Summer issue 2023 WELCOME TO THE

this is only a taste of the famous names noted in Wooley’s success story.

Dr. Kevin James is a true manifestation of the phoenix rising from the ashes, as his feature is a comeback story like no other. The Morris Brown College president details exactly how he was able to revive the Atlanta institution from $35M bankruptcy and loss of accreditation for nearly 20 years. Relying on historical occurrences as a guide, along with strategic goal-setting, President James accomplished what others believed to be impossible. Some of you may have even watched his journey via social media, as Dr. James documented the daily fight to restore the school, which made others want to join in on the mission. From aggressive fundraising to gaining the trust of the people who matter most, Dr. James was able to triple enrollment during the pandemic, and still shows no signs of slowing down. Read how Morris Brown College is aiming to be not only the best in ATL, but one of the top HBCUs in the nation.

Morris Brown isn’t the only HBCU making waves - Voorhees University (VU) is expanding, while Fisk University is making NCAA history. Since officially becoming a university only a short time ago, Voorhees is full speed ahead with its Becoming Beloved Community Initiative. Dr. Ronnie Hopkins (10th president) has acquired property to house the initiative which will greatly benefit the institution as well as the Denmark, SC community. Learn all about the new project, as Dr. Hopkins reflects on his experience attending an HBCU and desire to preach the importance of service to VU students. If you haven’t already seen them across your news feed, the Fisk University gymnastics team debuted with a bang. Our article highlights two team members who are alumni of Jack and Jill of America, and how their involvement in the organization inspired their decision to attend an HBCU.

And, obviously, we must highlight our fearless women leaders who are changing the world one transformative action at a time. Vice President Kamala Harris is strengthening relationships between the U.S. and foreign countries, starting with Ghana. VP Harris visited the nation to discuss improving the country’s democracy, women empowerment, and digital inclusion. The article notes plans for future collaborations with countries across the continent of Africa as well as information on economic advancement and entrepreneurship. Lastly, we are delivering a treat this issue with an article on HBCU and cultural icon, Johnnetta Cole. The notable scholar, activist and first Black woman president of Spelman College was awarded the 2021 National Humanities Medal by President Joe Biden. Discover more about the deep-rooted HBCU love within her family, and what inspired her career, championing for Black women.

Photographers

Editor and Co-CEO

Co-CEO

Layout and Design Editor Associate Editors

Antonio Fuondjing

White House Press

Dr. David Staten

Dr. Bridget Hollis Staten

Mia Salley

Amori Washington

Contributing Writers

Thurgood Marshall College Fund

Fisk University

Voorhees University

Morris College

Jackson State University

Morgan State University

Morris Brown College

Camren McKinney

Yolanda Rouse

All other photos were provided by the author.

Advertising Manager

Publisher Logo Design

Models

Dr. David Staten

Ericka Blount Danois

Princess Gadson

Keith Harriston

Dr. Crystal deGregory

Rob Knox

Ashleigh Fields

Nicholas Jackson

Lynita Mitchell

Alonda Thomas

Makesha L. Judson

Kinna Thomas

R. Wayne Woodson

Jaliah Robinson

Creative Consultants

Dr. Bridget Hollis Staten

Dr. Antoinette Hollis

Jordan Staten

Roderick Rogers

Esthervina Rogers

LaToya Ransom www.hbcutimes.com hbcutimes_

HBCU_Times

HBCU Times

Post and Courier

Mia Salley

Brandi Phillips

Kierra Carter

INSPIRED BY: ETHEL STATEN AND JORDAN STATEN