OCTOBER 2019 $120 RETAIL VALUE
4 Things
You Didn’t Know About HBCUs
5 Ways
to Educate yourself without going back to school
“Dear White People” and “Grown-ish” are Today’s “A Different World”
5 Must Watch Movies on the Black College Experience
Brown Sugar University
INSIDE THE
Brown Sugar
University Edition
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t’s Homecoming Season! Whether you’re reppin’ an alma mater or not, there’s one college you’re definitely a part of – Brown Sugar University. Now, this university is only for the movers and shakers and women who are determined to get things done. And in order to get those things done, you need the right gear to make it happen. In this Brown Sugar University edition, we’re paying an ode to our favorite college crew with our “A Different World” Cast T-Shirt. Dwayne, Whitley, Ron, Freddie, & Kim were living their best lives at Hillman and this tee is an homage to this crew of dynamic characters. Whether you’re confident like Whitley or woke like Dwayne, this box comes with all the essentials to be an official attendee of Brown Sugar University. And that power couple might make you want to pucker up. Before you do, hit your lips with our Ultra Smooth Lip Crème.
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To fi nish off your BSU gear, pair your tee with our Vegan Leather Backpack and Brown Sugar University Baseball Cap. With a sleek design for the backpack and modern look of the cap, your “BSU look” is complete – but the vibes aren’t just yet! Jot down all your thoughts in our Brown Sugar University Leather Bound Notebook. Whether you’re writing down daily reminders or to-do lists, this compact notebook is perfect for carrying anywhere. If you’re a woman in charge, stay that way with the “I’ve Got the Power” Portable Charger. Now while you’re on the go, you’ll never have to worry about your phone or devices keeping up with you. School is in session, and when you’re a Brown Sugar University babe, it’s all about setting up a good vibe. With this latest Brown Sugar Box, now you can!
OCTOBER 2019 We Promise You: 5-6 Items at an $85 value
This month’s value:
$120
SATIN-LINED BROWN SUGAR UNIVERSITY BASEBALL CAP [One of Three Colors] (Retail Value $20) This satin-lined baseball cap will make even bad hair days look good! Caps are the perfect accessory. You might be having a lazy hair day or looking to complete an outfit with a simple, stylish touch. No matter what, these Brown Sugar University caps in olive, navy, or maroon are perfect for the fall season and beyond.
VEGAN LEATHER BACKPACK [One of Three Colors] (Retail Value $32) It’s all about style! Ditch your handbags for these metallic backpacks. While they’re small and compact, they’re perfect for storing all your favorite items whether it be a brand-new notebook, charger, or your favorite lip crème. Material: Vegan Leather
A DIFFERENT WORLD CAST T-SHIRT (Retail Value $28) We’re loving the crew! Dwayne, Whitley, Ron, Freddie, and Kim had us all wanting to relive the golden years and now you can. Pay homage to our favorite college crew, and while they went to Hillman – they ain’t got nothing on our Brown Sugar University babes.
“I’VE GOT THE POWER” PORTABLE CHARGER [One of Two Colors] (Retail Value $12) If you’re a woman in charge, make sure you never lose it by carrying this portable charger! With the statement “I’ve Got the Power,” let everyone know who the H(BSB)IC is! Available in silver or rose gold.
BROWN SUGAR UNIVERSITY LEATHER BOUND NOTEBOOK [One of Three Colors] (Retail Value $20) If you have the musings of a magical black girl, you need to get your thoughts out – and now you can! Want to take notes? Check. Need to write a to-do list? Check. Looking to journal? Check! Our Brown Sugar University notebook is all you need to say what’s on your mind.
IZZY & LIV ULTRA SMOOTH LIP CRÈME (Retail Value $8) Pucker up! Whether you’re in the mood for “Honey Crush” or a “Coconut Kiss,” our lip crème is just what you need to keep your lips soft and smooth. Made from beeswax, not only does it help with dry, chapped lips, but the ingredients can also help prevent cold sores!
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5 Must Watch Movies on the
Black College Experience by Alexandria Daniels Historically Black Colleges and Universities are important to the Black American experience. Back when black students were not allowed to attend colleges with white students, black colleges were made to deliver education that blacks rightfully deserved. HBCUs not only continue to be an integral part of American education for black students who want to continue learning about their culture and shape their identity, they also have fascinating aspects that make them stand out from white colleges such as step dance rituals and all black fraternities and sororities. These and other unique trademarks have made their way on to the big screen, showing audiences the nuances and complexities of HBCU life. Here are 5 films on the black college experience that you need to see:
The Great Debaters (2007) Starring and directed by Denzel Washington, The Great Debaters is based on the true story of the Wiley College debate team led by Melvin B. Tolson (played by Washington). Set during the ‘30s Jim Crow era, Tolson is determined to have his all black debate team be just as equally qualified as their white counterparts.
Stomp The Yard (2007) Get into the world of steppin’ by watching Stomp The Yard. Columbus Short stars as DJ Williams who joins his HBCU’s fraternity in which he and his members compete against another Frat in step competitions. The film is fun to watch as it pays tribute to a dance ritual that has HBCU roots.
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Drumline (2002) Check out Nick Cannon and his highly energetic performance as Devon Miles in Drumline. Miles attends Atlanta A&T University and joins this HBCU’s competitive band. It’s a great comedy with stellar performances especially from the marching band that will blow your mind!
Higher Learning (1995) This 90s film, directed by the late great John Singleton, tells the story of three black students attending an HBCU. It’s a thought provoking movie that deals with topics such as racism, segregation, and sexual assault. It’s a well-rounded, nuanced film that shows just how complex life on a college campus, even a HBCU, can possibly be.
School Daze (1988) Spike Lee’s 80s musical comedy tells a story that’s loosely based on the director’s black college experience. Starring Larry Fishbourne and Giancarlo Esposito, Lee’s film shows Greek life members going toe to toe with the regular students at Mission College. Not only does it have memorable songs, the film depicts real issues that affect the black community like colorism and hair texture.
These films touch on various parts of the black college experience that inform, inspire, and entertain black audiences. They show how HBCUs are an important facet of American society that should be valued and protected. Hopefully you love these movies just as much as we do!
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4 Reasons Why
“Dear White People” and “Grown-ish” are Today’s “A Different World” by Saeeda Ruffin
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conic, revolutionary, and the “straight up” of the black college experience, “A Different World” was truly a game-changer for network television. When it came on the scene, young black people had never seen anything so real and relevant to them. They could see their contemporaries pursuing higher education in an embracing, nurturing, and eclectic environment. It wasn’t just a show featuring basement parties and jocks. These characters on “A Different World” seemed relatable and reminiscent of someone that we all know. They made us want to be better and they encouraged us to reach and achieve. We will forever be grateful for having that show in our lives. FYI: Whitley, DeWayne, Freddie, JaLeesa, Denise, wherever you’re at, we miss y’all! Fortunately, the creative minds that lead and advocate for progress for African-Americans in the entertainment industry have brought us two more shows that we NEED…”Dear White People” and “Grown-ish.” These shows are cemented in the black community. If we are getting real with it, they are today’s “A Different World”, and here’s why:
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Both Shows Call Out Race Appropriating Unapologetically No, we are not apologizing for folks hijacking our culture. These shows are willing to snatch it back, just like “A Different World” did in its day. While the young black people on these shows have friends from different cultures and races, they don’t front like they don’t notice when people have crossed the line. The debate about what is
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and what isn’t appropriating can get a little sticky. We appreciate how these shows have worked to help people understand race appropriating for a number of perspectives. That’s good stuff for everybody!
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They Feature Black People Across The Spectrum Among the characters that “A Different World” brought us were the rich, bougie Whitley, the biracial flowerchild Freddie, and the “round the way girl” Lena James. Yes, they all went to the same school and yes, they all were able to prosper even though their backgrounds and journeys were different. That is the black experience. “Grown-ish” and “Dear White People” have done the same thing. These shows give us a bit of pride because, regardless of where you are on the life spectrum, rich, poor, athletic, smart, there are characters that give a voice to your experience.
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These Shows Take Leveling Up To New Heights People often think that the only thing that students have to deal with in college are books, the opposite sex, and parties. Uh, that’s a bit too basic. That’s not real life and that also doesn’t give credit to what it takes to overcome and succeed. Just like the characters of “A Different World”, Zoe of “Grownish” is getting her share of bumps and bruises. She has learned that the journey to success may not be a straight line because real life does not work like that!
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These Shows Prove That Black Love and Black Affluence Exists Everybody ain’t gonna be just a “baby daddy” or “baby momma.” True
black love can happen, and when it does, it is a beautiful thing. The media likes to show young black people in the most negative light possible. They make the world think that black people can only progress within their own communities by catering to people’s vices or by supporting the negativity. By these shows featuring black characters who are hardworking, willing to sacrifice for themselves and others, and uniting for the greater cause of pushing their race forward, they get to see more than just “back alley” living. Unapologetically educating the masses...that’s what “A Different World” did, and that’s what “Grownish” and “Dear White People” are doing also. Shows like this are hallmarks of entertainment for black people, and we must support them because they are more valuable than many of us even realize.
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by Saeeda Ruffin
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hen you think of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, there are some things that probably pop into your mind. Black intellectuals making their mark on the world, step shows and fantabulous marching bands are likely what you think of first. Just pondering it probably made you think of those uber talented drum majors that set things off at every game and major event. YES! We love them. But, in all honesty, that’s kind of a limited view of our dear beloved HBCUs. HBCUs are all of that and so much more. We would like to share with you a few interesting pieces of information to help you get better acquainted with our beloved HBCUs. There are so many falsehoods about HBCUs out there. We are going to debunk those ugly myths. We are also going to give you a few more reasons to rejoice in their successes. So, let us help you to get your knowledge up on these impactful institutions. Here are 4 things you didn’t know about HBCUs:
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They All Have To Be Accredited
HBCUs have to be accredited by the same bodies of higher education as the other predominantly white colleges and universities. That’s why a degree from an HBCU should hold the same
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prestige and honor as one from any other accredited school. Black people aren’t getting off easy by going to these institutions. The education at an HBCU brings all of the same rigors as would be expected anywhere else. If they lose their accreditation, they are forced to close. So, please, y’all...don’t let people down them because of ignorance.
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Science, Engineering, Technology, and Math Are Hallmarks of HBCUs
Contrary to popular belief, HBCUs are hubs for some of the greatest AfricanAmerican minds who are at the top in STEM. Over half of the nation’s AfricanAmerican females who have earned doctorates in the sciences have been graduates of Spelman College and Bennett College. Over 45% of African-American health professionals have been educated at an HBCU. Most HBCUs were actually founded with the purpose of educated black people so that they could enter and excel in the STEM fields. Now you know why many have the “A&M” which stands for Agricultural and Mechanical or the “A&T” which stands for Agricultural and Technical in their names. Our forefathers and queens of education knew what they were doing from jump. Thank You, Ancestors.
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There Are More HBCUs Than Most People Realize
We all know that HBCUs started out with just a handful of courageous and industrious African-American intellectuals who were willing to sacrifice everything for the betterment of all black people. Those phenomenal trailblazers did all of that for us! Even though we know that the odds were totally stacked against them, some still don’t realize how much their vision has grown and how it has come to fruition for generations of African Americans. Because of the work of those educational visionaries, there are over 100 HBCUs in the United States. This includes both private and public colleges and universities, as well as medical schools.
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Some Say That We Don’t Need HBCUs Anymore
When they say that HBCUs are no longer necessary, they lie. In fact, HBCUs are as necessary today as in times past. African-Americans may have more “options” when it comes to education, but, for some, it’s not about options. It’s about history. It’s about learning and understanding their own culture. It’s about wanting to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest African-Americans to have ever walked the Earth. These future leaders want to be able to pursue their education without dealing with racism, hatred, and the need to constantly prove that they “belong.” Ain’t nobody got time for the foolishness!
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Without Going Back to School by Saeeda Ruffin
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ne of the most awesome gifts that life gives us is an abundance of opportunities to better ourselves. We all know that we should welcome and embrace every chance to learn. With all of that, when we talk about learning people automatically jump to the assumption that learning can only be done in a classroom with heavy textbooks and a whiteboard full of notes. Nope...that’s totally not true. Learning can happen anywhere! There are so many fantastic ways to further educate yourself and not one of them forces you to go back to school. Whether you are considering changing your occupation, looking to gain greater insight into a skill or role, or just want to be on your A-game when your next job opportunity comes along, preparing yourself will be essential. The best way to do that is to get your mind around what you need to learn and explore the options to get that knowledge. It’s not a time to be intimidated. This is actually a time to be inspired and enthusiastic about the possibilities. Girl, you gon’ learn today...and you’re going to grow and blossom from it! Take a moment to focus on you and your future. Now, jump in to get yourself where you feel that you need to be. Challenge yourself to explore these 5 ways to educate yourself without going back to school:
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YouTube-iversity
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You Don’t Know, You Better Ask Somebody
YouTube has become the world’s biggest learning platform. With millions of videos on every subject, any novice can get lots of instructions and really get skilled through watching these videos. The main thing that you need to remember when selecting the videos for the skills that you want to learn about is to seek credibility. Many professionals, not just folks with a video camera and time on their hands, have posted videos that can help you understand concepts and possibly even changes within your field that you need for staying abreast. Get on there and soak up all the information that you can!
Believe it or not, people are generally willing to share their skills and experience. Reach out to professionals in the field that you want to pursue or that have the skills that you need to learn. Ask them if they would be willing to help you learn or if they could give you tips. They may even be willing to mentor you through the learning process.
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Get On The Googleverse
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Workshops Can Really Work
Yes, honey, the information is out there...right on Google.com. One of the great things about using Google to gain access to information is that you will be presented with a myriad of sources. The most challenging part of using this platform is to find the right “keywords” for your search. That might take a little time. But, eventually, you will get it together and before you know it, you will get “educated.”
Your local library, some retail stores, or even professional networks, such as the Chamber of Commerce, will likely offer tons of workshops. Many will be focused on specific skills and they will be led by knowledgeable professionals. One of the best things about these workshops is that they are usually free or extremely cheap! So, you get the best of both worlds with this one. Plus, you may be able to get more personalized attention or a chance to speak with the presenter beyond the workshop.
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Become An Apprentice
When people think of being an apprentice, they usually think of someone being exceptionally young or right out of college. Well, there are apprenticeship programs that are for anybody who wants to learn a new skill or are transitioning into a different field. Most professional organizations will have websites that outline the path to certain careers within their field. Reach out to those organizations and find out about the apprenticeship programs that they offer. You may be pleasantly surprised at how receptive they are to and excited about people wanting to explore their industry.
Sis, now is the time to do for you! Embrace the challenge, get enthusiastic about the future, and put educating yourself at the forefront of your plans. What better way to be the change that you want for tomorrow’s world than to get in there and be in a position to make it happen. A better you is a better us. Iron sharpens iron and when our sisters grow, our community benefits astronomically!
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beauties Izzy & Liv customers truly are THE BEST! We LOVE seeing your social media posts sharing your boxes each month. Here are a few highlights from last month.
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OCTOBER 2019
Congratulations to last month’s WINNER! PAULINE SAUNDERS was randomly selected from everyone who shared their August box on social media to WIN her next box FREE. Thank you to everyone who shared! We appreciate you! Don’t forget to share this month’s box using the hashtags #brownsugarbox #izzyandliv for your chance to win next month’s giveaway. BONUS: Join our Facebook Group: The Brown Sugar Lounge, for a SECOND CHANCE to win a free box.
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BROWN SUGAR UNIVERSITY by Alexandria Daniels Historically Black Colleges and Universities, or HBCUs, have their own brand of a unique college experience for black people that most other colleges can’t give them. Aside from learning black history, you are able to experience a further understanding and appreciating of black culture. Best of all, joining black sororities and fraternities are a staple that has become a huge facet of the HBCU experience. To celebrate the black college experience, here is our Brown Sugar University playlist. It’s mixed with actual HBCU homecoming and strolling songs that are iconic in most Black Greek Life circles, as well as some of our 90s and current hot tracks that represent Izzy & Liv’s Brown Sugar crew so you can stroll or step with your girls. Happy listening!
Around The Way Girl by LL Cool J Free Your Mind by En Vogue Formation by Beyoncé Lose My Breath by Destiny’s Child Before I Let Go by Maze and Frankie Beverly Got To Be Real by Cheryl Lynn Poison by Bell Biv DeVoe This Is How We Do It by Montell Jordan Atomic Dog by George Clinton I’m Every Woman by Whitney Houston What About Your Friends by TLC No Letting Go by Wayne Wonder OMG (feat. Will.I.Am) by Usher Don’t Stop The Music by Rihanna Just Fine by Mary J.Blige Rhythm Nation by Janet Jackson Just Kickin It by Xscape Doo Wop (That Thing) by Lauryn Hill No Diggity by Blackstreet
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OCTOBER 2019
Frequently asked questions
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Can I change my size preference for future boxes? Yes, you can do so inside your Brown Sugar Box account on izzyandliv.com, or you can email us at support@izzyandliv.com to update your preferences for you.
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When will I be billed for next month’s box? You will be rebilled on the 1st of the month for the next box. So you will be billed for the October box on the 1st of October; for the November box on the 1st of October and so on... You will not be billed for the next box until after the box from the current month has been shipped/ delivered.
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What is your cancellation policy? Your subscription can be cancelled at any time in your Brown Sugar Box Account Settings at izzyandliv.com. If you’ve already been billed for the next box (1st of the month), your cancellation will take affect the next billing cycle. To cancel your subscription, login to your account and click on the Subscription tab, then click “edit” next to your subscription. You can also email us to request that we cancel for you.
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Can I exchange or return items in my box? We cannot accept returns at this time for Brown Sugar Box items, but we welcome your feedback to improve. Email us at support@ izzyandliv.com to share your thoughts. We value your feedback and our mission is to make every Brown Sugar Box more than worth your while! Your feedback will help us to make sure we make this box amazing and valuable as it can be. As far as the item(s), you can always gift them to a friend, coworker, or family member- these items make GREAT gifts! Can I skip a month without cancelling? Yes, you can skip a future month delivery and not be billed for it, without having to cancel your entire subscription. Once logged into your Brown Sugar Box account at izzyandliv. com, you will need to open the “Delivery Schedule” tab. There you will see all upcoming deliveries for your subscription. To skip a delivery you just need to click “Skip” to the right of each relevant delivery. This will only skip that one delivery. To skip multiple deliveries you will need to click “Skip” next to each relevant one. Alternatively, you can email to have us skip deliveries for you.
How can I share photos or unboxing videos with you? Yes! We live for customer feedback & reviews! Just post your pics or video on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube etc. and hashtag #brownsugarbox, #izzyandliv and @izzyandliv. You can also leave a photo review on the Brown Sugar Subscription page! If you make a blog post email us with the link. If your social media is private we will not be able to see your post, so feel free to email us to let us know where to check it out!
Something went wrong with my order/ delivery what should I do? Should you have an issue with your box items (damage, received wrong size, etc) you must notify us at support@izzyandliv. com, with photo(s), within 7 days of receipt of your package. After 7 days, we will not be able to process requests related to this month’s box. If your box was returned due to consumer error, please reach out to customer service for reshipment at an additional cost.
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I have feedback or questions, who do I contact? We can be reached at support@izzyandliv.com
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You should be there… Members Only Lounge www.facebook.com/groups/izzyandliv