"The Beacon" University College , ASU

Page 1 | UC Beacon | ISSUE 1 | Fall 2020

FIRST EDITION

Beacon Digital Newsletter | University College, Alabama State University

Beacon…

Welcome

to the Fall 2020 edition of The Beacon, a

digital newsletter of the University College (UC) of the Alabama State University. The Beacon will feature academic updates, announcements on college events, faculty and student achievements, and opportunities. The contents of the UC Beacon are primarily focused on the ASU campus community and, more specifically, on current and future UC students. We encourage UC students, faculty, and members of the River Region community to contribute to future issues of The Beacon.

The bulletin will be circulated annually via ASU e-mail. Archive copies will also be available at the UC website.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE… • Meet the UC PRC • UC Dean’s Message • UC Chair’s Column • UC Honors Program • UC Interdisciplinary Studies • Reading Center • Writing Center • Trio Programs • GIS Certificate Program • US Legacy Forum • AMSA Conference Recap • UC Events • UC Retirements • UC Program Contacts

2-2 3-3 4-4 5-5 6-6 7-7 8-8 9-9 10-10 11-14 15-21 22.24 25-28 29-29

Photo: Ram Alagan

CONTACT: UC Public Relation Committee 122 Paterson Hall | 915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery | AL 36104 Tel: 334-604-9014| ralagan@alasu.edu

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MEET The PRC

Students, Colleagues, and Friends of the College:

Ram Alagan ralagan@alasu.edu

Jamicia Croskery jcroskery@alasu.edu

The University College Public Relations Committee (PRC) is thrilled to announce the 2020 edition of this digital newsletter, The Beacon. We welcome this opportunity to recognize the progress, achievements, challenges and legacy of The University College in building bridges through the University and beyond; in linking ASU academic tradition and cutting-edge research to real-world applications of the College. We believe that The Beacon will continue to serve as a foundation for enhanced faculty-student communication, professional development, scholarly discourse, and, most importantly, to highlight UC's productivity for future generations.

This edition focuses on the achievements, developments, and contributions from our present and retired faculty during the 2019-2020 academic year. It also highlights student achievements within the UC and their experiences at ASU. This volume also gives focus to UCaffiliated programs, committee forums, and conferences. It also recognizes the professional accomplishments of our colleagues, students, and new academic programs.

We are so grateful to those who have submitted items to the Spring 2020 Beacon. We encourage UC faculty members and students to contribute news of their academic programs' achievements and plans.

We also encourage submissions regarding faculty and students' research and conferences (published or presented) and cross-college collaborative research. Finally, while we celebrate the 153rd year of the remarkable history of ASU, The Beacon Newsletter Committee also pledges to carry on our UC tradition and values in future volumes.

Felicia Sharpe fedwards@alasu.edu

Sincerely, University College Public Relation Committee

Seela Aladuwaka saladuwaka@alasu.edu

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

Photo: Photo:Ram RamAlagan Alagan

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DEAN’S MESSAGE

Dear Colleagues and Readers: University College continues to be a “Beacon of Light” for students attending Alabama State University. This academic unit has served students for 44 years with its programs and activities to help them become professionals and outstanding citizens.

In University College, we continue to rethink classroom experiences and activities to help students become future ASU Ambassadors prepared to meet the world’s challenges.

This requires constantly researching what is working and how to improve teaching and learning through continued dialogue and sharing. A recent major focus of University College has been working with campus units to better support First-Generation College students to be successful.

We were delighted to participate in ASU ‘s 2020 QEP experience for the reaffirmation of accreditation of the university by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges through reflecting on classroom strategies and pedagogy for the ASU Freshmen Experience Course. Through partnerships with campus units, we continue to make progress for the university’s new Hornets.

Photo: Ram Alagan

Dr. Evelyn Hodge, Dean University College ehodge@alasu.edu

University Colleges nationally are the institutional units that provide programs designed for collaboration and partnerships campus-wide to help students reach their professional goals. The W.E.B. Dubois Honor’s Program and the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies program are interdisciplinary and require great collaboration campus-wide to help students accomplish their goals and move forward.

Congratulations to Dr. Ram Alagan, Professor of Geography and Chief Editor and leader of BEACON publication and the University College Beacon Newsletter team. The University College BEACON Newsletter showcases the college’s best activities for helping ASU students thrive and succeed through special programs such as the Alabama-Mississippi Sociological Association Conference, held February 27-28, 2020. Dr. Alagan served as conference chairperson and worked diligently with an extraordinary team of conference planners to make this event extremely memorable using the theme, “Social Scientists Journey in Civil Rights Corridor: After the Dream.’’

I commend all University College’s managers and units for their fine work and initiatives in helping students achieve academically and professionally. Thank you especially and foremost to students for your diligence with class activities, special programs and so much more. We are very proud of you.

University College embraces the theme, “The Time is Now!” It is always a great time to be a Hornet!

Evelyn A. Hodge, Ph.D. | Dean of University College UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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CHAIR’S COLUMN

Dear University College Students: Welcome to Alabama State University! When you step onto the Alabama State University campus you will enter an environment filled with endless possibilities. As a new student in University College, you will be free to explore at Alabama State University. This means that we invite you to use your time in University College at Alabama State University to expand your mind, encounter new challenges, examine your beliefs, and experience the richness of our campus community. No two students will explore in precisely the same way, which is what makes this place so fantastic.

You will learn from and with one another, and you each will contribute your own personality and perspective. My hope for you is that you will embrace Alabama State University to the fullest extent. Additionally, I hope you will use your education to become the best version of yourself, and that you will assist other Alabama State University students to do the same. People will tell you that college is the best four years of your life, and that may or may not turn out to be true for you, since you will have countless years beyond Alabama State University to experience

Parichart G. Thornton, PhD Office of Interdisciplinary Studies, Director Department of Advancement Studies, Interim Chair

tremendous joys and successes. But while you are here, notice what’s around you. Ask questions. Think. Wonder. Dream. I look forward to supporting your academic and personal success at Alabama State University!

Sincerely, Parichart G. Thornton, PhD

(Photo: Ram Alagan)

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W.E.B. Du Bois Honors Program Staff

HONORS @ UC

UC | Honors Program

By Cynthia Harris

Students, Colleagues, and Friends of the College: Alabama State University’s W.E.B. Du Bois Honors Program is designed to challenge academically strong and talented students. As a member of ASU’s honors program, students will join a cohort of firstyear Presidential and Academic scholars. The program seeks to provide opportunities for participating students to pursue outstanding and independent academic achievement and offer participating students an educational experience beyond the standard curriculum.

Dr. Cynthia Harris, Director University’s W.E.B. Du Bois Honors Program Alabama State University cashley@alasu.edu (334) 229-4559

The mission of the W.E.B. Du Bois Honors Program is to recruit academically strong and self-motivated students who will complete an accelerated and challenging program of study designed to prepare them for the rigors of the academy at not only the undergraduate level, but also at the post-undergraduate level. A large number of students recruited for the honors program plan to continue their academic matriculation beyond the undergraduate level; therefore, a primary mission of the honors program is to assist students in assembling the necessary credentials, documents, and examination scores needed to facilitate a smooth transition from Alabama State University to the graduate schools of their major areas of concentration.

Some of our honors students have participated in the National Association of African American Honors Programs (NAAAHP) Conference. This year, ASU’s Honors Director was voted Vice President of the NAAAHP. Other students have won national scholarships from donors such as the Tom Joyner Foundation and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.

Denise Roy Administrative Assistant/ Honors Coordinator ddroy@alasu.edu (334) 604-8047

The honors program consists of a two-member staff - the director, Dr. Cynthia Harris, and the administrative assistant/honors coordinator, Denise Roy. .

Photos: Cynthia Harris & Ram Alagan

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

Source: Penn State.Edu Photo: Penn State University Beacon | ISSUE 1 | Fall 2020

B.I.S. @ UC

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The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (B.I.S) University College

By Carolyn Davis The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (B.I.S) degree provides educational opportunities not available through the existing, traditional degree programs. The mission of the Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies emphasizes an open learning experience and a wider perspective versus a traditional undergraduate major.

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies offers the student the opportunity to participate in a flexible, coherent, academically sound, and goal-oriented education relevant to their intellectual development and career aspirations. The individualized academic focus and flexibility the B.I.S program are appropriate for students preparing to enter the workplace and for those who plan to continue their studies in graduate or professional school.

The BIS program is rapidly growing and has over 275 students enrolled in the program. Our office is located in Patterson Hall, Room 152. Our office number is 334-229-7620 and email address is crdavis@alasu.edu.

B.I.S. Staff: Dr. Parichart Thornton, Director and Instructor | Mrs. Carolyn Davis, Program Coordinator/Academic Advisor | Dr. Cynthia Steele, BIS Liaison | Dr. Shafonda Spain, Instructor | Mrs. Thomasina Austin, Instructor | Ms. Jamicia Croskery, Writing Coach

Photo: Carolyn Davis

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Reading Center

The ASU Reading Center

By Linda Humphrey

The ASU Reading Center is located at 223 Paterson Hall and is open to all ASU students and provides a range of services including: • • •

Computer-based assessments, vocabulary development, and reading comprehension activities One-to-one and small group tutoring by certified instructors and trained tutors Workshops focusing on • Study Skills • Testing Strategies • Critical Thinking and Reasoning Skills

In addition to supplemental activities designed to strengthen all skills related to reading, the ASU Reading Center is a resource facility for students and faculty and maintains a variety of periodicals, a reference area, novels, and a selection of biographies. Also available are enrichment materials ranging from poetry and literary excerpts to consumer information. The Center maintains an atmosphere that encourages reading, thinking, and studying.

The Reading Center has collected almost one thousand books in recent years, as we have participated in book drives for Read Across America and the Equal Justice Initiative’s BOOKS, NOT BARS campaign; moreover, to commemorate the Sixtieth Anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, we donated hundreds of books to E.D. Nixon Elementary School and Johnnie Carr Middle School.

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

Photos: Ms. Humphrey

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Writing Center

The ASU Writing Center

By Dr. Felicia Taylor

The central mission of the Writing Center is to encourage, guide, and assist student writers as they work through the writing process to better express or promote individual ideas and thoughts in written form while demonstrating sentence skills, grammatical and mechanical proficiency, and style. One primary goal of the Center is to help students become selfdirected, independent, confident writers who are able to understand and use standard American English effectively.

Largely, Center instructors and tutors accomplish this feat by actively engaging students in the writing process through a series of measures including skills review, guided practice, online interactive computer quizzes, computer assisted tutorial packages, and independent practice with essay writing assignments.

In addition, the Writing Center helps students identify specific strategies to effectively accomplish assigned tasks and to help students become effective writers. One strategy that has proven most effective is asking students to read their work aloud. This allows students to discover, on their own, errors in word choice, spelling, punctuation, and clarity. For those students who have consistent or egregious grammatical and mechanical problems, the Center has available computer assisted programs which allow students numerous practice opportunities and the opportunity to work at their own pace. Still, other students may need individualized one-on-one assistance. In this instance, Writing Center instructors and tutors are available to conference with students and to assist them in revising drafts and in recognizing grammatical and mechanical deficiencies with greater ease and success. Teaching students to edit their own work is just one method of helping students become independent thinkers and writers.

LOCATION: PH 143 TELEPHONE #: 229-4320

One primary goal of the writing center is to help students become self-directed, independent, confident writers who are able to understand and use standard American English effectively.

Photos: Felicia Sharpe

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TRIO Programs

The ASU TRiO Programs

By Dr. Acquanetta M. Pinkard

The TRiO

programs at Alabama State has a rich history in serving students at ASU and the River Region community. Of the eight programs under the TRIO Federal Grant Programs, ASU has been awarded three. The oldest TRIO programs are our Upward Bound and Educational Talent Search programs, which have been in existence for more than 30 years on the campus of ASU. The grant programs are all issued on five-year cycles.

Recently the Students Support Services project was awarded an additional five-year cycle, which will lend to the 25-year life of the program at ASU. The TRIO’s pre-College programs are responsible for recruiting approximately 796 participants collectively each year from 12 of the River Region's middle and high schools. These programs provide academic counseling, tutorial services, college preparatory courses, and information dissemination. We are proud of the impact these programs have made over the years on the campus of ASU and the community.

Just as the university as a whole has had to pivot due to the challenges of Covid-19, the program staff have managed to switch their mode of program delivery while continuing to deliver quality virtual workshops, summer programs, and individual service delivery. Over the summer, Upward Bound held its first virtual summer program with 25 students in participation. In addition to regular coursework in basic core subjects (math, English, science, social studies), participants were engaged in hands-on virtual STEM instruction provided by Fun Weird Science.

Also, the Educational Talents Search Program conducted their first Virtual ACT Summer Bootcamp and STEM Adventures camp. Through a supplemental award, Talent Search was provided $40,000 in additional funds to engage students in exploring STEM careers.

In addition, the TRIO programs, in partnership with ASU's QEP program, celebrated National First GEN on the campus of ASU during the week of November 2nd. The celebration was an opportunity for the ASU community to join institutions across the nation in bringing awareness to the challenges of first-generation students and highlight the successes of students, faculty, and staff that are first-generation. The celebration was comprised of a week of activities that included a first-gen vote social media campaign, faculty and staff panel discussion that was aired via Facebook and WVAS radio with Ms. Melanie Hogan as our facilitator, and several national activities hosted by the Council on Education that were featured through social media. The Committee, which consisted of Dr. Rolanda Horn, Dr. Acquanetta Pinkard, Ms. Shae Robinson, Dr. Denise Vaugh, Raymond Green, and George Williamson, would like to send a big thank you to the panelist that gave of their time and shared their firstgeneration stories. These individuals included Dr. Derryn Moten, LaPaul Blackmon, Dr. Kimberly King-Jupiter, Ms. Shae Robinson, and Mr. Demond Moore. We invite the ASU community to join us in future celebrations.

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G.I.S. @ UC

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Proposed Geographic Information Science (GIS) Certificate

By Dr. Elisha Dung, Dr. Ram Alagan, Dr. Seela Aladuwaka, Dr. Paul Erhunmwunsee, and Dr. Daniel McGowin

The Alabama State University Office of Academic Affairs has tasked Colleges and Departments to be viable by introducing new programs. Pursuant to this goal, the Geography faculty in the Department of Advancement Studies are working on a proposal for a Geographic Information Science (GIS) Certificate. This endeavor is directly tied to the Institutional goals of (a) holistic student engagement and (b) robust academic programs and leadership.

The proposed certificate in GIS reflects the University College’s commitment to the continued educational development of the local, state, national and global labor force. A major outcome of this program will be that participants will enhance their knowledge base and broaden their skills while increasing their employability odds. Employment opportunities for certificate holders will include project development, management and assessment positions in organizations that address the geographical distribution of societal problems, environmental management, transportation development, population studies, community health risks,

environmental justice, civil rights issues, and incarceration and rehabilitation (law enforcement Issues).

The proposed GIS Certificate is intended to introduce new knowledge and provide graduates with inter-disciplinary skills that expand employment opportunities, making them employable in a range of disciplines relevant to cities and the urban milieu. It is intended for persons who are pursuing or have earned bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice, Geography, and Sociology or other related fields such as Psychology, Anthropology, History, Business Management, Social Work, Community or Public Health, Environmental Studies, Political Science, Economics, and STEM education. Geography faculty members in the department, as well as qualified professionals from other disciplines, will deliver the instruction. The curriculum will consist of extant undergraduate courses in Advancement Studies and Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) along with proposed new courses. Currently, out of 105 HBCUs in the US, very few are either offering or exposed to GIS teaching. If the Department of Advancement Studies at ASU achieves this goal of developing a certificate course in GIS, it would be a milestone achievement in HBCU educational history.

Completing the GIS Certificate will offer students a wide range of intellectual perspectives such as cutting edge research techniques (use of and application of applied statistics, and statistical packages such as SPSS, Computer-Assisted Qualitative Data Analysis Software, Multimedia GIS, Microsoft Office Word, PowerPoint and Excel programs for presentation of research findings and proposals, and exposure and proficiency in the GIS software) and hands-on field experiences that would allow for the application of newly acquired knowledge and skills to real world scenarios. The acquisition of this GIS Certificate will enhance access to a wide range of career opportunities across private and public sectors both locally and nationally.

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UC Legacy FORUM

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We Gone Keeping on Walking A Reflection of the Contributions of University College to the legacy of Resistance and Advancement

By Dr. Robert White While the world celebrates the 65th Anniversary of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, what is not fully understood is the role that Alabama State College in general and University College specifically played in the success of the movement and the advancement of thousands of students. One of the glaring rays of light emanating from the light of ASU history is the character and personality of its faculty, many of whom played and continue to play a major role in the social and political atmosphere of the world.

Another gleaming aspect of the legacy of Marion Green has been the students who have graced the campus with creativity and spunk. To know that our University began as a vision of 9 ex-slaves in Marion Alabama partially financed by funds left over from the successful legal defense of the African mutineers of the Amistad shows the mystic tie between past struggles and current challenges.

Booker T. Washington did all he could to stop the

arrival of our college to Montgomery, but the city’s black businessmen decided to raise the money to relocate the school after it outgrew Marion. The task of taking students, some of whom have been victimized or neglected by an overtly unequal and racist system, was a noble task which was

undertaken with the highest zeal, capsulized with the creation of University College. The establishment of academic laboratories, developmental classes, tutorials and the establishment and proliferation of the Federal TRIO Programs served to boost the vitality and potential of first generation or underprivileged students. University College served as an incubator for brilliance, inspiring the creative genius of the various educators, musicians, businessmen and scientists. Before a student made it to their major courses of study, they had to cross the burning sands of University College.

Within the HBCU ethos is the relationship between education and the push for freedom. Specifically, University College has contributed greatly to the enthusiasm of academic engagement on the part of faculty and students regarding the need to study the African American experience as an academic discipline.

From the writing across the curriculum activities to the W.E.B Du Bois Honors program, University College has since its inception created an objective standard of studying the African American experience. The crown jewel of University College and its sub-division, the Department of Advancement Studies, was the creation of a required humanities course designed to use the art and literature that African Americans had produced to tell the story of the African American experience. This meant that every student had to pass a class on the African American experience before matriculating into their major course of study. The building which housed the program for years, George W. Trenholm Hall, is not only the location of the Thelma Glass Auditorium (which previously served as the school library) but is the location of the Department of Political Science and History chaired by the famous Dr. Lawrence Reddick. Until recently, not enough has been done, to emphasize the contribution that Dr. Reddick made to the Conti.

Photo Sources: zinnedproject.org : History.com : Britannica.com

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UC Legacy FORUM

Page 12 | UC Beacon | ISSUE 1 | Fall2020 We Gone Keeping on Walking.. overall study of the African American experience. It was a former University College faculty, Dr. Darren Moten, who has done this through the republishing of Reddick’s autobiography of Martin Luther King. It was in Trenholm Hall where Martin Luther King settled to complete his doctoral studies and it was the faculty of Alabama State College that facilitated the fight against local and then global injustice.

Mary Fair Burke, Joanne Robinson, Thelma Glass and Dr. Lawrence Reddick are four names associated with our history that are synonymous with goals of justice and equality. The lawsuits that changed the world were filed by, argued by and represented by ASU personalities. The speeches, mass meetings and organization of the boycotters and protesters are ASU personalities. The leading scholars of today and tomorrow are ASU personalities. Some are mentioned in this piece and some are not. Yet the names mentioned and the names of others who remain in anonymity are posthumously displayed in the heavenly halls of justice and peace and the invocation of which should serve to awaken us from our slumber and revive to renew our commitment to the high calling of educating the least of these my brethren.

Despite our challenge, University College will keep on walking into the bright and glorious future.

University College Played a Pivotal Role at the ASU’s 2020 President’s Bus Tour The ASU's 2020 President's Bus Tour kicked off with an ambitious goal to recruit some of the best and brightest minds in towns and cities across the states of Alabama and Georgia. A large number of University College faculty and students have participated and contributed to President Quinton T. Ross's ambitious drive. The student recruitment events were highly successful.

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UC Legacy FORUM

University College Faculty at the Huntsville AL | ASU 2020 President’s Bus Tour

Photos: Ram Alagan

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UC Legacy FORUM

University College Faculty at the Mobile AL | ASU 2020 President’s Bus Tour

Photos: Ram Alagan

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A-MSA 2020

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University College Leadership at the 51st Alabama-Mississippi Sociological Association:

By Ram Alagan and Seela Aladuwaka The 51st Alabama-Mississippi Sociological Association (A-MSA) was held at Alabama State University (ASU). Under Dr. Ram Alagan's presidency and the well-coordinated teamwork with University College and College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences faculty and students' support, the conference accomplished another milestone.

Dean Evelyn Hodge of the University College provided her leadership support in several ways, including delivering a Dean's Message during the conference's keynote speech session. The 51st annual conference highlighted the ASU leadership and its fourth A-MSA presidency. Dr. Alagan's presidency extends ASU's legacy of A-MSA leadership. The past ASU A-MSA Presidents include Dr. J. Garrick Hardy (1972), Dr. Anthony Troy Adams (2015), and Dr. Brenda I. Gill (2018).

ASU was well represented at the 51st annual AMSA Conference. The conference's 2020 theme was "Social Scientists Journey in Civil Rights Corridor: AFTER THE DREAM." The year 2020 conference pledged to connect presenters and participants from diverse social and science backgrounds to discuss past, present and future social, political, environmental and cultural challenges and the social reckoning those challenges have birthed. The theme of the conference was profoundly significant during the critical time we live in the United States. Indeed, many of the accepted oral and poster presentations highlighted the crucial theme of the conference.

Photo: Ram Alagan

During the 2020 conference, the Keynote Speaker, ASU faculty and students were highly visible and elevated HBCU's traditions of intellectual excellence. The 51st annual Plenary speaker, Former State Sen. Hank. Sanders, delivered an outstanding speech on "Our Journey in the Civil Rights Corridor: Post Dream." The address drew A-MSA participants' attention to the past, present and future of our civil rights struggle.

Dr. Tanjula Petty, Interim Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs, ASU, also delivered welcoming remarks at the conference.

The conference celebrated a fabulous reception ceremony with an extraordinary speech by Ms. Doris Youngblood on "Women's Role in the Civil Rights Movement." Ms. Youngblood, a longserving faculty member at the University College, participated in the Selma to Montgomery March from the campus to the state capitol. A dance performance from the student Beta Phi Alpha Dance Honor Society took the center stage during the reception and it was an outstanding event.

They had graciously accepted our invitation and performed a series of exceptionally choreographed performances during the reception. We hope you will enjoy the recaps of the 2020 A-MSA conference from the next few pages.

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Former State Sen. Hank. Sanders

Dr. Ram Alagan

2020 A-MSA RECAP

Dr. Evelyn Hodge

Dr. Robert White

Dr. Tanjula Petty

Ms Doris Youngblood

Photos: Ram Alagan

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2020 A-MSA RECAP

Photos: Ram Alagan

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2020 A-MSA RECAP

Photos: Ram Alagan

UC Members’ Performance

@ A-MSA 2020 Conference UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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2020 A-MSA RECAP

Photos: Ram Alagan

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A-MSA RECEPTION Speaker

University College

teaching staff Ms. Doris Youngblood delivered a memorable keynote speech at the reception ceremony of the Alabama-Mississippi Sociological Association conference in 2020. Ms. Youungblood is the daughter of the late James and Jewel Faulk, sister to Minnie Jewel, Ollie Faulk and Jesse Faulk, and is a native Alabamian, a Yellow Jacket, a Hornet, and an Owl, respectively. She is a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School and Alabama State University in Montgomery, Alabama and Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

She was an active participant in academic and athletic activities. Notable former teachers included Mrs. Helen Green, Mrs. Josie Lawrence, Ms. E. M. Reasor, and her sophomore English teacher, the sports announcer for all home football game, and the inspirer for her enrolling at the Alabama State University. At ASU, she is a classroom leader in campus activities and community events. Ms. Youngblood graciously accepted our invitation and delivered a memorable speech on women's role in the Civil Rights March. Several women leaders have dedicated and contributed to the Civil Rights moment.

However, few were given a prominent place in history while several others' contributions were not recognized. Our experience of freedom today wouldn't be legitimate unless women leaders sacrificed during the Civil Rights movement. This was one of the main focuses of the speech, and Ms. Youngblood has connected women's role during the Civil Rights Movement with the conference theme "Social Scientists Journey in Civil Rights Corridor: AFTER THE DREAM." She also encouraged ASU’s young female participants to revisit and study women's role in the Civil Rights struggles. She suggested we not forget that women leaders were the foundation of the Civil Rights moment, and young

college female students should appreciate it.

Photo: Ram Alagan

2020 A-MSA Reception Speaker

Doris F. Youngblood “Women's Role in the Civil Rights Movement”

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A-MSA POSTER PRESENTATION

A-MSA 2020 Undergraduate Students Poster Competition - ASU Students Took Center Stage

By Dr. Seela Aladuwaka The 2020 Alabama-Mississippi Sociological Association had an outstanding students' poster session.

Undergraduate students from Alabama and Mississippi had an opportunity to participate and present their research. ASU undergraduate students were well represented in the poster session, and most of the students were from the University College. Various topics were covered in posters, including poverty, mental disability, human trafficking, health disparities and the immigration crisis. The poster session was one of the highlights at the conference. At annual conferences, A-MSA provides awards by selecting three outstanding posters. Although all posters were of high quality, only three were selected for awards.

All students who participated received a certificate for their participation.

FIRST PLACE: "The Losing Battle in the Black Belt Region: Cancer Among African American Population" poster was selected for the first place and presented by Juanita Riles and Kearra Cooper from ASU. This poster focused on the severity of cancer and health disparities in the Blackbelt region's African American community.

SECOND PLACE: "Human Trafficking in the Southern United States" poster was awarded second place. This was presented

by Rashaylia Bell, Tionne Moncrief, Desmond Pastor and Ayanna Williams, all representatives of the W.E.B. Du Bois Honors Program. The poster was intended to raise greater awareness and an in-depth understanding of the serious problem of human trafficking in the US South.

THIRD PLACE: "Immigration and the Humanitarian Crisis at the USMexico Border" poster was awarded third place. This poster was presented by Kristel Tshabalala, Jayla Poe, Nathan Wright and Robert Mukuchura. They were also representatives of the W.E.B. Du Bois Honors Program. This presentation examined the current immigration crisis at the US-Mexico border and the challenges immigrants encounter in the process.

Photos: Ram Alagan

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Advancement Studies Chat n Chew -2019

UC - Events

UC - Writing Boot Camp - 2019

By Felicia Sharpe Preparing students for future opportunities was the focus of the Resume and Cover Letter Writing Boot Camp held on Monday, October 9, 2019 in the Writing Center. Students were given the tools and resources to format their resume during a Writing Boot Camp series that focused on preparing students today for tomorrow's opportunities. The Writing Center faculty fostered conversation, communication, and collaboration to equip students with knowledge and a better understanding all of which was centered on resume and cover letter writing.

Photo: Felicia Sharpe

Photos: Ram Alagan

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

Students asked questions about the appropriate length for a resume, and the contents of a cover letter, where the job posting was found, candidate’s attributes, and how they will be beneficial for prospective employers. It is safe to say the Resume Writing and Cover letter Boot Camp was successful and beneficial to the participants, some of whom were winners in the Resume and Speed Networking competition that was sponsored by the National Alumni Association at Career Day on Monday, October 28, 2019.

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UC - Events

UC - Annual Freshman Convocation and Honors Convocation-2019 and 2020

By Margie Thomas, Seela Aladuwaka, and Jamicia Croskery

The University College Freshman Convocation and Honors Convocation for 2019 and 2020 were held in the Ralph D. Abernathy Auditorium. The purpose of the Freshman Convocation is to welcome freshmen to Alabama State University and motivate and encourage them to be successful in College. The Honors Convocation provides an opportunity to showcase the academic achievements of freshmen based on their GPA. Mrs. Margie Thomas is the Chair of the University College Convocation Committee and her efforts with this initiative are greatly appreciated.

These events are highly successful and encouraging for ASU students during the first year of matriculation at Alabama State University. University College Convocation Committee members include Dr. Evelyn Hodge (Dean of University College), Dr. Parichart Thornton (Interim Chair of the Department of Advancement Studies and the Director of Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies Program), Dr. Seela Aladuwaka, Jamicia Croskery, Felicia Frazier, Corie Muhammad, Sondra Obas, Dr. Acquanetta Pinkard, Denise Roy, Gail Sellers, Dr. Cynthia Steele, Clinton Maryland and Mary Wise.

The spring 2019 University College Honors Convocation was held on Tuesday, March 5, 2019 in the Abernathy Auditorium. During this event, University College Freshman students who had high GPA’s and had achieved academic excellence were acknowledged for their accomplishments during the first year at the university. All honorees participated in a pinning ceremony. Students were encouraged to continue their pursuit of academic excellence until graduation from Alabama State University.

Conti.

ASU Facebook Virtual Video Fall 2020

UC Honors Convocation Committee

Photos: Ram Alagan, Leavie King, Felicia Frazier, Sondra Obas, Cynthia Steele

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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UC - Events

The University College Fall Freshman Convocation began with a blast. The speaker was Mr. Leavie D. King, sought after motivational speaker of the educational company COACHED UP for Success. The speaker’s theme was “The U in ASU.” The speaker mesmerized the freshmen, encouraging and motivating them to focus on their goals and how to be successful in College.

Additionally, the 2020 UC Honors Convocation was held on March 5 in the Abernathy Auditorium and the theme was “Academic Success: Thriving for Greatness.” Dr. Carl S. Pettis, Provost for the Academic Affairs, welcomed students and encouraged them to continue their excellent academic performance. Dr. Robert White, Associate Professor of Humanities, gave an outstanding speech and encouraged students to persist and maintain their status or title as honors students.

University College held a virtual Freshman Convocation for Fall 2020 with a dynamic speaker, Pastor Courtney Meadows, who was engaging and exciting with the theme “Pivoting Towards Success.” Pastor Meadows delivered a motivational speech encouraging freshman students to work diligently during their academic endeavors and stand up for what they believe in. Drs. Hodge and Thornton provided encouraging remarks to the new ASU students.

UC Fall 2019 Freshman Convocation Spring 2020 Honors Convocation

Photos Source: Leavie King

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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UC Retirement

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University College Retirement Recaps Mrs. Beverly Bassett Mr. Calvin Gatson Dr. Shirley Jordan Mr. Clinton Maryland

Photos: Ram Alagan

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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UC Retirement

Best Moments of UC - Retirement Mrs. Beverly Bassett, Mr. Calvin Gatson, Dr. Shirley Jordan, & Mr. Clinton Maryland

Photos: Ram Alagan

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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UC Retirement

Dr. Paul Erhunmwunsee Retirement

Photos: Ram Alagan

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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UC Retirement

Best Moments of UC - Retirement Dr. Paul Family

Photos: Ram Alagan

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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UC-Programs Contacts

University College Contacts Programs and Departments

University College Dean, Dr. Evelyn Hodge GW Trenholm Hall (334) 604-8103 ehodge@alasu.edu UC Secretary: Mrs. Felicia Frazier 101 GW Trenholm Hall (334) 229-4169 ffrazier@alasu.edu Trio Program Dr. Acquanetta Pinkard 109 McGhee Hall 334-229-6031 apinkard@alasu.edu TP Secretary: Ms. LaShunda Ware 109 McGhee Hall 334-229-6026 lware@alasu.edu

Department of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) Dr. Parichart Thornton, Interim Chair 152 Paterson Hall pthornton@alasu.edu 334-229-6986 B.I.S. Program Coordinator Mrs. Carolyn Davis, 152 Paterson Hall 334-229-7620 cdavis@alasu.edu

WEB Dubois Honors Program Dr. Cynthia Harris, Director 115 Paterson Hall 334-604-8021 cashley@alasu.edu Secretary: Ms. Denise Roy 115 Paterson Hall 334-604-8047 ddroy@alasu.edu

Advancement Studies Dr. Parichart Thornton (see above)

Writing Center: 143 Paterson Hall 334-604-9114 writingctr@alasu.edu

AS Secretary: Mrs. Brenda Nash 147 Paterson Hall 334-229-4328 bnash@alasu.edu

Geography Lab: 122B Paterson Hall 334-604-9017 hidgeoctr@alasu.edu

Reading Lab: 223 Paterson Hall 334-229-6710 readingctr@alasu.edu Complied by Ms. Croskery & Dr. Alagan

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UC - Beacon

Beacon University College Alabama State University We are glad to distribute the 1st (Fall 2020) edition of the UC digital newsletter, the “Beacon.” We welcome submissions regarding publications, student achievements, conference presentations, and creative works, which we include in the 2nd (Fall 2021) edition. Please send your information to ralagan@alalsu.edu or call: 334-604-9014

Tell Us Your UC STORIES We will publish it in the next Beacon

Thank you!

We are grateful to all who have contributed to the Fall 2020 edition: Dean Evelyn Hodge PhD Dr. Parichart Thornton Dr. Ram Alagan Dr. Elisha Dung Dr. Seela Aladuwaka

Dr. Robert White Dr. Cynthia Harris Ms. Linda Humphrey Dr. Paul Erhunmwunsee Ms. Margie Thomas

Ms. Carolyn Davis Ms. Doris Youngblood Dr. Felicia Taylor Ms. Jamicia Croskery Ms. Felicia Sharpe Dr. Daniel McGowin

The Beacon Newsletter Designed and Compiled by: Dr. Ram Alagan Photo Sources: Ram Alagan, Cynthia Harris, Felicia Sharpe, Lindal Humphrey, Penn State.Edu, Carolyn Davis, Leavie King, Denise Roy, Christian Starkey , and ASU Facebook, zinnedproject.org, History.com, Britannica.com, Sondra Obas, Cynthia Steele

UC Persists with Scholarly Journey to Success

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