April 2019 by The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

™ April 2019

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thepositivecommunity.com

EDUCATION FOCUS YOLANDA ADAMS: MORE THAN MUSIC A.CURTIS FARROW GOSPEL ACCORDING TO FARROW POSITIVEMUSIC

MATTERS ™

DYLAN CHIDICK HIGH SCHOOL SUPER SENIOR ACCEPTED TO 18 COLLEGES

METROPOLITAN COLLEGE OF NEW YORK

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR CAN MAKE THOMAS CHANGED HIS CAREER AND NOW CHANGES THE LIVES OF HIS STUDENTS. After seven years of hard work and success in the corporate world, Thomas felt unfulfilled. His real passion, to become a teacher and a mentor, was always in the back of his mind. Thomas was ready to make a change. With the accelerated degree program at Metropolitan College of New York, he was able to earn a Master’s degree in Education in just one year. For Thomas, MCNY offered a way to gain practical skills and hands-on student teaching experience under the direction of a dedicated and supportive faculty. Now he’s on a fulfilling path as a first-grade teacher, helping give his students the same kind of confidence that he found at MCNY. Get started on YOUR path to becoming a leader in education. The Masters of Science in Education: Dual Childhood 1-6/Special Education offers the TOC II Scholarship benefits, with the TEACH Grant and Presidential Scholarship for up to $15,500 in total tuition assistance for those who qualify.

APPLY TODAY AND START CLASSES THIS SUMMER!

mcny.edu | 212.343.1234 MCNY is a non-profit, accredited, private college designed for working adults.

FEATURED ALUMNI Thomas, MSEd ’17

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APRIL 2019

Cover photo: Raymond Hagans

CONTENTS SECTIONS HEALTH...................................15 MONEY ...................................22 EDUCATION.............................25 CULTURE ................................50

Features

Rangel Leadership Awards Gala ............................... 12 NJ Health Executives Meet & Greet .......................... 15 Encouraging News About Alzheimer’s ....................... 16

Snyder H.S. Principal Yvonne Waller with super senior, Dylan Chidick

ON THE COVER: High school senior Dylan Chidick has been accepted to 18 colleges and universities — including his “dream school” — despite challenges and obstacles.

&also inside Publisher’s Desk .................................. 8

100 Black Men Benefit Gala .................................... 20 HCCI Breaks Ground ................................................ 22 Walk to Washington ................................................. 24 Life After A Spinal Cord Injury ................................... 25 Tabernacle Joins Roll Call! ...................................... 28 The Harlem Miracle ................................................. 32 If Any Man Will ......................................................... 34 Vision for Student Bill of Rights ............................... 46

My View ............................................. 10 Annual Legacy Awards Gala ..................................... 48 The Way Ahead .................................. 56 Gospel According to Farrow ..................................... 50 Gospel Train ....................................... 57 Honoring Deacon Willie R. Burke ............................. 52 The Last Word .................................... 58 More Than Music ..................................................... 54 4

The Positive Community April 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

AnnuAl Alumni/Ae AwArds dinner Honoring tHe work of our President and Librarian

mondAy, mAy 6, 2019, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The Interchurch Center, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10115

C lass R eunions 2014 (5 yeArs)

2009 (10 yeArs) 2004 (15 yeArs)

foR a lumni / ae who gRaduated in yeaRs ending in ‘9 and 1999 (20 yeArs) 1969 (50 yeArs) 1954 (65 yeArs) 1984 (35 yeArs) 1994 (25 yeArs) 1964 (55 1949 (70 yeArs) yeArs ) 1979 (40 yeArs)

1989 (30 yeArs)

1974 (45 yeArs)

1959 (60 yeArs)

‘4

1944 (75 yeArs)

guesT of honor Rev. Dr. Dale T. Irvin

NYTS President and Professor of World Christianity

The Vernon m. dougherTy disTincTion in minisTry AwArd Dr. Jerry Reisig

DMin 2010 Associate Professor of Information Literacy and Director of Library Services, NYTS

The rising Alumni/Ae AwArdee Rev. Dr. Que English

MDiv 2014 and DMin 2017 Co-Pastor, Bronx Christian Fellowship

$100 Donation, Semi-formal attire aDvanceD reServation requireD DeaDline: monDay, april 29, 2019 rSvp via phone or email:

Min. Cynthia Gardner-Brim, Director, Alumni/ae Affairs (212) 870-1244 | cgardnerbrim@nyts.edu

Make Checks Payable To: New York Theological Seminary, ATTN: Alumni/ae Affairs, 475 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10115.

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GREAT GREAT GREAT

OLL OLL

MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! MAKE MAKE THE THE DIFFERENCE! DIFFERENCE!

ALL ALL

TO PROGRESS TO TO PROGRESS PROGRESS

he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at he organizations, churches, community and institutions listed below have committed to of least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each orbusinesses they support publication through purchase of advertising. Find out more he clergy clergy organizations, churches, community businesses andthis institutions listed belowthe have committed to the the purchase purchase of at at least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out more more by by calling calling 973-233-9200 973-233-9200 or or email email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com.

Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Abundant Life Fellowship Supt. Edward Jr.,COGIC, Pastor Abundant LifeBohannon, Fellowship COGIC, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Supt. EdwardB.C., Bohannon, Jr.,NYPastor Pastor Abyssinian Harlem,Jr., Supt. Edward Bohannon, Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. O. III, Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Dr. Calvin Calvin O. Butts Butts III, Pastor Pastor Rev. Barry R.B.C., Miller, Pastor NJ Abyssinian Newark, Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. R. Pastor Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Rev. Barry Barry R. Miller, Miller, Pastor Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor Aenon Baptist Church, Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, Vauxhall, NJ NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Agape Baptist Church, Newark, Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor PastorNJ Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Pastor NJ Agape Agape Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Antioch Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Pastor Pastor Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Antioch Baptist Church, Antioch Baptist Church, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Archdiocese of New York Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Pastor Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Archdiocese Archdiocese of of New New York York Brother Davis, Office BaptistTyrone Ministers Conference Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of of Black Black Ministry Ministry of Greater NY & Vicinity Baptist Ministers Conference Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis, President Baptist Ministers Conference of of Greater Greater NY NY & & Vicinity Vicinity Rev. A. President Berean B.C., Brooklyn, Rev. Dr. Dr. Charles Charles A. Curtis, Curtis,NY President Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Griffin Jr., Bethany Brooklyn, Rev. Arlee ArleeB.C., Griffin Jr., Pastor PastorNY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey,NYSr. Pastor Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. C. Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Sr. Rev. Dr. Dr. Adolphus Adolphus C. Lacey, Lacey, Sr. Pastor Pastor Rev. Timothy E.Newark, Jones, Pastor Bethany B.C., NJ Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. E. Bethlehem B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Timothy TimothyMissionary E. Jones, Jones, Pastor Pastor Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, PastorB.C., Roselle, NJ Bethlehem Missionary Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Pastor Beulah BibleBryan, Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor NJ Beulah Bible Cathedral Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor PastorNJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ NJ Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, Rev. Calvin McKinney, Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor Pastor Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor Calvary Calvary Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Morristown, Morristown, NJ NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Jr., Pastor Pastor Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor Canaan Canaan B. B. C. C. of of Christ, Christ, Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Johnson, Pastor Canaan B.C.,D. Rev. Thomas Thomas D.Paterson, Johnson,NJ Pastor Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor Canaan Canaan B.C., B.C., Paterson, Paterson, NJ NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor Cathedral International., Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor Perth Amboy, NJ Cathedral International., Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor Cathedral International., Perth Perth Amboy, Amboy, NJ NJ Bishop Donald Pastor Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Bishop Donald Hilliard, Hilliard, Pastor Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor Charity Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Bronx, Bronx, NY NY Charity Rev. Pastor Christian LoveWilliams, B.C., Irvington, Rev. Reginald Reginald Williams, Pastor NJ Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, NJ Pastor Christian Christian Love Love B.C., B.C., Irvington, Irvington, NJ Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Pastor Pastor NJ Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Church, Jr., PastorNewark, NJ Clear View Baptist Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Belle, Jr., Community Rev. Curtis Curtis W. W.B.C., Belle,Englewood, Jr., Pastor Pastor NJ Rev. Dr. LesterB.C., Taylor, Pastor NJ Community Englewood, Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Lester Lester Taylor, Taylor, Pastor Pastor

Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Antonio Porter, Pastor Community Community Church Church of of God, God, Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev. Porter, Pastor Concord B.C., Brooklyn, Rev. Antonio Antonio Porter, PastorNY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor Concord Concord B.C., B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Convent Avenue BaptistPastor Church, Rev. Dr. Gary V. New York, NY Simpson, Pastor Convent Avenue Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Convent Avenue Baptist Pastor Church, New New York, York, NY NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor Cross and Crown Christian Church, Rev. Dr. Jesse Orange, NJ T. Willams, Pastor Cross and Crown Christian Rev. Lula Baker, Pastor Cross andA.Crown Christian Church, Church, Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Lula A. Baker, Pastor Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ Rev. Lula A. Baker, Pastor Rev. Preston E. Thompson, Jr., Pastor Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ NJ Rev. E. Jr., Pastor Emmanuel Church, Rev. Preston PrestonBaptist E. Thompson, Thompson, Jr.,Brooklyn, Pastor NY Rev. Anthony Trufant, Pastor Emmanuel Emmanuel Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. Anthony Trufant,Baptist Pastor Convention Empire Missionary Rev. Anthony Trufant, Pastor Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, Jr., Pastor Empire Empire Missionary Missionary Baptist Baptist Convention Convention Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, Pastor Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, Jr., Jr., PastorNJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., Pastor Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, NJ NJ Rev. Campbell, Pastor Fellowship B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Dr. Guy Guy Missionary Campbell, Jr., Jr., Pastor Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder Fellowship Fellowship Missionary Missionary B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. T. Pastor/Founder First Dr. B.C.Elton of Lincoln Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd ByrdGardens, Pastor/Founder Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor First First B.C. B.C. of of Lincoln Lincoln Gardens, Gardens, Somerset Somerset NJ NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor Pastor First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, Rev. Young, FirstPatrick BaptistHenry Church, EastPastor Elmhurst, NY NY Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor First Baptist Church of Teaneck, Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor First First Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Teaneck, Teaneck, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor Pastor Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., Senior Pastor First First Corinthian Corinthian Baptist Baptist Church, Church, NY NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., Senior First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., Senior Pastor Pastor Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor First Park Park Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ First Rev. McClendon, Jr., First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Rufus Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor Pastor Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor First First Baptist Baptist Church, Church, South South Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor Pastor Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President General General Baptist Baptist Convention, Convention, NJ NJ Rev. Lester Taylor, Jr., Good Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Dr.Neighbor Lester W. W.B.C., Taylor, Jr., President President Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor Pastor Rev. Dr.B.Franklyn Richardson, Grace C., Mt. Mt. W. Vernon, NY Pastor Grace B. C., Vernon, NY Rev. Richardson, Greater Zion HillW. B.C., Harlem, Pastor NY Rev. Dr. Dr. Franklyn Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY NY Rev. Dr. J. Harlem Congregations for Pastor Rev. Dr. Frank Frank J. Blackshear, Blackshear, Pastor Community Improvement (HCCI) Harlem Congregations for Malcolm A. Punter, President Harlem Congregations for & CEO Community Community Improvement Improvement (HCCI) (HCCI) Malcolm A. Punter, President & Imani Baptist Church, East Malcolm A. Punter, President Orange, & CEO CEO NJ Rev. William Derek Lee, Senior Pastor NJ Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. William Derek Lee, Pastor It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. William Derek Lee, Senior Senior Pastor Rev. KahlilLiving Carmichael, PastorClark, NJ It Is Well Ministries, It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Rev. Kahlil Kahlil Carmichael, Carmichael, Pastor Pastor

Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor Macedonia Macedonia Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Lakewood, Lakewood, NJ NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor Pastor Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter, Pastor Mariners’ Mariners’ Temple Temple B.C., B.C., New New York, York, NY NY Rev. Carter, Pastor Memorial, B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Dr. Henrietta Henrietta Carter, Pastor Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Memorial, B.C., Senior Pastor Memorial, B.C., New New York, York, NY NY Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, CT Senior Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, Senior Pastor Rev. James Logan,Church, Pastor Messiah Messiah Baptist Baptist Church, Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT CT Rev. James Logan, Messiah Baptist Church, Rev. James Logan, Pastor PastorEast Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens,Church, Pastor Messiah Messiah Baptist Baptist Church, East East Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Metropolitan Metropolitan B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Mount Calvary B.C., Englewood, Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Pastor NJ Rev. Dr. Ed Spencer IV, Senior Pastor Mount Mount Calvary Calvary B.C., B.C., Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Ed Spencer IV, Senior Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, Rev. Dr. Ed Spencer IV, Senior Pastor Pastor NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Mt. Mt. Neboh Neboh Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Dr. Jr., Mt. B.C.,Green Brooklyn, NY Rev.Pisgah Dr. Johnnie Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Pastor Rev. Dr. Johnny Youngblood, Mt. Pisgah Pisgah B.C.,Ray Brooklyn, NY Pastor Mt. B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Mount Olive Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. JohnnyNJRay Youngblood, Pastor Pastor Hackensack, Mount Olive Baptist Church, Rev. Gregory Jackson, Pastor Mount Olive J. Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Mt. B.C, Newark, Pastor NJ Rev.Olivet Gregory J. Jackson, Jackson, Pastor Rev. André B.C, W. Milteer, Pastor Mt. Olivet Newark, Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. André W. Mt. Church,Pastor Trenton, NJ Rev.Zion AndréAME W. Milteer, Milteer, Pastor Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor Mt. Mt. Zion Zion AME AME Church, Church, Trenton, Trenton, NJ NJ Rev. J. Justice, Mt. B.C., Westwood, NJ Rev.Zion J. Stanley Stanley Justice, Pastor Pastor Mt. Zion B.C., Westwood, New Hope Baptist Church,NJ Mt. Zion B.C., Metuchen, NJWestwood, NJ New Hope Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, Metuchen, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, New Hope Baptist Church of Rev. Dr. RonaldHackensack, L. Owens, Pastor Pastor Hackensack, NJ New Hope Baptist Church of Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor New Jerusalem Worship Center, Rev. Dr. Drew Jamaica, NY Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor New Jerusalem Worship Center, Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Senior Center, Pastor New Jerusalem Worship Jamaica, Jamaica, NY NY Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Senior New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice, Senior Pastor PastorNJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, North Selton AMEPastor Church, Rev. Eric Wallace, Piscataway, NJ Pastor North AME Church, Rev. Dr.Selton Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors North Selton AME Church, Piscataway, Piscataway, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Pastors Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Billips, Pastors Rev. JethroB.James, PastorNJ Paradise C., Newark, Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Pastor ParkJethro Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, Rev. James, East Orange, NJ Park Ave Christian Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor of Park Orange, Ave Christian Disciples Disciples of Christ, Christ, East East Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor Rev. Dr. Glenn Pilgrim B. C., C., Wilson, Newark,Pastor NJ Pilgrim B. Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor Pastor

Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor Ruth Ruth Fellowship Fellowship Ministries, Ministries, Plainfield, Plainfield, NJ NJ Rev. Tracey Brown, Shiloh AME Zion Church, Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor Pastor Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor Shiloh Shiloh AME AME Zion Zion Church, Church, Englewood, Englewood, NJ NJ Rev. D. Givens, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Rochelle, Rev. John John D. New Givens, Pastor NY Rev. Dr. Quincy M. Hentz, Pastor Shiloh Shiloh B.C., B.C., New New Rochelle, Rochelle, NY NY Rev. Quincy M. Shiloh Plainfield, Rev. Dr. Dr.B.C., Quincy M. Hentz, Hentz,NJPastor Pastor Rev. Hodari Hamilton, NJ Sr., Senior Pastor Shiloh B.C.,K.Plainfield, Plainfield, Shiloh B.C., NJ Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Hodari K. Hamilton, Sr., Sr., Senior Senior Pastor Pastor Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Pastor St. Anthony Baptist Church, Rev. Darell Armstrong, Armstrong, PastorBrooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor NY St. Anthony Baptist Church, St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Sr., Pastor Pastor Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. James AME Church, Newark, St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Ronald L. St. Baptist Church,Pastor Camden, NJ Rev.John Ronald L. Slaughter, Slaughter, Pastor Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor St. St. John John Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Camden, Camden, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, St. John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor Pastor Rev. Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor St. St. John John B.C., B.C., Scotch Scotch Plains, Plains, NJ NJ Rev. Shawn T. Pastor St. Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev.Luke Shawn T. Wallace, Wallace, Pastor Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St. St. Luke Luke Baptist Baptist Church Church of of Harlem, Harlem, NY NY Rev. Dr. McCann, Pastor St B.C., Paterson, Rev.Luke Dr. Johnnie Johnnie McCann,NJ Pastor Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St St Luke Luke B.C., B.C., Paterson, Paterson, NJ NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Clayton, Pastor St. Mark Missionary B.C.,Pastor Jamaica, NY Rev. Kenneth D.R. Rev. OwenMissionary E. Williams,B.C., Pastor St. Mark St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, Jamaica, NY NY Rev. Owen Pastor St. AME Church, Rev.Matthew Owen E. E. Williams, Williams, PastorOrange, NJ Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, Pastor St. St. Matthew Matthew AME AME Church, Church, Orange, Orange, NJ NJ Rev. Melvin E. Pastor St. Montclair, Rev.Paul’s MelvinB.C., E. Wilson, Wilson, PastorNJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor St. St. Paul’s Paul’s B.C., B.C., Montclair, Montclair, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Glover, Pastor St. Baptist Church, Bank, NJ Rev.Paul Dr. Bernadette Bernadette Glover,Red Pastor Rev. Alexander Brown, Pastor St. Paul Paul Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Red Red Bank, Bank, NJ NJ St. Rev. Alexander Brown, Pastor St. Community Brooklyn, NY Rev.Paul Alexander Brown,B.C., Pastor Rev. David K. Brawley,B.C., Pastor St. St. Paul Paul Community Community B.C., Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor Pastor NJ Rev. Dr. Richard W. Jones, Pastor Tabernacle Tabernacle B.C., B.C., Burlington, Burlington, NJ NJ Rev. Dr. Jones, Pastor The Hope W. B.C., Newark, Rev. New Dr. Richard Richard W. Jones, PastorNJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor The The New New Hope Hope B.C., B.C., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Carter, Senior Union Baptist Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Joe Joe Carter,Temple,, Senior Pastor Pastor Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Union Baptist Temple,,Pastor Bridgeton, NJ NJ Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Pastor Park, NJ United United Fellowship Fellowship B.C., B.C., Asbury Asbury Park, NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Sr., PastorNY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Pastor Rev. Dr. Elijah C. Williams, Pastor Welcome Welcome Baptist Baptist Church, Church, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Rev. Elijah Williams, Pastor World Assoc., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Dr.Gospel Elijah C. C.Music Williams, Pastor Dr. Albert Lewis,Music Founder World World Gospel Gospel Music Assoc., Assoc., Newark, Newark, NJ NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder Founder

“The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Black Church. All churches The Positive Community . Please support this magazine, the only one and businesses should subscribe todoes and outstanding advertise in work The Positive Community magazine in promoting the good works of Black Church. All ““that The Positive magazine outstanding work inBuster promoting the goodBaptist worksRevival, of the the May Black Church. All churches churches Rev. Soaries, General 20, 2010 featuresCommunity good newssubscribe about thetodoes black community.”— The Positive Community . Please support this magazine, and businesses should and advertise in the only only one one and businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Positive Community. Please support this magazine, the that Rev. Buster Buster Soaries, Soaries, General General Baptist Baptist Revival, Revival, May May 20, 20, 2010 2010 that features features good good news news about about the the black black community.”— community.”—Rev.

ADRIAN COUNCIL PUBLISHER’S DESK

THE GREAT CULTURAL NARRATIVE:

UNDERSTANDING ORIGINS AND DESTINIES!

elcome to our annual Spring Education Issue. Shout-out to our readers, Roll Call member churches (page 7) and our advertisers—community partners for progress. The business or institution that advertises in this publication is desirous of a real and mutually beneficial relationship between their businesses and our community of consumers. We ask that you give The Positive Community advertiser your upmost consideration when making your next purchase or investment. We especially welcome our newest advertisers: State University of New York College at Old Westbury, Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, NJ, College of St. Elizabeth, Morristown, NJ, and The Harlem Children’s Zone. In December of 1999, in association with the Baptist Minister’s Conference of Greater N Y & Vicinity, a prototype of The Positive Community magazine was born. A newsletter called Positive Community News. In August 2000, The Positive Community Corporation was founded. Editor Jean Nash Wells and I published the first monthly issue in September of that year. Only through God’s grace and mercy, perseverance, persistence, teamwork, and dogged determination, we are currently celebrating TPC’s twentieth anniversary! Origins

Another important date is January 1. It is perhaps the single most important date on the American calendar, especially for African Americans. On January 1, 1863, New Years Day, the Emancipation Proclamation, an Executive Order, was signed by President Abraham Lincoln. With the stroke of a pen, slavery was over for 3.5 million people of African descent in the Confederate southern states. On that day, the Civil War went from being a war to save the Union, to a war to end slavery. Over 200,000 Negro troops were mobilized to fight on the side of the Union Army. The war to end slavery, cost over 700,000 American lives and double the amount in casualties. Two years later, in 1865, the 13th Amendment was ratified by both houses of congress, forever abolishing slavery in the United States of America. Below is an excerpt from Doris Goodwin’s bestseller, Leadership in Turbulent Times (2018) about that fateful moment: The signing took place in a simple ceremony attended by only a dozen people, including Secretary of State Steward and his son, Fred. As the parchment was placed before the president , Fred Stew-

The Positive Community April 2019

ard recalled, Lincoln “ dipped his pen in the ink, and then, holding it for a moment above the sheet, seemed to hesitate,” but then began to speak in a forceful manner, “I never, in my life felt more certain that I was doing right, than I do in signing this paper,” Lincoln said “ If my name ever goes down in history it will be for this act, and my whole soul is in it.”… Rutgers University Distinguished Professor of History, the late Clement A. Price would refer to this event from the American Negro perspective as The Great Emancipation. Just as God’s mighty Hand was on Pharaoh in the Exodus of the Hebrew slaves from Egypt, so too was the powerful Hand of God on the United States President in the African American Exodus —Let My People Go! Destinies

Indeed, a great many of us today are descendants of The Great Emancipation—1863. Should not January 1st, and every January 1st be celebrated as Freedom Day/Emancipation Day among the African American people of the United States? January 1, 1863 is where the people’s freedom journey as citizens of the USA begins. The Great Cultural Narrative is a positive, life affirming message for our times! The Cultural Narrative is a story about origins and destinies. Access the truth today; know your own history; envision a healthy, prosperous and wholesome future for our descendants—generations yet unborn. Own and frame this beautiful and enlightening 19x25 inch poster today. And proudly share your story with the world! Harold Cruse, author of the epic, research, analysis and critique on black life in America, Crisis of the Negro Intellectual (1968) ended the last paragraph of his book with this final admonition: …The farther away the Negro gets from his historic antecedents in time, the more tenuous become his conceptual ties, the emptier his social conceptions, the more superficial his visions. His one great and present hope is to know his Afro-American history in the United States more profoundly. Failing that, and failing to create a new synthesis and social theory of action, he will suffer the historical fate described by the philosopher who warned that “Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it.” www.thepositivecommunity.com

Our American Story IN CLASSIC BLACK

R E A D I T, S P E A K I T, T E A C H I T, O W N I T

T O D AY !

The Great African American Cultural Narrative

The African American Cultural Narrative

frican Americans are a unique people with a peculiar history in this land. Brought to these shores in chains from Africa in the early 1600s, our people toiled and suffered as captives in brutal bondage for a quarter of a millennium (250 years). On January 1, 1863, two years into the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, signed by President Abraham Lincoln, became law, signaling an end to slavery. On that day, the African American community of the United States of America was born. One hundred years later, in August, 1963 at the height of the Civil Rights Movement, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stood in front of the Lincoln Memorial, as he led hundreds of thousands to a March on Washington, seeking an end to discrimination and 90 years of Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was a demand for full and equal citizen’s rights for the people in what has been called “the Second Emancipation.” Forty years after Martin Luther King’s tragic assassination in 1968, America elects its first black president, the Honorable Barack Obama (2008). In the 100 years between the first and second emancipation, in the midst of bitter persecution, humiliation, lynching; enduring the denial of basic human rights, the resiliency of the African American spirit continued to shine brightly in religion, business, education, medicine, invention, sports, and in the creative arts—music, fashion, dance, language, literature, and theater. Indeed, original American art forms and a popular culture which has become the envy of the world were founded upon the souls of a forlorn people! And that is our story—the Truth, Beauty and Goodness of a loving and gifted race—revealed!

An Extraordinary History Ours is an extraordinary history of trial, tribulation, and triumph that we must never, ever forget! This is the very story we must tell our children and ever be remembered for all future generations. We the people, descendants of the Great Emancipation must tell our story and sing our greatest songs to each other and to the entire world! We must remind ourselves over and over again of the noble struggle, human dignity, sacrifices and wisdom of our torch-bearing forefathers; of our goodly heritage, our divine inheritance; our great music legacy—Positive Music Matters! This is our story—the cultural narrative— a new language of freedom; a springboard toward a great and prosperous future; a spiritually enlightened ideal. A vision of hope, opportunity, and progress; liberty and happiness; health and wholeness—peace and goodwill! WE’VE COME THIS FAR BY FAITH…! —Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Teach the Truth! Teach the children their American story in just 281 words! . . . And may they commit this very narrative to memory,and pass it along. Affirm the positive—our claim on the American Dream! Own this beautiful 25x19 poster with a rich, majestic, presidential blue background color in large print; which includes images of two American presidents, alongside images of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, poet Maya Angolu and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Frame this poster and proudly display it on the walls of your home, office, places of business; in the classrooms and your houses of worship; in barbershops, beauty salons and restaurants. Your $10.00 investment will pay dividends one thousand fold when you teach it to a young child and in return, they speak it back to you. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!

Order your copy today for only $10.00; 2 for $15.00. Become a valued contributor to The Story about Our Future—today! Special Rates for Bulk Purchases. Include $7.60 for priority shipping and handling. Tax included. Send Check or money order to: The Positive Community Corporation, 133 Glenridge Ave., Montclair, NJ 07042 PayPal and Credit Card accepted Order by phone 973 233 9200

Order online: www.thepositivecommunity.com

REV. THERESA NANCE MY VIEW

Rev. Nance is pastor of The Church by the Side of the Road in Passaic, NJ. She is also a radio talk show host and documentary filmmaker.

Forty Years Helping to Build a Better Future in Paterson Nutter is definitely deserving of recognition and thanks for shepherding so many young people through programs with the power to change their lives.

Harvey Nutter

arvey Nutter has been responsible for making life a whole lot better for many people living in the Paterson community. For the past 40 years, Nutter has sat at the helm of the Greater Paterson Opportunities Industrialization Center, Inc. Since graduating from college in 1978, Nutter has been a part of the community-based organization founded in Philadelphia back in 1966, by the late Rev. Dr. Leon Smith. It was like pulling teeth, but he finally acquiesced and allowed some of us a chance to say, “Thank you.” The history of the Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) came about because of the 1960s riots in Philadelphia. When the smoke cleared, Dr. Sullivan realized that even if members of mainstream society wanted to offer “brothers” and “sisters” jobs, they were ill-equipped to navigate the white-color jobs. Hence, that is when the OIC was born. It expanded from Philadelphia throughout the width and depth of the Garden State into New York City, and now boasts 34 affiliates across America. Nutter is an unassuming man who doesn’t draw much attention to himself. His ideas are vast and expansive.

The Positive Community April 2019

Too often in the past, he has been held back on some of the bigger things he has wanted to do for the agency, yet he still brought the program into the 21st century as executive director. Some former participants of the training program have gone from welfare or public assistance roles straight into college. It’s a dream they couldn’t have imagined when they first entered the program—scared, unsure of themselves, and full of doubts. I expect many to show up that morning to give honor where honor is due. And despite his humility, Nutter is definitely deserving of recognition and thanks for shepherding so many young people through programs with the power to change their lives. Of course, there are those who did nothing with the training they received. Then again, that’s not Nutter’s fault, but those who failed to take advantage of what was offered to them. For those who chose to apply themselves and put the knowledge and skills they learned to good use, it not only made a difference in their lives, but also in the lives of their children and communities. Success stories include welders and people with Microsoft Office Certification, just to name a few. I thank Mr. Nutter for taking the opportunity to give opportunities to some of the people who need them the most. He and the OIC are shining examples of how opportunity and focus can result in the ripple effect of success, even in places where they’re least expected. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Celebrating Life With Dignity And Honor

The White House on the Hill Samuel C. Arnold Manager, NJ Lic. No. 3180

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serve with honor. ACCePt the honor.

Are you ready to Accept The Honor and become a New Jersey State Trooper? The New Jersey State Police will be accepting applications for the position of State Trooper from April 29 thru May 12, 2019. Everyone interested in wearing the uniform must learn the REQUIREMENTS and begin their personal physical training NOW!

Share with a friend you think would make a great New Jersey State Trooper, too!

In order to properly prepare for this phase, your personal training should begin TODAY to get in shape to pass the Physical Qualification Test. Keep checking back on our website for updates on the next step in our selection process. Please visit:

www.njsp.org/recruiting Save the date: April 29, 2019 and complete the application. Serve with Honor. Accept The Honor. Become a New Jersey State Trooper! www.thepositivecommunity.com

April 2019 The Positive Community

L–R: 125th Street BID Pres/CEO Barbara Askins; Hon. Inez E. Dickens; and Ross Jacobs, partner, Cogswell Realty

L–R: Ken Knuckles, Hon. Inez E. Dickens, GHCC Pres. and CEO Lloyd Williams, and Harlem Business Alliance Chair Walter J. Edwards Photos: Bruce Moore

Hon. Charles B. Rangel Leadership Awards Dinner

L-R: Ms. Dickens; Abyssinnian B.C. Senior Pastor Rev. Calvin O. Butts, III; and Hon. Charles E. Rangel

125th Street BID Pres. and CEO Barbara Askins; Hon. Keith Wright, director of Government Relations at DHC; and host Hon. Inez E. Dickens

ssemblymember Inez E. Dickens hosted the Hon. Charles B. Rangel Leadership Awards dinner on January 31, 2019 at MIST Harlem in Harlem, NY. Leadership Awards honorees: Barbara Askins,

L–R: John Catsimatidis, Red Apple Group; Hon. Charles B. Rangel; and U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat

125th Street BID; Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III, Abyssinian Baptist Church; John Catsimatidis. Red Apple Group; Maria Cruz, ARCO Management; and Lloyd Williams, Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce.

Daughters of the Movement The International Center of Photography

D L–R: Tanya Selvaratnam, moderator; Stacy Lynch, daughter of Bill Lynch; Dominique Sharpton, daughter of Rev. Al Sharpton; Julie Belafonte, mother of Gina Belafonte; Gina Belafonte, daughter of Harry Belafonte and Julie Belafonte; Suzanne Kay, daughter of Diahann Carroll; Keisha Sutton-James, grand-daughter of Percy Sutton, and Hasna Muhammad, daughter of Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee

The Positive Community April 2019

Photo: Risasi Dais

ialogue with women who sat at the feet of those on the front lines of the civil rights movement. They carry the oral history, cultural values, and wisdom passed down to them by revolutionary leaders who turned the tide of American history. The event was held in conjunction with the current photographic exhibition “For Freedom” which runs until April 28, 2019. www.thepositivecommunity.com

Celebrates

Minority Health Month

Be sure to check out Our NEW Website

African Americans are twice as likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. For 13 years, Rutgers UniversityNewark has worked with community partners to reduce Alzheimer’s disease in African Americans.

For a FREE pamphlet on how to reduce your risk for Alzheimer’s disease; to request a complimentary brain health awareness event at your church or senior center; or to learn how you can help fight Alzheimer’s disease as a paid participant in our studies of healthy aging, please

Call: (973) 353-3673 Email: memory@rutgers.edu

Aging & Brain Health Alliance www.brainhealth.rutgers.edu

thepositivecommunity network.com

Opening

May 1st

Taking care of your family– that’s being good at life. T: 11

S: 10.5

B: 11.25

Contact me to learn more about securing your family’s financial future. CA/AR Insurance Lic # (if applicable) Susie Sulmers-Fryer, Agent New York Life Insurance Company 379 Thornall Street Edison, NJ 08837 SMRU1710429 (Exp.07/30/2020) Mobile: 973-309-0261 ©2018 New York Life Insurance Company, Email ssulmersfrye@ft.newyorklife.com 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

Insure. Prepare. Retire.

The Positive Community April 2019 S: 8 T: 8.5 B: 8.75

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Health ideas for wellness

Health Executives Meet in Newark

RWJBarnabas co-workers: L-R: Chase Stuart, Byron Smith, Louis Alerte and Wendell Alexis; Mount Sinai Health System Rep. Kaylyn Kendall Dines; Ilani Paige-Waldon, RWJBarnabas Health; Tamara Beauvil, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center; and Ashli Clarke, RWJBarnabas Health Photos: Raymond Hagans

ational Association of Health Services Executives (NAHSE) chapters are dedicated to the enrichment of minority healthcare professionals. NAHSE New Jersey (NAHSE NJ), which became the 29th chapter in March 2017, held a networking mixer in Newark last month. The New Jersey Medical Association was a co-sponsor of the event. Founded in 1968, NAHSE is a non-profit association that was established to promote the advancement and development of black healthcare leaders and elevate the quality of healthcare services rendered to medically underserved communities. For more information, visit nahsenj.org L–R: Holy Name Medical Center Dir. of Marketing Moses Salami; Atlantic Health System Coordinator Nadia Moses; RWJBarnabas Health employees: Marco Mimbela, Chase Stuart, Atiya Jaha Rashidi, and Louis Alerte

L–R: RWJBarnabas Health Cardiovascular Dir. Leroy Francis and Chaplain Jerrold Smith, Jr., M.Div., BCC

Members of The Black Professionals Network and NAHSE New Jersey www.thepositivecommunity.com

Event guests connect in conversation April 2019 The Positive Community

Encouraging News about Alzheimer’s Disease L–R: Mark A. Gluck, PhD. with Assistant Chancellor Diane Hill, Ph.D. at Rutgers University–Newark

By changing your habits and lifestyle, you have the power to cut your risk in half

BY MARK A. GLUCK, PHD. PROFESSOR OF NEUROSCIENCE, RUTGERS UNIVERSITY-NEWARK

es, there really is positive and encouraging news about the fight against Alzheimer’s disease: By changing your habits and lifestyle, you have the power to cut your risk for Alzheimer’s disease in half. This is especially important for African Americans, who have over twice the rate of Alzheimer’s disease as compared to most of the population. You can start today to reduce your risk by making six changes to your habits and lifestyle. 1. Exercise Regularly Exercise improves memory, mood, and general brain function. It reduces stress, improves sleep, lowers risk for stroke, manages your blood sugar, and increases blood flow to the brain: all of which improve memory. The more fit you are, the lower your chance of getting Alzheimer’s disease. Here are some exercise tips: • Walk for half an hour or more each day. 10,000 steps a day is a great goal. • Get 2 ½ hours a week of cardio-fitness exercise. 2. Challenge Your Brain Your brain is like a muscle: Use it or lose it! Your brain can actually shrink from lack of use. People who stay mentally active have lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease. Here are some suggestions: • Learn a new skill, or a new language. • If you play a musical instrument, keep practicing. • Read challenging books about topics that are new to you. • Keep your mind sharp doing crossword puzzles and attending lectures.

The Positive Community April 2019

3. Manage Stress Experiencing moderate stress can sometimes be helpful for completing tasks that require speed, focus, and alertness. However, when you are very stressed, your brain struggles to retain newly learned information. Warning: Being regularly and repeatedly stressed will damage memory cells in your brain and increase your risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Here are some stress-reduction habits you could incorporate. • Combat stress through regular exercise and better sleep. • Stress reduction methods such as yoga and mindfulness classes can teach you to better manage stress.

Mark A. Gluck is a Professor of Neuroscience and Public Health at Rutgers University–Newark and Director of the Rutgers Aging & Brain Health Alliance. He has a B.A. from Harvard University and a PhD from Stanford University. His best-selling undergraduate textbook, Learning and Memory: From Brain to Behavior, is going into its 4th edition, and has been translated into Korean, Spanish, and German. In 1996, Gluck was awarded an NSF Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers by President Bill Clinton. He has published over 130 peer-reviewed journal articles and is the Principle Investigator on four current research grants to study aging and Alzheimer’s disease in African Americans, including a new five-year $3.4 million dollar award from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Gluck can be reached via email at gluck@rutgers.edu. Learn more about his research lab online at www.gluck.edu and about the Rutgers Aging & Brain Health Alliance at www.brainhealth.rutgers.edu. www.thepositivecommunity.com

4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep Quality sleep is essential for retaining newly learned skills and memories. In contrast, poor sleep can lead to an impaired ability to manage stress. Even taking a short nap can improve memory retention. Disrupted sleep, or too little sleep, puts you at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease and memory impairments. These are some good sleeping habits:

6. Eat Light and Healthy Try to maintain a healthy weight for your age and height, lose weight if you are overweight or obese; obesity doubles your risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Try to reduce unnecessary, added sugar: it is toxic for the brain. You should especially avoid high fructose corn syrup additives. Read food labels! Eat brain and heart-healthy foods like:

• Keep to a regular bedtime. • Sleep at least 7 1/2 hours a night. • Keep your room totally dark and cool. • No phone or computer screens in the bedroom. • Avoid alcohol and caffeine in the afternoon or evening.

• Dark fruits: blueberries and prunes; • Vegetables: broccoli and spinach; • Cold water fish: tuna and salmon; • Nuts: almonds, walnuts, and pecans; • Beans are a good source of protein and an alternative to meat.

5. Socialize with Others Socializing improves memory, probably because of the benefits from human interaction and intellectual stimulation. On the other hand, being socially isolated increases your risk for Alzheimer’s disease. • Even if you live alone, you can have a rich social life: friendship is key to brain health! • Talking regularly with friends and family keeps your mind active and preserves memories. • Partner dancing is good way to both socialize and exercise at the same time.

Pay It Forward! Become a paid participant in research studies on aging and brain health at Rutgers University-Newark: Do you take one or more pills for your health? Have you ever had a medical procedure that helped you return to health (or maybe even saved your life)? If so, you have benefited from other people who previously participated in biomedical research that led to these treatments and cures. Participating in biomedical research is not about helping yourself, it is about helping future generations. Now is your chance to Pay it Forward! To learn more, see www.brainhealth.rutgers.edu or contact the Aging & Brain Health Alliance at Rutgers University-Newark by calling (973) 353-3673, or by email at memory@rutgers.edu.

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April 2019 The Positive Community

Full-time college students riding NJ TRANSIT bus, rail or light rail to class: • Save 25% on already discounted monthly passes • Avoid the hassle of traffic • Forget the parking problem

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The Positive Community April 2019

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The Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness Invites your Preschool/School to come out And participate in the City’s 2019 Annual Immunization Awareness Day Wednesday, May 1, 2019 10 A.M.— 12 P.M. The Leaguers, Inc. Head Start/ Early Head Start 405-425 University Avenue, Blue room Newark, New Jersey 07102

FOR MORE INFORMATON PLEASE CALL IMMUNIZATION/PROJECT VACCINATE CALL-973-733-7580 FAX-424-4246

A Night to Remember One Hundred Black Men (OHBM) 39th Annual Benefit Gala, February 21, 2019, Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel Honorees: The Madison Square Garden Company (Corporate Diversity Honoree); Mount Sinai Health System (Corporate Health Partners); Nilka Thomas, VP of Diversity and Inclusion for LYFT; Andre Branch, SVP Global Digital Communications for L'Oreal; Benjamin Tucker, deputy commissioner NYPD; and Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

EmblemHealth Pres/CEO Karen Ignagni with VP/ Senior Advisor George Hulse L–R: U.S. Representative Hakeem Jeffries and OHBM President Michael Gardner Photos: Seitu Oronde and Bruce Moore

L-R: OHBM VP Aldrin K. Enis; Dr. Eric J. Nestler, Mount Sinai Hospital; and OHBM Pres. Michael Gardner

L–R: NYS NAACP President Hazel Dukes, George Hulse, Rev. Dr. Jacque DeGraff, U.S. Representative Adriano Espillat, and NAACP Mid-Manhattan Branch President Geoffrey E. Eaton

L–R: Rev. Dr. Jacques DeGraff associate pastor, Canaan B.C. and president, Friends of Harlem Hospital; NYUL Pres/CEO Arva Rice, Lady Brittany and Rev. Reginald Lee Bachus, associate pastor, Abyssinian B.C.

WHAT’S NEW

at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey NEWARK BETH ISRAEL MEDICAL CENTER IS ALWAYS IMPROVING TO SERVE PATIENTS BETTER. NEW DENTAL CENTER On November 14, a dedication was held to celebrate the renaming of the Dental Health Center at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (NBI) in honor of Noah Chivian, DDS, endodontist and former director of endodontics at NBI, and his father, Jacob Chivian, DDS. The new Chivian Dental Health Center was made possible by the generosity of Noah’s sister, Simona Chivian Chazen, and her husband Jerome Chazen. The Dental Center sees close to 20,000 patients a year. It is New Jersey’s largest hospital-based dental program, providing a full range of services for adults and children in the greater Newark region.

MRI BREAST IMAGING AT NBI

MULTIDISCIPLINARY CATHETERIZATION AT NBI

This year, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center will begin using a new state-ofthe-art MRI machine. The SIGNA Artist is General Electric’s most advanced intuitive technology to date. In addition to the standard imaging performed at NBI—cardiac imaging, vascular imaging, brain imaging and fetal MRI—this new technology will allow physicians to perform breast imaging via MRI. According to the American Cancer Society, MRI screening is recommended for certain women at high risk for breast cancer.

Multidisciplinary catheterization suites are coming to NBI. The hospital is planning to expand its current Cardiovascular Catheterization Laboratory (cath lab) to include multidisciplinary procedure rooms that will allow surgeons and cardiologists to work together to perform innovative minimally invasive procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement and mitral and pulmonic valve replacement and repair. Currently, approximately 30 patients per day undergo minimally invasive procedures in NBI’s cath lab.

2022181291 The Positive Community April 2019 NBI Positive Community Advertorial 7x4.75 M1.indd

www.thepositivecommunity.com 4/15/19 3:21 PM

Your family has Your Yourfamily familyhas has no history of Your family has no nohistory historyofof no history of breast cancer. breast breastcancer. cancer. breast cancer. You still need You Youstill stillneed needaaa You still need a mammogram. mammogram. mammogram. mammogram. It’s curious how healthy habits can It’s It’s curious curious howhow healthy healthy habits habits cancan become go-to excuses. But don’t excuse become go-to go-to excuses. excuses. But But don’t don’t excuse excuse It’s become curious how healthy habits can yourself from getting a mammogram. At yourself yourself from from getting getting a mammogram. aBut mammogram. At At become go-to excuses. don’t excuse RWJBarnabas Health, we offer the latest RWJBarnabas RWJBarnabas Health, Health, we we offer offer thethe latest latest yourself from getting a mammogram. At in comprehensive breast health services in comprehensive in comprehensive breast breast health health services RWJBarnabas Health, we offer theservices latest including mammograms, 3D, genetic testing, including including mammograms, mammograms, 3D, genetic genetic testing, testing, in comprehensive breast3D, health services breast surgery and more — like peace breast breast surgery surgery andand more more —3D, like —genetic like peace peace including mammograms, testing, of mind. And with breast health centers of mind. of mind. AndAnd with with breast breast health centers breast surgery and more —health likecenters peace conveniently located throughout New conveniently conveniently located throughout throughout New of mind. Andlocated with breast health New centers

Jersey, nding usisus issimple, simple, too. Jersey, Jersey, fifinding finding us is throughout simple, too. too. New conveniently located Jersey, finding us is simple, too. Making excuses easy. Making anan Making Making excuses excuses isiseasy. is easy. Making Making an appointment easier. Schedule your visit appointment appointment isiseasier. is Schedule Schedule your your visit visit Making excuses is easier. easy. Making an to the TheThe Healthcare Foundation New to the to the The Healthcare Healthcare Foundation ofofNew of New appointment is easier.Foundation Schedule your visit Jersey Breast Health Center Newark Beth Jersey Jersey Breast Breast Health Health Center Center atatNewark at Newark Beth Beth to the The Healthcare Foundation of New Israel Medical Center atrwjbh.org/mammo rwjbh.org/mammo Israel Israel Medical Medical Center Center at at rwjbh.org/mammo Jersey Breast Health Center at Newark Beth or call 973-926-7466. or call or call 973-926-7466. 973-926-7466. Israel Medical Center at rwjbh.org/mammo or call 973-926-7466.

Let’s Let’s beat beat breast breast cancer cancer together. together. Let’s beat breast cancer together. Let’s beat breast cancer together.

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April 2019 The Positive Community

M Money

buiness, ﬁnance + work

HCCI Groundbreaking

he New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and NY C Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) joined Camber Property Group and Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement, Inc. (HCCI) to break ground on Victory Plaza, a 136-unit building that will include affordable housing for formerly homeless seniors in Harlem, February 27, 2019.

L–R: Shana Harmongoff, District Office Director, Office of Senator Brian Benjamin; Malcolm A. Punter, Pres. and CEO, HCCI; and Minah Whyte, Community and Constituent Liaison, Office of Assemblyman Al Taylor

Leon Ellis Faith & Love Fuel His Vision

L–R: Rev. Dr. J. Loren Russell, Goodwill B.C., Bronx, NY; Rev. Dr. John L. Scott, St. John B.C., Harlem,; Rev. Shepherd Lee, Sr., Baptist Temple Church, NYC; Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins Jr.; (seated) HCCI Board Chair Rev. Joan O. Dawson, Ph.D.; Rev. Wendy J. KellyCarter, Mt. Olivet B.C., Harlem; Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis, Mt. Olivet B.C., Harlem, and Min. Lester Robinson, Bethel Gospel Assembly, NYC.

By Glenda Cadogan

L–R: Rev. John L. Scott, E.D., HCCI Board Member; Richard Froehlich, EVP and COO, NYC Housing Development Corp.; Elizabeth Oakley, Sr. VP Community Lending Wells Fargo; Molly Park – Deputy Commission for Development, NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development; Malcolm A. Punter, pres. and CEO HCCI; Joan O. Dawson, Ph.D, chairperson HCCI; Rev. Charles A. Curtis, E.D., chairman emeritus, HCCI; Rick Gropper, partner, Camber Property Group; and UAG President Andy D’Amico thepositivecommunity.com Summer 2017 The Positive Community 17

The Positive Community April 2019

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Photos: Risasi Dais

State of the City

Mayor Ras J. Baraka and his wife the former Linda Jumah

ayor Ras J. Baraka presented his fifth annual State of the City Address on March 12, 2019 in the Victoria Theater at New Jersey Performing Arts Center. In his address, Mayor Baraka focused on education, equitable growth, reducing income inequality, and ensuring that all Newark residents build prosperity, safe neighborhoods and benefit from the city’s surge in investment and development. To See the full State of the City speech go to: www.thepositivecommunity.com

Rev. Shawn T. Wallace Sr., First Pastoral Anniversary St. John’s B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ

Photos: Karen Waters

L–R: Bishop LaVaughn Hughes, Sr., First Lady Felecia Hughes, with First Lady Carita and Pastor Shawn T. Wallace, Sr.

n Sunday March 24,2019 The Positive Community’s Cultural Narrative Church Tour came to St. John’s Baptist Church in Scotch Plains NJ to bring greetings to Pastor Shawn Wallace on the occasion of his one year pastoral anniversary. Bishop LaVaugn Hughes Sr. of Temple No. 2, Original Free Will Baptist Church in Capital Heights, MD. delivered the keynote address. www.thepositivecommunity.com

TPC Publisher Adrian Council, Sr. presenting the Cultural Narrative April 2019 The Positive Community

Walk to Washington Super Networking on an Amtrak Train

alk to Washington, the annual train-trek to the nation's capital, took to the rails on February 28th from Penn Station, Newark. The event attracts New Jersey business leaders in every industry and political leaders at every level of government, giving guests unprecedented opportunities for conversation, visibility, and business networking. Prior to boarding the chartered Amtrak train, guests are treated to a sumptuous breakfast at the Gateway Hotel, sponsored by Verizon Inc. The train then makes stops in Iselin, New Brunswick, Trenton, Philadelphia, and Wilmington before heading into Washington, DC. Participants spend the evening at a grand reception and at the Congressional Dinner at the Marriott Wardman. The networking continues the next morning with a reporters’ roundtable breakfast, followed by the charter train's return trip to New Jersey, bringing guests back to their point of origin. “The Walk features the kind of super-networking that helps businesses grow,” said Tom Bracken, president and CEO of the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. “That is why we have been doing it for 82 years. It is New Jersey's biggest business event of the year.”

Vice President, State Government Affairs Anthony A Lewis, Verizon Inc.

L–R: US Rep. Ron Rice, Deputy Chief Policy Advisor to Murphy Administration Tai Cooper, and Director of External Affairs Verizon NJ, Inc. Jennifer Young Photos: Raymond Hagans

L–R: Danny Dunn, Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp, Hon. Lester Taylor

L–R: Jaffe Communications Principal Bruno Tedeschi; Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo; and Newark Councilman Anibal Ramos, Jr.

NJ State Senator Ron Rice, former Verizon CEO Dennis Bone, and Anthony Lewis

The Positive Community April 2019

NJ Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez and her husband, Samuel Delgado www.thepositivecommunity.com

Education the art + science of learning

BY GARY GREEN

Moving Forward 15 Years After A Spinal Cord Injury

t’s hard to believe or accept that I’ve been paralyzed for 15 years. I was 18 when I suffered a spinal cord injury during the second game of my freshman collegiate football career. I’m 33 years old now and back in school with the goal of finishing what I started. I should have finished school years ago, but I was not ready or willing to accept my new reality. About two years ago, I was listening to Eric Thomas, a motivational speaker. It took him 12 years to get a four- year degree. “The good thing about getting your degree is that it doesn’t say on the degree how long it takes to get it and whether it takes 20 years to get a degree or four years, the only thing that matters is that you got it,” he said. Those words stuck with me and inspired me to finish school. I am a sophomore at Montclair State University, currently majoring in psychology. I might change to either sociology or nutrition once I finish my prerequisites.

Sixteen years later, I reflect on my life and ask myself how I’ve coped with the challenges and obstacles of being a quadriplegic man. Even though my injury was an accident, in my mind I felt like I could have prevented it and I was extremely angry. I think the hardest thing I face on a daily basis is not ever knowing my true potential as a human being. After the injury my goals, dreams, visions, and aspirations for life changed. I became pessimistic; I let my circumstances dictate my attitude. If I handled the challenges and obstacles one faces when having a spinal cord injury (SCI) with a more positive attitude, who knows where I would be or what opportunities I might have had? It has taken me years to realize even though I lost control of my body/bodily functions, I have total control of my attitude. I let my negative attitude affect my aspirations for life. Keeping a positive attitude is just as important as physical/occupational therapy when it comes to the healing/recovery process.

There are a few things I hope able-bodied people would understand about people with an SCI:

• Don’t pity someone with an SCI; instead ask questions if you truly want to know what happened to them. • A simple “Hi” can do so much for someone who feels like an outcast because of his or her injury. • Don’t treat or talk to someone with an SCI as if they are mentally incompetent. Many people with SCI

are physically limited, not mentally limited. Don’t be condescending. Able-bodied or not, talk and treat others the way you would want to be treated if you were in their shoes. • Having an SCI affects so much more than the inability to walk. It affects the nervous, circulatory, and reproductive systems in the body. Many people with SCI have to deal with secondary health issues like ingrown toenails, the inability to sweat below their level of injury, muscle atrophy, and fluctuations in blood pressure. Having an SCI doesn’t just affect the person and their new outlook on their life, it also affects their family’s lives both emotionally and financially. Medical expenses for spinal cord injuries are often well in excess of a million dollars. The exact costs are primarily dependent on the severity of the injuries and the number of medical services needed. Some of the most common sources of expense include: • Spinal surgery • Trauma care, such as the use of a ventilator • Physical and occupational therapy, speech therapy, and mental health counseling • Long-term care, including the costs of in-home aides • Medical equipment such as wheelchairs • Medication such as painkillers and antibiotics

It’s important for the public to donate to causes that help advance research geared to curing paralysis. Like cancer, multiple sclerosis, or Alzheimer’s, the path to finding a cure for these diseases or other health disorders www.thepositivecommunity.com

like spinal cord injuries comes through clinical trials and donating to research causes. I believe a cure for paralysis is going happen. I’m not sure if it’s going to happen in 10 years or 30, but I do believe it’s going to happen. April 2019 The Positive Community

Service to Country and Community Tyshawn Jenkins, MBA ’15

“Our adult students live and are active within all aspects of their communities – whether it’s their church, through volunteerism or in their school district,” explains Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, president, Thomas Edison State University. “As a result, when they earn their degree they don’t just bring a new professional standard into their life, they bring to their communities a better understanding of how to be more effective in leading different business, civic and faithbased organizations. The expansion, the impact of that is tremendous.” Jenkins, whose life is paved with good causes, found himself the center of attention midcourt last April when he was presented with a “Hoops for Troops” award during the New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics game by Knicks legend, Larry Johnson, for service to his country and community. The decorated U.S. Air Force staff sergeant, N.J. Air National Guardsman and entrepreneur was selected for the award by “Hoops for Troops” partners the New York Knicks and Budweiser® for his efforts in creating a scholarship program for New Jersey’s Asbury Park High School students, serving as a mentor for Willingboro, N.J., middle school students and for his work as an ambassador for the Wounded Warrior Project and The Mission Continues programs. He managed these accomplishments while overseeing a photography and design firm, completing his Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree at the University and, even occasionally, carving out time to don a Spiderman costume at children’s benefits. He noted that, where an academic path such as his can be daunting, it is ultimately doable. “Earning my MBA has helped me both as an entrepreneur and a service member. I have been able to use the knowledge I’ve gained in managing projects in my career and in leading fellow military personnel. As the executive director of Retouch Factory, I have utilized many of the tools that I learned while taking marketing courses including best practices and market research. These tools have been critical in helping me to create a brand that is growing every day.”

Dave Saffran/MSG Photos

hen all eyes are on you during a NBA game at Madison Square Garden, it is usually for a good reason or a great cause. Like many of the adult learners who make up the Thomas Edison State University community, Tyshawn Jenkins came to the University an established force in his community: someone who was looking to change his own world, to set an example, or to break through a professional ceiling.

Tyshawn Jenkins, MBA ’15, was recognized during the Knicks vs. Celtics game last year by Knicks legend, Larry Johnson.

“Our alumni often tell us how their degree transformed their lives, improved how they perceive themselves and empowered them in ways they never envisioned.” Hancock says. And Jenkins was no exception. Seven percent of Retouch Factory’s client billings go to a charity of his clients’ choice. “I’m glad to have this built into my business model and be able to give back to the community in this way,” he noted. “Tyshawn took advantage of our MBA preparatory course work and the program’s accelerated pace,” said Camilla K. Lewis, assistant dean of Graduate Studies in the School of Business and Management. “He epitomizes military professionals honing their marketability through academic preparation and successfully transitioning to civilian life.” “My life has seen a complete change because of my MBA. I am proud to be the first member of my family to earn a college degree and a world of possibilities has opened up. The route I chose was not the traditional one, but it’s worked out well for me. As a military member, I urge fellow military personnel to take full advantage of the tuition assistance benefits to which they’re entitled.” Thomas Edison State University provides distinctive undergraduate and graduate education for self-directed adults through flexible, high-quality collegiate learning and assessment opportunities. To learn more visit tesu.edu.

EARN YOUR DEGREE. CHANGE YOUR WORLD.

Improving the lives of busy adults for more than 45 years. > Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral Degrees > 100+ Areas of Study > High-quality, affordable education > Flexible online programs > Generous transfer credits > Up to 12 start times per year > Fully accredited

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Visit tesu.edu or Call (609) 777-5680

BREAKING NEWS!

Tabernacle BC Joins TPC’s Roll Call to Progress

Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, senior pastor, Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, NJ

TPC Publisher Adrian Council, Sr. with Pastor Jones

Youth honorees: L-R: Praise Swoope, Daniel Purnell, Pastor Jones, Jaylyn James, and Makiah Warren

Photos: Karen Waters

abernacle Baptist Church of Burlington, NJ welcomed The Positive Community team at their Youth Sunday service. Tabernacle is located in the Philadelphia suburbs of South Jersey, and becomes the newest church to join the expanding Roll Call of churches (pg.7). The congregation enthusiastically endorsed the “Cultural Narrative” poster when publisher Adrian A. Council made an emotional appeal to families to teach the children their history and about our claim on the American Dream. Rev. Cory L. Jones is senior pastor of Tabernacle.

Cultural Narrative Supporters Danielle Thomas (center) and her daughters Zoe and Leah

The Positive Community April 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

DYLAN CHIDICK

A YOUNG MAN ON THE MOVE By Mack Williams Photos: Raymond Hagans

he month of April, coming on the heels of the official beginning of spring, brings joy and signals a new start for those awaiting the transition from a long winter. For many high school seniors, April is a month filled with uncertainty and fear as they ponder the very real possibility they will find themselves shut out of the college of their choice.

This, however, is not the April 2019 of Dylan Chidick, senior extraordinaire at Henry Snyder High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Academy of

the Arts in Jersey City, New Jersey. Dylan, the Trinidadian-born student council and senior class president, received offers of acceptance from no less than eighteen colleges and universities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a fact made even more amazing considering the challenges he has faced during the last few years.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

April 2019 The Positive Community

“I’ve been accepted to eighteen overall—including Morgan State, Allen University, Shaw University, William Paterson, Ramapo, Kean, New Jersey City University, York College, Siena College, Quinnipiac and Xavier University — but I’m going to be going to The College of New Jersey so for me, right now, that’s the only one that matters.” “I moved from Trinidad to America—Brooklyn, when I was seven years old in 2008,” explained Dylan, an easy-going yet focused young man liked and respected by all. “It was a very big culture shock for me because I didn’t know what snow was. I was like, what’s this thing falling from the sky? I had only seen it in pictures.” However, there were more changes in store for Dylan and his family beyond the difference in climate. “We moved around in Brooklyn a little bit, but then in 2016 the rent prices began to surge so we moved to Jersey City because it was cheaper. In Brooklyn I was in a pre-law track at Cobble Hill High School, but when I came here I wanted to try something different, like with the arts . . . and I’ve been here ever since.” With so many acceptances, some students would be overwhelmed and unsure as to which way to turn—but not Dylan. “I’ve been accepted to eighteen overall—including Morgan State, Allen University, Shaw University, William Paterson, Ramapo, Kean, New Jersey City University, York College, Siena College, Quinnipiac and Xavier University—

The Positive Community April 2019

but I’m going to be going to The College of New Jersey so for me, right now, that’s the only one that matters. It’s my dream school; I’ve wanted to go there since we visited there on a college tour during sophomore year. I knew I wanted to go far enough where I could be independent but not far enough that I couldn’t go back. I knew I wanted to stay in New Jersey.” “Dylan Chidick is a remarkable young man who has shown you can overcome great obstacles to do amazing things, not only for yourself but for your community,” says Snyder Principal Yvonne Waller. “Dylan gives back to the community and is a great asset here at the school with all the different activities he’s involved in—student council, National Honor Society, student ambassador . . . the list goes on and on.” Asked to name some role models and mentors, Dylan began with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and moved on to Principal Waller, Vice-Principal Howard, and the entire faculty at Snyder. His main influence in life, however, is his mother, the rock of their family. Her faith and determinacont’d on next page

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Dylan Chidick cont’d from previous page

Dylan has his sights set on Harvard Law School. “Rather than just being Dylan, the kid who got into eighteen colleges, I hope to be Dylan, the lawyer that’s helping people and changing lives and fighting for justice.”

Dylan and Snyder H.S. Principal Yvonne Waller

“Dylan Chidick is a remarkable young man who has shown you can overcome great obstacles to do amazing things, not only for yourself but for your community,” says Snyder Principal Yvonne Waller.

Jersey City Public Schools Associate Superintendent Ellen Ruane with Dylan

www.thepositivecommunity.com

tion kept things together when circumstances forced them to live in a homeless shelter for four months early in their move to New Jersey. Joining hands with Dylan and his younger twin brothers she prayed. Her spirit and refusal to give up inspires Dylan to this day. Though she worked for years as a home health aide, Dylan claims her true calling is cooking, and promises that when he becomes successful he wants to help her open her own Caribbean restaurant. “I wouldn’t be where I am now without my friends and family. I surround myself with good people who are motivated like me,” Dylan proudly declares. “My friends and I all got into more than five colleges; we’re all supportive of each other and we all hold each other accountable. Last year, when SAT time was coming up, we were all like, okay, no more social media. We made sure our parents all knew each other so they could help us create study sessions. But we also know how to have fun; we go to the movies, bowl, and go to restaurants. We know how to balance schoolwork and life.” An athlete as well, Dylan gave up throwing discus as well as shot put in his junior year due to his academic workload, which included taking advanced placement courses. “I love playing sports, but then again, it’s not my career choice and I knew I had to focus on school more. So choosing not to participate in the sports program any longer was a taste of adulthood, because I know that as an adult I’ll have to make difficult choices.” “We’re extremely excited for Dylan,” adds Principal Waller. “He’s a phenomenal human being, and so we’re really proud of his accomplishments and proud of how he was able to persevere over great challenges that many others – teenager or adult—would not have been able to overcome.” Right now, Dylan participates in a co-op program after school, as well as taking advanced courses at Hudson County Community College and has his future well planned. He will graduate from high school and attend TCNJ studying Political Science and History. After that, Dylan has his sights set on Harvard Law School. “Rather than just being Dylan, the kid who got into eighteen colleges, I hope to be Dylan, the lawyer that’s helping people and changing lives and fighting for justice.”

April 2019 The Positive Community

The Harlem Miracle BY ANNE WILLIAMS-ISOM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER HARLEM CHILDREN’S ZONE

t the Harlem Children’s Zone we are bringing people together to lift up our children, who are the heart and soul and joy of the Central Harlem community. In doing so, we are demonstrating what is possible for all of our children across America. We walk hand in hand with thousands of children and families on the long journey through college. Along the way, we work in partnership to make sure that we eliminate all the hurdles that our children may face to achieving college and career success. Since we began in 1970, we have built a comprehensive network of supports for children from birth through college, and we work to strengthen the families and community as a rock-solid foundation for those children. As a result we have more than 900 students in colleges around the country and have graduated more than 800 since 2005. We operate two high-quality, rigorous K-12 public charter schools that serve 2,000 children, but we also work with thousands of children from the

The Positive Community April 2019

neighborhood who attend traditional public schools. We have the same goal for all: college graduation as a pathway to prosperity. As any parent or caregiver knows, children have a wide, ever-changing set of needs and challenges. For that reason, we look at the needs of the entire child, and do so over 20 years or more. Central to our work is making sure they get a great education, but we also work to support their health, character development, as well as their social and emotional needs. If you define a miracle as something happening that you didn’t believe could happen then it was entirely appropriate that The New York Times called us “The Harlem Miracle.” Our success has gained the attention of the nation. President Barack Obama created the Promise Neighborhoods initiative for communities across the country to replicate our work and those programs are growing and thriving. We are a secular organization, but in a sense we are faith-based in that

we operate from a deep faith in our children, families and community. While Harlem has taken some heavy blows over the past few decades, it has always had a keystone of strong, and even heroic, residents who held on to make things right for the community and its children. Many of these folks are our partners as we lock arms to ensure the best for Harlem’s children. As a long-time Harlem resident, the daughter of a single immigrant mom and a lifelong advocate for vulnerable children, I am so proud of the work our Harlem Children’s Zone “Army of Love” has done. As important as the individual success stories have been, it is just as important that we have shown the world what black and brown children can do when really given the resources and opportunities they need. We have a generation of proof that our approach works. I hope that others in Harlem and beyond will join us in recognizing that all of America’s children are our children and that we must create a brighter pathway for all to have equal access to the American dream. www.thepositivecommunity.com

If Any Man Will If Sharon AnyHarden Man Will By:

By: Sharon Harden Program Chair, Elementary Education Program Chair, Elementary Education Pillar College Pillar College

W W

ho will dispute evidence from eduho will dispute evidence from education experts that all students benecation experts that all students benefit when they are taught by teachers fit when they are taught by teachers who look like them? Who will argue with the who look like them? Who will argue with the fact that most black students. fact that most black students. in urban schools and districts across the in urban schools and districts across the country show academic and social gains when country show academic and social gains when theyhave been taught by black teachers? And theyhave been taught by black teachers? And who among us will dispute that education who among us will dispute that education is still themost promising pathway to enable is still themost promising pathway to enable children to escape poverty and achieve their children to escape poverty and achieve their dreams? dreams?We Weknow knowunequivocally unequivocallythat that instruinstrumental in activating and motivating mental in activating and motivatingprogress progress along this along thispathwayis pathwayisthe theclassroom classroomteacher. teacher. How is it then that some boys and girls How is it then that some boys and girls may may gogo through throughtheir theirentireelementary entireelementaryschool school experience experienceand andnot notsee seeone oneblack blackmale male teacher? teacher? Some non-white Some non-whitestudentsas studentsasearly earlyas aselementary elementary grades gradesbelieve believethat thatall allteachers teachersmust must be be white. white. Some pass Some passfrom fromonegrade onegradeto tothe thenext next and and never never have a teacher have a teacherwho wholooks lookslike likethem. them. Newarkalone, alone,about about57 57percent percentof of teachers teachers InIn Newark are blackororHispanic Hispanicalong alongwith with89 89percent percent of are black the district’sstudents. students.InInurban urbandistricts districts here here the district’s and across the country where ethnic and racial, and across the country where ethnic and racial, differencesininthe theclassroom classroomdo doindeed indeed make make aa differences difference in student achievement and difference in student achievement and motivation,we weoften oftenhear hearthe thequestion: question: “Where “Where motivation, are the black male teachers?” Statements are the black male teachers?” Statements affirming this apparent absence of a black male affirming this apparent absence of a black male presence in our classrooms are all too presence in our classrooms are all too

commonplace since only 20 percent of teachers commonplace since themselves only 20 percent of teachers in the U.S. identify as non-white in the U.S. identify themselves as non-white and only 2 percent are black men. Interestingly, and only 2 percent are disappeared black men. Interestingly, black educators have from the black educators have disappeared from the scene in our classrooms before throughout scene in our classrooms before throughout history. For instance, in 1954 there were 82,000 history. For instance, 1954 there wereIn82,000 black teachers in U.S.inpublic schools. the black teachers in U.S. public schools. In the decade following Brown v. Board of Education, decade following Brown v. Board of Education, we lost roughly 40,000 black teachers and we lost roughly 40,000 black teachers and principals as all-black schools shut down. principals as all-black schools shut down. Accordingly,many blacks prior to this time Accordingly,many blacks prior to this time went into the teaching profession and were went into the teaching profession and were depicted as aseither eithervictims victimsofoftheir theiroppressive oppressive depicted environments or as trained professionals who environments or as trained professionals who embraced and taughtan emancipatory form embraced and taughtan emancipatory form of education. education. of In 2014, 2014, the theCenter Centerfor forAmerican AmericanProgress Progress In reported that thatteachers teacherswho wholook looklike liketheir their reported students have higher expectations, may students have higher expectations, may provide culturally culturallyrelevant relevantteaching, teaching,develop develop provide trusting relationships relationshipswith withtheir theirstudents, students, contrusting confront are front issues issuesof ofracism racismthrough throughteaching, teaching,and and are oftenseen oftenseen as asadvocates advocatesand andcultural culturalbrokers. brokers. It is important importantthat thatstudents studentssee seetheir theircultural cultural values, beliefs, religion, language, and values, beliefs, religion, language, and ethnicity ethnicity reflected reflectedininthe theeducational educationalenterprise. enterprise. In In addition, addition,Johns JohnsHopkins HopkinsUniversity Universityreleased released its 2017 study that found multiple risk factors its 2017 study that found multiple risk factors for byby for low-incomeblack low-incomeblackstudents studentswere werereduced reduced as much as 39 percent in some instances simply as much as 39 percent in some instances simply by having justone black teacher. by having justone black teacher.

Learn more at Learn more at Pil l a r pillar.edu/elementary-education COLLEGE Call Today 1-800-234-9305 | PILLAR.EDU Pillar PILLAR pillar.edu/elementary-education PILLAR COLLEGE Call Today 1-800-234-9305 | PILLAR.EDU PILLAR COLLEGE Call Today 1-800-234-9305 | PILLAR.EDU C O L L E G E C O Truth L Lin Education E G E TM

Truth in Education

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PILLAR COLLEGE Call Today 1-800-234-9305 | PILLAR.EDU 4/16/19 12:26 PM

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Pillar

C O L L E G E Truth in Education

f you’d like to learn more about professions that enable you to serve wholeheartedly and faithfully in your life’s work or want to learn more about a biblically based, Christ-centered education at Pillar, we’d love to introduce you to Christian perspectives at work in your future career. For more information on how Pillar College can help you pursue your ministry and educational goals, please phone us at 973-803-5000 or email info@pillar.edu. Friday night speaker Betzi Schroeder, wife of President David Schroeder shares with students the painful but beneficial process of spiritual pruning as part of abiding in Christ.

Group photo of Dr. Maxine Bradshaw, Chair of Psychology and Counseling (3rd from right) posing with several of her students after the Saturday evening session.

2019 Abiding in Christ theme from John 15:5

Friendship building as teams of students engage in a bandana coloring activity.

Group shot on Day 3 of the Abiding in Christ retreat just before our final session.

A symbolic Saturday bonfire activity where students were encouraged to write letters casting their burdens on paper and releasing them to God. www.thepositivecommunity.com

2019 Abiding in Christ Friday night group photo April 2019 The Positive Community

Students Choosing SUNY Old Westbury in Higher and Higher Numbers

ore and more students are continuing to choose SUNY Old Westbury. With more than 5,000 students registered for classes this year– the largest student body in its history – the College completes a decade in which it achieved enrollment growth of approximately 45 percent. The growth in enrollment last fall to 5,077 students follows a trend that has developed over the past 10 years. In fall 2008, the College's enrollment was 3,505. “The future is bright for our students and our college,” said College President Calvin O. Butts, III. “More and more students are responding to SUNY Old Westbury’s combination of challenging academic coursework, commitment to the enriching value of human diversity, personal attention, real-world opportunities, and a vibrant campus life.” Included in the 2018-19 student body is the largest freshman class in College history with 751 students, the third consecutive year that record has been broken. SUNY Old Westbury this fall also welcomed the first students in its new graduate degree programs in Forensic Accounting and Childhood Special Education.

The Positive Community April 2019

“We are proud that students and families continue to recognize that SUNY Old Westbury offers the best of both worlds – a small college environment with academic programs that challenge the mind and prepare students to own their futures,” said Butts. Emphasizing Student Success A large focus of the College is the implementation of its “Student Success Initiative,” which encompasses campus-wide efforts to keep students on track to graduation, informed of the services and opportunities available to them, and moving forward toward the completion of their degrees. “Our formula is simple: when our students succeed, we succeed,” said President Butts. “Our growth is a by-product of the efforts to continually enhance our offerings and services, to raise our profile across Long Island and the metropolitan area, and to ensure more students complete their degrees.” From intensive advising to the increased use of collaborative learning spaces in its new or newly renovated academic and library spaces, the “small-college” atmosphere of Old Westbury coupled with the

focused attention on individual needs and support is empowering students to own the futures they envision for themselves. Recent National Recognitions Growth in enrollment isn’t the only symbol of the quality of SUNY Old Westbury. The College in August was ranked by Money Magazine in its 2018 “Best Colleges” issue among the colleges and universities that are the best value in America. SUNY Old Westbury was also one of only 96 institutions nationwide to receive the 2018 Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the only national honor recognizing U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion across their campus. Learn more about the recent successes of SUNY Old Westbury and its nearly 70 undergraduate and graduate degree offerings by attending Open House on Saturday, April 27, 2019. Call 516-876-3200 or visit www.oldwestbury.edu to register. www.thepositivecommunity.com

OWN YOUR FUTURE

From our intentionally small classes to the skills of our excellent faculty, everything SUNY Old Westbury offers is geared to enrich your experience and prepare you to pursue your own big dream. • High-quality instruction in a small college environment, all at the affordable price of SUNY tuition… • Nearly 50 undergraduate majors in the sciences offered in our schools of Arts & Sciences, Business, Education and Professional Studies… • Recognized for the diversity of its dynamic student body by U.S. News & World Report, Insight Into Diversity magazine, and USA Today/College Factual… With a solid foundation from SUNY Old Westbury, you’ll have the confidence in your own abilities to succeed at whatever you choose to undertake — to own your future.

Calvin O. Butts, III, President

www.oldwestbury.edu

Top reasons to come to College of Saint Elizabeth: • Student to faculty undergraduate ratio 13:1 • One-on-one attention • Close-knit learning community • 12 Division III athletic teams

• • • • •

Internships Financial aid Honors program STEM programs Clubs and activities

Third among private schools in New Jersey on Money magazine’s “Best Colleges in 2018” list

One of U.S. News & World Report “Best Ethnic Diversity” colleges Among top 100 schools on Washington Monthly’s “Best Bang for the Buck – North” (#38 out of 400 in Northeast region)

www.cse.edu

Big Stories

Small Campus

he College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE) is a community of learning in the Catholic liberal arts tradition for students of diverse ages, backgrounds and cultures focused on engaged learning for leadership in service to others. Located in Morristown, N.J., CSE was established almost 120 years ago by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth as the state’s first four-year Catholic college for women. The College became fully co-educational at the undergraduate level in 2016. Today, CSE is a vibrant learning community of nearly 1,200 students, with more than 500 traditional undergraduates and 600-plus enrolled – on campus, off-campus and online – in continuing studies and graduate programs. Students are taught by faculty members who are passionately enwww.thepositivecommunity.com

gaged with, and strongly committed to, their students and the CSE community. The diversity of the student body, with its multicultural and international richness, is celebrated in many ways throughout the College. Sixty-three percent of CSE’s student population is comprised of firstgeneration college students. Seventy-six percent of first-time freshmen are low-income students who are eligible for federal Pell funding and 97 percent of undergraduate students receive some form of assistance either through CSE institutional scholarships, state and federal funding or private scholarships. Nationally recognized, CSE is ranked third among private schools in New Jersey on Money magazine's "Best Colleges in 2018" list. U.S. News & World Report lists CSE among "Best Ethnic Diversity" colleges and ranks the College's M.A. in Justice Ad-

ministration and Public Service tied for No. 14 in the nation for online criminal justice graduate programs. Washington Monthly includes CSE among the top 100 schools on both "Best Master's Universities" (#98 out of 695 nationwide) and "Best Bang for the Buck – North" (#38 out of 400 in Northeast region). The College is devoted to preparing responsible leaders for meaningful lives in a changing world and is committed to providing a superior educational experience that is affordable. This commitment to students is underscored by the CSE Promise – if any student, who fully participates in the program for all four years at CSE, does not receive a job offer or is not accepted into graduate/professional school within six months of graduation, the College will provide that student with a paid six-month internship. April 2019 The Positive Community

Uncommon Charter High School Becomes a Leader in STEM

or the second year in a row, Brooklyn’s Uncommon Charter High School was recognized as a Distinguished School by Project Lead the Way, a nationally recognized organization that promotes STEM subjects in schools. Uncommon Charter High School, or UCHS, is just one of 64 high schools in the U.S. and one of only two in New York City to receive the honor. The other, Brooklyn Technical High School, is a public magnet school that specializes in mathematics, science, engineering and computer science. Students from Uncommon Schools, a network of 24 high performing public charter schools in Brooklyn serving over 8,500 students, get in through a random lottery--there is no entrance exam. “This is a phenomenal recognition for our students, teachers and school to receive,” said Principal Thomas O’Brien. “It’s the culmination of lots of our work to offer more options of courses for kids, expand opportunity to as many students as possible and then to provide amazing instruction to help them perform at the highest possible level.”

Kayahma Brown’s experience illustrates what happens when students have more STEM options. Now a freshman at Smith College, the elite women’s college in Northampton, Mass., Kayahma is majoring in Mechanical Engineering, taking a tough course load in her spring semester consisting of Calculus II, Computer Science and Physics. At Uncommon, Kayahma built her own website with three computer games that she coded so that she could send off the samples of her work to potential colleges. She took her games to area middle school students. One day, while visiting a middle school, she noticed that the girls in the classroom had not volunteered to play any of her games, but boys did. “I could tell you were interested but none of you thought this was for you, right?” she said to the girls. “I’m here to tell you that women of color can and should get into coding, and it has opened so many doors for me. It’s like I found a cheat code to getting into colleges because there are not

enough women of color applying for these programs.” At UCHS, students engage in realworld problem-solving as they program robotic arms to pick up and deliver items, write computer programs to interpret data sources, and use Autodesk Inventor and Makerbot 3D printers to design and print items like marker holders for the white board and personalized headphone storage cases." In their Aerospace Engineering course on a recent day, students tested gliders they made out of balsa wood after designing them on computers and testing their designs in a computer simulation. They took their gliders to the gym to see how they flew. Students needed to understand the concepts of air resistance, air density, the coefficient of drag and how to calculate lift. UCHS is beginning to see more students accepted to elite engineering programs, including New York University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Rochester Institute of Technology, and Syracuse University College of Engineering.

Uncommon Charter High School Signing Day

The Positive Community April 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

At Uncommon Schools, our teachers are leading the way in transforming education for our students. Outside the classroom, leaders from all career paths join us to have just as great an impact on our students. Make your career part of something bigger. Join our movement.

Jacobi Clifton Morehouse College â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;10 Principal Uncommon Schools is the largest charter school management organization in the Northeast. At our 53 schools serving 19,000 students in the Northeast, we are closing the opportunity gap and preparing our students to graduate from college.

Join Us at UncommonSchools.org

NEW YORK SCHOOL OF CAREER & APPLIED STUDIES

A DIVISION OF TOURO COLLEGE / Where Knowledge and Values Meet

CAREER FOCUSED, STUDENT CENTERED BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE WITH A NYSCAS EDUCATION

ouro was ranked #1 by MONEY in the Value-Added All-Stars rating for 2017. Touro has been recognized as top in the category for helping students beat the odds. That means that Touro students outperformed their peers from similar academic and economic backgrounds on important success indicators such as graduation rates, alumni employment and student loan repayment rate. How do they do it? As a progressive urban institution of higher learning, Touro’s NYSCAS supports, accommodates and celebrates students from diverse cultures through flexible course schedules, small classes, caring faculty and advisors. With classes at night and on weekends, NYSCAS knows that one size does not fit all when it comes to delivering comprehensive academic programs to students dedicated to their academic and career future. NYSCAS welcomes recent high school graduates and transfer students as well as nontraditional students who are currently working and are returning to pursue higher education after taking an extended break from school. Academic pathways to real world professions With over 45 associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs, NYSCAS offers rigorous academic training that prepares graduates for real-world jobs, including Business Management and Administration, Criminal Justice, Digital Multimedia Design, Education, Biology, Health Sciences (pre-med, pre-dental) Human Services, Information Technology, Liberal Arts and Sciences, Paralegal Studies, Pre-Law and Psychology. Experienced and caring advisors are on hand at locations throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens to guide students from application process to graduation. Career development personnel and faculty with professional networks in their fields help undergrads land meaningful internships and prepare for job interviews.

42 48

The Positive Community October April 2019 2018

Reaching higher in higher Ed For students who want to go further, NYSCAS opens doors to graduate degrees. Eugenia, an honors student, graduated with a B.S. in Biology and is now enrolled in New York University’s College of Dentistry. Ram, a web developer who earned a B.S. from NYSCAS went on to receive a Master’s degree from Touro Graduate School of Technology. And Yasmin, who earned a B.S. in biology and will continue her education at Touro’s Physician Assistant program at the School of Health Sciences. “I have always loved medicine,” Yasmin said. “This career allows me to pursue my dream to practice medicine while still being able to have a family life.” Sgt. Ingrid Anderson, an honors student, received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and biology after serving four years in the armed services and three years in the reserves. These are just a few examples of NYSCAS outstanding students and alumni who are pursuing the education they dreamed of in ways that work for their lifestyle and professional goals. An excellent value A NYSCAS education is more affordable than you may think. Financial aid counselors can discuss the best ways to pay for your education and help determine your eligibility for a wide range of aid, including generous internal Touro grants and scholarships. So what are you waiting for? Call 1-888-334-7992 to make an appointment or visit us at nyscas.touro.edu. Career focused, student-centered. Let NYSCAS get you to where you want to go. Touro is an equal opportunity institution. For Touro’s complete Non-Discrimination Statement, please visit www.touro.edu www.thepositivecommunity.com

MONEY magazine says Touro’s NYSCAS is #1. So do our students.

Steve O. B.A. | NYSCAS ’18 Future Special Ed teacher

Your path to success starts at New York School of Career & Applied Studies (NYSCAS). Students like Steve choose from more than 45 associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs at seven convenient locations throughout the metro area. Choose NYSCAS. A division of Touro College.

1.212.463.0400 x5500 | NYSCAS.TOURO.EDU

Touro is an equal opportunity institution. For Touro’s complete Non-Discrimination Statement, visit www.touro.edu *Touro College was named #1 in the Value-added all star category. MONEY is a registered trademark of Time Inc. and is used under license. From MONEY Magazine, ©2017 Time Inc. Used under license. MONEY and Time Inc. are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of Touro College.

Graduate

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Saturday, May 4 • 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Learn about our programs, meet faculty and receive an instant decision on your application. Graduate Degrees: • Accountancy (MS) • Business Administration (MBA) • Communication and Public Relations (MA) • Marketing Science (MS) Online • Cyber Security (MS) • Data Science (MS) • Education (MA, Ed.D.)

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CORRECTION

n the March 019 issue on page 10, the My View column incorrectly stated that Senator Kamala Harris, Democratic candidate for President of the United States attended Hampton University. Sen. Harris graduated from Howard University with a degree in Political Science and University of California, Hastings College of the Law where she earned a Juris Doctor (J.D) degree.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

Facebook.com/aapo.parades.festival

The ShopRite of Newark

April 2019 The Positive Community

L–R: NJ Governor Murphy and Secretary of Higher Education Zakiya Smith Ellis

L–R: Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo, Rutgers University President Robert L. Barchi, and Gov. Phil Murphy

Vision for a Student Bill of Rights Governor Phil Murphy and Secretary of Higher Education Smith Ellis Announce New Plan for New Jersey Higher Education

J Governor Murphy and Secretary of Higher Education Smith Ellis unveiled a statewide higher education plan at Rutgers University-Newark on March 26. The student-centered vision for improving NJ higher education includes a Task Force that will be divided into five Working Groups, each co-chaired by education leaders in the state. L–R: NJEA VP Sean M. Spiller; New Jersey City University President, Susan Henderson, Ph.D.; NJ Dept. of Education Commissioner Dr. Lamont Repollet; and NJEA Secretary Treasurer Steve Beatty

L–R: President of Camden County College and cochairs Donald A. Borden; Founder, Overdeck Family Foundation Laura Overdeck; Executive Dir. Newark City of Learning Collaborative Reginald Lewis; and Pres. Stockton University Harvey Kesselman. Photos: Raymond Hagans

Office of the Secretary of Higher Education; L–R: Dir. Finance Maisha Howard, Policy Analyst Dillon McNamara, and Assistant to the Secretary and Deputy Secretary Lauren Banks

The Positive Community April 2019

L–R: Asst. Chancellor University-Community Partnerships Rutgers University-Newark Dr. Diane Hill, Thomas Edison State University VP Community of Governmental Affairs Robin A. Walton, Rutgers University VP State Government Affairs David A. Weinstein, and Rutgers University VP University Communications and Marketing Kim Manning www.thepositivecommunity.com

keley College Commencement 10, 2019 dential Center ark, NJ

By Jessica Walker

JessicaBerkeleyCollege.edu Walker is president and •CEO of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, #BerkeleyGrad an organization representing 1,600 member-businesses. Ms. Walker, of Harlem NY, is a public policy expert who has advocated on behalf of New York City residents, neighborhoods and businesses for more than 15 years.

Proprietary Colleges Are Vital

to New York City’s Higher Education Ecosystem

ollege is not a one-size fits all proposition. College graduates like Shakim Richardson and Nancy Robles-Guess know this firsthand. Mr. Richardson, who grew up in Brooklyn, knew he would need a college that provided smaller class sizes and a personalized touch. “Berkeley College was the right fit because of the individualized attention I received from faculty and college personnel,” Mr. Richardson said. Mr. Richardson was a

Student Government leader and belonged to numerous honor societies. During his time at Berkeley, he held internships at the Queens Borough President’s Office and the NYC Administration for Children’s Services, which aligned with his passion for giving back. Mr. Richardson graduated from Berkeley College in 2018. This fall Mr. Richardson will begin the Sociology of Education Master’s program at NYU Steinhardt, as he prepares to become a teacher in Justice Studies. He is

currently employed with Samaritan Daytop Village, a human services agency in New York City. Nancy Robles-Guess is Executive Vice President at Eastern Funding LLC, a commercial lender based in Manhattan that services small- and medium-sized businesses nationwide. As an immigrant from Costa Rica, Ms. Robles-Guess said at one time, college seemed unattainable to her. Read more online at thepositivecommunity.com

We’re Berkeley Proud! Congratulations to Our Graduates.

Berkeley College Commencement May 10, 2019 Prudential Center Newark, NJ

www.thepositivecommunity.com

BerkeleyCollege.edu • #BerkeleyGrad

April 2019 The Positive Community

L–R: AFUWI Board Member Dr. Ronald Chase, Hotelier Kevin Hendrickson and Golden Krust Caribbean Bakeries President Lorna Hawthorne

Annual Legacy Awards Gala The American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI)

L–R: Michael Flannigan, Former Prime Minister of Jamaica Rt. Hon. P J Patterson, and Hon. Charles Rangel

niversity of the West Indies Vice Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary D. Beckles, along with members of the UWI faculty, students, senior leadership team, and more than 400 guests, were onhand for this special event. Honorees: Her Excellency Pennelope A. Beckles, permanent representative of Trinidad and Tobago to the United Nations—The Pelican Award; Kevin Hendrickson, BBA, CD, director, Jamaica Pegasus, Ltd.— Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Business Leadership; Malcolm D. Lee, film director, screenwriter and producer—Pinnacle Pathfinder Award; Anya Schnoor, EVP Retail Products Scotiabank—Caribbean Luminary Award; The Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, premier of The Turks & Caicos Islands - The Legacy Award; Hon. Dr. Hubert Alexander Minnis, prime minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas—The Legacy Award International Reggae Artist Christer Martin and DJ Dwayne Jones performed. Photos: Seitu Oronde

L–R: Honoree H.E. Pennelope Beckles, Trinidad & Tobago UN ambassador; Former Prime Minister of Jamaica Rt. Hon. P. J. Patterson; Dr. Gerald White Davis, MD; Celia Davidson-Francis, director of Alumni Relations and CCNY dept. chair; and associate professor Dr. Hazel Carter,

L–R: Lloyd Williams, GHCC; Producer/Press Agent Irene Gandy, and VP Brian Gertler, LDI

L–R: Jamie Washington and Harlem Week Inc., Exec. Dir. Winston Majette

The Positive Community April 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

New Jersey Institute of Technology #1 Nationally for Student Upward Economic Mobility

Forbes

Join Us for an

Undergraduate Open House Sunday, April 28 openhouse.njit.edu

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS

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has been proudly serving our students & the community for 50 years

Join us at our 50th Anniversary Scholarship Gala on May 2 at the Crystal Plaza, Livingston, NJ, as we celebrate half a century of service. For tickets, contact Dr. Leigh Bello-deCastro at galainfo@essex.edu

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April 2019 The Positive Community

Culture

music, art + literature

The Gospel According to Farrow Keeping Things Fresh With The Idea Everything Old Is New Again BY R.L. WITTER A. Curtis Farrow

f you don’t know A. Curtis Farrow, you better ask somebody. But everybody knows A. Curtis Farrow; they just might not know they know him. Some became familiar with his name in 2012 when he planned and executed the homegoing services for the beloved Whitney Houston; others when he did the same for Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin last summer. But those who truly know Farrow know him as a man of deep faith and have seen that faith manifest over twenty years as Farrow’s vision and transformation of McDonald’s Gospelfest came to fruition. “When I first started producing Gospelfest it was mostly inside the churches… I said I love being in the churches but churches can be territorial… let’s take it out of the church and bring it into a theater and that way it’ll be a more neutral environment and I promise we’ll get more people,” he recalled. He was planning the 2000 Gospelfest back in 1999. “I knew God had blessed me to come and do this work so I knew it was the right thing to do… We need to give these young, beautiful, gifted artists the opportunity to perform in the same venues as the big stars they all worship. Even the gospel stars didn’t get to perform in those back then.” When you’re right, you’re right. Farrow’s inspired idea took Gospelfest from 500 applicants to 3,000 that year and now boasts more than 20,000 hopefuls annu-

The Positive Community April 2019

ally. While naysayers flicked church fans saying he took Gospelfest out of the church, Farrow countered explaining, “We brought the church to the community. We’re doing what the church is supposed to do, shining light and showing people everywhere our lives, our faith, and our talent.” After twenty years, Farrow is keeping things fresh with the idea that everything old is new again. This year, he’s focusing on the classics with a lineup boasting gospel legends Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, Fred Hammond, and Hezekiah Walker. “These artists are staples of gospel,” Farrow explained. “These people are the foundation — a strong foundation. So many young artists and young people are struggling because they don’t have a foundation in God. So we’re letting them experience the base and foundation of gospel in these greats, who are rooted in God. They’re timeless.” In his years at the helm of the preeminent gospel production around the world, Farrow has received accolades, citations, and two Emmy awards for his work with McDonald’s Gospelfest. But truth be told, it’s the little things, which are sometimes bigger than fanfare, that feed his soul and motivate him to continue to do God’s work through Gospelfest and other projects. “People come up to me around the world and tell me ‘I went back to church’ after seeing Whitney’s or Aretha’s homegoing,” www.thepositivecommunity.com

“

So many young artists and

K O EW B O e s a e l e R

young people are struggling because they don’t have a foundation in God.

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ber why they were fighting,” Farrow said with amazement. “To this day, their relationship is so much better. So you never know what somebody needs or who you’re going to touch by doing this work. And for me, that’s the blessing. I pray for that more than anything… even if only two people show up, that someone’s life will be touched and encouraged — filled with a great spirit of love, peace, and joy. If we just touch one, I’ve done my job.” He does his job well, and his company, Irving Street Rep, Inc. continues to wow Gospelfest audiences as well as audiences across the country and around the world with show-stopping productions and promotions, which have included a 2,000 voice choir at Madison Square Garden and a 5,000 voice choir at Nassau Coliseum. Recently, they produced a 500-voice choir in Los Angeles. The company provides marketing, promotion, and event planning service for a variety of corporate clients. As Farrow approaches this twentieth McDonald’s Gospelfest, he’s ready, willing, and able to once again bring the church to the community and touch lives. “I’m of the black community. I live in the black community. I can tell you what we need because I live it day to day,” he said. “My offices are in the community; my church is in the community; my life is in the community.” That church is First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem, and Michael Walrond is the pastor who is filling Farrow’s heart and spirit so he can, in turn, fill up the rest of us through his work. “God is amazing,” Farrow said. “I am blessed.”

tt e n n o B Leary

Farrow said. “One man told me, ‘I never was going to go to church, but when I heard that choir singing at Aretha’s services, it did something to me.’ The next Sunday he was in church and now he’s in the ministry!” He had a similar experience three years ago when an estranged couple attended Gospelfest to watch their child perform. After the music and a sermon by Reverend A.R. Bernard, they experienced a change of heart. “They couldn’t remem-

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Deacon Willie R. Burke Honored Metropolitan Deacons honor Chairman of the Board PHOTO AND TEXT BY VINCENT BRYANT

he Metropolitan Baptist Church; Pastor David Jefferson, Sr.; and the members of the Laymen’s Movement gathered on March 30 to honor the organization’s national president, Deacon Willie R. Burke. Deacon Burke received recognition for all the great work and service he has performed for the sake of Christ. The event took place during a men's conference at the church with the theme,“Straight Talk for Men.” Deacon Burke is in the fourth year of his term as president of the National Baptist Convention USA, Inc. Laymen’s Movement and is also the longtime chairman of the board of deacons at Metropolitan. Over the years, he

Deacons and Pastor Rev. Dr. David Jefferson Sr. (3rd from Left) Keith Davis, Bishop Rudy Carlton, Willie R. Burke, Nehemiah Bowdre, and Daryl Koon

has served in nearly every leadership capacity in which a layman can serve, including two terms as the Laymen president of the General Baptist State Convention of New Jersey. The confer-

ence was well attended by men from across the state. We enjoyed several selections from the gospel group 4 for Christ, a word and breakfast. Congratulations to our leader.

Rev. Dr. Olivia Stanard named Interim Pastor Mount Zion B.C., Newark, NJ

Photo: Vincent Bryant

he historic (est.1879) Mount Zion Baptist Church in Newark, NJ welcomed Rev. Dr. Olivia Stanard as interim pastor on January 20, 2019. Rev. Stanard received a degree in Psychology from Rutgers Newark, Master of Divinity degree from New York Theological Seminary, and Doctorate of Ministry in Le adership from Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University. She is also a trained Certified Temperament Therapist in Family and Marriage Therapy, licensed by the New York Christian Counseling Center. Prior to her call to ministry, Stanard was employed as a flight attendant with United Airlines. After retirement, she worked as a counselor for the Northern New Jersey Child Health Consortium of Paramus, NJ, having the opportunity to author two guidebooks. Most recently she served as executive minister of operations and licensed counseling minister for Community Baptist Church of Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Stanard says she is excited to learn and lead the community with God’s vision during this new season.

The Positive Community April 2019

www.thepositivecommunity.com

alvin ailey american dance theater

may 10-12

Samantha Figgins and Jeroboam Bozeman Photo: Andrew Eccles

majah hype Where Yuh From??? Sun, May 12 @ 5 & 7:45PM The King of Caribbean Comedy returns for a Mother’s Day comedy special.

kevin james Sat, Jun 1 @ 2 & 7:30PM Experience the film with the score performed live by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra!

Sat, Jun 8 @ 8PM A night of hilarity with the star of The King of Queens.

HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowlingand Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s18)

iyanla vanzant Acts of Faith Remix Tour Fri, Jun 21 @ 7:30PM A new interactive event with the acclaimed spiritual teacher. @NJPAC • 1.888.GO.NJPAC • njpac.org Groups of 9 or more call 973.353.7561 One Center Street Newark, NJ

bring it! live Sat, Jul 13 @ 8PM An all-new live tour featuring the stars of Lifetime’s Bring It!

gladys knight special guest Will Downing Thu, Aug 29 @ 8PM An evening of timeless soul, R&B and more!

More than Music Yolanda Adams Inspires Youngsters at Disney Dreamers BY DERREL JAZZ JOHNSON

ive-time Grammy-Award winning gospel legend Yolanda Adams has inspired millions across the globe with her iconic voice and soulful sounds. Adams inspires in other ways, as well. For instance, her work with Disney Dreamers Academy. A partnership between Disney, Steve Harvey, and Essence magazine, 100 high school students ages 13-19 participate in a life-changing weekend of activities. Adams connects with young people sharing stories about herself that are relatable to them. “That’s the way I can contribute and add to the lives of young people, so they know that even a famous person

The Positive Community April 2019

Yolanda Adams

like me has gone through what they are going through.” The Houston, Texas native shared a bit of her story: “When I was growing up, everybody put you in a box, so I talk about being unboxable. Folks told me that because I was tall, I should play basketball, but my passion was tennis, so I went against the grain and I played tennis,” said the 6’1” Adams, who cited the Williams Sisters as black women who are tall and successful at tennis. She, however, “didn’t have the Williams Sisters to idolize.” A huge supporter of higher education for young people, Adams says she believes, “… all kids should have

some exposure to higher education. I am a firm believer in that. As a former educator, I know the value of it. Even if they go for a semester, or a year, what college and university do is expose young people to greater possibilities.” Adams shared this anecdote: “I went into my first year studying to be a biomedical technician,” explained Adams, who graduated from Texas Southern University. “I had no business doing it, but I love science and math.” One standard requirement, however, sent her to another major. “When they told us we had to cut a pig open, I’m like, ‘I’m out!’ because I don’t like harming animals. My parents supported me and I told them I would rather go into communications, radio/TV journalism specifically, I’m using that,” citing the Yolanda Adams Morning Show and television hosting appearances. Adams spoke more about why she believes higher education is so important. “I do believe it helps you learn who you are. With the exposure, and then learning to be pliable and teachable, I think that’s how you find out what you’re good at and what you’re not good at.” Though Adams had interests in tennis, and worked as an educator, she found what she was good at and has blessed the world with her music. Yolanda Adams will be performing at Gospelfest on Saturday, May 11 at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

www.thepositivecommunity.com

CAMP NEWARK MUSEUM A STEAM Program

2019 Theme

THIS IS AMERICA

An innovative six-week experience for ages 3-14. Arousing childrens curiousity through the Museum’s world class art and science collection.

July 8 - August 16 Limited Space! Early Bird Registration March 1 - April 30 What parents are saying: “It’s outrageously wonderful” “This camp rocks!” Register Online today: newarkmuseum.org/camp or call 973.596.6637 www.thepositivecommunity.com

April 2019 The Positive Community

MWANDIKAJI K. MWANAFUNZI THE WAY AHEAD

Focusing on Christ’s Resurrection

here are Christians and churches that prefer calling the day Christ rose from the dead “Resurrection Sunday” rather than “Easter Sunday.” I am one of those Christians. On Resurrection Sunday, Christians celebrate Jesus Christ rising from the dead after His crucifixion. Jesus rose on the third day. According to what I have read, the word “Easter” has pagan European origins. Early medieval and pre-medieval peoples in the places now known as England and Germany celebrated a pagan holiday called “Oestre” during the time of year identified as March and April. Their celebration included rabbits, dyed egg shells, and other things. These peoples continued these traditions even as Christianity took greater hold in Europe. Later, when the British and their descendents eventually conquered and settled in what are now the United States, Canada, and parts of the Caribbean, these traditions became American Easter traditions.

The Positive Community April 2019

Memories of Easter Sunday during my earliest years are enjoying baskets of candy, dyed eggs, and images of Easter bunnies. As for my pre-teen and junior high school years, Easter meant wearing new suits to Sunday school, around the NYCHA project where we lived, and while walking the approximately half-mile between the project and the church where I attended Sunday school. Of course, Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection from the dead are what we actually celebrate on Easter Sunday. Christian celebration of Resurrection Sunday is not about new clothes, Easter eggs, or Easter bunnies. Resurrection Sunday is about glorifying Jesus Christ’s being risen from death after his crucifixion. Resurrection Sunday also gives Christians hope regarding achieving everlasting life, in heaven, with God. Christ died for our sins. We can have everlasting life if we believe in Christ. These are what Resurrection Sunday is about. Resurrection Sunday church activities should reinforce these beliefs among Christians, and even help draw non-Christians to the recognition that through believing in Christ, they can achieve everlasting life. I know Christ’s resurrection and his ascension to the sky were not done to encourage Christians to believe our bodies will physically rise to heaven after we die. Our life after death will be spiritual, not physical. Our souls, not our bodies, will enter heaven. So, I analyze that Christ’s physical resurrection on earth and his physical ascension to the sky, both of which occurred after his physical death, were done to strongly encourage Christians to believe eternal life is achievable through Christ. I analyze that Christ physically rose from death and physically ascended to heaven in order to dramatically demonstrate that believing in Him will enable believers to live in heaven after death. I cannot be more profound than the Scriptures, so I encourage you to read within the four Gospels and elsewhere in the Bible, the Scriptures relating to Christ’s Resurrection. The books of Mathew, Mark, and Luke each devote the final chapter to the Resurrection. The Book of John devotes the final two chapters. Study and believe. www.thepositivecommunity.com

PATRICIA BALDWIN

Evangelist Timiney Figueroa Shares Her Journey Grace & Peace Family! Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God. It cost God plenty to get you out of that dead-end, empty-headed life you grew up in. He paid with Christ’s sacred blood, you know. He died like an unblemished, sacrificial lamb. And this was no afterthought. Even though it has only lately—at the end of the ages— become public knowledge, God always knew he was going to do this for you. It’s because of this sacrificed Messiah, whom God then raised from the dead and glorified, that you trust God, that you know you have a future in God. —1 Peter 1:18-21 The Message (MSG)

here is a very specific musical sound you hear on a recording that distinguishes the intensity of what or who you heard. That is true for Evangelist Timiney Figueroa. Once you hear her voice, you know there is no other; and guess what? She’s a New Yorker from Brooklyn, so we all can represent! The advantage she’s had in this music industry is nothing less than (in)credible. Let’s see. She’s the eldest daughter of Bishop Eric R. Figueroa, Sr. and Evangelist Doreen Figueroa, who are the pastors of New Life Tabernacle on Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn, NY (because there is another); the big sister of gospel recording artist Anaysha Figueroa-Cooper (Holy One), who sings with Kirk Franklin; and the sister of her newlywed brother Eric R. Figueroa, Jr. (the son-in-law to the late Bishop David C. Wallace). Evangelist Figueroa keeps family close, so much so that whenever she’s not on the road, she works closely in the ministry with the whole family at her home church—and it’s not an option. She’s the proud mother of three marvelously gifted and talented children, Quincy, Miles, and Ella—who are right there by her side (if you’ve heard Miles’ musical ability, you can attest it’s anointed as well). Talk about train up a child in the way, her parents knew by the time she was three she had an

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anointed musical gift with God’s hand attached to it. Not only did she sing about His love in her own record in 1993 called “You Light Up My Life” (yes, the Jesus version), she developed her sound with time and kept singing for God. Timiney developed a name for herself without landing her own CD, allowing her to minister with some of gospel music’s most notable artists. Timiney received her calling to preach the gospel, continuing to change the lives of others through song and the preached Word of God. Now, don’t be fooled, she’s been through some things. She was able to overcome and as founder and executive director of G.R.O.W. (Godly Remnant of Overcoming Women) inspires both natural and spiritual development in the lives of all women—a flourishing movement, that can GROW women, one choice at a time. Now, she’s ready to express herself and reinterpret the songs that made us notice and love her on one project, Timiney’s Journey. April 2019 The Positive Community

GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY

thepositivecommunity.com

April 2019

Vol. 20 No. 3

Publisher

Adrian A. Council, Sr.

Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells

Associate Editor R. L. Witter

Sales

Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. Marc Williams Burton Waddy NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR

Contributing Writers Patricia Baldwin Glenda Cadogan Fern Gillespie Derrel Jazz Johnson g.r. mattox Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi Rev. Theresa Nance

Photographers

Vincent Bryant Risasi Dias Regina Flemming Bob Gore Raymond Hagans Bruce Moore Wali Amin Muhammad Seitu Oronde Karen Waters Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr.

Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Maishman Media, LLC

Production Assistant April Davis

The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: info@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © The Positve Community Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive CommunityTM its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.

thepositivecommunity.com 58 The Positive Community April 2019

The Last Word BY R.L. WITTER

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TOOLS AND WEAPONS

y grandfather (Pop) was both an intellectual and spiritual man. Despite only standing 5’6” tall, he was one of the biggest men I’ve ever known. He was a Navy man and a former professional boxer, so he carried himself with a certain swagger. He was also kind and humble. While he spoke perfect French, calculated figures in mere seconds, quoted scripture backward and forward, and could knock a man down with one punch, he was never one to lord it over anyone and modeled both empathy and generosity for his fellow man. I recall sitting on Pop’s lap, reading My Book of Bible Stories when I was too young to read and understand the Bible. I always looked forward to spending time with my Pop, and Bible story time was even more special because I was learning about God and faith — it was both uplifting and inspiring. As I grew older, I attended weekly Bible study with Pop and Gram, and often several of their friends and neighbors. Gram and Pop’s close friends were “Uncle Ed” and “Aunt Dolores” while others were “Brother Davis” and “Sister Johnson.” Often, there would be an unfamiliar face or two at Bible study and those people were called “Mrs. Smith” or “Mr. Jones.” Eventually they might become “Brother and Sister So-and-So” if they continued to attend Bible study and Sunday services regularly, but regardless, they were always treated kindly and with respect when we saw them around town. Among the many lessons I learned during Sunday services, Bible studies, and just being in the company of my Pop, one stands out as possibly the most important. While at the supermarket one Sunday afternoon, we witnessed a woman dressed in her Sunday best being condescending and just

mean to a less-fortunate man. He was obviously intoxicated and had asked the woman for money. Instead of simply declining to give him the money and continuing on her way, she dressed him down calling him lazy, an embarrassment, and a heathen. She had even pulled her Bible from her purse to shake it at the man and further shame him. Pop walked over and greeted the woman politely before telling her, “I’ll take it from here,” and encouraging her to take her leave. He then greeted the man and spoke with him for a few moments before giving him a couple of dollars and an invitation to next week’s Bible study. As my Pop took my hand and we walked toward his car, he said to me quietly, “Faith, religion, and the Bible are powerful tools. Unfortunately, too many people use them to tear people down instead of building them up.” He continued, “If you’re using the Bible to hurt people, you’re using it wrong.” To this day, I pray I’m using my faith properly. Have you thought about that lately? Especially in a time such as this, are you using your faith as a tool or a weapon? April 2019 The Positive Community NA www.thepositivecommunity.com

montclairstateu Throughout Black History Month, Montclair State University answered former First Lady Michelle Obama’s call to #ShareBlackStories by highlighting noteworthy

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personal narratives of first-generation student leaders across our community.

SHANARD D. SEABROOKS ’19

In June 2015, I would never believe that graduating from high school would be such a big accomplishment in my family. When I entered college, I was a homeless student. Who would’ve known that my family would be evicted from our apartment exactly two weeks from graduating from high school? But the Lord had a plan! I trusted in Jesus knowing my current situation would not stop me but push me. In May 2019, I will be graduating from Montclair State University with a bachelor’s in International Business as a firstgeneration student. As a young black male living in Newark where drugs, gang affiliation and premature death is present, statistics say as an African-American male I would not make it. But God says “Not so.” Breaking the cycle of the lack of education in my family is an accomplishment and a blessing. I give God all of the credit! #BlackHistoryMonth #ShareBlackStories

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