Welcome class of 2018 Vol. 62, I ssue 1Page 2
Freshman survival Page 6
Spartans Football Preview VMAs VMA Expectations expectations | Page 8 Page 4
Vol. 63, Issue 1
08.28.15
President Moore addresses probation, low enrollment and forging ahead by Danielle Kirsh
As enrollment declines at Norfolk State University during its probation, some students worry about the status of the university, but not Interim President and CEO Eddie N. Moore, Jr. Norfolk State is “totally caught up” on issues that led to its probation, Moore told the Spartan Echo in an exclusive interview on May 1. Moore said he is “completely confident” that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) will remove the probation when they revisit Norfolk State in December. From the SACSCOC point of view, “we fell behind,” said Moore. Regardless of the probationary status, Moore says the university is in compliance with every Virginia state rule and regulation that they are required to uphold.
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NSU mourns the passing of student by Richelle Hammiel
The full length interview with President Moore can be viewed online at SpartanEcho.org or on the Spartan Echo’s YouTube channel. Photo by Tykhari Coles
“(Prospective students) should not be concerned about the probationary status,” said Moore. Even if the university remained on probation and didn’t fix the violations outlined by SACSCOC, students who earned their degree at NSU would not have to
worry because their degree is still valid. Once the SACSCOC visit is completed in December, the results will be released to the public. This means the university will learn the results at the same time as everyone else. Even though Moore
says the university is on track with having the probation removed, enrollment continues to drop. And a drop in enrollment means budget cuts across the board. Continued on page 3
Most summers are supposed to be filled with the thrills summer fun or either the stress of summer jobs. However, this summer brought upon us a tragic event that is left in the minds of our students as well as families and friends. On June 25, we lost one of our fellow Spartans, Calnesha Brown, due to a tragic car accident that took place in her hometown of Suffolk, Virginia. Brown was a sophomore and a business/ entrepreneurship major. Gone too soon at the early age of 19, Brown left many people behind who were devastated by the news of her passing. Showing just how much their dear friend’s life meant to them, a Continued on page 2
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
spartan news
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Spartan Reflections Yearbook returns by Richelle Hammiel
Norfolk State University mourns the loss of their fellow Spartan, Calnesha Brown, who passed away this past July in an automobile accident. Photo by Storm Calder Continued from front page
few friends, also from her hometown and from NSU, willingly shared their condolences. “Nesh was always in good spirits! Ready to crack a joke and didn’t care if you cracked one back…she reminded me of myself with the type of energy and vibe she had…always happy and believed in herself and what she wanted to do! Had an amazing future ahead of her! Ima miss baby girl,” Devin Taylor, Junior and health fitness major, said. “A Spartan truly gone too soon. We appreciated all that you’ve done. A friend, mentor, volunteer, and sister, you will truly be missed,” Chante’ Anders, Junior and psychology major, said.
Though Brown was put to rest by her family and friends on July 2, NSU held its own memorial service a few weeks later for those who may have been unable to attend her funeral. There should always be unity among the students, especially for unfortunate event. Instead of continuing to mourn, everyone should stand side by side to remember the good that Brown brought to campus and to many lives. Volunteering on campus was just one honorable deed that Brown was widely known for. That being said, many can view what she did and appreciate the time and effort she contributed to serve a better cause.
A major part of the college experience is meeting new people and making new memories that will live with you forever. Not that those memories will ever be forgotten, but why not place them in the palm of your hands or on your computer screen so they can physically last forever? Student Activities has made all of this possible by continuing on with the publication of the Spartan Reflections Yearbook, which dates back from 2006 to the present. It’s then up to the students to put their creative minds and skills together to make the yearbook run smoothly. When looking for specifics as to what the students can expect to see in this year’s yearbook, advisor of the Spartan Reflections Yearbook Zia Felder provided some insight. “[There will be] highlights of student leaders, major events and candid photos of students on campus. There will be comprehensive detailing from the students’ perspective,” Felder said. Some of those major
events range from homecoming activities to the Mr. & Mrs. NSU Pageant. The organizations, clubs, and teams on campus have also played significant roles in shaping the yearbook as they ultimately bring the campus to life. Not only does the Spartan Reflections Yearbook need people to star in the yearbook, but also new people to help run it. As of summer 2015, Felder, began accepting applications for new staff members. The deadline to apply was officially August 1st, but luckily, this was a rolling deadline which means it is never too late to apply. Mass communications, journalism and fine ars majors are preferred, but any other students willing to be trained are also welcome. A minimum 2.5 GPA is a major requirement as well as other skills outlined by Felder. “Our staff would ideally be students trained in Graphic Design, Writing and Journalism to include the Adobe Creative Suite, Photography, Copy Editing and Writing,” Felder
said. Student Activities is considering the possibility of paid positions toward tuition, but this is not yet guaranteed. However, this is still an opportunity to build up some experience. With the help of the staff, the next yearbook is expected to be published and ready to go around the month of October. There is no charge for students, which is even more of a reason to support. Unlike the typical paperback yearbook, the Spartan Reflections Yearbook has expanded beyond print editions and is now online and can be viewed electronically on the NSU website. On the other hand print copies are available if preferred. “They can be mailed to graduates of that year and other students can get them from the office as requested,” Felder said. 2015-2016 will bring new memories for our school that everyone can cherish before and after graduation that can all be captured and viewed in the Spartan Reflections Yearbook.
It’s not too late to get involved with the Spartan Echo! If you enjoy writing, graphic design or photography, it’s not too late to get involved with the Spartan Echo.
The Spartan Echo welcomes any and all majors to join us. Previous journalism experience is not a requirement.
Our meetings are held every Tuesday and Thursday in the Student Center, room 344 at 12:30p.m.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
08.28.15
spartan news NSU welcomes the class of 2018 by Richelle Hammiel
As our students have arrived on campus and have prepared for this new year, we’ve had the chance to embrace the class of 2018 and introduce them to what many consider a home away from home. It has always been a mission of NSU to prevent all feelings of uneasiness. Freshmen move-in a few days earlier than upperclassmen. This allows more time for making friends and for them to become more comfortable with their surroundings. President Eddie N. Moore Jr. was also a huge help as he sought to provide his positive words of wisdom in order to start the students off on the right path of success. “Welcome to the Spartan family! At Norfolk State University, you will
find that we promote a nurturing and safe learning environment and also have high academic expectations of you,” Moore said. The number one goal for those attending the university is that they get that degree. It is advised that all students sign up for a tutor at the Spartan Success Center to stay on track with classes and to find classmates who could become study partners. If there are misunderstandings in classes, speak with professors during their office hours. Studying may be a dreadful part of school, but it is an essential part of this learning process. The university has provided more comfortable studying spaces. There are labs on the first floor of dorms and study rooms in the li-
brary. “My advice to you as you continue your educational journey is to learn as much as you can and enjoy your experience at NSU. Participate in student clubs and activities, and establish a short term and long term goal. Share these goals with your family and friends--and set out to achieve them,” Moore said. President Moore welcomed all students to contact him or meet with him upon arriving on campus, whether they just want to get acquainted or have any questions about the campus. “... Stop by to chat whenever you see me in the student dining room. I look forward to seeing you around campus and always remember to Behold the Green and Gold!”
Freshmen in the S.P.A.R.C Summer Bridge program learns some useful advice about Norfolk State Univeristy classes, people, and activities before entering the school for fall 2015 semester. Photo by Storm Calder
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President Moore
continued from front page
Some of the cuts will be seen in academic areas, but Moore added that administrative and management positions will not be immune. He did say, however, that the areas of finance and policing or security will not be cut since they are areas of critical importance to the university.
“(Prospective students) should not be concerned about the probationary status.” - President Moore Students and faculty were consulted before the budget cuts were decided, Moore said. President Moore added that 7,000 students would be an ideal enrollment figure to work toward in order to maintain current programs and market position within Hampton Roads and the Commonwealth of Virginia. To reach these numbers, Moore said the university is “broadening our reach” by talking to faith leaders in the community to encourage students to visit and enroll in Norfolk State. “We would like to increase our mix of outof state students,” said Moore.
wwOut-of-state tuition is slightly higher than in-state tuition, so students paying out-of-state tuition rates would help with the university’s financial operations. In addition, plans for university improvement will continue and extend into the summer and throughout the fall semester as Norfolk State University brings the probation failures up to code and the university into a new era. The ongoing renovations of Brown Hall will continue through the summer as the university plans to have a fully completed building by 2017 and occupancy by spring 2018. In addition to completing the academic quad that comprises the student center, nursing building, library and Brown Hall, the university will also close a residence hall for the fall 2015 semester. One of the Babbette-Smith towers will undergo renovations in the fall since the drop in fall 2015 enrollment means fewer students will be living on campus. According to Moore, the university is also expanding their mission to give more focus on athletics since the athletic department doesn’t usually get the credit they deserve.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
spartan sports
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08.28.15
New coaching staff looks to turn around NSU football program in 2015 by Jason Gill With the 2015 season a little over a week away, most Spartan football fans are anxious to see if this year will be any different from the agonizing seasons they’ve witnessed recently. Over the past three seasons, the Spartans have failed to register more than four wins with their last winning season coming in 2011 when they won the MEAC. Last November, head coach Pete Adrian announced his retirement from the team after posting a 54-60 record over 10 seasons. Head coach Latrell Scott will now take over the responsibility of leading the NSU football program after coaching Virginia State University (VSU) for the past two seasons. Scott, who went 19-3 in his two seasons at VSU, will be tasked with transforming an offense that lacked the versatility and creativity necessary to keep up with a defense that finished last season ranked 2nd in the nation among football championship subdivision schools (FCS). Many NSU fans became increasingly frustrated with the redundancy of a Spartan offense that at times made fans feel as though they were watching a bad re-run of their favorite television sitcom. “We need to make sure we are putting the kids in the right situations,” said
Scott. “I think it is on us as a coaching staff to run things that will allow us to be successful. We want to improve in every area. Its tough to put your finger on just one thing.” A major issue that has plagued the program over the last few seasons was the inability to establish a starting quarterback. It seemed the Spartans finally found an answer in sophomore quarterback Terrance Ervin. Ervin, who started nine of the 12 games for NSU last season as a freshman, completed 102-of180 passes for 1,310 yards and eight passing touchdowns. He would have Norfolk State Football prepares for the upcoming season with intense workouts throughout the sumbeen the clear-cut choice mer. Photo by Storm Calder to start under center this named to the Preseason Marcell Coke, who led KEY NUMBERS season, but it was anAll-MEAC 1st team. The the team in tackles, senior nounced early in training Portsmouth native, who linebacker Deon King will camp that Ervin would 2: The Spartans were was named the team’s be looked upon to carry be leaving the team and ranked second in the nation Offensive MVP, led the an even bigger load. in total defense last season school for what the proSpartans with 48 catches King was second in among FCS schools. gram described as “perfor 664 yards and seven tackles and sacks for NSU sonal reasons.” last season. He has also touchdowns last season. 7: The Spartans are NSU now turns to junior “The chemistry be- been named to the Preseapicked to finish 7th in the transfer quarterback Greg tween Greg and all of the son All-MEAC 1st team MEAC this year. There are Hankerson as its starter. also seven Spartans named receivers has been good as well as the STATS FCS Hankerson, who came to preseason All-MEAC on and off the field, so it Defensive Player of the to NSU from Florida Atteams. NSU’s turnover marhelps translate that to the Year Watch List. lantic University, has imgin was -7 last season. They “I think I need to fill field,” said White. “I’m pressed with his ability to will need to shore up that just working on making that role now with him execute the new offense. part of the game if they explosive plays down the [Lynden Trail] gone,” said want to have their first win“It came as a surprise. I field after I catch the ball.” King. “I switched posining season in four years. didn’t know he was leavOn the defensive side tions this year from outing,” said Hankerson. “I of the ball, NSU hopes side to middle so just get11.7: The Spartans mancame here with the intento return to its dominant ting acclimated to middle aged to average just 11.7 tion of playing. I just have self but will depend on linebacker is the biggest points-per-game which to keep getting reps and ranked 9th out of 11 teams a different cast to do so. thing. I’m just working on looking over my playin the MEAC. They also regWith the departures of my reads.” book.” istered just 16 total touchThe Spartans open up linebackers Lynden Trail, Highlighting a talented downs which also ranked who was third on the team the season on Sept. 5 at receiving corps is senior in sacks and tackles and Rutgers University. Isaac White, who was
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
spartan sports
08.28.15
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2015 NSU FOOTBALL SCHEDULE RUTGERS
Sept. 5
OLD DOMINION
Sept. 12
@DAYTONA BEACH, F.L.
Sept. 19
@DURHAM, N.C.
HAMPTON
Sept. 26
HOMECOMING @NSU
HOWARD
Oct. 3
NC A&T
Oct. 10
MILITARY APPRECIATION/ SENIOR DAY @NSU
@PISCATAWAY, N.J. @NORFOLK, V.A.
MARSHALL
@HUNTINGTON, W.V. BATTLE OF THE BAY @NSU @WASHINGTON D.C.
EDUCATION APPRECIATION DAY @NSU
BETHUNE-COOKMAN
Oct. 24
N.CAROLINA CENTRAL Oct. 31 SAVANNAH STATE
Nov. 7
S.CAROLINA STATE
Nov. 14
MORGAN STATE
Nov. 21
@BALTIMORE, M.D.
Spartan volleyball knows health is the key for a bounce back season by Jason Gill NSU’s volleyball team comes into this season trying to make amends for an abysmal 2-22 record from last year. While there were many variables that factored into the team’s struggles last year, injuries proved to be the most significant one. Key players, including seniors Jasmin Flowers and Noelle Eagles, were expected to make huge contributions, but were unable to get on the court much due to injury. “It was a weird year last year,” said head coach Brandon Duvall. “I talked to a lot of coaches and they said that we’ve all been there. I guess it was just my time to be there. We thought those two seniors would be leading the way and they both ended up having surgery prior to the season.”
Jessica Johnson, who is a senior this year and led the team in pointsper-serve last season, also struggled to stay healthy. With a clean bill of health and the experience she has gained throughout her career, coach Duvall expects big things from her this season. “Jessica just needs to improve with her physicality. She was one of the ones that really struggled to stay healthy,” said Duvall. We saw her as someone that should be 1st team All-MEAC. She has struggled with consistency in the past, but we look for her to be one of the best all-around players on the floor.” The Lady Spartans didn’t shy away from the tough competition last season and the same can be said for this season.
Facing one of the toughest non-conference schedules in the country could prove to help NSU in the long run. “We want to be successful, but we purposely tried to compete against some very tough competition,” said Duvall. “In the scheme of things we’re not vying for an at-large bid [into the NCAA tournament]. The only way we can make the tournament is to win the MEAC.” The key statistical category that the Lady Spartans know they must correct this season is the amount of errors committed. Last season NSU committed 600 errors compared to just 357 by their opponents. “That was 100 percent the issue…the only thing that separates the starters from the non-starters is the level of execution,” said
Duvall. “When we started to lose our starters we realized that the people who did get a chance to play didn’t execute as well. That’s where we suffered the most was the amount of errors we were committing. We had a lot of inexperience on the floor.” The success of this year’s team will bank on the level of improvement from several players. Every season coach Duvall looks for several women to take the next step. “One of the big ones is Dominique Parker. She is going into her junior year and she has been a starter on this roster for a couple of seasons now. We’re really looking for her to come out and showcase her stuff. “Another one, which is tough to say she strug-
gled, but we watched her play well until she got hurt is Hope Forsythe. She is a rising sophomore. The deal with her is she didn’t really get a chance for anyone in the conference to see her play. We saw her in the preseason and she did really well,” said Duvall. The Spartans, who are using the fact they’ve been picked to finish 6th in the MEAC as motivation, open up the season on August 28 when they travel to Williamsburg to face La Salle in the Tribe Invitational. “I actually kind of like that we are picked so low. A lot of that is based off of what happened last year. If we are mentally prepared and physically healthy, the MEAC doesn’t know what we have,” said Duvall.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
spartan lifestyle
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College students’ guide to money by Shareen Nicholson Every student could use a little extra money in their pocket. When it comes to college, there are always times when money is needed, whether it is for food, books or even a party. There are many job opportunities that are available right from the comfort of your dorm. Many students sell items, whether it is snacks, hair, party tickets and even the occasional service such as a photo shoot session. Selling old textbooks to sites such as eBay, Amazon, or even Chegg can put some change in your pocket. Another new paid opportunity is taking online surveys. Some sites offer cash, gift cards and even other gifts as a bonus. Tutoring is widely needed on college campuses and can be a fulfilling job when done. Offering to tutor students in classes and subjects that you are successful in can not only put cash in your pocket, but the feeling of knowing that you helped someone will also come as a bonus. Tutoring sessions can range from $20$50 depending on the course difficulty. Another alternative is to seek tutoring employment at on-campus tutoring centers. Technology repair is great for those who are tech savvy. For those who know how to navigate computers offering
computer repair services can be a good way to earn money and is a great way to test your skills hands-on. Party promoters are always needed on college campuses to get the word out about the next “party of the semester.” Most promoters earn money for tickets sold and can usually score a free ticket themselves. This can be done online through social media and as well as campus wide when hard tickets are being sold. Uber is the newest way to make money by doing something that is regularly done anyways. Becoming an Uber driver is easy as long as you have a car and some time. You can set your own schedule and possibly meet some cool people along the way. Applying for workstudy is an easy way to earn money on campus. Working right where you study and working with friends is always great. Lastly, getting a part time job is always an option. Whether it be retail or fast food, these jobs are a guaranteed check. Most employers are flexible and will work around your school schedule and coordinate work hours with what best works for you.
Starting your college career can bring a whirlwind of emotions. Photo by Storm Calder
Freshman Survival: Life at NSU by Shareen Nicholson Setting foot on a college campus can be an exciting and scary time. Most freshman are excited about being in a new environment, but the feeling of being lost and unsure can be unsettling. When it comes to Norfolk State, there are things every incoming freshman should know. Keep in mind that some choices made during ones freshman year can impact their entire college career. Coming in with a positive attitude can make for a great semester, especially with goals in mind of what one wants to achieve. Here at Norfolk State anyone will tell you that your experience is what you make it. If you choose to stay in your room and not enjoy all that campus has to offer, you will not enjoy your time here. Getting out and making friends is a great first step to getting involved on campus.
When it comes to friends, your roommate is usually the first friend you will make. Having a positive rooming situation will help you to adjust to living with someone else and will help support a positive environment. Being respectful and mindful of your roommate’s space and things is also very important. Dining times on campus vary, so it is vital that you become familiar with the times. Also, be mindful of how often you are eating based on your meal plan choice. Being aware can be the difference between using your “swipes” and using your dining dollars. “Remember that dining dollars don’t start over every week like meal plan does, once the dollars are gone that’s it,” Senior Latrace Holland said. Another thing to keep track of is your time. Most new college students learn the hard way that keeping
track of assignment deadlines, campus activities and trying to have a social life can be difficult. Using a planner or calendar can keep you on top of what needs to be done. Getting to know your professors is another important tip. “Talk to your professors, have a relationship with them and send them thank you letters at the end,” Junior Ravin Vick said. While there are countless tips to be given about having a successful time in college, there is no specific way to go about it. “The best advice to be given to freshman is for them to remember why they’re here which is to get their education, being here is the beginning getting out is the goal,” Senior Chelsea Simpson said.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
08.28.15
spartan lifestyle New seasons, new fashions by Shareen Nicholson
When it comes to the fall, most people feel that it is the best time to show off their fashion style. While trends come and go, some things just never go out of style and most people take advantage of that. “I would say it’s the ability to have multiple different styles, like being able to accessorize with blazers, hats and different kinds of shoes. It’s the best season because it’s not too hot or too cold for most pieces of clothing so you can really expand your outfits in many ways” senior Robert Williams lll said. Fall weather usually brings out the newest trends and here on campus, there is no doubt that these trends will be seen. This fall the fashion trends seem to be oversized sweaters, double denim, dark colors, cargos, and joggers. While many of these will be showcased on Instagram, Tumblr, and even your
A young model stops and turns at the end of the runway during a Ralph Lauren children;s Fall fashion show, Wednesday Aug. 5, 2015 in New York. Polo hosted a show to promote children’s literacy but also to promote the October film, “Pan,” which is Peter Pan’s origin story. Photo by Julie Jacobson | Associated Press
favorite stores, many people will argue that it’s not what you wear but how you wear it. While your favorite stores will carry all of the latest styles, thrifting has swept the nation allowing style to be “cool” and “old-school”. Most items found in thrift stores are old, have a vintage flair
and a one of a kind style that can’t be duplicated. With many thrift stores in the Hampton Roads area, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Boots are always a fall favorite because they allow for versatility. They can be worn dressed down and dressed up and are a comfortable
footwear choice. A timeless favorite has been Timberland boots which can be found in a variety of colors and styles to accompany any outfit choice. “I love the fall because I can easily throw on a pair of jeans or leggings with some boots and a top and hurry off to class. They’re comfortable to navigate in around campus and there are so many different kinds; Short ones, tall ones, you just can’t go wrong,” sophomore Tiara Jacobs said. Don’t forget your accessories. No fall fashion style is complete without them. Scarves are always a go to item to add to any outfit and can add an extra layer of warmth on cold days. Chunky jewelry, gold watches and chains continue to be an ongoing trend throughout the seasons.
Our President’s Schedule Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2:00-5:00 p.m. Student Office Hours (Student Center, room 331) Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2:00-5:00 p.m. Faculty & Staff Office Hours (Student Center, room 331) Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2:00-5:00 p.m. Student Office Hours (Student Center, room 331)
HOW TO REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT TO MEET WITH THE PRESIDENT Appointments to meet with President Moore can be requested by completing the APPOINTMENT REQUEST FORM 2015-2016 form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ BLH9CZY. Identify at least two (2) dates and times at least three (3) business days in advance of your preferred date and time. The request will be forwarded to the President’s Office for review and scheduling. Reasonable efforts to provide a confirmation of the appointment date/time or an alternate within 48 hours of the request will be made.
Student Office Hours: Current students can request a 30-minute appointment with the President in his satellite office at the Student Center.
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editors Danielle Kirsh Editor-in-Chief
Chantelle Polite
Online/Managing Editor
Richelle Hammiel News Editor
Shareen Nicholson Lifestyle Editor
Jason Gill
Sports Editor
Mahogany Waldon Entertainment Editor
Storm Calder
Multimedia Editor
Faculty and Staff Office Hours: Current employees can request a 30-minute appointment with the President in his satellite office at the Student Center.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu
spartan entertainment
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“Good Kid” with some “Bad Blood” by Mahogany Waldon After taking a look at the nominations for this year’s Video Music Awards presented by MTV, one gets the feeling that “we gon’ be alright!”. Compton Rapper, Kendrick Lamar is up for several nominations including a few for his feature on Taylor Swift’s “Bad Blood.” The “Good Kid” has come a long way from his hit album “Good Kid, Maad City,” but his verses are still true to his socially controversial style. Lamar’s song “Alright” has three nominations including Best Male Video and Best Hip-Hop Video. The politically charged video that focuses on police brutality across the nation was dropped earlier this summer after Lamar’s performance of the song at this year’s BET Awards. The song “Never Catch Me” by Flying Locust, also featuring Lamar, has a nom-
ination as well. Lamar is also up for nominations for his song with Swift “Bad Blood.” The heroine of Hollywood Swift has five nominations for the hit that was supposedly written as an ode to her beef with former BFF Katy Perry. Swift has also caused some bad blood over the summer with fellow artist Nicki Minaj. Minaj took to Twitter to announce her disdain for her video “Anaconda” not receiving the nomination she wanted due to what she believes is a lack of Black female artistry represented by the awards. Swift reacted to Minaj on Twitter by defending the Awards Show and saying it wasn’t about race and women should stand together. This year’s VMA Awards will be hosted by Miley Cyrus on Aug. 30.
Miley Cyrus announced via her twitter account that she would be hosting the 2015 Video Music Awards. Photo by Jack Plunkett | Associated Press
First Lady Michelle Obama is joined by rapper Wale in the White House for the 2015 “Beating the Odds Summit.” More than 100 students learned new techniques and straegies to help their transition from high school to college. Photo by Cliff Owen | Associated Press
Rapper Wale and the First Lady team up for Beating the Odds Summit by Mahogany Waldon This summer, First Lady Michelle Obama traded in her boogie shoes and dance moves to plan her newest initiative, the Beating the Odds Summit. The event took place late July at the White House. The First Lady invited 140 students who are preparing to attend college who came from backgrounds in either special needs, low income, under served, homelessness and foster homes, the students who have defied the odds that were stacked against them. The Press Office of the White House said that “the event will focus on sharing tools and strategies students can use to successfully transition to college.” The only invited musician to the Summit was DMV rapper, Wale.
Known to speak on issues including education, misogyny, and being the “one” who made it, Wale was the perfect performer for the students. Wale has had his own journey with higher education. Born Olubowale Victor Akintimehin, rapper Wale is of Nigerian descent. He attended Robert Morris University and Virginia State University on football scholarships, but he dropped out of school to pursue his music career. Wale has one of the most poetic rap styles in the industry, staying true to the mantra that rap is “rhythm assisted poetry.” Wale was also on the panel of speakers for the Summit. Despite not finishing school, Wale’s partnership with the First Lady on this initiative is admirable.
Michelle Obama has been a champion for the youth who are the future history makers. She has made history in her own life being the first African American First Lady of the United States. “I wouldn’t be where I am without education. And I say that time and time again. I was blessed to have parents who didn’t go to college, but they knew that an investment in education was the best gift they could give me,” Michelle Obama said at the Beating the Odds Summit. For students who probably never dreamed of being invited to the White House, seeing two people who also beat various odds in their lives at this event was sure to give them the drive they need to reach higher.
SPARTAN ECHO| Norfolk State University 700 Park Avenue Norfolk, Virginia 23504|NEWSROOM: 757.823.8200 E-Mail: spartanecho@nsu.edu