Ovations Spring/Summer 2018

Spring/Summer 2018

The Valdry Center How a family of SU alumni is helping to innovate giving IN THIS

ISSUE:

Eleven-year-old

SULC alum head

SUNO receives

SUSLA grant

accepted to SU

of AG division

NSF STEM grant

to aid veterans

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MISSIon The valdry center for philanthropy is an academically based center focused on philanthropic studies and nonprofit management. vcp seeks to educate the socially conscious student, volunteer, and practitioner in the emerging field of philanthropic studies, through exploring the economic, historical, and philosophical rationales for voluntary action in the local, national, and international arenas.

VCP is guided by focusing on its seven strands of work: degree programs social entrepreneurship Faith programming seminar and certificate programs customized Nonprofit capacity Building educational Initiatives Research

VISIT uS onlIne @ vcp.sus.edu oR scan the QR code to leARn or GIVe ToDAY!

FROM THE PRESIDENT-CHANCELLOR Greetings, Much progress has occurred since you last read the pages of this publication. Southern is on the move in a variety of ways, and this issue of Ovations summarizes it beautifully. As you flip through the pages, know that we have one common goal: to continue to shape the Southern University System into a world-class institution.

For more than a century, we have had great partners who believe in Southern’s continued mission of providing higher education that is equitable, accessible, and excellent. One of our current partners is the SU Futures Commission. This commission is a national think thank comprised of some of the most brilliant minds in higher education, government relations, business, and more.

Powered by the Thurgood Marshall Foundation and Gallup Research, this group meets often to discuss and advise on the attributes and resources that will keep Southern at the forefront of education for another century and beyond. Some of the items you will read about in this issue are prime examples of those attributes. Inarguably, one of the most valuable is our alumni.

Our alumni consistently display the talent, creativity, determination, and goodwill that have been shaped by their experience at Southern. As you will read in our cover story, the Valdry family has long given back to their alma mater in major ways, but their latest gift tops them all: The Valdry Center for Philanthropy. Their gift to build this center on our Baton Rouge land mass will ensure that a culture of giving goes far beyond a check book. Students will now be able to earn degrees to further their careers and reach in the nonprofit sector and similar fields. It will also be a gem in the grand scheme of our capital city’s economic development and philanthropic efforts.

Another family of alumni, the Claytons, has also gifted the University with a structure that is much more than meets the eye. The Tony Clayton Championship Plaza is made possible by a gift from Tony and Paula Clayton. Proceeds yielded from personalized features in the plaza will directly benefit our student-athletes.

Our largest alumni family, the Southern University Alumni Federation, continues to make strides to ensure the longevity and success our beloved institution. Ground has been broken on the site for an alumni center and new student housing. Continuous gifts and engagement from thousands of alumni around the world ensure that Southern reaches and surpasses its goals and aspirations.

I do hope you enjoy reading these features and other items of interest in this issue. As always, I look forward to your feedback and collaborative efforts to advance the Southern University System.

Sincerely,

Ray L. Belton, President-Chancellor Southern University System

SPRING/SUMMER 1 OVATIONS 2018

SOUTHERN OVATIONS UNIVERSITY 1

SU System Magazine

SU System Commencements Highlights.................................................................. 3

SU System President-Chancellor Ray L. Belton

Eleven-year-old prodigy commits to Southern University........................................ 9

SU System Board of Supervisors 2017 Ann A. Smith, Chair Donald R. Henry, Vice Chair John Barthelemy Jr. Tony M. Clayton Leroy Davis Raymond M. Fondel Jr. Curman L. Gaines Joe R. Gant Jr. Richard T. Hilliard Xavieria Jeffers Patrick D. Magee Domoine D. Rutledge Michael A. Small Leon R. Tarver II Samuel C. Tolbert Rani G. Whitfield SU System Chancellors Ray L. Belton, SUBR Rodney Ellis, SUSLA Lisa Mims-Devezin, SUNO Bobby R. Phills, SUAREC John Pierre, SULC Publisher Southern University System

Southern University Shreveport celebrates 50 years.............................................. 11 Southern wins $40K campus improvement grant from Home Depot..................... 19 Southern partners with BRCC to increase number of STEM graduates.................. 19 SUNO receives $1.2M NSF grant to produce STEM teachers................................. 27 COVER STORY: University breaks ground on new philanthropy center........................................... 28 SU System launches #WeAreSouthern branding campaign.................................. 38 Southern University announces 5-year apparel deal with Under Armour, BSN Sports............................................................................ 46 Leading tech company opens in New Orleans; higher ed receives $25M............... 47 SU Alumni Fed. to break ground on new student apartments, alumni center......... 54

Editor Janene Tate Copy Editors Jasmine Hunter Henry Tillman Robyn M. Merrick Contributors Tammy Barney Jasmine Hunter Christopher Jones Lakeesha Giddens Lusk Sherrie Rhodes Janene Tate Henry Tillman Copy and photos from SU Ag Center Office of Technology and Communications SUBR Office of Communications SUBR Athletics SUSLA Office of Communications SUSLA Graphic Services SUNO Public Relations SU Alumni Affairs SULC Office of Communications and Development Support Cassandra Washington Jesse H. Spland D’Andre Lee Photography N. John Oubre III Pre-press and Printing Emprint/Moran Printing

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On the Cover

The Valdry Center, slated for completion by early 2019, is an academically based research center focused on philanthropic studies and nonprofit management. The center seeks to educate the socially conscious student, volunteer, and practitioner in the emerging field of philanthropic studies through exploring the economic, historical, and philosophical rationales for voluntary action in the local, national, and international arenas. Programming for the degree in philanthropic studies — to be awarded by Southern’s Nelson Mandela School of Government and Social Sciences — will begin this fall.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SU SYSTEM COMMENCEMENTS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY BATON ROUGE

SU Commencement speaker wants graduates to ‘be the change’

Ray L. Belton (left), president-chancellor of the SU System, with a Spring 2018 graduate.

Angela Rye, political commentator and social activist, was the keynote speaker for the Spring 2018 Commencement at Southern University Baton Rouge.

“Will your degree serve you or will you use your degree to serve others?” Angela Rye asked more than 650 eager Southern University graduates.

With smiling faces and teary eyes, the candidates soaked up their final moments. As names were called, family and friends burst into excitement with screams, laughter, and other sentiments.

Rye, political commentator and social activist, was the keynote speaker for the University’s spring commencement May 11, 2018, in the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

The ceremony was presided by Ray L. Belton, president-chancellor of the Southern University System, and James Ammons, executive vice president/executive vice chancellor. The chief student marshal was Kayla Clancy. The Chicago native graduated with a degree in psychology and a 3.862 cumulative grade point average. (see story page 4)

“My responsibility to you today is ‘truth,’ said Rye, who can be seen regularly on several media outlets including CNN, MSNBC, and TV One. “My responsibility to you today is ensuring you are adequately equipped to survive in a 2018 America… and in the America we create together for the future.”

The political strategist went on to convey that she had a message for the graduates. Her message was to “wake them up” before they become bogged down by society’s obstacles.

“We cannot keep talking about the problems, and not playing our respective parts to change them,” Rye said. “Be the change.

Be courageous. Be bold, like your lives, our lives, depend on it because they do. Create the community you know we can be.

Create the country you deserve to see. Create the world in which you want to live.”

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The spring graduating class includes 419 undergraduate candidates and 198 graduate candidates. The class had 137 honor graduates, (one summa cum laude, eight magna cum laude, 27 cum laude, and 101 honorable mention). Along with the class, the University commissioned three Army and three Navy officers.

The Golden Class of 1968 was celebrated and donned gold robes.

More than 30 members represented the class and were ecstatic to be included in this momentous occasion. (See story page 4) The University awarded doctor of humane letters to Attorney Johnnie A. Jones, Sr.

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Encouraging support system leads Chicago native to become Southern University Baton Rouge top graduate “Hard-working” and “high-achieving” are adjectives that are not new to Kayla Clancy. Through her strong support system, she has been pushed outside of her comfort zone in order to accomplish great things, especially being chosen chief student marshal for the 2018 Southern University Spring Commencement.

“Honestly, I don’t know where I’d be without my support system. My mother has been my backbone through it all,” says the psychology major who led more than 700 grads during spring commencement on May 11 in the F.G. Clark Activity Center. “Since losing my father at the age of nine, my mother was all that I had and she has truly been everything to me and more.”

Kayla Clancy

Clancy’s support team not only included her family, but mentors that made sure that she was headed for greatness. When choosing her next steps, Grambling State University was top on her list until a mentor, Frances Thibodeaux-Fox, told her to keep her options open and continue to research Southern University. Through constant communications with SU admissions representatives and being awarded a scholarship through the SU Alumni Federation Chicago Chapter, she chose to continue her next steps at Southern University in the fall of 2014.

After coming to Baton Rouge, Clancy made herself at home and found support within friends and professors, such as Reginald Rackley, a Southern University psychology professor, and Mark Gaines, a personal friend. They pushed her “outside of (her) comfort zones showing (her) that being uncomfortable promotes true growth.”

This advice proved true for the top grad as she devoted herself to her studies and involving herself in extracurricular activities. She held various offices within Psi Chi, the international honor society in psychology; Collegiate 100 Black Women of Southern University; and the Beta Psi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. To prepare her for her future career, she participated as a research assistant in a National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) funded research internship at University of Chicago during the summer of 2017.

Looking back on her college journey, Clancy said she is proud of the woman she has become. Being chosen as the chief student marshal was an accomplishment that was unexpected.

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“More than anything, I am truly honored. I didn’t think that I would be granted this opportunity, but I’m blessed to say that I am here,” she said. “I owe this to God because without him I am nothing and would not be here. I tell my little sisters all the time that everything I do is for them because I want them to see that the sky is the limit. So, for me, this large achievement is, also, for my little sisters,.”

As she made her final exit, Clancy feels her future is full of bright possibilities. In the fall, she will be attending Louisiana State University to work towards a master of education in clinical mental health counseling. Also, to honor her father’s memory and assist students with having higher education resources, she has decided to start a scholarship in his name at his alma mater in Chicago.

SU Class of 1968 reaches momentous milestone

“This is a way of a marking a milestone,” SU alumna Marie Pulliam said as she straightened her golden robe.

Pulliam and more than 20 of her fellow alumni from the Class of 1968 participated in the Spring 2018 commencement exercises at SUBR. They each received a “golden” diploma to commemorate their 50th graduation anniversary.

The esteemed group was comprised of teachers, nurses, entrepreneurs and more. With gleaming smiles and heartfelt tears, they counted the celebration as a once in a lifetime opportunity.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

American Bar Association president addresses SULC grads The Rev. Joseph Hayden (second from left) accepts his honorary degree from SU Law Center Chancellor John Pierre (left); Ann Smith, chair of the SU Board of Supervisors (second from right); and SU System President-Chancellor Ray Belton during the SULC Spring Commencement on May 12 in the F. G. Clark Activity Center.

Judy Perry Martinez, ABA presidentelect, delivers the address during the SU Law Center Spring 2018 Commencement, May 12, 2018, in the F. G. Clark Activity Center.

The Southern University Law Center (SULC) introduced its 83rd class into its rich legacy of lawyer leaders on Saturday, May 12, 2018, at the F. G. Clark Activity Center. Attorney and president-elect of the American Bar Association, Judy Perry Martinez, delivered an inspiring address to 123 graduates of the Law Center.

The Law Center also recognized Attorney Robert Eames as its Golden Alumnus. Eames became a part of the SULC legacy 50 years ago. Eames graduated and embarked on a career as an advocate for civil rights.

In addition to those participating in commencement exercises, SULC Chancellor John K. Pierre conferred two posthumous degrees to third-year law students, Marquita Christy and Lisa Carral and awarded one honorary degree to the Rev. Joseph Hayden of Maryland.

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SU SYSTEM COMMENCEMENTS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY SHREVEPORT

SUSLA holds 2018 Spring Commencement

SUSLA commencement speaker and platform guests during the pledge.

SU Shreveport Chancellor Rodney Ellis (left) presents a plaque to SUSLA’s Spring 2018 Commencement speaker Patricia McCloud, J.D., a nationally recognized author and motivational speaker.

Spring 2018 graduates stand as degrees are conferred.

Southern University Shreveport, a leader in career-focused education, held Spring 2018 Commencement Exercises Tuesday, May 15, 2018, in the Shreveport Convention Center.

Patricia Russell-McCloud, J.D., nationally recognized author and motivational speaker, gave an enthusiastic keynote speech.

Her address to the graduates emphasized the importance of gratitude and she dared the students to continue to work hard in life to overcoming challenges in the pursuit of their dreams. She received a standing ovation.

Rodney A. Ellis, chancellor of Southern University Shreveport, delivered a special video message that highlighted several of the most notable accomplishments graduates and the University have made this year. Major accomplishments in the area of academics included the creation and expansion of duel enrollment offerings, teacher education program, and expanded mass media and film programs. He went on to congratulate School of Allied Health on the 100 percent pass rate for dental hygiene, licensed practical nursing, and radiologic technology programs.

SUSLA faculty and commencement audience look on as students receive degrees.

“We are so proud of what our students have accomplished, and we are confident that the skills and education they obtained at SUSLA has given them the foundation they need to be successful in their career and in life,” said Ellis. “Our students are great examples of academic achievement in our community; this is their day to be recognized for their hard work and determination and we wish them all the best.”

SUSLA awarded nearly 300 certificates, and technical diplomas in various disciplines including candidates for Summer 2017, Fall 2017, and Spring 2018 at the ceremony.

Melva Williams also acknowledged the select candidates that received Adult Education Completion Certificates, and Community Education for Life Transitions (CELT) Certificates.

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SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY NEW ORLEANS

Attorney, SUS Board member Antonio ‘Tony’ Clayton delivers SUNO’s 2018 commencement address

Atty. Tony Clayton, managing partner of the Clayton, Fruge, Ward Law Firm and member of the SUS Board of Supervisors, gives the commencement address at SUNO’s Commencement on May 12 at the Lakefront Arena.

Antonio “Tony” Clayton, managing partner of the Clayton, Fruge and Ward Law Firm, was the Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) Commencement speaker Saturday, May 12, 2018, at the Lakefront Arena.

SUNO conferred degrees for more than 500 graduates. The class of 2018 consists of 68 honor graduates: four suma cum laude, 17 magna cum laude, 40 cum laude and seven honors. Social work major Bartek West was the Spring 2018 graduate with the highest GPA of 3.891. In addition, 191 graduates received master’s degrees.

Clayton, a 1988 graduate of Southern University A&M College and a 1991 cum laude graduate of the Southern University Law Center, had a storied career as a prosecutor in East Baton Rouge Parish and as special prosecutor for the 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

As a prosecutor, Clayton secured the convictions of numerous felons, most notably serial killer Derrick Todd Lee and, more recently, Monique Kitts, who was convicted of the second degree murder of her husband in West Baton Rouge.

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SUNO Chancellor Lisa Mims-Devezin with top graduate Bartek West (right), spring 2018 graduate with highest grade-point average of 3.891.

In addition to his public service as a prosecutor, Clayton served as a district court judge at the 19th Judicial District Court in 1997. As a trial attorney, Clayton has secured numerous multimillion dollar jury awards on behalf of injured clients, including a $144 million judgment in Peggy Ross, et al. v. Michael Averette, et al., which currently is the largest jury award ever granted in Louisiana. In April 2016, Clayton assisted in obtaining a $52 million jury award for a severely brain-damaged client.

Clayton serves on the Southern University System Board of Supervisors. He also is a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association, Baton Rouge Bar Association, Louisiana District Attorney Association, among others.

He is married to the former Paula Hartley and has five children.

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Meeting the Challenge: Rekindling Hope The Honoré Center for Undergraduate Student Achievement at SUNO welcomes its fourth graduate.

The Southern University and A & M College System, in 2014, established the Honoré Center for Undergraduate Student Achievement (CUSA) with funding from the State of Louisiana and other sources to improve success rates for African-American males in Louisiana that attend college, while also increasing the number of male classroom teachers in urban settings. Area high school male graduates are selected for the initiative that provides them substantial added support and resources to complete their college education at SUNO, and to become effective classroom teachers.

Donovan Woods has completed a journey that has allowed him to set and achieve goals that seemed unattainable, and to step into opportunities that are endless. He has recently become the fourth Honoré Center for Undergraduate Student Achievement (HCUSA) cohort to complete the Center›s program and receive a college degree in education from Southern University at New Orleans .

“The HCUSA influenced my decision to study education,” Woods said.

My internships at local schools has shown me how fulfilling it is to give back through education. This program offered the financial assistance that made it possible for me to concentrate on my studies. It also offered a strong support group and tutoring.”

Woods said his journey and the Honore’ program would not be possible without the generorsity of donors to the SU System. He credits the center for his successful networking and other skills.

“The ‘Manhood Mondays’ meetings introduced me to successful men in my community, which gave me hope that a young black man could escape poverty through education,” Woods said. “HCUSA gave me guidance and support that propelled me to excel. Plus, it gave me all the tools needed for success.”

Morkeith Phillips, newly appointed HCUSA director, says that it was an honor to see Woods receive his degree, and that he plans to diligently work to continue to carry out the Center’s mission.

“Donovan’s experiences during the program had ups and downs, due to him getting adjusted to college life,” Phillips said. “However, with the support and the life lessons learned from the program, he has completed the task of graduating from college. Donovan is a proud young man who is focused on being successful in life.”

The initiative is named after Lt. Gen. Russel L. Honoré, a Southern University alumnus, military hero, and expert on leadership development. Students with leadership potential and the motivation to make a difference in their communities are chosen ideally with ACT scores and GPA that qualify them for university admission with no more than one developmental course required. Honoré scholars are provided year-round campus housing at SUNO in a holistic living and learning environment. Additional support includes a personal computer, campus meal plan, a monthly $100 stipend, plus a $500 textbook voucher per semester for up to five years. Personal counseling, field trips, life skills, and tutoring resources are incorporated to help ensure their academic and personal success.

The Five-Fifths Agenda for America (FFAA) project was initiated by the Southern University System (SUS) to address the critical problem in education for African-American youth, particularly young black males in lower-income communities who are dropping out of high school and filling the “cradle to prison” pipeline, creating a moral and economic crisis for our nation. The issue is significant for the health of urban areas in the United States and for the economic future of our country in the global economy.

Following a comprehensive design phase ­— supported by public funds and grants from Lumina and other foundations — the SUS created the Honoré Center for Undergraduate Student Achievement to undertake the FFAA pilot in New Orleans.

The Honoré Center for Undergraduate Student Achievement is part of a national demonstration to address the black male cradle-to-prison pipeline and its consequences. The goal of the FFAA national initiative is to enable young black men with life challenges to become educators and servant leaders who will seed positive change in their schools and communities.

An additional goal is to establish public Historically Black Colleges and Universities as institutional bases for long-term systemic change.

Woods joins HCUSA graduates Jared Jupiter, Domonique Carter, and Louis Blackmon. He says that the HCUSA has helped to establish a lifetime brotherhood with his fellow Honoré (center) alumni.

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SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Eleven-year-old prodigy commits to Southern University “It’s great to be a third-generation Jaguar. I am really happy for this opportunity,” exclaimed Elijah Precciely, an 11-year-old incoming physics/mechanical engineering student at Southern University.

At the May 25, 2018, meeting of the SU Board of Supervisors, Elijah committed to the University and will receive the J.S. Clark Presidential Scholar Award, which provides a full scholarship.

“When I reflect upon this award, it means legacy,” Elijah said amid a standing ovation.

Elijah, along with his parents, SU alumni Pamela and Stephen Precciely, expressed their gratitude for this opportunity and their love for Southern University with comparisons to the fictitious country of Wakanda from the popular movie, “Black Panther.”

“Southern University’s vibranium is in the soil of the Bluff,” Stephen Precciely said. “The University truly produces greatness.”

The new Jaguar continued to thank and show appreciation for professors, mentors, and family members that have supported and propelled him to this achievement.

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SU Alumni Federation hosts Academic Signing Day events On April 18, 2018, the Southern University Alumni Federation held its annual Academic Signing Day. Alumni chapters in Baton Rouge, Atlanta, Dallas, and other areas held local events where students learned more about the University, completed applications, and networked with University officials.

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SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SUSLA celebrates 50 years with Golden Gala

Guests at SUSLA’s 50th Anniversary Golden Gala on May 5, 2018, in downtown Shreveport.

(Pictured left-right) Sen. Gregory W. Tarver Sr., Shreveport Mayor Ollie Tyler, Velma Tarver, and Allen Dave at the 50th Anniversary Gala for SUSLA.

On May 5, 2018, Southern University Shreveport hosted its 50th Anniversary Golden Gala, at 421 Texas Street in downtown Shreveport. The Gala was the final event in a year-long series of anniversary celebrations and was the crowning jewel befitting the campus’s 50th milestone. Hundreds of local and state dignitaries, stakeholders, faculty, staff, friends, and alumni joined to celebrate SUSLA’s success and 50-year legacy in Shreveport.

It was a very special night, as SUSLA celebrated five decades of excellence in education and transforming dreams into reality for its graduates. SUSLA chancelor Rodney Ellis, joined by SU System President Ray Belton, and Board of Supervisors Chair Ann Smith, recognized the following honorees for their service to SUSLA: • The Family of Alphonse Jackson Jr. • The City of Shreveport • The Parish of Caddo • Senator Gregory W. Tarver Sr., District 39 Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner and took a “Journey Through the Decades.” According to the SUSLA Office of Institutional Advancement, gross receipts for funds raised during the 50th Golden Gala total more than $102,000. Top donors who were honored during the Gala include: • Griggs Enterprises/MC Donald’s, Presenting Sponsor • Tony and Tina Williams (2nd donation) • Capital One Bank • Christus Shreveport-Bossier Health System

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Sharron Herron-Williams (left), vice chancellor of academic affairs; and Regina S. Robinson, vice chancellor for the Division of Research, Sponsored Programs, and Institutional Effectiveness (RSPIE) at SUSLA’s 50 Anniversary Gala in downtown Shreveport on May 5, 2018.

The event would not have been possible without the support and efforts of sponsors, friends, the Gala Committee (chaired by Angelique Feaster Evans) and the SUSLA Community.

Funds raised from the event will help support students by removing financial barriers to success with scholarships and stipends.

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Southern University System receives resolution from Louisiana Legislature during ‘SUS Day at the Capitol’

Visiting in the Louisiana House of Representatives for SU Day at the Capitol were (from left), Ray L. Belton, SU System president; Rep. Robby Carter, District 72; Ann Smith, chair of the SU Board of Supervisors; and Rep. Stephen Pugh, District 73.

Southern University administrators, students, and Board members being presented the Southern University Day at the Capitol resolution in the Louisiana Senate.

Southern University administrators, students, and Board members with Sen. Regina Barrow, District 15 (center).

The Southern University System received a resolution for being a trailblazer in the HBCU community from both the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives during SU Day at the Capitol on March 28, 2018. The resolution stated that the System provides “models of excellence in diversity, education, research, workforce solutions, and universal engagement by embracing its landgrant principle and thereby affecting change in and around the Southern University community.”

All campuses — Southern University Baton Rouge, Southern University New Orleans, Southern University Shreveport, Southern University Law Center, and Southern University Agricultural Land-Grant Campus — were represented by students, employees, alumni, and other supporters at the annual higher education event. Southern University Laboratory School, the System’s pre-K to 12th-grade school, also was represented.

“Southern means the world to me,” said Robert Rene´, admissions recruiter and alumnus of Southern at Baton Rouge. “If it weren’t for Southern, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

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The SU Land Grant Campus researchers present its edible products from the hibiscus plant during campus exhibits in the Louisiana State Capitol Rotunda.

The day started with breakfast on the House of Representatives Patio featuring foods that represented the University system’s locations (Baton Rouge, New Orleans and Shreveport). While legislators, administrators, and supporters gathered and mingled, they were entertained with jazz music by Michael Foster, SUBR alumnus. As committee meetings began, campus displays greeted lawmakers on the rotunda floor. Each campus provided tables with literature, posters, and videos highlighting recent accomplishments from faculty and students. The Ag Center gave away samples of its well-known hibiscus jelly, and tea.

Also during Senate and House sessions, two more resolutions were made: Sandy Pugh, SUBR women’s basketball coach, was recognized for being named the SWAC Coach of the Year; and Younne A. Reid, SUNO’s track coach, was applauded for being named Coach of the Year for the Southern Region of the NAIA 2018 Indoor Track and Field Season.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

2018 Legislative update Key legislation: Cador Building naming The naming of the Baseball Operations Building for former head baseball coach Roger Cador became a reality through legislation sponsored

by Rep. Barbara W. Carpenter of Baton Rouge.

Look for the new signage soon.

Free Speech Colleges and universities have to spell out free speech rights and publicize those rights in student handbooks and on school websites with the passage of a bill by Sen. Rick Ward of Port Allen. Universities will have to make clear that students cannot expect colleges to shield them from opinions they find offensive or disagreeable.

Medical Marijuana As the University embarks upon medical marijuana research and production, the Legislature expanded the disease categories that can be treated with medicinal cannabis. The expansion now includes autism, glaucoma, severe muscle spasms, intractable pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, and Parkinson’s disease. Representatives Ted James of Baton Rouge and Rodney Lyons of Marrero authored these instruments.

House Bill 48, regarding naming the Baseball Operations Center in honor of former coach Roger Cador, passed the House Education Committee in March. Rep. Barbara Carpenter authored this bill. Rep. Carpenter is pictured (left to right) with Robyn Merrick, Atty. Domoine Rutledge, member of the Board of Supervisors; Roger Cador, and Dana Carpenter, SUBR employee.

This year has so far seen three Special Sessions of the Louisiana Legislature in addition to the Regular Session. The most significant issue has been the uncertainty of the state’s budget due to $1 billion in expiring temporary taxes. Of course, the state’s revenues have a direct impact on funding for the Southern University System. The third special session began June 18.

Funding While Louisiana higher education institutions remain hopeful for adequate funding, the SU System has implemented Systemwide spending freezes on travel, supplies, operating services, and equipment in preparation for proposed cuts for the remainder of the current fiscal year. We recognize that any losses in funding at this point would only serve to compromise the University’s forward-moving growth for the 2018-2019 fiscal year.

HBCU Advisory Council Sen. Wesley Bishop of New Orleans sponsored legislation creating the Advisory Council on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) under the jurisdiction of the Board of Regents for the purpose of focusing on ways to strengthen the capacity of HBCUs. In consultation with the Southern University System and Grambling State University, the council shall provide guidance and advice to the commissioner of higher education and the Board of Regents regarding best practices to strengthen the capacity of the state’s HBCUs.

Infrastructure/Facilities Work continues on projects ensuring the full accessibility of the University’s facilities. Additional funding is in place for building construction on the SUSLA campus as well as improvements throughout System.

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By the Numbers* • No. 1 diverse law school in Louisiana • One of the Top 5 Most Affordable Law Schools in the U.S. • Graduates 90 percent of African-American lawyers in Louisiana • More than 40 alumni hold judicial offices at the local, state, and national levels • Top 5 Most Diverse Faculty in the U.S. • Top 3 Most Competitive Students For more information about our JD, JD/MBA, JD/MPA and Public Law Certificate programs, go to www.sulc.edu or call 225-771-2552.

The Southern University Law Center is accredited by the American Bar Association. *Data from AffordableSchools.net and Princeton Review.

SULC student receives state law student pro bono award Fatima Mann, a student at the Southern University Law Center, received the Louisiana State Bar Association Law Student Pro Bono Award on May 22, 2018, at the Louisiana Supreme Court in New Orleans. Mann was recognized for her pro bono efforts that began with her entrance to SULC, and for serving Fatima Mann her current community of Austin, Texas, through two organizations she founded: Austin Justice of Coalition and the Counter Balance Foundation.

in Texas. As a founder of Austin Justice of Coalition, she has participated in community restoration projects, provided cultural resources and assistance to survivors of Hurricane Harvey and the Great Flood of 2016 in Louisiana. After these natural disasters, Mann provided supplies such as water, cleaning supplies, toiletries, food, canoes, and boats. She collected $22,000 in donations and three times that amount in in-kind donations. Not only did she provide supplies and collect donations, she also aided in recovering approximately 400 citizens in the affected areas. Mann has also traveled to St. Thomas, St. Croix, and Puerto Rico to assist with the hurricane recovery efforts of Hurricane Maria.

As a founder of Counter Balance Foundation, Mann has written policies assisting with body-wear for the Austin Police Department and juvenile curfew, ending the meet-and-confer process. She has also lobbied for Sandra Bland by organizing the largest march for the late, nationally recognized activist

In addition to her organizations, Mann has created Feed El Barrio, which brings organic fruit and vegetables to underserved communities in Austin through Urban Roots farmers. She has also created summits for women of underserved communities, which provides a place where women can unapologetically be themselves.

SULC professor fights to end non-unanimous jury practice Louisiana’s non-unanimous jury law allows felony convictions when only 10 of 12 seated jurors vote to convict. This law was first enacted in 1898 by lawmakers who openly said on the record that they enacted laws to “protect the supremacy of the white race.”

Three years ago, SULC professor Angela Bell joined forces with a few other individuals to end this practice. At that time, they had little more than a vision. On May 14, 2018, the Louisiana House of Representatives voted 82-15 to place a proposed constitutional amendment to end the practice on the ballot. That was the final legislative step. The vote means that on November 6, 2018, Louisiana voters will decide whether to join 48 other states in requiring unanimous jury verdicts in all felony trials. If successful, this will be the single most impactful criminal justice reform to take place in Louisiana’s history due to the sheer volume of people directly and indirectly impacted by the non-unanimous jury system.

injustice dating back from Louisiana’s Jim Crow era past. These people were fearless and willing to serve. They didn’t ignore the problem and wait on the next person. Because of them, a relic of white supremacy and a poignant threat to justice has been threatened and is now on life support.”

“I have seen this non-unanimous jury effort evolve from a small, polite discussion to an organized effort to an uncontainable movement,” Bell said. “This happened because of the collective efforts of a number of courageous people who dared expose an

This newly adopted resolution next goes to the ABA Board of Governors in August, 2018. If it passes there, it will become the official policy of the ABA.

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In all her humbleness and modesty, Bell prefers credit to be bestowed on the group collectively although she has led the charge to end the discriminatory practice. Her efforts include countless scholarly writings, media interviews, presentations to legislators, letters to persons of influence, and years of prayer.

Her efforts prompted a request by the ABA Criminal Justice Committee to draft a report and resolution relative to this.

Bell completed the report and resolution in February 2018.

In April 2018, that resolution was voted upon by the ABA’s Criminal Justice Section.

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SU Ag Center’s Flower and Garden Conference attendees learn about growing, arrangement techniques

Karen “Mimo” Davis demonstrates how to arrange fresh cut flowers during the SU Land-Grant Campus’ Second Annual Flower and Garden Conference on April 25, 2018. Davis was the keynote speaker of the conference.

The aroma of fresh cut flowers flowed throughout the room during the Southern University Land-Grant Campus’ 2nd Annual Flower and Garden Conference April 25, 2018. Approximately 100 individuals attended the conference held at the Southern University Ag Center.

Karen “Mimo” Davis, founder of Urban Buds: City Grown Flowers in St. Louis, Missouri, was the conference’s guest speaker.

Davis has 24 years of experience growing specialty cut flowers.

Prior to founding Urban Buds, Davis operated Wild Thang Farms in Ashland, Missouri. When Davis operated the farm, it was considered the largest cut flower farm in the state. She is also a graduate of the SU Land-Grant Campus’ Small Farmer Agricultural Leadership Institute.

During her presentation, Davis discussed the history behind the historic farmstead in which the business operates, the growing techniques that are used to grow the 70 different types of flowers that the business grows, and the different services that the business provides. Davis also demonstrated how to make a flower arrangement from fresh cut flowers.

Other presenters included Sara Woods, owner of Sunshine Tea Louisiana, and local florist Rita Stephens. The women made presentations on the making of sunshine tea and constructing corsages with silk and fresh flowers respectively. Participants were also able to tour the SU Ag Center’s greenhouse and Urban Demonstration Farm.

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Florist Rita Stephens trims the stem of a rose during her corsage making demonstration at the SU Land-Grant Campus’ 2nd Annual Flower and Garden Conference. The event was held at the SU Ag Center on April 25, 2018.

Sara Woods, owner of Sunshine Tea Louisiana, holds a jar of ‘Papa Woods Magical Royal Tea’ during her Art of Blending Tea presentation at the SU LandGrant Campus’ 2nd Annual Flower and Garden Conference. The event was held on April 25, 2018 at the SU Ag Center.

At the end of the conference, the participants were given an opportunity to put what they learned during the conference to the test by working in groups to make their own floral arrangements.

As a parting gift, participants received a flowering plant to take home and continue the work started at the conference.

The conference was hosted by the SU Land-Grant Campus’ Wisteria Alliance Program, the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program, and the Flower Lovers’ Garden Guild. The Wisteria Alliance Program prepares women to own and operate their own farms and other agricultural-based businesses. It began in 2012 as a pilot program aimed at providing practical, hands-on training for women who live on farms, and those whose interest lie in starting a farm, and/or urban or community garden.

The Flower Lovers’ Garden Guild begin on November 20, 1953, with a group of women gathering to organize a club that would enable them to learn more about flowers, to exchange ideas about their culture and to fellowship. Its focus is the beautification of the community and homes with flowers and plants.

The SU Land-Grant Campus will hold its annual Fall Garden Workshop on November 20, 2018 at the SU Ag Center.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Southern University Land-Grant Campus aims to help freshmen maintain healthy lifestyle, better eating habits

Before photo of JagBar participant Debradon Brown.

SU Ag Center’s research associate Mila Berhane (standing) teaches JagBar participants how to grow their own herbs.

After photo of JagBar participant Debradon Brown.

The “Freshman 15” — a term that refers to the weight gain of college students during their freshman year. To combat this issue, Fatemeh Malekian, SU Ag Center research professor, developed the JagBar program.

This USDA-funded project is designed to combat obesity through the consummation of an all natural high protein JagBar. For 14 weeks, the group of freshman students consumed the JagBar for breakfast and attended weekly classes, which were inclusive of nutrition education, food demonstrations, educational handouts, and an hour of exercise with a personal trainer.

To participate in the program students had to be a freshman at Southern University A&M College, be between the ages of 18 and 24, have a body mass index (BMI) of 30-40, have a commitment to the program for a full semester, and register as a health ambassador.

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After the students successfully completed the program, they received a $200 Gift Card to the Southern University bookstore.

“In my opinion, the JagBar weight loss program has been an amazing experience,” said Debradon Brown, a 19-year-old mass communication student who participated in the program during the Fall 2017 semester.

“It taught me to be more aware of what I put into my body, and how I take care of my body,” he said. “Our instructors and personal trainer were extremely exemplary, and their commitment to supporting us and continuing to believe in us was unbelievable. All and all, I loved my experience with the program, and it has inspired me to want to be a better, healthier me.”

The program will continue in the Fall 2018 semester and the SU Ag Center will be recruiting another class of freshmen.

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Southern University receives internship with Paramount Pictures Dreams really do come true.

A Southern University student will be living his dream in Hollywood this summer.

Michael Foster, sophomore music education major, is chosen for a summer internship with Paramount Studios.

Michael Foster, a sophomore music education major, was given the surprise of a lifetime at a press conference on April 9, 2018, at the Mumford Fieldhouse. He was awarded a summer internship by the Motion Picture Association of America through the “HBCUs in LA” program.

At the beginning of the conference, Foster was squaring away equipment and preparing a usual assignment. It wasn’t until his name was announced that he knew he was there for a bigger

reason. Out of 2,000 applicants, Foster was one of 20 students selected.

“I’m really excited right now,” Foster said. “I can’t wait to get started, and I’m just really happy to be accepted and even be considered for an opportunity like this.”

Foster was surprised during a news conference at Mumford Field House, where his parents were in attendance. He says he wants to pursue a career in concert production.

In June, 2018, Foster embarked on an eight week internship with Paramount Pictures, where he’ll work in post-production. “I like seeing the behind the scenes of that,” Foster said. “Like every time I see a movie, I love to watch how they made it and all those types of things. It’s just so much that’s involved that’s really there to be appreciated.”

Foster is a proud member of the SU “Human Jukebox” Marching Band. Besides playing the snare drum, he uses his other talents to create videos for the band and teaches a percussion to class to younger students.

Southern University Shreveport professor receives Fulbright United States Scholar Award

Joseph Orban, a distinguished professor of biomedical sciences at Southern University Shreveport, has received a Fulbright United States Scholar Program Award.

Joseph Orban, a distinguished professor of biomedical sciences at Southern University Shreveport, has received a Fulbright United States Scholar Program Award in health sciences. During the 10-month program, Orban will provide lectures in human anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, nutrition in health and disease, and conduct research in health sciences at Benue State University in Nigeria. The program is part of a project to enhance health science instruction and research at the institution. Orban will also provide grant writing training to the faculty and staff at the university.

Orban is one of more than 800 U.S. citizens who will teach, conduct research, and/or provide expertise abroad for the 2018-2019 academic year through the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program. Recipients of Fulbright awards are selected on the basis of academic and professional achievement as well as record of service and demonstrated leadership in their respective fields.

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The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government and is designed to build lasting connections between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The Fulbright Program is funded through an annual appropriation made by the U.S. Congress to the U.S. Department of State. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations, and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the Program, which operates in more than 160 countries worldwide.

Since its establishment in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late U.S. Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the Fulbright Program has given more than 370,000 students, scholars, teachers, artists, and scientists the opportunity to study, teach and conduct research, exchange ideas, and contribute to finding solutions to shared international concerns. Fulbrighters address critical global issues in all disciplines, while building relationships, knowledge, and leadership in support of the long-term interests of the United States. Fulbright alumni have achieved distinction in many fields, including 57 who have been awarded the Nobel Prize, 82 who have received Pulitzer Prizes, and 37 who have served as a head of state or government.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Southern University wins $40K campus improvement grant from Home Depot’s Retool Your School program “My staff and I are thrilled that we have received this grant to aid in bringing functionality back to the library,” said Emma Perry, dean of libraries. “We pride ourselves in ensuring that students have a pleasing and educational experience at the library.”

Since the flood, the library has been opened with limited access to certain floors, books, and classrooms. This grant will provide students an additional place to gather, study and complete assignments.

Home Depot’s 2018 Retool Your School program announced that Southern University Baton Rouge has been awarded a $40,000 campus improvement grant. The project will be renovating the John B. Cade Library’s reference room and study areas. This past January, the library was flooded due to pipes bursting during very cold weather.

“I am so proud of our Jaguars and supporters who voted to make sure that we were in the running for this award,” expressed Ray L. Belton, president-chancellor of the Southern University System.

“With this grant, we can greatly enhance an existing gem of the University.”

Southern University Baton Rouge received more than 200,000 votes by voting online and using the hashtag #SouthernU_RYS18.

Southern partners with Baton Rouge Community College to increase number of STEM graduates On April 11, 2018, officials from Southern University and A&M College (SUBR) and Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding James Ammons, executive vice chancellor/ executive vice president, and Larissa Littleton- signifying the Steib, chancellor of Baton Rouge Community agreement between College, sign the transfer MOU. the schools to facilitate the articulation of coursework and to provide a seamless transfer of BRCC associate of science (AS) students into the SUBR College of Sciences and Engineering to earn a bachelor of science (BS).

“This agreement between two of the leading institutions of higher learning in the state is another step in expanding our offerings in STEM,” said Ray L. Belton, president of the Southern University System and chancellor of Southern University Baton Rouge.

“This new program will allow a greater number of students to seamlessly matriculate and obtain their bachelor’s degrees right here in Baton Rouge. We look forward to their success and another great partnership with BRCC.” SPRING/SUMMER 2018

The agreement, which is effective immediately, was signed by Ray Belton, president/chancellor SU System; Larissa Littleton-Steib, chancellor BRCC; James Ammons, executive vice president/ executive vice chancellor, SUBR; Toni Manogin, vice chancellor for academic and student affairs, BRCC; Patrick Carriere, dean of College of Sciences and Engineering, SUBR; and Laura Younger, dean of STEM Division, BRCC. “We are excited to build upon our current partnership with Southern University to continuously enrich our students’ transfer and workforce opportunities,” Littleton-Steib said. “This agreement will not only allow a seamless transfer for our students pursuing bachelor degrees in STEM-related fields, but it will also encourage future students to consider the endless opportunities available to them by starting their college careers at Baton Rouge Community College.”

Under the agreement, SUBR will admit BRCC students, who have received the Associate of Science degree in Computer Science or General Science with an overall GPA of 2.0 and completed the declaration of intent to pursue the Bachelor of Science (BS) in the College of Sciences and Engineering, as a junior into the university.

Baton Rouge Community College contributed to this article.

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More than 700 local schoolchildren attend National Ag Day celebration in Baton Rouge

Student participants enjoy several fun and challenging sessions at this year’s National Ag Day celebration at the SU Ag Center.

More than 700 middle and high school students from East Baton Rouge Parish participated in the 6th Annual Southern University Land-Grant Campus National Ag Day Celebration on April 10, 2018.

and urban forestry, and meat processing laboratories. Outside, there was a petting zoo that featured chickens, ducks, baby pigs, and lambs. As a musical treat, they watched a soulful performance by the “Human Jukebox” drum line.

“The importance of National Ag Day is to make sure the students are aware of all the different opportunities that are available to them within agriculture as far as careers,” said Renita Marshall, event organizer and chair of the Department of Animal Science in the Southern University College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences. “We also want to make students aware of some of the activities they can do while majoring in the Department of Agricultural Sciences.”

Ray Belton, president-chancellor of Southern University System, and Bobby R. Phills, chancellor of the SU Ag Center and dean of the SU College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences welcomed the students to the University and encouraged them to pursue their higher education at Southern University. Southern’s Office of Admissions and Recruitment was on hand to provide the students with admissions information to the University.

The celebration was packed with tours and exhibits for the students to take a look into what the SU Ag Center has to offer.

The students participated in a cooking demonstration and toured the green house, food science, plant science, microbiology, biofuel

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National Ag Day, which was recognized on March 20, 2018, is a nationwide effort to tell the true story of American agriculture and remind citizens that agriculture is a part of everyday life.

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SUBR breaks ground on Clayton Championship Plaza

(From left) Brian Lefleur, project manager with BJL Group; Alfred Harrell, CEO of SU System Foundation; Roman Banks, SU athletics director; Ray L. Belton, SU System president-chancellor; Paula Clayton, benefactor and SU alumna; Ann Smith, SU System Board chair; Donald Henry, SU System Board vice chair; David Mougeot, project architect; Duane Mizell, general contractor with Stuart and Company; and Blake Panepinto, general contractor with Stuart and Company.

This spring, Southern University officials, alumni, and supporters gathered at the A.W. Mumford Fieldhouse to break ground on the Tony Clayton Championship Plaza. Tony Clayton, a member of the SU System Board of Supervisors, and family contributed $1.1 million to fund the project.

Also in attendance for the ceremony were James Ammons, executive vice president/executive vice chancellor; Ann Smith, Southern University Board of Supervisors chairwoman; Southern University board members; and Southern University Foundation board members.

“I hear everyone say to us, ‘thank you’ for what we’ve done.

However, our gift is to say thank you to Southern University,” said Paula Clayton, who was surrounded by immediate family.

“By giving back, it says ‘thank you’ to shaping us into who we are today.”

The plaza will be located at the main entrance to the Arnett “Ace” Mumford Field House on Swan Avenue and will feature bronze plaques commemorating Southern University championships and athletes. The bronze plaques will be mounted to eight square cast stone and brick columns beneath a 50-foot diameter stucco ring. The ring and columns will be illuminated by color-changing LED lights, which can be programmed to display school colors as well as colors celebrating holidays or events. Within the boundaries of the ring, approximately 1,400 concrete pavers will provide opportunities for any person or organization to sponsor a permanent part of the plaza.

Ray Belton, Southern University System president and Baton Rouge campus chancellor, was among those who provided sentiments on the gift to the University.

“Who gives more than $1 million to an institution?” remarked Belton. “…Individuals who are true Southernites; individuals who remember the impact Southern has had on them. This gift establishes a tone of excellence for the University.”

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SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SULC alum wins judgeship in Harris County Criminal Court Jones who grew up in Houston’s South Park/Sunnyside neighborhood is a graduate of Jesse H. Jones Senior High School.

She completed her undergraduate studies at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where she graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in political science. While at Baylor, she was actively involved in several student groups and service organizations. She was a member of Phi Alpha Delta pre-law fraternity. One of her most significant roles at Baylor was her service as a Baylor Ambassador charged with meeting with local state legislators to advocate the importance of maintaining the Pell grant. This was important to her as a first-generation college student who struggled the various obstacles related to the pursuit of higher education.

SULC alumna Toya Jones successfully wins judgeship in Harris County.

On March 6, 2018, SU Law Center alumna Tonya Jones garnered a win in the Harris County, Texas, primary election by getting 70 percent of the votes for a win over her opponent Kris Ougrah. This court handles Class A and B misdemeanors in Texas.

Jones was admitted to the Texas bar in 2011 and began her legal career as an intern at the prestigious Ramos Family Law Group, where she honed her knowledge of family law. She then became an associate attorney for the distinguished Law Offices of Wilvin J. Carter, where she sharpened her skills as a litigator. Her wealth of diverse experience and passion for public services gives her a unique and fresh perspective to bring to the bench.

SULC alumnus, SUS Board member tapped to lead criminal division of state Department of Justice Pat Magee, a 2004 graduate of Southern University Law Center, was recently selected to lead the Criminal Division of the Louisiana Department of Justice. With more than a decade of service in the 15th Judicial District Attorney’s Office and private practice, his body of work includes creating and implementing the Zoned Area Intervention Program, which was aimed at lowering the crime and recidivism rates of high poverty areas, serving as prosecutor of the Drug Court Program, and defending the civil liberties of alleged criminals.

“Pat Magee has vast experience ensuring the law is faithfully executed — protecting our civil liberties while keeping our communities safe,” said Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry. “I trust Pat will use this knowledge and his passion to serve Louisiana in a manner that honors our office’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, defending the Constitution, and protecting our state’s people.”

Patrick Magee

Magee, a Lafayette native and veteran of the Louisiana Army National Guard, continues his commitment to service through his role as a member of the Southern University Board of Supervisors.

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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Summer engineering program inspiration leads to successful career for Southern Baton Rouge alumna

Natalie A. Hurks

Since graduating from Southern University Baton Rouge in 1988, Alexandria native Natalie A. Hurks has enjoyed a near 30-year, fast-track career with The Procter and Gamble Company (P&G). She is another shining example of a successful female SU STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degree holder who has helped address the historical under-representation of minorities in these predominant fields.

Hurks’s journey to hold a top position at one of country’s largest multinational consumer goods corporations began when she was a student at Peabody Magnet High School in Alexandria.

Her high school guidance counselor told then Natalie Alisa Woods about the Southern University Engineering Summer Institute (ESI), a residential program for high school juniors.

“I had expressed interest in an engineering career so this was a great exposure opportunity,” Hurks said. “I attended the program the summer of 1983 and was completely sold on engineering as the right path for me, and Southern University as the place to take me there. The passion and dedication of the (SU) engineering leadership was outstanding. At this time Southern’s Engineering Program was widely recognized as best in class, with 100 percent post-graduation placement. While at Southern I not only developed academically but grew personally and professionally, well prepared to enter corporate America.”

After graduation from high school the aspiring engineering enrolled at Southern in fall 1984 as a civil engineering major.

“While at Southern I was very active in National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), peer tutoring in the Mathematics Department, and Residential Life (RA),” she shared.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering in fall 1988 Hurks began her career at The Procter and Gamble Company in January of 1989.

During her 29-year career, she has held many management positions across several P&G business units including North America Supply Chain Leader for Cover Girl Cosmetics, and Global Technical Director for P&G Professional. Currently Hurks is the North America Fabric Care Go To Market Director.

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“I have end-to-end responsibility for the NA Fabric Care supply chain, including key brands such as Tide, Gain, Bounce, Downy, etc.,” said the SU alumna. “I manage an annualized budget of $3B and serve more than 2000 dedicated employees who make it happen everyday.”

Hurks is very grateful and acknowledges the role Southern University played in her professional and personal achievements and is a very active and supportive member of the Jaguar Nation and SU Alumni Federation (SUAF). She is currently 1st Vice President of the Greater Cincinnati SUAF Chapter.

“I am very clear Southern University played a huge role in my being where I am today. I am committed to giving my time, talent, and financial support to make sure we remain a viable force in developing leaders of the future. All of us as alumni should feel a healthy obligation to support our wonderful institution. HBCUs continue to face support headwinds and lots of questions on relevancy. We have to lead the charge on making sure everyone understands the role these institutions continue to play in society at large, as well as in the communities where they exist. We will be the difference — let’s geaux!” said Hurks, a proud and passionate Jaguar.

The long-time P&G executive played a key role in securing Platinum Sponsorship from P&G for the 2017 Bayou Classic. She is the corporate sponsor for the P&G Southern University Recruiting Team.

“Our team conducts a Student Leadership Institute every spring on campus which focuses on professional etiquette and emotional intelligence. Our goal is to prepare these talented young people for employment opportunities in Corporate America, emphasizing the written and unwritten norms that will set them up for success,” said Hurks.

SU System President-Chancellor Ray L. Belton had the pleasure to visit with Hurks during the recent “Meet the Jaguars” event in Alexandria hosted annually by the Rapides Chapter SU Alumni Federation.

“It is always gratifying to follow successful Southern University alumni.

Mrs. Hurks distinguished career at P&G has brought honor to her profession and to Southern University,” Belton said. “We appreciate her commitment and work to support our mission and vision for SU.” In addition to building a successful and rewarding career and supporting her alma mater, the central Louisiana native has a full and rewarding family life. She is married to Bryant Hurks, a Grambling State University alumnus, and has three daughters: Shuntavia, an elementary school teacher in Austin, Texas; Kaci, a junior premed neuroscience major at the University of Kentucky; and Kennedy, a high school senior.

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Save the Date Annual Fundraising Event for Southern University at New Orleans

Call 504-286-5341 for sponsorship opportunities and ticket information

SUNO receives $1.2 million National Science Foundation grant to produce STEM teachers The National Science Foundation awarded Southern University New Orleans a fiveyear $1.2 million Robert Noyce grant for a project to address the shortage of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teachers in high-need public schools.

SUNO will collaborate with John Ehret High School and Brookhaven National Lab to recruit, support and certify 22 STEM teachers. Recruitment activities will focus on the pool of qualified SUNO undergraduate STEM students enrolled in the Department of Natural Sciences.

Program activities will include: early exposure of prospective teachers to high-need schools; seminar series on characteristics of highly effective STEM Teachers; science fairs for high school students to attract students to STEM fields and their teachers to teacher certification programs; Praxis I & II preparation; and

post-certification mentoring of new STEM teachers by content faculty mentors.

Project leadership consists of principal investigator Cynthia Singleton (mathematics), and co-principal investigator Joe Omojola (mathematics and physics), Murty Kambhampati (biology) and Louise Kaltenbaugh (education).

“These experienced faculty members have collaborated successfully on many projects at departmental, college and university levels, including grant writing, committee assignments, and curriculum developments,” said Lisa Mims-Devezin, chancellor of Southern University New Orleans. “They are very passionate about STEM education. I congratulate them for their hard work, commitment and dedication to developing future STEM teachers.”

The duration of the project is May 2018 through April 2023.

Urban League CEO Marc Morial guest lectures during SUNO’s African-American History Month activities The Center for African and African American Studies (CAAAS) at Southern University New Orleans hosted the Charles Frye Memorial Lecture on Feb. 19, 2018, as part of the University’s African-American History Month Celebration. The guest lecturer was Marc Morial, president and chief executive officer of the National Urban League, and a former mayor of New Orleans.

Morial talked about his fond memories of growing up in Pontchartrain Park and using SUNO’s Leonard S. Washington Memorial Library when he was a sixth grader.

“This neighborhood became a neighborhood of great hope and dreams,” Morial said. “This was a village that truly looked out for you.”

Former New Orleans Mayor Marc Morial served as a guest lecture during AfricanAmerican History Month at SUNO.

During his speech, he credited the New Orleans Recreation Department (currently known as the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission) for shaping his youth.

“The NORD program gave you the chance to travel all around the city and go to other neighborhoods,” Morial added. “It was an incredible learning experience.”

Several Pontchartrain Park seniors attended the event, which also featured musical selections from the St. Mary’s Academy School Choir.

Other African-American History Month events included the Afro-Carnival Ball and the Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes: “Exploring the History of the Skull & Bones Gang” museum exhibit.

St. Mary’s Academy Choir performed at the Charles Frye Memorial Lecture at SUNO on Feb. 19, 2018.

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COVER STORY

Southern University breaks ground on Valdry Center for Philanthropy Benefactors present gift of additional $1M

(From left with shovels) Domoine Rutledge, SU Board of Supervisors and SU System Foundation board member; Alfred Harrell, SU System Foundation CEO; Ray L. Belton, SU System president-chancellor; Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome; Zenobia Valdry; Darrell Valdry; Warren Valdry, benefactor and alumnus; Virginia Valdry, benefactor and alumnus; Leon Valdry, benefactor and alumnus; Carol Lexing; Ann Smith, SU Board of Supervisors chair; and Fred Banks, SU System Foundation chair.

On March 17, 2018, Southern University officials, alumni and supporters, along with community leaders, convened to celebrate the establishment of the University’s Valdry Center for Philanthropy. Despite sporadic rain, the groundbreaking ceremony commenced on campus.

“The sun is clearly shining on Southern University today,” said Ray L. Belton, Southern University System president and Baton Rouge campus chancellor.

The Valdry Center, slated for completion by early 2019, is an academically based research center focused on philanthropic studies and nonprofit management. The center seeks to educate the socially conscious student, volunteer, and practitioner in the emerging field of philanthropic studies through exploring the economic, historical, and philosophical rationales for voluntary action in the local, national, and international arenas.

Programming for the degree in philanthropic studies — to be awarded by Southern’s Nelson Mandela School of Government and Social Sciences — will begin fall 2018.

“This is a great opportunity for students for generations to come,” said Warren Valdry, one of the benefactors for the center. “We (Southern) will be a university system unmatched by any other in the nation.”

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The center is inspired by the alumnus and his wife, Virginia, and his brother, Leon, who are also alumni. The family has collectively made sizeable contributions to the Southern University System Foundation (SUSF) for more than 50 years. They continued that tradition by gifting the University with a $1M check at the ceremony.

“It is apparent that they (Valdry family) truly bleed blue and gold,” Belton said.

Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome, expressed the importance of giving back and the need for a successful Southern University locally and beyond.

“Southern University is part of the fabric not only but America as a historically black college,” Broome said.

Also in attendance for the festivities were Ann Smith, Southern University Board of Trustees chairwoman; current and past Southern University Foundation board members; and board members and representatives of the Southern University Alumni Federation.

According to Alfred Harrell, SUSF Foundation CEO, the Kellogg Foundation funded the feasibility study for the project. Also, local nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations have committed to SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

COVER STORY offering support to the center and its initiatives.

Ray L. Belton, president-chancellor of the Southern University System, addresses the audience at the groundbreaking.

Warren Valdry, 1959 graduate of Southern University, brings greetings on behalf of his family at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Valdry groundbreaking on March 17, 2018.

Proposed Valdry Center Classroom Leon Valdry (left), 1957 graduate of Southern University, presents a $1 million gift to Alfred Harrell, (center), chief executive officer of the Southern University System Foundation, and Fred L. Banks, SU System Foundation board chair, during the groundbreaking on March 17, 2018.

Boardroom

SPRING/SUMMER 2018

Valdry Center Lobby

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VISIT US ONLINE @ VCP.SUS.EDU OR Scan the QR Code to REGISTER TODAY

Connecting HBCUs: Methods, Strategies, and Best Practices Date: Tuesday, August 21, 2018 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Daniel Moss

Chief People Person HBCU Connect, LLC Executive Director and Chairman The HBCU Foundation

Course Offered Online

Growing Endowments: Why and How? Date: Wednesday, September 12, 2018 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 John Davies President and CEO Baton Rouge Area Foundation

Course Offered Online

HBCU Programming: Creating and Directing Effective Grant-Making Programs Date: Tuesday, October 16, 2018 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Lorenzo L. Esters Vice President, Philanthropy Strada Education Network

HBCU Programming: Writing Strong And Effective Grant Proposals Alethea E. Gaddis Advisor Gaddis Foundation 4 Kids/HBCU Foundation

Course/s Offered Online

The Fundamentals of Fundraising Date: Tuesday, October 23-24, 2018 Time: 8:30am-5pm Early Bird Fee: $475 Onsite Registration: $510 CFRE Refresher Course Date: Thursday, October 25, 2018 Time: 8am-5pm Early Bird Fee: $475 Onsite Registration: $565 Beverly Brooks Thompson President and Executive Counsel Brooks Thompson Consulting

Course are Not Offered Online

Capital Campaigns: Capital Campaigns In The Louisiana Context Date: Wednesday, November 13, 2018 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Kelly Pepper President and CEO Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations (LANO)

Capital Campaigns: Mounting Capital Campaigns at HBCUs Phillip L. Clay Former Chancellor - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Professor of Housing Policy and City Planning - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Member - Kresge Foundation Board of Trustees

Course/s Offered Online

Developing Successful Grant-Making Programs: Lessons Learned From The Foundation for the Mid South Date: Tuesday, January 22, 2019 Time: 9am-11am Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Ivye Allen President Foundation for the Mid South

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Course Offered Online

Nonprofit/Organizational Capacity Building: Designing A Written Fundraising Plan Date: Tuesday, February 12, 2019 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Nora Ellersten Founder and CEO The Funding Seed

Nonprofit/Organizational Capacity Building: Diversifying Revenue Streams: How? Why? To What Extent?

Sarah Cortell Vanderypen Founder and Consultant Philanthropic Partners

Nonprofit/Organizational Capacity Building: Building Strong Nonprofit Boards and Respecting Donor Intent Doug White Columbia University Fundraising Management Graduate Program

Course/s Offered Online Faith-Based Programming: Growing the Base of Parishioners and Engaging with Other Nonprofit Organizations Date: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 Time: 9am-11am, Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Cory Sparks Pastor - Faith Community United Methodist Church Director - Institute for Nonprofit Excellence, Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations (LANO)

Faith-Based Programming: Giving to Congregations: What We Know and Why it Matters David P. King Karen Lake Buttrey Director Lake Institute on Faith & Giving, Indiana University

Faith-Based Programming: Pathways to a Culture of Generosity. The Power of Black Philanthropy and the Intersection Between Faith and Giving AimĂŠe Laramore Consultant and Philanthropic Strategist Christian Theological Seminary

Course/s Offered Online Finding Organizations To Support In Your Community Date: Tuesday, April 2, 2019 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 James W. Head President and CEO East Bay Community Foundation (EBCF) Named the 2018 James A. Joseph Lecturer by the Association of Black Foundation Executives

Course Offered Online

Building Giving Circles - Social Justice Funding in the World of Philanthropy Date: Wednesday, May 7, 2019 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Teresa C. Younger President and CEO Ms. Foundation for Women

Investing in Black-led Social Change to Build Institutional Power Date: Tuesday, June 4, 2019 Time: 2pm-4pm Early Bird Fee: $150 Onsite Registration: $200 Susan Taylor Batten President and CEO

Course Offered Online

SU moves forward with medical marijuana program

Seated, from left to right: Chad Bodin, Advanced Biomedics co-owner; Carrol Castille, Advanced Biomedics co-owner; Ann Smith, SU System Board of Supervisors chair; Ray L. Belton, SU System president-chancellor; and Bobby Fields, SU Ag Center chancellor-dean.

Standing, from left to right: Randy P. Angelle, legal counsel to Carrol Castille; Andra Johnson, SU Ag Center vice chancellor for research; Gerald McGee, Advanced Biomedics production manager; Aymbriana Campbell, executive assistant to the chancellor-dean of the SU Ag Center; Janana Snowden, SU Ag professor and project lead; James Ammons, SU System executive vice president; Winston DeCuir Jr., counsel for the SU System; Leroy Davis, SU System Board member; and Katara Williams, SU System chief of staff.

Southern University received the green light to move forward with its medical marijuana program.

The Southern University Board of Supervisors approved a contract with Advanced Biomedics, LLC, with a 12–3 vote, during its regular meeting on May 25, 2018.

Under the agreement, the Southern University Ag Center will receive more than $6 million over five years. The University’s contract with Advanced Biomedics will be allowed to automatically renew for two additional five year periods unless there is cause to terminate. The company has also agreed to provide the Center with an additional $1 million signing bonus for each additional contract term.

Advanced Biomedics, LLC will also support research initiatives through the Southern University Ag Center’s Southern Institute of Medicinal Plants (SIMP), directed by Janana Snowden.

“This is a momentous event. We are extremely excited to be able to provide good quality medicine for the citizens of Louisiana,” said Bobby R. Phills, chancellor of the SU Ag Center and dean of the College of Agricultural, Family and Consumer Sciences.

“This groundbreaking research opportunity will also provide revenue for the University and economic development in North Baton Rouge.”

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“This groundbreaking research opportunity will also provide revenue for the University and economic development in North Baton Rouge.”

The Southern University Ag Center is currently awaiting the completion of background checks from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

After this process is completed, the University plans to construct a facility on a 176-acre plot of land in Baker. The operation will employ a staff of more than 40 who will be responsible for growing, manufacturing, and distributing pharmaceutical grade medicines from the cannabis plant.

Products will be available in dispensaries throughout the state in early 2019.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SU art museums display artifacts of important cultures Museum at SUBR to reopen for public to explore African and African-American treasures

After being closed for major renovations and repairs, the Southern University Museum of Art (SUMA) is set to reopen this fall, with the opening of an exhibit of the works of internationally renowned artist Romare Bearden. Bearden is best known for his colorful collages that depict the essence of the Black Experience.

According to director Vivian Kerr, patrons will be pleased with the updates that were part of the work that kept Harvey Hall and the museum closed for the past several months.

“We will resume our fixed collections and will introduce some new art though some exciting new collections that will welcome our guests back to SUMA,” said Kerr.

For more than 17 years, Southern University has provided meaningful learning opportunities for hundreds of visitors to experience the rich heritage of African and African-American history through art housed in public galleries in museums in Baton Rouge and Shreveport.

In March 2001, the Southern University Museum of Art (SUMA) opened on the Baton Rouge campus. The museum showcases an African and African American art collection estimated at $4 million to $5 million. The Southern University Museum of Art project was inspired and lead by former Southern University System President Leon R. Tarver II. Tarver donated 150 works from his personal collection of African art and artifacts, comprised of some pieces amassed during visits to South Africa, to start SUMA’s growing collection.

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Harvey Hall (formerly Martin L. Harvey Chapel), one of the school’s original buildings and part of a National Historic District that runs along a bluff of the Mississippi River on campus, was renovated to house the museum and its diverse collections including donations from William Bertran, a former vice president at Tulane University who donated 144 pieces of African art to the museum; Brooks Cronin, art collector who donated three sculptures by the late Frank Hayden, an internationally known African-American sculptor who spent most of his life in Baton Rouge, and the late James David Smith, an accomplished artist and educator artwork has been exhibited at the Dallas Museum of Fine Art and at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. The Smith donation was part of a $1 million in a gift from the James and Ruth Smith Trust. The endowment was the largest bequest in the University’s history.

The Southern University Museum contains eight galleries. The museum’s store forms the central axis, with four galleries on opposite sides framing the center. Four galleries are dedicated to African-American art with a masters gallery, Louisiana gallery and a gallery containing the works of Southern’s Visual Arts Faculty.

“The Southern University Museum of Art is a major attraction for visitors in Baton Rouge,” said Paul J. Arrigo, president and CEO of Visit Baton Rouge.

SUMA’s mission is to assure that the art, artifacts, and other treasured works of Africans, African-Americans, and their descendants are accessible to the community in an organized and cherished collection, in a place of historic significance on Southern University System campuses.

On the heels of success of the museum in Baton Rouge, The Southern University Museum of Art at Shreveport (SUMAS) opened in February 2002. SUMAS is located at 610 Texas Street, Suite 110, on the first floor of the SUSLA Metro Center in the West Edge Arts District of downtown Shreveport.

SUMAS features African-American art from the permanent collection of the Southern University Museum of Art in Baton Rouge.

SUMA Southern University Museum of Art Reopening Exhibit MATURE WORKS: Rend, Recollect, Reconnect, and Repurpose Selected works from the collection of Michael K. and Marian E. Butler Featuring the works of internationally renowned artist Romare Bearden.

Runs September 6, 2018 through December 6, 2018 ROMARE BEARDEN September 2, 1911 – March 12, 1988 Hours: Monday - Friday from 10:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. and weekends by special appointment.

For more information or to schedule a group tour, call 225-771-4513 or 225-771-4691.

SUMAS June 2018 Black Music Month Exhibit featuring the Wilbur Pryor Sr. Music Collection Opening Reception: June 7, 2018, 5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.

Runs June 7 - June 30, 2018 July 2018 Annual Summer Exhibit featuring visual and jewelry artist Connie Stephens Opening Reception: July 5, 2018 Runs July -August 2018 Hours: Tuesday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday -10 a.m. - Noon For more information or to schedule a group tour, call 318-670-9631.

Admission is FREE for both museums.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Above and Beyond The Southern University System values its faculty and staff. Each month, the Board of Supervisors recognizes them as a part of our “Above and Beyond� award recipients.

(left-right) Ray L. Belton, SU System president-chancellor; Brittany Jacque, SUPD; Spencer Carter, traffic and safety officer; Ann Smith, Board chair; and Donald Henry, Board vice chair.

Ray L. Belton (left), SU System president-chancellor and John Oubre, SU System/SUBR photographer.

(left-right) Roman Banks, athletics director; Ray L. Belton, SU System president-chancellor; Welton Bowie, F.G. Clark Activity Center facility supervisor; Sandra Bowie; Ann Smith, Board chair; and Donald Henry, Board vice chair.

(left-right) Ray L. Belton, Ann Smith, Graylin Hammond, administrative specialist for the Office of the President-Chancellor, and Donald Henry.

(left-right) Ray L. Belton; Marcus Brown, multimedia specialist; Ann Smith; Alice Douzier, IT project manager; Clourth Wilson, assistant director of IT; and Donald Henry, Board vice chair.

Join the SU Alumni Federation mailing list!

Just send your email address by text message: Text

SUALUM

to 22828 to get started.

Message and data rates may apply.

’Tis the (SUAF Crawfish) Season Our Southern alumni love to fellowship and eat a Louisiana delicacy — crawfish. Each year, various SU Alumni Federation chapters around the country host crawfish boils and scholarship fundraisers.

Southern University Alumni Federation- Dallas, Texas chapter.

Southern University Alumni Federation- Houston, Texas chapter

Southern University Alumni Federation- Houston, Texas chapter.

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Southern University Alumni Federation- Dallas, Texas chapter.

Southern University Alumni Home Chapter- Baton Rouge.

Southern University Alumni Federation- Houston, Texas chapter.

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#WeAreSouthern SHOWCASES THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE UP THE ONLY HBCU SYSTEM IN THE NATION From the Crescent City to the banks of the Mississippi to the northern tip of Louisiana, Southern University campuses thrive and welcome students from all walks of life. Lawyers, health care professionals, educators, agricultural experts, journalists and more have matriculated at one or more of our five unique campuses. You simply cannot travel the U.S. or abroad without meeting someone connected to Southern. This is why we have launched the system-wide “We Are Southern� branding and recruitment campaign.

We will showcase the opportunities and proven results of Southern University Baton Rouge, Southern University New Orleans, Southern University Shreveport, Southern University Law Center and Southern University Ag Center.

media. We encourage you to be involved by using #WeAreSouthern on your shares of positive news about our campuses and students, as well as your personal news that reflects the greatness of Southern. We know that Southern is more than buildings and programs. It is the people.

On these pages, you will see some new and familiar faces as we take you behind the scenes of our student profiles and a commercial featuring both alumni and students. They represent what makes our Dear Southern what it is today and what it can be tomorrow. They are Southern. We are Southern.

Throughout this year, you will see this campaign come alive through digital and traditional

AGRICULTURE

ENGINEERING

STUDENT LIFE

SU BAND

LAW SCHOOL

NURSING

STUDENT LIFE

SU SYSTEM ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS

Nearly 200 SU athletes earn 3.0 and above GPA Princess Stark; Women’s Track & Field’s Paizley Armstrong and Ambrosia Williams; Women’s Tennis’ Nicki Neal; Softball’s Sydney Andrews, Jaslyn Perrodin, and Adriane Roberson; Soccer’s Khadijah Ahmad, Nasheka Doyley, Abby Farias, Desirae George-McCool, Kendra Lewis, Jessica Persico, and Nickesha Williamson; Bowling’s Brielle Dean, Amber Perez, and Morgan Zachmeyer; Men’s Track and Field’s Derrick Garner; Baseball’s Markalyon Boyd, Justin Freeman, Jacob Juge, Tyler LaPorte, Franky Montesino, Tyler Robinson, Tristan Rojas, Wayne Templet, and Ashanti Wheatley; Football’s Ki-Jana Curtis, Herbert Edwards, Benjamin Harris, Elijah Jordan, David Kennerson, Maverick May, Skyler Prol, Deaelon Richardson, and Terrance Simon.

Southern University Athletics recognized 160 student-athletes who earned at or above a 3.0 grade-point average (GPA), as well as 28 student-athletes who received diplomas at the conclusion of the Fall 2017 semester.

SU posted impressive honor roll numbers in football (53 studentathletes), baseball (26), soccer (16), softball (10), volleyball (10), bowling (6), and women’s tennis (4).

More than half of football’s 105-man roster logged a 3.0 GPA or better this fall, while volleyball and softball placed 80 percent; baseball, softball, soccer and tennis at 70 percent; followed by women’s bowling, women’s cross-country, and men’s cross country at 60 percent respectively. Of the 290 student-athletes, 160 (55 percent) achieved a 3.0 GPA last fall. The cumulative departmental GPA of all student-athletes was a 3.05, and it marked the first semester in recorded history it was above 3.0.

“It is fitting that, following a banner year with regard to APR, our student-athletes have continued that positive momentum by reaching even greater heights scholastically. This cohort of student-athletes continues to shape the narrative of academic excellence within Southern Athletics and are to be commended.

This semester’s achievements and the number of seniors that have graduated is also a testament to our academic staff, the faculty, and the coaches who place academic success at the forefront of the college athletics experience,” said executive associate athletic director Trayvean Scott.

Student-athletes who posted perfect GPA’s include: Volleyball’s Mariah Clayton; Women’s Tennis’ Rufaro Chirewa; Soccer’s Chloe Sims, Brianna Thomas, and Tiffany White; Bowling’s Colleen Cheramie; Women’s Basketball’s Rishonti Cowart; Men’s Track and Field’s Wallace Smith; and Football’s Danny Johnson.

Additionally, 28 student-athletes received baccalaureate degrees during the fall 2017 commencement exercises highlighted by volleyball student-athlete and team captain, Mariah Clayton who was honored as a magna cum laude graduate and studentmarshal for the Nelson Mandela College of Government and Social Sciences.

“I am so proud of these young men and women,” said director of athletics Roman Banks. “They have responded to the challenge of being champions in the classroom. To be able to say that over half of our student-athletes are Dean’s List or above is one of the greatest things an athletics administrator can say. We are proud of the way our student-athletes continue to represent our great institution both on and off the field.”

Forty-one Jaguars and Lady Jaguars made the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll by posting 3.5 or above grade point averages last fall including volleyball’s Vaterra Calais, Paige Hall, Troi Jefferson, Holaimona Johnson, Shelby Jolly, Imani Litz, and

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SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SU SYSTEM ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS Volleyball 3.28 team GPA. 5th consecutive semester above 3.0; 80 percent on Dean’s List, with seven volleyball student-athletes making the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll led by Senior Mariah Clayton who posted a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Fall 2017 Graduates Baseball Rivers Frederick (Interdisciplinary Studies), Dondrayas Harris (Interdisciplinary Studies), Marcus Hodge (Electrical Engineering), Theodore Perkins (History), John Pope III (Criminal Justice) Almann Snowden (Mechanical Engineering), Phillip Williams (Accounting)

Football

FALL 2017 HIGHLIGHTS Baseball 3.0 team GPA. 26 baseball student-athletes made Dean’s List with nine making the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll.

Bowling 3.29 team GPA. 60 percent of the roster made Dean’s List honor roll, with three making the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll.

Joshua Allen (Interdisciplinary Studies), Dillon Beard (Criminal Justice), Jamal Boulden (Management), Steve Brignac (Criminal Justice), Cleveland Clark (Sociology), Austin Howard (Criminal Justice), Danny Johnson (Criminal Justice), Randall Menard (Criminal Justice), Skylor Prol (Interdisciplinary Studies), Terrance Simon (Psychology), Aaron Tiller (Management)

Men’s Basketball Jared Sam (Interdisciplinary Studies)

Football

Men’s Track & Field

Fifty-three of the 105-man roster earned a 3.00 or higher, with nine football student-athletes making the Athletic Director’s Honor Roll. Senior Danny Johnson posted a perfect 4.0 GPA for the Fall 2017 semester.

Softball

Men’s Track & Field Six student-athletes made the Dean’s List led by freshman Wallace Smith, who posted a perfect 4.0 GPA for the Fall 2017 semester.

Soccer 3.20 team GPA. 70 percent made the Dean’ List Honor Roll or above with Chloe Sims, Brianna Thomas, and Tiffany White all posting perfect 4.0 GPAs for the Fall 2017 semester.

Tennis 3.32 team GPA. 9th consecutive semester above 3.0; 70 percent made the Dean’s List Honor Roll or above led by Rufaro Chirewa who posted a perfect 4.0 GPA for the Fall 2017 semester.

SPRING/SUMMER 2018

Lorne Abby (Nursing) Sydney Andrews (Management)

Women’s Basketball Kadesha Berry (Interdisciplinary Studies), Maiya Crowder (Criminal Justice)

Women’s Soccer Shelby Carbin (Civil Engineering), Ayanna Williams (Management)

Women’s Track & Field Maiya Miles (Therapeutic Recreation)

Volleyball *Mariah Clayton (Psychology), Melody Malone (Elementary Education)

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SU SYSTEM ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS Lady Knights win 2018 NAIA Outdoor National Championship placing second in the women’s 400-meter relay. The team of Scott, Brooks-Gillings, Pennie and Bolton went 46.12 to take silver in the event.

Bolton, who was named the 2018 GCAC Women’s Track Athlete of the Year, returned to the track for the women’s 100-meter dash, hitting 11.72 to take silver behind Lindsey Wilson’s Safia Bright. Bolton would go on to place first in the women’s 200-meter dash Smikle, who led the NAIA in the women’s 400-meter hurdles, crushed her season best 1:00.34 in the event, taking gold at nationals in 57.63. Teammate Shantae Green finished fourth in the event with a time of 1:00.39.

The SUNO Lady Knights Field and Track team won the 2018 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Outdoor Track and Field Chanpionship.

The SUNO Lady Knights won the 2018 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Outdoor Track & Field Championship May 24-26, 2018 in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

The team of eight Lady Knights (Shadae Hylton, Kerry Ann Scott, Oshin Brooks-Gillings, Chantal Pennie, Argyana Bolton, Xuxa Peart, Kimona Smikle, Shantae Green) won the National Championship with 64 points including first place in the 4x400m relay, 200m, 400m hurdles, 400m and second place in the 100m and 4x100m relay. This is SUNO’s first national track championship since 1997 under Coach Artis Davenport.

In addition, Track Coach Younne Reid received National Coach of the Year honors.

The Lady Knights were masterful in each event in which they competed during the finals, earning a total of 64 points in just six events to take the NAIA’s top title. The Lady Knights bested the University of British Columbia Thunderbirds by a mere two points, though the Thunderbirds fielded athletes in two more events than did Southern.

Hylton, who was the heavy favorite in the women’s 400-meter dash and was recently named the 2018 U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) Southern Women’s Track Athlete of the Year, did not disappoint. Hylton, a senior, ran a personal best 52.66 to place first. Xuxa Peart, a freshman, placed sixth in the event with a time of 55.69.

Finally, the women’s 1600-meter relay team of Bolton, Peart, Hylton, and Smikle went 3:40.15 to take gold over rivals Wiley College and Wayland Baptist, both of whom were within a few points of overtaking the Knights with a first-place finish in the championship’s final event.

The Lady Knights took one of the top three spots in each of the events in which they competed, clearing the path for their championship win.

The day was not without other notable performances from Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) student-athletes. Edward Waters’ Carl Elliott III was named an NAIA All-American in the men’s 110-meter hurdles, placing 4th in the event. Elliott ran 14.27 to beat his 5th place finish in 2017. Elliott ran 14.35 that year.

Content provided by the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference.

Despite multiple rain delays due to Tropical Storm Alberto, the Lady Knights proved to be the true force of nature, dominating their opponents in each of the sprints. They began the day by

SPRING/SUMMER 2018

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Louisiana Small Business Development Center Southern University and A&M College TRANSFORM YOUR BUSINESS WITH HELP FROM THE LSBDC!

We offer high-quality technical assistance to existing and start-up small businesses, and to small business entrepreneurs in Louisiana

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT - Develop Strategic Plans - Create Growth Strategies - Expand into domestic or international markets - Identify government contracting and procurement opportunities

MARKET RESEARCH

- Determine business feasibility - Examine industry and customer trends - Analyze competitive environment

STRATEGIC MARKETING

- Develop sustainable business model - Project cash flow and capital requirements - Forecast sales and expenses - Identify sources of funding - Prepare loan packages and get "bank ready" - Develop Pro Forma financial statements

BUSINESS FINANCE

- Create sales and marketing strategies - Evaluate online presence - Identify digital marketing resources - Improve branding

BUSINESS TRAINING

- Sales & Market expansion - Online and traditional marketing - Accounting and finance - E-Commerce - Risk Management - Business Management - And More...

MISSION To facilitate the formation and growth of small businesses through individual oneon-one consulting services, entrepreneurial workshops and training programs. We provide the business education and information resources to help develop Louisiana’s economy.

Website: www.lsbdc.org

Phone (225) 771-2891

Email: lsbdc.subr@lsbdc.org

The Louisiana Small Business Development Center is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Louisiana Economic Development, and participating universities.

SU SYSTEM ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS

Southern Athletics continues academic turnaround with impressive Academic Progress Rate numbers Southern University Athletics continues its historic academic turnaround as evidenced by the latest NCAA Academic Progress Rate (APR) Public Report.

For the first time in history, all SU athletic teams are eligible for NCAA postseason play in 2018-19 after a comprehensive effort spearheaded by the Athletics Office of Compliance and Student Services. The SU Men’s Cross Country and Women’s bowling teams both earned perfect scores of 1,000, with Women’s Tennis posting a perfect APR score of 1,000 for the second consecutive year. While Baseball (959), Women’s Cross Country (974), Women’s Soccer (974), Women’s Track and Field (966), Women’s Basketball (955), and Volleyball (955) all posted scores of 950 or higher.

Other programs that posted at or above the 930 benchmark include Men’s Track and Field (940), Football (938), Softball (935), and Men’s Basketball (932).

Southern University Athletics was also awarded 10 delayed graduation points for the 2016-2017 academic cycle. Delayed graduation points are points earned for a student-athlete who has lost a point at any time during their matriculation or did not graduate in 10 semesters.

“It is a credit to our student-athletes that the annual NCAA Academic Progress Rates continue to reflect a high level of commitment to academic achievement,” said Trayvean Scott, Southern’s executive athletic director. “Our administration, academic and compliance staffs, coaches, and faculty members across campus, and our student-athletes all deserve to share in what has become an historic turnaround. Moving forward, our goal is for Southern University Athletics to continue to be a leader on the national academic stage.”

The APR holds institutions accountable for the academic progress of their student-athletes through a team-based metric that accounts for the eligibility and retention of each studentathlete for each academic term. Currently, teams must earn a 930 four-year average APR or a 940 average over the most recent two years to participate in NCAA championships. In 2015-16 and beyond, teams must earn a four-year APR of 930 to compete in championships. While the APR is intended as an incentive-based approach, it does come with a progression of penalties for teams that under-perform academically over time such as a reduction in practice and competition hours, increased academic activities and postseason bans.

“I am extremely proud of our students’ achievements and our athletics staff that ensures ‘student’ comes first in ‘studentathlete’,” said Ray L. Belton, Southern University System presidentchancellor. “We look forward to continued success in their academic and athletic endeavors.”

Roman Banks, athletics director, echoed Belton’s sentiments.

“It is definitely an exciting time,” Banks said. “This is the first time since I have been here that all of our teams have met the APR benchmark. Like any athletic success story, the ongoing positive APR reports are the result of a team effort, starting with our student services staff and the coaches who recruit quality student-athletes and emphasize that academics will be priority at Southern University.”

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SU SYSTEM ATHLETIC HIGHLIGHTS

Southern University Athletics announces five-year partnership with Under Armour, BSN Sports The Southern University Department of Athletics recently announced that it has entered into a five-year partnership with Under Armour through BSN SPORTS. The agreement is part of BSN SPORTS Collegiate Select program, which aims to make BSN SPORTS a one-stop provider for all collegiate athletic, intramural, club and staff apparel and equipment to all NCAA Divison I, II, III, NJCAA and NAIA schools.

The multi-year deal through Under Armour and BSN Sports, which is scheduled to run through the 2022-23 season, will outfit the Jaguars’ 15 intercollegiate sports programs with custom uniforms, apparel, footballs, and other accessories. Along with serving as the official apparel provider for athletics, Under Armour, BSN Sports and Southern have agreed to service the entire Southern University System, including the marching band and SU Cheerleaders.

“Under Armour’s mission to be a global leader through innovation coincides with the University’s commitment to excellence,” said Roman

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Banks, Southern University director of athletics. “This partnership also allows us to fully expand the brand recognition of Southern University and the Jaguar Nation. We are extremely excited to be a part of the Under Armour and BSN Sports family.”

The agreement includes numerous incentives in the form of discounts and rewards along with incentives for on-field achievements and additional marketing and promotional opportunities.

“We are excited to partner with Southern University and Under Armour in elevating the performance and impact of their athletics program,” said Todd Northrop, vice president of BSN Collegiate Select.

“This strategic partnership provides the finest apparel and athletic products to the (Southern) athletic teams and benefits student-athletes representing the community on the athletic field or court. We are proud to be their partner and pleased that we can elevate the studentathlete experience.”

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

Three SU students chosen for inaugural Governor’s Fellows Program

Kobie Lain

Regina Mungwe

Tanisha Pruitt

Gov. John Bel Edwards announced 10 college students who have been chosen to participate in the inaugural Governor’s Fellows Program in Louisiana Government. This is an opportunity for the students to gain first-hand knowledge about the development and implementation of public policy as well as the state’s rich history and current affairs of Louisiana government.

Kobie Lain is assigned to the Secretary Shawn Wilson with the Department of Transportation and Development. He is a senior from Fayetteville, Georgia. Kobie is majoring in political science. He is a quarterback for the football team and served as the Junior Class Chief of Staff of the Student Government Association from 20172018. Kobie is interested in urban planning and progressive economic development.

Regina Mungwe will be working with Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc at the Department of Public Safety and Correction. Regina is a public policy and urban affairs Ph.D. candidate at Southern University, and is from Cameroon. Regina received her bachelors’ in law from the University of Buea in Cameroon, and she received her master’s in criminal justice from Southern University. Regina is a research scholar with the International Center for Information Technology and Development at Southern University. She also has experience as an International Relations Officer for Giving Life Nature, a non-governmental organization in Ghana. Regina is interested in cyber security and its role in the labor force.

Tanisha Pruitt has been assigned to intern with executive director Ava Dejoie at the Louisiana Workforce Commission. She is a public policy Ph.D. candidate at Southern University, and is from Columbus, Ohio.

Tanisha received her bachelors’ in sociology from Miami University and her master’s in applied behavioral science from Wright State University. Tanisha is also a research scholar with the International Center for Information Technology and Development, as well as a member of the Northeastern Educational Research Association and the Black Law Enforcement Organization. Tanisha is the co-founder and president of The Nelson Mandela Institute for Research at Southern University. Tanisha is interested in educational policy and criminal justice reform.

SPRING/SUMMER 2018

Leading tech company DXC opens in New Orleans; Southern among public institutions to receive $25M to increase STEM grads Thanks to a new technology company and a state investment, STEM careers are even more accessible for Southern University students.

In conjunction with DXC Technology and New Orleans, the State of Louisiana is funding a $25 million higher education initiative to expand the number of degrees awarded annually in computer science, management, and STEM-related fields (science, technology, engineering and math). The SU System, along with Louisiana State University System, University of Louisiana System, and the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, will guide the initiative through their campuses. Patterned after prior software and IT initiatives in Louisiana, the DXC Technology project represents the state’s largest single higher-education investment in a private-sector workforce partnership.

“This is a wonderful initiative that will benefit our students across our campuses and a great increase to our graduation rate in STEM,” said Ray L. Belton, Southern University System president-chancellor.

“STEM drives this country and world, and our students will be able to join the many sectors that those disciplines impact on a larger scale.”

The arrival of DXC Technology, formed in April 2017 by the merger of CSC and the Enterprise Services Division of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, cements Louisiana’s position as one of the fastest-growing software and IT destinations in the U.S., following major projects

by EA, CenturyLink, IBM, CSRA, CGI, GE Digital and others in the past decade. DXC will hire approximately 300 IT and business enterprise professionals during 2018, then ramp up to 2,000 jobs over five years and an annual payroll exceeding $133 million by 2025.

“In a rigorous competition for this Fortune 500 company’s largest Digital Transformation Center, our state succeeded because we offer an extraordinary city in its Tricentennial year and an exceptional higher education partnership,” said Gov. John Bel Edwards. “New Orleans, the state of Louisiana and DXC Technology will create an innovative path for great careers in the digital economy.”

In addition to 2,000 new direct jobs, Louisiana Economic Development estimates the project will result in 2,257 new indirect jobs, for a total of more than 4,250 new jobs in the state’s Southeast Region. Company officials identified New Orleans as a talent-laden, culturally diverse, high quality-of-life city that would appeal to the technology professionals it will hire for the Digital Transformation Center. DXC serves nearly 6,000 major clients across 70 countries, and the New Orleans center will support a global clientele.

Louisiana Economic Development contributed to this article.

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Southern University Shreveport receives $1.3 million in grant funding for Veterans Upward Bound Program Southern University Shreveport has been awarded $1.3 million to implement the Veterans Upward Bound Program (VUB).

Pictured from left, Rodney A. Ellis, chancellor of SUSLA; Brig. Gen. Jonathan Ellis, mobility assistant to the Eighth Air Force Commander; Leslie Quinn, director of constituent services and special projects for Mike Johnson, U.S. Congressman, LA. 4th District; Kenneth R. Epperson Sr., director of the NWLA Veterans Cemetery; Melva Williams, vice chancellor for student affairs and VUB program director; Reta T. Stewart, director of Educational Opportunity Centers and executive director of Adult Education Services; and Tuesday W. Mahoney, assistant vice chancellor for college access and student affairs and enrollment management.

VUB is a U.S. Department of Education program designed to help veterans refresh their academic skills and give them the confidence needed to successfully complete their choice of postsecondary degrees. The primary goal of SUSLA’s VUB program is to increase the rate at which veterans enroll in and complete post-secondary education programs. Through the VUB program, SUSLA will provide classes for veterans that have put off pursuing a college education. The program will also provide wrap-around services to assist participants in securing support from other locally available resources; offer assessment, counseling, mentoring, tutoring, and offer academic instruction and training in core subject areas required for the demanding job market.

SUSLA receives $175,000 from Caddo Parish Commissions to support workforce education University aims to increase number of local residents completing high-skill programs Southern University Shreveport is the recipient of $175,000 from the Parish of Caddo to support workforce education initiatives. For approximately seven years, Caddo Parish has supported SUSLA as it provides a direct workforce pipeline to business and industry through its educational programs. SUSLA previously received Parish dollars to establish the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) and to support the Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) programs. Specific outcomes of the 2018 project include: increased number of Caddo residents enrolled in and

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completing high skill programs that lead to self-sufficiency; multiple entry points into career sector pathways; adequate infrastructure for expansion/implantation of technical education programs of study, and improved opportunities for success for educationally underprepared and recently incarcerated individuals.

The support of Caddo Parish has been critical to the development of new programs and the ability to sustain and enhance exiting program. Stephanie Graham, director of Sponsored Programs, in collaboration with Janice B. Sneed, vice chancellor for community and workforce development, prepared the grant application for funding.

SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SUSLA breaks ground on Milam Street Kitchen Incubator and Community Kitchen

Pictured from left, James Flurry, city councilman District E; Jeff Everson, city councilman District B; Shreveport Mayor Ollie Tyler; Rodney A. Ellis, chancellor of Southern University at Shreveport; Bonnie Moore, director of community development, City of Shreveport; Janice Sneed, vice chancellor for community and workforce development; Janet Mentesane, executive director of MLK Health Center and Pharmacy; Sam Jenkins, state representative District 2; Bobby Collins, executive director of the Shreveport Housing Authority; and Matthew Linn, Caddo commissioner District 4

Southern University Shreveport, in cooperation with the City of Shreveport and the Shreveport Housing Authority broke ground on the Milam Street Kitchen Incubator and Community Kitchen (KICK) in November 2017. The facility will be located at 1201 Milam Street (Corner or Milam and Christian) in Shreveport.

The project falls under the Choice Neighborhoods Transformation Plan, which was made possible under HUD’s Choice Neighborhood Planning and Action Activities Grant in 2016. Anticipated to open in 2018, KICK aims to help revitalize the Allendale/Ledbetter Heights neighborhoods by providing wrap-around services to businesses in the culinary arts and food production industries. KICK will function as a kitchen incubator/workforce development hybrid to connect

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entrepreneurship, culinary workforce training, wellness, and economic opportunities. The project will include a commercial kitchen, office space, meeting space, classrooms, and a flex-space cafĂŠ/restaurant. Additionally, the project will create a connection between healthcare professionals and neighborhood residents through the platform of food and wellness, and bring the community together through hosted events.

Other partners for this project are MLK Health Center and Pharmacy, Southern University Ag Center, LSU Ag Center, Choice Neighborhoods Advisory Board, and MS-KICK Advisory Board.

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Southern University alumna appointed as Commissioner of Higher Education for Louisiana “I’m passionate about this work because I consider it to be part of my DNA. I’m here because this is my home agency here in Louisiana,” Reed said. “A good commissioner ensures that opportunity for all isn’t just a compelling statement, but it is a reality.”

Reed’s background is deeply woven in higher education and public policy. Presently, she works as the executive director of the Colorado Department of Education. Prior to this post, she served in President Barack Obama’s administration as deputy undersecretary at the U.S. Department of Education, leading the postsecondary education diversity and inclusion work. She also led the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Kimberly Hunter Reed (pictured above) has been chosen as the Commissioner in Higher Education for Louisiana.

Photo from the Colorado Department of Higher Education.

The Louisiana Board of Regents appointed Kimberly Hunter Reed as the state’s ninth commissioner of higher education.

Reed, a Southern University graduate, will provide collaborative leadership with the presidents of Louisiana’s four systems of public postsecondary education — Southern, Louisiana State University, University of Louisiana, and Louisiana Community and Technical College System. She will lead Regents’ efforts of statewide academic planning and review, budgeting and performance funding, research, and accountability.

A Lake Charles native, Reed is no stranger to Louisiana higher education. She chaired the state’s higher education transition team in 2015 and has served as Louisiana’s state policy director. Earlier, Reed worked at the Louisiana Board of Regents as chief of staff and deputy commissioner for public affairs.

Reed, who received a Ph.D. in public policy from Southern, holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from LSU. Content provided by Louisiana Board of Regents.

SUSLA employee receives appointment by Governor Larry Ferdinand, executive director of continuing education with SUSLA Community and Workforce Development, has been appointed to the Louisiana Public Facilities Authority (LPFA)

by Governor John Bel Edwards.

His appointment term is from September 8, 2017, to September 7, 2022.

“I feel honored to receive Governor Edwards’s appointment to the LPFA Trustee Board because it makes a significant positive impact on economic development statewide, resulting in the creation of thousands of jobs,” Ferdinand said.

According to the LPFA website, the agency also offers free college planning resources to students and parents through the its education division.

Ferdinand is also a licensed real estate broker and veteran of the United States Army.

Larry Ferdinand

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SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

SUBR hosts ‘Tell Them We Are Rising’ screening, town hall On Feb. 7, 2018, Southern University hosted a joint town hall of “Tell Them We Are Rising,” the acclaimed documentary directed

by Stanley Nelson. The film showcases the history of America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Southern University, which is featured prominently throughout the film, held the joint event and advance screening of the documentary along with Grambling State University. The in-person and virtual event was sponsored by Louisiana Public Broadcasting. Between the two campuses, more than 500 were in attendance and heard from Ray Belton, Southern University System president; Rick Gallot, Grambling State University president; State Sen. Regina Ashford Barrow; Joseph Rallo, Louisiana Board of Regents commissioner; and others.

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SUSLA Dental Hygiene Clinic and Miles for Smiles Mobile Dentistry see record number of patients during free event immediately that morning and many stayed until evening to ensure as many patients as possible could be seen.

“This event is a great opportunity for our students to give back to the community while getting the hands on experience with patients that the clinic was created for,” said SUSLA Chancellor Rodney A. Ellis.

SUSLA Dental Hygiene Clinic and Miles for Smiles Mobile Dentistry see record number of patients during free “Dentistry from The Heart” event.

More than 200 people came out on Feb. 17, 2018, to receive free dental care as part of Southern University Shreveport’s first free dental care event. SUSLA Dental Hygiene Clinic partnered with Miles for Smiles mobile dental care and Dentistry from the Heart to host the event for the local community. Volunteer providers began work on patients

Terri Johnson, SUSLA Dental Hygiene Clinic coordinator, and Lynne Eatman, SUSLA dental hygiene director, along with students and volunteer providers were able to provide cleanings to 32 patients in the clinic. Another 82 patients were seen for extractions and fillings. A total of 114 patients were given free care at the event.

Community partners, including David Raines Community Health Center, Project Celebration, MLK Health Center and Pharmacy, Family and Community Engagement-Caddo Parish Schools, LSU and SU Ag centers, Shreveport Green, and the Philadelphia Center also provided valuable information and services. Volunteers from Kappa League, SUSLA Allied Health Programs, STEM, and TRIO helped to manage the crowd and keep the events moving. Community sponsors Brookshire’s, Walmart Neighborhood Store, and Aramark provided food for the participants and volunteers.

Southern University New Orleans dedicates building to social work founder and former dean Millie Charles

Milllie M. Charles was the founder of the SUNO social work program and former dean of the program.

In January, Southern University New Orleans held a ceremony to dedicate the newly constructed social work building to Millie M. Charles, former dean and founder of the University’s social work program The ceremony honoring included blessings by Charles’ daughter, Shkt. H.M.K. Amen and the Rev. Kevin Stephens, interim pastor of Christian Unity Church.

Gloria B. Moultrie and Joseph Bouie presided over the event while Lisa-Mims Devezin, chancellor of Southern University at New Orleans, spoke about Senate Bill 62, which named the School of Social Work in honor of Charles. The bill was sponsored by then-senators Ann Duplessis, Diana Bajoie and Edwin Murray.

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Remarks were made by former Sen. Duplessis; Ann Smith, chair of the Southern University Board of Supervisors; Leonetta Terrell, president of the New Orleans Association of Black Social Workers; and former and current students. Mike Meehan, director of the University’s Satellite Telecommunications Network, presented a video Dean Charles. The ceremony ended with a trumpet rendition of one of her favorite songs, “What a Wonderful World,” played by professor Claude Montegut.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency allocated $82 million to cover the construction costs for the School of Social Work building and three other new buildings. The University broke ground on the $10.2 million, 40,000 squarefoot social work building in November 2015. The building was designed by Waggoner and Ball Architects, and constructed by Lamar Contractors.

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SULC students gain real-world experience at Technology and Entrepreneurship Clinic

Pictured (left to right) Southern University Law School (SULC) students Alecia Robillard and Ariel Harris attend a session at the SULC Technology and Entrepreneurship Clinic (SULC TEC) with SULC professor Mark Thurmon at the Southern University Innovation Center located on the Baton Rouge campus.

The Southern University Innovation Center (SUIC) is home to small business start-ups in the technology, manufacturing, education, healthcare, and service industries. New to the SUIC is the Southern University Law Center Technology and Entrepreneurship Clinic (SULC TEC), which provides free legal services to individuals and small businesses that cannot afford to hire an attorney. The clinic also provides a wide range of legal services to help get businesses up and running, and has a focus on technology-related services, including intellectual property. SULC TEC is a U.S. PTO approved clinic, which means the clinic can file a U.S. patent and trademark applications on behalf of its clients.

SULC law students provide these services under the supervision of law faculty. The SULC TEC provides students the opportunity to put their knowledge and analytical skill-sets to real-world use.

These experiences provide the necessary components that can develop students into “practice-ready” lawyers while helping to fill the gap in otherwise unmet legal and social needs within our community and region.

As SULC students gain real-world experience, they also benefit greatly from the program’s offerings. Alecia Robillard, a spring 2018 SULC graduate, says that the law clinic has allowed her to have practical experience in business entities.

“I was able to assist clients with legal information in regards to starting a new business. Many small businesses run into legal complications in the future because there was a lack of proper legal structure. The clinic provides valuable legal services to patrons who might not be able to afford the costs,” Robillard said.

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Mark Thurmon, Current director/founder and professor, says that SULC TEC has two primary goals.

“First, we seek to better train our students for the practice of law by giving them an opportunity to work with real-world clients under the supervision of a faculty member. Second, and equally important, SULC TEC seeks to foster more small businesses, and especially more technology businesses within the State of Louisiana.

We believe our clinic provides a critical component of the business development ecosystem, and we actively work with a number of other business development organizations to better serve our community,” he said.

Thurman believes that the newly renovated clinic’s location is the perfect place to serve its clients.

“Being in the SUIC provides a number of advantages for us and our clients. First, it is more convenient for most clients than coming to the law center and dealing with main campus parking. Second, the Southern University System Foundation (SUSF) did an excellent job restoring these properties, and that allows us to make a great first impression with our clients. Third, as SUIC gains more startup businesses, we will be located on site with those businesses to help them with legal issues as they arise. The Baton Rouge North Economic Development District recently located at SUIC, and our clinic works with them, which shows how this physical closeness can be beneficial. All of these key functions of our clinic are enhanced and facilitated by our location at SUIC, and that is only possible because of the outstanding work of the Southern University System Foundation,” he explained.

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Continued from page 53 In addition, the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) is located next door to the SUIC. Thurman says that this is yet another increasingly important connection to assisting clients.

“We have been working more with LSBDC to better serve the business development community. We recently did a presentation on intellectual property issues for small businesses, and have three more programs planned with LSBDC this year. Perhaps most importantly, we are getting client referrals from LSBDC on a regular basis now, which allows us to help more small businesses get started and grow.

The Technology and Entrepreneurship Clinic provides free legal services in connection with trademark and patent law issues, as well as services in connection with entity formation/ structuring and some regulatory/licensing issues, for entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and inventor clients with limited financial resources.

Clinic students perform a number of tasks for clients including: assistance with the formation of corporations, limited liability companies, and partnerships, including obtaining tax identification numbers direction on where and how to obtain professional other business-related licenses advice concerning protection of business technology, including nondisclosure agreements practices to

identify technology developments that may warrant legal protection general advice concerning patent and trademark issues, including how to search for patents and trademarks helping small businesses find other resources they need to succeed.

The SUIC project is a collaboration between the Southern University System Foundation (SUSF) and Southern University A&M College. In 2012, the Southern University System Foundation received a grant award of $1.2 million from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to construct the Center for Business Opportunities and Disaster Recovery at Southern University. The building provides business incubation space, entrepreneurial training, and outreach services to small businesses throughout the region. This project supports disaster resiliency through economic diversification. Each disaster recovery investment is intended to support a community’s longterm recovery, spur job creation, leverage private investment, and promote disaster resiliency. The SU Innovation Center programs and services include: The SU Business Incubator, Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC), The Student Idea Village, and The Disaster Recovery Center.

Southern University Alumni Fed. to break ground on new student apartments, alumni center summer 2018 Pursuant to its mission to “support the goals and objectives of the University through recruitment, financial support, public relations, community outreach, talent loyalty, dedication, and commitment to the highest standards,” the Southern University Alumni Federation plans to develop, own, and operate the Southern University Student Housing and Alumni Center Project.

The project will address the need for additional, updated, and market rate housing for students attending Southern University A&M College and Southern University Law Center, as well as to provide much-needed conference, reception, and meeting space for the University, the Law Center, and the Greater Baton Rouge community.

“I am thrilled to have such great corporate, community and university partners,” said Preston Castille, national president of the SUAF. “Without the help of an amazing team of supporters, this project would not be possible.”

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Expected to break ground this summer, the project will include the construction of 147 apartment units of student housing and a 15,000 sq. ft. Alumni Center totaling 183,885 sq. ft. The new facilities will be located on land owned by the Alumni Federation adjacent to the University’s Baton Rouge campus, overlooking the Mississippi River.

The local predecessor company to Eco-Services and Solvay USA Inc. previously donated a 5-acre tract of land to the SU Alumni Federation to develop an Alumni and Conference Center. In further support of this project, Eco-Services and Solvay, have now agreed to remove certain restrictive covenants that were part of the original donation. The removal of these covenants will allow the SU Alumni Federation to add student housing to the project.

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Southern University Quiz Bowl Team ranks in Sweet Sixteen (left-right standing): William Waddell, Jalen John, Joyner Deamer , Christopher Braggs and Karriem Upshaw. (Not pictured-Kelvin Wells). (left-right) Seated: Deadra Mackie, team adviser, and Diola Bagayoko, dean of the R.M. Spikes Honors College.

The Southern University Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) Quiz Bowl team again ranked in the Sweet Sixteen after participating in competitive tournaments in Torrance, California as part of the Honda Campus Allstars Challenge (HCASC) National Tournament. Because of their collective efforts, the team advanced to rank first place in its group to continue to the next level of the tournament. Though they did not win the competition, they were grateful and excited to bring home scholarship funds to Southern University.

“I am honored to be able to coach brilliant minds and students who want to better themselves academically,” said Deadra Mackie, HCASC campus coach.

Southern University’s team consists of Joyner Deamer (junior, engineering), Kelvin Wells (junior, political science), Christopher Braggs (sophomore, business) and William Waddell (freshman, biology). Student alternates include Jalen John (freshman, pre-nursing) and Karriem Upshaw (freshman, mathematics and physics). Wells was selected as an All-Star for highest overall scores in the group. The Southern University Quiz Bowl team practices throughout the academic year to prepare

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itself for any and all questions related to current events, music, theatre, chemistry, physics, politics, religion, pop culture, etc.

Students are chosen from a campus-wide competition that is typically held early in the fall semester. The scholars with the highest scores in each competition are then selected to join the HCASC club. The club participants continue to compete against each other and other HCASC teams.

Honda has supported and celebrated America’s HBCUs for more than 25 years. Since 1989, HCASC, one of the largest and longest running philanthropic initiatives in the United States, has impacted the lives of academic superstars from all across the country. Honda enables HBCU’s to earn grants and positive visibility for their respective institutions. Through programs like HCASC, Honda has been able to touch the lives of more than 170,000 students and have awarded several millions in grants in support of educational programs.

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Tickets also available at Southern University Ticket Office.

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