The Olive Branch - Issue #02 - Spring 2019

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OLIVEBRANCH THE OFFICE OF STUDENT LIFE & DEVELOPMENT

SPRING 2019 | ISSUE 02

#ILMW2K19 How Morgan World ended the semester with a bang!

SPRING COMMENCEMENT More than 700 bachelor’s candidates and 228 master’s and doctoral candidates!

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OLIVE BRANCH

the olive branch spring 2019 issue 02 Cover Image Ahmaad Bastien | @1ahmaad_ Editorial Natasha Lewis-Williams Editor Contributors Kayla N. Lawrence Courtney Souvenir Jr. Johnathan Williams Stephen Thompson Jr. Danny T. Molock Jr.

Connect With Us Visit www.morgan.edu/studentlife or contact studentlife@morgan.edu instagram @msuosl_IG Twitter @msuosl Phone: 443-885-3470 & ext 3471

POWERED BY THE MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY OFFICE OF STUDENT LIFE & DEVELOPMENT

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OLIVE BRANCH

CONTENTS 11

I LOVE MORGAN WEEK

THE OFFICE OF STUDENT LIFE & DEVELOPMENT

03 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

05 WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT MONTH

07 MISTER & MISS MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY PAGEANT

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EXCLUSIVE!

I LOVE MORGAN WEEK 2019

17 BEYOND THE BRICKS

24 2019 SPRING COMMENCEMENT

06 WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT MONTH

19 SOCIAL CONNECTION

27 2019 SPRING COMMENCEMENT

EDITOR'S NOTE

The Spring of 2019 was very robust and full of innovative experiences for our students. The Office of Student Life & Development kicked off our Beyond the Bricks program where students had the opportunity to leave campus and enjoy activities through different trips. Some of the students who participated in this program had the chance to experience their first baseball game or was able to interact with students they have never met before.

For me, this was transformative programming because you learn more about yourself and your peers when you are in a new environment.

Also, as the weather changes, the mood around campus brightens. The Spring 2019 edition of the Olive Branch will show the amazing experiences of the students that impacted the campus life experience for all students. Not only was I pleased with the level of creativity that the students exhibited this semester, I am excited that OSLD is able to be a vessel for students to grow and have new and exciting experiences. We hope you enjoy Volume 2 and look out for the special Volume 2.5 for the summer 2019 highlights.

In Morgan Spirit,

Natasha Lewis-Williams

Natasha Lewis Williams Coordinator of Student Life & Development

WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT MONTH As the nation celebrates Women's History Month, The Office of Student Life & Developments has utilized the month of March to empower women on and beyond the campus of Morgan State University.

as an interactive vision board party where each workshop will serve as a something on the attendees vision board.

When these women leave, they should walk out with information, tangible techniques and confidence to face the world," says Lewis-Williams.

Covering topics such as finances, entrepreneurship, networking and self care, over 130 women ages 18 and up gathered to empower one another. After a full day of workshops, the conference ended with a complimentary spa activation for all

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EMPOWERMENT DAY AN

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The Office of Student Life & Development kicked off Women's Empowerment Month with its second annual Women's Empowerment Day. Women of all ages took over the University Student Center as they gained tools and inspiration to build and execute their visions.

Curated by the Coordinator of Student Life & Development, Natasha Lewis-Williams, the 2019 Women's Empowerment Day was packed with workshop sessions that catered to the needs and wants of those in attendance. "The theme (The Ultimate Vision Experience) is setup

attendees to enjoy.

BEHIND THE GLAM A look inside of the production of the 2019 Mister & Miss Morgan State University Pageant.

Coordinated by the OSLD Mister & Miss Pageant System.

Photo Cred: @cjnycvisuals

LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION!!

On Tuesday, April 2, 2019 the OSLD Mister & Miss Pageant System facilitated the 2019 Mister & Miss Morgan State University Pageant. Five contestants showcased their poise, intellect, and talent all in hopes of being one step closer to the title of Mister & Miss Morgan State University. Behind the glam, is a team of dedicated staff that not only produces the pageant, but ensures that each contestant is properly equipped to leave it all on the stage.

Under the direction of Danny Molock, Assistant Coordinator of the Office of Student Life and Development, the 2019 pageant team was comprised of Morgan State University Staff who each have experience in pageant performance and production.

The team included Clint Bordley (Male Contestants Talent), Terrance Brown (Male Contestants Introductions), Taya Gaskins-Scott (Female Contestants - Ease of Manner) and Kayla Lawrence (Female Contestants - Speeches). After a week of intense practice, the Hollywood Glam themed production was a show the judges and student body would never forget. In addition to contestant performances, there were also tributes to black Hollywood staples such as Aretha Franklin. Dreamgirls and The Color Purple.

Monley Julien accumulated the most pageant points for the Mister Morgan State University category, while Erica Knox took home the win for the Miss Morgan State University category.

THE NEW CREATIVE WAVE DUBBEMPIRE ACADEMY BRINGING DIGITAL PRODUCTION TO THE FOREFRONT

Photos by DUBBEMPIRE ACADEMY

The Spring Semester brought on a host of new experiences, including DuBBEmpire Academy.

Powered by in-house videographer, Johnathan Williams, DuBBEmpire Academy provided Morgan State University students to immerse themselves into the world content capturing. With the vision of providing students with an opportunity to build their portfolios, DuBBEmpire Academy not only published highlights of on-campus events powered by The Office of Student Life & Devlopment, but also produced its own events that celebrated the creativity and talents of Morgan students.

C.I.O MEMBERSHIP INTAKE

10 ORGANIZATIONS WELCOME THEIR SPRING 2019 INITIATES

The Council of Independent Organizations is the umbrella organization over special interest fraternities and sororities as well as social fellowships.

The Council of Independent Organizations (CIO) – MSU Section originally the “Committee on Independent Organizations was formed at (then) Morgan College during the second semester of the 1964 academic school year. Representatives of the active member organizations, along with the honor societies and departmental clubs were formed that since there was no governing body for these organizations. Today, the CIO serves as the governing body of Morgan State University fraternities, sororities, social fellowships, and organizations unaffiliated with the National PanHellenic Council (NPHC).

The Spring 2019 Membership Intake Class welcomed 30 new members to the CIO family!

"Morgan State University's Campus Activities Board will forever have my support! I know how hard they work."

KENOLD E. PIERRE, SGA PRESIDENT 18-19

CAMPUS ACTIVITIES BOARD & THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

BACK TO SCHOOL WEEK Kicking off the semester the right way !

January 22 - January 26

The Campus Activities Board welcomed students back like they never left with their Spring Back to School Week. The week encompassed six unique events packed with enough fun to wash away the stress of the semester.Â

Photo Cred: @cjnycvisuals

I LOVE MORGAN WEEK 2019 |morgan world

Every year students look forward to the biggest week of the Spring semester, I Love Morgan Week. Celebrating love for Morgan, unity and the end of the school year, this year's I Love Morgan Week was nothing short of amazing.

"The rain couldn't put an end to I Love Morgan Day! Students took over the entire University Student Center."

THE STAYING POWER OF MORGAN WORLD Morgan State University's Campus Activities Board brought the Grammy nominated album,"Astroworld," to life (in true Morgan fashion of course). Kicking off on April 22, 2019, the carnival themed affair packed the entire week with exciting activities for students to enjoy. Included in the week of events were the Silent Disco Party, Your Choice Game Show and the I Love Morgan Week Concert. Meg Thee Stallion, Kash Doll and Lil Durk brought forth another sold out show.

The highlight of the week however, was undeniably the Night Carnival. Though it rained outside, the celebration continued with a University Student Center takeover.

An overflow of students enjoyed carnival games, food and a surprise bull riding activation.Â

Photo Cred: @cjnycvisuals

Miss Morgan BRITTANY B. DORSEY It is safe to say that the "Timeless Dynasty," have left their mark on the campus of Morgan State University and the nation at large. Miss Morgan State University 18-19, Brittany Dorsey ended her reign with a bang.

Not only placing as one of EBONY Magazine's Top 10 Campus Queen's, but also receiving a profile feature in the September 2019 issue of the publication (be on the look out.) When she wasn't representing our university on a national scale, she was serving our campus and it's surrounding community.

During the Spring semester, Dorsey produced the Fourth Annual Morgan Girls Rock conference and went on her D.N.A Tour, where she visited middle schools across the city of Baltimore to plant the seed of purpose in the minds of the youth.

Mister Morgan TYRELL CAINE Mister Morgan State University 18-19, Tyrell Caine complimented the successes of his queen with his own initiatives. In February, he represented the university in the Mr. HBCU Pageant. Travelling to Missouri, Caine delivered a phenomenal message charging young men to own their truths and share their stories because that is the true definition of "living your best life."

In addition to the pageant, Caine committed his Spring semester to service and representation. Not only launching his "Letter to a Young Cub," initiative, but also making various appearances across campus and in the community to uplift and inspire individuals of all ages.

BEYOND THE BRICKS While staying on campus is fun, there is nothing like indulging in the experiences outside of the campus. This Spring semester, the Office of Student Life and Development introduced its "Beyond the Bricks," series.

Understanding that college finances are not exponential, the Beyond the Bricks excursions provide students with an opportunity to enjoy experiences "beyond" the walls of our campus at no cost to them. Beyond the Bricks kicked off with three trips throughout the course of the semester. They include: Flight Night (Sky Zone Trip), Bowling Night (AMF Towson) and Game Time (Baltimore Orioles Game). Over 150 students were able to enjoy a night of fun with their friends, while also connecting with students they did not know. If you missed Beyond the Bricks this semester, don't worry because we will be back with more off campus fun in Fall 2019!

Baltimore Orioles Game Escursion

INAUGURATION

I Love Morgan Day ended with the welcoming of the New Era Administration.

Keyon Grayson and Brandon Holmes were officially inaugurated as the 2019-2020 SGA President and Vice President. While Monley Julien and Erica Knox were sworn in as the 2019-2020 Mister and Miss Morgan State University.

SOCIAL connection

As digital communication continues to evolve, social interaction becomes more imperative when sharing information. The Office of Student Life & Development is ensuring its evolution with society through social engagement.

This semester we utilized the power of social media to not only promote our initiatives, but also to celebrate unsung heroes, empower communities and join in on conversations of awareness and insight on social causes. Be on the lookout as we redefine what higher education looks like in the digital realm.

Top Photo: Women's Empowerment Spotlight Promotion Middle Photo: Grownish: Squad Goals Promotion Bottom Photo: Denim Day Campaign

STAYING CONNECTED

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY VIDEO SHOOT

BEHIND THE SCENES The Morgan Woman is far from one dimensional. She's an athlete, scholar, student leader, activist, longboarder and so much more! With the growth of the digital age, the Office of Student Life & Development decided to celebrate the many facets of Morgan women through the recreation of Drake's "Nice For What," video. Directed by Kayla Lawrence and produced by Johnathan Williams, the video encompassed a host of Morgan students and alumnae in their element.

Showcasing the beauty, strength and tenacity that is the Morgan Woman.

BEFORE I LET GO CHALLENGE When Beyonce launches a social challenge, it is only right that the best of the best showcase their talent. We couldn’t end the academic year without showing Queen Bey how Maryland’s LARGEST HBCU took on her viral #BeforeILetGoChallenge.

The Office of Student Life & Development partnered with the Morgan State University Band and the Office of Residence Life & Housing to put our own spin on the challenge.

Produced by Johnathan Williams, student organizations, dance teams and the Morgan State University Band showcased the aura of the TRUE orange & blue with the choreographed Morgan shuffle (created by Clint Bordley, Danny Molock and Vincent Onogobo) and the Baltimore two-step Beyonce even featured the video on her Instagram stories.

SPRING 2019 STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION EVENTS

FRESHMAN WEEK Freshman Week kicks off the class week takeovers leading up to ILMW. Coordinated by the SGA freshman class, this year's Freshman Week encompassed a series of fun events for students to unwind and fellowship with their classmates. The week included Mini Golf, Trap & Paint and a cookout.

SOPHOMORE WEEK Sophomore Week 2019 had various activities for every interest. Tapping into the creative side of the sophomore class, the Thrive Administration filled the week with a tie-dye party and battle of the aux cord competition. What set the sophomore class apart was their end of the week gala.

JUNIOR WEEK Junior year can be a bit stressful, however the junior class ensured that their colleagues handled business and let loose with the 2019 Junior Week. With senior year approaching, the 2020 Administration provided their class with a free resume building workshop and professional headshot opportunity. With a healthy mix of fun and service, the week ended with a throwback cookout and campus clean-up.

SENIOR WEEK The Class of 2019 showed up and showed out for Senior Week. Their "Finishline" theme encompassed events that commemorated their final moments as students of Morgan State University. The week included a cookout, game night and the commemorative Reverse Promethean Walk.

STARS UNDER THE STARS THE 2019 STUDENT ORGANIZATION AWARD CEREMONY On May 1, 2019, the Office of Student Life & Development honored student leaders, student organizations, advisors and partners that have impacted the campus community throughout the 2019-2020 academic school year.

The celebratory night highlighted the great work of Morgan State University's amazing student leadership and student organizations! The Office of Student Life & Development distributed over 15 awards, including Advisor of the Year, Academic Trailblazer Award and Organization of the Year.

Student Organization of the Year

NCNW

With a total of 12 nominees, the National Council of Negro Women MSU Section took home the largest award of the night, Student Organization of the Year. [Insert reason why they won here].

2019 Spring Commencement Ceremony On May 18, more than 700 bachelor’s candidates and 228 master’s and doctoral candidates received their degrees at Morgan State University’s 143rd Spring Commencement Exercises. U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings, a member of Morgan’s Board of Regents, was the commencement speaker for the Undergraduate Ceremony held in Hughes Memorial Stadium.

Student leader's adorned their regalia with honors cords, customized graduation cap designs and paraphernalia representing their many affiliate organizations.It is always amazing to witness students achieve this accomplishment. Congratulations to the graduating Class of 2019!

"You, each and every one of you, are better and more valuable to our country because of the obstacles that you have faced and overcome."

CONGRESSMAN ELIJAH CUMMINGS