecoming at my HBCU, Bowie State University is the epitome of Black excellence amongst current and former students. It is a reunion where we all come together and celebrate our accomplishments as a family. A full week of love, joy, and celebrating how far we have come not only as an institution, but as an entire race. Homecoming is if the saying, “We made it!” were a person.

Individuals from all walks of life return to their stomping grounds and spread love and knowledge to us, the younger generations that are walking in their footsteps. It was not that long ago when African-Americans were forbidden to attend college.

Not only are we surpassing standards but, we are setting them as well with graduating at the top of our classes, making our marks in the field of our choice and beating all the odds that were set against us.

Homecoming at Bowie State University is not just a week of events and a football game, it is a celebration of our ability to fight, overcome, and win. Homecoming is a reunion commemorating those who walked before us and a proof that no mountain is too high when family comes together and sticks together.

Before I ever took my first steps onto an HBCU campus I knew about the homecoming experience. From the games, tailgates, the yard, greeks strolling, and vendors everywhere it was something I knew I wanted to participate in. As a Houston native, Texas Southern University was the place to be. Being a part of the lost class of 2020, I didn’t receive a prom or graduation along with this, many first college experiences were lost as well due to covid including homecoming. So, when asked the question “What does Homecoming at my university mean to me?” My response is Hope! Hope that this pandemic is slowly but surely fading away and we can continue in our lives without the worry of a virus.

Homecoming at my university also means family. As per most HBCUs, Texas Southern University’s homecoming is a time for students, faculty, and alumni alike to come together by the bonds of their Javion D. Cox tiger family pride.

Sophomore, Texas Southern University

Garren Walker

Senior, Fort Valley State University

As I reflect on Homecoming at Fort Valley State, my heart is filled with immense joy and memories begin to flood my mind. It is a time where people travel from near and far with one common goal in mind: to enjoy each other in true wildcat spirit. The camaraderie on campus that is shared between students, faculty, staff, and alumni during Homecoming Week and beyond is one that comes second to none. Homecoming is a time to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and prepare for the future. The thing I look forward to most this year is seeing and meeting all past SGA Presidents and informing them of the things that my administration has done thus far.

As the campus reflects on its historic accomplishments and promising future, all members of the Fort Valley State Family to visit campus and celebrate all things FVSU. FVSU continues to thrive under the leadership of our 10th President, Dr. Paul Jones The Educated Mentor

09

Modified September 25th

October 2nd

Saint Augustine's University

Bowie State University Central State University Mississippi Valley State University Texas Southern University

l l i 'it s st

HOMEC October 9th

October 16th

Alabama A&M University Alabama State University Albany State University Bethune-Cookman University Bluefield State College Hampton University Kentucky State University Livingstone College Miles College Virginia Union University

Fayetteville State University Grambling State University Jackson State University Langston University Lincoln University (PA) Morehouse College Norfolk State University Savannah State University South Carolina State University University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff West Virginia State University

or cancelled . . .

October 23rd

Delaware State University Edward Waters College Elizabeth City State University Fort Valley State University Howard University Morgan State University Shaw University Southern University Tuskegee University Virginia State University Winston-Salem State University

November 6th

Florida Memorial University North Carolina Central University

November 13th

Fisk University University of Maryland Eastern Shore University of the District of Columbia

OMING COMING Szn October 30th

Harris-Stowe State University Clark Atlanta University Florida A&M University Johnson C. Smith University North Carolina A&T State University Tennessee State University

November 20th Claflin University

the mentor By: Dr. Darryl Hylton

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Each quarter, The Collegiate Black Male Network (formally Operation G.R.A.D, Inc.) highlights an influential person who is also changing the field of mentoring. This quarter, we are highlighting Mr. Qu'Derrick Covington who has proven himself in more ways than one that his influence and reach is truly making an impact.

Tell us a little about your background, who you are, where you're from, etc. ·I am a good ol’ southern boy from Fayetteville, NC, where you can get a good Sunday plate from Grandma’s house after church that included Fried Chicken, Yams, collards greens/mustard greens, and rice and gravy. Let’s not forget the big pitcher of homemade lemonade and sweet tea. Coming from poverty and a single (mom) parent household, which I’ll never forget and having the opportunity to attend Fayetteville State University and in Spring 2015 became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc and serving on the fraternity’s national board of directors as the 59th Southern Regional Assistant Vice President, all while obtaining my Bachelor of Social Work that allowed me to become the first-generation college student in the family. I stop there because I felt like I had to continue to break generational curses for males of color, so I went on to THE Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and obtained by Master of Science. You don’t find many males of color with terminal degrees and sitting at tables of your counterparts, so I am currently attending Howard University pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy.

What does mentorship mean to you?

I strongly believe everyone needs some type of mentorship or have had some type of mentorship.

Now don’t get me wrong everyone isn’t equipped to be a mentor. However, I do believe it’s a lifelong friendship and partnership depending on the relationship formed. Mentorship is being able to receive and provide influence, guidance, and/or direction given by a mentor/mentee whether personal or professional. You can have more than one mentor. You can always learn something from somebody whether they are doing something good or bad. Mentorship is never free. You must have an expectation of what you want out of the mentorship and never take a person’s time for granted.

Who are the mentors (if any) that have had the most significant influence on you? What was the best piece of advice they gave you? ·The mentor that had the greatest influence on me was Dr. James Christopher Ellerbe. At the time, he was my school principal. I was the no vision, no focus, and disruptive kid in school. I believe I was in his office at least 2 to 3 times a day. One day, Dr. Ellerbe was like enough is enough. He placed me in front of a mirror and asked me “Who are you? “What are you plans for the future?” As I’m answering his questions, he didn’t like the answers I was providing and stopped me right there. He proceeded to say that is what history and previous teachers told you who you are. That’s not who you are. He then proceeds to say something around the lines of “Be the person who breaks the cycle. If you were judged, choose understanding. If you were rejected, choose acceptance. If you were shamed, choose compassion. Be the person you needed when you were hurting, not the person who hurt you. Vow to be better and prove folks wrong.

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Fall 2021 Edition

Tell us a little bit about your work at The Tulsa Initiative?

The Tulsa Initiative Inc came about because research has shown that males of color the lack of access than those of their counterparts and to answer two essential questions: How can males of color understand the value of circulating the Black dollar in the black communities? How can males of color create unity to invest in themselves? We created the roadmap with the millennials and Generational Z in mind and designed it as a global digital leadership and entrepreneurship program. We are cultivating minds to change lives by addressing the economic gap between young men of color and their counterparts through building generational wealth when it comes down to entrepreneurial ownership.

What attracted you to doing the work you are currently doing?

Studies has shown that new starting entrepreneurs often face challenges, including lack of access to capital, investment, and business opportunities, inadequate business networks for peer support, and the absence of essential skills necessary to lead a business to succeed and grow. Minority entrepreneurs often face even greater barriers. There are several obstacles that create the lack of access to capital and impede Black and Brown American’s business ownership and financial success in terms of credit worthiness, institutional discrimination, social capital deficit, limited managerial & industry experience, and operating in lower-revenue industries.

What has been the most rewarding experience working with young black males?

The most rewarding experience working with males of color 18 to 24 years old with The Tulsa Initiative Inc is being able to see their growth development and the steps and progression made to expand and grow their business after they have participated in our Tulsa Leadership & Entrepreneurship Academy (TLEA), is a results-based entrepreneurship program for young Black men. The program focuses on building safe and supportive community for young men of color where they feel valued and have clear pathways to opportunity. A cohort of 10 men (ages 18-24) follow a 7-week curriculum, which teaches entrepreneurial mindsets and skills in a wide variety of settings. At the end of the program, participants are invited to pitch live in our Tulsa Pitch Competition program.

What specific advice would you give those individuals who are looking to mentor Black men? ·One specific advice that I would give those individuals who are looking to mentor black men or mentor in general is that mentorship is a two-way relationship. You must be able to learn from the mentee and the mentee must be able to learn from you. Understand that the advice you give can change the trejectory of another young man’s life.

To learn more and support The Tulsa Initiative visit their website www.tulsanonprofit.org and/or follow them on social media.

The Educated Mentor

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DEAR BROTHER

A WORD OF EMPOWERMENT BY: DR. JARRELLE HARRIS

Dear Brother A Word of Empowerment

"Some people have it all figured out and others need a little bit more time to get it together. I’m here to tell you to fight to the end and never give up."

- Dr. Jarrelle Harris

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Dear Brother, As a young adult, let me be the first to tell you that not having all the answers is okay. You don’t have to know what you want to do 10 years down the line, but if you do, you also have the power to change your mind and do something else if you so desire. Keep in mind, if there are multiple things that you want to do with your life, you don’t have to limit yourself to only accomplishing one of those goals…do it all! I pity the mouse that only has one hole to go in.

The opportunities are endless so take full advantage.

I had no idea what I initially wanted to do with my life or what profession I wanted to see myself in when I applied to North Carolina A&T State University. The only thing that I was sure of was making the drumline at the university and becoming a member of the Blue & Gold Marching Machine. That’s it. That was my goal. Little did I know, this goal would link me to a new network of friends and family, reshape my thinking and eventually guide me toward the path of success at A&T. I switched my major three different times during my undergraduate years in order to find the right fit and it took me more than the normal four years to graduate from college with my bachelor’s degree.

Dropping out of school my sophomore year of college was one of the hardest things I endured. I thought it was over for me. I thought there was no coming back. I began to doubt myself as I saw my friends continue their education, get involved in the community and campus activities and eventually go on to graduate and start their careers. Despite the feeling of being left behind, through conversations with friends and my mentor Dr. Kennth Ruff, I realized that I still had time to make things right and get back on the right path.

Through hard work and perseverance, I re-enrolled at the university and graduated with my bachelors in business. Reaching that milestone in my life set me on a new path to gain more education and experience. I never thought in a million years that I would later go on to receive a masters degree and then graduate from a doctoral program.

Tupac Shakur once said, “If you can make it through the night, there’s a brighter day…” Some people have it all figured out and others need a little bit more time to get it together. I’m here to tell you to fight to the end and never give up.

Your Brother,

Dr. Jarrelle Harris

Dr. Jarrelle Harris North Carolina A&T State University '13, '15 Gardner-Webb University '21

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Fall 2021 Edition

ONYX 25

25 UNDER 25 RECOGNITION & LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Celebrating African-American male undergraduate students across the nation who have proven themselves as role models for their campus and community while supporting them in taking their talents to the next level. Students are nominated based on their achievement in one of the following areas: Arts & Humanities, Business, Education, STEM, Human & Social Science.

BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAM:

Recognition

Development

Engagement

Networking

We recognize participants for their outstanding academic and community achievements

We help coach and develop transferable career readiness skills through leadership and professional development workshops

We create inclusive spaces for participants practice transferable skills learned in the program.

We help connect participants with corporate talent management for various career opportunities.

OTHER INCENTIVES INCLUDE: CERTIFICATE OF OFFICIAL SPECIAL FEATURE IN DISCOUNTED ENTRY INTO OUR VOUCHER FOR PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION ONYX 25 LAPEL PIN THE EDUCATED MENTOR NATIONAL CONFERENCE CLOTHING ITEMS* *subject to funding

Apply Today!

Are you ready to be nationally recognized for your accomplishments and receive coaching to enhance your skillset even further? The CBM Network is looking for individuals to be a part of the inaugural cohort of Onyx 25.

Scan the QR code to submit your application today!

For more information contact Mr. Gregory Dendy gdendy@thecbmnetwork.org

HE'S WORTH THE INVESTMENT . . .

$5/mo

$10/mo

$15/mo

General Support

Cultural Excursions

Post-Graduate Success

This monthly gift provides general support to helping advance the overall mission and goals of the organization.

This monthly gift will allow students to connect experience to culture by exposing them to historical landmarks rooted in the Black diaspora.

This monthly gift will aid students in preparing for life after graduation.

WILL YOU COMMIT TO visit www.thecbmnet

.. .. .. and and Your Your Gift Gift Makes Makes The The Difference.

Difference. $20/mo

$25/mo

Suit A Scholar

Emergency Fund

Create Your Own Gift

This monthly gift provides professional attire for students within the program.

This monthly gift will support students who may be experiencing hardship.

Interested in supporting one (or more) causes with your own specialized gift? This option will allow you to do just that!

MAKE A DIFFERENCE? work.org/givenow

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