MARCH 7, 2016 | @THEHILLTOPHU | VOLUME 100 ISSUE 27
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CAMPUS Graduate Trustee Name: Tyrone Hankerson, Jr. Major: Law Classification: First-year Law Student (1L) Running for: Graduate Trustee Name of platform: "C.A.L.L. Tyrone". The 'call' stands for Communication Accountability Leadership and Legacy. What is your platform about: As a major University that serves as a conduit for students of color to achieve greater success, our University faces unique challenges that require the most competent and engaged persons to resolve. "C.A.L.L. Tyrone" seeks to address many of the issues that our University faces. These areas are: Communication, Accountability, Leadership, and Legacy. Please note, the Trustee position are more macro in their scope and address University wide policy changes. The Trustee position is not one created with the purpose of program advancement. What do you plan to implement if chosen: Communication- I find that many students have issues with communication at various levels across the University. Rather that be from administrator to student, faculty to student, administration to faculty, or student to student, the communication barriers we face act as barriers for optimum organizational efficiency. For this reason, I want to work with the Board with creating new and innovative policies for how communication is disseminated throughout the University, and work with University leadership (administration and student) to create a program that supports and implements the communication policies. Accountability- Currently, some 70% of higher level student leader positions are held by male students. Under social accountability, we will work to create better systems that support women's advancement and achievement. Implementing these systems matters not only for the University, but also, our professional world outside of the Mecca. We want to create policies that foster an environment that all people are given the resources they need to pursue greater opportunities. Additionally, we must continue to create policies that combat rape culture and other misogynistic influences on our campus. In addition, we must create better systems that allow for diversity and inclusion through self-identifying opportunities, as we appoint people to policy and other decision making boards to assure proper representation makes collective decisions. Leadership- This is one of the greatest things about the Mecca. The opportunity to become leaders. As graduate trustee, I intend to use my seat as a way to partner with outside organizations so that we can create pipelines for our students to transition into positions beyond the land our University occupies. Legacy- I want my children to be able to come back to the Yard and be pinned as incoming students. The Mecca is the place that has changed my world, and I am honored to have been educated at this esteemed place. Simply, I feel a duty to give others that opportunity. I plan to do this by making sound decisions that furthers this University. What is your reason for running: My reason for running is attributed mostly to the final "L" in "C.A.L.L. Tyrone". Legacy. I want to see this University here and in good condition physically, financially, and spiritually 150 years from now. Sitting with the body of individuals who make the decisions that work towards that goal would best serve my wanting to create a better, stronger, more connected Howard University. Name: Innocent Akujuobi Major: Medicine  Classification: Third Year Running for: Graduate Trustee Name of platform: Of the People, For the People What is your platform about: Campaign Pillars: Communication, Tenacity, Transparency What do you plan to implement if chosen: 7 Point Agenda: T- Tenaciously advocating for graduate students in the boardroom R- Revitalizing communication and support with current graduate students U- Unifying the concerns of graduate schools and colleges across campus S- Spearheading efforts that stress the importance of graduate students remaining committed to Howard University
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following graduation (whether financially or through alumni leadership) T- Translating student Concerns E- Educating students on the scope of practice of the Graduate Trustee E- Excellence (practicing excellence in every field of human endeavors) What is your reason for running: My primary reason for running for Graduate Trustee revolves around the concept of "gratitude." Dating back to the fall of 2009 when I arrived on campus as a freshmen, Howard University has continuously sewn into my success as a student and aided in my cultivation as a young professional. While reflecting on my appreciation of this great university, I came to the realization that it is my duty to pay it forward through service as a student leader before I graduate next year. I chose the position of Graduate Trustee in particular because over the past three years here as a professional student, I have developed a perspective of the common concerns and viewpoints of the graduate student body that I would like to bring to the board of trustees.
Undergraduate Trustee Name: Carolyn Williams Major: Legal Communication Classification: Junior Running for: Undergraduate Trustee Name of platform: AIM What is your platform about: My platform focuses on laying a foundation for future undergraduate trustees while ensuring that students are actually aware of what the position entails. I want students to know the power of fundraising and why it is a necessity for our university. What do you plan to implement if chosen: If chosen, I plan on working with the Board of Trustees to bring visibility to the We Are Howard campaign, create a fund for international students and their care in America as well as transforming the orientation process so that students are financially literate and able to understand the commitment hat they are embarking on. I have other plans such as experiential credit and a leadership council as well they would focus on student advocacy and communication with the Board of Trustees. What is your reason for running: I am running because this is a position that I have eyed since I got to campus. I have worked with Boards in the past as well as being on councils and boards at Howard during my undergraduate career. There is no better way to focus on betterment than to create it. I want to build on the work that I have already started at Howard and to hold myself as well as others, accountable for the state of our university. I would be honored to serve on behalf of my peers on the Board and to vote as a student representative. I know that my commitment to Howard University is so much more than my degree, I have a duty of truth and service to ensure that The Mecca maintains its care to the community in total. Name: Jasmine Morris Major: Accounting Classification: Junior Running for: Undergraduate Trustee Name of platform: Restore What is your platform about: My platform Restore is a living document created by the students for the students. It aims to Restore Relationships, Accountability, and Standards within Howard University. What do you plan to implement if chosen: As a true advocate aspiring to see our school improve, my platform name has been dutifully named “Restore HU”. My three pillars consist of relationships, accountability, and standards. This represents a new step for ensuring the success of our Howard students, including “My Bison’s Keeper”, which is a mentorship program in each major of accordance with our Howard alumni. I plan to take this a step further with "Tap Your Trustee" initiative, where students will have two hours every week with me to voice their concerns of the school. Professors will be held accountable for being of service to the students and their education by having consistent evaluations, continuously updating training procedures to adapt to the times, and communicating the severity of recent cuts among professors and how this affects the student body, negatively, as a whole. Lastly, attending to the issues of the financial aid office to create a more transparent relationship between financial aid and its students, revamping the career fairs that are targeted to more diverse career fields, and grooming Freshmen from the start by presenting them with all of Howard’s procedures and processes during Freshman orientation. My intent is to provide the student perspective. I intend to work as a liaison between the students and administration to get students’ voices heard effectively. What is your reason for running: I am running for the position of Undergraduate Trustee because I am ready to bring these issues to the people that matter. I am tired of the Howard Run-a-round and the red tape. I am ready to listen to the student body and Restore the University by making small changes that create big impact. Through my experience in SOB council, HUSA 54, a Team Leader in SOB, the HUSA Senate and on Non-profits I have seen the delicate intricacies of running a Non-Profit and can bring that experience and perspective to the Board. In experiencing that I have seen and believe a University can run as a Thriving business, but provide good customer service to its customers that make such a huge investment. I am also invested in the students and have shown that through the fact that I got all 380 signatures without a petition team to actually engage with the students. It is time that we abandon the rhetoric and formal politics and actually take the battle to the boardroom.
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HUSA President & Vice-President Name: James Walker III & Aliyah Rolack Major: Administration of Justice (James Walker III); International Business Management (Aliyah) Classification: Junior Name of platform: PIVOT HU What is the platform about: In the same way a pivot is the central point on which a mechanism changes direction, the purpose of the PIVOT Movement is to recreate the way in which HUSA operates and reform the University’s operations to better serve students. This recreation will manifest itself in the 56th HUSA Administration in the way staff members are utilized, increased collaboration with other student government leaders and bodies, and broadened student engagement. It will manifest in Howard University’s operations through improved customer service and the implementation of services better designed to empower students and address their needs. This is a pivotal moment in our University's history- the changes that we make, or fail to make, will impact each of us. This platform is centered on the belief that such changes are possible and necessary in order for student government to be effective and beneficial to students. What do you plan to implement if chosen:The PIVOT slate would begin our work by implementing the “Four Pivotal Phases:” Integration: To create a stronger, more cohesive, and more resourceful student government; Customer Service: To restructure Howard University services to improve the student experience; Competence: To empower students to navigate Howard and prepare for the world beyond; and Well-being: To reform how Howard addresses issues of domestic violence, rape culture, mental health, and disability. What is your reason for running: We, as PIVOT, plan to continuously promote Truth, Excellence, Leadership, and Service in a way that empowers all of us to do the same. By having a positive impact and speaking up for those who feel voiceless, we create ripple effect that can only expand. This is why the PIVOT movement is about all of us, created by all of us, and for all of us.
Name: Allyson Carpenter & Jordan Roper Major: Political Science Major, Community Development Minor (Allyson); Accounting (Roper) Classification: Junior Running for: HUSA President and Vice-President Name of platform: FOCUS (Focus on HU) What is your platform about: We recognize that there are great challenges facing Howard University. FOCUS is about reinvigorating student government so that dedicated leaders can help tackle the problems holding us back. Our platform outlines pragmatic policy solutions that engage student leaders, administrators, alumni, and government officials. We are treating our platform as a checklist, rather than a vague set of ideals, so that students can hold us accountable. What do you plan to implement if chosen: We are committed to starting programs that help students overcome the financial and academic burdens that stand in the way of graduation. We will tap into student funds to provide unpaid internship grants and an emergency grant for graduating seniors with an outstanding balance. Allyson and Jordan are also working to implement a departmental ban on unnecessarily costly textbooks. Our platform also addresses the shoddy WiFi network, calling for the establishment of independent networks for different buildings and dorms. What is your reason for running: Allyson and Jordan are running for HUSA President and Vice President because they care deeply about Howard but are concerned with the state of the university. Allyson’s role as a local elected official and Jordan’s experience working campus administrators allowed them to understand the complexities of the problems facing Howard and how to adequately address them. These accomplished leaders are determined and willing to work beyond the confines of student government to get things done for the student body. More importantly, Allyson and Jordan are focused — not on building their resumes or advancing personal agendas, but focused on moving Howard University forward. Name: Ammon Lyle & Temilayo Butler Major: Finance (Ammon), International Business (Temilayo) Classification: Junior Running for: HUSA President and Vice-President Name of platform: SynergizeHU What is your platform about: Synergy is the creation of a whole that is greater than the simple sum of its parts. The term synergy comes from a Greek word meaning "working together." We are running for HUSA President and Vice President because we believe in the importance of working together. In terms of the concerns of the student body, we will offer realistic solutions to real problems with the singular aim of improving student life. If elected, we promise to continue our strong record of leadership, dedication, and progress within the school of business. As the 56th Howard University Student Administration, Synergy aims to transform the interaction between the academic, administrative and organizational processes of Howard University. What do you plan to implement if chosen: To briefly outline some of the programs we would like to implement, we have already drafted and structured a stimulus bill, increasing funds for several organizations such as Royal Court, Student Councils, and Homecoming. We have already passed a bill to host the first inaugural Howard day, celebrating Howard’s legacy through a fun festival and University Wide community service day. Synergy plans to audit and the entire Student and
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Academic Code of Conduct with a team of pre-law students to embed a layer of protection for the interests of the student body. To assist students with their judicial hearings, Synergy will create a Student Attorney Program in combination with the nationally ranked Howard University Mock Trial team and the Howard University Law School. We will also push for the creation of a HU Police Application. This addition would be included on the Howard Mobile Application for students to access all campus police updates and correspondence for free. The app would include all crime alerts, emergency communication services, and overall safety tips. What is your reason for running: We are running for this position for the simple reason that we believe that we can make a difference. Throughout our University’s career we have always been student leaders, and we have always strived to make this University a better place. As we approach our senior year, we cannot think of a better way to give back to a University that has helped us accomplish so many things, than to be instrumental in making sure it is the best it can be. We are running because we believe we can represent the student body well. We are running because we believe that as a whole we are greater than the simple sum of our parts.
HUSA Senate Name: Kiani Strong Major: Administration of Justice (Minor: Sociology) Classification: Freshman Running for: COAS HUSA Senate Name of platform: Discover What is your platform about: Discover has the mission of discovering new ways to make Howard University greater from inside out. What do you plan to implement if chosen: We plan to discover new ways to bridge the gap between organizations due to the fact that often times organizations become cliques and are only focused on building up their own names instead of everyones because together we all make Howard and strength is in numbers, cooperation, and teamwork. We also plan to discover new ways that actually better the relationship and association between administration, faculty, and students effectively. Often times administration doesn’t hear the students out because of communication barriers and faculty doesn’t always have the best attitude towards students and we hope to bring change to this matter. What is your reason for running: I want to be apart of Howard's legacy of "Truth & Service” by being transparent and keeping my peers in the loop of all things going on in and around our campus. I would like to serve the student body by being their voice, being that person they can come to with questions and concerns, along with being someone they know who is willing to put in the work to make things happen for them and Howard. Name: Tiera Williams Major: Finance Classification: Junior Running for: School of Business HUSA Senate Name of platform: Action on Demand What is your platform about: As a member of this organization, my top priority would be to bring our diverse community together by listening to student’s inputs and help put them into action. What do you plan to implement if chosen: Improve accountability, communication, and progressiveness in the minds of fellow Senators and students. What is your reason for running: I feel a desire to serve in a position that would allowme to help enhance the university experience of my fellow students inthe School of Business. Our building may be old, but our minds aresharp and our hearts full with a love of learning, striving to discover thebest ways in which we may serve our fellow Bison. Name: Jonathan Smith Major: Supply Chain Management Classification: Sophomore Running for: School of Business HUSA Senate Name of platform: I am running for SOB HUSA Senate under the platform Vision: A Vision of Clarity, A Vision for the Future. What is your platform about: With my platform, Vision, I hope to make the Senate more visible, as well as other areas of the student government. In order for these bodies to best serve the students, the students have to understand what is being done. What you plan to implement: What I hope to do is open up vision within the senate and help students understand, create set ways of communication between the Local Councils and the Senate, and provide opportunities to meet with Senators to discuss pressing issues. This will allow for greater advocacy, more complex and impactful proposals, and better allocation of funds and resources. Beyond my basic platform, I hope to also implement Leadership Evaluations to help keep elected officials accountable for the work they have promised to do.
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What is your reason for running: I want to be a Senator because I feel that with the experience I have with School of Business, it is my duty to take what I have learned to be able to better help my classmates and make Howard and the School of Business a better place for future students. Name: Tamea Williams Major: Biology Classification: Freshman Running for: COAS HUSA Senate Name of platform: Discover What is your platform about: Our platform is about discovering new and effective solutions to the concerns of the student body. What do you plan to implement if chosen: One of our main goals is to have a common understanding between Administration and the students so that one side does not feel powerless to the other. Our slate Discover also intends to increase the transparency between students and administration and unite organizations throughout the campus to promote unity. What is your reason for running: I want to run for HUSA Senate because I believe that the many problems that go on at our University are unacceptable. This position will allow me to take action to see the change I envision.
DON'T FORGET TO
VOTE MARCH 8TH ON BISON WEB! POLLS OPEN AT 8 AM AND CLOSE AT 9 PM.
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Updates on Meridian Hill Hall: An in-depth interview with Howard’s VP of real estate
PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR
Will Fuller News Editor
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he Hilltop’s News Editor, Will Fuller, sat down with Anthony Freeman, Howard’s vice president of real estate, March 2 amid the university’s decision to lease Meridian Hill Hall to Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners for a capitalized 99-year lease, requiring $22 million upfront. In an effort to clear confusion about the deal and provide the Howard community with an outlook of the university’s vision, Freeman agreed to address the following questions: Why did the university decide to lease the building? Freeman: “Our strategy supports our overall plan to diversify revenue streams and identify capital sources to reinvest in the campus. We want to use the funds to invest in the needs of the university. We [the university] were able to capture the value of the lease upfront in what we call a capitalized lease. Over time as the property increases in value, Howard will also capitalize on the increased value.” How will the capital gained from Meridian Hill Hall benefit the Howard community at-large? Freeman: “We will have a program where Howard students and faculty and staff members get the first right or option to rent the apartments. It will be an ongoing program where Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners will let us know when space is available [at the new condominiums].
We will work with student housing representatives and/or the provost office to make sure our faculty, staff and students know what’s available.” How will the capital gained benefit current Howard students specifically? Freeman: “We [in partnership with Jair Lynch Real Estate] are developing an internship program for Howard students. The program will be specifically geared toward architecture students to give them exposure to the predevelopment and development process of turning Meridian Hill Hall into condominiums.” Why were so many developers interested in the property and why did you’ll decide on Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners? Freeman: “The overall rental market in D.C. is pretty strong. Meridian Hill Hall is in a great location, and it’s historic in nature. Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners brought the highest value to the university and, in fact, he closed ahead of time in anticipation of this deal. We have a diverse developer with Howard ties, and we got a fair market value for the lease with over ten developers responding.” Why did the university decide to lease the property instead of selling it? Freeman: “We want to control our asset and participate in the value. The university’s goal is also to maintain, grow and keep control of our assets.” Why is the building being turned into
PHOTO COURTESY OF LINKEDIN
condominiums and not student housing? Freeman: “It [the decision] was beneficial because it helped redevelop our property. The master plan envisioned student housing
more closely knit to the university. Since Meridian is off campus, the thought of it as a student use isn’t as primary as moving everyone back.”
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DROP: “Don’t Be That Crab in The Barrel” Malcolm Wyche Contributing Writer
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ave you ever seen crabs in a barrel? They’re not friendly once they realize that the only way out of the barrel is to climb on top of each other. All notions of teamwork and unity disappear. The crab in the barrel only has one goal: to come out on top no matter what. They don’t look back. They don’t care if you make it too. Their only concern is themselves. Do you really want to be that crab in the barrel? We’re living in an age of creativity. Everybody wants to do something. Whether it’s art, music, fashion design, event planning- anything can be done these days. We have all the tools available to us where everybody can live out their dream career. It’s a wonderful thing to see. It’s always nice to see people put their plans into action and make dreams
come true. One of the best parts about being a creative is having the opportunity to collaborate with others. When two visions come together the results can be a truly beautiful thing. I’m all the way here for it. But there’s a downside to this as well. Not everybody wants to see you win. Not everybody is as open to everybody winning as I am. There are some people that don’t believe we can all win. These are the people that just want to win without supporting anybody else. I’ve encountered my fair share of people that refuse to work peacefully. We’ve all come across people that don’t show love for someone that’s grinding to accomplish a goal- especially if that goal is similar to theirs. Knowing that people will really plot on your downfall is an interesting concept to wrap your brain around.
"There are some people that don’t believe we can all win."
It’s even more interesting to know that the crabs in the barrel have no reason for acting the way they do. There’s enough resources, money and luxuries in this world for everybody to enjoy. And who wants to enjoy all the fruits of success by themselves? That’s not what life’s about. Everybody can’t be the star and everybody shouldn’t want to be the star. It’s all about finding your niche and doing what works for you. We’re in what is arguably the best stages of our lives. We’re young, able and motivated. We should be enjoying each other’s company and creativity to the fullest. We’re surrounded by so much potential and it would be a shame to see it all go to waste. Never be afraid to extend a helping hand to someone. Never turn down working with someone out of pride or worry aboutbeing in the spotlight.
You can’t do it alone. Nobody has attained greatness without anybody on their side. As we continue to grow, we have to help those around us grow as well. You never know what connections someone has that you may be able to use to your advantage. You never know just how much you might be able to help somebody. Be open to collaboration and put yourself out there for others to contribute to your success. Take advantage of your network and surround yourself with those fueled by the same motivation to obtain success. Nobody wants to work with a crab in the barrel.
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN RANKIN CHAPEL
Did you know that there are locations on campus for silent prayer and mediation? Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel Monday – Friday ~ 8:30 A.M. – 5:30 P.M. Interfaith Prayer Room (Blackburn Center Room 142) Daily ~ 7:00 A.M. – 10:00 P.M.
Holy Week Maundy Thursday, March 24, 2016 Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel, 12 Noon Service of Communion & Footwashing Good Friday, March 25, 2016 Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel, 12 Noon Seven Last Words as expressed through The Arts Participating Ministries Include: The Howard University Community Choir The Howard Gospel Choir Beacon Liturgical Dancers Living Stones Worship & Arts Ministry
Enjoy Spring Break! “Deeper in Faith – Wider in Community”
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NEWS OP-ED: Black Students, Black Teachers: Educational Equity in America Cameron Clarke Staff Writer
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ducation in America is in a state of disrepair. From the mold seeping from the floors of our kindergarten classrooms to the heightening tuitions of our universities, the entire infrastructure of American education is trembling. When the entire building quakes, no one feels the tremors more intensely than African-American children. Our educational system is failing our young minds as it has been for generations. Our children are being treated as criminals from the moment they set foot into a classroom to the moment their school turns them into one. According to a recent report from the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, Black students and other racial minorities are more likely to be disciplined, less likely to have access to rigorous and challenging
coursework and taught by less experienced teachers than Caucasian students. In a system like this, with the entire deck stacked against them, it is a wonder any Black students manage to succeed at all. Despite near-identical rates of behavioral issues, Black students are suspended and expelled three times more than Caucasian students. Behavior that is viewed as harmless mischief in a white classroom, is elevated to criminality when viewed through a lens of oppression. Even in preschool, before Black children are expected to be able to read or count, they’re being conditioned for a life of punishment and discipline. At less than 20 percent of preschool enrollment, Black children – Black babies – compose more than half of all preschool suspensions. And it goes beyond discipline. Black students are being discouraged from academic challenges, and shepherded
into less rigorous, less demanding courses that fail to prepare them for higher levels and college. Although Black students are taking more course credits by graduation than any other race, they are much less likely to be enrolled in any of the full
“The problem isn’t lack of ability; it’s lack of opportunity. ” spectrum of math and science courses. Algebra, biology, calculus, chemistry, geometry and physics – only half of Black students even attend schools where all of these courses are offered. When these students matriculate into universities across the country,
their lack of secondary preparation disproportionately lands them in remedial education, or causes them to fail to graduate altogether. The problem isn’t lack of ability; it’s lack of opportunity. Black students in communities across the country are being neglected by their city. State Departments of Education, and the federal government, in its ceaseless push to standardize education, have become just another part of the problem. Even encouraging more black professionals to enter the education field is not, in and of itself, a viable solution. The majority of teachers in urban settings are already black, and their students fare no better in achievement or outcomes. Black teachers alone are not enough, and subpar Black teachers, those who treat our children with the same disdain as the criminal justice system, are fewer in number. What our children need are exceptional black
teachers. One needs look no further than the condition of Detroit Public Schools, recently the location of several citywide “sick outs” to see that teaching is hardly an appealing profession for any but the most inspired individuals. For an example closer to home, consider the flagging enrollment of the School of Education on our very own campus. The solution, if there is any, is a drastic recalibration of this nation’s educational priorities. We need to incentivize the smartest, most talented Black scholars to return to academia and teach. Currently, the salary gap between high schools with the largest populations of Black students and those with the smallest is more than $5,000 a year. We must invert that gap if we are going to reverse the one in education. Only by restoring the dignity of the Black educator can we finally alter the fate of the Black student.
Howard Middle School counselor named 2016 DC School Counselor of Year Will Fuller News Editor
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awarded for her DC honor April 9 at Wheatley Education Campus.
arletta Hurt, eighth grade counselor and team lead at the Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science (MS)², was recently named 2016 D.C. School Counselor of the Year by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA).
“She is the epitome of what a school counselor should be caring, attentive, understanding and someone who works tirelessly to make sure that students are supported socially, emotionally and academically,” said Kathryn Procope, head of school at Howard University School of Mathematics and Science.
“I love making a life-long positive impact on students because I’m planting seeds, and I understand that everything I do or say to my kids are worth it,” Hurt said. “This is the first year D.C. has had representation, and the positive affirmation was worth it.”
To make the transition from middle school to high school soother for her students, Hurt started a transition program five years ago to help students with interviews, essays and financial aid award applications.
In January, Hurt was honored along with the other state winners and finalists by First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House and formally recognized during a black-tie gala at Union Station. Hurt will be officially
Hurt has also made an impact on Howard University students. The native Georgian has been preparing other aspiring school counselors like graduate student Diane Placide, counseling associate at Howard University
PHOTO BY LEANNA COMMINS, HU NEWS SERVICE
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Middle School of Mathematics and Science, to follow in her footsteps. “She has always been an amazing mentor to me,” Placide said. “My major is school counseling
and it’s nice to see her achieve recognitions like School Counselor of the Year because I know accomplishments like hers are reachable.” In addition her transition program,
Hurt manages the middle school’s alumni program, night tutoring program and high school fair that gives students an opportunity to determine which high school they would be interested in attending.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR
The HIV/AIDS Epidemic: What You Need to Know Amber Broaden Staff Writer
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espite dropping 40 percent since 2009, Washington, D.C.’s 2.5 percent HIV infection rate is still a major threat to residents in the District. Dr. David Bowen, director of Student Health at Howard University’s Student Health Center, advises students not to be naïve or vulnerable with their sexual health. He suggests students assume their sexual partner is having sex with other people. “Our psychology can skew with sex,” Bowen said. “We can often be fooled about how good a person is due to us having the pleasure part of sex.” HIV and AIDS have had a major presence in the District of Columbia. According to a report released by the District of Columbia Department of Health
HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD and TB Administration (HAHSTA), 16,470 DC residents were diagnosed with the HIV disease between Jan. 1, 2014 and Dec. 31, 2014. “You have to know what you’re getting into and what’s getting into you,” Bowen said. “Be responsible for having open sexual conversations with your partner and get tested. Decisions made now will impact future.” Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)is a three-stage virus that can be transmitted through blood, pre-cum or semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk.Today, the virus is most prominently spread through unprotected vaginal and anal sex with someone who has the virus. “It can take anyone approximately eight years to develop HIV, and slight flu-like symptoms may be experienced when first infected, but nothing usually signals the disease,” said Bowen.
The final stage of the virus, the most critical stage, is the transition from HIV to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), that, without treatment, can result in death and critical injuries. The statistics of African Americans affected by HIV nationwide are staggering. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in every 16 Black men and one in every 32 Black women will be infected by HIV in their lifetime. “HIV/AIDS is very prevalent in our community, especially among the LGBT [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transexual] community,” said Darwin Thompson, the executive Director of NAESM, Inc., a nonprofit grassroots organization that specializes in health disparities for marginalized populations by offering programs both locally and nationally to help end the spread of HIV.
While Blacks represent about 12 percent of the United States population, they account for more than 44 percent of new HIV diagnoses, and 41 percent of people living with HIV than any other ethnic group, the CDC reported. LGBT Africans Americans are at an even greater risk of contracting HIV. “When we really think about HIV/AIDS, we place a high emphasis on Black gay men between the ages of 13-29,” Thompson said. If you, or someone you know, believe you have contracting HIV or who tested positive for it, there are campus-wide resources and groups available that can help. HUH C.A.R.E.S. is an on campus prevention and testing site that also offers other HIV testing sites in various areas of Washington, D.C. For those engaged in sexual relationships with people who
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have contracted the HIV virus, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, also known as PrEP, is available to reduce the risk of contracting the virus through two medicines. The medicines must be within 72 hours of exposure and must be taken daily. PrEP is only available to those who face an ongoing risk of HIV infection. PrEP can be made available through one’s healthcare provider. “The most important thing I want people to [know] is that HIV is preventable,” Thompson said. “With new tools in our tool box such as PrEP and other highly effective interventions, we are able to not only educate others, but protect ourselves most importantly. We need to stay updated on the latest trends surrounding HIV education, HIV testing, trainings, linkage and treatment adherence.”
Awareness
CULT
profess a religious focus, but have potentially dangerous practices and influence. These groups and individuals will often target students, especially new students, Some groups on university campuses
because they are in an unfamiliar environment away from their established friends and family.
These groups are often identified as cult or “high pressure groups” and they operate without recognition or approval from Howard University nor the Office of the Dean of the Chapel. They: - Are often dishonest about their true identity - Aggressively recruit and sometimes harass and agenda. students.
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SOME THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR:
Leader claims divinity or a special relationship with God. Leader desires members to be faithful to him or her. Encourage members to separate from family and friends, especially if they do not share the group’s beliefs. Ask potential members to confess/tell all past sins/mistakes to members of the group.
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Seek to have total control over members’ lives. Want influence in every decision members make. Want members to keep things about the group secret. Desire to diminish members’ sense of self. Exploit members’ finances. Want members to be a part of this group and no/few other groups.
What’s the Harm?
Loss of free will and/or control over your choices. - Loss of long-term friendships and relationships. - Loss of independence and planning for your future.
What Should You Do?
- Only visit Bible Studies, Prayer Groups, and Spiritual Discussions on the APPROVED LIST from the Office of the Dean of the Chapel. (Our goal is to protect you & support your spiritual journey). - If you believe you have seen a group that may be a cult, have a friend being recruited by one, or have been recruited or harassed yourself, contact the Office of the Dean of the Chapel
immediately at 202-806-7280 or chapel@howard.edu.
You have the power to keep our campus safe!
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VARIETY Spring Break Essentials
Across 2. wear to listen to music 4. people to enjoy your time with 5. wear over your eyes in sun 7. a vehicle in which to take a roadtrip 8. use to buy souvenirs on vacation 9. use to protect skin from sun 10. what you wear when you swim Down 1. a frequently visited vacation spot 3. use to pack away your clothes 6. what guys wear when they swim
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MARCH 7, 2016
THE HILLTOP
SPORTS Women's Lacrosse Falls to Radford
PHOTO BY CHERISS MAY
Obama Welcomes Crimson Tide to White House Diandra Bolton HU News Service
PHOTOS COURTESY OF BISON ATHLETICS
HU Bison Athletics RADFORD, VA-- The Howard University Women's Lacrosse team took on the Highlanders of Radford University in the Lady Bison's first road game of the season, but were edged out in a 8-19 deficit handing the Highlander's their first victory in program history at Cupp Stadium in Radford, Virginia.
Sophomore Natia Warren lead the Lady Bison in scoring this afternoon with a total of 3 goals. Red shirt senior Darieal Wimbley netted two goals, and senior Victoria Lockhart, junior Asiyah Frank and freshman Aaliyah Cash netted one goal each. Junior goalkeeper Jasmine Wilson recorded a total of six saves.
Head coach Karli Brentlinger added, "This was our first road game so we got off to a slow start. We have a few things to clean up and fix those first game jitters and just get some experience under us before conference play." Radford, was lead by Freshman Emma Rogers who netted 5 goals and freshman Gracie
Peterson who added an additional four goals. Freshman Juliette Ruland and freshman Avery Reding both added three goals each. Freshman Callie Bonnel added one goal on the evening. "Presbyterian will be a good test for us next week to show what we have learned and how much we've grown after these last two games," added Brentlinger.
WASHINGTON– During the annual celebration of the college national football champion at the White House, President Barack Obama joked Wednesday that he obviously is the reason for the continued and dramatic success of the University of Alabama, the winners of the 2016 college football championship, their fourth in seven years. “Now my first question is, ‘Coach what took you so long?’” Obama said. “It’s been three whole years since I last saw you,. This is the fourth time I have hosted Alabama here at the White House. So clearly I have brought you some good luck. In fact, you could call me ‘O-BAMA.’” Obama also commended
the team for its skill and called coach Nick Saban “somebody who’s in the running to be the greatest football coach of all time.” Saban said he is still appreciative of the experience of winning championships and of visiting the White House. “It never gets old,” he said. “This is a wonderful experience. Not a lot of our players get to experience the District of Columbia, Washington, D.C., the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial. “I think it’s something our players all look forward to. Saban attributed this year’s victory to teamwork. “This team is special in the fact that…. I use the term ‘We won as one,’
everybody sort of holding each other accountable,” he said. “The leadership we had on the team, the adversity we faced losing early, . . . to winning the championship against the very good Clemson team, I think, makes this team really unique from all the rest.” The team presented Obama with a jersey and helmet emblazoned with the number 16, representing the number of national championships the team claims to have won. Officially, the team is recognized by the NCAA as having won 13. The audience was filled with the family and friends of the players as well as the governor of Alabama, Robert Bentley, and some members of the Alabama delegation in Congress.
MEAC Pairings Announced: Bison Men And Women Open Play (Brackets Inside) HU Bison Athletics Norfolk, VA—The Howard University women's and men's teams will go dancing next week when they open play in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference tournament at the Scope in Norfolk, VA. The tournament winners receive an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. The women get started first when
they take on the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, the Number 6 seed on Monday in the first round. The Bison, the Number 11 seed, were swept by the Lady Hawks this season. Howard played UMES tough in Princess Anne, MD despite not having a full squad. Jasmine Hill scored a career-high 27 points and Sydni Johnson had a double double in the 71-69 setback.
In Washington, DC on February 16, Howard had balanced scoring with four players in double figures, led by Imani Bailey's 16 points, but they played without Victoria Gonzales and they had troubles with Ciani Byrom of UMES, who poured in 27 points to lead her team to an easy 79-59 victory.
against Hampton, the Number 2 seed.
The winner will advance to Thursday's quarterfinal round
It was a memorable game for Howard as a James "J-Byrd"
The men will take to the hardwood on Tuesday when they face off with the Eagles of North Carolina Central. The Bison, the 10th seed, defeated NCCU , 71-69 in their only encounter which took place on December 9 in Durham, NC.
Daniel, III floater with six ticks on the clock gave the Bison their first MEAC victory and ended the Eagles' long home winning streak, at that time, second best in the country. The winner will advance to the next round and will take on Norfolk State, the Number 2 seed, on Wednesday. All games will be live streamed on www.meachoops. com.
SPORTS
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MARCH 7, 2016
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Daniel Named MEAC Player Of The Year HU Bison Athletics Norfolk, VA---James "J-Byrd" Daniel, III has been named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference men's player of the year as voted on by the head coaches and the conference sports information directors. He was voted to the All conference first team. "What this young man has done is nothing short of a miracle," said Howard head coach Kevin Nickelberry. "Despite all the injuries we suffered during the season and some of the challenges we have faced, especially over the past five games, he has put us in a position to win. It is a credit to him and he is truly deserving of the award." A 5-11, 165-pound junior from
Hampton, VA, Daniel led the nation and the MEAC in scoring from the beginning of the season. On the season, the talented guard averaged 27.7 points per game. Daniel now holds numerous school records including most points in a career and in a season. He now has amassed 1,873 points during his three-year career, surpassing the old mark of 1,724 points held by Aaron Shingler, set back in 1963-67. He also holds the record for most points in a season (790) and highest season average (27.7) for most points per game. On the season, Daniel scored 30 or more points on nine occasions, including a career-best 39 points in a win over William & Mary.
On the national, level, in addition to his ranking Number 1 in points, Daniel led the nation in free throws attempted (almost 12 per game) and free throws made (almost 9 per game). He also ranked 2nd in field goal attempts, 15th in three-point field goal attempts and 18th in steals per game. The MEAC Rookie of the Year as a freshman, Daniel led the conference in scoring at 21 points per contest. He has already posted six game-winning shots during his career and has led Howard to back-back double digit win seasons for the first time in over a decade. He needs 10 points to reach the 800-point plateau in a season and
PHOTO COURTESY OF BISON ATHLETICS
23 points to reach 1,900 points in a career. "It is certainly an honor to be named the player of the year," said a reserved Daniel. " It is not something that I thought about. The thing is that when you set team goals, eventually the
individual goals will come." Daniel will get a chance to showcase his skills when the Bison open play against North Carolina Central University on Tuesday in the first round of the MEAC Tournament at the Scope in Norfolk, VA.
and had a career high of 33 points vs Mount Saint Mary's and 15 rebounds against Georgia State. She scored in double figures in all 23 games in which she played. Gonzales reached a milestone in her career this season when she became the 17th player in school history to reach the 1,000-point mark in her career. Johnson had her best season, averaging almost 11 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. The 6-1 junior forward from Homewood, IL shot 40 percent from the floor and 71 percent from the free throw line while dishing out 29 assists, recording 36 steals, blocking 9 shots and logging almost 37 minutes, which ranked among the tops in the MEAC. The versatile Johnson found time to record 4 double doubles and had a career-best 23 points against Duquesne. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BISON ATHLETICS
Gonzales Named All-MEAC First Team, Johnson Second HU Bison Athletics Norfolk, VA—Victoria Gonzales has been named to the 2015-16 All-MEAC women's basketball first team and teammate Sydni
Johnson to the second team as announced by the conference head coaches and sports information directors. The 6-1 center from Atlanta, GA capped off a spectacular senior season
by leading the team in scoring with 19.7 points per game and in rebounding at almost 9 per contest. It was her best all-around season
for Gonzales who recorded 24 blocked shots, 32 steals, shot 43 percent from the field, 72 percent from the free throw line and logged 35 minutes per game. Gonzales had 9 double doubles
Gonzales and Johnson will be back in action when the Lady Bison take on the University of Maryland Eastern Shore on Monday in the first round of the MEAC Tournament at the Norfolk Scope. The time will be announced
MARCH 7, 2016 | @THEHILLTOPHU | VOLUME 100 ISSUE 27