Houston Defender: October 18, 2018

H.S. SPORTS

WESTSIDE VOLLEYBALL COACH ANDRE KING BRINGS INTENSITY P11

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Volume 87 | Number 51

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NATIONAL STACEY ABRAMS blasts GOP voter suppression efforts in GA

P4 FEATURE JAMES DOUGLAS heads NAACP Houston 100-year celebration

HISD Interim Superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan

P9 SPORTS D’ERIQ KING leads UH to victory

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TOP EVENTS

Pastor DZ Cofield, Yolanda Adams, and V. Michael McKay at Gospel Legends/Defender Ministers of Music Extraordinaire event.

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Amandla Stenberg stuns in “T.H.U.G”

The “Hunger Games” actress stars in “The Hate U Give,” a powerful, relevant, earnest and sometimes absolutely heartbreaking instant time capsule — a fictional but wholly authentic slice of American life.

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Money matters to college students and parents, and the Defender looks at finances and other higher education issues in the EDU special edition. See the college grads getting big money jobs.

Check out things to know about student loans.

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Understanding ballot PROPOSITIONS Defender News Services

Did gathering sway decision?

HISD reverses interim superintendent switch

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

The HISD Board announced that Dr. Grenita Lathan will remain as interim superintendent of the district, the largest in Texas. The reversal of the Oct. 11 school board 5-4 vote to remove Lathan may have been spurred on by the showing of disgruntled Houstonians at a weekend press conference convened by the Protect Our Progress Coalition.

“We want that deciHISD Board President Rhonda Skillern-Jones addressed the interim superintendent controversy at sion reversed; we want that Emancipation Park and was joined by other community leaders. (Photo by Aswad Walker) unfairness stopped; we want start on Monday,” added Skillern-Jones. our progress to continue,” said The issue of potentially replacing Lathan was not publicly HISD Board President Rhonda Skillern-Jones during the gathering posted or part of the board’s Oct. 11 agenda – a violation of at Emancipation Park. state law.

“The upper trajectory of our children today in this district “It’s pretty clear that certain members of the HISD board after all the turmoil we’ve been through does not deserve to be colluded illegally,” said State Sen. Borris Miles. “The legisladisrupted by someone who has to come in and start all over.” tive intent of the Open Meetings Act was written to prevent According to Skillern-Jones, her motion made last month situations like this.” to extend Lathan’s one-year contract while the board continued Miles said the Harris County legislative delegation would its search for a permanent superintendent was voted down bepursue legal action.

However, during a later press conference cause one board member charged there was a lack of transparat HISD headquarters, trustees announced the reversal of their ency and community input. vote to appoint Saavedra to the position, while trustee Diana “Then, 30 days later, [the motion to replace Lathan with Davila apologized to the HISD community for the board’s Dr. Abelardo Saavedra] is introduced by the same person, and months-long dysfunction. it passed. And that person went on to tell us that the new superAdditionally, Trustee Jolanda Jones outlined steps the intendent had already spoken to her. They had already worked board would take to function properly moving forward. out terms and conditions of the contract, and that he was to

On Tuesday, Nov. 6, Houstonians will have the opportunity to vote on two city charter referendums, Propositions A and B. Here is a glimpse at both.

N A osition A will continue PROPOitySofITHIO ouston’s Prop rogram for

The C s-you-go p on, the pay-a age and streets. st ou H ld ui eb R rain d rebuilding d at storm improving an orters of Prop A argue th ars ore than 80 ye FOR – Supp ouston are m to pay for H of ts ar p e drains in som having a dedicated fund onians ve st old. They belie et upgrades will help Hou s. re d st oo d fl an re e futu drainag d families from y the city has an es m ho ct sa prote tics of Prop A letely AGAINST - Cri of drainage fees on comp , nt perce dewalks only spent 43 ain subdivisions’ streets, si we have rt that refurbishing ce water drains. They argue Rebuild m e or th st d by an e s on curb work d e” ag in ra ally reduce “d tu e ac ything to no idea if th an e on d s ha ram Houston prog . g in flood

PROPOSITION B

Proposition B would require the city to start paying its firefighters the same as its police officers, creating “parity pay” with a 29 percent raise (that increas es to 32 percent the following year).

FOR – Houston is currently the larg est city in the United States in which firefighters and poli ce do not have pay parity.

Supporters point to the Fiscal Yea r 2016 budget on the city’s website. It’s the last budget that incl udes a breakdown for the fire department’s payroll. The firefight ers haven’t had a raise since.

AGAINST – Critics argue that pay hike would cost the City $98 million in the first year and require a decrease in some services to pay for it. They also say firefighters work nine 24-hour shifts each month, can sleep during their shifts and have the rest of the month off. They have a pen sion plan that is more generous than the police officers’ plan and some have lucrative second jobs.

Early voting begins Oct. 22

localbriefs DARIAN WARD, THE FORMER PRESS SECRETARY for Mayor Sylvester Turner, has admitted her guilt to a charge of abuse of official capacity for pushing her personal production company business on city time. Ward agreed to a one-year pre-trial diversion contract after being charged with the Class A misdemeanor. Ward must not commit any new crimes, perform 30 hours of community service and pay a $500 fine. If Ward completes the agreement, the charge is dismissed and she could apply to have the matter expunged. If she violates the agreement, she faces renewed prosecution for the crime, which carries a penalty

of up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine……..

THE STAR OF HOPE homeless shelter is in need of additional donations to help stock up for colder weather yet to come. They need blankets, coats, hats, scarves and gloves. Star of Hope vans traveled around town recently handing out blankets to some of the homeless. Many of the homeless had ventured over to the Men’s Center to seek shelter from the heavy downpours and nearly 40-degree temperature drop overnight. In addition to cold weather clothing items, Star of Hope spokesman Scott Arthur said the shelter is also in desperate need of water. For more

information on how you can help donate, visit www.sohmission.com........ HOMEOWNERS IN HISD WILL NOT SEE an increase in property tax rates for the 2018-2019 school year under a proposal being considered by the district’s Board of Education. HISD will maintain the current tax rate of $1.2067 per $100 of taxable property value for the third year in a row. The tax rate includes two parts: $1.04 dedicated to funding general maintenance and operations and $0.1667 earmarked for debt service. Trustees adopted a $2 billion budget for the 2018-2019 school year last June based on this tax rate.

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Spring superintendent receives ‘Distinguished Administrator’ honor initiative, which takes advantage of the many academic and developIn a special announcement mental benefits associduring the October meeting ated with arts education of the Spring ISD Board of by incorporating the arts Trustees, Superintendent Dr. and arts-related topics Rodney E. Watson learned into core subject areas. that he had been selected by Watson himself, who the Texas Music Educators studied music education Association to receive the – along with psychology designation of TMEA Distin– as an undergraduate guished Administrator. in college, said that he’s “The TMEA Executive honored by the award, Board created this designation and feels energized by to honor upper-level school the continued support of administrators who have the Spring community on been instrumental in preservbehalf of the arts. ing quality music education “The arts and arts programs on their campuses Dr. Rodney E. Watson education have always and in their districts,” wrote been close to my heart,” Watson said, “and TMEA Executive Director Robert Floyd in Spring ISD is a district where the performa letter announcing the recognition. ing and visual arts have long been part of The surprise announcement was made the fabric of campus life. We take a lot of

by Spring ISD Director of Performing and pride in that as a district, and I’m happy Visual Arts Dr. Joe Clark, who spoke of that we’ve been able to support not just the the strong collaborative spirit driving arts status quo, but new ideas and new initiaeducation in Spring ISD. He also thanked tives to strengthen what we offer to our the superintendent for his support of the students.” district’s recently launched arts integration Defender News Services

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Salvation Army to host huge fundraising event Defender News Service

The Salvation Army of Greater Houston, with special guest Wanda Durant (mother of NBA player Kevin Durant) will host its 22nd annual luncheon on Wednesday, Nov. 14, 2018, at 11:30 a.m., at the River Oaks Country Club. The luncheon, chaired by Nathalie and Charles Roff, will honor Charles’s parents Ann and J. Hugh Roff, Jr. for their years of service to and philanthropic support of Salvation Army Houston.

The event is the organization’s single largest fundraising event of the year and serves as its official kickoff of the holiday season. Funds raised support Salvation Army Houston’s mission to serve those in need without discrimination across a variety of specialized programs, services and shelters.

An entrepreneur, CEO and philanthropist Wanda Durant aims to inspire disenfranchised communities to move beyond their immediate circumstances. She works closely with a number of nonprofits, including The Boys & Girls Clubs of America, an organization that the Salvation Army Houston partners with at five of its Corps Community Centers in the Greater Houston Area.

2018 Annual Luncheon

Wednesday, Nov. 14, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

River Oaks Country Club, 1600 River Oaks visit www.salvationarmyhouston.org

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 18 | 2018

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Abrams charges opponent with trying to suppress votes Defender News Services

Stacey Abrams, the African-American Democrat running to be Georgia’s next governor, said that the state’s “exact match” registration verification process – one that is overseen by her Republican opponent – is suppressing the vote.

“We have known since 2016 that the exact-match system has a disproportionate effect on people of color and on women,” Abrams said.

Under the system, 53,000 voter registrations have been put on hold because the voter Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams (left), a Democrat, says her Republican applications did not precisely opponent Brian Kemp is targeting minority and women voters. match information on file with Abrams charged that voters will have to go the Georgia Department of through unnecessary hurdles on election day to prove they Driver Services or the Social Security Administration. can vote, and poll workers will be using a subjective stanAn Associated Press review of the registrations on dard to verify their eligibility. hold at Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp’s office The system, she said, is “designed to scare people out found nearly 70 percent of the applicants are Black. of voting” and make it harder to vote for those who are Kemp is Abrams’ Republican opponent in the gubernato“willing to push through.” rial race.

“He’s eroding the public trust in the system because “It’s part of a pattern of behavior where [Kemp] tries 53,000 people have been told, ‘You may be able to vote, you to tilt the playing field in his favor or in the favor of his may not,’” she said. party,” she said.

Despite such criticism, Abrams said she believed the Kemp has denied the charges. “Kemp is fighting to November election would be fair. protect the integrity of our elections and ensure that only “My organization, working with the Democratic Party, legal citizens cast a ballot,” said his campaign spokesman we’ve put together the largest voter protection effort in the Ryan Mahoney. state’s history,” she said.

“And we have national organizaVoters will be allowed to cast ballots if they show tions that are also paying attention.

I think we can make photo ID that substantially matches the registration apthis work.” plication.

A WHITE ST. LOUIS WOMAN SEEN IN a viral video attempting to block her Black neighbor from entering the downtown apartment building where they both reside has been fired from her job. Tribeca Luxury Apartments-St. Louis said it was “disturbed” by the interaction in the video and fired the woman, who worked as a property manager.

D’Arreion Toles said he was returning home when the woman confronted him, then blocked him from getting to his fourth floor loft. Video of the incident, which now has nearly 5 million views, shows the unnamed woman repeatedly demanding to know which apartment Toles lives in. She followed him to his door and used the key fob to enter his unit……..A WHITE WOMAN LABELED “CORNERSTORE CAROLINE” on social media apologized after video of her appearing to call New York police to say a 9-year-old Black boy groped her was posted online. Surveillance video showed the child’s backpack brushing up against her backside – his hands in plain sight –as she leaned over a Brooklyn deli counter. Teresa Klein was widely ridiculed on social media after video of her calling the police to report the boy had “sexually assaulted” her. The boy, wearing an oversized blue backpack, and a girl who appears younger than he is burst into tears. Klein told reporters that she has been threatened since the appearance of the video on Facebook, which has been viewed 5.6 million times……..SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS for more than 67 million Americans will increase 2.8 percent in 2019. The cost-of-living adjustment will begin in January 2019. Beneficiaries are normally notified by mail in early December about their new amount. Among AfricanAmericans receiving the benefits, 30 percent of elderly married couples and 55 percent of unmarried elderly persons rely on Social Security for 90 percent or more of their income.

Millions spent to guard Confederate cemeteries Defender News Services

After last year’s deadly clash between white nationalists and counter-protesters in Charlottesville, Va., the federal government quietly spent millions of dollars to hire private security guards to stand watch over at least eight Confederate cemeteries, documents from the Department of Veterans Affairs show.

The security effort, which runs around the clock at all but one of those V.A.-operated cemeteries, was aimed at preventing the kind of damage that befell Confederate memorials across the U.S. in the aftermath of the Charlottesville violence.

None of the guarded cemeteries has been van-

dalized since the security was put in place. Records obtained by the Associated Press through the Freedom of Information Act show that the V.A. has spent nearly $3 million on the cemetery security since August 2017. Another $1.6 million is budgeted for fiscal 2019 to pay for security at all Confederate monuments.

The agency has not determined when the security will cease.

Private security was needed “to ensure the safety of staff, property and visitors paying respect to those interred,” said Jessica Schiefer, spokeswoman for the VA’s National Cemetery Administration. She said the agency “will continue to monitor and assess the need for enhanced security going forward.”

VOLUME 87 • NUMBER 51 OCTOBER 18, 2018 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Max Edison Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

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OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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‘The Hate U Give’ reflects realities Defender News Service

The phrase “The Hate U Give Little Infants F—s Everybody” gave the hip hop group T-H-U-G-L-I-F-E its name. The sentiment from the late Tupac Shakur meant that the kids you ignore or deride turn into young people who will be a stone in your shoe.

Writer Angie Thomas used that mantra as a title for her bestselling book “The Hate U Give,” which is inspired by the tragic shooting of Oscar Grant by a transit police officer in 2009 in Oakland, Calif.

In the movie “The Hate U Give,” Starr Carter (Amandla Stenberg, “Hunger Games”) has a lot on her shoulders for a 16-year-old. She lives in a Black working class-neighborhood

with childhood friend Khalil (Algee Smith). A White cop pulls them over and questions them. Starr immediately puts her hands on the dashboard. Khalil is reluctant. When asked to step outside the vehicle, Khalil seems blasé.

There is a deadly incident. Is it a mistake? Standard police procedure? Manslaughter? Khalil’s sudden death changes Starr’s life and destiny. Will she remain silent? Become a witness? Go public?

“The Hate U Give” is a powerful, relevant, earnest and sometimes absolutely heartbreaking instant time capsule — a fictional but wholly authentic slice of American life in the 2010s.

Directed by George Tillman Jr. (“Soul Food,” “Notorious”) with a screenplay by Audrey Wells (who passed away just last week), “The Hate U Give” is indeed a message movie.

Starr’s white classmates at Williamson Prep stage a walkout and wield “Black Lives Matter” signs, but they seem more enthused about having an excuse to get out Amandla Stenberg stars as a teen who loses a friend to a tragedy in “The Hate U Give.” | 20th of school than troubled by the tragedy. When Starr’s Century Fox boyfriend says he doesn’t see color when he looks at and is the daughter of Maverick, an ex-convict (Russell her, she tells him if he doesn’t see her race, he’s not seeHornsby, “Fences”) who has turned his life around and ing her at all. owns a local grocery store.

In the meantime, an activist attorney (Issa Rae) is urging Her dad’s past colors his family’s Starr to come forward and testify against the officer, even as existence every day. He instills in King (Anthony Mackie), the biggest drug dealer in his children basic survival skills for Starr’s neighborhood, threatens violent retribution dealing with the police: “Keep your for Starr and her family if she says too much about what hands where they can see them.” He she knows. gives them self-esteem lessons, as well: Director Tillman has an excellent touch for the quietly “Know your rights. Know your worth.” impactful scenes with Starr and her family, as well as the news To give his kids better opportunities, footage-style depictions of marches and protests that go sideMaverick and his wife Lisa (Regina Hall) ways, with tear gas flying in the air and cops pinning down send Starr and her brothers Seven (Lamar protesters — as well as some protesters using the moment as Johnson) and Sekani (TJ Wright) to a mostly an excuse to set cars on fire and destroy local businesses.

White prep school far from their inner-city Yet the film never loses sight of the girl who only wants home. Living her life in two places is an to go to school, spend time with her family and friends, have adjustment; Starr acclimates well. Then one a boyfriend, prepare for college and just be sixteen — but night her worlds are both torn apart and shoved doesn’t have the option and probably never had that option together. from the moment she was born.

After a late party in the hood, she’s riding in a car “The Hate U Give” is currently in theaters.

what’sup JAY-Z and BEYONCE’ are no longer friends with the KANYE WEST and KIM KARDASHIAN WEST, according to RadarOnline.com. The superstar icon, 37, and her rap mogul hubby, 48, have longed been politically active but they are reportedly “sick” of West’s political antics and “bull***t” theatrics with Donald Trump, forcing the Carters to make the decision to no longer associate with the Wests. Kardashian, 37, and West, 41, have made desperate attempts over the years to befriend Jay-Z and Beyoncé. But after Kardashian’s most recent visit to the White House to discuss prison reform, followed by her troubled hubby’s recent appearance on “SNL”, the source told RadarOnline that the friendship is irrevocably broken…..

At a rally in Mississippi, Trump played PRINCE’S iconic 1984 song “Purple Rain.”

Prince’s estate was not here for it. While Prince was certainly a political artist, often talking about race, poverty and faith in his music, he was not associated with a

particular political party. Moreover, as a Jehovah’s Witness, he was also open about never voting. Jehovah’s Witness, he was also open about never voting….Rapper 50 CENT is making power moves and secured a lucrative deal to bring new scripted and unscripted projects exclusively to the Starz network through his G-Unit Film & Television, Inc. The actor and executive producer of the hit Starz series Power, signed a four-year deal worth an estimated $150 million. The deal ranks “among the most significant deals to date for an executive producer in premium television.”…

Duchess MEGHAN MARKLE and PRINCE HARRY are expecting their first child. Kensington Palace announced the news on Twitter. Markle is about 12 weeks pregnant, according to the palace, and is due in the spring. Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, is excited about the news and looking forward to welcoming her first grandchild, according to a conference call with palace officials. Ragland

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Ensemble hosts master classes led by women

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Defender News Services

he Ensemble Theatre presents a special project series titled “Celebrating the Creative Journey,” which will include its BOLD Women’s Leadership Network Master Classes facilitated by a roster of all-female arts industry leaders.

Adult sessions (men and women) will be held Saturday, Oct. 27, from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and teen sessions (girls ages 13-19) will be held Saturday, Nov. 10, from noon-3 p.m. at the Ensemble, 3535 Main St. “We are looking forward to our Eileen Morris Ella Joyce upcoming master classes along with other projects planned and managed an artist and a leader.” by artistic associate Rachel Hemphill Dickson,” Classes will be facilitated by the following said Eileen Morris, Ensemble artistic direcwomen who, combined, have over 1000-plus protor. “She was our top candidate among several ductions to their credit. Those classes include: competitive applicants to work with us under the Lighting – Kris Phelps is entering her 12th BOLD Women’s Leadership Network grant.” season with the Ensemble, where she has received “I am excited to work with the Ensemble five Giorgee Awards and several nominations for Theatre, and I’m both honored and humbled best lighting design of the season. to have earned this selection,” said Dickson, Stage management – Rachel R. Bush is an an educator, actress, director, playwright and assistant professor at the University of Houston founder of Driven Theatre company. “This is an School of Theater & Dance, where she is program opportunity for me to further hone my skills as head for the BFA in Stage Management.

Acting – Ella Joyce is an actress and author best known for her television role of Eleanor on TV’s Black family sitcom “Roc.” She has worked extensively in regional theater.

Directing – Shirley Jo Finney, an alumnus of the American Film Institute’s Director Workshop for Women with an MFA degree from UCLA, is an awardwinning international director of theater, television and film, as well as an accomplished actress.

Set – Janelle Flanagan has been engaged by the Ensemble for over 20 years and works at numerous theaters throughout Houston, including Houston Grand Opera.

Teen facilitator – Toya Lillard is a theater director, artist, activist and educator. A native Houstonian from an artistic family, she graduated from Houston’s High School for Performing and Visual Arts and attended Vassar College.

Earlier this year, Morris was selected as one of five female artistic leaders in the nation awarded part of a $1.25 million gift from the Pussycat Foundation and Northern Stage in support of women artistic directors in professional theaters across the U.S. For more information call 713-520-0055 or visit www.ensemblehouston.com.

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OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

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College grads getting

BIG MONEY JOBS

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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

or college or college-bound students, one of the biggest concerns is landing a job after graduation and finding one that pays well. One way to address that concern is to choose a career that is in demand and lucrative.

Facts and figures show that it pays to pursue a job that is in demand. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, the average starting salary for class of 2018 graduates stands at $50,004.

That salary, however, is $23,000 a year less than the top-paying major category – computer and information sciences – which pays an average salary of $73,768 for 2018 graduates. Computer and IT occupations are projected to grow faster than average because of the emphasis on cloud computing, the collection and storage of big data and information security.

Many healthcare careers are also lucrative and in demand as the aging population leads to a greater need for healthcare services.

Here are five big-money jobs for college grads that are hard to fill, along with median salaries and requirements: Nurse practitioners $107,460 – Registered nurses who perform many of the same functions as licensed physicians. Requires Master of Science in Nursing or Doctor of Nursing Practice, national certification and state licensure.

Application software developers $100,080 – Creative minds behind computer programs. Some de-

Information security analysts $92,600 – Plan and carry out security measures to protect organizations’ computer networks and systems. Requires bachelor’s degree in computer-related field. velop applications and others develop underlying systems that run devices or control networks. Usually requires bachelor’s degree in computer science.

Medical & health services managers $96,540 – Also called healthcare executives or administrators. Manage hospitals, medical practices, nursing homes, clinical areas or departments. Requires minimum of bachelor’s degree and extensive experience in related position.

Financial advisors $90,530 – Provide advice on investments, insurance, mortgages, college savings, estate planning, taxes and retirement. Requires bachelor’s degree. A specific course of study is not usually required, but degree in finance, economics, accounting, business, math or law is good preparation. A master’s degree and certification can improve chances for advancement.

Sources: CareerCast.com, U.S. Department of Labor

Business careers booming While many high-tech jobs continue to be lucrative and in demand, business careers are also booming.

In its 2018 job outlook survey, the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that the majority of the 10 top majors in demand by employers at the bachelor’s degree level fall in the business category, including finance, accounting, business administration/management, marketing, logistics/supply chain and sales.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, business and financial operations occupations are projected to grow faster than the average due to globalization, a growing economy, a complex tax and regulatory environment and increasing usage of data and market research.

The median annual wage for business and financial occupations was $67,710 in 2017, higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $37,690.

To shed some light on top business careers, the Defender spoke with Jamie Belinne, assistant dean for career services at the C.T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston.

Belinne said the top-paying careers come down to two basic skill sets – highly technical skills and highly interpersonal skills “because those are the two things we can’t outsource or automate yet.

“Along those lines, we have people that are going into the technical side of business analysis and people in app development who are doing very well,” she said. “We have people in sales who are doing extremely well. If you’re willing to take that variable compensation and work really hard the sky’s the limit for your earning potential.”

Belinne said that financial advising can also be profitable.

“It is one of those fields where you can either make a lot of money or no money – it depends on how good you are.

There’s a desperate need for more people who are good at it right now. Much like sales, you need to work really hard, and the people who work hard perform well.”

Belinne said some of the highest paying jobs are in business analyst roles. “Those students can make up to $80,000 right out of school,” she said. “That’s not the average but it goes that high for talented students. It involves technical skills as well as communications skills so people who have that combination of both do extremely well.”

She added that there’s also a need for accountants.

According to the Labor Department, employment of accountants and auditors will continue to grow, and is closely tied to the health of the overall economy. The annual median wage for accountants is $69,350.

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EDU SPECIAL

Student mental health challenges cause for concern Defender News Services

Mental illness is a serious problem on colleges campuses, as students struggle with such issues as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder and eating disorders.

Depression is one of the main reasons why students drop out of school, and if left untreated, could lead to other symptoms or even suicide.

The problem can be especially troubling for students of color with a pre-existing mental illness, as some colleges and universities have become settings of discrimination, racial profiling and alienation, worsening students’ conditions.

Mental illness among college students isn’t limited to the United States. A recent report from the American Psychological Association found that more than onethird of first-year university students in eight industrialized countries around the globe reported symptoms consistent with a diagnosable mental health disorder.

The study looked at 14,000 students from 19 colleges in eight countries – the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Germany, Mexico, Northern Ireland, South Africa and Spain. Researchers found that 35 percent of respondents reported symptoms consistent with at least one mental health issue. The most common disorders were depression and anxiety.

“While effective care is important, the number of students who need treatment for these disorders

far exceeds the resources of most counseling centers, resulting in a substantial unmet need for mental health treatment among college students,” said lead author Randy P. Auerbach, PhD, of Columbia University.

“Considering that students are a key population for determining the economic success of a country,

colleges must take a greater urgency in addressing this issue.”

Here are some tips on coping with mental illness in college from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization.

• Monitor symptoms and get help if needed.

A short, daily record of key symptoms such as mood and anxiety levels can help you notice if symptoms

are getting worse. If your symptoms steadily worsen consult a doctor or therapist on or off campus.

• Maintain and build support systems. Connections with friends and family at home provide much needed stability but college also provides opportunities to make new friends and create new support systems. If you’re homesick, call home, but also reach out to the people around you. They may be missing home, too, and will welcome a new friend.

• Maintain healthy habits. Exercising, eating a balanced diet and getting between seven and nine hours of sleep will give you more energy, help you focus better, and keep you emotionally resilient.

• Avoid drugs and alcohol. Marijuana, alcohol and other drugs are poor ways to cope with stress. Think about social activities you enjoy that don’t involve drugs and alcohol and seek out these activities on campus.

• Reduce academic stress. Using academic supports such as study groups, tutors and the campus writing center can make classwork easier and give you encouragement from others.

Your college may offer advice on study skills and time management.

• Learn more about mental illness. College sometimes offer students support groups for mental illness and stress management. College is also a great opportunity to learn more about the brain by taking classes in psychology. Knowledge increases your sense of power over your illness.

Message from the Publisher

Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Attending college is a life-changing experience. We make new friends, find new freedoms, pursue careers and prepare to take on the world. Seeking a higher education is important for another reason – the more you learn, the more you earn.

According to the College Board, the typical bachelor’s degree recipient can expect to earn about 66 percent more during a 40-year working life than the typical high school graduate earns over the same period.

The U.S. Department of Labor tells us that median weekly earnings in 2017 for those with the highest levels of educational attainment – doctoral and professional degrees – were more than triple those with the lowest level, less than a high school diploma.

The Defender is pleased to once again present its annual EDU special edition and explore major educational issues impacting our

readers.

We begin with a look at college grads getting big-money jobs, along with the growth of careers in for business majors. Our article on mental illness shows the seriousness of the topic and ways students impacted by it can learn to cope. We also look at what students should know about loans before graduation. Our centerfold offers words of wisdom on attending college in general and advice on adjusting to college life.

In addition, we would like to thank our partners – Texas Southern University, the University of Houston, University of Houston Downtown, University of Texas and Wells Fargo – for their support.

Earning a college degree remains one of the keys to success, and its value is important long after time spent on campus ends.

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OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

EDU SPECIAL

Things to know about

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student loans

By SHANELL FOSTER

ccording to empirical studies, anecdotal data, group chats, and social media, college graduates over 25 years old overwhelmingly rank their biggest financial burden as student loan debt.

When graduates are seeking to start a career, raise a family, buy a home, launch a business and/or save for retirement, debt can leave them feeling overwhelmed, burdened and out of options.

In retrospect, many wish they handled funding their education differently. Here are a few imperative things to know about student loans before graduating.

PROACTIVE FINANCIAL PLANNING

Although student loans should be a last resort and avoided if possible, they are an option to assist students who are pursuing a college degree. Proactive planning puts you in a position to incur minimal, if any, student loan debt.

Save early: Preparation is key. Start saving for college as soon as possible. Talk to a financial professional about various college savings plans.

Scholarships: Apply for scholarships early and often. There are many research engines such as Fastweb.com, local businesses, and places of worship to inquire about institutional funding from the college you plan to attend. Also, it’s important to know your deadlines like the back of your hand. Create a calendar to Dual credit: Leverage free or reducedcost dual credit courses in high school. Through partnerships with local school districts, Houston Community College (HCC) provides high school students the opportunity to earn college credit and high school credit through concurrent enrollment with HCC while still in high school.

Community college: Consider community colleges to offset costs. The tuition is usually thousands of dollars cheaper than tuition for private and public four-year institutions.

RESPONSIBLE BORROWING

Far too often, students accept these loans without understanding the full impact of their decision.

Here are some of my reflective considerations.

Apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early: Need-based money is given out on a first-come, first-serve basis, so procrastinating on your FAFSA application will only lead to missed opportunities.

Understand the different types of loans: It’s highly important to understand the

difference between subsidized and unsubsidized loans.

Take advantage of subsidized loans that don’t start growing interest until you enter repayment status. Unsubsidized loans begin growing interest while you’re still in school.

Earning potential: Consider the average salary for your career/industry choice compared to your outstanding loan debt and monthly payments. Sizable debt requires sizable income to be able to make the payments.

Living off of loans: Leveraging loans as a main source of income while you’re in school can cause you to accrue student loan debt a lot quicker. Also, spending loan refunds on non-essential items takes away from available funds to help with school and living expenses.

LOAN REPAYMENT OPTIONS

Many think their best option is to ignore it, but ignoring your student loan debt puts you into default. This is why it is so important to know your repayment options. Here are resources to help you get a repayment action plan together.

My federal student aid: Borrowers

can log in at www.studentaid.gov to view their federal student loan information, including loan balances, interest rates, and loan servicer contact information.

Repayment calculator: Borrowers can use the estimator tool at www.StudentAid. gov/repayment-estimator to compare different monthly payment options based on their loan debt, income, and family size.

Repayment basics: By visiting www. studentAid.gov/repay, borrowers can learn how to make payments on their loans, find the right repayment plan, figure out what to do if they can’t afford their payments, and see what circumstances might result in a loan being forgiven, canceled, or discharged.

Financial coaches: Many institutions have financial coaches or financial aid staff who can help you get on track by connecting you with resources to create an action plan to budget, monitor spending habits, and save money.

Shanell Foster is a financial coach at Houston Community College. To learn more about repayment options and financial coaches visit www.hccs.edu/studentdebt

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EDU SPECIAL

TSU receives $5.1 million grant for cancer research Students, faculty gain dynamic research opportunities

By TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY

T

exas Southern University scholars will help in the fight against cancer via a recently announced $5.1 million academic research grant from the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT).

The five-year grant is a Core Facility Support award, which makes cutting-edge technology available for capital investment and technical expertise. It is TSU’s first-ever CPRIT award, and it is one of the largest publicly-funded grants the university has received in TSU provides advanced academic and research programs to ethnically diverse student its 91-year history. populations and positively impacts minority TSU received one health research in Houston and beyond. of 64 new research, both professors in the Department of product development, and Pharmaceutical and Environmental Health prevention grants from Sciences at TSU and co-lead investigators CPRIT this quarter, which for the grant, emphasized that it will benefit has now awarded in total TSU students – as well as society – in two $2.15 billion of the $3 important ways. billion approved by Texas “First, we will be able to expand our voters in 2007 to fight current pharmaceutical program to be able cancer. to accommodate many additional studies “This award is Multi-million dollar grants like the CPRIT “Core Facility Support” award give Texas Southern University scholars and ultimately move more Texas cancer affirmation of our unique learning experiences in the ongoing fight against cancer. investigators’ discoveries closer to clinical commitment to bring worldtrials,” said Dr. Xie. “Second, it will allow it means for TSU,” said Dr. Dong Liang, chair and class academic quality and TSU to provide training to the next generation of professor of the Department of Pharmaceutical and research opportunities to Texas Southern University,” cancer investigators in developmental PK/PD, which Environmental Health Sciences at TSU and principal said Dr. Austin A. Lane, president of TSU. “Students is how the body handles a potential drug and how the investigator of the grant. and faculty in our College of Pharmacy & Health drug affects the body.”

“While there is no shortage of brilliant cancer Sciences will have access to leading-edge cancer “One of the goals at Texas Southern University is investigators throughout the Texas Medical Center, research through this grant. to stimulate innovative research through infrastructure and exciting cancer discoveries on a regular “As the largest Historically Black College and support,” added TSU Provost Dr. Kendall Harris. basis, academic resources for developing those University in Texas and the second largest in the “The CPRIT Core Facility grant provides the right discoveries into actual cancer treatments has been nation, this will significantly strengthen our mission opportunity for this.” largely unavailable except through contract research to provide advanced academic and research programs The first year of the grant will involve organizations, which are often inaccessible to many to ethnically diverse student populations, and to establishing and expanding the research equipment cancer researchers. positively impact minority health research in the and laboratory space while serving research projects, “With CPRIT funding, we will be able to Texas Medical Center and beyond.” and the remaining four years will fully engage the expand our current program to create the GCC The CPRIT grant will provide access to testing research and development services.

Center for Comprehensive Pharmacokinetics and and experimental support required in preclinical To date, CPRIT has awarded 1,317 grants Pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) and Formulation cancer drug development. It will be based at TSU totaling more than $2.15 billion. During the 85th (CCPF) project. This will allow us to accommodate in a state-of-the-art facility led by faculty with Texas Legislature, CPRIT’s Sunset Review date was many additional studies and ultimately move more expertise in cancer research. User groups will include extended by two years to 2023 to allow the agency to Texas cancer investigators’ discoveries closer to academic investigators and Texas start-up companies use fully all funds approved by Texas voters. clinical trials.” developing cancer therapies.

Visit us on line at www.tsu.edu Dr. Huan Xie and Dr. Omonike Olaleye, “We are very excited about this award and what

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Great universities are built by great communities.

That’s the mantra of University of Houston President Renu Khator.

In Houston, we are lucky. Students at UH have the opportunity to learn in the context of one of the nation’s most ethnically diverse cities. They also have the power to pay it forward by helping improve the quality of life in the community.

“I want to see the University add value to the neighborhood where it sits,” Khator said. “It’s my passion.”

UH’s Third Ward Initiative, launched in 2018, focuses on collaborating with the community to bolster educational outcomes, to create and strengthen businesses, to address medical disparities, and to celebrate the arts and culture of the historic neighborhood.

As part of the initiative, the UH College of Education has partnered with six campuses in the Houston Independent School District: Blackshear, Foster, Thompson and Hartsfield elementary schools; Cullen Middle; and Jack Yates High School UH students serve as reading and math tutors as well as mentors in the schools. The program allows teaching majors to gain real-world classroom experience while also making a difference in the lives of children.

OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 18 | 2018

Lessons

learned What they wish they knew before going to college

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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

ursuing a higher education opens doors to countless new experiences, some positive and some negative. College students also learn from their mistakes, from taking on too much debt to partying too hard to not studying enough.

Here, alumni and college students offer words of wisdom by answering the question, “What are some of the things you wish someone had told you before you went to college?”

“If there was one thing that I wish someone would have told me before I went to college, it was to be very attentive to my student loans. The financial aid office will show you all the money that you can get and how much you will have left over. As a freshman, to have $1,000 dollars refunded to my account was amazing, so I accepted the full loan amounts. However, what they don’t tell you is that the money is borrowed and the more loans you take the more your student debt increases. Start putting money aside while in school to pay off your student loans and only accept as much money as needed if you need student loans.

Try and look into grants and scholarships more aggressively so you won’t have to acquire a high college bill once you graduate.” – Thomas Cole “There are many things that a parent would probably remind their child of when going away from home for college life; however, that was not the case for me. My mother did not attend college; therefore, she had no experiences or expectations of what college life would be like. Perhaps, I thought, “I’m on my own!” There is one thing that turned out to be important that I wish someone had told me before I went to college: establish a relationship with your professors. As I look back on my experiences, this one factor would have made a difference in one particular situation.

During my last semester of college, I made a D

in Social Science. This was quite devastating for me. In high school, I made straight A’s and making a D was unacceptable. Several factors created a struggle to achieve a better grade in the class. In hindsight, if I had shared my concerns with my professor instead of avoiding him, the situation could have turned out differently.”

– Doretha Dennis “I went to college in my 30s so I was ready and focused on completing my degree within two years. I asked GOD for the wisdom, determination and time frame to get my degree. As requested my GOD was faithful and provided me everything I asked and more. I marched with my class debt-free. I give all the glory to GOD. If I gave anyone advice on entering college it would be, make sure you are prepared and ready for the discipline needed and put GOD first.”

– Francies Henry “I wish I had known that: (1) I should have taken advantage of as many scholarships as possible. (2) I should have made sure I knew what I wanted to go for! (3) I would owe so much without scholarships. (4) I wouldn’t work in my field.

(5) I can get a certification in a specific field and make a lot of money. (6) I needed to make only A’s and B’s to keep a good GPA.” – Kenetha Jones

“First, I wish that someone would have told me that y take professors, not classes. No matter how difficult a class the quality of your professor will determine your performa the classroom. Second, I wish someone told me that in ord be successful through school you need to associate with a t of individuals that are just as driven and determined to suc as you are. Last, one thing that I wish someone told before went to college is that these will be the best years of your l – Barry Taylor

“Before I left to go college, I wish someone had told m make academics my priority, instead of partying and social I also wish someone had told me to carefully choose the cr hung out with.” – Scottie Taylor

“I wish someone had told me to explore study aboard programs. Studying aboard is the perfect opportunity to l about another country and culture, while continuing your education. Tuition and room and board expenses often m the cost at your current institution. However, you will ne likely live on a stricter spending budget but the experienc worth the sacrifice. College is the perfect opportunity to b thinking “globally” and not just limit opportunities to th United States. Take advantage of learning more about o countries and cultures.” – Pamela Ulmer

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tips on adjusting to college life

Get help and support – Colle ge fosters independe don’t have to go it nce but you alone. College is fu ll of resources – prof counselors and advis es so ors. Help is availab rs, tutors, le but you have to as having problems ke k for it first. If you’r eping up with cour e se work or other re right person know. sponsibilities, let th e Manage your time – Establish ing a routine can re tainty about when duce uncerand how you can ba lance school work an time with other activ d study ities, including socia lizing, jobs and inter everything, such as nships. Write down when a paper or pr oject is due. Prioriti ments. Devote mor ze tasks and assigne time and energy to ward assignments impact on your cour that have the greate se work and grades st .

Use your sm artphone for good – With discip can turn your phon line, you e into one of your be prioritizing and savin st assets when it co mes to g time. Use it as a ca lendar and scheduler help you with due da . Set reminders to tes and other comm itments. Use apps th productivity and pr at can help with oject management.

Go to class – You might be tempt ed to skip classes, bu Attending class regu t don’t. larly will help you ge and get used to yo t a handle on your ur new schedule. coursework Learn how to study better – Set up a time devo to studying or hom ted only ework. Shut off your texts when your wo ph one and respond to rk is finished. Don’t calls or check social media Web (unless it’s for or email or surf the the work you are do ing) during this tim e.

Set attainab le goals – If you’r e having trouble wr paper for class beca iting a big use it seems like a daunting task, brea down and consider k the paper each section individu ally. You can handle chunks. any project in small Manage your money – For th e first time, you may own bank account have your and ATM card, shop for your own food an own bills. Keep your d pay your finances in order by developing a budg Always know how m et and sticking to it. uch money you have in your account.

Get a handle on your socia l life – College us a new social scene. ually means When you live on ca among friends. Lear mpus, you are cons n to balance having tantly fun with the other studying, staying he parts of your life – althy and sleeping.

It’ s okay to say no to a test the next mor going out if you ha ning. ve Make new fr iends – While it’ s important to hand life, it’s also importa le your social nt to make new frien that interests you, ds. Consider joining whether it’s a polit a group ical group, professio or fraternity or intra nal organization, so mural team. Attend rority campus events. Me cafeteria. et new people in th e Stay safe – Cr imes occurs on colle ge campuses, includ aggravated or sexu ing al assault, burglaries to contact campus and robberies. Know security. There’s sa how fety in numbers, so when going out, es use a buddy system pecially at night. Tr ust your instincts. If followed, get to a sa you think you are be fe environment as qu ing ickly as possible. W where alcohol is se hen attending a pa rved, if you are of leg rty al drinking age, have don’t accept drinks a designated driver, from strangers and never leave a drink thefts, keep an eye unattended. To prev on your purse, back ent pack, phone, laptop dorm or apartment, and tablet. In your keep doors and wind ows locked at all tim Sources: The College es.

Board, Defender Ne ws Services

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you s is, ance in der to team ccess eI life.”

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EDU SPECIAL

START HERE. Change the world. her an invitation to speak at a 2016 White House summit on university diversity and inclusion, and her business leadership led her to present at the International Seminar for onghorns have a long history of making an impact Engineering Leaders in Santiago, Chile. on the world. We take on challenges and seek out After a senior year spent studying abroad in Mexico unique learning experiences. We expect the best and interning part-time, Carter graduated and accepted a of ourselves and our university. Are you curious, position as a petroleum engineer for Newfield Exploration. ambitious, open-minded and ready to achieve your dreams?

“I never would have thought this was possible for me,” she Then you’re ready to be a Longhorn! says. She traces her success back to a calculus class she took during her freshman year. “I learned to relentlessly go Chase your challenge to office hours to ask questions. I realized that it made my Faith Carter isn’t a petroleum life easier and made my learning engineer because it’s easy. Quite process more effective. Now in the opposite, in fact. my position as a new engineer at “Petroleum engineering is Newfield, asking questions has Connect with our staff at one based on geology the way that been key. UT Austin, as well as the of the university’s admissions chemical engineering is based company I work for, is home to so centers around the state. Our on chemistry, or mechanical many great minds that you’d be counselors work with students, engineering on physics,” she doing yourself a disservice by not families and schools to provide explains. While her education at asking questions and learning as more information about UT Austin DeBakey High School in Houston much as possible.” and our admissions and financial included AP Chemistry and aid processes.

Physics, geology wasn’t part of admissions.utexas.edu/contact Excellence and inclusion the curriculum. She wondered if Carter’s experience she’d be prepared to apply to the illustrates both the academic and Cockrell School of Engineering’s community resources available top-ranked petroleum engineering to students of color at The University of Texas at major.

Austin. They include: “I thought ‘If I can do this, I can prove to myself that I • The Longhorn Center for Academic can do whatever I want.’”

Excellence, which houses academic success Five years later, Carter has proven that again and again – to and leadership programs herself, her family, her employers, and even international leaders • The Multicultural Engagement in higher education and engineering.

Center, which provides advising and Through hard work, the advice of a mentor – another support and houses student agencies Black woman in petroleum engineering – and the support of • More than 1,300 sponsored UT Austin’s chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers student organizations, including honors (NSBE), Carter made a successful transition into the Cockrell associations, clubs and fraternities/ School and quickly became a student leader in engineering both sororities on and off the Forty Acres.

UT Austin freshmen also participate in special She began her internships and field work the summer learning communities that help them make a successful after her freshman year, working as a field drilling intern for transition into college, connect with professors and meet Occidental Petroleum outside of Midland, Texas. “It was a great other students. learning experience,” she says. “I can go on anybody’s rig, Beyond the freshman year, students benefit from name each machine and help you troubleshoot anything going wrong.” The following summer, she landed a job as a drilling and ongoing support, no matter their needs. Each of the 13 undergraduate colleges and schools staffs its own career completion intern on a Chevron oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico center to provide students with major- and field-specific Offshore, Carter worked on a project to improve the advice, while the university’s Sanger Learning Center offers reliability of a tool used in drilling, saving time and hundreds one-on-one support to help students of thousands of dollars. reach their academic potential.

Carter’s other two internships, That potential flourishes in reservoir engineering at in The University of Texas LINN Energy and operations at Austin’s environment engineering for XTO of academic excellence.

Energy, gave her additional Competitively ranked programs, a world-class opportunities to build professional experience and put her faculty and outstanding facilities offer students degree to work. the opportunity to participate in a rich history of Back in Austin, Carter rose through the ranks of world-changing scholarship at a university named NSBE, from chair of the freshman board to chapter one of the top 30 in the world by president and then member of the regional board. Her work U.S. News & World Report. to advance LGBTQ inclusion in the organization netted

By THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN

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We’re here to help

admissions.utexas.edu

A curious and ambitious college student from Houston, Faith Carter built on her UT Austin education to pursue a career as a petroleum engineer.

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OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Do you think big?

Do you work hard and want to make a difference in the world?

Be a Longhorn.

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BE A LONGHORN

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 18 | 2018

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EDU SPECIAL

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UH’S SURE path to growing a viable & vibrant business hat does it take to transform a life and stimulate urban renewal? The formula is simple, says University of Houston professor Saleha Khumawala: education + perseverance x expert

guidance = success.

A microfinance whiz, Khumawala is the founding director of UH’s SURE™ program, which stands for Stimulating Urban Renewal through Entrepreneurship.

Launched in 2012, Khumawala, her students and community partners have guided more than 700 Houstonarea residents through the program.

“The entrepreneurs who come to us are those who are committed to their business idea or those that have an existing business and want to scale it but don’t know how,” Khumawala said.

Shannette Prince learned of SURE through the Cory Toatley, SURE program graduate, turned his desire for a familiar, oneEmancipation Economic Development Council of Houston. of-a kind scent into a lucrative business, Alchemy Candle Co. Prince is the proprietor of Africa On My Back, which produces and sells backpacks and accessories handmade by “What I can now do for my children is great, but to be able artisans in Ghana, West Africa. to help and impact another child’s life is what we are all about,” As a result of her time in SURE, Prince is turning a profit explained Prince. and contributing back to her community.

SURE provides entrepreneurs like Prince with free access

to a consultant and the knowledge they need to achieve their goals. Many participants are women, veterans and minorities from under-resourced communities such as Houston’s Third Ward.

“They come to us not just because of the education, but because they want to stay and start businesses and lift up the very neighborhood they grew up in,” Khumawala said. .

UH students work as consultants to the fledgling entrepreneurs. They help to deepen their knowledge in areas such as supply chain management and accounting and prepare for their pitch to organizations that may bankroll their business plans.

SURE is one of several UH programs supporting its Third Ward Initiative. UH leadership is committed to improving educational outcomes, developing and strengthening businesses, identifying and responding to the social and cultural issues affecting health, and celebrating the arts, culture and history of the neighborhood.

“The most important change has been the hope that is created when SURE graduates move forward with confidence,” said Elwyn C. Lee, UH vice president for Neighborhood and Strategic Initiatives. “They now know that UH is a partner they can count on.”

THE POWER TO LAUNCH It started as an idea.

You molded it into a business.

You’re our kind of achiever.

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OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

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EDU SPECIAL

Finish UHD Strong We understand that our students have busy lifestyles–jobs, families and more. To accommodate, UHD provides students with our future at the University of flexibility in scheduling courses. You’ll find a Houston-Downtown (UHD) means variety of class offerings on weekdays, evenings being part of a thriving university and weekends, as well as 18 fully online degree located in the heart of Downtown programs (15 undergraduate/three master’s). From Houston–one of the nation’s most culturally face-to-face instruction at the Downtown campus diverse metropolitan areas. or one of our satellite locations, UHD degrees UHD provides students life-changing and classes are offered completely online or a educational experiences with unparalleled combination of the two. opportunities to conduct research and We also promote learning that extends participate in community-centered learning, beyond the classroom. You’ll find options for coupled with flexible scheduling and a engaging in the community, participating in supportive and renowned faculty. faculty research in campus-based labs or out in As a comprehensive university that boasts the ommunity, and traveling the world via studya diverse student body offering 44 bachelor’s degrees and eight master’s degrees at a remarkable Located in the heart of Downtown Houston, UHD offers 44 bachelor’s degrees and abroad programs. Whether you want to participate eight master’s degrees. in any of the 20-plus club and intramural sports value, UHD has one of the lowest tuition rates in teams or any of our 90-plus student organizations, Texas.

15th largest in Texas. you’ll find something exciting and new to enhance your If you’re a student just out of high school, an UHD is committed to your success. With a facultycollege experience. adult returning to college to complete your degree or a to-student ratio of 20-to-1, faculty serve as mentors and The best way to learn more about UHD is with professional seeking a career change, UHD is right for help you shape your career goals, find the right degree a campus tour. Come see for yourself how UHD is you. With nearly 14,000 undergraduate students and program and build industry connections. We also have changing lives and building futures. Schedule your visit more than 46,000 alumni, UHD ranks as the second academic and career resources available to provide today at uhd.edu/visit or call 713-221-8522. largest public four-year university in Houston and the individualized attention.

By UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON-DOWNTOWN

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EDU SPECIAL

Tips to help students

safeguard personal, financial information

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By WELLS FARGO

ith school back in session, it’s easy for college students to get bogged down with their academic and social schedules. Wells Fargo advises students to add one more important activity to their to-do list: safeguarding their personal and financial information to reduce their risk of fraud and identify theft.

Research conducted by Javelin Strategy & Research (2010) revealed it takes people ages 18 to 24 nearly twice as many days to detect fraud compared to other age groups, making them fraud victims for longer periods of time. According to the study, young adults are less likely to monitor their bank accounts regularly and also are the least likely age group to take advantage of monitoring programs offered by financial institutions.

To help prevent fraud and identity theft, Wells Fargo recommends these tips for college students: • Don’t “over share” it: Social media is increasingly

popular, but it’s a good idea to keep personal information private. Fraudsters can use personal information such as birth date, mother’s maiden name and pet’s name to help gain access to an account.

• Sign up for It: Consider signing up for online and mobile banking. This will enable you to monitor your accounts regularly, when it’s convenient for you.

Research has shown electronic banking is the quickest way to detect account fraud. Many financial service providers offer online and mobile banking.

• Ask for it: Ask your financial services provider if it offers alerts, which can quickly detect unauthorized use of a bank account. Customized alerts can also be set up in advance.

• Lock it: Secure your laptop and desktop computer with a password, firewall and anti-virus software so no one else can access your files, and with a desktop cable lock so no one can remove it. For your mobile devices, be sure to use the keypad lock or phone lock function when they are not in use. These functions password-protect your device so that no one else can use it to view your information.

• Hide it: Never leave a wallet or purse in plain sight in a dorm room. The same goes for documents with personal or account information.

Moving your future forward You have exciting plans for the future. Now all you need is the financial guidance to put them into motion. Count on Wells Fargo to help you achieve your goals — whatever they may be.

Visit us and let’s have a conversation about what’s important to you.

wellsfargo.com

© 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. IHA-23487

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OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

7

State Rep. Ron Reynolds

Letter from jail: ‘I’m not bitter, I’m better’ ted Robert Valdez to contact accident cases within 30 days of an A Fort Bend Star reporter accident. wrote State Rep. Ron ReynI appealed my case olds, who is serving time in and lost. My attorney the Montgomery County Jail is currently working on a conviction for barraon the last two letry, or ambulance chasing, gal challenges to my requesting an interview. He case. Unfortunately, wrote her a letter in reply.

Montgomery County Here are excerpts: has a long history of racial discrimination Theresa, and disparities within I received your letter yestheir criminal justice terday. Thanks for reaching system. You can look out to me. at the case of Clarence I write this response to Brandley for one of the you with no computer to cases that made nationspell check, no Internet to al attention. research, nor Google.

To add insult to inFirst of all, I’m in great State Rep. Ron Reynolds jury, I was sentenced to spirits. My faith has never the maximum of one year in jail. Even though I been stronger. What the devil meant for evil, had NO criminal record and a strong record of God is using for good. public service…

To put things in perspective, I was convictMy faith in God is strong, but my faith in ed of misdemeanor – Solicitation of Professional Employment in Montgomery County. There is our criminal justice system has diminished…

I decided to surrender my appeal bond so absolutely no evidence that I knowingly permitDefender News Services

that I could serve my time and be out before the start of the 86th Legislative session. I get out on Jan. 4, 2019, and the session starts on Jan. 8, 2019.

I also chose this period because the holiday season is November and December and things slow down so that I wouldn’t miss much in my district.

My constituents have been extremely supportive of me during this difficult time. Many have written, posted on social media and called my family to express their support. I’m so blessed to have such a supportive family, friends and constituents…

The fate of my law license has not been determined and is still in jeopardy. Regardless of the outcome, I will continue to be a voice of the voiceless and for the least, last and lost.

I believe that “a setback is a setup for a comeback.”

I’m not bitter, I’m better. My outlook on life has never been greater. I’m blessed to have my health, strength, a sound mind and the most supportive wife, children and constituents…

I believe that God is not finished with me yet and the very best is yet to come!

Sincerely, Ron Reynolds

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 18 | 2018

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PVAMU voting issues resolved, barriers remain Texas Tribune

An intense political back-and-forth over the validity of voter registrations of thousands of students has been resolved, but community advocates say significant voting barriers remain for students at Prairie View A&M University.

Waller County, outside of Houston, quickly drew allegations of voter disenfranchisement after local Elections Administrator Christy Eason said recently that thousands of students who live on campus at Prairie View A&M had been incorrectly told to register to vote using an address in a different precinct and would need to fill out a change-of-address form before casting a ballot.

Democrats quickly challenged the additional paperwork requirement, saying it would suppress voter turnout at the university where about 80 percent of the students are African-American.

A day later, the controversy drew national attention after a staffer working for Mike Siegel, the Democrat challenging U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Austin, was arrested and charged with failure to identify, a Class C misdemeanor, while trying to deliver a letter to the Waller County Courthouse that challenged the new change-of-address form requirement for the students.

Texas Secretary of State Rolando Pablos announced that “no change of address form or statement of residence will be required prior to voting” for the students. He also said there will be election inspection officials at the polling location on campus to ensure “that no students will be impeded, hampered, or otherwise delayed in exercising their constitutional right to cast a ballot in the upcoming General Election.”

But Denise Mattox, president of the Waller County Democratic Club, said the real problem is that students do not have their own mailing addresses on campus.

The university does not have individual mailing addresses for students, so students have traditionally been instructed to register to vote using one of two shared campus addresses – 100 or 700 University Drive – per a 2016 agreement reached between the university and the county.

However, the 700 University Drive address is not

Brizjon Wilright (l.) and Kendric Jones stand outside the Willie A. Tempton Student Center at Prairie View A&M encouraging other students to vote. Photo: The Texas Tribune

in the same precinct as the campus. That placed a number of students’ voter registrations in question for the upcoming election.

Mattox said she faults the university for not “telling the students where they live” and county officials for “keeping everyone in confusion” and “basically suppressing the vote.”

On Facebook, Prairie View A&M posted a statement defending its efforts to keep the address issue from blocking anyone from voting.

“Rest assured, advocacy for elections and constitutional rights is a bedrock principle for PVAMU,” the statement said. “We will always fight to have our voices heard. We understand the importance of students fulfilling their civic duty and will continue to work with officials across Texas to make sure that voting rights are protected during this important election season.”

Lisa Seger, a Democrat running against state

PVAMU awarded $5.3 million grant to tackle food shortages Defender News Services

Prairie View A&M University is working to find a cure for a real-world problem: food insecurity. The university was recently awarded a $5.3 million grant from the Texas A&M Chancellors Research Initiative to start the Integrated Food Security Research Center (IFSRC).

The center will provide research, academic and outreach efforts to study the causes of food insecurity, the impacts of the issue, and finding ways to alleviate the lack of food in certain communities, specifically, communities of color.

Food security is an issue that affects persons on a national and international scale. World-

wide, it has been estimated that one out of nine persons is food insecure. Compared to the national average, the state of Texas has among the highest rates of food insecurity in the United States at about 14 percent in 2017.

In 2015, a study indicated that three Texas counties – Harris, Dallas and Tarrant – ranked fourth, sixth and 10th respectively in the U.S. in the number of food-insecure persons.

A further examination of the food insecurity data from the USDA showed that demographically, African-Americans (22.5 percent) followed

by Hispanics (18 percent) had the highest levels of food insecurity in the U.S.

Rep. Cecil Bell Jr., R-Magnolia, said she was pleased by the secretary of state’s decision but stressed that there was a larger problem: “We don’t treat the student population like residents.”

Seger said that the students’ access to voting has been “problematic forever.”

Waller County commissioners are expected to consider a recommendation from Eason to add additional early voting locations and times on campus, according to a statement released by the county.

classifieds Horizon International Group Owner’s Representative for Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church

Is inviting all subcontractors to bid on the expansion of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. Tellepsen Builders, L.P., has been selected

by Horizon as the CM@Risk General Contractor. The project consists of demolition of existing infrastructure, a new fully-developed Sanctuary, a shelled Christian Education Center, and associated sitework and is schedule for construction from fall of 2018 to spring of 2020. All parties interested in providing subcontracting or material supplier services must prequalify by contacting Mercedes Lopez-Berrios at mberrios@tellepsen.com with the email subject WABC Prequalification. Bids for this project are due on November 6th, 2018 at 2:00pm.

Potential teaming opportunities in the following trades:* •Concrete •Plumbing •Metals •HVAC •Finishes •Electrical •Structural Steel

*There are subcontracting opportunities in all trades on this project.

Horizon has been and will continue to be an advocate for minority, woman, and small business inclusion on both public and private projects. To that end, all parties involved are requiring the use of local minority and women owned firms in the construction of this project.

You do not need to be certified by a particular agency, but you should identify what level of participation you anticipate to be able to provide.

The use of teaming and mentor-protégé agreements for this project is highly encouraged.

For updates on the project, please enroll in the project website: www.wabc-expansion.com.

Please contact the following individuals for more information on the project: Project Updates: Morris Bennett Project Manager 713-660-8282 mbennett@hgiusa.com

Subcontractor Registration: Michael Brown Diversity Outreach Manager 713-660-8282 mbrown@hgiusa.com

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OCTOBER 18 | 2018 | DEFENDER

Houston NAACP celebrates 100th anniversary

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By MARILYN MARSHALL Defender

The Houston Branch of the NAACP is observing 100 years of fighting for equality, and its future can be summed up in the theme of its upcoming Centennial Freedom Fund Awards Dinner: “Celebrating our Relevancy, Re-Engagement and Rights!”

The NAACP will recognize six centennial honorees with awards at the dinner: AFL-CIO Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, NAACP Houston Branch President Emeritus Howard Jefferson, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, Dr. Rod Paige and Congressman Al Green (a former Houston Branch president).

The Houston Branch was founded on May 31, 1918. The first executive committee members were Horace F. Edwards, Henry Mims, M.B. Patten and Clifford F. Richardson (Defender founder).

Lulu B. White was the branch’s first executive secretary.

Dr. James Douglas, branch president, stressed the NAACP’s relevance in 2018.

“It is extremely relevant today because of the kind of discrimination we were created to eliminate is probably more prevalent In an early NAACP photo, Rev. Bill Lawson (center) and other today than it has been in quite a while,” he said. activists carry signage.

Douglas, a distinguished cannot get out of jail,” he said. professor of law at Texas See the NAACP’s greatest accomplishments at In terms of voting he Southern University, has been DefenderNetwork.com said, “We don’t tell people who involved with the NAACP to vote for. We just tell them more than 35 years. He said the it’s important for them to vote.” organization has more than 21 committees “working on 21 differDouglas said one of the greatest challenges facing the organient issues,” and its current focuses include criminal justice, public zation is the lack of a “contiguous community” in Houston. education and getting out the vote.

“Back in the ‘50s and ‘60s when we were all living in the “We have spent a lot of times in the last few months dealing same communities, we were all having the same racial issues in the with the bail issue and the fact that in Harris County, people who sense that discrimination and segregation harmed everyone who have money can get out of jail, and people who don’t have money

Houston President Dr. James Douglas, President & CEO Derrick Johnson and state President Gary Bledsoe attend grand opening of NAACP Disaster Support Command Center (Photo by Aswad Walker)

was African-American.

“Now that we no longer have legalized segregation, everybody doesn’t hurt the same. The problem now is trying to get those people who don’t hurt as much to help people who do hurt.”

Centennial Freedom Fund Awards Dinner Friday, Oct. 26, 7 p.m.

Marriott Marquis Houston, 1777 Walker www.naacphouston.org

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 18 | 2018

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sports

QB D’Eriq King leads Cougars to top of division

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D’Eriq King

By MAX EDISON Defender

he University of Houston Cougars are off to a hot start for the 2018 season.

With a 5-1 record and 2-0 in American Athletic Conference (AAC) play, they are currently in first place in the West Division.

The reason behind UH’s success has been the outstanding play of junior quarterback D’Eriq King. The Manvel product has smoothly operated the Cougars’ high-octane offense to near perfection. As proof of their explosive offense, consider this: • Houston is second nationally in total offense with an average of 582.2 yards per game while ranking fourth nationally and leading the American with an average of 50.0 points per game.

• Houston is the only school in the nation to rank in the top 15 for both passing offense (No. 15, 317.4) and rushing offense (No. 11, 264.8).

• Nine different players have receiving TDs and eight different players across three position groups have rushing TDs. As an All-State QB at Manvel High, King was recruited as a wide-out. He took over the reins at quarterback in week nine of the 2017 season, leading the Cougars to an upset over nationally ranked University of South Florida (USF).

This season with an entire offseason to refine his QB skills, King has been outstanding. First-year offensive coordinator Kendal Briles is effusive with praise for his young signal caller.

“The kid is a tremendous leader. As a person, he’s a better person than he is a player,” Briles said. “He’s just a tremendous ambassador for the university. I love working with him.”

“Every day is the same with him. You know what you’re getting every single day. He’s a great learner,” Briles continued. “He really cares about being a great quarterback, and most of the great quarterbacks do so.

When you have that, and then you have some God-given abilities, you have the opportunity to be successful.”

King believes his stint at receiver has helped make him a better quarterback.

“It helps a lot…getting the speed of the game and adjusting,” King said. “I kind of know what those guys go through. Just knowing that helps me as a quarterback.”

King, a low-key personality, described his leadership style.

“I feel like I’m not the ‘screamer.’ I’m a ‘show you how to do it’ type and I’m going to work as hard as I can to just try and get my guys

As UH quarterback, King is in charge of an explosive offense.

King, who is nationally ranked, was All-State at Manvel High School.

going. I was kind of the same in high school. I was never much of a talker or screamer.”

When one sees King perform on the gridiron, memories of his predecessor – All-Conference quarterback and Philadelphia Eagles receiver Greg Ward Jr. – immediately come to mind. They are physical doubles, and King said Ward has helped him evolve as a leader and quarterback.

“I talk to Greg a good amount. He’s always told me to just be myself, become a better leader and work hard every day,” King said. “He and I did the exact same thing, receiver for a year and a half and then taking over at quarterback. Getting advice from him has helped me a lot.”

The Cougars take on an always tough Navy team on Friday, Oct. 20 in Annapolis. They return home for an Oct. 27 key AAC match-up with Charlie Strong’s nationally ranked USF team.

King by the numbers *300-yard passing game, three TDs through the air and one on the ground. *6th nationally and leads the (AAC) with 20 passing touchdowns. *11th nationally, and second in the American (AAC) with an average of 317.2 yards of total offense per game, while ranking 19th nationally and second in the American with an average of 272.4 passing yards per game. *152 points, leads the nation with an average of 30.4 points responsible per game. *168.2 passer rate, which is the second best in the conference and 16th nationally.

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h.s. sports

OCTOBER 18 | 2018 DEFENDER

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The Westside High School volleyball team is undefeated in district play. (Photos by Jodie B. Jiles & Jimmie Aggison)

Westside volleyball coach

Andre King brings intensity at Delmar against Carnegie on Saturday, Oct. 20 at 11:30 a.m., and against Heights on Tuesday, Oct. 23 at 5 p.m.

He spoke with the Defender about his team’s success in the With an overall record of 26-4 and an undefeated 11-0 record regular season and how he plans to continue to win as the playoffs in district play, Westside volleyball coach Andre King has led the loom in pursuit of a state championship.

Lady Wolves to stand alone atop District 18-6A. King and his team Defender: What were the keys to the recent victories over are currently riding an 11-game winning streak, a testament to their Bellaire and Westbury? work in practice and at game time.

King: Keeping the intensity Shaska Davis, a Westside senior going. As long as we didn’t give them and University of Louisiana Monroe anything I felt that we could win the commit, said King is amazing. match. We have been practicing hard “What makes my coach amazall season and all we are about is ing is that he makes us work so hard intensity. and he pushes us in a calm manner Defender: You’re currently that is never forced or something we riding a 11-game win streak. How do don’t want to do,” she said. “He has you keep the intensity going for your been working with us 24/7 every day, team as the playoffs approach? [including] all-day Saturday practices King: It’s always an uphill battle with two-a-days.” in the second half of the season. We Nicole Sagarra, also a senior, started off in the preseason playing elaborated on King’s practices. well. Then we had a little dip there “Everything in our practice is and now were starting to rise again.

King speaks with a referee during a game. focused on discipline, and we have So, I think we are peaking at the right fun but at the end of time. the day we are going to Defender: What For game & sideline photos of Westside visit stick to our strategy and makes this group of @ DefenderHighSchoolSports everything that we do, players so special? and make sure we execute King: This group has properly,” she said. been together since they were freshmen and 10 of them came in the “Every single practice he reminds us, ‘Hey guys, you know same class and made it to varsity. So, we have 10 seniors this year you want to win district, and that doesn’t just happen by itself. You and they are experienced. Nothing really gets their feathers ruffled. have to put in work every single day.’ So, he’s been the best coach It doesn’t matter how much they are down they figure they can ever and makes sure we all have discipline.” come back and win.”

King and the Lady Wolves will close out the regular season Defender: How would you describe your coaching style?

By Jodie B. Jiles Defender

King: If you just walk in our practices you would probably think it’s a little bit crazy but again, we are all about intensity. It is an aggressive game; the aggressor usually wins and that is what we practice.

Coach Andre King believes in practice and an aggressive game.

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DEFENDER | OCTOBER 18 | 2018

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Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

topevents

2018 MEN WHO COOK HOUSTON……..Phenomenal Pearls Educational and of color. SMASH participants networked with top STEM professionals while Charitable Foundation and 100 Black Men Houston Metropolitan Chapter held the enjoying a SMASH alumni reunion. Attendees included SMASH co-founder Dr. third annual Men Who Cook event. Held on the campus of Texas Southern University, Freada Kapor Klein, AnitaB.org President & CEO Brenda Darden Wilkerson, the event boasted over 30 local chefs preparing their signature entrees, appetizers, Dr. Danielle Rose, Dr. Allison Scott, Haile Shavers, Lateja Whittaker, Calista side dishes and desserts. Proceeds from the event will benefit scholarships for area Nelson, Esther Melton, Ulili Onovakpuri and countless others…….. DEFENDER high school students and support community programming. Attendees included event MINISTERS OF MUSIC EXTRAORDINAIRE AWARDS……..The Defender chair Angela Knight, Lisha Lacy, Ellene Polidore, Osjetta Gascey, Chef Ewart Network recently celebrated local standout ministers of music from starter, small/ and Tincy Gayle, Chef Jerome Harrison, Juan Wyms, average-sized, medium, large and mega churches with the inaugural Holly Njoku, Ashley Jordan, Chef Bennie Childs, Kristi Defender TOP EVENTS Defender Ministers of Music Extraordinaire Awards. The winners Rangel, Hendrix King and scores more……..SMASH @ More photos on defendernetwork.com were Noelle Wheeler, Inspiration Church (starter); Michael Pickett, GRACE HOPPER CONFERENCE HOUSTON……..

Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist (small/average); Chad Brawley, Put together by AnitaB.org, a group that supports women in The Luke Church (medium); Keith Eason, Ft. Bend Church (large); technology, the Grace Hopper Conference, an annual, three-day event that features and Pamela Davis, Fountain of Praise (mega). Pastor D.Z. Cofield’s Good Hope career fairs, trainings and talks from notable women and women of color in STEM Missionary Baptist Church served as the host site, while Yolanda Adams, Marcus fields came to Houston. The event attracted over 20,000 people, including 50-plus D. Wiley and Anthony Valary served as MCs for the event led by V. Michael young women of color sponsored by the Oakland-based SMASH Academy, a free McKay. Attendees included Carla Brown, Harvey and LaTosha Clemons, Ashley STEM-intensive college prep program for underrepresented high school students Alexander, Amber Shaw and many more.

Angela Knight, Melinda Spaulding, Lisha Lacy

Dr. Allison Scott, Bukky Adebayo

Ministers of Music Award Winners

Chef Jarron Darton, Michelle Williams

Dr. Freada Kapor Klein, Haile Shavers

Pastor D.Z. Cofield, Yolanda Adams, V. Michael McKay

Adraon Greene, Dr. Serge Madhere, Calvin Meneph

Kim Bardakian, Latejah Whittaker

Craig Harris, Greta Williams, Pat Williams

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years