The Voorhees Voice (Spring/Summer 2011)

THE MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF VOORHEES COLLEGE SPRING/SUMMER 2011

Changing Minds. Changing Lives.

New SGA President and officers installed and ready for change

New Student Government Association President Emmanuel Nwokocha and other officers are installed and ready to get to action for the betterment of the student body.

6 SGA officers ready for change New SGA officers are installed and ready for change on campus

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11 Summer internships Voorhees students intern at various locations during the summer

20 Founder’s Week Events

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Voorhees celebrates its 114th founding with various events during the week

22 A.I.I. Championship

Founder‟s Week events are held to commemorate the 114th founding of Voorhees College.

Lady Tigers clinch the Association of Independent Institutions Championship

26 Voorhees accomplishments New appointments are made at Voorhees

30 Alumni achievements

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Alumni have recent achievements in various career fields

The Voorhees College Women‟s Basketball Team wins the Association of Independent Institutions Championship.

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The Voorhees Voice Spring/Summer 2011 www.voorhees.edu President Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr., Ed.D. „62 Editor Teesa J. Brunson Communications Director Editorial Committee Jayme Bradford Priscilla Ferrette Tifanie Lewis Sandra Rouse, Ph.D. Curtiss Sumner Contributors Marie S. Harrison, Advancement Services Director Dorothy Patterson, „73, Alumni Relations Director Rolondo Davis, SCSU Photography Cecil Williams Photography, LLC Justin Curry, „11 Kiera Hardy, „12 Tysha Hicks, „12 Tashianna Pointer, „12 Shaquetta Summers, „12 Communications Office Phone: 803-780-1194 Fax: 803-780-1590 E-mail: tbrunson@voorhees.edu

The Voorhees Voice is published for alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of Voorhees College. All items may be reproduced with credit to The Voorhees Voice. Comments or suggestions should be addressed to: Teesa J. Brunson Communications Director P.O. Box 678 Denmark, SC 29042 (803) 780-1194 tbrunson@voorhees.edu

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The Voorhees Voice

Voice of Voorhees: Message of Change Dear Tigers: Welcome to our Spring/Summer 2011 edition of The Voorhees Voice. We are excited about this past academic year. We have experienced much growth and new developments on campus. As we continue on the pathway toward success, our top priority is to articulate our new learning outcomes for our students, which will help us measure the skills and abilities our students should demonstrate once they receive a degree from Voorhees College. We must also improve and enhance our programs and policies based on assessment data. Additionally, the institution will continually implement new systems and procedures to increase our accountability and transparency.

Keeping with our theme of “Changing Minds, Changing Lives,” our academic programs continue to positively impact the lives of many students. During the past academic year, we created a new writing center on campus, which will help ensure that our students are more proficient in writing. We have increased the percentage of faculty members with terminal degrees. Our Fall 2010 enrollment was the largest enrollment the institution has had in many years with approximately 750 students.

Lastly, Voorhees is on its way to completing our SACS recertification.

Our SACS Leadership Team has submitted our compliance certification (self-study) and is preparing to submit our Quality Enhancement Plan.

Some of the achievements that took place during the academic year with our students and distinguished alumni are below.   

Our Lady Tigers won the Association of Independent Institutions Basketball Regional Championship.

Dr. Pamela M. Wilson, a 1994 alumna, made history by becoming the first woman to serve as president of Allen University. Dr. Wilson was also our Founder‟s Convocation speaker.

Dr. Lenny F. Springs II, a 1968 alumnus appointed by President Barack Obama‟s administration to serve in the U.S. Department of Education, was our 2011 Commencement Convocation speaker.

With the growth we are having at Voorhees, it is imperative for you to continue your contributions to the institution. We are in need of additional support from our alumni and friends. Due to the poor global economy and harsh economic times we are living, the cost of a college education is increasing. Our students are in need of your help. We are asking that you contribute even more.

Thank you again for your support of Voorhees College. We are taking huge strides toward becoming a premier liberal arts institution. I hope that you enjoy this issue of The Voorhees Voice!

With Tiger Pride,

Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr., Ed.D. „62

The Class of 2011 receives words of wisdom from education official

Dr. Lenny F. Springs II addresses the graduating class during the 114th Commencement Convocation.

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he 108 graduates from the Class of 2011 received words of inspiration from a current President Obama Administration appointee during Commencement Convocation.

Dr. Lenny F. Springs II, who is a Federal Student Aid Senior Advisor in the U.S. Department of Education, delivered the 2011 commencement address.

Springs joined President Barack Obamaâ€&#x;s administration in November 2009. He works with the Education Department and Financial Student Aid (FSA) leadership to provide support to traditionally under-resourced colleges and universities, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), members of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) and other organizations devoted to helping schools transition successfully to the Direct Loan Program.

He earned a bachelorâ€&#x;s degree in business administration from Voorhees College and was later awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Voorhees.

Above (left to right): Dr. Lenny F. Springs II, Britney Smith, Miss Voorhees College 2011-2012, Emmanuel Nwokocha, SGA President 2011-2012, and President Sellers Below: Board members, administrators, faculty and staff participate in processional for Commencement Convocation.

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Dr. Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr. presents Dr. Prezell R. Robinson with honorary degree in humane letters

Above: Roosevelt Bryant, chief marshal Below: President Sellers with recent graduate Erozi Regina Da Silva

Above: Reverend Canon Nelson Pinder accepts honorary degree in humane letters from Dr. Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr.

Below: Dr. Donald L. Fowler, former board chairman, receives citation for his dedication and service as chairman of the Board of Trustees

Below: President Sellers with Tyquan Parker

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Top graduates of senior class recognized

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etermination, persistence and resilience are the values that the first academic honor graduate of Voorhees College lived and practiced in her efforts to successfully receive a bachelor‟s degree.

Yalanda Robinson, a native of York, S.C., not only achieved her goal of graduating from college, but she holds the title of first academic honor for the Class of 2011.

“I am so proud to say that I am a Voorhees graduate,” Robinson said.

“Voorhees has facilitated so much growth and maturity in my life, and I will forever be grateful for my alma mater.”

Robinson, who majored in social work, plans to enroll at Winthrop University in the fall to pursue a master‟s degree in social work.

“I would like to be in the position to help young children cope with social and psychological problems that may arise at school, at home or at work,” Robinson said.

While at Voorhees, Robinson was a member of various organizations including the Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Culture Club, Honors College, Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society and the Student Support Services Program.

Additionally, she was named Who‟s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.

Kemar Hunter, who is an international student and native of Portland, Jamaica, has been named the

second academic honor graduate for the senior class.

Additionally, Hunter was the 20102011 Student Government Association President. During the 20102011 academic year, Hunter won an oratorical competition at the 2010 South Carolina District Conference for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Hunter‟s topic was, “A Call to Action: Alpha‟s Role in Reshaping the National Political Landscape.”

“Serving as the SGA president has given me humility and a higher level of respect for Voorhees,” Hunter said.

“Voorhees has equipped me with all the necessary tools I need to be successful, and it has made me a more diverse thinker. I have also been exposed to many new environments and leadership roles.”

Hunter plans to pursue a doctorate degree in cancer biology after graduating from Voorhees. Some of the institutions he has applied to for graduate school include Emory University, Vanderbilt University and Purdue University.

Some of the organizations Hunter became a member of while at Voorhees include the White Rose Social Club, Honors College, Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Additionally, Hunter was the co-founder of the Voorhees College Ernest Everett Just Science Club.

Yalanda Robinson First Academic Honor

Kemar Hunter Second Academic Honor

Mark Your Calendar Opening Convocation: Miss Voorhees College Coronation: Technology Week Activities: Homecoming Week: Choir Christmas Concert:

September 8 September 23 October 25-27 November 6-12 December 4

For additional information on these activities, contact Willie Jefferson, special events coordinator, at (803) 780-1049 or williej@voorhees.edu.

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New SGA President and officers installed and ready for change Left to right (front row): Emmanuel Nwokocha, president, Thomas Sumter, vice president, Jasmine Bethune, secretary, Hollie Garnett, business manager Left to right (back row): Britney Smith, Miss Voorhees College, and Dayvon Goddard, first-ever Mr. Voorhees College

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he 2011-2012 Student Gov- more light on the importance of susernment Association Presi- tainability on the college campus. dent is Emmanuel Okafor “As an eco-Ambassador for the EPA Nwokocha. A 21-year-old On-Campus Program, one of my top native of Nigeria, he priorities will be to enrolled into Vooradvise Voorhees hees College in the “This is our time to make a on options to purspring of 2009 as a change, and we must embrace chase green power, dean‟s scholar, and and take advantage of this such as solar or he is currently a wonderful opportunity we wind energy, to senior majoring in reduce the envihave.” biology with a mironmental impacts nor in environmenassociated with -Emmanuel Nwokocha tal science. conventional elecWith his passion for a sustainable and tricity,” Nwokocha said. eco-friendly environment, he was seNwokocha was also recently named lected by the U.S. Environmental Pro- an award recipient for the Fourth Antection Agency (EPA) to serve as the nual Undergraduate Fellowship for the only eco-Ambassador from the state of National Resource Center for the FirstSouth Carolina in the EPA On- Year Experience and Students in TranCampus Program. His goal is to shed sition.

President Sellers and Emmanuel Nwokocha, who is an ecoAmbassador for the EPA On-Campus program

Above: Officers are installed during chapel service.

Below: 2011-2012 SGA President Emmanuel Nwokocha

He was one of only five students selected from a diverse pool of fellowship applicants by a special committee composed of staff from the National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience and Students in Transition. He was the only student from a HBCU selected as a recipient.

His commitment to community service and humanitarian activities inspired him to charter the Rotaract Club of Voorhees College, which is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Georgetown. The organization‟s impact has been felt by the community of Denmark and has been recognized by the mayor of Denmark.

Nwokocha is a member of various other organizations including the Rotaract Club of Voorhees College, SGA Senate, Honors College, Ernest Everett Just Science Club, White Rose Social Club, Alpha Kappa Mu Honors Society and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. “As the SGA president, my major goal is to increase the communication between the students and the SGA so the organization can effectively represent its constituents to the fullest, while allowing the students to get involved in the whole process of progress on campus,” said Nwokocha.

After a receiving a bachelor‟s degree in biology from Voorhees, he wants to attend a graduate school for an environmental management degree.

“These two degrees will equip me with the necessary tools to succeed in my career path,” he said.

“They will also give me the knowledge needed in my efforts to reduce the effects of environmental pollution.”

The additional 2011-2012 Student Government Association officers installed included Thomas Sumter as vice president. Sumter is a native of Bishopville, S.C. and a junior majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry.

Throughout his tenure here at Voorhees, he has achieved much. During the summer of 2010, he became the first Voorhees student to be accepted into the Summer Medical Dental Education Program (SMDEP), the top program of its kind, held at the University of Virginia Medical School.

“After participating in SMDEP, I was inspired to establish an organization on our campus for students who aspire to enter into the medical field,” Sumter said. The name of Sumter‟s organization is Emerging Healthcare Leaders.

Jasmine Bethune, a native of Pinewood, S.C., has been elected to serve as secretary. Bethune is a junior majoring in business administration.

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Bethune‟s educational goals are to complete her undergraduate degree in business administration and attend Florida International University to obtain a Master of Science degree in business administration.

Her ultimate goal is to become an executive director of Wells Fargo & Company.

Bethune is confident that she will be able to excel after she graduates from Voorhees. “I know that Voorhees will give me the tools that are necessary to become successful in my future endeavors,” Bethune said.

The business manager for the 2011-2012 academic year is Hollie Garnett, a native of Augusta, Ga. majoring in biology and minoring in chemistry.

Some of Garnett‟s extracurricular activities include the Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Culture Club, Miss NAACP (2010-2011), Ernest Everett Just Science Club, Voorhees College Cheerleading Squad, Rotaract Club and Student Support Services Program.

Garnett has set high hopes for her future as a leader on campus. “I believe that to be an effective leader, one must possess not only strong character but a vision for the future,” Garnett said. “When this vision is combined with a proactive leader, one can be sure that things will get done.”

The new officers are excited about the upcoming academic year and ready to bring about change within the student body.

“We would like for students on campus to become more involved in campus activities and more knowledgeable on the policies and procedures for implementing new ideas,” SGA President Nwokocha said.

“This is our time to make a change, and we must embrace and take advantage of this wonderful opportunity we have.”

Newly elected Student Government Association officers continue to light a flame symbolizing the unity they will develop as leaders 8

The Voorhees Voice

Above: Student Government Association officers are ready for business Below: SGA President Emmanuel Nwokocha being installed as president during chapel service

Mr. and Miss Voorhees College 2011-2012 make history in different ways

Above: Dayvon Goddard becomes the first-ever Mr. Voorhees College and Britney Smith becomes the first-ever Miss Voorhees College from historic Talbotton, Ga.

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ritney Smith is the first-ever queen to hail Smith‟s platform is to increase the knowledge of from the historic town of Talbotton, Ga., AIDS in the black community. She plans to inwhich is the crease more awareness hometown of about this phenomenon on Voorhees‟ founder Elizabeth “AIDS is increasingly becoming an ep- the campus.

Evelyn Wright Menafee.

“AIDS is increasingly idemic of the black race, and I feel as Smith, who is majoring in becoming an epidemic of though it is time to renew our sense biology and minoring in the black race, and I feel of urgency about HIV/AIDS prevenchemistry, said she is proud as though it is time to reto be given the chance to new our sense of urgency tion and transmission.” represent her institution. about HIV/AIDS preven“I am ecstatic and blessed -Britney Smith tion and transmission. We to uphold the title as Miss must all take steps to proVoorhees College,” said tect ourselves and work to Smith, who is 20 years old. “I am humbled to be end the many forms of oppression that are contribgiven this opportunity to represent the school that uting to the spread of HIV/AIDS,” Smith said. has given me the knowledge and tools I need in or-Continued on next page der to succeed in life.”

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Among being a Presidential Scholar, Smith has various academic honors including being a member of the Honors College and named Who‟s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities.

Smith has been involved in activities and organizations since enrolling at Voorhees College. Some of her memberships include the Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Culture Club, Ernest Everett Just Science Club, Rotaract Club and Honors College. She also is a member of the Voorhees College Cheerleading Squad.

Additionally, she took on numerous leadership roles when she first entered Voorhees College such as: secretary of the 2008-2009 freshman class, vice president of the 2009-2010 sophomore class, 2009 president of the Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Culture Club and 2009-2010 Miss Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. After graduation, Smith plans to attend the Medical University of South Carolina to pursue a medical degree.

The first-ever Mr. Voorhees College is Dayvon Goddard, 20-year-old native of Brooklyn, N.Y. Goddard is majoring in accounting and minoring in business administration.

Goddard, who is a first-generation college student, is excited about representing the institution and plans to do his very best in this role.

“It is an honor to represent the institution that has molded me into the individual I am,” Goddard said. “I plan to set the bar high for the next person to serve in this role.”

Goddard‟s platform will be based on mentoring the freshmen of Voorhees College by giving various tips on the college experience and how to successfully matriculate through college.

“The majority of freshmen usually come into Voorhees College with the wrong impression of the college as a whole. These impressions can possibly lead these freshman students to go down the wrong path.”

Maintaining a 4.0 grade point average in all of his major courses, Goddard is also involved in various organizations on campus including the Eta Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., where he serves as vice president, White Rose Social Club, Students in Free Enterprise and Student Support Services Program.

Additionally, Goddard was given a chance of a lifetime during the 2010-2011 academic year by visiting Brazil for an eight-week foreign exchange program with the Federal Centers for Technical Education College (CEFET/RJ).

“Voorhees has allowed me to accomplish much throughout my matriculation. I encourage other students to take advantage of the various opportunities provided by Voorhees in an effort to gain more experiences and become more marketable.”

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The Voorhees Voice

Above: Britney Smith, Miss Voorhees College 2011-2012 Below: Dayvon Goddard, Mr. Voorhees College 20112012

Tigers spend the summer gaining invaluable hands-on experience in various areas Dayvon Goddard, accounting, Brooklyn, N.Y., Class of 2012 Dayvon will be interning this summer with T-Coombs Associates, a company that specializes in accounting and information technology. Goddard said the internship, which will be in Springfield, Va., will enable him to combine the knowledge that he has learned at Voorhees in the area with real business practices in the field of accounting. The internship will last 10 weeks.

“It is a great honor to have the opportunity to represent my great institution,” said Goddard. “I look forward to gaining real world experience in my field.”

Devon David Eilts, mathematics, Lithonia, Ga., Class of 2014 Devon will be spending his summer at an internship in Fort Collins, Colo. He will be interning with Mountain View Systems, a company that specializes in Microsoft Accelerated Certification training.

Eilts‟ duties will include assisting the company with hosting Microsoft Certification exams and participating in the Microsoft boot camp. The internship will be 10 weeks.

“I am very blessed to have this opportunity,” Eilts said. “This is not an opportunity that comes to often, so I plan to do my best and not take this opportunity for granted.”

Brittany Lawrence-Lemon, business administration, Charleston, S.C., Class of 2013 Brittany Lawrence-Lemon will be returning for a second year to intern with the U.S. Department of Energy in Washington, D.C. Lawrence-Lemon will be working in the records management office. She will gain more experience working with the budget for the Information Technology and Cyber Security departments and making presentations on the best ways to conserve energy.

“I feel that I represented Voorhees well last summer, and I am happy that I was invited back for another summer,” Lawrence-Lemon said.

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Some of the locations students will be interning include Colorado, Washington, D.C. and West Virginia Nathan Mack, computer science, Sumter, S.C., Class of 2013 Nathan Mack will also be interning at Mountain View Systems in Fort Collins, Colo. Mountain View Systems specializes in training clients to pass various computer certifications. Mack‟s internship will last 10 weeks as well.

Mack‟s responsibilities will include helping the company set up computers and other materials for certification classes.

“I am excited about the many opportunities and skill sets that I will learn during my internship,” Mack said.

Wayne Davidson, accounting, Yonkers, N.Y., Class of 2012 Wayne Davidson will be joining his fraternity brother Dayvon Goddard on an internship at T-Coombs Associates in Springfield, Va. Davidson‟s internship will also be 10 weeks.

Davidson said he looks forward to the experience he will gain in accounting.

“This internship will enable me to obtain hands-on experience in the modern day job market,” Davidson said.

Emmanuel Nwokocha, biology, Nigeria, Class of 2012 Emmanuel Nwokocha will be interning this summer with Dominion, one of the nation's largest producers and transporters of energy. Although the main office is located in Richmond, Va., Nwokocha‟s internship location will be in Mount Storm, W. Va. at Dominion‟s Mount Storm Power Station, the largest coal-fired power station managed by Dominion.

Not only will Nwokocha be paid throughout the summer for his internship, he will also receive a $5,000 scholarship.

“I feel privileged to be able to work for a Fortune 500 company and to be mentored by professionals in the environmental science field,” Nwokocha said, who is also minoring in environmental science.

“I know that I will learn a lot while expanding my experience. I will try as much as possible to maximize this opportunity to the fullest.”

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The Voorhees Voice

Honors Day Convocation recognizes Voorhees scholars

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114th Honors Day Convocation guest speaker Adrienne Lance Lucas

Lucas, President Sellers, Dr. Carl A. Carpenter, former executive vice president/academic dean

Above: Lucas presents a check to students (left to right) Darrell Spratley, Ben Bakayoko and Darrius Snow.

Below: Administrators present Tywana Branch with the Faculty of the Year Award.

oorhees College hosted its annual Honors Day Convocation with the president and cofounder of Kid Entrepreneurs Need Opportunities (K.E.N.O.) Micro-Fund, which is an organization that fosters, grows and nurtures businesses formed by kid entrepreneurs.

Adrienne Lance Lucas is no stranger to launching successful businesses. As principal and chief operating officer of ICG Real Estate Advisors, LLC, she helped the company grow from $0 to nearly $75 million in only 18 months with the company‟s first fund, Inheritance Capital Group, LLC. ICG Real Estate Advisors currently holds over $200 million in managed assets.

After earning a B.A. in economics from Spelman College and an MBA from Harvard University, Lucas returned to her home state of Minnesota to work as a financial analyst for General Mills, Inc. She advanced quickly and gained valuable experience in marketing, sales and corporate finance and earned a reputation for being a solid manager and an exceptional developer of people.

As a testament to her outstanding performance, in 1993, Lucas was the youngest person in the company‟s history to date to receive the coveted Chairman‟s Award for customer service for her work in reengineering the administrative functions within the National Sales Division.

Lucas shared encouraging words with the honor students. She advised them to have a vision of success for themselves and to know the steps needed to make their dreams a reality.

“Be willing to reinvent yourself,” Lucas said. “As young people, your journey will be long. Hold on to whatever that vision is for you.”

During the event, Lucas honored Voorhees students Darrius Snow, Ben Bakayoko and Darrell Spratley for submitting the best business plan.

“We are very appreciative of Mrs. Lucas‟ donation and her support,” said Darrius Snow, a junior business major. “We hope that one day we will be presidents of successful businesses just as Lucas is.”

During the program, Voorhees also recognized Tywana Branch, who received the Faculty of the Year Award.

Assistant Professor of Psychology Tywana Branch received the 2011 South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) Excellence in Teaching Award at the Convention Center in Columbia.

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Coronation 2010 “A Testament to Royalty” An intelligent young lady with elegance and class held the title of Miss Voorhees College 2010-2011.

Nina Sutton, a native of Bronx, N.Y., officially began her reign as queen during Coronation with the theme, “A Testament to Royalty.”

As queen, Sutton participated in various community service events including hosting a food drive at Voorhees, where the proceeds were donated to Golden Harvest Food Bank.

A representative from Golden Harvest Food Bank expressed sincere thanks to Sutton for helping to fight hunger in the area.

“Golden Harvest Food Bank works with close to 408 feeding programs in 30 counties in Georgia and South Carolina with the Master‟s Table Soup Kitchen serving an average of 350 lunches seven days a week and 365 days a year,” said Carrie Jones, events specialist.

“We couldn‟t accomplish nearly that much without the support of people like you and everyone else with Voorhees College. The 68 pounds collected will provide more than 53 meals for people in our service area.”

As a part of Sutton‟s platform Becoming Erudite Leaders in Every Voyage and Endeavor (B.E.L.I.E.V.E.), she hosted a Women‟s History Month Empowerment Program. During this event, Sutton invited women who are leaders in the Denmark and surrounding areas to share the experiences with the women of Voorhees College.

“This event was my most memorable contribution as campus queen because I enjoyed hearing the stories that women shared with us on the strides they took to obtain equality and become successful,” Sutton said.

During her matriculation at Voorhees, Sutton was involved in various activities and organizations including Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., the Student Government Association, the Ernest Everett Just Science Club and the Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Drama Guild.

Sutton, who majored in biology and minored in chemistry, graduated May 14. Her future goals include attending University of New York (SUNY) College of Optometry. Her ultimate goal is to become an optometrist.

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Voorhees celebrates Homecoming 2010 Voorhees celebrated Homecoming 2010 with the theme “Revisit, Reconnect and Recommit.”

One of the premier events during Homecoming included former and current students of the institution re-enacting the 1960 Denmark SitIns, which took place in an effort to integrate local drug stores.

The students were denied service from Talbert‟s Drug Store and Carolina Cut Rate Drug Store. After continuously entering the drug stores, the students were arrested on charges of disturbing the peace.

They were later released the same day.

The former and current students who participated in the sit-in were President Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr., Sidney Gleaton, Herman Young, Arthur Copeland, Herman Glouster, Darrius Snow and Ben Bakayoko.

Following the demonstration, the National Alumni Hall of Fame recipients were recognized at the annual banquet held. The recipients were Kathleen Lebby Faust, Joseph T. Price, Milton Mel Gaines, Rosia Speach Gardner and Alfonso Lamback Sr. Additional Homecoming activities included the annual parade and games, the President and First Lady‟s Jazz Reception and the step show, which was won by the Eta Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the Eta Omicron Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. “Our last Homecoming was such a great success,” President Sellers said. “I would like to thank all of our wonderful alumni and supporters who participated in last year‟s events, and we hope that they will return to Voorhees for Homecoming 2011.”

Voorhees College celebrates National Library Week

President Sellers speaks to elementary students about the importance of reading.

Author Shiela Martina interacts with elementary students.

Wes Moore with students at the annual book fair

President Sellers autographed copies of his book, “The River of No Return.”

Sister Souljah autographs books for assembly participants.

Students pose with author Sister Souljah following the assembly.

and concerts in Harlem, N.Y., which drew nearly 30,000 youth each time, as well as the participation of top hip-hop and R&B celebrities.

During the week, Voorhees held its annual book fair featuring authors Wes Moore and Shiela Martina.

Wes Moore was a featured speaker at the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver and was named Crain‟s New York Business‟ “40 Under 40 Rising Stars” in 2009. He has been featured by The Oprah Winfrey Show, People magazine, USA Today, Essence, The View, Meet the Press, Charlie Rose, Tavis Smiley, and NPR, amongst others.

Moore is committed to helping young people redirect their lives and supporting the parents, teachers, mentors and volunteers who care for and work with our

nation‟s youth. A portion of his proceeds from the sales of his book, “The Other Wes Moore,” are being donated to the U.S. Dream Academy and City Year.

Shiela Martina recently wrote and published a children‟s book titled “Hannah and Dexter: The First Meeting.”

She received a bachelor‟s degree from Claflin University and a master‟s degree from South Carolina State University. Martina also received a Master of Library and Information Science degree from the University of South Carolina.

Additionally, there were several other local authors who participated in the annual book fair.

National Library Week activities were organized by Dr. Marie Martin, professor and librarian for the Wright/Potts library.

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n April, Voorhees College celebrated National Library Week with authors Sister Souljah, Wes Moore and Shiela Martina.

Sister Souljah was the featured presenter during an assembly during the week. Souljah is the author of three national bestsellers: “The Coldest Winter Ever,” “No Disrespect,” “Midnight, A Gangster Love Story,” and “Midnight and the Meaning of Love,” which was released on April 12. In 2008, within one week of the release of “Midnight, A Gangster Love Story,” she became a New York Times bestseller, entering the charts at number seven.

As a community activist, Souljah organized against racially-motivated crimes, police brutality and the miseducation of urban youth. She produced and promoted several outdoor rallies 18

The Voorhees Voice

New organization on campus works in the community

Voorhees now has PDF delivery option for official transcripts Voorhees College now offers a secure electronic PDF delivery of official academic transcripts.

These transcripts will be ready for secure electronic delivery for recipients within 24 business hours after receipt of the request.

For academic records prior to 1990, additional processing time is required; therefore, electronic delivery will be within 32 business hours.

Normal processing time for postal mail and hold for pickup options is within five to seven business days.

Voorhees College prohibits issuing transcripts to any student indebted to the college.

For additional information, contact the Office of the Registrar at 803-780-1250.

Voorhees receives $40,000 toward going “Green”

The South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees recently elected Dr. Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr., president of Voorhees College, to serve on the executive committee as a member at large.

In this role, Sellers will be responsible for developing new initiatives to secure additional funding for students at independent colleges.

“In these extremely difficult economic times, it is imperative that administrators find additional resources to assist students,” Sellers said. “When our students graduate from college, we do not want them to leave with a lot of debt.”

In an effort to continually make the campus aware of the importance of eco-awareness and ways to increase environmental consciousness, Voorhees College received two grants totaling $40,000 to assist with this initiative.

Most recently, Voorhees received a Building Green Planning Grant Award for $20,000 from the United Negro College Fund. The funds from this grant will enable Voorhees to develop additional green policy initiatives on campus and provide measures to reduce energy consumption.

Voorhees was among several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to receive this grant including Howard University, Spelman College and Morehouse College. Voorhees was the only HBCU in South Carolina to receive funding from the grant.

Voorhees also received a $20,000 technical assistance grant from the South Carolina Energy Office to conduct an energy assessment on 17 of its facilities and buildings on campus. This grant was funded through the stimulus bill.

“We understand the importance of taking steps to save our environment,” said President Sellers.

“With the funding from these grants, Voorhees will be able to implement new initiatives and continually make our students aware of the benefits to going green.”

Voorhees and Rep. Bakari Sellers host shoe drive for Bamberg community Voorhees College, along with Representative Bakari T. Sellers, hosted a “Voorhees Got Sole” shoe drive for the Bamberg county area during the 2010-2011 academic year.

An assortment of shoe sizes for men, women and children were available at no charge to the community.

“During these harsh economic times, it is important for all of us to help out those who are less fortunate than we are,” said Rep. Sellers.

“Through this great community effort, we were able to collect more than 250 pairs of shoes to donate to families in the Bamberg county area. I appreciate everyone who came out to support such a worthy cause.”

The remaining shoes left were donated to the Salvation Army.

The Voorhees Voice

CAMPUS NOTES

The Golden Touch Organization, which was organized by staff member Allicia Golden during the 2010-2011 academic year, has been aggressively working in communities to improve the lives of elders and young women.

The organization‟s highlight project was a trip to the Carriage House in Sumter, S.C., a home for those who have Alzheimer's disease (AD).

The goal of the organization is to better communities and build character, self-esteem and stronger womanhood in the lives of young ladies.

“Our organization believes that every young lady is equal no matter the color, income status or environmental status,” said Allicia Golden, founder and adviser.

Sellers to serve on SCICU executive committee

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Voorhees celebrates Founder’s Week with various events

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From left to right: First Lady Gwendolyn Sellers, President Sellers, ABL Educational Enterprise representatives Mary Higginbotham and Felicia Murray

Above: President Sellers along with Jocelyn Blitz and Jane Voorhees, the daughter and granddaughter of Trustee Emeritus Ralph Voorhees Below: Carolyn Murray of WCBD-TV in Charleston was the mistress of ceremonies for the gala.

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or the second consecutive year, Voorhees College hosted its annual President‟s Scholarship Gala in an effort to raise money toward scholarships for deserving students to attend the institution.

On April 9, the Voorhees College family, along with donors, sponsors, and alumni, gathered once again at the Charleston Place Hotel in Charleston for the second annual President‟s Scholarship Gala.

“Voorhees would like to thank all of our supporters for making our second annual gala special,” said President Sellers. “Your kindness and generosity will make it possible for students to receive a quality education at Voorhees.”

The 2011 Keeper of the Flame Awardee was Trustee Emeritus Ralph W. Voorhees for continuing his family‟s legacy of supporting Voorhees College. Trustee Voorhees became a member of the Voorhees College Board of Trustees in 2007.

Prior to the gala on Saturday, Voorhees had various activities to commemorate the 114th founding of the institution throughout the week.

Some of those events included Founder‟s Day Convocation with guest speaker 1994 alumna Dr. Pamela M. Wilson, who recently became the 24th president of Allen University and the first woman to serve as president in the 141year history of the institution.

During her address, Wilson discussed the importance of determination, commitment and perseverance. She said that if you have these three characteristics, you will be successful after leaving Voorhees.

“You can get there from here,” Wilson said.

“Use obstacles as learning tools and stepping stones to reach what you envision.”

Additional activities included a play production titled “Who Moves the Shade-The Life of Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Menafee,” a panel discussion on Voorhees‟ founder and a research exhibit grand opening featuring various materials and documents surrounding the founder of the institution collected by Voorhees‟ archivist Richard Reid.

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Photos: 1.

President Sellers, Dr. Wilson and Dr. Carpenter, former executive vice president/academic dean, Diane Oberry, vice president for fiscal and administrative affairs, during Convocation

2. Members of the White Rose Social Club, Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Culture Club and the Elizabeth Evelyn Wright Players 3.

Richard Reid, archivist, and student from Grambling State University during the research display grand opening

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The Voorhees family participates in the solemn procession to Memorial Garden

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Participants during the research display grand opening

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Ulysses Williams, communications/drama coach at Voorhees, along with Dr. King Godwin and drama students of Grambling State University

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President Sellers, along with the Voorhees College Lady Tigers and cheerleaders, celebrate after winning the Association of Independent Institutions Championship Tournament.

T Above: The Lady Tigers in action jumping for the ball Below: Lady Tigers’ huddle up

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he Voorhees College Lady Tigers won the Association of Independent Institutions Championship Tournament defeating the Talladega College Lady Tornadoes 65-52.

“I knew that we could do it,” said Edward Glover, head women‟s basketball coach. “I knew that if we stayed focus, we would take the championship home.”

Voorhees held Talladega to 19 percent shooting from the field during the first half causing Talladega not to break into double digits until the 4:30 mark before half. The first half ended with Voorhees leading 34-17.

Voorhees‟ top scorers for the game were Rashonda Mayfield with 16 points, Mary Cason with 13 points and Davieena Kemp with 10 points. Additionally, Rayshonda Mayfield was named the tournament‟s Most Outstanding Player.

The Lady Tigers ended the season with an overall record of 25-7. They were undefeated at home with a record of 12-0.

Additional achievements of the Lady Tigers include being ranked one of the top five defensive teams in the country.

Above: Lady Tigers and Coach Glover receive awards after the tournament.

Below: Kierra Patterson (left) and Mary Cason (right) receive first-team honors.

Rashonda Mayfield named MVP of the A.I.I. tournament

NAIA rankings include number two in scoring margin, number three in total rebound margin, number five in scoring defense, number eight in total steals and number 10 in total rebound defense.

Lady Tigers Rashonda Mayfield, Kierra Patterson and Mary Cason were named to the 2010-2011 Association of Independent Institutions All-Conference Second Team.

Head Coach Edward Glover said that he expects his team to continue next year with having an outstanding season.

“What we did this season is what we expect to do every season, which is to win a championship,” Glover said. “So, we will enjoy this, but we know it‟s time to get to work on next season so that we can continually build this program.”

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Voorhees recognizes athletes for hard work during athletic banquet

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2010-2011 cheerleading squad 2010-2011 softball team with coach Tifanie Lewis 2010-20111 male track team with coach Allicia Golden Coach Adrian West with 2010-2011 volleyball team Coach Adrian West with 2010-2011 baseball team award recipients Coach Edward Glover with 2010-2011 women’s basketball team members Coach Michael Cheaney with 2010-2011 men’s basketball team awardees

Men’s basketball team looks to improve next season

Above: Head Coach Michael Cheaney giving plays during a time out Below: Tigers at work on the court

The Voorhees College Men‟s Basketball Team is looking forward to the upcoming season to improve this past season‟s record of 16-16 ending the season at .500.

Led by first-year head coach, Michael Cheaney, the Tigers were expecting to win both the conference and the coveted NAIA National Championship. Losing crucial games to Talladega College and the NAIA powerhouse Mountain State University deterred that expectation.

“The season could have been 10 times better if we were hungrier and more focused,” said Ryan Pickens, senior forward.

Losing co-captains Antwan Carter and Antwon Allston, the Tigers are looking to the returners and a big recruiting class to fill the void.

Tigers who will be returning include Sam Dotson, Garland McArthur, Brandon Coleman, Jeffrey Evans, Andre Datcher, Willie Waters, Terrick Phillips, Tadavious Williams, Cyrus Green and Charles Jones.

Coach Cheaney said that the team is very optimistic about next season. “We have majority of the team returning and some key additions will be made with new recruits coming in,” Cheaney said.

Awards for the Tigers during last season include Garland McArthur being named to the 2010-2011 Association of Independent Institutions AllConference First-Team and Antwon Carter being named to the 2010-2011 Association of Independent Institution All-Conference Second Team.

Coach Glover recognized for accomplishments After the completion of a successful season, Voorhees College Head Women‟s Basketball Coach Edward Glover was named the 2011 Association of Independent Institutions Coach of the Year.

“Receiving this individual award is a reflection of the team and program,” Glover said. “It just measures what the team has done overall.”

Coach Glover completed his tenth season at Voorhees as the head coach. He said that he has enjoyed every minute of it.

“It has been a blessing to do this

job, and I still have the desire after all these years to put in the time to be competitive.”

Glover also received the 2011 Association of Independent Institutions Most Outstanding Tournament Coach after the Lady Tigers defeated Talladega College to win the Association of Independent Institutions Championship Tournament. The Lady Tigers completed its season with an overall record of 27-7.

Glover is a graduate of Claflin University with a B.A. in sociology and South Carolina State University with an M.A. in rehabilitation counseling.

Coach Edward Glover

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Changing Minds. Changing Lives.

Voorhees family accomplishments Voorhees welcomes first woman to serve as board chairperson

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he Voorhees College Board of Trustees unanimously appointed Mary Ellen Moule, Esq., as chairman of the board. Moule becomes the first woman to serve as board chairperson.

Moule is an attorney and practices in federal court in New York City. She earned her law degree at the Yale Law School in 2001, a master‟s degree in professional studies in African – American studies at Cornell University in 1995 and a bachelor‟s degree from Williams College in 1991.

Prior to entering the legal profession, she taught history in high school in Washington, D.C. Additionally, she taught courses in the College of Education at Oregon State University.

“I learned to love and respect Voorhees‟ mission at the knee of my grandfather, Matthew Golson, Class of 1940,” said Moule.

“Since I began my service on the Board of Trustees four years ago, I have had the privilege to work with outgoing Chairman Dr. Donald L. Fowler and previous Chairman Dr. Marshall Bass. I am honored to follow in their footsteps and to build on their commitment to Voorhees College. I look forward to working with Dr. Sellers and his dedicated staff as we face the challenges and develop strategies for educating the next generation of Voorhees students.”

Mary Ellen Moule, Esq. Board Chairperson

Sellers to serve as chairman of AEC Voorhees College President Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr. was elected to serve as chairman of the Association of Episcopal Colleges (AEC), the U.S. Chapter of the Colleges and Universities of the Anglican Communion (CUAC).

CUAC is a worldwide association of more than 120 institutions of higher education that were founded by and retain ties to the churches of the Anglican Communion. The Episcopal 26

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Colleges in the United States are Bard College, Clarkson College, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Kenyon College, St. Augustine College, Saint Augustine‟s College, Saint Paul‟s College, the University of the South and Voorhees College.

As chairman of the Board of Directors, which is made up of all the presidents of the Episcopal Colleges, Sellers will be leading the colleges in developing new strategic initiatives for enabling

all these institutions to fulfill their public missions during these difficult financial times.

“It is important for AEC to be committed to the vision of the churches,” Sellers said. “We will continually strive to alleviate poverty and injustice and work toward racial reconciliation and restorative justice.”

Dr. Davis has SCSU’s building named in his honor

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outh Carolina State University (SCSU) recently dedicated the Leroy Davis Senior Research and Science Complex to Dr. Leroy Davis, Sr., former president of SCSU and current executive director for the Center of Excellence in Rural and Minority Health at Voorhees College.

The new building is an annex to Hodge Hall. The complex houses the Department of Biology and Physical Sciences.

From first serving as a full professor of biology to becoming the eighth president of the institution serving from 1996 to 2002, Dr. Davis has contributed greatly to the growth and development of SCSU. While at SCSU, he saw giving increase from $419,000 in 1996 to $2.1 million in 2001.

The School of Business was accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the university was reaccredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Additionally, he initiated a Bachelor of Science degree program in nuclear engineering.

At Voorhees College, Dr. Davis has served as the executive director for the Center of Excellence in Rural Health.

With his leadership, Voorhees continues to investigate and combat health disparities in Bamberg County by being the only historically black college in South Carolina with a Center of Excellence in Rural Health.

Most recently, Dr. Davis spearheaded a completion program for the first cohort of health navigators to work in Bamberg County in an effort to prevent colorectal cancer by increasing access to colonoscopy screening.

“Dr. Davis has accomplished much in his career and dedicated his talents to his alma mater South Carolina State University,” said President Sellers. “It is only fitting that this institution bestows this honor to him with the dedication of the Leroy Davis Senior Research and Science Complex.”

Dr. Davis cuts the ribbon to officially open the new building named in his honor

Dr. Davis addresses the crowd

Above: Dr. Davis and family at the ceremony Below: Dr. Sellers congratulates Dr. Davis on behalf of the Voorhees family

*South Carolina State University’s Web site (www.scsu.edu) was used as a reference for some information in the above article.

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Branch is faculty of the year

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ywana Branch, assistant professor of psychology, received the 2011 South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities (SCICU) Excellence in Teaching Award.

Branch is currently in the dissertation writing phase of the Psychology Doctoral Program at Capella University. She received a Master of Education degree with distinctions in counseling psychology from Troy University, and she graduated from Voorhees College with a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice.

She has taught in elementary, middle and high school sectors honing a variety of teaching skills,

which makes for a well-rounded teaching philosophy that she has brought to higher education for three years.

Branch believes that intelligence is malleable and that each student learns differently.

“As a facilitator of knowledge, I make content accessible to all students and give all students an equal opportunity to excel,” Branch said.

Branch added the she broadens the psychology curriculum in the classroom to include the development of all intelligences and celebrates the uniqueness and diversity of all students.

Tywana Branch Faculty of the Year

Bradford attends prestigious Poynter Institute

Jayme Bradford, the first standing on the top row from the left, with other participants of the Poynter Institute seminar

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ayme L. Bradford, mass communications coordinator/ assistant professor at Voorhees College, was selected to participate in the 2011 Teaching Multimedia Journalism for 28

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College Educators seminar in February at the prestigious Poynter Institute for Advanced Journalism Studies in St. Petersburg, Fla. Twenty journalism educators from across the

country were selected to participate in the week-long institute. Bradford was the only participant representing a historically black college. Al Tompkins, senior faculty for broadcast and online, served as the seminar leader. He is also one of Bradford‟s mentors.

“Everything I know about broadcast and online journalism, I learned from Al. He actually made us shoot video and edit multimedia packages,” said Bradford.

“This information has been extremely useful in my Electronic News Gathering class. I don‟t like to be dependent on the textbook. I want to know firsthand what I am teaching about.”

Bradford has been attending professional development seminars at the institute since interning in 1992 at the St. Petersburg Times, which is affiliated with the Poynter Institute. In 2001, she participated in a teaching fellowship at Indiana University, which was co-sponsored by Poynter, and she attended the Media Convergence for College Educators seminar in 2007.

Voorhees welcomes alumnus as admissions director

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enjamin Watson will focus on increasing the number of freshman, transfer and international students in his new role as admissions director.

“I have worked in admissions at other colleges, but there is nothing like being able to use your own personal story to help a young person realize what Voorhees College has to offer,” said Watson.

Prior to returning to Voorhees, Watson served as the assistant director of admissions at The Citadel since 2007. Since he arrived at The Citadel, the institution saw a record-breaking incoming freshman class each year.

Currently, Watson is working to promote the Voorhees experience to prospective students by taking advantage of social media outlets. Additionally, he hopes that current students, faculty, staff and alumni will assist him with getting the message out about Voorhees.

“I look forward to working with the Voorhees College family to

initiate a campus-wide recruitment initiative.” Watson said.

“Each student, graduate, faculty and staff member knows someone who needs the opportunity we provide at Voorhees College, and we need them to connect us to the people they know.”

Watson, a native of Columbus, Ga., graduated from Voorhees with a degree in business administration. He received his MBA from Claflin University in 2008.

He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and currently serves as the first vice president of the Voorhees College National Alumni Association.

He is married to Valarie R. J. Watson, and they reside in North, S.C. President Sellers is looking forward to working with Watson, and said he knows that Watson will bring the experience that is needed to continually increase the number of new students.

“Voorhees is fortunate to attract someone with a history of recruiting record-breaking freshman classes as Mr. Watson,”

Benjamin Watson Admissions Director

Sellers said. “I know that he will help me meet my goal of increasing the student enrollment at Voorhees to 1200 students by 2013.”

Voorhees has „rolling admission,‟ meaning that students can apply for admission all year.

Voorhees hires program director for Male Mentorship Program

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ugene Smith was hired to serve as the program counselor for the African American Male Mentorship Program.

The purpose of the African American Male Mentorship Program is to increase retention, academic performance and personal development of first generational African American males.

Smith, who received his bachelor‟s degree in sociology from Voorhees in 2003, is looking forward to motivating the young

men of Voorhees.

“Some of the program aspects include faculty and peer mentorship, community service, financial literacy and tutoring,” Smith said.

“I look forward to working with all of the mentors and mentees so that this program will be successful.”

Since arriving at Voorhees, Smith already coordinated a freshman male recognition dinner. During this event, Smith recognized freshman males who received awards such as the highest

grade point average, mentee of the year and top student athlete.

After receiving a bachelor‟s degree from Voorhees, Smith furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Education degree in counseling/psychology. Smith is currently working on a doctoral degree at Capella University in human services.

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ALUMNI APPRECIATION

Kelson becomes co-founder of a Christian publication 2010 alumnus Travis T. Kelson, along with his wife Ayanna Kelson, are co-owners of a Christian publication, Renewed Magazine.

Renewed Magazine was first launched in November 2010, and it is based out of Hampton, Ga. The magazine is a quarterly publication that strives to transform and empower the body, mind and spirit inspirationally.

Kelson, who received a Bachelor of Science degree in organizational management from Voorhees, spoke highly of his Voorhees experience.

“Attending Voorhees was more than just getting an education, it was an experience that helped build my very foundation as a person and helped me grow as a professional,” Kelson said.

“Obtaining my degree in organizational management has really helped me to organize our business. It also allows the world to see the finished product of a Voorhees graduate on a global level. I am honored to be a Tiger.”

Pittman completes the Defense Leadership and Management Program Herbert L. Pittman, a 1984 graduate, completed the Defense Leadership and Management Program (DLAMP). He was one of 77 Department of Defense‟s senior civilian employees to graduate from DLAMP. Established in 1997 by the Department of Defense, DLAMP is the premier executive development program for senior defense civilians and a key component of the department‟s succession planning strategy.

Pittman has a bachelor‟s degree in business administration from Voorhees College, a master‟s degree in business administration from Averett University, a masters‟ degree in public affairs from Indiana University, and a master‟s degree in strategic studies and national security strategy from the U.S. Army War College.

He is an active member of the Kappa Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the National Pan-Hellenic Council, and he is president of his homeowner‟s association. Additionally, Pittman is very active in his church participating in the church youth mentoring program for young men ages 10-18.

Gaines receives alumni award from UNCF Melton Gaines received the Outstanding Alumni of the Year award sponsored by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).

He attended the awards ceremony in Birmingham, Ala. and New York City, N.Y. His picture will be placed in the Hall of Honors in Fairfax, Va. with other outstanding alumni, and it will later be moved to its new location at the UNCF headquarters in Washington, D.C. Additionally, Gaines was inducted in the National Alumni Hall of Fame during Homecoming 2010.

Gaines graduated from Voorhees with honors in 1979 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in social studies and a minor in accounting.

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Parker lands job at Johnson & Johnson in Miami

Do You Know How Many Voorhees Graduates Currently Serve or Formerly Served as College Presidents?

Take a look...

Recent graduate Tyquan Parker was hired by Johnson and Johnson as a part of the company‟s initiative to recruit more African Americans.

Parker, a 2011 graduate and native of Bennettsville, S.C., was selected to participate in the Information Technology Leadership Development Program (ITLDP). He will be relocating to Miami, Fla. during the summer for employment.

Parker‟s responsibilities will include performing basic analysis, design, implementation and maintenance activities in Information Technology (IT) and assisting in conducting feasibility studies and in the creation of solutions to IT problems.

“This program is designed to take young, fast track leaders in

the world and mold them into managers,” Parker said.

To be selected for the program, qualifications included the candidates having a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better, at least one year of work experience in IT, at least a bachelor‟s degree and demonstrating leadership skills, business acumen and technical skills.

Twenty-two-year-old Parker said he is blessed to have this opportunity and thanks Voorhees for preparing him for this role.

“Voorhees prepared me very well,” Parker said. “I owe everything that I have accomplished to Voorhees. I advise all students to take advantage of all the resources and opportunities Voorhees has to offer.”

Parker added that he knows challenges will arise, but he feels that he will be able to overcome those challenges.

“I feel that the most challenging part will be adapting to the Miami area and adjusting to the corporate environment.”

Receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science, Parker was involved in various organizations while a student including Honors College, Student Support Services Program, Mathematics and Computer Science Club and Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society.

Dr. Pamela Martin Wilson Allen University February 2011-Present

Dr. Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr. Voorhees College 2008-Present

Dr. Sandra T. Thompson Florida Memorial University Interim President August 2009-November 2010

Johnson receives master’s degree from Liberty Venus Johnson, a 2007 graduate of Voorhees, recently received a Master of Arts degree in human service counseling from Liberty University. She had a concentration in marriage and family counseling.

She currently serves as the morning radio personality and traffic programmer at the campus radio station WVCD 790 AM.

Dr. Prezell R. Robinson Saint Augustine‟s College 1967-1995 The Voorhees Voice

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1978 graduate serves as deputy director for DLA Nate Robinson Sr., a 1978 graduate, currently serves as deputy director for the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) in Battle Creek, Michigan. In this role, he manages and provides daily support to the directors for four core missions: logistics data, logistics systems, customer support/customer interaction center and information technology.

He also approves U.S. positions to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Codification System cataloging policy, data exchange standards, budget, strategy and systems modernization for potential use by 63 nations.

Additionally, he assists the director with providing leadership and oversight to 855 civilian employees and 536 contractor support personnel.

Gardner receives master’s degree Rikita Gardner, a 2009 alumna, recently received a Master of Business Administration degree from Claflin University.

Gardner is a resident of Savannah, Ga., and she is currently employed by the Technical College of the Lowcountry as a financial aid specialist.

She received a bachelorâ€&#x;s degree in accounting, and she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Columbia Alumni Chapter host planning meeting The Columbia Alumni Chapter hosted the National Alumni Association planning meeting on April 2. The purpose of the meeting was to finalize committees for the National Conference in Myrtle Beach, which was held June 10-12, establish financial goals for the year and coordinate membership drives.

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Voorhees College 2010-2011 Honor Roll of Donors It is our intent to thank all donors for investing in the growth and development of Voorhees College. Your support is crucial as we strive for excellence and to become one of the premier undergraduate institutions in the world. It will also enable us to attract the best and the brightest students and preserve the Voorhees legacy.

Care has been taken in the preparation of this report to assure complete and accurate recording. However, it is possible for errors to occur; if such is the case, the Division of Institutional Advancement would appreciate knowing as soon as possible.

This report includes gifts and contributions received July 1, 2010 – May 26, 2011. Thank you again for your loyal support.

GIVING LEVELS 21st Century Society $25,000 and Above

President’s Society $15,000 - $24,999.99 Founder’s Society $10,000 - $14,999.99 College Associates $5,000 - $9,999.99 Ebenezer Forum $3,000 - $4,999.99 Dean’s List $1,000 - $2,999.99 Scholars’ Circle $100 - $999.99 Donors’ Club Less than $100

21st Century Society $25,000 and Above Domestic & Foreign Missionary Society/ The Episcopal Church Matthew A. & Johnnie Mae Golson Tom Joyner Foundation

President’s Society $15,000 - $24,999.99 UNCF, Inc.

Founder’s Society $10,000 - $14,999.99 Alfonso Lamback AT&T Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC James L. & Rosia Gardner Jerome Geathers

College Associates $5,000 - $9,999.99 Episcopal Diocese of S.C. Milton M. Gaines Otis Flicking Scholarship Fund Patricia A. Golson The Links, Inc./Jacksonville, FL Mary Ellen Moule Joseph T. Price Nathaniel M. Robinson S.C. Bank & Trust Cleveland L. Sellers, Jr.

Ebenezer Forum $3,000 - $4,999.99 Frazier Family Foundation Union of Black Episcopalians/ DC Chapter

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Dean’s List $1,000 - $2,999.99

Scholars’ Circle $100 - $999.99

Billye S. Aaron Theodore Anderson, Jr. Association of Episcopal College Atonement Episcopal Bronx, NY Alumni Chapter Zessie Chambless JoAnn Coaxum Leroy Davis Denmark Alumni Chapter Gloria J. Donald Hezikiah Dority Episcopal Church Women of Long Island Donald L. Fowler Franklin United Methodist Church Richard C. Garrett Norma N. Givens Herman Gloster Adolph Green Clarence Grimes William Hamilton, Jr. Moses James, III Taylor H. Johnson Doris Matthews Lillie G. Miller Freddie Meyer David G. Miller Anthony J. Morley Willie B. Owens St. Claire P. Guess Rita J. Robinson Ronnie A Sabb Savannah River Operations D. L. Scurry Foundation Joseph Lloyd Serling Donald R. Small George B. Thomas Lassie L. Tobin George Voorhees James L. Weldon W.C. Marshall Scholarship Fund

Allen Anderson, Sr. Alumni Funds Eva Anderson James H. Arrington Hayward Barnwell Leland & Adra Barrows Marshall B. Bass Kenneth Baxter, Sr. Virginia K. Bell Larry B. Benjamin Beulah Grove Baptist Church Samuel Blackwell James D. Brabham Bernie Breeland Belita B. Broadus Lewis H. Brown Ruthy G. Brown Sara M. Broxton Nicholas Brumfield John E. Brunson Jonathan Burke Eustace Burnett Herbert Bynoe Viola J. Caldwell Santria Canzater Carl A. Carpenter Cynthia Carr Charleston Alumni Chapter Theodore Chaplin Shelton Clark Carl M. Cochran Joan W. Cohen Barbara Coleman Elouise A. Coleman Willie M. Cornelious Charles M. Crump Phala Daniel-Diggs Courtney L. Davenport Donella R. Davis Bernice DeLoach Benjamin Dent Vivian Dicks Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania Episcopal Diocese of Delaware Bryan K. Dirke Benjamin F. Dodd Deloris N. Donaldson

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Embassy Suites Hotel/Charleston, SC Elias Etinge Kenneth E. Evins Kathleen L. Faust Peggy S. Faust Clarence Fennell Gwendolyn J. Folk Linda W. Foster Joan C. Franks Marvin Franks Wilmer Freeman Betty J. Funderburke James Gallman William W. Gardner, Jr. Joe E. Gaskins Alfonso Gibbs Edna Glover Albertine W. Grant Janice Grant Margo L. Grant Polly B. Green Catherine O. Griffin Veronica G. Gromada Willie Green William F. Gunn, Jr. Hartford Union of Black Episcopalians Ervin E. Henderson Andraea D. Herrin F. Bruce Herrington James E. Hicks, Jr. Mary H. Houser Doris A. Houston Leonne M. Hudson W. Michael Humbert Marlene C. Ivanisko Carrie James Jefferson High Class of 1965 Willie & Lynda Jefferson Richard C. Jenkins Carolyn J. Johnson Vermelle J. Johnson Mary J. Jones Samuel Jones Dorothy D. Kennedy Timothy Kentopp Roy J. Kerlegan Theodore R. Ladson Marcel G. Lapierre Deborah K. Lawrence Connie T. Leverett

Robert Leverett Allen M. Little Karen Mack Patricia G. Major Eva O. Manigault Charles Marshall Hazel E. Martin Marie S. Martin Ruth R. Martin Mamie H. Matthews Henry & Corine Maynard Freddie McCloud Nancy McCormick Jessie N. McCormick Heyward L. McKie Harriet P. McKnight Michelle S. Meekins Joseph O. Montgomery Brooks P. Moore Christine L. Moore Theodore E. Moore Willie L. Morell Roger & Clara Moses Mt. Zion Baptist Church/Denmark, SC Lillian V. Mullino Dane H. Murray James Nimmons Lillie Nimmons-Pough V. Diane O’Berry Gwendolyn A. Parker Shirley M. Patterson Geraldine S. Pinkney Herbert L. Pittman Elizabeth Pressley-Orr Joseph T. Price Province of Sewanee Franklin D. Pryor Deborah Rand Jimmy L. Reaves Christine Redish Jessie R. Robinson Lugenia Rochelle Paul Russell Alvin Sanders Leamon Sanders Johnnie Mae Sapp John L. Scott William Scott Alfredia Session Susie W. Sexton

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Sarah R. Simpson Chandra B. Singh Betty L. Singleton Danny Singleton Evelyn M. Singleton Kenneth Singleton Peter L. Singleton Raymond Singleton Stephen N. Singleton Kathleen G. Snype Thelma Sojourner St. John’s Episcopal Church Blossie Stephens Janet Dickerson Stephens Wilson L. Steward Beverly Stewart Joy S. Streets June D. Streets Sandra Sweat Loretta A. Taylor Knox W. Tull Curtis Tyler Helen Tyler J. D. Tyler Michael Valentine Voorhees Piedmont Alumni Chapter Julia M. Walker Pamela Walker John L. Wallace Elijah Washington Benjamin O. Watson Katherine Whitaker Orlando H. White Barbara Wiggins Cecil Williams Genice E. Williams Clemmie M. Wilson Michael S. Winters, Sr. Mary Womble Xiqiang Zheng

Donors’ Club Less than $100 Sidney J. Alston Sibyl Anderson Ebony M. Armstrong Dawn Atkins Yolanda K. Bacon

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Jamal L. Bailey Catherine Bamberg Nancy Bamberg-Rivers Monae M. Barbee Candis Barnes Carla Barnwell Gloria L. Barnwell Patricia A. Bartell Wayne Battle Freddie M. Baxter Sheila Beasley Tanika Beard Jonnie Bell Bernard Bembry Walter A. Bethune Suman Bhatt Rashell L. Blake Thomas S. Blanton Jenee S. Bolton Jayme Bradford Martha Bradley Russell & Tywana C. Branch Kimberly E. Brazell Ella Breland Eddie Brooks Leslie Brooks Beryle R. Browman Britney N. Brown Clarence R. Brown Clarice Brown Connie Brown Latasha S. Brown Monica A. Brown Moses Brown Nakeya S. Brown Terrance A. Brown Vanessa Brown Latoya Brunson La’Toya F. Brunson Teesa Brunson Arthur M. Butler Jamelle Burroughs Brandon Byrd Alice Bryant Celeste Bryant Lenora J. Caldwell Jeremiah Carter Mary Cave

William T. Chandler Michael Cheaney James L. Cheatham Tammy M. Childs Jason D. Clarke Betty Cobbs Constance Colter-Brabham Thomas L. Colleton Hallie V. Conyers Winifred Crosby Cynthia M. Daniels Jacqueline S. Davis Larry Davis Sandra Davis Wiley M. Davis John M. Dean Helen R. Deas Matilda Dargan Erozi DaSilva Gerald DeVaughn Taichien Dickerson Joseph A. Dingle Diocese of Upper South Carolina Bridgett Doctor LaToya D. Dobson Lena M. Dobson Carla Donaldson Evelyn Donaldson Allen Dowling Regina J. Durham Joni Dye Lawrence Edmonds, Jr. LaToya M. Ephram Oluwaseun Fakunmoju Melina H. Favor Leslie W. Floyd Neyvonnda L. Flynn Priscilla Ferrette Audrey D. Funchess Beverly Frazier Gloria Frazier Ann L. Freeman Edwina N. Gadsden Veronical Gadsden Sha’ron A. Gaines Vera M. Gaulden Michael J. Gaynor Jane H. Geiger

Lakeisha Germany Brittany M. Gibson Jackie Givens Shantez S. Givens Kelly J. Gladney Lovette H. Glasgow Lisa Gleaton Jonathan A. Gloster Sandra Gloster Jonathan Goodman Walter Goodson Sharon R. Goodwin Shane Gorham Ashley C. Graham Myra Grant Shirley Green William & Tamekia Green Flossie C. Grundy Feng Gu LaShandra N. Hagood Eartha Hammond Paulina Hammond Lori A. Hampton Vernie L. Harney Michael Harper Oparebea Y. Harriott James J. Harris Marie S. Harrison Doris Hickson Eavon H. Hickson Glover M. Hickson Sherman R. Hickson Robert Hill LaJean M. Hogans Julia C. Horne Harry Howren Wendy Hyland Quinton A. Isaac Rose Islar Sherry C. Ivery Melika Jackson Merita J. Jackson Talarria S. Jackson Tamara Jackson Freddie James Omar M. James Glenn L. Jeffcoat Barbara A. Jefferson

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Shirley R. Jefferson Jade J. Jenkins Veronica W. Jenkins Vanessa R. Jennings Latasha N. Joe Justin S. Johnson Bridgett Johnson-Doctor Ira Johnson Josephine E. Johnson Yolanda D. Johnson Desta B. Jones Joseph Jones Letha Hall Jones Thomas H. Jones Wanda J. Jones Kendra S. Jordan Y. W. Kinlaw Cheryl Knight Horace T. Lamback, Jr. Osha D. Lane Kyle S. Lawton Gloria Lebby Melvin Lewis Tifanie Lewis Rochelle R. Link Courtney Livingston Jasper Lloyd Stacey L. Manigault Bennie Manuel Yvonne W. Manning Hazel Martin Lionell Martin Tanya Martino Rekha Mathur Mecca Mays-Holman Karmaine T. McClary George McCray Kelly A. McCray Edward McMorris Mary N. McTeer Shirley A. Miller Derwin C. Mitchell Mark D. Mitchell Ester Renee Moffitt Barbara Moore Wilhelmina S. Moore Bernard Moses Ebony V. Moses

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The Voorhees Voice

Marie Myers Edith M. Nimmons Wanda Nimmons Adrian L. Odom Tekara M. Odom Constance M. Paino Latoyia N. Palmer Mustafa Palmer Natalie T. Pascoe Nikita L. Patten Eddie & Dorothy Patterson Mark Paul Arnold Pierce Karey L. Poinsette George Pondexter Don Powell Jason W. Powell Connie Priester-Robinson Bobby Priester Keshia J. Priester Taneka R. Priester Georgia A. Prince Keisha R. Prophet Dwight S. Rabb Maurice Ransom Jamal J. Rasheed Gregory Ray Natalie Z. Raysor Richard Reid Willie Rice Christine N. Richberg Stephen Rifenburgh Ella Risi Ella M. Rivers Nicole Rivers Gwendolyn Robinson Janay M. Robinson Lorinda Robinson P. Thomas Rogers James A. Ross Sandra Rouse Ilean G. Rowe Gloria A. Ruth Carlette P. Sanders Shakeya S. Sanders Brenda Sabb Gloria Savage Aaron J. Shaw

Veronica Shaw Harvey E. Shiver Chandra Singh Robin P. Sligh-Johnson Angie T. Sims Yvonne Singleton Joshua E. Slaughter Latrica V. Smalls Ave-Marie Smith Carolyn T. Smith Carrie Smith Grace E. Smith Lionnell Q. Smith Brenda Spellman Derrick A. Spriggs St. Barnabas Episcopal Church Loretta Stackhouse Brittiane Staton Joseph Staton Douglas L. Stephens Joe Staton Ketha Stokes Stephanie Stokes Jelani L. Stubbs Lisa Stuckey Curtiss Sumner James Swinton Keith Tarrant Carla D. Taylor Gwendolyn Timms Cynthia Thompson Alvin Tuck Moriah Vaughn Robert F. Voorhees Shameeka L. Waiters Trina N. Walker April D. Ward Inell Waring Erica Washington LaKeshia Watts Adrian West Pia S. West Harold E. Whetstone Teri Whetstone Tamatha White Jerrell M. Wilburn Evonne Wiggins Clair Williams

Cory G. Williams Debra Williams Deloris A. Williams Dorothy F. Williams Jarvis Williams Myrtis D. Williams Shampale F. Williams Valrie Williams Willie W. Williams Ebony A. Wilson Marvin Wilson Dwight E. Womble Earl Woodberry Iris Woodson-Trapp Julian A. Yarwood 5/26/2011

Thank you for supporting our education!

The Voorhees Voice

39

In Memory Ruby Gilyard ‘71 Harold Grant ‘72 Jessie Jones Jr. Ralph Eugene McMillian Robert Elmore Steedly ‘58 Jerome M. Summers Tonya Barnwell Thomas ‘97 Yolanda Wright Waring ‘89

Changing Minds. Changing Lives.

Alumni and Supporters…

Voorhees needs your help with contributing to a student‟s education at the institution.

Please continue to commit yourself to enabling more students to receive a quality education. Donate NOW to Voorhees College.

You may donate online by visiting www.voorhees.edu/give or you may mail a check to the following address: Voorhees College Division of Institutional Advancement P.O. Box 678 Denmark, South Carolina 29042 For more information, contact the Division of Institutional Advancement at (803) 780-1191 or visit Voorhees online at www.voorhees.edu.

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The Voorhees Voice

SPECIAL NOTICE TO ALUMNI AND FRIENDS FROM: OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS TO: VOORHEES COLLEGE ALUMNI & FRIENDS RE: THE VOORHEES VOICE MAGAZINE

The Voorhees Voice magazine will continually be published twice an academic year; however, due to the downturn in the economy and fiscal restraints, the Office of Communications can no longer provide free copies of the magazine to the thousands of alumni and friends we serve. As a courtesy, we will post portions of the magazine on the college Web site.

Please visit www.voorhees.edu for more information.

If you would like to continue receiving a hardcopy of The Voorhees Voice, we encourage you to contact us and subscribe to the magazine for only $30 a year. Your subscription will help us reduce costs and continue to provide you with a quality college magazine to enjoy to keep you updated on events happening at Voorhees!

To subscribe to The Voorhees Voice Magazine, please mail a check or money order in the amount of $30 to:

Office of Communications P.O. Box 678 Denmark, SC 29042 Attn: Voorhees Voice Annual Subscription

You can also visit us online at www.voorhees.edu/give to make your payment. You will receive a copy of the magazine twice an academic year.

NOTE: Be sure to indicate that your payment is for your subscription to The Voorhees Voice magazine.

Office of Communications Booker T. Washington Building 803-780-1194

Voorhees College Division of Institutional Advancement P.O. Box 678 Denmark, SC 29042

Changing Minds. Changing Lives.