Winter/Spring 2011 Edition by InSpire Magazine

YES

WE CAN!

InSpire Team Members

Administration President and CEO, Dr.

Lee J. Jones, Atlanta, GA

Chief Financial Officer, Mr.

Derrick James, Durham, NC

General Counsel, Attorney

John Igewebuike, Alcorn, MS

Executive Assistant To President, Yash Director of Research, Dr. Chief of Security, Mr.

Scarlett, Jacksonville, FL

Charles Osiris, San Jose, CA

Marcus Miller, Tallahassee, FL

National Collegiate Director, Mr. Senior Advisor, Dr.

Rahfeal Gordon, Newark, NJ

Rubin Cockrell, Nashville, TN

Senior Advisor, Mr.

Michael Blair, Atlanta, GA

Senior Advisor, Dr.

Kevin Rome, Durham, NC

InSpire Enterprise Executive Director Be-InSpired Publishing, Dr.

Michelle Thomas, Columbia, SC

Editorial Assistant, Dr. Co-Director InSpire Models, Ms. Co-Director InSpire Attire, Mr. Co-Director InSpire Attire,

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Coordinator of InSpire Greeting Cards, Castile

Corbert, Beaumont, TX

Operations Chief of Staff and Director Human Resources, Ms.

Mary Menefield, Tallahassee, FL

Administrative Coordinator, Mrs. Director of Special Projects, Ms.

Mary Grayson, Tallahassee, FL

Vontrell Randall, Jacksonville, FL

Marketing Vice President of Marketing,

Mr. Charles Davis, New York, NY

Graphic Designer, Graphic Designer,

Mr. Darius Dinkins, Orlando, FL

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Graphic Designer, Ms. Jennifer Hockless, Port Arthur, TX

Creative Design Team Creative Director,

Mr. Jason Paige, Atlanta, GA

Art Director,

Ms. Ikelia Francis, Miami, FL

Art Director, Art Director,

Mr. Philip Chambers, Columbus, OH

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Art Director, Art Director, Ms.

Mr. Lionel Cornelius, Jr. Chicago, IL

Melloney Campbell, Ortario, Canada

InSpire Us Foundation Vice President InSpire Us Foundation,

Ms. Cherelle James, Durham, NC

Director of Marketing, Ms.

Angelique Stallings, Durham, NC

Director of Development, Mr. Director of Sponsorship, Mr.

Aaron Pugh, Auburn, VA

DeShawn Spellman, New York, NY

Grant Specialist, Mr. Graphic Design,

Derrick Drakeford, Bowie, MD

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Regional Team

InSpire MAGA ZINE

East Region North, Mr.

Gary Jones, Newark, NJ

Administrative Coordinator Northeast Region, Ms.

Wanda Foy-Burroughs, Newark, NJ

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Gerald Russell, Hillside, NJ

Sales Team Vice President of Sales, Mr. Kenneth Guzman, Jacksonville, FL Sales Associate, Ms. Hotensia Morgan, Radcliff, KY Sales Associate, Mr. Jason Powell, Wilmington, DE Sales Associate, Mr. Castile Colbert, Beaumont, TX Administrative Assistant, Ms. Marian Barkley-Ellis, Tallahassee, FL

Editorial Team Managing Editor, Dr. Copy Editor, Ms.

Danny Hoey, Houston, TX

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Photography, Mr.

Tony Leavell, Tallahassee, FL

Editor of Arts and Culture, Mr. Health and Fitness Editor, Mr. Hip Hop Editor, Mr.

Tony Anderson, Philadelphia, PA

Editor for Spirituality, Dr.

Cortez Henderson, Pine Bluff AR

Higher Education Editor, San Diversity Editor, Dr.

Antonio, TX

Eddie Moore, Jr. Seattle, WA

Community Editor, Mr. Sports Editor, Mr.

Patrick Sims, Madison, WI

Courtney Cornwall, Washington, DC

Joseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gutierrez, Tacoma, WA

Patrick Lee, San Jose, CA

Editor of Business and Economics, Dr. Fashion and Beauty Editor, Ms. K-12 Editor, Dr.

Boyce Watkins, Syracuse, NY

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Technology Team Vice President for Technology, Mr.

Mike Grant, Charlotte, NC

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Mr. Adrian Cameron, New Brunswick, NJ

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Calderon, Tallahassee, FL

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Keith Woods, Tallahassee, FL

InSpire Magazine Interns Kendra Anderson, ShaKera Akins, Brittany Barriner, Earlena Boswell, Taylar Barrington, Stephanie Burton, Ikera Francis, Randy Grice, Jason Powell, Kiara Jones, Michael Johnson, Natalie Joseph, Dana King, Britt Lyle, Reginald Lott, Meisha McLeod, Leslie Moore, Tineosha Sulker, John Torrence, Ava Perkins, Dover, Jeremy Monicello, Jon Perkins, Courtney Burrell, Christopher L. Harper, Ashley Bates, Brittany Barriner, Kendra Anderson, Junior Skepple, Kikora Mason

Www.inspiremag.org

2011

[contents]

InSpire

www.inspiremag.org

p.129

p.43 p.31 43

Vickie Winans

Revealing her secrets to peace of mind and success. Morris Chestnut

129 On top of his game and still a force in Hollywood. 16

Remarkable Journey at Morgan State University:

The Richardson era

the Truth about being Successful

120 A comprehensive list of seven tough truths to being succesful. 22

Nations Treasures

Historically black college and university presidents.

p.22 7

InSpire

[departments]

2011 InSpire

www.inspiremag.org

art expression

top 40 Inspirers

Ask Dr. J

youth

Attitudes of Fashion

Business & Economics

Comedy

community

despite the odds

127

other news of interest

higher education

115

inspiring books

let your haters be your motivators

letters to the editor

MAn on a mission

on fire for inspire

people to watch

picture spreads

112

poetry

prez column

sports

InSpire

124

Florida A&M Marching 100 strikers allstars

[ prez. column ]

We thank you for the support you have provided us. ” “

InSpire Magazine InSpire Us Foundation ILEAD Institute B-InSpired Talk Radio Your Voice TV InSpire Film InSpire Models BeinSpired Publishing InSpire Attire InSpire Models Dr. J’s Personal Site

> www.inspiremag.org > www.inspireusfoundation.org > www.ileadinstitute.org > www.binspiredtalkradio.com > www.yourvoicetv.org > www.letyourhatersbeyourmotivators.com > www.inspiremodels.com > www.beinspiredpublishing.info > www.inspireattire.org > www.inspiremodels.org > www.mydesiretinspire.org

We are pleased to announce our new InSpire movie: Let Your Haters Be Your Motivators. This movie was released nationwide and is sure to keep you talking about how to deal with the “Haters” in your life. To see the trailer for this movie, you may visit the website at www.letyourhatersbeyourmotivators.com There are so many more things in store for InSpire that space, nor time will allow me to give full details.

Dear InSpire reader: By now many of you have settled in to the 2011 year! I am not one for New Years resolutions. Suffice it to say that I, like you, have thanked God for allowing me to see another year to be blessed and to be a blessing to others. On behalf of the entire InSpire Magazine Team across the country, we thank you for the support you have provided us. With ten months remaining in this year, we are determined now more than ever to bring you the very best in magazine production. We are working very hard behind the scenes with some of our strategic partners to offer you more opportunities to stay InSpired despite the challenges that face the world. We have spent the last year redesigning our logos. In the next edition we will highlight our new logos. Many of you know that InSpire is truly more than a magazine, we are an answer! We offer a range of services including but not limited to the following:

In this edition, we have several inspiring stories and ads that will put a smile on your face and warm your heart! Our cover feature Ms. Vickie Winans and Morris Chestnut! Ms. Vickie Winans is by far the hardest working woman in gospel music! The only thing that exceeds her incredible work ethic is her unforgettable generosity and spirit! She is one of the most genuine people I have had the pleasure of meeting. She opened up her heart and home to InSpire Magazine to provide a great interview! Mr. Morris Chestnut took the time from his busy schedule to meet with us in Indianapolis, IN. He is an extraordinary person with great talents. Attorney Dr. John Igwebuike captures our attention with his very timely story on the “Truth About Being Successful” and Rev. Greg James speaks candidly about going from Prison to Praise. His story will capture your soul. This edition also highlights The University of Michigan who touts their successful minority student retention and graduation rates in their physics program while we report that FAMU still has the number one university band in the country. I am sure you will enjoy this edition as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Sit back and read these great stories and many more! Remember, the Bottom Line is Results and Anything Else is Rhetoric! Be InSpired! Respectfully,

InSpire

Lee Jones, President and Executive Editor InSpire Magazine

[ letters to the editor ] I am a very dedicated and loyal fan of InSpire Magazine and all that you and your company do to InSpire. I was very pleased to hear about the new movie release: Let Your Haters Be Your Motivators. It is unfortunate that people still “hate on each other” when we need more than any other time in recent history to be unified. I cannot wait to see the movie. Karen Kalamazoo, MI I read your recent edition of InSpire and found it absolutely fascinating! You guys do a wonderful job at staying away from the industry gossip and focusing on the positive side of peoples’ lives. InSpire Magazine is a welcomed edition to the shelves of America! Walter Los Angeles, CA I read the piece you wrote about Mayor Cory Booker of Newark, NJ. It was very informative. We often only hear about the so called “bad” things of Newark, New Jersey. We are blessed to have a great mayor of our city. Thank you for recognizing that and featuring him on the cover. Pam Newark, NJ Wow! Wow! Wow! I picked up my InSpire Magazine from a local store in Tallahassee, FL today and it was great to see that InSpire has expanded its publication. Although I am very busy, I had to take a second to send you this email to thank you for being such a positive force in the Tallahassee, FL community! Samantha Tallahassee, FL Where has InSpire been? We thought you have dropped off the face of the earth. While I like the concept of InSpire Magazine, I wish you can publish more often, or keep your readers up on what’s happening with Inspire. Have you thought about going totally electronic? Karen Chicago, IL

[ letters to the editor ] My mom was recently featured in InSpire Magazine. I was shocked to see that a national magazine reaches out to “ordinary people” like my mom. I pray for you and the magazine everyday that people know and appreciate what you do to provide inspiration to so many! Kevin New Haven, CT I have known Dr. Lee J. Jones since he was a kid at Delaware State University. It is no surprise to us in Dover that he is still InSpiring people across the globe and beyond. Know that the Dover, Delaware Community will always be with you in spirit!

I had a chance to read the article on the National Forum for Black Public Administrators in your last edition. It was very well done. Never would I have thought I would meet Dr. J when he spoke in Austin, TX during our National Conference. I can see why he heads this magazine. What an InSpiration. I am sharing the magazine and Dr. J’s speeches with anyone who read and listen! Sue Austin, TX

Sharon Dover, DE I had a chance to review the new InSpire Magazine new Song: InSpire! Wow! I listen to it everyday after my meditation. Can you please let me know who wrote it and who sings it? They did a great job! Patrick Tallahassee, FL

GTCC_Inspire.qxp

6/5/2007

4:13 PM

InSpire Magazine welcomes letters from our readers and/or supporters. Please note that InSpire reserves the right to grammatically edit and reduce the length of your letters based on need and space availability. Due to the number of letters we receive we are unable to publish all letters submitted. We appreciate your time. You may send your letters via e-mail to: Letters to the editor at inspire@inspiremag.org

Page 1

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InSpire

[ ask dr. j ]

Dr.J

Ask

which is often the case in many families. There have been many who have studied this issue of death and dying and, who, perhaps is much more qualified to offer their thoughts. I offer you the following: Death brings about deep rooted feelings that many have never had to deal with in their adult lives. Often many people are unsure of what to do with those feelings and will often direct negative energy toward people who is closest to them. There are a myriad to stages that people go through when they loose a loved one: (1) Shock, (2) Sadness, (3) Denial, (4) Anger, (5) Guilt, (6) Depression, or (7) Acceptance. Depending on the relationship that person may have with the deceased, will dictate what level and how long they will stay at each stage. Nor are the stages mentioned as linear for each person.

Dr. J

Dr. J I have a dilemma and hope that you are able to provide a solution for me (us). I come from a family of four siblings. There are two boys and two girls. I lost my father when I was two and my mom died this time last year. Just to give you a little history, all of my siblings (including me) have gone to college and earned at least a bachelors degree. We have always been a very close family. However, since my mom passed it seems that we have been divided as a family. Everyone does their own thing. We do not talk on the phone as much as we use to. It seems as though every time we do talk we end of getting in to major arguments. Feelings were hurt based on who got what when we divided my motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal belongings. My youngest sister says that she really does not want to be bothered with the family anymore. I promised my mom that I will do my part to keep the family together, but it is like pulling teeth to get the family on one accord like it was when mom was alive. I read somewhere where you were interviewed and you mentioned that you experienced many deaths in your family. What solutions to these family spats would you offer? Candi Charlotte, NC

Wow! Where should I start? First let me say that I am not sure if I can offer any solutions to the problems your family face, as I would need additional information to gain a better assessment of the situation. Second, I have witnessed and have heard of many family dynamics that change once a member of the family passes on. These dynamics take a more dominant influence based on the role the deceased played in the family. It sounds like your mom was the â&#x20AC;&#x153;glueâ&#x20AC;? that held things together in your family, 13

What I would suggest is that you first pray that God gives you the strength and patience to call everyone together for a family meeting. This will allow people to face their siblings and state exactly what is on their minds. In many cases there is mis-communication, perceptions and other misconceptions that cloud their (your) ability to think clearly. Keep in mind that your siblings and other family members are human beings first and then they are relatives. This simply means that as humans we are some times irrational, selfcentered, and sometimes contradictory. We must have a consistent spirit of Love and Patience. Know that in time you will never forget a loved one, but you will be provided the strength to deal with the physical absence.

St ay Blessed!

InSpire

[attitude of fashion]

The Richardson Era

istorians of Morgan State University call the period between 1984 and the present Morgan’s “Third Era of Great Progress,” when it became Maryland’s public urban research university, not only in name but also in fact. They have another name for this time, also: “the Era of Dr. Earl S. Richardson.”

His colleagues and even opponents credit Dr. Richardson for his extraordinary leadership and management over the past quarter century. His hard work, steady hand, determination and passion enabled Morgan to thrive. And his sense of mission benefited other Historically Black Colleges and Universities, as well, during an era of indifference or open hostility to HBCUs by many politicians on the state and national levels.

Earl S. Richardson, Ed.D. was appointed Morgan’s 11th president on Nov. 1, 1984, after serving eight months as interim head of the university. From his arrival at Morgan, during a time of administrative turmoil, until his retirement last Dec. 31, the university experienced tremendous growth and development — in the credentials of its faculty, in its academic programs, in its learning and living facilities, in the qualifications of its incoming students, in its impact on the diversity of the nation’s work force, in research dollars attracted to the university, in funds raised for the university, and in many other areas.

“Dr. Richardson truly implemented the vision as reflected in the university’s enhancement plan, says Dallas R. Evans, chairman of Morgan’s Board of Regents. “He has taken the university to a pinnacle where it had not been previously in its history.” By the time he took the top post at Morgan, at age 41, Dr. Richardson had acquired a wealth of experience over 19 years in educational administration — with the University of 16

InSpire

Maryland System, as assistant to the president, and with the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), as assistant to the chancellor, director of Career Planning and Placement and acting director of Admissions and Registration. His educational credentials were just as solid: a bachelor’s degree in social science from UMES and master’s and doctoral degrees in education administration from the University of Pennsylvania. But his new job represented a significant challenge.

“BIG Challenge”

“Now that you mention it, the beginning of his tenure was somewhat like the beginning of Obama’s tenure,” says Ruthe T. Sheffey, Ph.D., Morgan Class of 1947 and a longtime

The Journey

professor of English at the university. “Deeply, deeply troubled, with major, major problems that had to be solved.” Between the resignation of Dr. Martin D. Jenkins from Morgan’s presidency in 1970 and Dr. Richardson’s arrival, Morgan had had two presidents — King Vergil Cheek, J.D. and Andrew Billingsley, Ph.D. In between, Thomas P. Fraser, Ed.D. had served twice as interim president. By the end of Dr. Billingsley’s tenure, by many accounts, the institution was in crisis. The faculty’s and students’ dissatisfaction with the university administration was high, infighting among faculty and staff was rampant, enrollment was declining, and many Morganites feared the school was on the verge of collapse. Clara Adams, Ph.D., now special assistant to the president of Morgan State, was vice president for Academic Affairs for the University then. She joined Morgan’s faculty in 1959, during the Jenkins administration, after earning three degrees in chemistry, including a bachelor’s from Morgan.

MSU’s Growth and Development, 1984–2009 • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Improved credentialing of faculty: tenure-track faculty holding terminal degrees increased to more than 90 percent Thirty-eight new academic programs Accreditation and reaccreditation of all qualified academic programs Designation as a doctoral research institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching Renovation of 17 living and learning facilities and construction of 12 new facilities and facilities replacements, totaling more than $350 million Increase in enrollment of more than 75 percent Dramatic increase in SAT scores of incoming freshmen Growth of more than 1,000 percent in dollar amount of external grants and research funding Successful completion of a capital campaign that exceeded its goal of $25 million in record time High state and national rankings for Morgan in the production of AfricanAmerican graduates Outstanding success for Morgan graduates, including three of the five African-American four-star Army generals commissioned in the nation’s history Graduation of more Fulbright Scholars than any institution of comparable size in the U.S. Worldwide acclaim for the Morgan State University Choir 17

InSpire

“The problems weren’t with Morgan. The problems were with our external environment,” Dr. Adams says. “When Dr. Jenkins was here, we got what we got primarily because of his dogged persistence. He would go down to the state legislature, and he would pretty much demand what he should have (for) his programs at the college. “In the late ’60s, the state started to expand public higher education,” she continues. “All of the state teachers colleges were made state colleges, and Morgan was forced under the Board of Trustees of State Colleges of Maryland with them. After that, whenever Dr. Jenkins would ask for anything, the answer was, ‘Morgan is already an established liberal arts college. We have to develop these other schools.’ “So, I feel that between the time that (Dr. Jenkins) left and during the five years Cheek was the president and the almost 10 years following that Dr. Billingsley was the president,

Remarkable

Morgan went through 15 years of benign neglect.”

Nor was help forthcoming from the federal level, says Kweisi Mfume, MSU Class of 1976 and a current member of Morgan’s Board of Regents. When Dr. Richardson took on Morgan’s presidency, Mfume was a member of the Baltimore City Council. Three years later, Maryland’s 7th District sent the councilman to the U.S. House of Representatives. “Basically, historically black colleges were viewed by the majority in Congress as entities to be rolled into larger college and university campuses,” Mfume says. “Congress as a whole just did not step up with the kind of leadership that was required, because HBCUs just were not a top agenda item.” It was onto this hazardous political landscape that Dr. Richardson made his entrance, determined to launch a renaissance of Morgan State University.

“Master Builder”

Adams says. “…(Dr. Richardson) was young, a brand new president, had had no experience in being a president, and I think Morgan’s opponents thought that we were going to just self-destruct, that it was just a matter of time. (But) it didn’t happen. He came in and turned this place around.”

Dr. Richardson worked steadily toward his longterm goals at Morgan, rebuilding trust between administrators and the faculty, raising admission standards for students and fighting effectively for funding for the university from the Maryland State legislature. Reflecting on Dr. Richardson’s deft handling of an order to reduce the size of Morgan’s faculty early in his tenure, Dr. Sheffey says, “I think his administration can be characterized by an attempt to take on difficult issues and sometimes unpleasant ones but to do it as humanely and as compassionately as possible.” “He went prepared and made a convincing argument” to the lawmakers in Annapolis, Dr. Adams relates. “(He) would go to the budget hearings with all of his charts and tables; he took students to have them speak on some of the things they were doing and where they were going when they graduated.”

“He really brought us to true university status,” Dr. 18

Dr. Richardson also built things from scratch at Morgan, when it was called for, as in the case of the School of Engineering. He recruited Dean Eugene M. DeLoatch for the new school, which opened during Dr. Richardson’s interim presidency, and the two have worked together over the past 25 years, nurturing an institution that now graduates 50 percent or more of the African-American engineers produced in Maryland each year. Achieving such successes required a wealth of relationship-building and teamworking skills, applied to committed partners such as the MSU Board of Regents, national presidents of the NAACP, and alumni and friends of Morgan in the Maryland General Assembly. At the end of his “Remarkable Journey” — Morgan’s apt new name for his tenure — Dr. Richardson has placed the university on a solid foundation for further progress and future growth, during this time of economic uncertainty for the nation as a whole.

InSpire

[ attitude of fashion ]

InSpire 19 InSpire

InSpire

MCC-Blue River can get you on track for a great career! From public safety to sustainable technology, we have the options you are looking for. Visit us online and start your career today!

InSpire

mcckc.edu/blueriver

816-220-6500

Providing Leadership for Our

Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Treasures : Historically Black College and University Presidents

Dr. Harry L. Williams, Delaware State University

istorically and Predominately Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have been the cornerstone of American Higher Education for well over 100 years. The impact that HBCUs and their graduates have on American Society are immeasurable. Suffice it to say, that some of modern day conveniences were discovered and produced by graduates of these institutions. Despite their harsh social, economic and psychological treatments of the past these institutions continued to press forward to make countless contributions to the world. In fact over 80% of all African American PhDs received their undergraduate degrees from HBCUs. Notable graduates like Thurgood Marshall, Douglas Wilder, Barbara Jordan, Paula Richardson, Alex Haley,

Langston Hughes, The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Earl Graves, Esther Rolle, Marian Wright Edelman, Lionel Ritchie, Oprah Winfrey, Spike Lee, Julian Bond, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and countless others have been pillars for the world. The leaders of these great institutions are often criticized and rarely recognized for the their hard work and dedication. The leaders of our HBCUs represent what InSpire Magazine has called our American Treasures! Now, more than any other time in American history, is the time where we need your support! Take a good look at the pictures on the subsequent pages, as they represent the true unsung heroes and sheroes of America!

22 InSpire InSpire

Attorney Johnny Taylor, President Thurgood Marshall College Fund

Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President United Negro College Fund

Dr. Alan Sessoms, University of District of Columbia

Dr. Albert L Walker, Bluefield State College

Dr. Andrew Hugine, Jr. Alabama A&M

Dr. Benjamin F. Payton, Tuskegee University

Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum, Spelman College

Dr. Beverly Wade Hogan, Tougaloo College

Dr. Billy C. Hawkins, Talladega College

Dr. Carlton E. Brown, Clark Atlanta University

Dr. Carolyn R. Mahoney, Lincoln University

Dr. Charles E. Young, Allen University

Dr. Charlie Nelms, North Carolina Central University

Dr. Claude Perkins, Virginia Union University

InSpire

Dr. Cleveland L. Sellers, President Voorhees College

Dr. Cornell Thomas, Jarvis Christian College

Dr. David Hall, University of Virgin Islands

Dr. David L. Beckley, Rust College

Dr. David Swinton, Benedict College

Dr. David Wilson, Morgan State University

Dr. Delbert W. Baker, Oakwood University

Dr. Dianne Boardley Suber, St. Augustine College

Dr. Donald Julian Reaves, Winston Salem State University

Dr. Dorothy Cowser Yancy, Shaw University

Dr. Dwight J. Fennell, Texas College

Dr. Eddie N. Moore, Jr., Virginia State University

Dr. Ernest McNealey, Stillman College

Dr. Everette J. Freeman, Albany State University.

Dr. G. Yarbrough, Savannah State University

Dr. George C. Bradley, Paine College

Dr. George E. Cooper, South Carolina State University

Dr. George T. French, Miles College

Dr. Harold L. Martin, Sr. North Carolina A&T University

Dr. Hazel Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Leary, Fisk University

InSpire

Dr. Hazo W. Carter, Jr. West Virginia State University

Dr. Henrey N. Tisdale, Claflin University

Dr. Henry Givens, Jr. Harris-Stowe State University

Dr. Frank Pouge, Grambling State University

Dr. Ivory V. Nelson, Lincoln University Pennsylvanya

Dr. James A. Anderson, Fayetteville State University

Dr. James H. Ammons, Florida A&M University

Dr. Jimmy Jenkins, Livingston College

Dr. JoAnn W. Haysbert, Langston University

Dr. John M. Rudley, Texas Southern University

Dr. Johnnie B. Watson, LLD, LeMoyne-Own College

Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Bennett College

Dr. Keith C. Norris, Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science

Dr. Larry Rivers, Fort Vally State University

Dr. Lawrence A. Davis, Jr. University of Arkansas Pine Bluff

Dr. Marvalene Hughes, Dillard University

Dr. Mary Evans Sias, Kentucky State University

Dr. Melvin N. Johnson, Tennessee State University

Dr. Michelle Howard-Vital, Cheney State University

Dr. Mickey L. Burnim, Bowie State University

InSpire

Dr. Norman Francis, President Xavier University

Dr. Norris Edney, (interim) Alcorn State University

Dr. Ray L. Belton, Southern University at Shreveport

Dr. Reginald S. Avery, Coppin State University

Dr. Robert L. Satcher, Sr. Saint Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College

Dr. Robert Michael Franklin, Morehouse College

Dr. Ronald L. Carter, Johnson C. Smith University

Dr. Ronald Mason Jr., Jackson State University

Dr. Sandra T. Thompson, (Interim), Florida Memorial University

Dr. Sidney A. Ribeau, Howard University

Dr. Sorrell, Paul Quinn College

Dr. Thelma B. Thompson, University of Maryland Eastern Shore

Dr. Trudie Kibbie Reed, Bethube Cookman University

Dr. Victor Ukpolo, Southern University at New Orleans

Dr. Walter Kimbrough, President Philander Smith College

Dr. Wayne Watson, Chicago State University

Dr. William H. Harris, Alabama State University

Dr. William J. Gilchrist, Elizabeth City State University

Dr. William L. Pollard, Medgar Evers College

John W. Garland, Esq, Central State University

The following pictures have not been received as of the printing of this edition: Mississippi Valley University, Norfolk State University, Prairie View A&M University, Tennessee State University, Huston-Tillotson University, Lane College, Wilberforce University, Wiley College

InSpire

[ business & economics ]

By: Dr. Boyce Watkins

here’s nothing wrong with a little shine in your life, especially since you have worked hard to get that degree. But attempting to become Paris Hilton on your first job can have you rolling on your way to bankruptcy court. Whether you earn 10 dollars per year or 10 Million, you are a financial slave if you are not saving, investing and letting your money grow. As I like to say, “To have nice stuff at 23 is human, but to be rich at 90 is divine”.

A person who saves $200 per week starting at the age of 22 and invests that money in the stock market for a 10% return every year will have roughly $43,000 by the time they are 32, $434,000 by the time they are 52, and $1.6 million when they are 65. That’s enough money to help Britney Spears find a replacement for Kevin.

Rule #1 The easiest way to stay poor is to never own anything. Renting an apartment will help your landlord get a house, not you. Buying cars helps the auto dealer get a new limo, not you. Get on the other side of that deal! Buy a house as quick as you can, buy stocks, buy bonds, own ASSETS. Don’t believe the hype about having a high paycheck; It means nothing if you don’t own anything.

Rule #5 Love is creepy sometimes, so watch who you hook up with. Merging your money with someone is like having sex with them: it can be an amazing experience or it can leave you burned and bitter. Whether it is marriage or starting a business together, only merge your money with someone who cares about your best interest. In other words, don’t waste your life with losers.

As a Finance Professor and your personal Financial Physician, let me give you a list of rules to live by, so that your grandkids will be riding high on the hog after you have cooked up the pork chops.

Rule #2 The quickest path to being owned by someone is to always work for someone else. Don’t just try to find a job, put yourself in position to CREATE a job. Start your own business as soon as you can. Remember, when you are working for someone else, they are usually earning 10 dollars for every dollar they pay you. That is what they would technically call “getting screwed”. Rule #3 Save at least 10% of your money every time you get paid, NO EXCUSES. You should pay yourself first by having the money come right out of your check.

Rule #4 Create multiple streams of income. Your salary should only be one. I don’t care if you sell comic books, Avon or rotten fish. Remember the words of a relatively wise hip-hop star: “If the grapes don’t sell, I dry em up and sell raisins.” Financial side shows provide job security, in case your boss hands you the pink slip. If you are smart, you can hand the pink slip to your boss.

Read my lips and follow these tips, and your future will have so much shine that Stevie Wonder will need to put on his sunglasses. Now that’s what I call a bright future! Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Finance Professor at Syracuse University. He has given advice to millions, including USA Today, The New York Times, ESPN, The News Hour with Jim Leher and Fox News. You can go to www.boycewatkins.com or www.BoyceWatkins.net for more information.

InSpire

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[ sports ]

InSpire

[ comedy ]

Antoine Scott Making People Laugh is What He Does

Antoine Scott was born in Richmond,VA and he is one of the busiest comics on the east coast. Antoine has a versatile style of reality humor. It is thought provoking and relates to life as one sees it, but with a slight twist which adds meaning to everyone at his shows. His versatility, stage presence, and flair can work intimate settings as well as national concert stages. Antoine is looked upon for an opening act for top comedians and as a headliner on the entertainment circuit. Antoine has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in show business including: D.L. Hugley, Kevin Hart, Monique, Tracy Morgan, Jo Koy, Earthquake, John Hinton, and Bill Bellamy just to name a few.

Antoine Scott television appearances includes Showtime @ the Apollo and TV ONE Bill Bellamy “Who Got Jokes”. He also appeared in the movie Evan Almighty with Steve Carell and Morgan Freeman. He has per-

formed in two stage plays: I Deserve Better; Antoine playing a different role as an abusive boyfriend - When a Woman is Loved Right from Redemption Production; Antoine playing the role as Pastor Jenkins. Antoine also performs for corporate events and charity functions such as CAMP DIVA, RICH Foundation and HRAC (Help Raise a Child)

Antoine Scott is an energetic and naturally funny performer who will make you laugh from the moment he steps on stage until the moment he steps off. His incredible energy will have the audience laughing out loud.

applauds

The International Aviation Womens Association

Ms.Mary McDaniel the woman who has inspired so many of us.

Congratulations on being named one of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top InSpirers.

777 Miccosukee Rd Ta l l a h a s s e e , F L 3 2 3 0 8 - 4 9 6 8 (850) 224-0105 w w w. a r t i s t i c f l o w e r s . c o m

[ community ]

By Kendra Anderson

teering the plane toward success is the goal of Memphis Aviation Professionals who have guided minority youth in Memphis, Tennessee to understand the importance of following their dreams. Sometimes the flight to fulfill dreams is a bumpy one and may get delayed due to weather or unpredictable obstacles. The Memphis Aviation Professionals are comprised of The Tuskegee Airmen, Memphis Blackhawks, The Bessie Coleman Foundation, National Black Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees, and The Organization of Black Airline Pilots. These multiple organizations have made reaching out to the next generation a unified goal. They contribute yearly to the Memphis Aviation Professionals Annual Youth Luncheon. For more than 15 years they have collectively collaborated in organizing this event, which began as an evening banquet. Students cheerfully filled Holiday Inn Select on Feb. 27, 2009, along with over 350 guests, 220 of them being students from kindergarten through 12th grade. FedEx Captain Kirby Haynes and Joe Powell gave up their seats voluntarily for students due to the overwhelming turnout. It is all about the students at this event as they receive information about local heroes, receive awards for participation, and a fulfilling meal to conclude the event. Rory Mitchner, the youth luncheon chairman and Thelma Rudd, President of The Bessie Coleman Foundation, stated that it is of the utmost importance to expose youth to key figures in the aviation field

the organization of

BLACK AIRLINE PILOTS, INC.

NavigatiNgturbuleNce and encourage them to become successful. Mitchner also stated that in addition to exposing Memphis students to the aviation industry, the students get a chance to meet and converse with actual pilots, air traffic controllers, and others that work in the industry. They are also informed about scholarships and Aviation camps within the Memphis area. Mitchner stated “The event targets minority youth, because in the Aviation industry minorities make up a small percentage. Airline pilots make up less than 3% industry wide.”

re-evaluatiNgthe approach RAISING HORIZONS

Rudd described Bessie Coleman as the “inspiration of aviation” and notes that Bessie Coleman and other aviation professionals are key figures whose accomplishments should be exposed and recognized at these annual luncheons. Allowing aspiring youth the opportunity to learn about the history and providing them with an understanding of the past obstacles, is an advantage because the students will have time to prepare for not only success, but prepare to defeat all odds. Rudd continued to explain that each year a different keynote speaker, who is involved in the profession is chosen to bring wisdom and knowledge to the participants and guests. “It’s one thing to read about people in a book. A book is fantasy, but to see someone speak makes it more real.” The 2009 keynote speaker was Sandra Campbell. She spoke of the life achievements of Bessie Coleman. She titled her speech, “Follow Your Dreams,” which was also the theme for the 2009 program. Bessie Coleman was the first African American woman to win her wings as an aviator. She was also the first American of any race or gender to earn an International Pilots License. Besides having guest speakers, the organizations engage the students’ interest in aviation by having poetry and art contest to compete for prizes. The goal of the contest is to encourage students to dream, to achieve, and to reach their fullest potential. Students are given an outlet to a better future whether it is in the aviation field or other careers. Encouraging students to be successful in whatever dream they choose is the overall mission. For the Memphis Aviation Professionals, reaching out and inspiring those who are our future takes a first class seat.

Captain James Gordon President

Cheryl Chew

exeCutive direCtor

A Legacy of Excellence!

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[ despite the odds ]

PASTOR GOES

By Brittany Barriner

from

‘‘

Rev. Greg James is evidence that there is hope for the future and forgiveness for the past. Rev. James gives insight on how he reclaimed his life after serving 13.5 years in a federal prison convicted for several drug charges, and how he uses his past experiences as a message for others.

Even when I try to do good, evil is always around me

“I truly believe that our problems are our promotions, our disasters can carry us to our destination, and our patience can manifest God’s promise,” said James. After being sentenced to life plus 40 years in 1996, James said it took the wake-up call of prison to change his life.

‘‘

Living a Double Life

(Romans 7:21)

In 1985 Rev. James became the pastor at the prominent Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Quincy Fla. While serving as the Pastor at Mt Zion, he was a key figure in his community, where he developed successful ministry programs designed to empower and improve the life of others. What his congregation and the community did not know, and would soon find out is that when he was not preaching or serving in his community, he was selling cocaine. 36

InSpire

Rev. James talks about how he was living a double life, and his constant strug-

gle between worldly things and Godly things. He said that while God was ministering to the people through him, he was a menace to society. He went on to explain how it looked as if everything was perfect in his life, but what people could not see was that he was trapped between salvation and damnation. “I was restless, scared and trapped, yet appearing free and successful,” said James. His Wake-up Call Rev. James said God allowed him to go to prison in order to get grab his attention. “The life I was living was prison, and I had been given a death sentence, because I was dying to sin,” said James. James said his prison experience served as a womb for birthing his life’s purpose.

Trapped behind bars surrounded by negativity and despair, James was determined not to let his environment disconnect him from his relationship with God. Instead he acknowledged his sins and came to terms with his conviction. Behind prison bars is when Rev. James began to realize what his true calling was, he realized that his situation could be used as a means to reach others going down the same path of destruction. Regardless of his past, James focused on what he had been called by God to do, minister to His people. Taking His Life Back

While in prison, James began the steps towards enhancing not only the lives of others, but that of his own. After graduating from Blackstone School of Law, RHEMA Bible College and North Texas Baptist Seminary, he created several programs in an effort to make a difference. These programs, with the help and cooperation of fellow inmates, were created in enlighten troubled youth, and others who were confined within the penal system. The programs started by James, include: Youth Encouraging Supporters (YES), designed to target at-risk

youth; Christian Outreach Ministry Evangelist (COME), which ministered through skits to various churches and youth groups; and Inmates Making A Difference (I-MAD), this program presented skits about choices, peer pressure and consequences.

James said he is thankful that God does not see him as man sees him, and is still gracious enough to bestow his favor upon him. “So I no longer have to depend on the pulpit to carry me, I carry it,” said James. Reclaiming The Land

Life After Prison In November, 2007, James was released to the Pensacola, Fl work release center. His transition was not an easy one. Trying to secure gainful employment and housing assistance as a convicted felon was difficult. Assistance for those returning to society after imprisonment was meager, but never the less needed. After a first-hand experience with the difficulties of re-entry after incarceration, he was determined to make a difference. In 2008 he founded Reclaiming The Land Ministries, Inc. a non-profit organization designed as a ministry with programs to restore family values, mentoring and transitional assistance for those negatively impacted by past felony convictions. James says he wants to let people know that his problems did not go away when the bars of the prison swung open, but through his faith, and his obedience to the will of God, he was able to re-gain his success. People’s Perceptions Returning to his hometown of Tallahassee, Fl, after the work release program ended, James knew he would have to face criticism for his past life. He spoke candidly about some of his experiences after returning home.

“Men and women who are “called” are not shepherds, they too are sheep. Our purpose is to lead people to Christ that He might be their shepherd,” said James. “This is evidenced by regardless of how sinful I was, God allowed me to lead people to Christ, people who even today still follow Him, not me, but yet have forgiven me,” said James. “However, there are many saints who have not forgiven me; pastors who will not allow me in their pulpit,” said James. 37

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Through Rev. James’ experiences, he is able to impact hundreds of youth around the world. Rev. James devotes his life to reaching out to troubled youth, assisting the poor, and volunteering within the community through his multitude of ministry programs. One of his most recent events was the “Thousand Man Rally”, a popular conference aimed at helping men take their position in their family, community, church and home. This conference has become wide-known uniting men from all walks of life.

James continues to share his story with youth across the United States, helping them realize that bad decisions can lead to life altering consequences. He has published one book Naked, a story about his life’s transformation, and is currently in the process of writing three more books: Failure Isn’t Final, Don’t Stop Living, and Birthing Ministry. James said he wouldn’t change anything from his past if he could. “My process was for my protection, and God’s purpose,” said James. James said even after serving 13.5 years behind bars, God never once left him. “I began to surrender to his will and only then could I experience the peace and freedom with myself, and God that I had never felt before. I could finally make things right with God because he is a God of a second chance,” said James. “Through Jesus Christ barriers stepping stones, crooked ways made straight (Isaiah 42:16) doors are open that no man shut.”(Revelations 3:8)

are are and can

[ art expression ] My name is David Woods. Since the beginning of my life in Panama City, Florida I have loved the animals that share our world. Whether it be the numorous species of fish we are so blessed to enjoy in our area or one of the birds of my favorite family, the birds of prey. I love and appreciate these animals. That is why I have chosen them to be the subject matter of many of my paintings and photography. I try to convey the majesty of the wild world of fish and birds. Besides wildlife, my other passions tend to be subjects of my paintings. Music is very close to my heart. I have been a musician since I was 11 years old. Also, music being the international language makes it the perfect choice for bringing joy into people’s homes.

DAVID WOODS

If I can make a piece of art that another person will enjoy for years to come I have done what I set out to do. I never set out on this journey in the world of art to make money. It just kind of became something that other people appreciated. To be honest, the main reason I continued this beyond the first piece is because of family and friends encouraging me and appreciating the art I had created. I decided as long as people continue to enjoy my creations I will continue to create them. Although now I believe I could never quit.

Painting is a very peaceful, personal time for me.

My photography tends to involve the same creatures that I love to include in my paintings. Though with photography I also enjoy helping people with my portraiture. Since their conception, photos have been something everyone uses to not only document times and situations, but to remember their lives with their family. I can’t explain the joy it brings when I see the look on the faces of a bride and groom when they see their perfect photographs for the first time. Or the way a mother smiles seeing her babies first photo. I guess what I am saying is bringing joy to other’s homes and lives is good enough reason for me to never stop following my calling. Some may not believe that the Lord has a purpose for everyone, but I know He does. And I believe mine is creating beautiful works of art for others to enjoy. So, whether I make a million dollars or ten, Freedom Photography and Fine Art will be around as long as Freedom Woods is. After all, it is the source of my freedom. Thank you for taking a minute to enjoy my work. You can see more images at my Myspace page located at www.myspace.com/freedomwoodsphotography. Check it 38

InSpire

out or email me at freedomwoodsphotography@hotmail.com for comments or special orders. Custom orders are welcome.

[ ask dr. j ]

InSpire

2PLE PEO PEOPLE

WATCH

Brashaad E. Mayweather ON AIR PERSONALITY

orn in Houston, Texas, Brashaad Mayweather was raised in Baltimore, Maryland. After breaking statewide records in football and completing High School, Mayweather attended The University of Arkansas a Pine Bluff on full scholarship for football, shortly after transferring to FAMU. Soon after, he signed his first pro football contract and became an established book author, publishing his first book “Control or be controlled” in 2008, all

before he graduated from college. Afterward, he graduated from FAMU with a B.A. in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing. Mayweather began doing radio, TV interviews for promotion of book, which eventually led to him setting up his own TV show, The “Mayweather Live” show in 2009 which is now airing in different cities across the nation.

Courtney O. Cornwall

HEALTH & WELLNESS PROFESSIONAL

ourtney is a resident of Leesburg, VA, but is a native of Manchester, Jamaica. He received an Athletic Scholarship to Ohio State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography. At Ohio State he was recognized as an All-American athlete, and received a number of awards and recognitions. He has successfully helped both individuals and corporations become physically fit and healthier for more than 8 years. Courtney currently coaches track and Field at Potomac Falls High School and working with a wide variety of corporate and individual clients. His passion lies in motivating and creating fitness strategies for individuals and coaches allowing individuals and teams to achieve their goals. Courtney Cornwall is a Health and Wellness professional with over eight years of experience in helping people reach their wellness goals. He has worked with individuals and teams of athletes motivating and leading them to reach their highest potential. He has proven track record of coaching track and field athletes to be better athletes and achieve as individuals and a team.

He has transformed a lifetime of personal success as Track and Field star into developing personal fitness programs tailored to meet the needs of individuals and groups. Courtney has created popular fitness running classes for Gold’s Gym, training novice runners to successfully complete road races. In his role as a Health and Wellness Coordinator for Cort, Inc, he manages a team of health coaches using innovation and leadership to recruit speakers and create seminars to improve the effectiveness of the coaches. In addition to managing health coaches, Courtney oversees a very successful Health and Wellness program for Cort employees. He has utilized his athletic and professional experience and knowledge to empower people to reach their highest potentials. Courtney believes in a holistic approach to health and wellness, creating fitness programs and seminars that address mental and physical well-being. As the President and Owner of OC Consulting, he creates individualized fitness programs for the average person, while nurturing a coach and athlete relationship as a motivational tool.

[ people to watch ] Nicole Campbell

Ph.D CANDIDATE APPLIED PHYSICS ulation, and product development which she performed at IBM Almaden Research Center and at the Unive

Nicole’s dissertation involves characterization of scattering from foliage camouflaged targets (F-CaT) where a complex target is reradiated by myriads of nearby foliage particles.

icole Campbell is a Ph.D. candidate in Applied Physics at the University of Michigan. She received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and minors in Mathematics and Physics from the University of Texas in December 2002. Nicole’s previous research experience spans from analog and digital design which she performed at National Semiconductor Corporation to electromagnetic scattering modeling, sim-

While currently a graduate student at the University of Michigan, Nicole has been an elected member of the University of Michigan’s student government for four years, and has served as Advisor to the Vice President of the University of Michigan for two years. In 2008 Nicole received the University of Michigan Distinguished Leadership Award and the Martin Luther King Jr. Spirit Award for her service to the university and promotion of minorities in the sciences and engineering. Furthermore, Nicole has won numerous National Science Foundation awards, is a Rackham Science fellow, Carl Storm Re-

search fellow, and a National Society of Black Engineers Torchbearer. Nicole has won numerous awards for her research, as well as co-authored a physics media textbook for high school and junior high school students for Addison-Wesley publishing. In 2007 Nicole received The Most Promising PhD Fellow in Science Award from the National Consortium of Graduate Degrees for her outstanding achievements in research.Furthermore, Nicole has won numerous National Science Foundation awards, is a Rackham Science fellow, Carl Storm Research fellow, and a National Society of Black Engineers Torchbearer. Nicole has won numerous awards for her research, as well as co-authored a physics media textbook for high school and junior high school students for Addison-Wesley publishing. In 2007 Nicole received The Most Promising PhD Fellow in Science Award from the National Consortium of Graduate Degrees for her outstanding achievements in research.

William White

ENTERTAINER & MODEL ing lyrics in front of the mirror. Too shy to tell others of his dreams, he expressed himself through poetry he’d write for his mother.

ill White, known to the music world as HollyCeasar, is an independent rapper, lyricist, model and actor. Like the hero of his own Hollywood tale, White discovered his passion for music, rapping specifically, at the tender age of eight. He developed his artistry in the hours he spent improvis-

His early years found him teamed with Cecil Brooks, a music producer who goes by the stage name Class. With Class, he produced music for his first artist. This experience whetted his appetite for more and he quickly moved on to work with Cannon Cruz and formed the label 5 Star Enterprise. His musical output during his time with Cruz was attention getting and innovative. Titles include: We Made It, Tears I had to Cry, Party Ain’t A Party, and Bring You Down. While with Cruz, Hollyceasar moved from behind the boards to rapping on other artists’ tracks. Before long, he ventured out as a solo artist. As Hollyceasar, he has performed around the New York area at venues such

as: Ashford & Simpson’s Sugar Bar, the legendary Nuyorican Poets Café, Entertainers, and the Harlem hot spot, Baton Rouge.

Several currently running TV ads feature his jingles and lyrics. His move into this new medium isn’t limited to writing. A true triple threat, White has a busy career as a model and actor. He has been featured on Law & Order: SVU and can be seen and heard rapping on a commercial for Q121. He has modeled for Xposure Modeling and Talent Agency and walked the runway in front of New York visionaries and personalities including BETs Aminah Benjamin. Some of his music can be found on his myspace page: www. myspace.com/5starenterprise and on You Tube under the name Hollyceasar.

InSpire

n over comer who has shaken herself loose from the shackles of poverty, weight gain, and heartbreak. 56-year old Vickie Winans is enjoying the abundant life working hard beyond the average 9-5. It’s no wonder the Detroit native is commonly referred to as the hardest working woman in gospel. “I am grinding from 10 am until 4 am working on everything from handling contract packages, running my jewelry and wig businesses, spending time in the studio, as well as being a wife and mother, said Winans. My schedule is jam packed. She says her work is not challenging just tedious, but she’s having a ball.

The award winning gospel singer began her musical career performing with family at the tender age of eight. In 1985 her debut album “Be Encouraged” was released. Since then she’s had numerous hits ranging from her most noted, “We shall behold Him, “The Rainbow, and “Long as I got King Jesus. Born the seventh of twelve children to a low income family she attributes her success to her strong upbringing. Although her parents weren’t Continued on page p. 37

InSpire

T H E

T H U R G O O D

M A R S H A L L

C O L L E G E

F U N D ,

established in 1987 and named after the first African American Supreme Court Justice, represents 47 public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their 235,000 students located in 22 states, the District of Columbia and the US Virgin Islands. Over the last two decades, TMCF has awarded more than $100 million in leadership development, programmatic and capacity building support,

and

scholarships

students

attending

member

schools.

Thurgood

Marshall College Fund is a 501(c) 3, tax-exempt organization and has a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Four Starâ&#x20AC;? rating by Charity Navigator, the leading independent rating agency for not-for-profit organizations.

CONNECT WITH TMCF

www.twitter.com/tmcf_hbcu tmcfscribe.wordpress.com www.facebook.com/TMCFund

www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. President & CEO Thurgood Marshall College Fund

‘‘ ‘‘ I’m going to let my ways please the Lord and the chips fall where they may

Continued from page p. 35

able to provide a great deal of material things the Bowman family was rich in love. “My mom was the epitome of a mother. She loved each child as if there was only one of us to love, said Winans. Evangelist Mattie Bowman passed away in 2006.

My father was a very diligent man. He was a contractor and brick mason. He taught us to have drive and to be go getters. Winans father is deceased as well.

Although she is extremely busy she still finds time to be with the Lord. It’s like breathing, she says. There is no balancing it’s just a way of life you find time to read some scripture, study time, and to minister. It’s a way of life for me. “I’ve been through so much in my life, she says. “I’ve been sick down to 99 pounds, lost both my parents, two divorces, as well as the loss of her child, Destiny Joy, who was born prematurely. According to Winans her greatest victory has been defeating weight gain, which occurred after the dissolution of her 16 year marriage to Gospel Legend Marvin Winans.

“I gained the bulk of the weight right after I divorced Marvin. I went through a lot. I got ulcers and I was on medication. I was sick from the stress of the divorce. She says although the marriage didn’t work out Marvin is a great person, a fabulous pastor, and father.”

While Winans vocation is also her avocation. She is counting her blessings and lending others a helping hand as well. The bible says to give and it shall be given unto you good measure pressed down shaken together and running over. I give to the poor and donate to charities, shared Winans. “I’m going to let my ways please the Lord and the chips fall where they may, says Winans.

InSpire

She has been victorious in overcoming life’s adversity and encourages others to do the same. She has a show being aired on BET on Sundays entitled “A Time to Laugh and a new single will be released in early August.

Q&A

Kurt! This is a true honor.

IM | You have just released a new CD: “How I Got Over!” What inspired the remake?

VW | I look back at the elders and think wow

they had less than a fourth of what we have and they still found ways to make it. I think about my mom and my dad and so many other elders and they made it over. The very least we can do is our part. I am very excited about the CD. The Cd is doing very well. We put a lot of hard work in to this project.

With Vickie Winans

InSpire was very blessed to spend some time talking with Ms. Winans about her relationship with God her family, etc. Here is some of what she had to say:

IM | Yes. I can tell the video is great! You looked just like your mom.

InSpire (IM) | You have been a solider for God a long time! You have been through a lot? How do you keep your faith strong?

VW | So many people tell me that. My mom and I were very close. I love her and miss her so much. She was my rock!

Vickie Winans (VW) | Yes. I am, a true believer in

God! He has brought me through, even during times when I just could not see my way. Yes. I have been through a lot, but you know, God has been a constant in my life. He has, like his Word, been consistent.

IM | I know that she is looking at you and your siblings and smiling. VW | (Pauses) I know she is.

IM | You are often introduced as the hardest working female gospel artist in the industry. How did that come about?

IM | Speaking of siblings, you come from large family.

VW | There have been and are currently some powerhouse singers in gospel music. I am honored that people view me as the hardest working female gospel artist. I have been very blessed to be able to get out and manage my own businesses and my own music. Of course there are many people who work with me behind the scenes, but for the most part I do what I have to do to do God’s will. What I do is ordered by God, so I am going to give him my very best!

VW | Yes. My siblings and I are very close. We stay in close contact and they know that the love is there. I have my 11 brothers and sisters, (the Bowman family). In 2003 I married, Joe McLemore in Las Vegas. I am so proud to be the mother of hit producers and singers, Mario Winans and Marvin Winans, Jr., and grandmother to Mario Mendell Winans, II, her 10-year old grandson; and my 6-year old granddaughter, Skyler Destiny Winans. I love my family so much.

IM | Wow! That is so powerful. I watch you and I just

IM | I read that Bishop TD Jakes is your mentor.

marvel at what you do and more importantly the spirit with which you do it. You are just so positive! How do you maintain such a positive attitude?

VW | When you are blessed, you have to keep giving what you have to others. All of us are blessed, but some people do not know what to do with their Blessings! I learned a long time ago that all that I have is provided by God. I love to share my blessings. IM | You have received many awards in your life time. How do you feel about now being selected to co-host the Stellars? VW | First and foremost, I do not take anything for granted. I do not assume that I am owed anything. Each day I awake is a blessing. The awards are great. I appreciate each and every one of them. I do not worship the awards. I worship God! It is always an honor to co-host the premiere Gospel Awards Show. There are so many people that could have been invited, but I was selected along with Donnie and

VW | Yes he is. Bishop Jakes is a true man of God and he helps me in my spiritual life as well. He prays for me. I pray for him and he provides wise spiritual guidance. IM | You are truly a blessing to us all. Your music and your personality has captured the hearts and souls of millions. What’s next? VW | Well. I really do not think about it in terms of what’s next. I think about more in terms of living for God. I will keep running and doing His will! “Although I’ve had my share of heartaches, pain, and sickness over the years, I know that God has truly blessed me. It’s because of Him that I have a fantastic family, great friends, and a rewarding career!”

InSpire

100 The Famed

Florida A&M University Marching

Still Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top University Band

Photos by Tony Leavell By Cutina Francis

InSpire

Once upon a time, long, long ago, there sat a hill and on this hill were many other hills. Combined, these great hills held high a Historically Black College University, Florida A&M. Created with warmth, structure and venom was the very first musical, marching band at FAMU in 1892. A special director, P. A. Van Weller, led the band during this time. Soon, crystallizing into perfection, the marching band grew larger and larger.

be the last major accomplishment this wonderful band will achieve. Take a moment and relish in the thought that possesses the reality that this band has accomplished scores of major achievements. For instance, below are a group of exponential attainments accrued by the Worlds famous Marching 100: Super Bowl III

Founded in 1946 and named the Marching 100, the band began with only 16 instruments and expanded to over 350 members. Over the hills and through the trees, stomped courageous, musical talent from members locally and far, far away. The band has been credited for 30 innovative techniques that are now used as standard operating procedures for many high school and collegiate marching band programs throughout the nation. Weller pierced the first stitch into the upbringing and legacy of this mystical band from 1892 until 1898. Thereafter, one by one, a string of special directors had woven together the World’s most notable marching band. Nathaniel C. Adderly led the band from 1910-1918, Leander A. Kirksey from 1930-1945, Dr. William P. Foster from 1945-1998 and Dr. Julian E. White, who led the band from 1998 to the present. Through the forever changing-coarse of life, the Marching 100 lives by a motto, which states, “Qualities to live by to guide our thoughts and to rule our actions/lives:

{

Super Bowl XXXIX Super Bowl XLI

Coca Cola Commercial ABC 20/20 Special CBS 60 Minutes

French Bi-Centennial Parade in Paris

Performance at the American Bandmasters Association annual meeting Performance at Grammy’s with Kanye West

1992-Sports Illustrated declared “100” – Best Marching Band in the Country

}

1993-Presidential Inauguration Parade 1997-Presidential Inauguration Parade

According to a news column on Blackamericaweb.com, regarding the Grammy’s event with Kanye West, the company that chose “100” made stunning remarks about them such as, "We got tapes from a number of groups across the country," said Randy Buzzelli of Phoenix Music Group, the company responsible for West's production. The decision to pick the Marching 100 was based on its precision and showmanship, he said. "We were sold on this band because of their athleticism in marching, and they're over the top," Buzzelli added.

Highest Quality of CHARACTER Achievement in ACADEMICS Attainment in LEADERSHIP Perfection in MUSICIANSHIP Precision in MARCHING Dedication to SERVICE

Subsequently, the diligence in living by this motto must have led to the band receiving the most prestigious award a collegiate marching band could be honored with.

The Louis Sudler Intercollegiate Marching Band Trophy (b.k.a. the Sudler Trophy) was awarded to the Marching 100 Band on October 26, 1984. The John Philip Sousa Foundation administers the selection and presentation of the award. The Sudler Trophy honors “the close historical relationship and outstanding contribution of Intercollegiate Marching Bands to the American way of life.” The Marching 100 was the fourth band in the United States, the first Southern band, the first HBCU band and the first and only in the Mid-Eastern athletic Conference to receive the award. The award is presented every year to recognize a college Marching Band of incomparable worth. No band is eligible for nomination of additional Sudlers after being awarded.

Super Bowl V

Being honored with an esteemed award is not and won’t 49

The band has plenty to offer its future members. Students have the opportunity to attend a summer adventure that will lace them with a plethora of musical knowledge with regard to the band. High school students, whom are interested in becoming apart of the Marching 100, can enroll in the Summer Band Camp at FAMU. The camp was developed in 1990 when it had fewer than 100 members. Apart from the Marching Band, there are three Symphonic Bands (Honor, Orange and Green), two Jazz Bands, a Percussion Ensemble, Keyboard and Electronic music and an ensemble for every instrument. In addition, the camp includes majorettes, dancing girls, drum majors, and flags. The students of the camp shadow to perform with and are taught by the “100” band members.

It could be noted that the band carries a fairytale-like persona; a fairytale so often told and read about. However, one would have to know that the belief upon this mystical Marching Band is one that has been brought to life from those who have and are engaged.

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RABBANI MUHAMMAD A S S O C I AT E S

Architects * Engineers * Construction Managers

RABBANI MUHAMMAD, AIA 905 East Park Avenue Tallahassee, Fl 32301 Office: (850) 681-3914 Fax No: (850) 561-6454

102 W. 116th Street New York, New York 10026 Phone: (212) 663-8622 r.muhammad@att.net

[ man on a mission ]

Rahfeal Gordon

“

Hip Hop Saved

My Life

ahfeal discovered his passion for entertainment while attending Arts High School in Newark, NJ. Drawing on his passion for music as a way to cope with his hardships, Rahfeal recognized the influencing power that music possessed over all people, regardless of their background. “Entertainment is a means for people to escape their daily stresses.” Realizing a simple Friday night escape could become the catalyst for saving one’s life or even a hopeful bridge to another day, Rahfeal founded Infinite Productions at the age of 15. His mission is to “one day provide the world with the release we all sometimes need.”

In 2001, Rahfeal brought the “release” to Montclair State University, establishing an Infinite Productions chapter entitled “Team Infinite”, on campus. In addition to the success of Team Infinite, in 2005, Rahfeal established the Rahfeal C. Gordon Scholarship Fund. The Scholarship is designed to benefit high school and college students with average grades, but exhibit an exceptional business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit.

In the summer of 2007, Rahfeal premiered “Hip Hop Saved My Life” Motivational Seminar on the national performance stage at the New Jersey Performing Arts 52

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Center in Newark, NJ. Ironically, at the age of 14, Rahfeal recalled making a promise to himself while watching New Jersey Performing Arts Center under construction. He vowed, “one day, I will grace the stage of this performance center”. To his surprise, “Hip Hop Saved My Life” played to a sold out audience. Also in 2007, Rahfeal penned his first book entitled “You Won’t Make It”, a collection of motivational lessons that encourage the reader along a path of self-inspiration. The popularity and success of the critically acclaimed work, has prompted educators to use the book as a teaching tool. Each page espouses valuable and comprehensible lessons for students. Rahfeal began 2008 on a high note. Due to the overwhelming response generated from his acclaimed “Hip Hop Saved My Life” Motivational Seminars, Rahfeal attracted the attention of the New Jersey Star-Ledger newspaper. A full-length feature article was written about Rahfeal’s life and his motivation in the Sunday Star-Ledger’s, I am New Jersey profile, entitled “Motivated”. Further, a series of follow-up articles were written about his Motivational Seminars, including a multi-page spread in the Winter/Spring 2008 edition of InSpire Magazine.

Continuing to ride on a high note in early 2008, Rahfeal was selected by The National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE), as a winner of the 2008 Global Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in the Oppenheimer Funds Social Entrepreneurship Award category. As the Award winner, he was featured on the Fox News Channel’s, “Money for Breakfast”. Also, as an alumni member of the NFTE Program, he joined an illustrious group of peers as Global Ambassador for the NFTE Organization, which supports programs in 21 States and13 Countries. The Ambassadors were selected by NFTE Mentors.

Rahfeal’s inspirational work continues to bring him to the attention of many notables. Among many, he has appeared on My 9 News, “Real Talk” with Brenda Blackmon and “Voices of America”, which is an international news broadcaster. He has also been appointed as a National Collegiate Advisor for InSpire Magazine and serves on the Hip Hop Advisory Board at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Rahfeal’s ambitions have guided him to aspire to a new goal. He has launched a propitious campaign to be featured on The Oprah Show, showcasing his Motivational work.

[ youth ]

Aariel R. Munroe born on 3/13/1989 in Gainesville, FL. She is a graduate of Rickard’s High School and currently attends FAMU, Tallahassee, FL. Aariel is determined to be a certified public accountant because of her love of math. Aariel enjoys serving the community, playing soccer, and modeling. She is excited about attending the January 2009 Presidential Inaugural celebration. She plans to represent not only herself, but the strength of the family and community.

InSpire

let your haters

be your By Earlena Boswell

motivators m a k i n g i t s wa y a r o u n d t h e c o u n t r y

e drove around in his new wine colored 2011 Lexus SUV and his chocolate brown Armani suit. She clutched her ivory and satin black Chanel purse. They live in a huge mansion with housekeepers and world renowned cooks. Both their jobs pay nothing less than 20,000 dollars and their kids are succeeding at everything they conquer. Their marriage is overly blissful but there is always someone who is going to have something negative to say like, “She’s thinks she’s all that”, “he is such a show off, “their marriage will be over in less than one year”. People who say those things and have those personal views have earned a special name for themselves “Haters”. These are people who always have negative thoughts and statements about certain everyday people who are just blessed beyond measures. Everyone has heard the statement “Haters make the world go round” which is somewhat fact.

Dr. Lee Jones professor and editor and Chief for InSpire Magazine set out to create a mini movie that dealt with many reasons why people hate. “Let your haters be Your Motivators”, this movie was develop from Dr. Lee Jones famous speech he wrote in 2006 that has been read across the nation. Jones developed the top ten reasons why people hate on each other. The mini movie focuses on eight main characters, Dr. Lee Jones the professor and motivator, Attorney Angela Stewart the successful lawyer, Mr. Derrick Johnson the standout college football

player, Jasmin Bates the dedicated to service sorority girl, Charles Cannon, Malik James the aspiring actor, Donna Shields, and Anthony Stewart.

All of these particular characters are trying to thrive in each of their different ventures of life. Unfortunately they run into some negative people along the road to their success. Aspiring actor Muhammad “Muja” Mujahid plays Malik James an actor who has rose through the ranks to achieve national acclaim, says he took pleasure in making the mini movie.

“I enjoyed making the film it was definitely a chance for me to showcase my acting skills,” Mujahid said. He also went on to tell how he believe the movie meant perseverance and overcoming obstacles such like the ones in his life. “I learned to always stay positive and you have to satisfy yourself, you can’t live your life for other people,” Mujahid said. His character Malik has his mind set on becoming a well known and respected actor even despite the setbacks.

“I learn through this movie that you have to satisfy yourself life for other people,” Mujhid exclaimed. Just like Mujhid other actors in the film thought the mini movie was in reality art acting out life.

Vontrell Randall a future Criminal lawyer portrays the character Attorney Angela Stewart a very successful lawyer who was face with vast amount of negativity on her job. Randall says that her character really hit home for her. “For me the role was real because it was something I had experience on a previous job,” Randall said. She also stated that the movie was unique because her character was hated on by both men and women.

“Women usually are hated on by other women but my character had to face 57

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negativity with both sexes because of her success, but she learned that even though people are negative around you, you have to move on with life,” Randall exclaimed.

“I believe that jealously played a major roll in the development of my character, which in real life people who hate on others is usually jealous,” Rush explained.

Randall also said, “that she has learned through out life and through making this movie that there is no need for a confrontation if someone hates on you.”

Rush said he is totally opposite that of his character but he has had a lot of haters in life.

“I believe that everyone is hated on at some point, I’ve had a lot of people hate on me,” Rush said. “I might be able to even write a book on haters from all the negative people who have tried to stop me or bring me down”.

“In the mist of hate you don’t have to acknowledge it, just continue to be doing you” Randall exclaimed.

In Dr. Jones’s “Ten reasons why people hate” one of the lines says “Haters are people who typically do not understand their purpose for their lives, thus they are very uncomfortable with themselves”. Many of the actors in the movie say they agreed with Jones’s reasons.

Rush also talked about how the movie showed how people are always focusing on what they don’t have so much to the point they might miss out on their blessing.

Dr. Lee Jones, Director of the mini movie says that he just played the role that he’s plays in real life a professor and mentor.

“As humans many times we really don’t realize when we are doing negative things, so most of the time people don’t realize when they hate on someone,” Randall said.

“I played the role of a professor and I gave advice to my student on how to cope with haters,” Jones exclaimed.

Joie Noire Davis, a pre kindergarten teacher and inspiring actor whom plays the character of Jasmine Franklin a driven college student who is very successful. She is apart of a sorority that her grandmother founded. She wanted to see the sorority grow but her line sister only wanted to step and party.

Jones also said that he too has had his share with negative people formerly known as “Haters.”

“When I reflected upon my life in generally speaking, I can say I have had my fair share of haters and basically I have learned that sometimes you have to be like eagles, fly high and alone, “Jones stated.

“My character basically wanted to see the sorority that her grandmother started go back its traditional ways but my line sister where always negative they never wanted to see growth in the organization,” Davis said.

He also went on to say that what drove him to make the mini movie was the negativity that is lingering in the black community. “One thing I wanted was to get the word out about “hating”, I wanted there to be more discussion about why our community has so much negativity,” Jones said. Other actors in the movie said they agreed with Jones.

Davis said that the movie reminded her of the old saying about the crabs in the bucket. Davis explained “The more you try to climb to the top, the more you will have someone trying bring you down with the.”

“Just continue to do what you do because haters and let your haters be your motivators, let that push you to succeed” Davis said. So when that person is saying negative things to you or bringing you down, just remember let your hater be your motivators.

The movie not only had points of view coming from the person who was being hated on but also it showed the point of view from a hater.

Deron Rush an enrollment counselor for the University of Phoenix online played the role as Deron Terrell a washed up football player who brought other players who were succeeding in the sport down.

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applied.physics.lsa.umich.edu

Applied Physics is an interdisciplinary Ph.D. program that bridges physics with emerging technologies Michigan has a distinguished record of innovation in Applied Physics. With a broad range of multidisciplinary research and access to the most advanced facilities, the program offers a dynamic environment for graduate training. Structured to meet individual goals, our curriculum allows research training blending the discipline of physics with engineering, medicine, chemistry, geology, environmental science and natural resources. The University of Michigan Applied Physics Program is committed to a leading role in this endeavor. Current projects include nanoscience and technology, condensed matter and materials physics, plasma physics, chemical physics, optics, atomic and molecular physics, biophysics, photonics, quantum electronics and information, synchrotron radiation and ultrafast science. Our graduates are highly sought after to fill leadership positions in research, industry, academia and government. Have a look at our website and discover why the opportunities for bridging science and technology have never been more exciting. http://www-applied.physics.lsa.umich.edu/

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Visit WWW.NFBPA.ORG

140 Years of Leadership • Over 70% of Fisk graduates go on to attend graduate and professional schools • A recent National Science Foundation study revealed that Fisk graduates more African Americans who go on to earn a PhD in the natural sciences than any college or university in the nation • Nearly 10% of Fisk’s Class of 2006 qualified for the Phi Beta Kappa National Honor Society 60 • For the fifteenth consecutive year, Fisk has been included amongInSpire the “Best 361 Colleges” as selected by the Princeton Review

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InSpire Awards

2009

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ATTORNEY DWAYNE MURRAY Dwayne M. Murray, Esq. was sworn into office on July 14, 2007 as the 31st International Grand Polemarch of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., during its 78th Grand Chapter Meeting held in Minneapolis, MN. ATTORNEY AT LAW - Dwayne M. Murray, Esq. is an active and visible attorney, residing and practicing in Baton Rouge, LA. He is experienced business reorganization and insolvency lawyer and the first African American appointed to the Chapter 7 Panel of Trustees for Region 5, Louisiana and Mississippi. Currently he is serving his 15th term Attorney Murray has amassed a stellar record in bankruptcy law, and has been recognized by his peers at local, state and national levels, and has represented debtors, creditors, financial institutions, parties to executory contracts and unexpired leases, purchasers of assets, secured creditors, unsecured creditors, banking institutions, credit unions and bankruptcy estates. He is on the faculty of Southern University Law Center and the U.S. Trustee’s National Bankruptcy Institute. He is a board member of the National Association of Bankruptcy Trustees and is often sought out in complex bankruptcy matters. Murray is affiliated with the National Bar Association, Louisiana State Bar Association, American Bankruptcy Institute, Louis A. Martinet Legal Society, Baton Rouge

TOP 40 INS

Bar Association, and the United States District Courts for the Middle, Eastern and Western Districts of Louisiana. He attends St. Jude Catholic Church and is a pass member of the St. Jude Advisory Board. Other associations include, Kappa Phi Kappa Professional Education Fraternity (former National Legal Counsel), Phi Mu Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity and the Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Murray served four years as a member of the Grand Board of Directors and as Chairman of the Grand Board of Appeals. He was elected Senior Grand Vice Polemarch in 2003 and reelected in 2005. He served as chairman of the Council of Province Polemarchs for four years. EDUCATION - He holds the Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and obtained the Juris Doctorate from the Southern University Law Center. VISIONARY - Dwayne M. Murray has demonstrated a commitment to young children as exhibited through the creation of Kappa Kamp a national service program of Kappa Alpha Psi; Presentation of “Kappa’s Commitment” a promise to the fraternity that will provide the frame work for a business plan through the Centennial Celebration and beyond,etc.

INS PIR E M PIRE RS AG AZI NE

DR. ALEC GALLIMORE DR. ALEC D. GALLIMORE is an Arthur F. Thurnau Professor and is a Professor of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Michigan where he directs the Plasmadynamics and Electric Propulsion Laboratory. Professor Gallimore is also an Associate Dean at the Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies where he serves as the Graduate School liaison to twenty-five graduate programs and departments in engineering, the physical sciences, and mathematics. Professor Gallimore is also on the faculty of the Applied Physics program at Michigan, is the director of the NASA-funded Michigan Space Grant Consortium, and is project director of the NSF-funded Michigan AGEP grant. He received his B.S. in Aeronautical Engineering from Rensselaer, and his M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Aerospace Engineering from Princeton. His primary research interests include electric propulsion, plasma diagnostics, space/re-entry plasma simulation, use of plasma for energy production and environmental remediation, and nano-particle physics. He has experience with a wide array of electric propulsion technologies including Hall thrusters, ion thrusters, arcjets, RF plasma sources, 100-kW-class steady MPD thrusters, and MW-level quasi-steady MPD thrusters. Professor Gallimore has implemented a variety of probe, microwave, and optical/laser plasma diagnostics. The author of over 240 journal and conference papers on electric propulsion

and plasma physics, Professor Gallimore has been the recipient of a number of University of Michigan prizes including the Exemplary Diversity Engagement Award in 2009, the Trudy Huebner Service Excellence Award in 2005, the Harold R. Johnson Diversity Service Award in 2005, and the Outstanding Accomplishment Award in Aerospace Engineering in 2002. He received the Best Paper in Electric Propulsion Award for work presented at the 1998 Joint Propulsion Conference, and the Outstanding Achievement in Academia Award from the National GEM Consortium in 2004. Professor Gallimore has graduated 23 Ph.D. students and 12 MS students. Some of his former Ph.D. students are now faculty members at Michigan (2), Georgia Tech, Michigan Tech, Missouri University of Science and Technology at Rolla, and Central Michigan University. Professor Gallimore serves on the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Electric Propulsion Technical Committee and is an Associate Fellow of AIAA. Professor Gallimore is an Associate Editor for the Journal of Propulsion and Power and has served on a number of advisory boards for NASA and the Department of Defense including the United States Air Force Scientific Advisor Board (AFSAB). He was awarded the Decoration for Meritorious Civilian Service in 2005 for his work on the AFSAB. He is co-founder of ElectroDynamic Applications, Inc. (EDA), a high-tech aerospace firm in Ann Arbor, MI that specializes in plasma device engineering.

ATTORNEY SEAN PITTMAN Sean Pittman is one of the most exceptional legal minds working within the environs of the State Capitol and the State of Florida today. Noted as one of the top twenty-five most influential people in Tallahassee, Florida by the Tallahassee Democrat, Sean Pittman is known to be one of the most thoughtful political analysts who possess “a valuable ability to cut through the muddle and articulate what’s really in play.” Florida Trend Magazine has labeled Sean Pittman the “One to look for” in the new wave of politics in Florida. Attorney Pittman has also been featured in the

Tallahassee Democrat article, “Capitol Clout”, as a significant political insider alongside former House Speaker John Thrasher and former Republican Party Chair Al Cardenas. In December 2006, he was named to Governor-Elect Charlie Crist’s Transition Team, and in 2007 he was appointed to the Board of Directors for Hancock Bank of Florida. Attorney Pittman received his Bachelor of Science degree from Florida State University in 1990, where he served as Student Body President and two-time Chairman of the Florida Student Association Board of Directors.

In 1994, Sean earned his Juris Doctorate degree from The Florida State University-College of Law and was appointed by Governor Lawton Chiles to serve on the Florida Board of Regents. His alma mater, then, honored him with the “Sean Pittman Leadership Award” which is given to the outstanding student leader at the President's annual Leadership Awards Night. Attorney Pittman was honored with a seat on the Miami Herald Legislative Ranking Committee that annually ranks member performance of the Florida House and Senate, and is generally regarded as an “expert” in the legislative process. His service on the Miami Herald Legislative Ranking Committee has given him direct access to many legislators who care about the outcome of the process. Attorney Pittman has been heavily involved in state government over the past 15 years as chief lobbyist for the Florida Student Association, Member of the Florida Board of Regents and Presidential Search Committees for Florida State University, University of Central Florida, and Florida Gulf Coast University. He served as law clerk to House Speaker Peter Rudy Wallace and Tallahassee Mayor John Marks (Past Chair of the Public Service Commission); staffer to Governor Lawton Chiles; attorney and assistant to the Secretary of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation; and staff attorney to the Florida House of Representatives, under the leadership of House Speaker John Thrasher. Sean Pittman has worked on, weighed in, or been instrumental in several issues, including; Education through governors appointment to the Florida Board of Regents and years of lobbying for the Florida Student Association, Environmental through work with the Florida Preservation 2000 Legislation and Rights to Farm issue, Telecommunication through work on the wireless 911 legislation, Utility through potential deregulation legislation and tax relief for manufactured gas, Criminal Justice through work on the felony restoration of rights legislation, and more. His extensive legislative background, including both public and private, has lead to his vast knowledge of the process and a valuable historic perspective related to “getting things done” on the hill. Attorney Pittman’s experience with governmental affairs has also afforded him the opportunity to serve as a Political Consultant to various state and local campaigns, and President of The Pittman Law Group, PL. Pittman Law Group, P.L. was established in 2001. The primary practice of the firm is legislative and administrative. The firm consists of staff attorneys and administrative positions that provide support to the firm’s legal and lobbying clients. Since its inception, Attorney Pittman has developed a reputation as a hard-working, bright, resourceful thinker among political and legislative insiders. He has also developed working and personal relationships with many key leaders and their staff in our state. Through the firm’s (PLG) Administrative Law Division, Attorney Pittman won a land mark decision securing the state’s first occupational license to an ex-felon whose civil rights were yet to be restored. Pittman Law Group has represented business clients before the Division of Administrative Hearing (DOAH) and

several state boards. Through diligence and hard work, Pittman Law Group has become the proud recipients of the Small Business of the Year Award 2007-2008 presented by the Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce for its outstanding contribution to the Leon County area and the 2008-2009 Small Business of the Year award presented by the FAMU Small Business Development Council. In addition to his legal and lobbying efforts, Sean serves as a co-host for the exceedingly popular north Florida political talk show, “The Usual Suspects.” The Usual Suspects airs on the CBS Network and is broadcast in 27 counties across north Florida and south Georgia. Sean has interviewed various national and state political figures, such as, Governor Jeb Bush, U.S. Senator Mel Martinez, and Congressman Allen Boyd, to name a few. The Usual Suspects can be seen every Sunday morning at 11am Eastern Standard Time. Attorney Pittman is also a member of the Fedex Orange Bowl Committee, a graduate of Leadership Tallahassee, a graduate of Leadership Florida, serves as Chair of Children Home Society of Florida, member of the Florida Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division, National Bar Association, University Center Board of Governors, United Way of the Big Bend Board of Directors, Seminole Torchbearers Board of Directors, Burning Spear, Inc.(Founding Member), Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Sigma Pi Phi Boule Fraternity, Board Member and Vice Chair of the Leon County Civic Center Authority Board, Board Member of Capital City Chamber of Commerce, Board member of Kids Incorporated, member of the Executive Board of Directors for the Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, member of Seminole Boosters Board of Directors, Co-Chairman of the Children Home Society Resource Development Council, Vice-Chairman of the Seminole Boosters’ Inner Council, and FSU Boosters Golden Chief. Mr. Pittman actively participates in governmental activities on behalf of clients involved with legislative and executive branch issues. As an established and trusted lawyer and lobbyist, Sean’s experiences over the last fifteen years demonstrate his ability to produce results within Florida’s policy making process. Undoubtedly, his service on numerous Boards, and community and civic organizations illustrate the trust his fellow colleagues and Florida leaders have in his abilities.

MR. LARRY FRASIER Larry Frasier is the Grand Polaris of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. On September 19, 1963, at Morgan State College (now Morgan State University), 12 students founded what is now the nation’s fifth largest, predominately African-American social service fraternity: The Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Incorporated ®. The Honorable founders of Iota Phi Theta® were: Albert Hicks, Lonnie Spruill, Jr., Charles Briscoe, Frank Coakley, John Slade, Barron Willis, Webster Lewis, Charles Brown, Louis Hudnell, Charles Gregory, Elias Dorsey, Jr., and Michael Williams. Based upon their ages, heightened responsibilities, and increased level of maturity, this group had a slightly differ-

ent perspective than the norm for college students. It was this perspective from which they established the Fraternity’s purpose, “The development and perpetuation of Scholarship, Leadership, Citizenship, Fidelity, and Brotherhood among Men.” Additionally, they conceived the Fraternity’s motto, “Building a Tradition, Not Resting Upon One!” Today, Iota Phi Theta® consists of over 250 chapters located in 40 States, the District of Columbia and the Republic of Korea. The scope of the organization extends throughout the nation, from California to New York; from Wyoming to Florida; and from Wisconsin to The...

MR. PAUL L. GRIFFIN Paul L. Griffin, Jr. a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, hails from Desoto, Texas, a suburb of Dallas, Texas, where he resides with his wife Belinda. Their younger daughter, Shannon, is a junior year at Hampton University in Virginia majoring in Business. Their older daughter, Ashley, is a graduate of President Griffin’s alma mater, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas. There, Paul obtained his Bachelor and Masters degrees in 1979 and 1983, respectively. It was also at T.S.U. that Paul became a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in 1975. Professionally, Paul serves as Vice President, Strategic Accounts at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing

Company, a global PreK-12 education company. Paul has been employed with the company since 1995. He has the responsibility to help develop and implement successful strategies to market and sell the company’s products to urban school districts in major cities across the country. He brings a strong business acumen, knowledge of major urban centers, an outstanding history of service to his Fraternity and his community, a dedication to scholarship and opportunities for individual advancement through quality education and a love of people. He is an effective team-builder and leader, who brings much energy, excitement and commitment to the responsibilities of International President, the chief executive officer of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. of which he now serves.

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DR. CALVIN MACKIE Former Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Tulane University Managing Partner, Channel ZerO Group, LLC President and CEO, ResCom Energy Savers, LLC Former Member, Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) Chair, Louisiana Council on the Social Status of Black Boys and Men International Speaker, Author, Inventor, Former Professor and Entrepreneur. Dr. Calvin Mackie is an award winning mentor, an internationally renowned motivational speaker, and a successful entrepreneur. His message as a mentor, speaker, and entrepreneur continues to transcend race, gender, ethnicity, religion, and time. After starting college in remedial reading because of weak SAT scores, Calvin Mackie earned a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech and a B.S. in Mathematics from Morehouse College in 1990, a M.S. in 1992 and the Ph.D. in 1996 in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech. Following graduation he joined the faculty at Tulane University where he pursued research related to heat transfer, fluid dynamics, energy efficiency and renewable energy. In 2002, he was promoted to Associate Professor with tenure. Mackie’s eleven year academic career ended in June 2007, when Tulane University disbanded the engineering school in response to financial hardship induced by Hurricane Katrina. A professional speaker, in 1992 he co-founded the Channel ZerO Group (CZG) LLC, an educational and motivational consulting company and has presented to numerous civic, educational institutions and Fortune 500 corporations. Mackie is nationally known for his ability to address and present technical information to non-technical audiences. In 2004 – 2005, he was a visiting professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Michigan. In 2006, Mackie co-founded ResCom Energy Savers, LLC (ResCom). ResCom is an energy and engineering consulting company that specializes in

energy management, HVAC, & indoor air quality services and training, building inspection services, and pipe flow & pump design and analysis. A member of the Phi Beta Kappa, Pi Tau Sigma and Tau Beta Pi National Engineering Honor Societies, his passion for scholarship is well established. While pursuing his doctorate degree, he served as an instructor of mathematics at Morehouse College. Committed to community service, Mackie is an active member of the National Speaker Association and the 100 Black Men of Metro New Orleans. Mackie has won numerous awards including the 2003 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring in a White House Ceremony, 2002 Black Engineer of the Year Award for College Level Educator, 2002 New Orleans Data News Weekly Trailblazer Award, and the Pi Tau Sigma/ASME Excellence in Teaching Award in Mechanical Engineering for 2000 and 2002. In November 1999, he received a patent on a device to retrofit luggage stowbins on 737 and 757 Boeing commercial airliners. Following the catastrophic Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, former Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco appointed Dr. Mackie to the thirty-three member board, the Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA), the guiding agency to lead the state's rebuilding efforts. Possessing instant social, political, cultural, and technical credibility, Mackie was featured prominently on the HBO world premier of Spike Lee’s Katrina documentary entitled “When The Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Parts”, and has appeared on numerous national and local news shows including the PBS News Hour with Jim Lehrer, and the Tom Joyner Morning Show. Mackie received international acclaim during and after a recent visit to the country of Kuwait as an ambassador of the LRA and the guest of the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait, appearing on Good Morning Kuwait and in numerous international Arab newspapers.

In 2008, Dr. Mackie was accepted in the inaugural class of Fellows in the Effective Leadership Program of the Center for Leadership and Public Values at Duke University and the College of Business of Southern University. The program focuses on the theory and personal application of “transformative” leadership principles. The fellows study under the tutelage of James A. Joseph, former United States Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa (1996-2000). In 2009, Louisiana Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu

appointed Dr. Mackie to the Louisiana Council on the Social Status of Black Boys and Black Men. As chair, he is leading the state’s effort to create policy and programs to positively impact the quality of life of Black males and families in Louisiana. He is the author of the book: “A View from the Roof: Lessons for Life and Business”. His second book, “At My Grandma’s Knee: A Gathering of Feminine Wisdom and Proverbs”, will be published in the Fall of 2009. Dr. Mackie is a devoted husband to his wife, Tracy, and father to his two sons, Myles Ahmad and Mason Amir.

DR. JOSE ANTONIO AVILES Dr. Jose Antonio Aviles was born and raised in Coney Island, Brooklyn New York. His parents Mirta and Julio Aviles were the first generation to come over from Puerto Rico. Dr. Aviles came from humble beginnings growing up in the projects and on well fare for a time. Dr. Aviles graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School where he was an all-city performer at wide receiver for the Lincoln Railsplitters who were finalist in the Public School Athletic League. Dr. Aviles then attended Ramapo College where he pledged for Lambda Sigma Upsilon Latino Fraternity Incorporated. Dr. Aviles transferred to Kean University where he received his B.A. in Sociology. He earned his M.A. in Educational Administration from St. Peters College and his Doctorate in Educational Administration from Seton Hall University. Dr. Aviles began his teaching career in Newark N.J. working in McKinley and Luis Munoz Marin Middle schools. He was Vice Principal of West Side High School for three years during this time influ-

encing many students to achieve more dispite many violent obstacles in their path. Dr. Aviles first became principal at South Amboy Middle/High School where he raised the High School Proficiency Assessment in both Language Arts and Mathematics an average of twenty percent age points in two years. Dr. Aviles is currently principal of Barringer High School which is the third oldest high school in the Nation and the first in New Jersey. Baringer High School is the largest high school in Newark serving over 1700 students. A school with a poor reputation of underachieving in recent years, Dr. Aviles is determined to influence the students of Barringer High School to excel despite the many socio-economic obstacles that stand in his way. Dr, Aviles understands that we can only measure our Nation’s progress by it’s lowest performing schools this is were our work must begin and end. Dr. Aviles is married to Lizmaris Mantilla-Aviles together have a 6 year old daughter Talayeh whose love has been his foundation and the reason to go out and Inspire others.

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DR. MARC LAMONT Dr. Marc Lamont Hill is one of the leading hip-hop generation intellectuals in the country. His work, which covers topics such as hip-hop culture, politics, sexuality, education and religion, has appeared in numerous journals, magazines, books, and anthologies. Dr. Hill has lectured widely and provides regular commentary for media outlets like NPR, Washington Post, Essence Magazine, and New York Times. He is currently a political contributor for Fox News Channel, where he appears regularly on programs such as The O’Reilly Factor, Huckabee, and Hannity. Prior to joining Fox News, Dr. Hill was a regular guest on CNN, MSNBC, and CourtTV. A nationally syndicated columnist, his writing appears weekly in Metro Newspapers. His awardwinning daily blog is updated on his website, www.MarcLamontHill.com. In Fall 2009, he joined the faculty of Columbia University as Associate Professor of Education and Anthropology at Teachers College. Since his days as a youth in Philadelphia, Dr. Hill has been a social justice activist and organizer. He is a founding board member of My5th, a non-profit organization devoted to educating youth about their legal rights

and responsibilities. Dr. Hill also works closely with the ACLU Drug Reform Project, focusing on drug informant policy. In addition to his political work, Dr. Hill continues to work directly with African American and Latino youth. In 2001, he started a literacy project that uses hip-hop culture to increase school engagement and reading skills among high school students. He also continues to organize and teach adult literacy courses for high school dropouts in Philadelphia and Camden. In 2005, Ebony Magazine named him one of America’s top 30 Black leaders under 30 years old. Dr. Hill is the author of Beats, Rhymes, and Classroom Life: Hip-Hop Pedagogy, and the Politics of Identity and the co-editor of Media, Learning, and Sites of Possibility and The Anthropology of Education Reader. He is currently completing two manuscripts: Knowledge of Self: Race, Masculinity, and the Politics of Reading; and You Ain’t Heard It From Me: Snitching, Rumors and Other People’s Business in Hip-Hop America. Trained as an anthropologist of education, Dr. Hill holds a Ph.D. (with distinction) from the University of Pennsylvania. His research focuses on the intersections between youth culture, identity,and education.

DR. VERNON J. HURTE Mr. Antonio Leroy is the son of Julia Davis and James Leroy. He was born on October 20, 1973, and raised in Albany, Georgia. He attended the Dougherty County School System and graduated from Monroe Comprehensive High School. While matriculating from Monroe High, Leroy stood out as a student athlete. He was All-American in football and wrestling. In these sports he won state titles in 1991, 1992 & 1993. Leroy also volunteered in afterschool programs while attending high school. Upon graduating in 1993, Leroy received an Academic/Athletic scholarship to attend Albany State University. As a student athlete, Leroy set numerous records as a running back with the Golden Rams football team while

receiving his degree in the area of Health/Physical Education and Recreation. Some of his records include; 1996 All Time Leading Rusher in the history of Albany State University with 5,152 and 60 rushing TD’s, and 4th All Time Leading Rusher in history of Division II Football. In addition, Leroy was named Player of the Year for Division II 1995 & 1996, Athlete of the Year, SIAC Running Back of the Year, SIAC Player of the Year and 100% Wrong Club Most Valuable Player in 1993, 1994, 1995 & 1996. Also, Leroy received the Marine Corp Leadership Award in New York City, New York in 1996 and runner up to the Eddie Robertson “Spirit Award” in Los Angeles, California in 1996. Another highlight in Leroy’s career was his participation with Tampa Bay Buccaneers Football Camp in 1996-97. Currently, Leroy coordinates the Center for the

African-American Male at Albany State University, and serves as a mentor for many young men in Dougherty and surrounding counties. Leroy received a share of the “Legacy Award” for having the best gang prevention program in the country because of his work in mentoring and gang prevention in 2002 at a conference in Jacksonville,

student athlete for records he set 10 years ago that are still used as a standard for running backs on the Golden Rams team. Leroy has participated and collaborated with countless programs and conferences throughout the Southeastern part of the country. With a strong background in Health Education, Mentoring and Leadership training, Leroy’s life is for him to live and the world to share. He is the proud father of two sons, Antonio II & Akilies. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Albany, Georgia Chapter. His take on life is simple, “We can’t change the course of the wind, but we can change the course of our Sail”.

Florida. In 2002, he was awarded a certificate of appreciation for his involvement in “Promoting Good Health Practices” in the University System of Georgia. In 2005, Leroy became a member of National Area II League South Georgia Wildcats as a fullback and linebacker. In addition, on April 24, 2006, Leroy was inducted into the Albany Sports Hall of Fame in the Class of 2006. On Saturday, October 14, 2006, Albany State University honored Leroy for his accomplishments as a

MS. MARY H. MCDANIEL Mary H. McDaniel has been respected and honored by colleagues and peers for her business acumen, integrity and performance. She currently serves as Vice President of Aircraft Material, after serving as Vice President of Material and Corporate Sourcing at FedEx Express for 5 years. Prior to becoming VP, McDaniel held positions of increasing responsibility in various divisions such as station manager, senior manager of acquisitions and contracts, Managing Director of Air Operations Division/Supply Chain Logistics. As the only female Vice President in air operations, she manages aircraft parts inventory and technical support for the FedEx global fleet. With a multi-million dollar annual operating budget and more than 500 employees and contractors, McDaniel supports over 1,000 stations and 10 air express hubs worldwide. She also manages a $1.4 billion supply chain of aircraft parts. During her 29-year career with the company, she has helped FedEx

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maintain its reputation as one of the most innovative and respected companies in the world. McDaniel’s strong passion for community service is reflected in a number of outreach initiatives. An alumnus of Southwest Tennessee Community College, she was recently appointed to the position of Vice Chair of the Board of Foundations for the institution. She also serves on the boards of Inner-City Scouting, Leadership Memphis, and the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. She is a member of The Links, Inc., Shelby County Chapter. Her professional affiliations include board memberships with CAPS Research, Women in Aviation, and the International Aviation Women’s Association. Her stellar accomplishments have earned her many awards. McDaniel is frequently called upon to share business and community involvement insight with women and minority entrepreneurs, as well as provide career guidance and support to local youth.

S R E R I P S IN

Youth Education and Employment Success Center

Vision Statement

The Youth Education and Employment Success (Ye2s) Center seeks to improve measurably the quality of life of Newark youth by expanding their educational, vocational, and employment opportunities. Under a unified collaboration among the City of Newark, Newark public schools, Communities In Schools of New Jersey, New Jersey Juvenile Justice Commission, The Nicholson Foundation, Rutgers University, and numerous community-based organizations, this innovative center is strategically located and organized to ensure a safe environment, with optimal delivery of youth services. Through the commitment and teamwork of our instructors, staff, and community partners, we are dedicated to helping our young adults to become more caring, competent, and contributing citizens of the City of Newark.

Misson Statement The Ye2s Center provides the highest quality opportunities for lifelong learning and career development by building bridges between the needs of disconnected young people and individual and integrated delivery of counseling, training, and placement services. Each of our community partners is dedicated to supporting participants through personal commitment and advocacy. With customer service as our focus, we will define and locate educational, employment, and outreach opportunities for our current and future participants. On a citywide, collaborative basis, we will deliver positive youth development programs and services that add measurable and marketable skills to our young people and the organizations that will be collaborating as partners.

For more information, call Rutgers T.E.E.M. Gateway at 973-353-1957, or visit youthsuccesscenter.org Photo credits (l. to r.): Ken Karamichael, Arthur Paxton, and CISNJ.

Youth Success Center of Newark 200 Washington Street, Newark, NJ 07101 Phone: 973.353.1957 yescenter@njaes.rutgers.edu

MS. LORENE K. ROBINSON Lorene K. Robinson Lorene K. Robinson is a native of Dover, Delaware and currently serves as Director of Alumni Affairs at her alma mater, Delaware State University. She began her career at DSU in 1980 as an assistant director and editor of the monthly newsletters, quarterly magazine and managed a variety of alumni outreach events, initiatives, and programs. Lorene maintained her role as assistant director or alumni affairs at DSU for nine years. In the 10th year she was promoted to associate director. On the heels of the long-awaited promotion, Lorene immediately moved on to another institution, Wesley College, where she advanced to Director of Alumni Relations and the Annual Fund. She enjoyed a five-year tenure at Wesley, where she was able to head a Parents’ association, advise a student organization and chair two major, high-profile programs; capacities in which she excelled and continued to grow as a professional. After serving five successful years, Lorene returned to her alma mater, in 1995, to advance the work began in her former capacity there. Of the myriad functions and roles her professional life has imparted, Lorene has most enjoyed working in direct contact

with colleagues and students; especially students. In the early years, one of her responsibilities was the management of a student alumni organization, a job she loved. Several of her student mentees went on to assume roles as student leaders and, later, as executives in the workforce. A true proponent of higher education and mentoring, Lorene has been blessed through her work in the institutional advancement field to interact with hundreds of students and several colleagues who have, in turn, enriched her life. “It is rewarding connecting with people and especially young people.” says Lorene, “Seeing the light emitted from the eyes, of one who realizes they can reach for and achieve a goal…discern just how brilliant they really are…makes it all worthwhile; makes it all golden.” “When someone comes to you, years later, prosperous and healthy and happy,” she adds, “…and they remember who you are and, maybe, a little lesson shared…that’s a blessing. This is what life is all about.” Lorene is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Theta Zeta Zeta Chapter in Dover, where she has held several positions and currently serves as advisor to the Zeta Amicae of Dover, an auxiliary of the sorority.

MS. SHERYL UNDERWOOD Sheryl Underwood (born October 28, 1963) is an American comedian. In 1989, Underwood became the Miller Lite Comedy Search’s first female finalist. She currently hosts BET’s Comic View and has her own BET show, Holla. She has won a number of high profile comedy competitions including Johnny Walker Red, Funniest Woman at the Improv, Old English Comedy Crunch and BET’s Comic View’s Funniest Female Comedian. In 1995 Underwood was named 1st runner-up in the Bay Area Black Comedy Competition, securing Sheryl a place in history

as the first female comedian- in fact, the only comedian- to place in the competition’s final round three years in a row”. She is known in the industry as a “sexually progressive, Godfearing, staunch, black Republican”. College educated, she holds a Bachelor Degree and two Master Degrees and once served in the Armed Forces. She chartered a graduate chapter of Zeta Phi Beta in Oakland, California. She is a member and key official of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc and holds the position of Chair of the National Executive Board with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

INS PIRE TOP RS 40

ATTORNEY PITTMAN DR. CHARLESSEAN CURRY Dr. Charles T. Curry was born in Syracuse, New York in 1949. Dr. Curry’s work ethic, tenacity and Faith in God were instilled in him, early on, by his hardworking parents. They were also paramount in driving home the importance of Education and the pursuit of your dreams. They taught Dr. Curry that when things get difficult, stay determined and succeed. Don’t let anyone tell you or stop you from succeeding whether in school or in your profession. Dr. Curry’s parents have passed away but their strong beliefs are still paramount in the way he conducts his life. He has also instilled these same values in his own children. During High School, Dr. Curry lettered in basketball, made the Honor Roll and was a Student Representative on the Student Government Council. Dr. Curry was fortunate to have an accounting teacher, Paul Converse who encouraged him to pursue a career in accounting after graduation in 1968. Dr. Curry enrolled at a Community College, majoring in Business and soon transferred to LeMoyne College in Syracuse, New York to complete his degree. While at LeMoyne, he became Treasurer of the Black Cultural Society. Dr. Curry graduated from LeMoyne in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. Following graduation, Dr. Curry accepted a position with a public accounting firm (Peat, Marwick, Mitchell) in Syracuse, New York, where he worked for two years. He then accepted a position as Senior Internal Auditor at Syracuse University, which was the beginning of his career in Higher Education. While at Syracuse, he received his Masters Degree in Business Administration. He then became the Assistant Director of Student Data Systems, managing daily operations of an on-line system for Admissions, Financial Aid and Registration. During this time, he was also a Board Member with the Paul Robeson Performing Arts Company, which focused mainly on the financing of Black Performing Arts Productions. In 1979, Dr. Curry became Director of Business Services at Onondaga Community College. There he managed a staff of 28 and was responsible for Purchasing, Contracts, Risk Management, Career Services, Duplicating, Bond Processing, Central Stores, Receiving, Mailroom and Auxiliaries. In addition, he taught Managerial and Financial Accounting as a Senior Adjunct Faculty Member.

In 1991, Dr. Curry accepted a position at Cornell University in New York as the Assistant Director of Accounting. He was responsible for managing the daily operations of Grants and Contracts ($60 million), Endowments ($360 million), Plant Accounting ($500 million), and coordinated Year End activity for Financial Statements totaling $1 billion. He also, taught University wide accounting procedures to Administrators and worked as Director of Administrative Services for the Facilities and Engineering Department. As Controller, he provided forecasts of budgets totaling $50 million and $30 million in Enterprise Operations. At this point in his career, Dr. Curry felt he was ready to pursue a position as Vice President of Finance at a University. He was also very fortunate to have a great mentor in Mr. Robert Hill, Vice Chancellor for Public Relations at the University of Pittsburgh. Mr. Hill urged Dr. Curry (while at Syracuse) to further his education (received his Doctorate at the University of Pittsburgh) and to pursue a Vice Presidential position. The search for a Vice President position was proving to be difficult so Dr. Curry decided to look at positions with titles such as Assistant or Associate Vice President. This approach worked well as he accepted a position at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania as Assistant Vice President for Finance in 1986. He held this position for two years; in 1988 he was named the Vice President for Finance at Slippery Rock University. Dr. Curry believes that you should always keep your eye on the prize and believe in yourself. Awards Received 1988 Presidents Award for Outstanding Service 1989 Outstanding High School Alumni Award 1993 Outstanding Administrator Award (Alpha Phi Alpha) 2000 Black Achievers Award 2004 Cost Saving Program Award, National Association of College and Business Officers (NACUBO) 2004 Pacesetter Leadership Award 2005 CFO Finalist Award 2006 CFO Finalist Award 2008 Minority Achievement Award 2008 Honored Dr. Curry’s achievements through a Board Resolution for Outstanding Professionalism and Service, Slippery Rock University Board Memberships and Professional Affiliations

MR. OMARR BASHIR We all need to be inspired! As an Instructor, Omarr Bashir eagerly informs his students on the pitfalls they may encounter in the media, while also encouraging them to go for it! As a mentor he lets young people know that life isn’t easy, but it is what you make of it and as the President and CEO of Heritage Sports Radio Network, LLC (HSRN), Omarr takes this information and uses it as motivation every day. HSRN is the first and only network broadcasting Historically Black College and University sports nationally. Mr. Bashir founded HSRN after 20 years in the media with the expressed mission of providing a national outlet that is changing the way Historically Black College and University sports are covered, while simultaneously transforming the way this community of sports participants, patrons and viewers is now being represented. Omarr began his media career in 1989 at a local AM radio station in Delaware (WDOV). Then a full-time student, he became a part-time employee where his job was board operator by day and bathroom cleaner by night. Some might say that cleaning the bathrooms was harsh, but when Omarr recalls this experience he says it goes back to his family. He grew up the youngest of eleven children and as he puts it, paying dues was part of the daily routine. Omarr has always believed that where you are today does not define you; it is where you are going tomorrow that does! After graduating from Delaware State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism, he soon became the afternoon personality on a country music station. He says this is where he ‘cut his teeth’ in this industry. Being on a country music station, Omarr asserts, forced him to think “outside the box”. Although not the prototypical country DJ, Omarr embraced the opportunity and learned a valuable lesson that has become his mantra over the years. Experience has taught him that if you have a vision and you are willing to work hard, you will not be denied opportunity, even if that means creating your own path in life. This idea has been a continuous theme for this skilled

communicator who sees opportunity where others say there is none and works tirelessly at turning these opportunities into something special. In 1996, Omarr was asked to fill in for the regular host of the talk radio show, “Speak Out Delaware.” His energetic personality and on air charisma left an indelible impression on management who offered Omarr the position as full-time host after the regular host left the station. The rest, as they say, is broadcast history. It was at that point that he knew he had found his calling and would never spin a record again. In 2003, he moved on to sports talk where he became a two time recipient of the Sportscaster of the Year award granted by the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association (NSSA). His latest award came in 2006 as HSRN was being launched. Over the years, Omarr has acquired experience in commercial production, radio traffic, reporting as well as sales. His faith is what has sustained him in this industry and when there appeared to be opportunities for the “big time” radio job, he has always worked diligently and trusted that his “greater plan” would soon come to fruition. HSRN is the fruit of his faith and hard work, and the culmination of his greater plan. HSRN, Omarr suggests, is also envisioned as one of the many vehicles for him to give back to the community that has given him so much. He continues to be a community servant by mentoring students through the HSRN internship program. He also teaches radio and television announcing and sports broadcasting at his Alma Mater, DSU. Omarr imagines that the success of HSRN will influence and encourage others toward media ownership and management. Throughout his career, Omarr acknowledges that he has been fortunate to find his voice in this vast, competitive media world. With faith, good fortune, hard work and dedication to his “greater plan”, he has developed the reputation of being one of the media personalities who inspires not only by his word but also by his actions. Bashir is married to Dr. Laurie Dohmen and they are the proud parents of two sons Ameer and Rasheed ages 6 and 3 respectively.

DR. JOHN IGWEBUIKE John Igwebuike brings a passion for presentational performance. With an engaging, personable style, John delivers a message that is highly insightful, reviving, entertaining, and educational. As a certified professional speaker, John presents motivational and professional development messages to a wide variety of audiences including colleges, schools, churches, civic organizations, and companies. John Igwebuike serves as the Associate Dean of the School of Business as well as associate professor of Business Law at Alcorn State University School of Business. He has taught at The Ohio State University and Indiana University. Additionally, he has served as a management team leader for Kimberly-Clark Corporation. He is the co-author of the book, Brothers of the Academy (Stylus Publishing Company), which explores academic achievement in higher education. Currently, he writes a monthly motivational column for Purpose Magazine and Healthy Living Magazine, and Toastmasters International

Magazine. He is the immediate past Editor-in-Chief for Brothers of the Academy (BOTA) www.bota.org. John Igwebuike is a highly motivated and determined individual who values education and personal growth and development. He graduated from St. Francis De Sales High School in Toledo, Ohio. He began college at the age of 17. He holds a bachelors degree in Education as well as a second bachelors in Business Administration from The Ohio State University. Also, he holds an M.B.A. from California State Polytechnic University and a second Masters in Labor and Human Resources from The Ohio State University. In 1998, he earned a Ph.D. in Business and Education from The Ohio State University. Finally, he received law degree from Indiana University in 2000. All degrees were achieved by age 31. He founded The Messenger International in 1996. The Messenger International is a professional speaking, training, and consulting organization dedicated to providing inspirational messages, seminars, and workshops to schools, businesses, and community organizations throughout the nation. His personal and professional motto as a speaker is: “Not for the reward of the message, but for the truth of the message.”

ATTORNEY SE HERNDON HEAN MR. HERSCHEL Herschel Herndon is the vice president of multicultural relations and market development for Best Buy Co., Inc. headquartered in Minneapolis, MN. Herndon is responsible for developing and leading the company’s emerging diversity, multicultural relations & market development processes as well as urban growth initiatives. He led the efforts to create a unique partnership between Best Buy and Magic Johnson Enterprises to support growth in urban, underserved and emerging markets across the United States. As Best Buy’s customers and their needs are rapidly changing, Herndon is charged with helping the Company strengthen its market leadership position by identifying ways to meet and exceed diverse employee and customer expectations including

building and maintaining quality business relationships in urban/multicultural areas where Best Buy operates. Prior to Best Buy, Herndon launched innovative HR and global diversity processes at two major corporations. He was the director of global communications and diversity at The Stanley Works (SWK), headquartered in New Britain, Conn., which he joined in January 1999. He started his career at the Deluxe Corporation (DLX) in 1984 and served as distribution center manager, assistant production manager and assistant plant manager. In 1993, he was named international director of training for Deluxe’s Business Systems Division, and then followed this role with a key corporate development position for the company.Prior to joining The Stanley Works, he served as Deluxe’s first Director of Corporate Diversity.

CONGRATULATIONS

HERSCHEL HERNDON! For being named one of the Top 40 Inspirers in America. We appreciate your commitment to enhancing the lives of those in the communities we serve!

MS. CHEYLON BROWN Cheylon Brown is an alumna of the University of North Texas. She has worked in the Multicultural Center since 1997 and currently serves as Director for the Multicultural Center and Women’s Center. Miss Brown holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in English a Master’s degree in Higher Education and certification in Volunteer and Community Resource Management from the University of North Texas. At the University of North Texas, Miss Brown serves as the on-campus advisor for the Zeta Eta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the UNT chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Servants After the Living Truth, Indian Pakistani Student Association, Sickle Cell Awareness Organization, Phi Sigma Pi, National co-ed Honor Fraternity and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. She is the facilitator for the Special Interest Group Network, a member of the Staff Council, an Advisory Board member for the UNT McNair Program and Multicultural Scholastic Award Committee, a member of the Distinguished Lecture Series Committee as well as a member of the UNT Safety Committee. In the community, Miss Brown serves on the National Advisory Board for the National African American Student Leadership Conference, the Business Advisory Board for Goodwill Industries, Inc., as the Texas State Coordinator for Association of Black Culture Centers, the Vice President of the Head’s Up! Foundation of Dallas, a Board Member of the Institute for Educational Excellence, a member of the John D. O’Bryant Think Tank, Association of American University Women, Texas Association of Black

Personnel in Higher Education (TABPHE), The Association for the Study of Transfer Students, the Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and a member of several other organizations. She has served as the keynote speaker or a panelist for several groups such as Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Chi Upsilon Sigma Latin Sorority, Inc., the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Association of Black Cultural Centers, the Fort Worth Harmony Missionary Baptist District Association, Navo Middle School, W. M. Green Elementary School, and North Central Texas Community College to name a few. She is also a writer and poet. In 2009, she wrote a literary review for Soul Poems: Life as Fertile Ground, a poetry book written by Meldye Micere Van Putten of Bermuda. Miss Brown has received numerous awards and honors which include: Who’s Who Among American Colleges & Universities, UNT Soaring Eagle Award (numerous occasions), UNT Greek Supporter of the Year, UNT Staff Member of the Year, UNT Advisor of the Year, UNT Outstanding Volunteer, ALANA Community Activist Award, UNT Eagle Partner Award, NT Community Award, President’s Award from The Black Academy of Arts & Letters(TBAAL), the Excellence in Community Service from the Progressive Women’s Club of Fort Worth and a host of other awards. Miss Cheylon Brown is the Education Pastor for Community Outreach Ministry, in Irving, Texas where she serves under Overseer Lisa Tarpley Tucker.

ATTORNEY SE HEAN MR. NHIA VANG Nhia Vang’s story should serve as inspiration for all new immigrants. Now a well-respected and visible part of the La Crosse, Wis., community, Nhia’s journey hasn’t been easy.

It begins in 1976 when he came to the United States as a teenager, landing near Champaign, Illinois. He was one of the first pilot immigrant groups to leave Laos. With no English skills, he was hungry for education. In fact, his goal was to learn English and get educated. He longed to

attend high school, but was told no by his sponsor because his English skills were so poor. With only $500 dollars in his family’s pocket and a desire to work, Nhia left Champaign, and moved to Rantoul, Ill., getting a job as a janitor at the Air Force Base. It was there he befriended a deaf African-American man who also worked as a janitor. His limited English skills obviously weren’t important, and the two men became best friends, with Nhia learning English through the notes they wrote to one another in order to communicate. It was also Nhia’s friend who introduced him to the Black community, giving his insight into the plight of poor African-Americans. In 1978, he found a second job at a window factory, and attended English language classes part-time. He worked there until 1980. He was laid off, but used the opportunity to move to Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn., in order to study and learn. He earned the first of his degrees in machine tool, but found factory life not for him. In fact, he didn’t like it. What he did like was debate and law. That had been his background in Laos, and he wanted to find something that suited him better. He found it at Western Wisconsin Technical Institute (now Western Technical College) in La Crosse. He earned an accounting degree from Western then took online courses from California Coast University and earned a bachelor of science degree and a master of science degree in business administration. He was hired at Western in 1984 as the minority specialist where he works primarily with students, helping guide them in their educational journey. One of Nhia’s favorite activities at Western is managing and facilitating the Next Step program. This pre-college recruitment program targets minority high school youth in our area. The goal is to give minority students a sense of direction regarding their post-high school graduation plans. The Next Step program started in 2000 with a small pilot group; it is now offered twice annually and has a waiting list. To date, Nhia estimates he’s helped more than 150 students transition from high school to college, whether at

Western or elsewhere. He notes that more and more Hmong students are coming to college now than ever before. He encourages them to be more than just their degree allows. He wants his students to contribute to society as well. And he feels a sense of responsibility for their success. Nhia estimates that 95 percent of the Hmong refugees who come to the La Crosse area don’t have education past elementary school; therefore, they don’t know how to advise and guide their children to pursue an education. Very often, because Nhia is so well known in the community, parents will ask him to help their child graduate. In addition to his Next Step responsibilities, Nhia serves as the co-chair of the on-campus Diversity Task Force, bringing his knowledge and experience to the group. He is also a well-regarded and popular regional consultant and speaker, giving companies guidance on and education about the Hmong culture. He also works collaboratively with local community-based organizations to help provide a seamless transitional path to Western, promote the successful transition of minority students from basic education programs to post-secondary education, and provide a variety of student support services that promote minority student retention at Western. In addition to his on-campus responsibilities, Nhia is or has been involved in several community volunteer services in the Greater La Crosse Area, including serving on the Salvation Army Advisory Board, the American Red Cross Board, United Way Board, Family and Children’s Center Board, Viterbo University Board, and Election Commission Chairperson for Area Hmong Mutual Assistance Association. But it’s his work with students that brings him the most satisfaction. He’s proud of the work he’s been able to accomplish in the past 24 years. As he says, “I’m not just here to get a job, but to help my community be productive.”

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Herndon has a vast network of U.S. and International business relationships. He is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Leadership Greater Hartford, Connecticut, and serves as a Board of Director for the YMCA of Greater St. Paul, MN and Sphinx Performing Arts in Detroit, MI. He most recently served as a judge in the SIFE World Cup business competitions held in Barcelona, Spain during September 2004, Toronto, Canada in October 2005, Paris, France, September 2006 and Singapore, Singapore in October 2008. He also co-chaired the National Black Philanthropy Confer-

ence which convened in Minneapolis during June 05. He is a member of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, also known as The Boule´. A native of Corpus Christi, Texas, Herndon graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a degree in economics. He is married to Lisa, and they have two children, Kameron Spencer and Zoë Gabriella. The Herndons reside in Eden Prairie, MN.

MS. DENISE IVERSON PAYNE Denise Iverson-Payne has worked in community and public service programs for nearly four decades. She spent her formative years in the segregation of the 1960’s as her interest in the areas of student services, diversity, cultures and the humanities began. While in high school he played a critical role in developing student exchange programs for her high school in the Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO) School district and other area schools to open the doors for integration in KCMO. At Grinnell College, Grinnell, IA, she enrolled in classes related to African American history, culture, finishing her first major at the end of her sophomore year; thus leaving her to double major in Black Studies and West African Cultures; she received an additional degree in Cultural Anthropology. She was so inspired by her course work she began to study abroad upon graduating to study cultures in East Africa, i.e. Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar. She went on to receive her Master of Education in Counseling and Cross-Cultural Communications from Phillips University, Enid, Oklahoma and is currently completing a PhD in Critical Pedagogy. During college she was a dancer, actress and became involved in black activism. She served as a member of the Experimental Black Actors Guild (X-BAG) of Chicago, IL and worked for the Institute of Positive Education under the direction of Haki R. Madhubuti, where she began to take her life, activism and service to others more serious. Iverson-Payne continues to immerse herself with cultural knowledge and create new possibilities for

students and staff to develop new areas for exchange. She has a broad interest and it has shown in her professional development. She has served as a paralegal, worked in local and county politics and served as a field investigator in Human Rights for the State of Missouri. She also served as the Director of Operations for the 1980 decennial. Served as an International Student Advisor and worked in immigration law. Her range of interests has always been related to service. Ms. Iverson-Payne currently serves as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Development at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (A&T), Greensboro, NC. In this capacity Iverson-Payne provides leadership for student support service programs that contribute to the academic mission of A&T in the areas of student life, leadership development, civic and service education, undergraduate new student orientation, first year experience (FYE), parent programs, transition programs and other student related matters. The department’s motto is “Students are why we are here!” Prior to assuming this role, Iverson-Payne served as Executive Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Director of New Student Orientation/FYE. Prior to her appointment at A&T, Iverson-Payne served as Special Assistant to the President for Diversity Development at Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minnesota, where she coordinated, planned and developed an array of campus-wide diversity initiatives that included programs for faculty curriculum development and staff enhancement; cross-cultural communication; underrepresented populations, i.e. gender equity, ethnic and cultural diversity, socio-economic, sexual orientation, region, special needs, etc.

In her spare time, Denise is an active reader, who loves music, theatre, dance and travel. She has led students on “underground-railroad trips” as a class assignment and escorted students on study abroad trips in South Africa, Swaziland and East Africa. She strives to be an authentic servant leader and feels her greatest accomplishment is the

ability to serve others. Her personal motto is best stated by her best friend, “Life is a banquet of choices, how dare anyone [say] choose one destiny!”

DR. RAPHEAL MOEFFETT Raphael X. Moffett is a native of Washington State. He received his bachelors in English from Washington State University, his masters and doctorate in Educational Leadership from Clark Atlanta University. Raphael’s research focused on factors that impact African American undergraduate student retention at predominantly white institutions and historically black colleges and universities. His most memorable research experience is being afforded the opportunity to travel to Salvador, Bahia, Brazil and explore college preparation programs and testing procedures at the Steve Biko Institute for students of African descent. While in Brazil he also studied Afro Brazilian culture and the native language of Portuguese. In his present role at Trinity University, Dr. Moffett serves at the Director of Campus and Community Involvement and is responsible for the planning, delivery, and evaluation of programs in this department, including but not limited to activities programming, student organizations, leadership programs, new student orientation, parent programming, diversity programs, service programs, Greek life, and student-edited publications. Additionally, he helps shape the co-curricular direction of the division and of programs across a variety of departments on campus. Prior to coming to Trinity University, Dr. Moffett worked at

Morehouse College, Georgia State University, and Clark Atlanta University and has been invited to speak, consult, and conduct workshops and seminars on campuses throughout the United States. Raphael wholeheartedly believes that every student has the ability to excel academically, while also achieving personal growth with the proper guidance, influence and nurturing. Raphael has made a career of assisting all students in their academic and personal endeavors with the notion of having an open door policy that allows for honest dialogue about their challenges, triumphs, crossroads, and post graduate plans. Raphael is a member of several professional organizations including the American Educational Research Association (AERA), National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), and the Georgia College Personnel Association (GCPA). He is also committed to community service by being an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated. In his leisure, Raphael enjoys spending time with his wife, reading, traveling, attending sporting events, playing basketball, trying new restaurants, calligraphy, and playing the piano. Raphael is married to Aisha Moffett and is a member of Bethesda Cathedral of the Apostolic faith in Decatur, Georgia.

MR. LAWRENCE WATKINS Lawrence Watkins is a 25-year old entrepreneur and owner of Great Black Speakers Bureau, an organization dedicated to assisting universities and corporations locate speakers for various events throughout the year. Founded in January 2007, Great Black Speakers has quickly risen to become a premier force in the speaking industry, boasting over 200 African-American speakers and over 100 university/corporate clients. As a 2006 University of Louisville graduate, Lawrence majored in electrical engineering while remaining heavily involved with student life on his campus. During his college career, he ran for Student Government President, planned a 700 person regional conference for the National Society of Black Engineers, and was Chapter Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Furthermore, he was instrumental in making university policy change through his appointments to several boards by the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administration. Academically, Lawrence has a wide variety of interests and incorporates them into his career as an entrepreneur. In 2004, he was a participant in the Summer Venture in Management Program at Harvard Business School. In 2005, Lawrence received the prestigious Public Policy and International Affairs Fellowship from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA.

Lawrence is currently continuing his education as the Rodney P. Hunt Fellow at the Johnson School of Management on the campus of Cornell University. At Johnson, Lawrence will earn his MBA in entrepreneurship and marketing. He is involved in Management Leadership for Tomorrow, an organization dedicated to helping young professionals attain leadership positions in corporations, non-profits, and entrepreneurial ventures. In December of 2008, Lawrence launched phase two of his company, Great Black Publicity. This organization will aid experienced speakers with access to local, regional, and national media. With all of his success, Lawrence is still dedicated to his community and always seeking opportunities to provide internships within his company. Speaking Topics: Frame Your Future: 8 Tips to Effectively Focus on the Future and not Dwell in the Past Connected or Not Connected, That is the Question: Proven relationship building Skills that ALL college students need to know. Entrepreneurship 2.0: Learn how to rise from a broke college student to $10,000 a month in profits while working less than 10 hours per week

MS. JOANN LOVELESS Joann Loveless is head of the Westinghouse Electric company global graphic services and identity department. Professionally, she is responsible for the coordination of internal and external graphic design and branding strategies that exhibit customer value and yield optimal returns on

investment for the worldwide company. Ms Loveless was appointed to the position in 2007. Over the last seven years, Ms. Loveless has led communications efforts entailing increasing levels of responsibility for two of the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business units with direct communications oversight of operation in France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the U.S. Prior to joining Westinghouse in 1992, Ms. Loveless

was employed by SC Electric and Gas for 14 years. A graduate of the University of South Carolina, Ms. Loveless holds a Bachelors of Arts degree in English, concentrated in writing.

Ms. Loveless was elected in July 2008 to serve as 22nd international Grand Basileus of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc after serving four years as international first Grand Basileus. She is a life member.

ATTORNEY HEAN MR. KENNETHSEKARAMICHAEL “Challenge me to say no.” As a lead partner in the establishment of the YE2S (Youth Education and Employment Success) Center in Newark, New Jersey, Ken Karamichael is always saying YES. Ken’s commitment to saying Yes to opportunity and service began at a young age, as he dedicated his talents and energy to becoming an Eagle Scout. A native of Jackson Heights in Queens, New York, Ken in large part credits his mother, active in his education, for his successful school engagement, and his father, a servant of their city, for his consciousness and enjoyment of urban life. Ever since, Ken’s commitment to, and education in, community development, has continued to play a powerful part in his career and experience. Ken has worked for the Rutgers University/NJAES Office of Continuing Professional Education for fourteen years, and has maintained loyalty to the great Scarlet Knights for much longer than that, since he attended Rutgers University and even performed as their mascot in his undergraduate days. Ken is now the director of Rutgers Transitional Education and Employment Management (TEEM) Gateway, an organization working primarily with juvenile parolees, probationers and disconnected youth. The success of Rutgers TEEM Gateway is a tribute to not only the dynamic approach with which Ken infuses a workplace dealing with adjudicated youth, but also his successful attainment of nearly $9 million in funding for at-risk youth programming. In January of 2008, Rutgers TEEM Gateway acted as one of the lead agencies collaborating to establish Newark’s YE2S Center, along with the Newark Public Schools Office of Alternative Education, Communities In Schools of New Jersey, the City of Newark and The Nicholson Foundation. This innovative Center brings together a number of educational options and wraparound services in one building for any young person seeking to return to school or employment. In his work with the YE2S Center, Ken promotes a culture of success that responds to its surrounding urban community by highlighting its strengths, focusing on its potential and identifying its positive resources. He and his dedicated team say YES to any student wishing to return to schools, to families in need

of support while their children attempt to succeed, and to partner organizations dedicated to building productive futures for the youth of New Jersey. In just its second year, the Center has already drawn the attention of the President of Rutgers University and been applauded and awarded as a signature initiative in the development of the Rutgers Urban Extension and community outreach model by the Executive Dean. Ken Karamichael is a firm believer in the strength that lies in collaborative efforts, from interdepartmental partnerships within Rutgers University to interagency partnerships that let the YE2S Center thrive. A collaborative approach draws together all of the stakeholders and providers invested in success for the youth of Newark at the YE2S Center, and Ken is a part of other collaborative approaches to youth work as well: the New Jersey Shared Youth Vision partnership, both the statewide and Newark- and Trenton-local Municipal Prevention Policy Boards, and the Governor’s Council on Prevention. Ken also represents Newark on its Disconnected Youth Work Group with the National League of Cities. With a multitude of invaluable support, Ken has also been able to share his thoughts and experience nationally as a speaker on at-risk youth work, aftercare for juvenile offenders, and fundraising for young organizations. In shared ideas and shared resources are shared successes. Ken would very much like to thank all of those who have shared ideas, resources and especially opportunities with him, giving special thanks to his family, the team at Rutgers TEEM Gateway, The Nicholson Foundation, and Mayor Cory A. Booker of Newark for their firm and gracious support. The YE2S Center is a collaborative whole greater than the sum of its individual parts, and Ken and others see center youth participants as individuals greater than the sum of their experiences, successes or mistakes. Youth indirectly challenge Ken to say no each day to a dilemma that he, his staff and his partner network may not be able to solve. Staff members challenge Ken to say no to innovative or imaginative ideas and improvements that may not be easy to implement in the YE2S Center processes. We hardly ever hear Ken saying no; why not challenge ourselves to say YES?

MR. TYCOON Internationally-renowned Motivational Speaker, Personal Development Coach, Investment Real Estate Guru, and Entrepreneur of Success, Mr. Tycoon is legendary for his “tough but fair” deal-making and negotiation skills. His bestselling book, “Success Is Not A Secret, It’s A System,” extracts the lessons he learned on the road to building his successful real estate investment company and personal fortune, and is the “must-have” guidebook to achieving financial and personal success. Initially begun his life journey in Real Estate, Mr. Tycoon continue to oversee the management of a multi-million dollar real estate investment empire which includes both commercial and residential real estate holdings, educational tools and seminars, private consultation as well as personal coaching. Having mentored by famous Ron LeGrand, Tony Robbins, Marshall Sylver and Stephen Pierce, Mr. Tycoon is a true product of mentorship and success. Having developed his own brand and prowess in motivating, educating as well as inspiring people to achieving their financial freedom as well as their life goals and recognizing the need for personal development as well providing guidance and inspiration to people from all walks of life, Mr. Tycoon is heeding the call and has developed his own personal development strategy along with his Life Coach, Wife and Life Partner, Coach Janese.

With the true intention and dedication to help those who seek guidance in achieving their goals with the aim to jumpstart their lives and begin their journey of success and financial independence and freedom, the creation of "S5 System- The Ultimate Personal Development System" is the true result of Mr. Tycoon's life work and with the desire to educate and help people who seek inner fulfillment and transformation from the inside out. Mr. Tycoon adheres to the belief that when all the important pillars of your life is harmonious and balance has been achieved, then ultimate personal success is inevitable and real wealth and richness can be attained. When asked about his professional and academic distinctions, Mr. Tycoon has made it widely known that "...it is our legacy - what we pass on to future generations - that matters most. A legacy of wealth transforms not just the individual, but also the family, the neighborhood, the community, the country and ultimately the world, which really is the true value of wealth. I'm committed to making as many millionaires as I can by showing them what I have done and teaching them how to do it too!" Entrepreneurship 2.0: Learn how to rise from a broke college student to $10,000 a month in profits while working less than 10 hours per week

MR. JINO P. RAY

--Jino Pereze Ray

“It is by connecting with people that we witness the beauty of humanity. As we recognize and embrace the humanity of others, we become the embodiment of one of the greatest commandments of all…’Love thy neighbor as thyself ’.”

Jino Pereze Ray is a lover of humanity. Since a young age, he has worked to ensure that all people are treated fairly and afforded equal opportunity solely on the basis of their humanity. The second of seven children, Jino was born in Cairo, GA to Melvin, Sr. and Bobbie Ray. Raised throughout rural south Georgia and north and central Florida, he became well-acquainted with the grim face of racism and oppression that still exists in the United States.

Experiencing discrimination as a young child, however, did not make him bitter. In fact, it made him that much more determined to use his life as an instrument for equality and change. As a young musician, Jino was inspired to use the arts to change the world around him. At the age of 14 he established the Voices of Triumph Community Arts Ensemble in Cairo, GA. Under his leadership, this group of youth and young adults performed at numerous local venues, organized service activities, and provided scholarships for graduating seniors. Throughout his high school and college careers, Jino continued to use the arts as a tool for meeting needs and bridging gaps. In 2004, he founded The Revolution Performing Arts Corps, a group of performing artists who dedicate their talents to work that helps transform communities. Currently, Jino is starring as Jesus Christ in the new gospel musical “ONE: One Man, Twelve Followers, One Faith” featuring renowned gospel artist Reverend Daryl Coley. The show is currently playing at the West Angeles Theater in Los Angeles, CA and may be coming soon to a city near you. Beyond the arts, Jino has been and remains a social and educational entrepreneur. His desire to create social and educational programs that are native to the African-

American community has led him to found The Revolution! Community Transformation Movement (The Rev!). Currently he serves as founder and Executive Director of The Rev! a movement that seeks to empower young people to transform their communities through education, service and leadership. Jino believes that individual transformation is the cornerstone of community and global transformation. In the fall of 2009, Jino will begin a yearlong journey to conduct research and seek the wisdom of African-American scholars, clergy, business leaders and community members who witnessed the transformation of our country throughout the civil rights era. From this research, he will develop a framework that will empower black youth to affect lasting social change in their communities amidst 21st century challenges. Jino is a graduate of The Florida State University where he earned a bachelors degree in Political Science with a minor in African-American Studies. While a student at FSU, he was actively involved in many campus organizations including the Black Student Union, FSU Gospel Choir, Your Voice TV Talk Show, and the Marching Chiefs. He is a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Kappa Psi Honorary Band Fraternity and Golden Key National Honor Society. He currently resides in Los Angeles, CA.

ATTORNEY SE HEAN MR. RORY MITCHNER Rory Mitchner was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. He graduated from William M Raines HS in 1981. After HS, he attended the University of Florida and graduated in June of 1986 with a BS in Statistics. At Florida, Cadet Mitchner completed the AFROTC program and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force on June 6th 1986. Lt Mitchner married the his college sweetheart on June 14th, 1986 in Jacksonville Florida Lt Mitchner was assigned to navigator training squadron and completed training at Mather AFB in February 1987. His follow on training as a B-52 navigator at Castle AFB in Merced, CA. Upon completing B-52 training, Lt Mitchner was assigned to Barksdale AFB in Shreveport, LA in February 1988. During B-52 training, Rory and Carol’s first child, Randall Mitchner, was borne at Castle AFB At Barksdale AFB, Lt Mitchner held the following positions of B-52 Navigator, Instructor Navigator, and

radar navigator. Lt Mitchner was promoted to the rank of 1st Lieutenant and Captain. While planning for the 1st Gulf War, Captain Mitchner was award a pilot slot at Williams AFB in Chandler, AZ in Jan 1991. Before leaving Barksdale AFB, Carol and Rory had their 2nd child, Carlita Mithner in Jun 1990. Captain Mitchner completed Pilot training of January of 1992; Captain Mitchner was assigned to the 183rd Airlift Squadron flying the C-141B with the Mississippi Air National Guard in Jackson MS. Captain Mitchner had flown over 4000 hours as Co-pilot, First Pilot and Aircraft Commander in the C-141B. Some of his memorable missions in the 141B were flying medical patience, hurricane relief, and military missions around the world. During his stay in Jackson, MS, from April 1992 to January 2000, Captain Mitchner had worked with Sherriff Victor Mason with visiting city schools. His love and dedication for mentoring kept Captain Mitchner grounded and a sense of giving back to his community. His worked as the liaison between the Jackson City School and the Mississippi Air National Guard was awarded with a nomination for Junior Officer of the year,

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representing the State of Mississippi for the Air National Guard and promoted below the zone to Major. In July of 1995 Rory and Carol had their 3rd child, Catherine Mitchner. On December 1, 1997, Rory Mitchner was hired at Northwest Airline as a Pilot. He has flown as the First Officer on the DC-9, and Airbus 320 and 319. He has volunteered to work with Professional Standards, which is a liaison between the pilots and management. Rory has been a member of the Organization of Black Airline pilots, (OBAP), since 1992 and was the Southeast Region VP in 2002 to 2006, and then he developed the

position of Information Officer from 2006 to 2008. OBAP enhance, advance, and promote education opportunities in aviation. Rory is currently the Vice President in Memphis Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen and President of his daughter’s Band Booster Club. Rory love to talk to kids about aviation and career choices. His son Randall is a Junior at the AFA Academy and his daughter is Freshman at Rhodes College in Memphis. When not flying he enjoys watching Law and Order.

MR. ANTONIO LEROY Mr. Antonio Leroy is the son of Julia Davis and James Leroy. He was born on October 20, 1973, and raised in Albany, Georgia. He attended the Dougherty County School System and graduated from Monroe Comprehensive High School. While matriculating from Monroe High, Leroy stood out as a student athlete. He was All-American in football and wrestling. In these sports he won state titles in 1991, 1992 & 1993. Leroy also volunteered in after-school programs while attending high school. Upon graduating in 1993, Leroy received an Academic/Athletic scholarship to attend Albany State University. As a student athlete, Leroy set numerous records as a running back with the Golden Rams football team while receiving his degree in the area of Health/Physical Education and Recreation. Some of his records include; 1996 All Time Leading Rusher in the history of Albany State University with 5,152 and 60 rushing TD’s, and 4th All Time Leading Rusher in history of Division II Football. In addition, Leroy was named Player of the Year for Division II 1995 & 1996, Athlete of the Year, SIAC Running Back of the Year, SIAC Player of the Year and 100% Wrong Club Most Valuable Player in 1993, 1994, 1995 & 1996. Also, Leroy received the Marine Corp Leadership Award in New York City, New York in 1996 and runner up to the Eddie Robertson “Spirit Award” in Los Angeles, California in 1996. Another highlight in Leroy’s career was his participation with Tampa Bay

Buccaneers Football Camp in 1996-97. Currently, Leroy coordinates the Center for the AfricanAmerican Male at Albany State University, and serves as a mentor for many young men in Dougherty and surrounding counties. Leroy received a share of the “Legacy Award” for having the best gang prevention program in the country because of his work in mentoring and gang prevention in 2002 at a conference in Jacksonville, Florida. In 2002, he was awarded a certificate of appreciation for his involvement in “Promoting Good Health Practices” in the University System of Georgia. In 2005, Leroy became a member of National Area II League South Georgia Wildcats as a fullback and linebacker. In addition, on April 24, 2006, Leroy was inducted into the Albany Sports Hall of Fame in the Class of 2006. On Saturday, October 14, 2006, Albany State University honored Leroy for his accomplishments as a student athlete for records he set 10 years ago that are still used as a standard for running backs on the Golden Rams team. Leroy has participated and collaborated with countless programs and conferences throughout the Southeastern part of the country. With a strong background in Health Education, Mentoring and Leadership training, Leroy’s life is for him to live and the world to share. He is the proud father of two sons, Antonio II & Akilies. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Albany, Georgia Chapter. His take on life is simple, “We can’t change the course of the wind, but we can change the course of our Sail”.

DR. JOYCE PAYNE A widely sought after speaker and lecturer, Dr. Norman Joyce Payne is a higher education expert. She is a Senior Scientist with the Gallup Organization and serves on numerous boards, commissions and educational committees, including the American Association of Retired

tion and labor force participation, Dr. Payne has published and presented a number of papers on "Women in Administration in Higher Education"; "Women in Urban School Systems, New Women, & The Consequences of Power"; "Maintaining the Competitive Tradition" in Minorities in Higher Education; "Hidden Messages in the Pursuit of Equality" in Academe; and "Black Colleges in an Expanding Economy" in the American Council on Education's Educational Record.

Dr. Payne founded the Thurgood Marshall College Fund in 1987 as a voice for public historically black colleges and universities. Because of her vision, the Fund has raised and distributed more than $100 million in scholarships, capacity building and programmatic support to its 47 member colleges and universities, and 6 law schools in 22 states, the District of Columbia, and the US Virgin Islands.

Dr. Payne is one of the founders of the D.C. Chapter of the Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. and a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. She has received awards from the Ford Foundation, the Spencer Foundation, the U.S. Air Force and serves on the distinguished Foreign Service Performance Evaluation Board, U.S. Department of State.

Persons (AARP).

She retired as Vice President for Minority Affairs for the Advancement of Public Black Colleges (OAPBC) of the National Association of State Universities and Land-Grant Colleges (NASULGC) in cooperation with the American Association of State College and Universities (AASCU). OAPBC is an information advocacy office that represents 35 of the largest and most prestigious historically Black public colleges and universities in the nation. Dr. Payne formerly served as President of Global Systems, Inc. and as a senior staff member under the Carter administration with the President's Advisory Committee for Women; President's National Advisory Council on Women's Education Programs and the White House Conference on Families. An authority on women's issues in relation to higher educa-

An alumnus of the District of Columbia Teachers Colleges, where she received the Bachelor of Science degree, Dr. Payne earned a master's and doctorate degrees from Atlanta University. She taught at the former Federal City College and at George Washington University. She served on the Board of Trustees of the University of the District of Columbia for nine years, and was elected chair of the Board of Trustees in 1985-88. Dr. Payne has been awarded the Honorary Doctor of Laws from Lincoln University of Missouri and the University of the District of Columbia. A native of Washington, D.C., she lives in North Carolina.

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MR. DARIUS WALKER Darius Walker is CNN’s New York bureau chief. In this capacity, Walker oversees all editorial resources and assignments for CNN’s team of correspondents, producers, photojournalists and editors based in CNN’s largest national bureau. He also oversees the business and financial news resources for CNN Worldwide. Prior to his New York assignment, Walker was the senior director of newsgathering for CNN’s Washington, D.C., bureau. Walker previously served as vice president of CNN Business News, where he managed business news coverage for CNN, CNNfn, Headline News and CNN Radio; served as supervising producer for CNNfn’s Atlanta operations and as senior producer for the business news program, Lou Dobbs Moneyline. From 1996 to 1998, Walker worked for CNN’s national desk in Atlanta as a senior editor and producer. Before joining CNN, Walker, a seven-time Emmy Award winner, was managing editor and executive producer for special projects at NBC’s flagship station, WNBC in New York. From 1992 to 1994, he worked at WAGA-TV, the

CBS affiliate in Atlanta, where he was managing editor and led the Emmy Award-winning coverage of the Atlanta stadium fire. From 1988 to 1992 Walker worked as assignment editor, field producer and producer for ABC News in New York. Prior to that, Walker worked in his hometown of Boston for TV stations WBZ and WHDH. He also worked at WBZ, WRBB and WBSM radio stations and began his journalism career at the Boston Globe. Walker received the Champion Award for Business Reporting from Dartmouth College’s Amos Tuck School of Business while reporting for radio station WBZ in Boston. Walker is also a recipient of the 2002 New York Association of Black Journalists Inaugural “Trailblazer” Award for Excellence in Journalism. He is a former co-chairman of CNN Worldwide’s Diversity Council and former member of the Atlanta Press Club’s board of governors. Walker attended Northeastern University in Boston where he studied journalism and political science. He is also a 2005 NAMIC Fellow in Executive Leadership and Management from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management.

ATTORNEY SE HEAN MS. AVA PERRINE Ava Perrine teaches broadcast writing courses and advises WDSU “The Hive,” the campus’ radio station at Delaware State University. A self-described “Mass Comm Animal” in a career spanning more than 20 years, Perrine has worked in every area of mass communications-- radio, television, print, public relations, film, the Internet. The Chicago native and United States Air Force veteran began her career in radio news, and moved on to television news. In her varied career she has worked as a TV sports reporter/special events commentator, print news editor, columnist, radio talk show host features producer, and

voice-over talent. In a public relations capacity, Perrine worked as Deputy Press Secretary to former Delaware Governor Thomas R. Carper, publicist for Morale, Welfare and Recreation at Dover Air Force Base, public affairs officer and public information officer for three government agencies. Perrine hosted and associate produced for 10 years, “Comcast Connects” and "Comcast Local Edition," two television public affairs interview programs for The Comcast Network. Perrine acted as a member of “The Grownups Playground” an improv theater group in New York City, appeared in small roles in three independent films, as an extra in one feature film, “Changing Lanes” starring Samuel L. Jackson & Ben Affleck, and in a small

speaking role on "The Chris Rock Show" on HBO.

are among her interests.

Currently, she is collaborating with a colleague to produce a children’s television show and pursuing an Ed.D in Educational Leadership at Delaware State.

*Recently asked why she teaches, Mrs. Perrine responded, “ I do this work, because I love it and see it as a natural extension of my profession. In order to keep myself marketable I always have projects going, but it’s more than gratifying to help and guide new professionals along the path at the start of their careers. Nurturing, mentoring, coaching, cajoling and occasionally slapping someone upside the head, whatever strategy needed at the time I’m up for it. That’s what it’s about.”

Ava is a wife of 30 years to her beloved husband, JP, step-mom of two wonderful daughters, Jamie and Nickki, grandmother of Tony, Talia and Khiara and mentor to many. She has volunteered with the League of Women Voters, the United Way, Delaware Parents Association and by mayor-appointment, the Dover Arts Council. Golf, reading, gardening, cooking, entertaining and traveling

MS. MARY JANE MENEFIELD Mary Jane Menefield was born in Talladega, AL. and has one son, Jereme, that is presently attending Florida A&M University. Ms. Menefield began her studies at Alabama A&M University and transferred to Jacksonville State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economic and a minor in Food Service. Presently, Ms. Menefield is the Food Service Administrator with the Department of Justice. Ms. Menefield is the owner of a diversed business called "JAMA SERVICES, INC. that is licensed with the State of Florida for Food Service, Janitorial Services,Family Service,Child Care Services,and Consultant Services.

Ms. Menefield’s highlight and her mark in history was made when she received on December 12, 2006,certification from the United States Government as patent owner of the "Personal Effects Dispenser", patent #7147129. She has held numerous position with the Federal Government since January 21, 1986. In this tenure, she has received recognition for Employee of the Month, "On The SPOT AWARD", and Supervisor of the Quarter. Some of her past positions include: Food Service Director for National Health Corporation, and Commissary Manager for Coca-Cola. Additionally, Ms. Menefield owned and operated a family business called MOM'S TOUCH CAFE in Talladega, Alabama. She is very active in humanetarian projects by assisting the Homeless to transition back into society and as a member of Christian Heritage Church.

““Over Over 11 11 years years of of Educational Educational Triumph” Triumph” www.tekoachaterschool.org State of Texas Recognized Campuses Port Arthur St. James Campus 3617 Gulfway Drive Port Arthur, Texas 77642 Serving grades Pre-K3—2nd (409) 982-8522 Port Arthur Main Campus 326 Thomas Blvd. Port Arthur, Texas 77640 Serving grades 3rd– 6th (409) 982-5400 (4090 982-8498 fax Port Arthur Main Campus 327 Thomas Blvd. Port Arthur, Texas 77640 Serving grades 7rd– 12th (409) 985-4738 (409) 982-1122 fax Orange Campus 1704 North 14th Street Orange, Texas 77630 Serving grades: Pre-k 3—5th (409) 886-9864 (409) 886-0961 fax

Class of 2010

MS. BARBARA A. MCKINZIE Barbara A. McKinzie became international president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority on July 15, 2006, during AKA's international convention in Detroit, MI. McKinzie will serve a four-year term (2006-2010) and be AKA's leadership face during its 2008 Centennial Celebration. In her installation address, McKinzie outlined her programmatic goals and reflected on the journey that brought her to the pinnacle of leadership. She hailed her historic administration as "...the dawn of a journey of the second century that will record unseen, unimaginable and unbelievable aspects of sisterhood and service. The ultimate award and tribute, McKinzie said, is being overwhelmingly elected president and given the chance to serve the Sorority at the highest level of leadership. McKinzie is a nationally-acclaimed CPA who has gained recognition for restoring financial credibility to governmental agencies through her financial savvy. She is

currently Deputy Director of Finance and Administration for Chicago's Neighborhood Housing Services. She was previously Comptroller for the Chicago Housing Authority, the third largest public housing system in the U.S. She rose through Sorority ranks to become chapter president, international treasurer, vice president and, now, president. She also previously served as chief operating officer and owns the distinction of being the first to serve as the Sorority's COO and international president. In addition to her 33 years of service to Alpha Kappa Alpha, the Oklahoma native has served on the boards of a host of organizations and is a current board member of Africare. Driven by an ardent commitment to cultivating young people for future leadership, she devotes much of her time to mentoring youth and crafting programs aimed at developing their potential. McKinzie holds an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and graduated cum laude from East Central University, where she received the school's "Outstanding Graduate" Award. She resides in Olympia Fields, Illinois.

DR. JOSEPH SEABROOKS Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Dr. Joseph Seabrooks Jr. joined the Metropolitan Community College – Blue River in September 2007 as President. MCC-Blue River is a beautiful campus, which sits on approximately 67 acres with well over 170,000 square feet of state of the art educational facilities where nearly 3,600 students are served by over 220 full and part-time faculty and staff. Prior to joining MCC-Blue River, Dr. Seabrooks served as the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. His accountabilities included the Enhanced Learning Center, First Year Experience Programs, International Students & Scholars, Off Campus Connections’ Office, Student Support Services, and Pre-College Programs. Prior to joining the University of Arkansas, Dr. Seabrooks served the University of Missouri-Kansas City for over a decade in numerous capacities, including Assistant Director for Alumni and Constituent

Relations, Director of Minority Student Affairs and Executive Director for the Diversity In Action Office. Dr. Seabrooks holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology, a Masters and Educational Specialist degree in Higher Education Administration and an Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Urban Leadership and Policy Studies and Education Administration, all earned at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Some of Dr. Seabrooks’ recognition and awards include: • 2009 Top 25 to Watch, Diverse Issues in Higher Education • 2009 Alumni Achievement Award, School of Education, University of Missouri-Kansas City • 2009 Ingrams’ Business Journal’s 40 Most Influential Under 40, Kansas City, MO • 2005 Joseph Seabrooks Leadership Award, established in my honor and presented to individuals for exceptional dedication, service, and empowerment of the students of the University of Missouri-Kansas City Dr. Seabrooks is the loving husband of Leslie Seabrooks and the father of two sons, Joseph Seabrooks, III, and Jackson James Seabrooks, who he affectionately refers to as his “Greatest Accomplishments.”

MS. THOMASENA BANKS KEITH Thomasena Banks Keith was born January 4th in Tallahassee, Florida to the late parents of Tommie and Inez Banks, from this union, she is the second of four siblings; Richard John, Larry Charles and Eureka Mae

(deceased). Mrs. Keith is married to Horace Reese Keith. She resided in Honolulu, Hawaii for 20 months during her husband’s military assignment. We are blessed with two wonderful children, Stephen Aldridge and Leilani Kelita and one son-in-law, Spurgeon. She is the proud grandmother of four grandchildren; Briana Simone, Nina Victoria, Jazzmynn Nycole and Colin Keith. Mrs. Keith was a member of Philadelphia Primitive Baptist Church during her childhood, teenage and early adulthood life. After the marriage to Horace, she became a member of St. Eugene Catholic Student Center. Mrs. Keith’s formative years were spent in the Leon County School System, with high school graduation from the original Lincoln High School. She matriculated to Florida A & M University, obtaining a Bachelor of Science Degree in Vocational Home Economics (1975) and a Masters of Education Degree in Adult Education (1983). Mrs. Keith’s firt teaching experience began in 1976, teaching young unwed mothers how to nurture and care for their babies for normal growth and development; physical, social, intellectual, emotional and cognitive development. To further enhance their skills, she taught Infant Care, Family Planning, Parenting, Nutrition, Life Management Skills, and Clothing. Additionally, she served as Director of the Infant Toddler Center from 1976-1985, and supervised eight (8) paraprofessionals and five (5) foster grandparents. In 1976-1984, Mrs. Keith was the Girl Scout Leader for twenty-eight little brownies; she flew the brownies up to junior girl scouts and then cadets. It was a rewarding experience and an adventure in scouting! In 1985, Mrs. Keith became an instructor at the new Lincoln High School for a period of nine years. Her primary teaching focus was Life Management Skills, which covered (13) modules in a semester. The modules consisted of Communications, Management, Family and Parenting, CPR, Nutrition, Drugs and Alcohol, Smoking, Consumer Education, Breast and Testicular Cancer, Aids, HIV, and Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Additionally, she taught Clothing, Housing and Home Furnishings, Family Economics, and Food and Nutrition. Mrs. Keith returned to the Teenage Parent Program in 1994-1996 as Director of the Teddy Bear

Express Program, with a staff of (8) caregivers and (6) foster grandparents. She was later assigned as an Instructor at the Academy of Academics and Technology at Lively Technical Center for one (1) year. Subsequently, in 1997, Mrs. Keith was appointed to the position of Instructor for the Early Childhood Education Program at Lively Technical Center. The students completed the program with a Child Development Associate Equivalency Certificate. Eighty (80) percent of the students become employed at childcare centers with full-time and part-time positions. Eighty (80) percent of the students matriculate to Tallahassee Community College (TCC) to obtain the A.S. Degree in Early Childhood Education. The faculty and staﬀ at Lively Technical Center selected Mrs. Keith for the prestigious Glenn/Howell Distinguished Minority Educator Award in the spring of 2005. Mrs. Keith was introduced to Infant Massage in 1984 by a licensed massage therapist while attending a yoga class. She explained to me that she teaches mothers Infant Massage at her massage school in California. I became so enthused with the positive aspects of infant massage. Mrs. Keith enrolled in the Infant Massage Training Class in Tampa, Florida under the instruction of Vimala McClure, the pioneer of Infant Massage. In 1984, Mrs. Keith attended the Florida School of Massage in Gainesville, Florida and became a Florida Licensed Massage Therapist and has been the owner and operator of Keith Relaxation Massage Studio for over 26 years. In 1985, Mrs. Keith had the opportunity to teach infant massage to the first surrogate mother and her sister (mother) In the comfort of her living room. In 1994, Mrs. Keith was honorably appointed by the late Governor Chiles of Florida to serve on the Board of Massage for two terms. Mrs. Keith has presented numerous workshops and presentations on Infant Massage and Therapeutic Massages at various health fair events, and TV programs. Throughout the years of Mrs. Keith’s practice, she was the massage therapist for a couple of the governor’s wives. As an educator for thirty years, Mrs. Keith retired May 31, 2006 from the Leon County School System. Mrs. Keith is in the movie “Recount” as an onlooker and a protestor. The movie was filmed in November 2007 in Jacksonville and Tallahassee, Florida. In 2008, Mrs. Keith was honored as a 2008 Gold Star Honoree for the National Hook-Up of Black Women, Inc. In 2009, she was the keynote speaker for 2009 Annual Gold Star Awards Program. Mrs. Keith is a member of the Capital City Toastmasters, Early Childhood Association of Florida, the Florida Children’s Forum, FAMU Alumni Association, Florida State Massage Therapist Association and the Leon County Retired Teachers Association.

DR. DOROTHY SINGLETON Lorene K. Robinson is a native of Dover, Delaware and currently serves as Director of Alumni Affairs at her alma mater, Delaware State University. She began her career at DSU in 1980 as an assistant director and editor of the monthly newsletters, quarterly magazine and managed a variety of alumni outreach events, initiatives, and programs. Lorene maintained her role as assistant director or alumni affairs at DSU for nine years. In the 10th year she was promoted to associate director. On the heels of the long-awaited promotion, Lorene immediately moved on to another institution, Wesley College, where she advanced to Director of Alumni Relations and the Annual Fund. She enjoyed a five-year tenure at Wesley, where she was able to head a Parents’ association, advise a student organization and chair two major, high-profile programs; capacities in which she excelled and continued to grow as a professional. After serving five successful years, Lorene returned to her alma mater, in 1995, to advance the work began in her former capacity there. Of the myriad functions and roles her professional life has

imparted, Lorene has most enjoyed working in direct contact with colleagues and students; especially students. In the early years, one of her responsibilities was the management of a student alumni organization, a job she loved. Several of her student mentees went on to assume roles as student leaders and, later, as executives in the workforce. A true proponent of higher education and mentoring, Lorene has been blessed through her work in the institutional advancement field to interact with hundreds of students and several colleagues who have, in turn, enriched her life . “It is rewarding connecting with people and especially young people.” says Lorene, “Seeing the light emitted from the eyes, of one who realizes they can reach for and achieve a goal…discern just how brilliant they really are…makes it all worthwhile; makes it all golden.” “When someone comes to you, years later, prosperous and healthy and happy,” she adds, “…and they remember who you are and, maybe, a little lesson shared…that’s a blessing. This is what life is all about.” Lorene is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Theta Zeta Zeta Chapter in Dover, where she has held several positions and currently serves as advisor to the Zeta Amicae of Dover, an auxiliary of the sorority.

REVERAND HERMAN MASON Reverend Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr. is a native of Atlanta, Georgia, where he received his Bachelors of Arts degree in Communications and History from Morris Brown College. He went on to receive Masters Degrees in AfricanAmerican Studies and Library and Information Science from Clark Atlanta University in 1989. That same year, he was also awarded his certification in Archival Studies from the Archives Institute of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library. Reverend Mason began his career in 1983 working with

the Herndon Home Museum, Atlanta Georgia, where he interpreted the history of the Herndon Family and the Atlanta Life Insurance Company. In 1986, he worked for the US Department of Interior interpreting the historical significance of the Martin Luther King family with the King Center Library and Archives. From 1987 to 1992, Reverend Mason worked for the Atlanta Fulton Public Library as the Black Studies Librarian and Archivist for the Special Collections Department. His work with the library involved developing strategies for identification and procurement of archival collections on African-Americans in Atlanta, the state of Georgia and the Southeast region. He is also Founder and President of Digging it Up, Incorporated, a nationally recognized African-American Research and Consulting firm in addition, he is the

National Archivist for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Morris Brown College. Reverend Mason has authored several books and produced various videos. Reverend Mason was initiated into Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated on April 4, 1982 (the anniversary of the death of Dr. King), at Morris Brown College. A life member of the fraternity, he made history in 1989 when at age 27, he became the youngest member to

receive the coveted honor of National Alumni Brother of the Year. In spite all his accomplishments, Reverend Mason’s greatest joy comes in pastoring the St. James C.M.E. Church in Washington, Georgia

MR. WARREN G. LEE Warren G. Lee, Jr., is man dedicated to making a difference in the lives of black people. He is committed to seeing all people treated as equals, just as God intended. Through his tenacity, charisma, integrity and commitment to serve mankind, he has many personal and professional accomplishments and has earned awards in both his business and civic areers. Lee is currently a financial management consultant based in Dallas, Texas, where he is the principal in the firm of Warren Lee & Associates. He works with small and medium size companies in the areas of organizational design, profit planning, taxation, and administrative logistics. Warren has more than 20 years of experience in his practice areas. He also works with churches and other religious organizations in ministry and administrative development. An active community leader, Mr. Lee is a member of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, Irving Branch NAACP, Metro Crest Chamber of Commerce and the

Dallas Community College District Accounting Advisory Committee. He is a member of the Mount Pisgah Baptist Church where he serves on the Deacon Board, chairs the Ministry Leaders’ Roundtable, and has been Trustee chairman, Sunday school teacher and Evangelical Choir president. Mr. Lee currently serves as the 38th Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Prior to becoming Grand Basileus, he served as First Vice Grand Basileus (four years), Grand Keeper of Finance (six years), Second Vice Grand Basileus (two years), and undergraduate representative (two years). As a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Mr. Lee has served on most chapter, district and international committees. Mr. Lee has also been instrumental in establishing several affiliate organizations under Omega’s corporate umbrella. He is married to the former Loraine Green and is the father and grandfather of three. His son, Warren III, is also an Omega.

INSPIRE MAGAZINE’S 2010

TOP 40 INSPIRERS

MS. CYNTHIA BUTLER-MCINTYRE Paul L. Griffin, Jr. a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, hails from Desoto, Texas, a suburb of Dallas, Texas, where he resides with his wife Belinda. Their younger daughter, Shannon, is a junior year at Hampton University in Virginia majoring in Business. Their older daughter, Ashley, is a graduate of President Griffin’s alma mater, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas. There, Paul obtained his Bachelor and Masters degrees in 1979 and 1983, respectively. It was also at T.S.U. that Paul became a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in 1975.

Professionally, Paul serves as Vice President, Strategic Accounts at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company, a global PreK-12 education company. Paul has been employed with the company since 1995. He has the responsibility to help develop and implement successful strategies to market and sell the company’s products to urban school districts in major cities across the country. He brings a strong business acumen, knowledge of major urban centers, an outstanding history of service to his Fraternity and his community, a dedication to scholarship and opportunities for individual advancement through quality education and a love of people. He is an effective team-builder and leader, who brings much energy, excitement and commitment to the responsibilities of International President, the chief executive officer of Phi Beta Sigma .Fraternity, Inc. of which he now serves.

MR. KENNETH GUZMAN Kenneth B. Guzman was born and raised in the beautiful city of Jacksonville, Florida,to Barry and Patricia Guzman. Immediately after graduating from High School, he enrolled at Florida State College in Jacksonville(FSCJ). He earned his Associates Degree in Business Management.While at FSCJ, Kenneth was inducted into the Honors Society, and took upon several leadership roles while on campus. He graduated with “High Honors”, and maintained a GPA of 3.9. Kenneth is also, a 2009 graduate of The Florida State University with two Bachelor Degrees one in Business Administration and Management. Kenneth plans to continue his educational career, and pursue a Master’s degree in Business and Administration.

TOP 40

Kenneth also finds time to contribute to the betterment of his local community. He has volunteered and mentored with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Playing a very crucial role in the lives of a young males. He’s also traveled a wide range of places within the Florida region, speaking words of encouragement to disadvantage high school students. Kenneth is seen as a mentor, scholar, and source of motivation by all who comes in contact with him. Kenneth currently holds the title “Director of Marketing” with the InspireUs Foundation. His goals are to increase the foundation’s brand awareness, enhance the quality of the services provided, and create an inspirational environment between the company and the target market. His Motto is, "Live by purpose, Don't waste your life."

INS PIRE RS

DR. EDDIE MOORE, JR. Dr. Moore currently serves as Director of Diversity at The Bush School ww.bush.edu) in Seattle, WA. Dr. Moore received his Ph.D. in Educational Policy and Leadership Studies at the University of Iowa. Dr. Moore is an ex-student athlete and remains committed to the influence of athletics and academics in the lives of all students. Dr. Moore holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Cornell College in Mount Vernon Iowa, in Political Science. He received his Masters of Arts in Educational Administration from Loras College in Dubuque Iowa. Recognized for his ability to motivate students of all ages

into action, Dr. Moore continues to be invited to teach/speak locally, nationally and internationally on issues related to diversity, cultural competency, white privilege, oppression and self-esteem (www.eddiemoorejr.com). Dr. Moore is an active member of Brothers of the Academy (BOTA) www.brothersoftheacademy.org and maintains an energetic, positive and caring attitude. Lastly, Dr. Moore is the founder and program director for the white privilege conference (www.uccs.edu/wpc).

YOU HAVE NOW GONE THROUGH

INSPIRE MAGAZINEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TOP 40 INSPIRERS 2010

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[ mind over matter ]

tress is generally accepted as a fact of life by most people; however, not all people experience similar events with identical responses. Even so, persistent stress levels can affect people in a universal way, both psychologically and physically (Oman, Hedberg, Thoresen, 2006). Regardless of the source, not all stress is necessarily “bad,” but most people still could benefit from some kind of stress reduction. Finding ways to reduce persistent or recurring stress, the kind that leads to exhaustion, frustration, fatigue, or burnout for example, can improve psychological and physiological well being.

Stress occurs when the mind and/or body demands (or seems to demand) more than the mind/body has the resources to supply. The difference between healthy stress (the kind that serves to build or improve functioning) and unhealthy stress (the kind that serves to wear out or decrease functioning) is sometimes hard to identify. Mental and emotional stress are distinctly different from physical and biological stress, yet similarities also exist, and effects on the mind and body cannot be ignored (Smith, Richardson, Hoffman, and Pilkington, 2005).

cisions. An argument with a peer, spouse, or employer would not automatically indicate disaster (real or imagined), and even if intense feelings surfaced, a sense of safety and security remains. The stress manifests in the conflict as a matter to be addressed and resolved (see “Resolving Conflict,” Honor Cord, February, 2007). When difficult discussions, conversations, or decisions repetitively cause someone to have distorted presumptions of ended relationships, disastrous consequences, and unfounded doubts about safety and security, that person is experiencing an unhealthy level of stress. Stress reduction is important for multiple reasons, individually and collectively. Stress affects physical and mental health (Smith, Allred, Morrison, and Carlson, 1989); employability (Harris and Arendt, 1998); is a source of mental illness diagnoses, addictions, and relapse (Goeders, 2004); and literally costs the United States billions of dollars per year from resulting and secondary illnesses and death (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2004; Stinchcomb, 2004). So what are some ways to reduce and prevent stress?

In a biological sense, stress might be exemplified in the runner who has had enough rest, food, and water intake to exert sufficient amounts of energy to run for thirty minutes. There will be degrees and levels of stress during the thirty-minute run, but generally the preparations (inputs of rest, food, and water) will equal the exertions (outputs of running for a half an hour). If the runner decides to increase the time to forty-five minutes, something usually makes the forty-sixth minute unlikely or impossible (dehydration, dizziness, shin splints, or maybe even chest pains).

From a psychological perspective, healthy stress might be exemplified in a person’s ability to experience a semblance of comfort, satisfaction, or emotional balance in the midst of difficult discussions, conversations, or de104 InSpire 104 InSpire

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Gather information and ask questions so that you are fully informed about events that are occurring that seem stressful. Information helps reduce stress by reducing the number of unknowns in any given situation — disseminating information has been shown to lower stress in those who distribute and in those who receive it (Kitamura, 2005).

Exercise (McEwen, 1998). Linking stressful events (real or perceived) to physical activity is one way to directly and positively combat what otherwise might be harmful levels of stress.

Watch what you eat. Too much fat not only hits the waistline but also affects cognitive functioning and alters the level of neurotransmitters in the brain. If levels of three key stress combatants — dopamine,

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norepinephrine, and serotonin — drop (Yehuda, Rabinovitz and Mostofsky, 2005), what do you suppose happens with stress?

Share responsibility. People often assume that they are solely responsible for whatever happens. Remember that almost everything you do occurs in a larger system of other people, and under the direction of other policies and guidelines (Stouch, 2004). Nothing is ever singly your fault (or theirs). Talk to those closest to you. Intimacy has many benefits. Practical support from those close to you can reduce fatigue and increase vigor (Shrout, Herman, Bolger, 2006). Find meaning and seek opportunity. Reducing stress requires hardiness, which occurs when situations provoke two key questions: How can I find meaning in this issue and where are the opportunities (Lambert, Lambert and Yamase, 2003)?

Use spiritual tools and practices. Mental recitation of inspirational passages, putting others first by helping them, reading inspirational literature, setting priorities, and slowing down all help to reduce stress (Oman, Hedberg and Thoresen, 2006). Contact a therapist. Family violence, substance abuse, terminal illness, and other high-stress issues often require combined treatment methods. Talk therapy assists in reducing stress even if a medical doctor (or other health care professional) seems like the only option (Smith, Richardson, Hoffman and Pilkington, 2005).

Whether stress is biological or psychological, you still need to find ways to reduce it. Remembering that stress is not inherently bad and that it is both necessary and often unavoidable can help you to see value in addressing the inevitable. When stress leads to fatigue (tiredness with an inability to rest or recover), burnout (everything is going poorly, even on the seemingly good days), frustration (reasonable desires and goals are unattainable), and feelings of being overwhelmed (starting anything new seems impossible because of insurmountable barriers or limitations), it’s a good bet that stress reduction should be your immediate focus.

Kurt LaRose is a Clinical Social Worker and Therapist working in private practice in Florida assisting individuals and families in crisis. He also develops, implements, and maintains counseling programs and contracts with school districts to provide counseling services to youth ages four to eighteen. LaRose is an Adjunct Professor and Field Liaison Faculty member for the Division of Social Work at Thomas University.

not all stress is necessarily “bad,” but most people still could benefit from some kind of stress reduction

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Salutes African-American Women Aviators

Who Blazed a Trail of Proud Accomplishments for Our Nation. Bessie Coleman 1892-1926

Popularly known as “Queen Bess,” Coleman was the first African-American (male or female) to become an airplane pilot, and the first American of any race to hold an international pilot’s license. In 1989, Bessie was honored by the First Flight Society for her achievement as a “first” in aviation’s development. In 1995, she was honored with her image on a U.S. postage stamp, and was inducted into the Women in Aviation Hall of Fame.

Wilma Brown 1906-1992

In addition to being an aviator, Wilma Brown was an activist, educator and the first African-American officer in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). She and her husband, Cornelius, formed the Coffey School of Aeronautics to train African-American pilots. She was the first female African-American aviator to be awarded a commercial pilot’s license.

Ida Van Smith 1917-

Smith’s interest in aviation began when she was a young child. However, she delayed the pursuit of her dream for nearly fifty years. After raising four children and teaching for many years, she took her first lesson in a single-engine airplane at the age of 50. Smith became a licensed pilot and ground instructor, and was instrument rated (which means she was allowed to fly during inclement weather.) Supporting Women in Aviation | flytallahassee.com

You Can Make a Difference! Be a Foster or Adoptive Parent Right now, there are thousands of New Jersey children who need the warmth and guidance of a family. Parents are needed for all children but especially siblings and children with special medical conditions. So please ...

Open your heart and your home For more information contact:

1-877- NJ FOSTER www.njfoster.org

1-800- 99 ADOPT

www.njadopt.org

Department of Children and Families Division of Youth and Family Services

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CONGRATULATIONS to Inspire Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Annual Scholarship Dinner Dance Continued success and best wishes for many years to come.

-Donald M. Payne Jr., Councilman-At-Large, Newark Municipal Council

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e m i T e n i h c a M

[ poetry ]

By Dan Jones,

Jr.

e s to th row at m fe obstacles ha li t ha w e se d ish i coul ung Sometimes i w when i was yo ayed one Star ti ng from wou ld have st i er ag en te a e to be ca lled to the mov ies as a pr iv ileag t money to go ge s nd ke ee If i know n it w w e hool and on th out but go to sc ab ry ow ned or w to li ke a mov ie i Nothi ng as w fe li y m h w is e bad ones fast forward th d an es m ti ind the good es So i could rew om younger ey se W hen look in fr eople to despi not too many p e, w ings id ec d to h muc ep flappi n your ke s ju ld or You dont have w e th er ythi ng, ith no wor ry in el you know ev that glides, w fe r u ai e yo th se in au d ec ir b Your li ke a b ck is patience be 1 , but wat you la ss ne at re t wat it ta kes to g ou iz n nd fi tio to na t ti ec es Your d but negl to be an adult income Your in a rush ca r, no steady No house, no ep in some it before you st sh of ld or w a ize your in e and planted You don’t real l its set in ston ti un ed nt ra g r before u bark ng you ta ke fo aw s, don’t bite th it e or Li fe is somethi ef b ’t cook the food y of my black n to crawl, don k put soo man in ru u th u yo e yo e or or ef b bef Ta ke ti me d s, and acti ng uder than wor lo ars k b d ea in sp eh ns b bruthas because actio p, eter nity to slee ll mash or they get an e breaks you’ th nt oi p e m so up, im su re at of li fe to g row ne la st fa e th mov ing in ti nted to crash ru n out of if not your des your going to s ce oi ch ng ro mak ing the w s, if you keep ce an ch d an s s oice machi ne chance Li fe is about ch in for my ti me ch ar se l il st im and thats why nt to old age, fa in a om fr g, th in Li fe is a ti mely

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[ poetry ]

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FINLEY FOTOS CHAD FINLEY PHOTOGRAPHY • • • •

Fashion Editorial Beauty Lifestyle

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[inspiring books]

E B R O L O R T N O D C E L L O R T N CO

by Brashaad Mayweather

The future is in your hands. Control or be Controlled gives the political side to football along with all the ins and outs of sports starting from a child all the way up until when a college athlete is trying to go pro. This book lists many tips and advice for an athlete to use along their athletic journey such as how to find a high school, how they would go about looking for a college and complete recruiting process to going pro. Some other tips which are extremely beneficial and can be the money makers for an athlete would be the information about how to find an agent and gain access into pro football camps, tryouts, combines, how to do the drills that the coaches will have an athlete doing, along with how to contact the coaches and scouts. Those are just a few things to look out for in the bookâ&#x20AC;Ś All of the information in this book was gathered from interviewing Agents, NFL scouts, NFL coaches, NFL players, CFL Scouts, CFL players, AFL coaches, AFL players and of course my personal experiences along the way. This is not just a football guide, a lot of the techniques and information can be used in other sports and on a daily basis in life.

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E D I S R E H T O E H T W O L L I P OFTHE by Cyril Gillion

They say that time heals everything. But for Angel Inghram – a girl who saw her mother get murdered by the hands of her stepfather – time becomes the adversary. Prison alone is not enough justice to put Angel’s fury to rest, but it’s enough determination for her to make a leap towards law school, her only sanity for escaping the insanity. Then comes William Randolph, the lover in disguise, the first man capable of making Angel step outside that box of hatred. With a sexy physique and eyes that can make a river blush, William has incomparable looks, the charisma, and being sixteen years her senior, he’s equivalent to the father figure that Angel never had in her life. But don’t get it twisted, because with age comes many skeletons, and in this saga, William has more skeletons in his closet than suits. A native of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and an alumnus of Florida A&M University, Cyril Gillion is adding his own spice to the pot of literature, first starting with his groundbreaking novel, The Other Side of The Pillow. He published and funded his first book at the age of twenty-four, and since then he’s been multi-tasking between writing two novels and building his own publishing house, CG Publishing Inc., a company in search for hot new writers that share his passion. But he doesn’t plan on stopping at literature. Cyril is ultimately looking to take his writing to the big screen, a plan in which he’s currently seeking film production for the book, The Other Side of the Pillow. The author has been featured in newspaper outlets, radio, and various websites, and when he’s not writing, he’s constantly devising ideas for the next big project. Although he receives numerous amounts of emails, Cyril makes it a priority to respond to all of his readers. Visit the author’s website at www.cyrilgillion.com.

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[inspiring books]

R O F N O R Y I E S R VI ANC VE C ECO R r the a e ayw M ard h s a r by B

The new Visions for Cancer Recovery® DVD offers an encouraging solution. Visions - created by a Minneapolis nurse and two-time cancer survivor - provides patients with 20 minutes of rest, relaxation and visualization, as well as a sense of hop e and empowerment. The most powerful aspect of the DVD is visualization of “apoptosis,” the rarely viewed process in which the body’s healthy cells attack cancer cells. The DVD’s creator Mary Hallman uses her soothing voice to guide cancer patients through a visualization exercise in which they envision their bodies fighting off cancer at the cellular level. Mayo Clinic Offers Visions to Patients “Visions provides patients with a sense of control, as well as a relaxing meditation,” says Sarah Christensen, M.A. of Mayo Clinic's Section of Patient Education. “I’ve had the privilege of meeting Mary Hallman, and believe her work can be an important element in our patients' paths to recovery by allowing them to be active participants in their own care.” Other medical and integrative health centers in the United States and Canada are also offering it to patients. The program is intended to be used alongside prescribed medical treatments. Hallman developed the concept for Visions for Cancer Recovery while practicing her own deep breathing, relaxation and visualization techniques during treatments for a rare fallopian tube cancer. Visions for Cancer Recovery offers spectacular footage of the natural world, an original musical score and empowering images of natural cancer cell elimination. Visions is available for $24.95 at www.Amazon.com or www.integral-visions.com or 1-800-541-0071.

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& S E M Y H R , S T A BE E F I L M O O R S S A CL by Marc Lamont Hill

For over a decade, educators have looked to capitalize on the appeal of hip-hop culture, sampling its language, techniques, and styles as a way of reaching out to students. But beyond a fashionable hipness, what does hip-hop have to offer our schools? In this revelatory new book, Marc Lamont Hill shows how a serious engagement with hip-hop culture can affect classroom life in extraordinary ways. Based on his experience teaching a hip-hop-centered English literature course in a youth culture, identity, and educational processes, Hill offers a compelling case for the power of hip-hop in the classroom. In addition to driving up attendance and test performance, Hill shows how hip-hop based educational settings enable students and teachers to renegotiate their classroom identities in complex, contradictory, and often unpredictable ways. Marc Lamont Hill is Associate Professor of English Education and Anthropology at Teachers College, Columbia University. He has lectured widely and provides regular commentary for media outlets like NPR, the Washington Post, Essence Magazine, and the New York Times. He is also a political contributor for Fox News Channel, where he appears regularly to provide counterpoint on programs such as The Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly Factor and Hannity & Colmes. Prior to joining Fox News, Dr. Hill was a regular guest on CNN, MSNBC, and CourtTV. His award winning daily blog is located on his website: www.marclamonthill.com

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[inspiring books]

FEEDERS: THE CREATION OF A SECRET SEX SOCIET Y After having a fe w wild after-part ies and spontane experiences, Jam ous erotic el and friends em ba rk on a m secret society in ission to create a a college town to unite both youn women who shar g men and e the same desire s of being involv an alternative lif ed in such estyle. A secret un de rw or ld is Jamel as he recrui created by ts and selects th e few and highly candidates to be chosen come the first in itiates. During th process of creatin e g this unspoken underworld and its first initiation, having they all face cert ain trials and tribulations that may abruptly en d their journey. Relationships ar e at stake, hearts may be broken, erotic fantasies an d secrets may be revealed, and th hopeful covenant e is threatened of ever existing. You man, your wom r an, best friend, an d cl as sm at e very well be a Fe could eder, but you won ’t have a clue or will ever know un less you join. What’s your Fant asy?

H T I A F THE REALM

by Jay Elliot

by Dr. C.L. Spells

The Fa it h R ea lm is a n atmosphere liken repet of blessings, it ive v ictory hope, coven in a ny a rea ca n’t miss o a nt, a nd ass of life as to r when Pre u ra nce. Ma b ei s. ng in the z O if ou r swag ny people one. Sort o ger has been ba ma gave his fi rst sp f like when K e eches. But deflated by ou r fa it h is ob e what do we consta nt ch sha ken. d a llenges a n The Fa it h R d in these tr o when it seems as ea lm w il l ca y ing econo use you to g ive you th mic times encounter fa e revelation it to h a nd con fiden sponse. a nswer unsc hedu led cr is ce in fea rf u l situat ions is in life th Th is book e at dema nd a nd x pla ins the a n p d o who canno immed iate t a nd w il l n wer a nd secrets of ma rein ot a llow th such as the e inconsisten ta ining a positive ou Law of Focu tlook on life cies of life s. The thin Dr. C.L . S . S om e on e to over ta k gs that we pells Sr. is e th th em, by usin th in e k ministr y th founder a n , sp e a k g st rateg ies , a nd do a re d pastor of at specia liz a c lea r ind ic Ha rvest La es in empo at wer ing peo nd M inistr ion of who ple to beco a nd what y me hater pro ies Internat iona l in H a mpton, V.A ou become. of a nd pu rp . a n e x plosi ose d riven. 118 ve teaching InSpire

By Dr. John Igwebuike

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A wise man, Solomon, wrote: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Men sharpen men like iron sharpens iron.â&#x20AC;? This radiant truth came to light to me on a recent flight home from a speaking engagement in Iowa. I had the pleasure of having as a seatmate a young, successful, African-American gentleman who worked for one the leading corporations in America. He had worked for this company as an engineer and later manager and now plant manager. On a smooth flight to Dallas-Fort Worth Airport we engaged in a very stimulating, power-packed conversation on success and what it takes to be successful. We both agreed that success is not something that comes easy, but requires hard, hard work, and more work. I shared with him that I was a student of success and gave my ideas on the topic. He in turn provided some very illuminating ideas on the topic. But, what was more is that the combined ideas we shared were greater than our individual ideas each of us shared. I took copious notes of our discussion, synopsized them into seven truths, and offer them for your consideration. I hope they sharpen your mind as well. 120

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Protect your purpose. The natural reaction of many people--especially those who have not found a passion and purpose in their lives--is to feel threatened or intimidated or simply to be dismissive when you are pursuing a worthwhile purpose in your life. It is as though, your striving for success, or your achieving goals in your life sets a mirror before their own eyes reflecting what they have not done themselves. In the book, The Magic of Believing, Claude Bristol wisely advises the reader of the importance of guarding their dreams and protecting their purpose. He noted that sharing of own dreams “dissipates” one’s purposeful energies. Energies sent telling the world about one’s aspirations, dreams, and goals could be far better invested to the achievement of one’s goals by using the energy toward goal accomplishment. Bristol’s idea is not unusual: Jesus made similar admonitions, for example, informing his disciples “to tell know one about the manifestations of his purpose that they had seen.” Former Morehouse College President, Benjamin Elijah Mays often told his students to protect their dreams by “go[ing] quietly and achieving them so that way the dreams will tell themselves.” Bristol, Jesus, and Mays were instructing of the importance of being discrete with your dreams, guarding your goals, and protecting your purpose.

Push away negativity from your life- It’s been said that there are two types of people in the world—positive or negative. Look at your coterie of friends. If someone is constantly belittling your dreams, then recognize that person as a dream buster and a drawback to your achieving your purpose. If someone is bringing out your self-destructive tendencies, acknowledge that the person is not a friend. Accept that you must push away such negative people from your life. Life is too short to waste a single second on negative people. Life is too unpredictable to spend it with toxic people. Life is too precious to spend it with those who tear you down, rather than build you up. Therefore prune away negative people, habits, thinking, work, etc. from your life. Understanding this commandment will help you understand why some people seem more interested in telling you why you can’t accomplish things as opposed to encouraging you to achieve what you actually could accomplish. Understanding this commandment will also help you understand why you owe it to yourself to tune out the voice around telling you to pull back on your passion, slow down your success, and diss your dreams. Understanding this point will finally assist you to decide to push away negativity from your life.

Put positive people into your life. – Too often we feel we have to face our problems alone. We are uncomfortable admitting our pain, our inexperience, our lack of resources, or even our incompetence. Pride gets in the way. When we shut others out, we simultaneously shut ourselves in. Too many of us are

trying to cope alone, when we would be much better off if we would just reach out for help. If we’ve followed the previous proposition (above), this truth opens the way for us to receive positive people into our lives. Don’t be too proud to ask for help, particularly from those who are wiser, older, and more experienced, and possess an optimistic outlook. Pull into your life positive, caring, supportive, networking, productive and likeminded people who nurture you and your dreams.

If we have the mistaken idea that, in order to be adult and mature, we need to go it alone, we should remember that even the most successful and talented athletes have coaches who guide, encourage, and instruct them. we need coaches, mentors, and role models too. It is important that we learn from the example of others, emulate the wise activity of those who have gone down the road we are traveling. If we don’t already have a mentor whom we admire and trust when the going gets tough and at whose feet we can receive wise guidance. As we continue the circle of mentoring and sisterhood by extending a hand to a younger woman, young man. [as we continue expanding the circle of giving by extending a hand to a young man, a gang member, a homeless person].

Pretend until you possess it.- If you have a goal towards which you are working, act as though you’ve already attained that goal. Visualize it, feel it, accept it and give thanks for it. As a man thinketh . . . so is he. As he continues to think, so shall he remain. So much energy has been expended on all too many of us undermining our confidence and picking apart our faith in ourselves that sometimes we forget that faith does not depend on the belief or comments of others. Faith does not depend on having a list of accomplishments. Faith does not depend on what can be tangibly touched or palpably perceived. “Faith is the sub-

stance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1). There is so much more within each of us waiting to be manifested that is yet unseen. When it comes to our potential there is so much yet to be revealed, and it will alas be revealed if we at least pretend until we possess the goal we seek. We must hold the visual image of what we want in our head until we hold the actual image in our hands. We must act until we attain it, fake it until we make it; and pretend until we possess it.

Pursue your purpose, not some else’s. Inside every human being is a deep call of destiny to do something distinctively worthwhile with our lives. All of us have a unique purpose, a raison d’etre for which we are called. We therefore do not have enough time to worry about the gifts others have vis-à-vis how they compare to our own. True success is not measured by how much you have done or accomplished compared to what others have done or accomplished. True success is what you have done compared to what you could have done with the gifts, talents, and potential we’ve been given. In other words, living to the maximum means competing with you—and you alone. Purposeful living means living up to your own true standards and capabilities. But note: recognize that being true to yourself and your purpose is not the same thing as being true some stereotype. Today many are conforming to their environment, trying to live up to what is in reality a manufactured, media-hyped, materialistic image of instant success as rappers, ball players, and gangstas. Yet, all that glitters is not gold. We desperately alternatives to the pop-culture’s offerings. We need to uphold those purposeful persons who promote educational, spiritual, social achievement, not berate it. We desperately need individuals who will be true to their unique purpose, not that of others.

Setup for a Comeback, credits his success to the fact that he came to “know when ‘no’ means ‘yes’.” While touring the country as a successful singer and commercial songwriter, he arrived to a performance only to learn that he was being replaced. This “no” to singing was actually a “yes” to his dream to be a motivational speaker. Many people give up on their goals the minute they encounter a “no.” This “no” takes many forms: “No, you didn’t pass the test.” “No’, you didn’t get the promotion. “No, you didn’t get into the college.” “No, you didn’t get chosen to the team.” In reality, these “no’s” may actually mean “yes.” Persistent, purposeful people know that “no” may in essence mean: “No, you didn’t pass this time.” “No, you didn’t get promoted but there is another opportunity.” “No, you didn’t get into the program, but you can still get in later.” “No, you didn’t get on the team this year but you can make it next year.” Or, “No” may mean “not today.” “No” may mean “not now.” Today’s “no” can be tomorrow’s “Yes!”, “Sure!”, “Absolutely”, “undoubtedly”, or “certainly”—But, such repackaged “Nos” can alone become their true selves (Yes), when we learn to persist and prevail. And when we learn to know when “no” means “yes.”

Finally, put time to purposeful use. Time is the greatest resource to accomplishment. All accomplishment requires time. Purposeful people know that time is the greatest gift in which and with which to accomplish and fulfill their passion, potential and possibilities. Just as there is no harvest with out the seed, no steel without carbon, no up without a down, there is not success without time. Time is always moving, therefore the question becomes: “Are you?” Perhaps the unknown poet put it best:

I’ve only got a minute. Only sixty seconds in it. Forced upon me, I cannot refuse it, I did not seek it, I did not choose; But it’s up to me to use it. I must suffer if I lose it, Give account if I abuse it. Just a tiny little minute, But my eternity is in it.

Persist until you prevail- Motivational speaker and author, Willie Jolley, in his book, A Setback is a 122

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As the crowd cheered with anticipation, watching to see what the seven-deep “Strikers All-Stars would bring to the competition, the Strikers approached the stage eager to prove that they belonged on MTV’s Americas Best Dance Crew (ABDC). With their adrenaline pumping at an all time high, and prickles of sweat slowly forming in the palms of their hands, the Striker’s

All-Stars from Florida A&M University approached the stage on ABDC (season three) for the first time. They had one goal in mind, to show up and show out. After winning competitions on BET’s 106 & Park, and Showtime at the Apollo, the Strikers All-Stars, a seven-man unit composed of the FAMU Strikers’ strongest performers entered MTV’s ABDC --an American television show featuring street dance crews from the U.S.--to take their talent and expertise a step further. In 1989, at FAMU, The Strikers All-Stars were established and considered to be of the top stepping crews in the South and are known for their versatile style and precise movements. Their style incorporates free-style, hip-hop dance moves, and a broad range of choreography. In an exclusive interview with Edwin “bowling ball” Bennett—one of the seven members from the Strikers All-Stars-- he gave some insight on the experience for the Strikers during the competition. “In the beginning people doubted us,” said Bennett. “In the beginning we were like ok, we want to get far in the competition, but as the competition went on we were like ok we want to win this,” said Bennett

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The Strikers along with nine other dance crews were assigned weekly routines to perform, and be judged on. After the fifth episode, and a slip in choreography by one of the members, the Strikers All-Stars were the sixth crew to be eliminated. The Strikers All-Stars were determined not to let the elimination be the end of their dreams. “At the end of the day we felt like we gave it to them, but things happen for a reason and we are continuing to move forward,” said Bennett.

“

A lot of people have been inspired by what we’ve done. Not only do we entertain, but we inspire people.

Bennett went on to further explain what went on in the competition, he didn’t, however, go into detail about everything that went on behind the scenes. He did say that some people look at them and assume things, but people do not realize everything they went through on ABDC. “I wouldn’t change anything. I wouldn’t expect people to understand what we went through because they didn’t have to go through it,” said Bennett. One positive thing that came out of the competition for the Strikers was the brotherly bond they each formed with each other. “We’re like septuplets,” Bennett explained. “This competition definitely made us closer, everyone can do their own thing but we realize we all need each other.” The most important thing however, was being able to be an inspiration to others around the world. In an interview with Daniel from Buddy TV, Tallie “Ace” Brinson—a member from the Strikers All-Stars said the sacrifice and stress of the competition was all worth it. “A lot of people have been inspired by what we’ve done. Not only do we entertain, but we inspire people,” said Brinson. The competition with ABDC was only the beginning of what’s to come for the Strikers. According to some members from the Strikers, the group’s future looks bright. After the group left the

show they were provided with plane tickets by MTV to return home, but instead made sacrifices and decided to stay in Los Angeles, where the competition was held, to network. All six of the members are in LA except one. Making the decision to stay in LA after leaving the competition has provided the Strikers with a lot of opportunity. The crew views the opportunities, which have been placed before them, as blessings. “A lot of people come out here to L.A. to go after their dreams, and their dreams are being deferred, but ours are turning into goals,” admitted Bennett. The Strikers have a number of new projects they are currently working on. They will be working with different artists and possibly incorporating some acting. In September of 2009, the group will appear on one of Nickelodeon’s shows called the Jump Around Dance show. They will be featured in “D. Woods”, from Making A Band’s new video called Legalize Me, as well as Keri Hilson’s new video “Get Your Money Up” featuring Keisha Cole and Trina. Without the crippling obstacles of stumbling blocks deterring them from reaching their full potential, the future of the Strikers looks bright. Their just continuing to do what they love to do and what they do best, and that is entertaining, inspiring others and DANCE.

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[ higher education ]

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orris Chestnut’s career has paralleled the film i n d u s t r y ’s belated realization that audiences enjoy films that present a more balanced view of contemporary African-American life: he made his debut in the early 1990s in the seminal urban culture film, Boyz ‘N the Hood, but later found success as a handsome lead in several romantic comedies. Chestnut has often been described as one of Hollywood’s new breed of black heartthrobs, with his “cool liquid eyes, a killer smile, and a fleet, almost musical way with dialogue,” noted Entertainment Weekly reviewer Owen Gleiberman, each of which “hints at something held back, a hidden force behind his lightness. That force is what makes him a potentially major actor.”

nightclub owner.

Later that year he appeared in a movie made for the Disney Cable channel, The Ernest Green Stow. in the title role. The work was a dramatization of the events resulting from the landmark 1954 U.S. Supreme Court order that declared all-black public schools unconstitutional. The real Ernest Green was one of nine students transferred, in 1957, to all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. The transferred students were met with jeering crowds who attempted to bar them from entry. Even the Arkansas governor opposed their transfer, and sent National Guard troops to keep them out; President Dwight D. Eisenhower countered with federal troops. “Chestnut turns in a sturdy performance as the tenacious Green, who as the senior took on a leadership role, encouraging persistence and the ‘creative non-violence’ advocated by Martin Luther King Jr.,” remarked Multichannel News writer Rod Granger.

Chestnut was born in Cerritos, California on January 1, 1969. He took acting courses in college along with his business studies at California State University’s Northridge campus. He claimed to have never planned on making a career of acting, and described himself to Ebony as “really the shy type.” His career path was affirmed when he made his feature film debut in 1991 with Boyz ‘N the Hood, the first effort from a young writerdirector named John Singleton. Chestnut was cast alongside Ice Cube and Cuba Gooding, Jr., as one of two brothers in a coming-of-age tale set in violence-torn South-Central Los Angeles. Gooding’s character lives with his former military man father, but Chestnut’s Ricky and his brother are raised by their single mother, and know no real strong male presence in their lives. Ricky marries young, excels in athletics, and aims for a college scholarship, but meets with a tragic, avoidable demise. National Review film critic John Simon faulted some of the performances, except Chestnut’s, and asserted that the actor “makes Ricky’s almost too-good-tobe-true goodness sweetly believable,” Simon gave Boyz ‘N the Hood high marks: “It accomplishes most of its bitter aims with unsensationalistic honesty.”

In the mid-1990s Chestnut appeared in the feature films Under Siege 2 and G.I. Jane, but returned to the small screen after an offer from ABC to star in a new hour-long drama. C- 16 that debuted in the fall of 1997. The title referred to a special Federal Bureau of Investigation unit that deals with kidnapping cases, hostage crises, and other such matters. Chestnut was cast as an earnest young rookie, Mal Robinson, whose off-duty life is troubled by his drugaddict brother.

Chestnut was next cast in a 1992 made-for-television movie, Street War, part of NBC s “In the Line of Duty” series about actual crime-file cases. The film starred Mario Van Peebles as a housing project police officer in Brooklyn, while Chestnut and Courtney B. Vance played the possible suspects in a slaying. Chestnut also won a plum role for the fall season in 1992 on Out All Night. a new sitcom that featured Patti LaBelle as a

Chestnut’s breakthrough role came in a 1999 romantic comedy, The Best Man, which starred Taye Diggs in the title role. Chestnut played the groom. a man who might soon discover that his best man once slept with his bride-to-be. The film was directed by Malcolm D. Lee, 128 128

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cousin of Spike, and earned rave reviews for its ensemble cast that included Nia Long and Sanaa Lathan. The wedding serves as an impromptu reunion for the group of college friends: Diggs plays a first-time novelist whose book and its scarcely concealed revelations threaten to undermine several friendships. Chestnut, wrote Newsweek critic David Ansen, plays “a pro running back as devoutly Christian as he is piggishly male chauvinist,” and Variety reviewer Emanuel Levy stated that the actor delivers “a strong and touching rendition of a jealously aggressive yet Bible-reading guy coerced to examine his double-standard ethics.” Levy called the film “well-mounted and engaging” and “an honorable addition to the reunion genre.”

Chestnut was next cast in another ensemble film, The Brothers (2001). Starring alongside Shemar Moore, D.L. Hughley, and Bill Bellamy, Chestnut plays a philandering physician. “Chestnut’s character is desperate for intimacy but deathly afraid of commitment, while Moore’s character is a reformed bachelor who’s about to tie the knot,” wrote Ebony’s Aldore Collier about the plot. Chestnut, a married man, admitted that he drew upon his own personal experience for the role. “There was one time in my life when I was commitment phobic, and I had to go back to that time and imagine what it was like,” he told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. In his review of the film, Entertainment Weekly’s

Gleiberman proclaimed himself “struck, much as I was when I saw the exuberant matrimonial comedy The Best Man. by the way that the heroes voice their amorous doubts and drives with a bemused, honestly libidinous, nonexploitative joy and self-perception, something that happens all too rarely in movies these days.” Chestnut was next slated to appear in a film about the infamous early 1970s Attica prison uprising in New York, The Killing Yard, as well as a feature-film thriller alongside Jeff Bridges and Noah Wylie titled Scene of the Crime. He talked about the positive changes in Hollywood that have taken place just during the decade of his career alone in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, agreeing that the film industry now offered black actors a far wider range of roles. From playing the good guy in a gangster film to one of the more unsympathetic characters in a film about four African-American professionals, Chestnut said he himself has evolved as an actor as well. “When I did ‘Boyz,’ I didn’t really know the whole dynamic of this industry and what it was about, and the little intricate things that the public doesn’t know goes on in this industry,” he told the Atlanta JournalConstitution, and described himself as a more self-assured player. “I know the industry, and I know how it works. I’m a veteran now, and I’m treated as such.”

“When I did ‘Boyz,’ I didn’t really know the whole dynamic of this industry”

During his recent visit to speak at the Indiana Commission on the Status of Black Men, Morris took time to answer a few questions: IM: Morris, you appear to really be making a mark in hollywood. What does it feel like?

MC: I feel truly blessed to be living within my purpose. I am honored to have the opportunity to get up everyday and have a career that for the most part, I enjoy. I’m getting to the point where they see me as a good actor, rather than just a good guy who can act. Some people make a career out of doing one thing, but I wanted to diversify my body of work. IM: What do you think about Independent Films?

MC: The thing about independent films, and you have to be very careful, because there are a gazillion independent films done every year, but then you don’t want to be a part of that one that goes straight to video because it hurts your marketability.

Q & A

IM: You are a noted actor, husband father. You have to at times share yourself with the world. How do you manage all of the demands?

MC: I have a very supportive wife who is understanding. She has her own career. I do not bring my career home with me, nor does she. We keep our olives very private. IM: What do you tell aspiring actors when they walk up to you and say they want to do what you do?

MC: Well, I do not proclaim to have all the answers, having survived in Hollywood, I might be able to offer a few perspectives. Be willing to work hard. Be willing to be persistent when the doors close—and many will close. Stay positive and enthusiastic to your craft.

Morris Chestnut is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. Winner of the 1998 Madden Bowl, beating other celebrity talent as well as NFL stars in a tournament of John Madden Football. Is an excellent Texas Hold 'Em poker player. Recently (2005) held his own against 6 established poker professionals in a made for TV tournament. 130 130

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w ith morris chestnut

[ health matters ]

By Courtney Cornwall

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ach person is unique with a different background, varying metabolism, lifestyle, and the list could go on. So, why are people convinced that a one size fits all diet like the South Beach Diet or Atkins Diet can address their unique health and wellness goals? It’s an unrealistic expectation that all of our needs can be met with a universal or one size fits all diet and fitness plan, usually created without the individual in mind. When making a diagnosis, doctors ask about social habits, activities and hobbies; to make a lifestyle change, those factors are just as important, if not more. So, why not apply these same methods to meeting our health and fitness goals? A health coach can be the link between meeting individual health and fitness goals, while applying their knowledge and experience to create a tailored program. Every January, fitness centers everywhere experience an increase in gym usage and new memberships, as we all try to become a “new person” for the New Year. We all have indulged in this ritual at one point or another, and it speaks to our collective inability to maintain and meet our prescribed health and fitness goals. Yet, year in and year out, we repeat the same cycle. Our commitment and dedication to healthier living fades and our gym memberships go underused as we become increasingly unmotivated or disinterested. The fact is diets, fitness classes, and personal training are not a way of life. These things can be molded into a person’s way of life but there is not a standard mold for everyone. To break this mold, a good health coach will impart tools and techniques that will make health and fitness a way of life. For example, my client Vicky has lost over 20 pounds in a year and looks and feels great. She will be the first to tell you there was not one particular day or instance when she remembers losing the weight; rather, my techniques helped her create a lifestyle suited for her. She, like others who follow the advice of a health coach, is less likely to put back on the weight. Vicky has not sustained results like these from any of the diets she tried over the years or the hours logged at the gym.

So what exactly is a health coach? A health coach is a person that utilizes nutrition and fitness knowledge to motivate and lead an individual through a tailored program to establish a healthy lifestyle. A health coach brings a holistic approach to solving health and fitness struggles. When looking for a good health coach, they should be a great leader and motivator. They should be creative, passionate, and able to relate and speak to you about where you are and how to achieve your health goals. I believe in coaching my clients to be winning athletes in the game of life.

To be a winning athlete you need drive and passion, not a specific set of skills or fitness level. To ensure each of my clients has that drive and passion, I share my experiences and talk to my clients to understand their lifestyle as a whole. I work to be that agent of change, to motivate and push when necessary, while also being their biggest cheerleader. We are all more motivated when we have a sense of accomplishment, so I celebrate small and large milestones alike with my clients. I prescribe a set of attainable health goals, such as eating frequently, and make suggestions that work with my client’s current lifestyle. Eating frequently,

anything from a handful of nuts to an apple every hour or hour and half has been shown to keep metabolism steady and improve the body’s functioning. Some of my most fit clients forget the importance of eating, so I take a “Back to Basics” approach at the start of each journey with a client.

How do you integrate a health coach into an already overstressed household budget? Look to your employer. Many companies big and small have begun investing in health and wellness that include working with health coaches like myself. Corporations are adding wellness programs to urge employees to adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce health care costs, decrease absenteeism, improve productivity and create a sense of team and community. In 2008, when MetLife surveyed companies with 10,000 or more employees, 60% had wellness programs, an increase of nearly 15% from 2005. In 2004, IBM created a financial incentive for employees to participate in their wellness programs. Eager to define the return on investment (ROI) for such a program, IBM recruited the Health Management Research Center at the University of Michigan to analyze the program’s benefits. Results showed that it saved about $80 million in reduced health claims, says Joyce Young, IBM’s director of well-being Petrecca, L. USA Today, June 19 2009). The trend for company sponsored or subsidized wellness programs is growing.

Recently, I was hired by a company in Virginia to revamp and reinvigorate their health and wellness program. Within weeks, I had over 20 employees routinely coming to fitness classes and my one-on-one health consultations week after week. In one year, the group collectively lost over 200 pounds and saw a 50% reduction in body fat. One of my most inspiring clients was Lisa. She had this to say about working with a health coach, “Our wellness program started a year ago in September. We have coaches who are there for us every week. We’ve had workouts and lunch and learns. It’s not just about losing weight, but about wellness in general. My main goal in participating in the wellness program was to get my diabetes in control. Right after our program started I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. So getting healthy was even MORE important! With the help of our wellness coaches, I managed to get through treatment, lose 29 lbs AND my A1c is in control! I really could not have done it without the program offered here.” To achieve lasting results, make real and substantive changes in your lifestyle, seek out a health coach either through your employer’s health and wellness program or through your community. Remember, we are all athletes in the game of life and we are the star player. For more information you may contact me, Courtney Cornwall, HYPERLINK “mailto:ccornwal@gmail.com” ccornwal@gmail.com and I can put you in touch with a health coach in your area.

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