Fall 2015 Legacy Magazine - UDC

FLORETTA DUKES-MCKENZIE

A TRIBUTE

2015 COMMENCEMENT

WHITE HOUSE SECRETARY OFFERS “LIFE LESSONS FOR SUCCESS”

UDC SIGNS HISTORIC AGREEMENT

HOLA! CUBA

The Magazine of the University of the District of Columbia

Leadership for the Future

University President Ronald Mason and Board Chair Embrace Bold “Journey to 2020” UDC RESEARCH, TRAINING AND SERVICE PORTFOLIO

TOPS $21 MILLION

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FALL 2015

DR. CLEVELAND L. DENNARD PLAZA The University of the District of Columbia’s Dennard Plaza offers an environmentally-friendly gathering place for social interaction. It enhances the campus eco-system and includes creative lighting and artistic water features.

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CONTENT FALL 2015 // VOLUME 1 NO. 2

THE MAGAZINE OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

DEPARTMENTS

PRESIDENT Ronald Mason, Jr., J.D.

4 Letter from the Chair

EDITOR-AT-LARGE Evola C. Bates Chief of Staff, Office of the President

5 By the Numbers

54

6 Student Writers

MANAGING EDITOR John Gordon, Jr. Director of Communications

7 Alumni’s Work

CO-EDITOR/WRITER Dianne Hayes Hayes & Associates Media Services

8 Comic Book Shines Light on Civil Rights Movement

CONTRIBUTORS Christopher Anglim, University Archivist Jonetta Rose Barras, Freelance Writer Susan Bodiker, Freelance Writer Denise Slaughter, Assistant to the Provost Adrienne Washington, Freelance Writer Eric Zedalis, Sports Information Director

10 Board of Trustees 16 Community College – Reclaiming the American Dream – I nspiring Students through

International Exchange

DESIGN THOR Design Studio www.thor.design

20 Commencement 2015

46 58

Life Lessons for Success

By John Gordon, Jr.

24 Faculty Dr. Mohamad Sepheri

By Staff Writer

28 A Tribute

FEATURES

42 Traditions

UDC Founders’ Day

By Dianne Hayes

60 Advancement

66 Alumni Affairs

Leading By Example

By Susan Bodiker

Floretta Dukes McKenzie

By Jonetta Rose Barras

30 UDC’s Land-Grant Mission

68 Faculty and Staff Notes

33 Homeland Security

70 Class Notes

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58

INTRODUCING RONALD MASON, JR.

HOLA! CUBA

REMEMBERING MALCOLM X: 50 YEARS AFTER THE AUDOBON BALLROOM

35 UDC Research, Training and Service Portfolio Tops $21 Million

72 UDC Foundation

BY JOHN GORDON, JR.

37 The Authors

74 In Memoriam

40 Accreditations

76 Athletics

BY DIANNE HAYES

BY JONETTA ROSE BARRAS

Gil Scott Scholarship

By Charlotte Fox

78 Arts ON THE COVER President Ronald Mason, Jr. and Board of Trustees Chair, Elaine Crider work together to implement Vision 2020 strategic plan.

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The Arts are Alive at UDC

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER TEP Photography CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Iwan Bagas Melvin Bogard Jay Morrow Tyler McCoy Rogers Barrington C. Scott Leslie Malone Portia Wiggins PRINTING Westland Printers The University of the District of Columbia is the only public university in the nation’s capital and the only urban land-grant institution in the United States. The University supports a broad mission of education, research and community service across all member colleges and schools, which include the Community College, College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business and Public Administration, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and the David A. Clarke School of Law.

www.facebook.com/UofDC @udc_edu

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LETTER FROM THE CHAIR

Firebirds Rise Again!

impeded the University’s ability to advance. sensitivity to the needs of students, faculty, and staff. He is a champion of student success and excellent in customer service. Equally important, Mr. Mason is dedicated to the

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University’s mission as a pacesetter in urban education, ensuring that it offers affordable

described as a large bird with ma-

and effective undergraduate, graduate, pro-

jestic plumage that emits a bright

fessional, and workplace education. The

red, orange, and yellow light, that

Board of Trustees is confident that we chose

represents a turbulent flame of the

well. President Mason gives us hope that we

past. In folklore, the Firebird is comparable to

are moving in the right direction to build

the Phoenix, rising from the ashes and project-

upon the legacy and vision of Myrtilla Miner

ing a narrative of survival and hope.

more than 160 years ago. With Mr. Mason at

versity of the District of Columbia, I sense an electric air of excitement that I have not felt before. I hear it in conversations with faculty, staff and students. Even visitors notice it. This new excitement, this electricity results from a shared belief and shared hope that the University of the District of Columbia is on the rise and, like its mascot, Firebird, it has survived turbulent times.

These feelings of bright possibility can be attributed to the arrival of Ronald Mason, Jr., J.D., the school’s 9th president, selected during an intensive national search that involved a review of 90 applications by a cross-section of the University stakeholders, including distinguished leaders in higher education, business and government. The Board of Trustees chose Mr. Mason because of his exemplary career. He is a proven, highly motivated, accomplished and exceptional professional, uniquely suited to assume leadership of the University.

Already, President Mason has demonstrated his ability to effect change at the University, shifting the lexicon to student success, excellence, and accountability. He is not afraid to tackle difficult issues that previously

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The University of the District of Columbia has embarked on a visionary transformation to become an academically competitive public university. These are some of the facts and figures that tell the UDC story.

He is moving deliberately, with purpose and

he Firebird is a mythical creature

When I step onto the campus of the Uni-

By The Numbers

Dr. Mason is a champion of student success and excellence in customer service.

He is dedicated to the University’s mission as a pacesetter in urban education that offers affordable and effective undergraduate, graduate, professional and workplace education.

the helm, there can be little doubt that the Firebird truly is on the rise, illuminating the landscape of public higher education in the District of Columbia, and around the world.

Don’t take my word for it. Read in this issue of Legacy Magazine, President Mason’s thoughts about his new role and his plans for the future. We also recognize the hardworking Board of Trustees and pay tribute to the late Floretta Dukes McKenzie, 2015 Distinguished Alumna of the Year. Faculty research, our Homeland Security Program, books written by members of our distinguished faculty, the University’s land-grant mission, and other exciting activities that have occurred in 2015 are all featured. I hope you enjoy this issue of Legacy Magazine.

Elaine A. Crider Board of Trustees Chair

no.7

NUMBER OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT RANKING IN CLINICAL TRAINING AMONG ALL U.S. LAW SCHOOLS

5100

105’

21 20,000 8 TONS 773

FACULTY RESEARCH PORTFOLIO IN EXCESS OF

$

APPROXIMATELY

MILLION

SQUARE-FOOT GREEN ROOF ON TOP OF BUILDING 44

THE HEIGHT OF THE NEW STUDENT CENTER’S TOWER

NEW STUDENT FALL ENROLLMENT

(33% INCREASE FROM LAST YEAR)

OF TOP QUALITY PRODUCE GROWN AT UDC RESEARCH FARM WWW.UDC. EDU

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STUDENT WRITERS

BY TIFFANY BRIDGET T AND OSIRIS REBOLLO

Student Government Association

bles- Gordon unveiled the work for his September art show entitled “Tesserae” at the University of the District

of Columbia (UDC), a room filled with fam-

(USGA), Joniece A. Barnes has

ily, friends, faculty members, and students

three goals for her presidency –

eager to witness his works applauded him.

restoring school pride and faith,

improving communication between students,

Undergraduate Student Government Association officers (left to right): Anjanette Shelby, Treasurer; Joniece

Tesserae is a word that means a small stone,

administration and staff, and facilitating activ-

Barnes, President; Tsholofelo A. Motshwane, Vice-President; and Mulenga Chileshe, Secretary.

or particle of glass. With over 30 art pieces on view, excitement filled the room as people

ities that will include all students.

witnessed first-hand the amazing portfolio of

“My administration began working to achieve these goals immediately. We have

the USGA's Student Events

ripped pieces of paper transformed into art

had reasonable success thus far in our efforts,

and Special Events (SASE)

masterpieces.

though not quite as much as we hope to achieve

committee believes that

Robles- Gordon said the process of creating

going forward,” said Barnes. One of those steps

building community is key

the art on view began years before the show.

began with student engagement with a “Chat

to student engagement. To

“Tesserae was the continuation of four pieces

and Chew,” a chicken and biscuit social event

date, the organization has

(the four long works on wood) I created in

at the beginning of the fall semester. It allowed

helped organize the back to

late 2010. At the time I'd been developing an

returning, and new students to meet the USGA

school week in September,

interest in fashion and wanted to apply the

executive board members and for the board to

which consisted of game

technique I was becoming comfortable in

identify future student leaders. “I am looking

day and pool party. SASE is

with dress forms. In July 2015 Daniel Venne

me. I admire these artists because of their

also working on having consistent events every

approached me about possibly having a solo

passion, depth of skill and their willingness

not want to graduate without having the next

USGA Treasurer Anjanette “Anjie” Shelby,

week. In addition it is focusing on more com-

show at UDC. I agreed and eventually decided

to share themselves with the world at large.”

group of leaders in place to continue to make

shares Barnes mandate for change. “I want to

munity outreach initiatives involving students,

to feature my 'fashionistas,' as I call them.

Robles-Gordon’s stepfather, Taiwo Iman,

UDC better,” she said.

be a change, you can't say you want things to

such as volunteering at soup kitchens, clothes

I use magazine paper as my pigment. For

recognizes the lengths his son undergoes in

drives, and participating in fitness events.

for the next group of leaders. We (USGA) do

PHOTO BY IWAN BAGAS

he New President of the University

hen alumnus Alanzo Ro-

PHOTO BY AUDREY LEW

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BY MELVIN BOGARD AND X AVIER BIAS

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Eager Crowd Applauds Alumni’s Work

PHOTO BY IWAN BAGAS

PHOTO BY JAY MORROW

Leading the Way to Change

to increase student pride.”

Barnes, a senior health education major

change without being there to see it change.”

source material I used magazines as well as

creating his masterpieces. “It takes a lot of

TOP: Faculty, students, and staff enjoy the art at

whose responsibilities includes, overseeing the

Shelby, a 51-year-old mother and business

For Kia Ray, Senior Class vice president

fashion blogs looking for basic silhouettes. I

patience, I sat with him during one of his

UDC’s Gallery 42. At left: CAS Dean Dr. April Massey.

executive officers and liaison between students

management major, had been out of school for

serving her peers is paramount. “A great leader

went about crafting specific feelings for each

sessions, creating these art pieces take hours.”

ABOVE: Installation of alumnus Alanzo Robles-

and administration, said, “If students do not

several years and is considered a non-traditional

also needs to be a great follower. I listen to

piece, exposed rigidity, whimsy, making sure

Art is very important to Robles-Gordon,

Gordon’s one-man show “Tesserae: Form & Function.”

want to participate in the process for change,

student. Her changes would start with asking

other students needs and how their needs can

each girl's pose matched her intent."

a vital part of his life. “Art is my stabilizer, my

LEFT: Mixed-media artist, Alanzo Robles-Gordon, ‘11

tell me and I will be that voice for you.”

for more classes to be available to those with

be best met and I take it back to whomever

Robles-Gordon takes his inspiration from

saving grace. Through art I communicate with

(BFA). “Art is my stabilizer, my saving grace. Through

Another accomplishment by Barnes and

busy lives. Shelby said she understands the

can rectify it.” Ray continued, “They (student

a host of sources. “My influences range from

myself, and the world while documenting my

art I communicate with myself and the world, while

her administration occurred during the 20th

challenges students face with a lack of available

body) have confidence in me to carry out the

fashion, 90's film and television, literature,

life. My self-expression takes the form of poetry,

documenting my life.”

Anniversary of the Million Man March on Oct.

classes. She believes this can be resolved by

mission of our senior class and to look out

daydreams, to deconstructions of intense

paper collage, and mixed-media sculpture.”

10th. Barnes said, “I'm proud to say that The

hiring more professors. With the right changes

for their best interests. What people need to

emotion. I love stumbling on old art magazines

Professor Daniel Venne, co-coordinator of

work is inspired, meticulously crafted, and

University of the District of Columbia was well

Shelby said that, “UDC can be the University

understand –staff and faculty – if students

and National Geographics. Artists such as

the art program, praised his former student’s

a joy to behold. His exquisite sense of color

represented during this event by our students.

where Dreams Come True.”

weren't here, there wouldn't be a need for

Salvador Dali, Geoffrey Holder, Frida Kahlu

efforts. “We are very proud to host this exhibi-

dazzles the eye and his innovative sense of

any of them either."

and Maynard James Keenan have influenced

tion by alumnus Alanzo Robles-Gordon. The

design speaks for itself."

These events, and others like them are designed

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Meanwhile, Jahwon E. Corbett, chair of

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Comic Book Shines Light on Civil Rights Movement

max on the steps of City Hall.

“Congressman John Lewis is a true advocate for justice,” says Shelley Broderick, Dean of UDC

Congressman John Lewis and Co-Author Andrew Aydin Discuss Book At UDC

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David A. Clarke School of Law. “We are thrilled to celebrate his life and work in 2015, during

he University of the District of

the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act

Columbia’s College of Arts and

for which he risked his life.”

Sciences, and the David A. Clarke

April Massey, Dean of the College of

School of Law and the presented

Arts and Sciences, adds that Lewis’ book

civil rights icon, Congressman John

chronicles his college days as a leader of the

Lewis as the as the featured speaker for the

Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee

spring semester “Big Read” lecture series on

(SNCC) and the youngest person to speak at

February 12th. The distinguished legislator

the historic 1963 March on Washington and

and his co-author Andrew Aydin discussed

expressed her excitement over the inclusion

their award-winning book, March as part of the

of such an amazing work in the College’s “Big Read” series.

University’s observance of African-American

book is rooted in Lewis’ personal story and

History Month.

reflects on the highs and lows of the broader

“This engagement extends in exceptional

“March” is a vivid first-hand account of

civil rights movement. It spans his youth in

ways the intent of our lecture series—the

Lewis’ lifelong struggle for civil and human

rural Alabama, his life-changing meeting with

use of literature to knot academic interest

rights, meditating in the modern age on the

the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., the birth of the

and civic engagement,” Massey says. We

distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow

Nashville Student Movement and their battle

are pleased to share the Congressman’s

and segregation. With illustrations by New

to tear down segregation through nonviolent

remarkable and inspiring story with a new

York Times bestselling artist Nate Powell, the

lunch counter sit-ins, building to a stunning cli-

generation of students.”

For more on the Arts, see pages 78-79.

1000 WORDS

We are all familiar with the old adage, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” which speaks to the power of photography to capture images that often transcend our ability to express with language. It’s through the photographer’s lens that we are able to see beyond the ordinary and to view our everyday surroundings from a different perspective. The following images not only illustrate the University’s physical aesthetics, but also capture the spirit of teaching and learning that exists in this place.

Congressman Lewis and his co-author Andrew Aydin sign autographs and chat with student photographer and senior IT major Eric Gray, Jr.

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Senior architecture major Theodore Wilhite is the

pride. “We need to make sure that students

student representative to the Board of Trustees.

see themselves as part of the vision and then get students to buy into the vision,” he said.

As a board member, Wilhite said, “I don’t vote for my personal preference, but will listen

Under their leadership—with an eye toward

to students” and advocate for what they want.

the future—everyone is on board to make the

Everything should be “student-oriented,”

University a first-class higher education insti-

Wilhite said, because any decisions that are

tution. Offering 49 undergraduate degrees and

made “must support academic excellence.”

certificates and 19 graduate degrees and certi-

Student-Focused Leadership

BY ADRIENNE T. WASHINGTON

A

fications, low-cost, excellent higher education

A New Focus

is what the city’s diverse population wants to

People with long-term knowledge of the

ensure job growth in the Washington region,

University’s operations report a more cohe-

the University’s leaders affirm.

sive Board of Trustees than those of the past.

“ Everything should be student-oriented, because any decisions that are made must support academic excellence.”

– “THEO” WILHITE

“Our board really thinks very deeply about costs, and is mindful that every dollar raised has an impact,” Castillo said. She added that the board encourages the administration to find ways to lessen the burden on students.

An impressive, straight shooter, Castillo says she wants to be sure that the trustees, the administration and the faculty recognize that “our ultimate customer-client is the student.”

“I come to the board of trustees with a focus on students,” she said. “I know that the decisions we make impact people.”

Castillo is now the national director of the Minority Business Development Agency of the

Over the years since UDC was chartered in

They seem eager to set aside old attitudes

1974, merging three previous institutions, the

and personal agendas and pull together to

likes to get involved in the details of problem

University of the District of Columbia has had

improve the University.

solving the issues.

U.S. Department of Commerce. She said she

periodic challenges. Inadequate funding and

“The University has been challenged by

All the board’s efforts are proven worth-

varying leadership in the vision for the University

reputation issues,” Crider said, but the goal is

while, Castillo said, especially when she wit-

among business and political leaders complicated

to provide better services and quality programs

its future and damaged its reputation. Now,

that will “ultimately gain the respect of higher

trustees have a clear plan of action to ensure that

education and the District of Columbia.”

nesses student successes that “really move That cohesiveness and cooperation “allows each member to voice their concerns,” and

you,” such as the performances during the recent UDC Founders’ Day program.

the University is a school in which students take

The UDC Board of Trustees is comprised of

“it liberates the issues that come up to make

As a UDC trustee, Castillo said she detects

pride and have a greater leadership role. Wilhite

members appointed from various stakeholder

the best decisions for the university and for

“an upward track” in the leadership changes

says it is especially important that students help

groups. In the past, the differing agendas of

what is in the best interest of the community,”

she has seen. “I think that we’re in a much

Crider added.

better place; going from the distinction of not

to define what is meant by “demand-driven”

those groups led to divisiveness, but the current

private tour of the new student

planning process. Members of the Board of

curriculum, degrees and programs that are

board “embraces that diversity,” Crider said.

center at the University of the Dis-

Trustees are particularly excited about their

referenced in the strategic plan.

trict of Columbia included a look at

“student-centered, demand driven” Vision

student Board of Trustee member

2020 strategic plan.

In addition to Dr. Crider, the board of trust-

just surviving but thriving.”

Making Tough Choices

“I have a very stressful job,” she said, “and

ees includes vice chair Christopher Bell, Dr.

Alejandra Y. Castillo, who has been a UDC

at the end of a long day, we get no remuneration

Students First

Gabriela Lemus, Reginald M. Felton, Jerome

trustee for more than two years, agrees.

[for] sometimes being at meetings for six hours;

Theodore “Theo” Wilhite’s office,

The strategic plan, the trustees say, is their

“This year, we’re going in with renewed pur-

Shelton, Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry, Major

“This board has not been afraid to make the

but [along] with my colleagues on the board,

which happens to be the largest among all of

roadmap to transform the nation’s only urban

pose, understanding our place and role as

Gen. Errol Schwartz, Jim W. Dyke, Alejandra

tough decisions,” she said. “We took care of

we bring all of our tools and resources to the

the trustees.

land-grant institution to a top-tier, world-class

student leaders,” said Wilhite, a senior archi-

Castillo, Theodore Wilhite, Dr. Anthony C.

the housekeeping issues and now we can see

table because we believe in this institution.”

school that, according to Crider, aims “to attract

tecture major who was elected by his peers to

Tardd, Joshua S. Wyner, Barrington Scott,

what the future can be,” which includes at-

students from all corners of the world.”

the Board of Trustees in May.

and Gwendolyn Hubbard Lewis. President

tracting new talent.

“And that’s as it should be,” noted Board Chair Dr. Elaine A. Crider, saying that Wilhite’s office could quickly become the center’s hub, a

The University of the District of Columbia—

“First and foremost, I identify with the

place where students can turn when they need

with its 5,100 students and its 257 full—and

mission of this institution and understand the

extra resources.

Ronald Mason is the ex-officio member as university president.

Those tough decisions, guided by the Vi-

city’s only public institution of higher learning

sion 2020 plan, included consolidating class-

“truly be integrated in the neighborhoods where it stands.”

part-time faculty – has entered a new era not

importance of making it affordable. I am proud

Crider said this board embraces a new

es and reducing majors, reducing staff and

In conversations with major leaders

only with new facilities but more importantly

of the University of the District of Columbia

style of leadership. It feels comfortable dis-

raising tuition to make the University more

and stakeholders at the University of the

with visionary leadership and a new president,

and proud of this city.”

agreeing without being disagreeable. This

“demand-driven” and sustainable in the future.

District of Columbia, you will hear a “stu-

Mr. Ronald Mason Jr., who has the support of

is a board that respects one another,” she

Castillo said that the trustees do not make

dents-first focus” about the University’s

the 15-member Board of Trustees.

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One of Wilhite’s biggest goals is bringing the students together to increase campus

proudly stated.

Acknowledging the diversity of the District, Castillo would like to see the campuses of the

decisions lightly on troublesome issues.

Community Outreach Trustee Barrington Scott, an alumni representative to the board, also wants to see

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES

member and vice chair of the Alexandria

for excellence in a several categories. “It was

City School Board.

powerful, and our pride and energy fed off each other,” he said. “It raised our morale and

She was the only board member to vote

empowered our student leaders.”

against the tuition increase because so many students have trouble paying current costs.

Looking Toward the Future

Serving students is her top priority, and she

more collaborative outreach activities that would “bring the DC community together,” such as the Parklawn Festival hosted jointly with the University.

“I like the direction we’re going in with improvements on campus, a new student center and great outreach programs,” he said.

Scott said he brings expertise on understanding the dynamics of the District to the board and a clarity of vision. “People look at the University as making a positive impact not only on DC, but globally while keeping its obligation to the African- American community as well, since it is an HBCU.”

“ We want to see the University of the District of Columbia respected not only as the premier public institution for the nation’s capital, but also as a model that draws students from all corners of the world.”

is looking forward to the university’s imple-

Wilhite pointed out that “students who

mentation of proposed innovations, including

worked through the trenches” have wit-

online curriculum and distance learning.

nessed a “360-degree change” in some of the

To that end, she is enthusiastic about fol-

university administrators and leaders’ rela-

lowing [UDC’s] Vision 2020 plan which is in

tionships with student leaders. Now they feel

line with the Department of Education and

their input is more welcome, and they want

the White House best practices models, and

to get involved and “feel active.”

prepares students for jobs in the 21st century.

Wilhite says “I am determined to foster

She plans to pay particular attention to the

relationships with other students across

relationship with the UDC Community College

the board, and to improve communications bodes well for the University’s future.

to “see that it is in line with where the University

Wyner says, noting that the former president

is going.”

of Jackson State University was able to double

“We’re very fortunate,” said Van Dyke. “I

college, to the law school.” In the past, he

from the flagship campus, to the community

As one of 35,000 alumni, Lewis says, “I

graduation rates at that school in a few years.

think this board is reflective of the overall focus

said, some students have felt slighted and

want to support the alumni association and

“UDC has good things going for it, but we

and sends a clear message about our aspirations

not included.

give them what they feel they need to be excited

all must acknowledge that we can do even

for the future and the potential we have for our

The other items on Wilhite’s agenda include

about supporting the University.”

better, and we have to ask ourselves whether

community college program and the entire

finding ways to provide affordable tuition,

the students got what they came for—a strong

University. We’re looking forward to taking it

housing and transportation for students as

life after they leave.”

to a whole new level.”

the cost of living in “one of the most expensive

Student Success Joshua Wyner, a trustee board member for

During his trustee tenure, Wyner says,

about 18 months, is the vice president for

“I’ve been really impressed with the board and

Vision 2020

the College Excellence Program at the Aspen

each of my colleagues’ commitment to doing

Approved by the Board of Trustees last spring

body includes older, working or low-in-

Institute which is focused primarily on aca-

what’s right for the school and students.” With

after a university-wide planning process,

come students. She said she would like to

demic achievement. “Leading higher educa-

a new president and the board, he added, “our

“UDC’s Vision 2020 is a “forward-focused

see a change in how students are statistically

tion institutions to improve student success

leadership team is well positioned to improve

“Roadmap for Renewal, Innovation, Success

judged as being successful. The main criteria

is what I do for a living,” he said.

student outcomes; that’s why we’re around.”

cities in the nation” continues to rise.

Dr. Crider said UDC’s unique student

and Sustainability” that provides a compre-

for success currently focuses on a student’s

“I’m from DC, and the notion that the city

Wyner pointed out that three-fourths of

hensive plan “to fundamentally improve and

ability to finish college in four years, which

needs a very strong public institution of higher

students in higher education attend public

sustain higher education for the residents of

she believes is unfair.

education is incredibly important. We have

institutions, including community colleges,

the District of Columbia.”

to make sure we’re doing the best we can on

yet 75 percent of them are “under resourced.”

As a public, historically black, and land-

from high school without any of the daily

behalf of the students and the local economy.”

“Community college, that’s where the

grant institution, the University’s responsibility

stresses of life,” Crider said. “Therefore, it

Much of his work focuses on improving stu-

America of tomorrow will be. These are the

is to build a diverse generation of competitive,

takes longer to earn a degree for these working

dent success at community colleges nationwide

students we will rely on to be leaders of their

civically engaged scholars and leaders.

parents, often holding down minimum-wage

like the University of the District of Columbia.

communities, to be voters, to be good parents,

Even though UDC is an HBCU, Wilhite

jobs and juggling multiple aspects of their lives.

The organization is also involved in college

and if you believe in the promise of education,

said, “We’re not using the term to be exclu-

But they have made a commitment to their

representative on the board of trustees, says,

presidential searches, so it is no surprise that

we have to challenge ourselves to do even better

sive, but focus on how we are inclusive and

education, so instead of not being viewed as

“The University was here for me when I needed

he was on the search committee which picked

by them,” he said.

part of America, and understand our role in

successful, these students should be celebrated.”

it. I wouldn’t be here today without the knowl-

UDC’s new president, Mr. Mason.

Raising money for student affairs is one of his goals. “I always wanted to give back to this university.”

He also sees his trustee service as a tribute to his mother, Anna Frazier Scott, who graduated from Miner Teachers College in 1952 and passed away earlier this year.

Alumni Pride Gwendolyn Hubbard Lewis, also an alumni

– DR. ELAINE CRIDER

Ten-year veteran trustee Jim Van Dyke was

a global world.”

“Our students are not freshly graduating

“We want to see the University of the Dis-

edge, skills and preparation I received at UDC.”

“I’m so delighted that Mr. Mason has

once included on Washingtonian magazine’s list

Wilhite wants to capitalize on some recent

trict of Columbia respected not only as the

Lewis is founder and executive director

joined us as a leader considering what he

of “150 Most Powerful People” in the DC region.

successes with the student government that

premier public institution for the nation’s

of the Concerned Citizens Network of Alex-

accomplished, and my greatest hope is to see

He says the background and commitment of

tripled its delegation to the 2015 NASAP Lead-

capital, but also as a model that draws students

andria (Va.). She has previously served as

a similar improvement in student success,”

Josh Wyner and his fellow board members

ership Institute, where they were recognized

from all corners of the world.”

12

FA L L 2 01 5

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13

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

UDC Board of Trustees 2015-16

A special thanks to Mary Thompson and Joseph Askew

The University of the District of Columbia’s Board of Trustees is comprised of an accomplished group of professionals who represent

for their years of dedicated

a diverse mix of expertise in fields including education, government, business, law, and community leadership. The 15-member board

service to the Board of Trustees.

is responsible for University governance.

OFFICERS

MEMBERS

Dr. Elaine A. Crider

Ms. Alejandra Castillo

Mr. Ronald Mason, Jr.

Chair

(Esq.)

(Esq.), Ex-Officio

We owe our interim president,

Dr. Anthony C. Tardd

Dr. James E . Lyons, a hearty thank you for his leadership in stabilizing the University, guiding us through the development of Vision 2020 and launching our self-study process. He will always be remembered by our University family.

Mr. Christopher Bell (Esq.)

Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry

Major Gen. Errol Schwartz

Vice Chair

(Student Trustee)

Dr. Gabriela Lemus

Mr. James W. Dyke, Jr.

Secretary

(Esq.)

Mr. Reginald M. Felton

Ms. Gwendolyn Hubbard

Treasurer

Lewis*

14

Mr. Theodore Wilhite

FA L L 2 01 5

Mr. Barrington D. Scott*

Mr. Joshua S. Wyner (Esq.)

Mr. Jerome Shelton* *Alumni-elected representative

WWW.UDC. EDU

15

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

• High-quality associate degree and certificate programs designed as a direct pathway into middle-skill jobs, earning a living wage; • Providing open access to a college education; • Serving as a community anchor, the partner of choice for education, workforce training, and economic development initiatives; working closely with business and industry partners, government agencies and community organizations; • Ensuring transparency and accountability with regard to resource allocation and return on investment; • Publishing appropriate mission-based

UDC-CC: Reclaiming the American Dream

Exploration At its very core, higher education is about workforce development. A college education prepares an individual to enter the workforce with varying levels of competency, from associate’s degrees to professional degrees and doctorates. It is also about exploration. Exploring

BY JOHN GORDON, JR.

our world, our environment, and our humanity. UDC-CC is incredibly fortunate to have the nation’s capital to explore. Faculty and students

T

use the resources of D.C. to explore career op-

We help our students get connected through internship and service learning opportunities.

success indicators utilizing vetted, reliable, predictive analytics and data.

UDC-CC believes in serving students first.

The goal is to provide students with high-quality classes, relevant curriculum, exceptional instructors, first-class customer service, and facilities that are safe, comfortable and that inspire learning. In the broadest sense, the focus is on student completion and success rates, as well as high-post graduation rates of income and employment.

he University of the District of Colum-

staff that are second-to-none. To work at a

where none previously existed. The programs

tions, global citizenship, history, philosophy,

bia Community College (UDC-CC)

community college is a vocation—a calling. Our

are relevant, dynamic, and engage students at

government, art, science and the world of pos-

hensive community college. Our future goal is

is one of the nation’s youngest com-

faculty and staff demonstrate their commitment

the center of the teaching and learning expe-

sibilities outside the classroom.

to become a first choice institution for District

munity colleges, but one of the most

to our student success on a daily basis.”

rience. UDC-CC is committed to preparation, exploration and service.

significant and uniquely structured

Community colleges are uniquely American

on a campus offering bachelor’s degrees and

institutions; they are our contribution to the

master’s degree programs, and a law school.

higher education landscape. Research universi-

Preparation

“We are currently an emerging compre-

residents as an integral component of the

Service

UDC system.”

As students gain discipline mastery and

A 21st Century Urban Comprehensive Community College.

explore new potential and possibilities for

Accredited as a branch campus of the Uni-

higher education lies in its ability to serve.

UDC-CC’s value as a public system of

As an integral component of the University

ties were first organized in Germany; residential

At UDC-CC, students are prepared for life

themselves, it becomes critical for them to

versity of the District of Columbia, the

The UDC System includes a service-oriented

of the District of Columbia system, our mis-

colleges were founded in France and England; and

and upward social mobility. The goal is to

understand the concept of service—giving

plan is to continue to develop programs

land-grant University, a social justice law

sion is to provide open access to high-quality

community colleges were founded in the United

ensure that students are prepared for seam-

back, making their world a better place. As

and services that will enable it to become

school, and a comprehensive community

affordable education that leads to a B.S. degree

States in the early 20th century. The concept, as

less transition into aligned degree programs

service learning has been a staple at the Uni-

a full-service comprehensive community

college. United as a system, it’s destined to

at the university or entry into middle-skill

it was envisioned in the Truman Commission

at UDC, with an understanding that time and

versity, it is a new option for UDC-CC. Ser-

college. As a 21st Century Urban Com-

become a strong center of innovation and

employment earning a living wage. D.C. res-

Report of 1947, was to create a college serving

resources are precious commodities for stu-

vice Learning integrates community service

prehensive Community College, UDC-CC

strength in a city that is rapidly transforming

idents are served through programs that are

the needs of democracy and the needs of the

dents. Consequently, UDC-CC is redesigning

within programs, providing students the op-

serves the intellectual, vocational, civic

itself into a trend-setting municipality. The

offered in Wards throughout the city.

citizenry grounded in the local community. In

programs to include promising new pedago-

portunity to earn college credit while volun-

and social needs of District residents by

UDC System will produce well-educated

“UDC-CC students are remarkable,” said

the last half century, community colleges have

gies with a keen focus on learner engagement

teering in the community. This type of ped-

providing services and programs built into

citizens, whose skills and adaptive thinking

Dianna G. Phillips, Provost of UDC Commu-

grown to become a vital link providing the op-

and accelerated discipline mastery.

agogy emphasizes critical thinking, personal

the fabric of city neighborhoods. Fully

acumen will ensure their intellectual devel-

nity College. “As a whole they are intelligent,

portunity for upward mobility for more than half

tenacious, and talented. They attend UDC-CC

the undergraduates in America today.

”We help our students get connected to their

reflection, civic engagement, and teaches a

formed, UDC-CC will be identified by sev-

opment and enable their competitiveness in

chosen career fields through internship and

heightened sense of community awareness

eral distinctive features including:

the marketplace, providing economic stability

because they understand the value of a high-qual-

UDC-CC was founded to uphold the ideal

service learning opportunities,” Phillips said.

and engagement. In essence, Service Learn-

• High-quality associate degree programs

for future generations—a gateway to upward

ity affordable education and they are determined

of open access to higher education. It serves an

When faculty and students are excited about

ing provides an opportunity for us to give

that align with and allow students to transition

mobility—and allowing the middle-class to

to succeed. Additionally, we have a faculty and

ascendant population, providing opportunity

back and inspire the next generation.

into UDC bachelor’s program;

re-claim the American Dream.

16

FA L L 2 01 5

teaching and learning, anything is possible.

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17

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Inspiring a New Generation of Students through International Exchange

to help enhance the center to develop both

equipped and more competitive when applying

and Innovation if a partnership is created by

current and future business leaders of Haiti.

for career and business opportunities.”

both universities.”

The CEI provides a range of business devel-

“I gain so much more than I pour into a

opment services. It offers training for local

Long-Lasting Effects

country,” Dr. McCollum says. “On this trip, I

consultants and analysts, facilitates businesses

Haiti promises to have a profound effect on all

gained a lot from sharing in this cultural and

transitioning from the informal to the formal

of its visitors. DeQuan Palmer was so inspired

educational experience with my Business

economy, and provides advanced managerial

by his visit to Haiti, he has committed to join-

student, DeQuan Palmer. It was wonderful

training. From classroom training to hands-

ing Dr. McCollum on future trips to Haiti. “The

seeing his eyes light up when we entered Haiti.

on-case studies, the CEI gives entrepreneurs

lasting effect is giving. When you give, you

He had many questions about the culture, the

the skills necessary for businesses to succeed.

receive,” Dr. McCollum explains. “By giving

education, the values, and the economy. It was

r. Walter McCollum, Associate Profes-

there are many students from different walks

“Creating a student exchange partnership will

and sharing, we are sowing the seeds of social

also intriguing to see him try to calculate the

sor of Business at UDC Community

of life, with unique experiences, and from dif-

be a win-win for both UDC and Quisqueya

change. It is very important for students to see

gourde exchange rate to the U.S. dollar. This

College, visited Quisqueya Universi-

ferent countries. When students are afforded

University” Dr. McCollum says. “Students from

the giving and sharing concept in action.”

was a life altering experience for Palmer that

ty, Port au Prince, Haiti, to explore

the opportunity to gain cultural awareness

both countries will be exposed to a heightened

“I feel more encouraged to go back to the

he will always remember. The Haitians have

opportunities to establish a student

by travelling to another country to engage in

cultural experience that they would not have

United States and finish my degree after vis-

nothing in many cases, but all are joyful and

exchange program so UDC students will have an

the culture firsthand, their lives are impacted

gotten in their own country. Additionally,

iting Haiti,” explains Palmer. “I would like to

peaceful. I’ve made a lifelong commitment to

opportunity to experience the richness of the

forever. This was the case with DeQuan Palm-

students will be introduced to an educational

come to Haiti for a semester to take classes

impact social change in Haiti and will continue

Haitian cultural and educational experience.

er. He was able to attend meetings with Dr.

experience that will help them become better

and earn a certification in Entrepreneurship

to share this experience with my students.”

When an earthquake struck Haiti on Jan.

McCollum at Quisqueya University in Haiti

12, 2010, it changed the lives of more than 3.5

and observe how serious students are about

million people. Dr. Walter McCollum has been

their education. He also had the opportuni-

leading a cultural and educational delegation of

ty to meet other college students and learn

doctoral students to Haiti for the past five years

from their experiences and culture. This is

to effect positive social change in the lives of the

priceless for a student who has never travelled

Haitian people. During Spring Break this year,

abroad before. Palmer visited a children’s

he took one of his UDC Community College

orphanage; seeing how children, who have

Business students, DeQuan Palmer, with him

no families, live with very little resources. “I

to Haiti to be exposed to culture in the poorest

think when students from the United States

country in the Western hemisphere. Palmer

can experience an impoverished country, they

had never been outside of the United States

become a little more grateful for what they

This summer four University of

and was in awe with the commitment Haitian

have,” says Dr. McCollum.

the District of Columbia students

D

UDC STUDENTS EXPLORE GREAT WALL OF CHINA AND BEYOND STAFF WRITER

in China—a financial commitment valued between $1.2 and $5 million dollars. All studies are also credit-bearing.

The University of the District of Columbia students had an opportunity to participate in a special two-week study program utilizing part of a 400-scholarship award to students in Congressional Black Caucus districts by the Chinese government.

The two-week study program was sponsored by the China-United States Exchange Foundation (CUSEF), and two hosting Chinese universities: Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) in

students have for earning an education. Palmer

Dr. McCollum met with the Director,

indicated, “It is amazing how Haitian students

Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

will do anything to earn a quality education

(CEI), Etzer Emile, at Quisqueya University to

Scholarship Network a consortium of 42 Historically Black Colleges

and some students in the United States don’t

discuss possible opportunities of partnering

and Universities (HBCU).

Beijing; and Hangzhou Wanxiang Polytechnic (HWXP) in Hangzhou.

During their study program, University of the District of Columbia

were awarded scholarships to

students participated in classes studying the Chinese language and

travel to China through the China

their history, economy and culture.

In addition to visiting Beijing, Hangzhou and Shanghai, UDC students toured historic sites in China, including the Great Wall.

value education.” Haiti’s educational system is

Dr. Walter McCollum (left) and Associate’s Business

with UDC to establish a student exchange

not equitable for everyone, and is designed to

degree student DeQuan Palmer (Center) visit Haiti .

program. The university officials in Haiti

mentation of 1,000 scholarships awarded to HBCUs by the

2008 by Mr. C.H. Tung, former Chief Executive of Hong Kong and

The Network was formed in 2014 to facilitate the imple-

The China–United States Exchange Foundation was founded in

are very excited and eager to have continued

Chinese government, and was announced in November 2013

current Vice Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative

pay for an education in primary and secondary

young men to earn an education, because

discussions for such a partnership. This would

by China’s top government official in charge of education, Vice

Congress for the People’s Republic of China.

school, unlike the United States where students

they are the future leaders to change the face

provide an opportunity for UDC Business stu-

Premier Liu Yandong.

are afforded a free public education. Due to the

of their country. Without an education, they

dents to take accelerated courses at Quisqueya

cost for Haitians to earn an education, many

will have no power to effect change in Haiti,”

University for a semester and earn a Certificate

lations firm a specializing in Strategic Public Relations between

to improve communications and enhance understanding between the

people remain illiterate because they do not

says Dr. McCollum.

in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. The

the United States and China and based in Washington, D.C., and

peoples of China and the United States.

perpetuate illiteracy. Students in Haiti have to

Wilson Global Communications, an international public re-

The Foundation seeks to foster a strengthened and improved relationship between the United States and China, and was established

Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

representative to the China-United States Exchange Foundation in

Cultural Awareness

at Quisqueya University has been backed by

Hong Kong, manages and coordinates activities of the program in

between the public policy arena, think tanks, academia, media and

Haiti by supporting young men between the ages

Cultural awareness is important in the edu-

both former Presidents Clinton and Bush.

partnership with the Ministry of Education in Beijing, China.

business communities of both countries, and launched a special

of 16-25 through mentorship and educational

cational process. In most classrooms in col-

The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund recently made

opportunities. I am paying for several Haitian

leges and universities in the United States,

a $914,000 grant to Quisqueya University

have access to resources to pay for an education.

“I have made a long-term commitment to

18

FA L L 2 01 5

The 4-year scholarship commitment covers the cost of tuition, room and board for 1,000 American students from HBCUs to study

To accomplish this goal, the Foundation promotes open dialogue

initiative in the U.S. with Wilson Global in 2010 to develop inclusive program opportunities for diverse Americans in China.

WWW.UDC. EDU

19

COMMENCEMENT 2015

served as president of Fisk University. While on a League of Nations trip in 1930, a Liberian chief named Jeh saved his grandfather’s life.

His father, Jeh Vincent Johnson, is a well known architect.

Fortunately, the younger Jeh’s parents ignored that counselor’s advice, somehow getting him into Morehouse College. There he began experiencing critical life lessons, including, “You have it within you to do more than you know—mentally and physically. “I am living proof,” he told UDC graduates and

From Mediocrity to a Man On Fire

White House Secretary Inspires Graduate with “Life Lessons” for Success

BY JOHN GORDON JR.

H

others in the audience. going nowhere. “You are looking at somebody

“In my freshman year I had a 1.8 GPA (Grade

who was a C and D student. A ‘C’ growing up in

Point Average). The first semester of my soph-

my house was a gift.

omore year, I had a 3.0 average. It helped that I

“The only time in my entire life that I heard my mother utter a four-letter word was when

got the car my dad promised. The second semester my average was 3.5.”

she got my report card,” Johnson continued,

“The first semester of my junior year my

adding that a high school counselor advised his

GPA was 4.0. The second semester it was 4.0.

mother, “Don’t think about college for your son.”

My senior year it was a 4.0,” Johnson said to

That conclusion seemed logical. Johnson

applause from the audience. “I arrived a boy

never successfully completed math beyond the

and left a man on fire. Someone with self con-

3. Sixty percent of life is trying—no one get the job or wins the race without being willing to try first.

growing up, the two lived across the street

4. The key to advancement is doing everything you can at each step along the way, with energy, excellence and a smile.

5. Look for mentors; we all need mentors. Seek out mentors; do not assume they will seek you out.

6. Treat others as you would have them treat you. Treat everyone with the courtesy and respect that they deserve.

7 Always do the right thing; the right thing can be the hard thing. The right thing is not the expedient thing.

10th grade. “I took 9th grade math in 9th grade

fidentce who believed he could do anything.”

and flunked. I took it again in 10th grade and

Johnson aimed to share that fire and the

indirectly supervising more than

authority. That road to power and prestige

passed. I took 10th grade math in 11th grade

passion it fuels. Interim President James E.

8. Consider a career in public service.

200,000 federal workers involved

was not smoothly paved, however.

and passed. I took 11th grade math in 12th grade

Lyons, Sr., told those gathered at the Walter

and flunked the New York State Regency exam,

E. Washington Convention Center, that after

9 Honor your family; never forget what they have done for you.

but graduated.

receiving the invitation to serve as the com-

cyber security, while controlling a $38.2 billion

in his commencement speech, unspooling 10

“And, I didn’t care.” That attitude seems

mencement speaker, the man who has his finger

budget. Jeh Charles Johnson, appointed in

lessons learned and wisdom gained, he worried

perplexing considering his lineage: His grand-

on the pulse of this country’s security during an

December 2013 by President Barack Obama

his parents and convinced a few folks that he was

father, Charles S. Johnson, a sociologist also

age of international terrorism, called asking if

FA L L 2 01 5

“I no longer pretend to know what’s on

of that fact,” said Johnson, who is married

Homeland Security, is a man with clout and

As Johnson told the 2015 graduating class

mattered to them.

2. You must make your own mistakes but you must learn from those mistakes.

as the fourth secretary of the Department of

of the University of the District of Columbia

wanted to hear what was on their minds; what

the minds of young people. I have two col-

ment in the president’s cabinet,

in everything from immigration,

he could meet some of the students. Johnson

1. You have it within you to do more than you know—mentally and physically.

e leads the third largest depart-

to emergency response, secret service, and

20

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM JEH CHARLES JOHNSON

10. Follow the rules and you will see and do great things in your post graduate life that you can’t possibly comprehend today.

lege-aged kids who repeatedly remind me to Susan DiMarco, a dentist by profession; from each other. But he often has joked that it took three years of dental appointments to convince her to go on a date.

“I come from the era of Aretha, Otis, Dionne, Diana, Luther, Smoky, Curtis, Marvin, Jackie, Sam and Dave. I am talking to you all about the 1950s and 1960s,” continued Johnson. “My kids say Dad that music is from your time. Now I find my son listening to the very same thing and take pride in saying my time is your time.”

Translation: There will come a point in students’ development when generational differences will not matter and where the advice being given will prove relevant. To think otherwise might be a mistake. But offering Lesson #2, Johnson said “You must make your own mistakes. But you must learn from them.”

“Neither I nor anyone else can teach you to avoid mistakes. You will make your own bad choices and investments,” he said before listing a few possibilities: “Those uncomfortable shoes you bought for today,” drawing laughter from the crowd.

WWW.UDC. EDU

21

Undoubtedly, Johnson made a few of his

he became the first African American elected

race without being willing to try first.” He

own, as evidenced by his initial academic ac-

partner at the law firm of Paul,Weiss,Rif-

urged students to perform each task in their

tions. But after he left Morehouse, he attended

kind,Wharton & Garrison LLP. From 2009

post-graduate lives with “energy, excellence

Columbia Law School, went on to become an

through 2012, he was general counsel of the

and a smile.” Seek out mentors, treat others

assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District

Department of Defense. President Obama

as you would have them treat you and to “con-

of New York, and General Counsel of the Air

pulled him out of retirement.

sider a career in public service,” he continued,

Force during President Bill Clinton’s admin-

“Sixty percent of life is trying,” John-

calling out John Lake, II, who received an MS

istration. When he left government in 2001,

son said. “No one gets the job or wins the

in Homeland Security and was one of the top

1000 WORDS

15 out of 5,650 cadets being commissioned this year; he will serve as a “cyber war officer in the Army cyber command.”

Two lessons shared by Johnson appeared invested with extra importance: “Always do the right thing. Be honest with people, never lie. Most of us are lousy at being deceptive.”

Not doing the right is “corrosive on your own dignity, your own spirit, your own feeling of your self-worth.”

Among those right things is honoring your family: “Your parent, your children, your grandparents, your brothers and sisters. Never forget what they have done for you.” Johnson certainly has not.

As he ended his speech, he returned to connections but also reminded graduates of the distance that has been traveled by the country, UDC alumna Reverend Rosetta Bryson delivered the 2015 Commencement Invocation (left); Respected clinical

and specifically African Americans. “My father

and industrial psychologist Dr. Edwin J. Nichols (right) received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

is 84 years old; he graduated from college 62 years ago. When he was born his grandfather, an emancipated slave, was still alive. In the short span of his life he has seen the advent of the TV, color TV, the word processor…the Internet, the IPod, the Iphone, the Ipad, defeat of the Nazi Germany, collapse of the Soviet Union, the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965…and a black man in the Oval Office.”

Johnson said his mother, now 82 years old, grew up on Maryland Ave. in Northeast Washington, D.C. and still recalls with excitement seeing President Franklin Delano Roosevelt ride past her in an open car with the dog and secret service agents. “She has lived long enough to see her C and D son become a protectee of the United States Secret Service.

National League for Nursing CEO, Dr. Beverly Malone (middle) was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science Degree; Senior Class President, Leon Lockett (right) presented the 2015 Class gift.

22

FA L L 2 01 5

“Today,” Johnson continued, “you face the rising sun and a new day begun.”

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23

FACULTY

School of Business and Public Administration: Dr. Mo’ is In It to Win It Dr. Mohamad Sepehri is the new dean of the School of Business and Public Administration.

UDC’s Center for Urban Entrepreneurship (CUE).

The objective of The Center for Urban Entrepreneurship is to inspire and guide students and the community at large to recognize and appreciate the value of enterprise.. The center will provide educational guidance and coaching services to help start-ups and small/ family business owners succeed.

In the early stage of its operation, the center is seeking up to $10 million in capital to endow its operations to achieve its stated goals and objectives.

The center’s mission is to enhance and foster

BY STAFF WRITER

G

With more emphasis on student entrepreneurship, Dean Sepehri is also excited about

awareness about the integral role that entrepreneurship plays in our society and economy.

Dr. Mo has a unique combination of academic and business experience, with an extensive background in global business operations.

university and the country being tops in the global marketplace.

“We can’t say ‘we’re not going to win, so why start.’ No, we have to try.”

Clearly, Dr. Mo’ has a passion for international business collaboration and relationships and a history of building them. He has a unique combination of academic and business experience, with extensive background in strategic management/leadership and broad experience in international and global business operations.

Dr. Sepehri has a Triple-major Ph.D. in Management, Higher Education Administration, and Strategic International and Political Economy from Indiana University, Bloomington.

He says he started out working with computers before going to school and launching

enial Dr. Mohamad Sepehri tells

accreditations. “Such accreditations will en-

reaccreditation from the Association to Ad-

It plans to generate peer–reviewed research,

his academic career. In 1989 he went to JU

everyone — colleagues, students

hance the quality and reputation of the SBPA

vance Collegiate Schools of Business in 2009

invite visiting entrepreneurial scholars, and to

as an assistant professor of Management &

and visitors alike — “Just call me

and UDC by leading to greater national and

and 2014 respectively for that HBCU.

play an important leadership role in growing

International Business, and served as division

‘Dr. Mo’.”

international visibility, an increase in quality

When Dr. Mo’, an avid sports fan who

the entrepreneurship ecosystem in the District

chair twice, before becoming the associate dean

This informality might seem

research and scholarship faculty, and more

sometimes speaks in a coach’s metaphors,

unusual for such an esteemed educator, but

opportunities for global outreach,” he wrote.

resigned from JU after 26 years of service, his

Garnering numerous accolades and awards

the new dean of the School of Business and

“In addition, these accreditations will en-

colleagues gave him a rousing sendoff that

during his career obviously adds to Dean Sepeh-

Public Administration at the University of the

tice new students to enroll in the programs at

included awarding him a custom made ath-

ri’s confident demeanor that these goals can

District of Columbia says, “I’m always a little

SBPA. They will open the doors for new joint

letic jersey with his name and a number on it,

be reached.

on the funny side.”

and collaborative programs with other inter-

which they immediately retired in his honor.

national universities and programs.”

“Symbolically, it meant a lot to me,” he said.

Then he adds, “But I’m the most serious

of Columbia and beyond.

“Everybody knew ‘Dr. Mo’ in Jacksonville.

I was very comfortable there,” he said. Still, he

Some talk a good game, but Dr. Mo’ can

The school also wrote a farewell notice

wanted the challenge of working in Washington,

prove that he’s got the requisite top-player

that read, “Sepehri will be remembered for

D.C., and bringing his expertise to UDC in which,

The School of Public and Business Ad-

stats to walk the walk. “I’m new here, but I’m

his calm demeanor and sense of humor, along

he says, “I saw excellent potential.”

ministration maintains accreditation by the

not new to the game; I don’t think I can do this,

with his ability to be a person of high integrity

Accreditation Council for Business Schools

I know I can because I have,” he says.

and personal ethics.”

person when it comes to achieving excellence and top-tier accreditation.”

and Programs (ACBSP) while the school is submitting its report for initial accreditation

Even so, “I know I can’t do it alone; it takes teamwork.”

With a nod of confidence, he says, “I have patience, persistence and passion, and I don’t

Speaking of ethics, Dean Sepehri intends

give up easily. Once you believe in yourself,

to add supplementary ethics courses to the

students will believe in you and the community will believe in you, and we can all claim victory.”

of the Master of Public Administration by the

Under his leadership as associate dean

SBPA curriculum in order to bolster the

Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs,

at Jacksonville University’s Davis College of

school’s bid for higher accreditation. “Eth-

and Administration (NSPPA). Dean Sepehri

Business and director of the Graduate Busi-

ics are part of the vision” of creating future

“We cannot let our guards down; others

wrote in the summer SBPA newsletter that he

ness Programs, Dean Sepehri achieved and

business leaders, as the UDC’s Vision 20-20

are really competitive, and we have to prepare

the District of Columbia to hold a national news conference that launched the agency’s 2015 Volunteer Income

intends on maintaining and pursuing varying

maintained the top tier of accreditation and

strategic plan states.

ourselves to win,” Dr. Mo’ says, referring to the

Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

24

FA L L 2 01 5

Add competitive to his list of attributes.

IRS Commissioner John Koskinen selected the School of Business and Public Administration at the University of

WWW.UDC. EDU

25

FACULTY

and then director of the Graduate Business Programs in 2009. In that latter role, he helped transform the graduate school, which expanded to offer a Doctor of Business Administration, along with the accelerated one-year Master of

“ In order for an institution to survive, every part of it must be able to grow and change.” – DR. SANDRA G. YATES

Business Administration and Master of Science in Organizational Leadership.

In the evolution of the Executive MBA program, Sepehri initiated the annual international

This includes attracting and hiring business

Dr. Mo’ takes the helm from Dr. Sandra

trip to meet with corporations aboard. Last

professionals and doctoral faculty, which

G. Yates, who is retiring after her 18-month

year the JU students set up a ticket marketing

costs money. For example, SBPA’s accounting

tenure as acting dean of SBPA and more than

program for movie theatres in Italy; the most

faculty is all CPAs.

44 years at UDC in various administrative and

recent trip was to Peru.

“As someone told me, he could hire an

teaching positions.

Dean Sepehri prefers a hands-on manage-

English professor for about $40,000 a year,

“Not only was I able to carry on the fine

ment style that is actively engaged with the

but you can’t get a PhD in business for under

work that was started many years ago when

student body. In fact, he says, “I’m not one to

$120,000.”

SBPA began to educate the next generation of

sit behind a desk; I like to walk around and see what’s going on.”

After all, he adds, “we’re not here for ourselves; we are here for the students.”

SBPA Forges Pathways and Partnerships to Self-Sufficiency

BY STAFF WRITER

F

and Psychology faculty guide the team on identifying the most appropriate community linkages and appropriate referrals.

Currently, the PATHS program serves 1,700 residents in the District of Columbia.

All of the participants in the program are referred by the Department of Human Services (DHS), Economic Security Administration (ESA).

Eleven staff members are employed by the PATHS program, including four graduates of the UDC Master’s of Public Administration

or the past 16 years, the School of

DHS, ESA staff are provided through the

(MPA) program. The PATHS program cur-

Business and Public Administration

School of Business and Public Administration

rently offers experiential learning opportuni-

(SBPA) has been changing lives for

(SBPA), Institute of Human Service Delivery.

ties through internships for students enrolled

those in need through its memoran-

The MOA funds the job skills training

in the MPA, Social Work and Counseling and

dum of agreement (MOA). Under

offered by PATHS. The job skills train-

the agreement, the Paving Access Trails to

ing programs include Home Health Aide

Under the guidance of a licensed clini-

Psychology programs.

Still, he is up for the challenge and pleased to

business leaders, but more importantly I was

be at UDC. Although he may miss Jacksonville,

able to do this with the help of outstanding

“Washington, D.C., is the greatest city, and [he

faculty, staff, students, and more recently an

Higher Security (PATHS) program, housed

(HHA), Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA),

cian, the Social Work and Counseling and

and his wife] have always wanted to be here.”

active Board of Advisors,” she wrote in the .BIZ

in the School of Business and Public Ad-

Hospitality and Food Safety/Management,

Psychology students conduct case record

newsletter which she started.

ministration (SBPA), administers job skills

Microsoft Office, Entrepreneurship and

reviews of PATHS customers. Records are

He says he sees himself more of a coach

Besides, his daughter and grandson live in

than a quarterback, and is well aware of the

nearby Silver Spring, Md., so he is now “lined

“In order for an institution to survive, every

training to Temporary Assistance for Needy

Child Development Associate (CDA). In

assessed and evaluated by the licensed cli-

tasks before him and the school. He under-

up to babysit, and enjoying wonderful meals,”

part of it must be able to grow and change,”

Families (TANF) and low-income residents

2015, new courses in Social Media, Social

nician. The clinician, students and PATHS

stands that rapidly elevating the accreditation

he says smiling and patting his belly.

Dr. Yates says. SBPA will undoubtedly benefit

in the District of Columbia.

Entrepreneurship, Anger Management and

case managers collaborate to recommend

Critical Thinking Skills were offered.

the most appropriate work placements for

level of the SBPA will take resources not yet

Dean Sepehri says, “People like me, im-

from Dean Sepehri’s passion for international

The Agreement is two-fold. First, the

available to the city’s only public institution

migrants, spend most of their lives away from

business, experiential learning and entre-

PATHS program provides job skills training

In addition to job readiness, job search

of higher learning. An investment in human

family, so I don’t want to spend the rest of my

preneurship, she added. “He sees where we

programs to assist low-income residents to

and job placement services, students receive

The student internships engage students

capital is especially necessary, he points out.

life away from family.”

need to go.”

become self-sufficient. Secondly, the PATHS

referrals for domestic violence, child care and

in active learning that demonstrates the

program provides technical assistance to the

housing. The PATHS program also provides

relevance and importance of their respec-

managers and staff Department of Human

transportation assistance for customers and

tive curriculums and enhance academic

Services ives DHS, ESA managers and staff.

knowledge and skills assessments.

achievement.

As mandated by the Personal Respon-

Customers in the PATHS program also

Students learn to become critical thinkers

DR. SANDRA G. YATES RETIRES

sibility and Work Opportunity Reconcil-

receive college counseling. PATHS customers

and tolerant of diversity and civic responsi-

iation Act, DHS seeks to provide training

are encouraged to enroll at the University of

bility. Furthermore, the PATHS internship

After 44 years of dedicated service at the University of the District of Columbia, Dr.

and employment support services that will

the District of Columbia (UDC) during any

improves the student’s interpersonal skills and

Sandra G. Yates, former Acting Dean of the School of Business & Public Administration

enhance customer’s ability to improve their

point of their skills training program. The

increases awareness of current social issues

has retired. During a career at the University that began in 1971, Dr. Yates has managed

employment prospects. DHS provides ser-

PATHS program pays the application fees

as they relate to academic areas of interest.

several academic units, including the Department of Business Education and Office

vices to help TANF participants overcome

for customers who submit an application

Administration and the Department of Education; taught graduate and undergraduate

barriers to obtaining jobs that provide full

to enroll in the University.

courses in business, education, and office administration; and developed curriculum

benefits and offer opportunities for wage

PATHS also offers mental health

Overall, the PATHS program provides

and training for personnel in government and private industry. As Chairperson of the

progression. Among the barriers confronted

screenings to its customers. A licensed cli-

human resources to address the needs of

Department of Education, she spearheaded the re-opening of the University’s Child

by TANF customers are low levels of basic

nician with the PATHS program along with

the District of Columbia community. It also

Development Center while helping to maintain the successful growth of the Institute of

skills and a lack of adequate employment

faculty from the Department of Counseling

engages community and business partners

Gerontology and the Early Childhood Leadership Institute, and setting the stage for the

skills training.

and Psychology administers the mental

as co-educators in providing rich learning

The job skills training programs are

health screenings to identify the presence

experiences for students and fosters an

managed through the PATHS program.

of at least one or more behavioral health

ethic of service and civic participation in

Training and technical assistance for the

disorders. The clinician and Counseling

UDC students.

teacher education programs that have ultimately been accredited by NCATE.

26

FA L L 2 01 5

each customer based upon the assessment.

Experiential education opportunities exist for both students and faculty.

WWW.UDC. EDU

27

AUGUST 19, 1935 – MARCH 23, 2015 ADEPARTMENT TRIBUTE TITLE

McKenzie was a mentor to Dr. James Williams who

Howard where she earned her masters; she got

McKenzie photo from Dunbar High School

served as a former President of the UDC National

her doctorate in education from George Wash-

yearbook, 1952.

Alumni Society (UDCNAS).

ington University. She was loaded for bear as she

to conduct her life’s business. That assumption would be wrong.

Floretta Dukes McKenzie The Master Knitter

BY JONET TA ROSE BARRAS

F

journeyed to the top of the education industry.

calls from principals, asking parents to call

She rose through the ranks, crossing ju-

the school immediately about a late or absent

risdictions and bureaucracies: from a teacher

child. She sought to halt social promotions,

After the family moved to D.C., eventually

in Maryland, to a counselor and teacher in the

before the issue became a cause for D.C. Council

locating to the middle-class community of

DCPS, to Area Assistant Superintendent and later

members. She was also ahead of the tech-teach-

River Terrace, Dukes went to the city’s public

Deputy Superintendent in Montgomery County

ing, having pushed for the use of computers in

schools. In 1952, she prepared to graduate from

Public Schools, to Deputy Assistant Secretary

the classroom. Equally important, McKenzie

the prestigious Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior

in the U.S. Department of Education, and then

never begrudged parental involvement in

High School. She had been a stellar student:

Chief State Education Officer and Superinten-

member of the orchestra, playing the cello and

dent of DCPS. At the education department,

alma mater to help her corps of teachers and

“Once she called me into her office and said

winning music awards. She also participated in

Spinner recalled that when there was a “special

administrators secure the additional training

‘I want the best damn community involvement

the Fleur-de-lis. While a symbol often seen in

offering to other states around community and

they needed. “She made the university a special

and parental involvement program in the

coat-of-arms of various monarchs, at Dunbar,

parental involvement, McKenzie told Maurice

contractor,” said Spinner, noting that McKenzie

country,’ ” recalled Spinner. “I said so you want

the Fleur-de-lis was an organization “where

Sykes to get someone from [D.C.] to assist with

had an understanding and appreciation for the

this stuff on paper or do you want the reality.

they taught us to be ladies,” said Thornhill, who

development of the application.

role of the past in perfecting the present and

She said ‘Both.’”

graduated from the school in 1961.

“She was trying to connect the local efforts

program decisions.

future. “She was strategic.”

McKenzie may have seemed fully ready

Interestingly, in her senior yearbook, Dukes

with the national,” continued Spinner, who

And, when McKenzie spotted talent, she

for the job, but before retiring from DCPS in

wrote that she fancied herself becoming a law-

eventually worked alongside McKenzie in

wasn’t shy about helping to sculpt those indi-

1988, she confessed to the Washington Post

yer. “My impression was that Floretta was very

DCPS. “I was very fortunate to grow up as a

viduals. James Williams, a D.C. Teachers College

that she had made mistakes but “learned to be

methodical, very analytical and systematic in

professional under tutelage of strong Afri-

alumnus, had worked on the sorting floor of a

unflappable. I worked on my style.”

the way she did things,” continued Thornhill.

can-American women. I was in my 50s before

local U.S. post office before joining the DCPS.

“The school system used to be in the paper

I had my first male supervisor.”

He later went to New Jersey, but eventually

often and in a very negative way,” she continued.

But Dukes didn’t make it to the legal pro-

loretta Dukes McKenzie “knew how to

Group and sitting on the boards of directors for

fession. She enrolled in the D.C. Teachers

McKenzie eventually recruited Sykes into

came back to DCPS. McKenzie’s helped him

“A lot of citizens congratulated me on not being

knit ideas, people and policy togeth-

several corporations, including PEPCO and the

College—a predecessor institution of the

the DCPS. “She put us on a trajectory to be a

climb the leadership ladder, ultimately choosing

in the paper.”

er in a way that was seamless,” said

Marriott Corporation.

University of the District of Columbia. Two

[national leader] in pre-kindergarten. Sykes

him as principal of a high school. When Dayton,

That invisibility may have worked against

Connie Spinner, head of school and

A woman with an expansive personality,

schools — Wilson Teachers College, which had

became her early childhood czar,” said Thorn-

Ohio, looking for a deputy superintendent,

her, however. McKenzie has received very little

chief executive office at Community

McKenzie seemed to have made only friends

been for whites, and Miner Teachers College,

hill, a former vice president of the UDC Board

asked McKenzie for a recommendation, she

citywide recognition for her enormous contribu-

College Prep Academy Public Charter School

during a nearly 50-year career. Patricia Mc-

which educated blacks — merged in 1955 to

of Trustees.

in the District of Columbia.“She was genius at

Guire, president of Trinity University-DC,

create D.C. Teacher’s College.

creating partnerships with all of the various

called her a model for “the steady, committed

entities that would make a difference in the

offered Williams. He eventually became that

tions to education. Williams nominated her for

“Part of what McKenzie represented was

city’s superintendent, moving to other systems

UDC’s Distinguished Alumni of the Year Award.

Miner had grown out of Myrtilla Miner’s

an appreciation for history and local context,”

before ending his career as head of the Buffalo,

Despite being bedridden by Parkinson, she was

discrete school leader who focused on the right

determination to educate young black children.

said Spinner. She understood the social-political

New York public schools. “Each step of the way

determined to attend the ceremony. Unfortu-

lives of young people. She did it…like I have

things—teaching and leading—and avoids the

Her effort was fought aggressively and vocifer-

context that this unique school system sat in,

Floretta McKenzie was there. The majority of

nately, Williams received a call from one of her

never seen before or since,” added Carrie

pitfalls of politics.

ously by other whites in the city. While it changed

and she could capitalize on it.”

African Americans and some white who became

family members reporting she wouldn’t make

superintendents, [she] had something to do

it. He accepted the award on McKenzie’s behalf.

with it,” said Williams, a former president of

That was the beginning of her end.

Thornhill, treasurer of the Dunbar High School Alumni Federation.

The 1956 D.C. Teachers College graduate held leadership positions in the U.S. Department of

“Her example,” McGuire continued,

names several times, in 1929 Congress accredited

“should be the case study in school leader-

it as Miner Teachers College. It was responsible

ship programs for how to lead with integrity,

for educating thousands of African-American

Nurturing, Shaping And Building Leaders

durability and respect.”

teachers. “Most of our colleagues and friends

The place where McKenzie may have had

McKenzie also dramatically improved

that other, less deserving, local leaders, have

had been D.C. Teachers College graduates,” said

her greatest impact was in the DCPS. She

DCPS student achievement. She took the

had buildings named for them. But she hasn’t

believed that public education wasn’t just a

Competency Based-Curriculum program that

had that honor. A school should bear her name, “At least that,” said Spinner.

Education, the Montgomery County, Maryland

the UDC alumni association.

Many people who knew McKenzie lamented

Public Schools and the D.C. Public Schools. At

The Detour

Spinner, a 1969 graduate of the college, who met

her death on March 23, 2015, she had thoroughly

That reputation might suggest the second

McKenzie while she was at the department of

Pre-kindergarten through 12th grade experi-

had been piloted by former Superintendent

saturated public education, building important

daughter of Ruth and Martin Dukes Sr.,

education; Spinner, a DCPS employee, worked

ence. Rather it continued through post-sec-

Vincent Reed and expanded it; some people

alliances at the local and federal levels while

born Floretta Lillian Dukes on August 19,

on a project related to that system.

ondary years.

have called CBC an antecedent to the current

Jonetta Rose Barras is a freelance writer,

nurturing new leaders. She also made her mark

1935 in Lakeland, Florida, scoped out edu-

After McKenzie received a bachelor’s in

McKenzie pushed staff development which

Common Core Standards. She introduced an

whose work appears in numerous publications

in the private sector, launching The McKenzie

cation early as the field in which she wanted

science from Teachers College, she went to

was aligned with recertification. She used her

anti-truancy program, using robo telephone

including The Washington Post and USA Today.

28

FA L L 2 01 5

WWW.UDC. EDU

29

RESEARCH

UDC Research Farm, Greenbelt, MD features three aquaponic systems, five hydroponic demonstration systems, specialty crops and ethnic crops programs to

PHOTO BY LESLIE MALONE

teach efficient urban food production methods.

a showcase for green infrastructure, a storm water system will harvest rainwater and capture water runoff and drip irrigation is embedded to provide water in the plant boxes and beds. are a part of the larger Cooperative Extension System, a program under the National Institute

PHOTO BY LESLIE MALONE

of Food and Agriculture of the U.S. Depart-

Antonio Harrison proudly displays a persimmon he picked during the 2015 CAUSES HarvestFest at the University’s Muirkirk Research Farm in Beltsville, MD.

UDC’s Land-Grant Mission and the Spirit of Public Engagement

ment of Agriculture. Cooperative Extension is a nationwide educational network that brings research and knowledge of land-grant institutions to people in their homes, workplaces and communities. The Smith-Lever Act of 1914 created the Cooperation Extension Service (CES), where representatives

In 2014, the five land-grant centers of

known as extension agents were tasked with

CAUSES collectively served 35,000 program

teaching the community and disseminating

participants, ages 5 to 95, and awarded 1,207

research-based information on various topics,

workforce development certificates. The land-

such as: nutrition, agriculture, small business,

grant centers consist of the Center for Urban

youth development and personal finance.

CAUSES offers a wide range of programs that serve individuals and organizations in our community and beyond.

In late September, the University broke ground on a 3-acres farm in Ward 7 on a 3-acres urban farm in Ward 7, which will include aquaponics, community garden plots, a pollinator garden and a farmer’s market.

The Sustainable Urban Agriculture certificate program has certified 53 community members from the greater metropolitan Washington since its inception in 2014. Participants learned how to farm in small spaces, how to start an urban agriculture business, how to “add value” to produce grown in an urban environment, how to market their produce and products and how to manage food waste.

This represents the urban food system solution

• Grant funding has almost doubled to more than $4 million per year for research

coined “urban food hubs.”

Given the urgent need to focus on global

Agriculture & Gardening Education; the Center

In CAUSES, the extension agents – known

for Sustainable Development which includes

as community educators – provide practical

the Water Resources Research Institute; the

information to small business owners, youth,

• The urban agriculture research farm fea-

billion people join this planet over the next 15

College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences

Center for Nutrition Diet & Health which

consumers, and others in communities of all

tures three aquaponic systems, five hydroponic

years, CAUSES is positioned to find effective

includes the Institute of Gerontology; the

sizes. These community educators respond to

demonstration systems, specialty crops and

urban agriculture and urban sustainability

Center for 4-H & Youth Development; and

public inquiries from community focus group

ethnic crops programs to teach efficient urban

solutions that meet local and global needs,

BY PROFESSOR WILLIAM HARE

the Architectural Research Institute.

meetings and listening sessions to identify

food production methods.

making cities more livable and their people

T

and community education.

food and water security as an additional two

Collectively, the five CAUSES centers part-

critical issues germane to the community,

• In 2014, eight tons of top quality produce

healthier. In 2014, CAUSES developed the

nered with 65 DC schools, 28 faith communities

then conduct research based informal, non-

were grown for food banks like Bread for the

Urban Food Hubs concept. Food security

he community is the classroom for

a traditional land-grant institution with an

and community centers, and more than 3,376

credit workshops and other educational events

City and DC Central Kitchen, and for the

demands a diversified food system that in-

the College of Agriculture, Urban

urban environment. CAUSES offers a wide

community volunteers. The Centers offer

to increase knowledge, change behavior or

prestigious Hay Adams Hotel.

cludes urban communities as locations for

Sustainability and Environmen-

range of programs that serve individuals

such diverse services as workforce develop-

attitude and ultimately improve economic,

tal Sciences (CAUSES), which

and organizations in our community and

ment programs in food safety, waste water

environmental and social conditions.

• On track to receive EPA certification

food production, food preparation, food

for the Environmental Quality Testing

distribution and waste reduction and reuse.

embodies the urban land-grant

beyond. It works with more than 80 different

management and green infrastructure; to

UDC students benefit from the experien-

Laboratory, which will offer soil and water

The CAUSES concept tests the feasibility of

mission of the University of the District of

schools, faith communities, homeless shelters,

nutrition education and composting programs

tial learning opportunities provided by our

testing services in DC for the first time in

small-scale urban food systems that include

Columbia (UDC) – earning this designation

community gardens and farmers markets to

in schools; assistance with farmers markets,

land-grant centers. They develop marketable

the city’s history.

these four key components. In addition to

in 1967. Being a land-grant and public insti-

bring its work where fellow DC citizens live.

entrepreneurship training and community

skills through student and faculty research

Inaugurated a 20,000-square-foot green

improving food security, the Urban Food

tution makes the University of the District

CAUSES offers research-based academic and

gardens; and assessment services to determine

collaborations, interactions with residents

roof, which sits on top of Building 44 on the

Hubs also contribute to job creation, small

of Columbia uniquely different from other

community outreach programs that improve

soil, plant and water quality, lead contamination

and community organizations, and leadership

Van Ness campus. In addition to food-bearing

business development and urban sustain-

Washington, D.C. colleges and universities.

the quality of life and economic opportunity

and other environmental hazards.

opportunities.

plants, intensive climate-friendly vegetation

ability in its economic, social/cultural, and

As the nation’s only urban land-grant in-

of people and communities in the District of

grown on the roof provides coverage that

environmental/physical dimensions.

stitution, UDC must marry the aspects of

Columbia, the nation and the world.

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FA L L 2 01 5

Coexisting with the academic programs, the community outreach programs of CAUSES

Here are a few examples from over the past three years:

will help to naturally cool the building. Also

The heart of the CAUSES Urban Food

WWW.UDC. EDU

31

RESEARCH

Hubs is high efficiency food production sites

composting, water management, and related

home; in the heart of the nation’s capital. For

that utilize bio-intensive, aquaponic and

approaches to minimizing pressure on urban

more information on CAUSES, visit www.udc.

hydroponic production methods. Co-located

land and infrastructural systems.

edu/CAUSES.

with these urban food production sites are

CAUSES prides itself on being connected to

commercial kitchens that serve as business

people and places right in its own neighborhoods

Professor William Hare is the Associate Dean

incubators and training facilities for food

and around the world. Because of its success,

for Land-grant Programs in the College of Agri-

processing and nutritional health-related

universities and cities from all over the world

culture Urban Sustainability and Environmental

activities. Given their location in urban neigh-

have begun to approach UDC to learn how

Sciences. He is a research/extension scientist

borhoods, direct marketing to local small

to replicate its work. Current international

and grant administrator with over 15 years of

businesses and farmers markets support food

collaborations include Aruba, Malawi, Liberia,

excellent leadership, management and landgrant

desert areas, and the Urban Food Hubs also

Germany, and Haiti.

University experience in the specialty areas of

focus on waste reduction and reuse through

But the work always begins right here at

NICHOLAS D. TONEY is

else. The principles I learned were integrity and patience. It requires

proud to be called an urban

patience when the weather isn’t kind to you and integrity when you

farmer. Being a part of CAUS-

are not kind to your crops. I also feel that farming makes you more

T

working across disciplinary boundaries. The cyber security curriculum in the Homeland Security program is supported by well-regarded faculty research production in the area. Dr. Angelyn Spaulding Flowers, program coordinator for the homeland security graduate program, publishes in the area of cyber security policy, threats and response. Her

he goal of the Homeland Security

recent publications on cyber security have

Program at the University of the

appeared in peer- reviewed journals including

District of Columbia is to build an

IEEE journals and the Journal of Homeland

enduring capacity for STEM quan-

Security and Emergency Management. She

titative and qualitative research

has previously served on the Academic Advi-

methods in the social sciences. While many

sory Board for Weapons of Mass Destruction

Universities emphasize the natural science,

and Terrorism for McGraw-Hill Publishing Company’s Contemporary Learning Series.

ES means that lessons are put

self-sufficient as an individual. It is by far one of the most difficult jobs

engineering, and math disciplines of STEM

into action for the 18-year-old

in the world.”

in homeland security, the undergraduate and

Her subject matter expertise is recognized

graduate programs at the University of the

internationally, as evidenced by the invitation

District of Columbia are in the vanguard of

to serve on the Scientific Program Committee

“My friends and family were first amused by the fact that I’m

emphasizing the social science research dimen-

for the First International Conference on

land-grant institutions and the

farming, but now they respect it because I save tons of money for my-

sions of science and technology in homeland

only one with an exclusively

self and for them whenever I harvest from the farm. It’s amusing to

security. The Master of Science in Homeland

Homeland Security department Chair, Angelyn

the Advisory Committees for the Fourth Cyber

urban focus.

my friends and family because they never knew someone who moved

Security is one of the newer programs at the

Flowers is the only African-American and the only

security for Energy and Utilities Conference

passed stereotypes about farming as an African American in order to

University of the District of Columbia, but it

woman selected to serve on the Scientific Program

in the United Arab Emirates where she served

be more conscious about what is in the food.”

is also one of the fastest growing. It admitted

Committee for the First International Conference on

as a Conference Speaker. Dr. Sinclair Jeter,

its first seven students in the spring of 2011.

Anti-Cybercrime held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia last March.

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice while

researcher’s assistant at the 143-acre UDC farm in Beltsville, Md. – a leader among

The farm offers a glimpse of agriculture, which can serve urban communities including apple orchards that supply food for pantries, a shipping container filled with fish that makes food and fertilizer, and

Gaining the unique experience did not come without some teasing and misunderstanding among peers.

An avid reader and honor student with a 3.41 GPA, Toney is a

Anti-Cybercrime in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and

a Co-Principal Investigator for the

member of the psychology club and the African-American Trap

Four years later, 54 students have entered the

Shooting organization. His love of nature extends beyond CAUSES.

program which has 19 graduates and a current

dents who have been employed

Mondays and Wednesdays, my job is to manage the health and

He is known to run four to five miles in the mornings in a park near

student enrollment of 28. Taking advantage

in career fields, but want to

development of all plants on the Green roof. In other words, I sweep

the Potomac River. “At the moment, I am putting more of an effort to

of its location in Washington, D.C., the Home-

change fields, and students

graduate computer science

the floors, water the plants, transplant the plants into bigger pots

start a garden closer to where I live so I will be spending more of my

land Security program is able to integrate

currently employed in one

student, has published a

time getting it together.”

the expertise of experienced practitioners as

of the many homeland

peer-reviewed article on

adjunct faculty, speakers, mentors, and some

security areas seeking to

the problem of terrorism

of the fellow students who work in a variety of

enhance their knowledge

in virtual worlds. Dr. Jian

HLSC agencies.

and skills.

greenhouses with specialty crops.

“My responsibilities are very straight forward,” said Toney. “On

if needed, and harvest the produce. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, my job is to manage the development and growth of five different species of trees for an experiment to determine the effectiveness of irrigation systems on DC’s urban sidewalks.”

The sophomore psychology major is a DC native with a family

Toney raves about his UDC experience and the supportive faculty that helped make his work a reality.

“UDC has a wonderful staff and opportunities for internships,” Toney said. “Overall, I love the tuition rates because I feel more in

The student population in the graduate

In addition to a set of

Scholars Leadership grant, in conjunction with an under-

Hua, Information Science Program (School of Business and Public Administration)

program in Homeland Security is as diverse as

core courses intended to pro-

the field itself. Almost one-third of the students

vide a comprehensive grounding

gist or a plant geneticist,” he said. “Afterwards, I will invest more

were born and raised external to the United

in this diverse field graduate students

thing,” he said. “I feel the best when the job is done and the skills

money into stocks and small businesses, then begin constructing

States. This includes Africa, the Caribbean,

may group their electives in concentration

at the CREATE DHS Center of Excellence at

from that job becomes a part of my wide variety of experiences.”

a web network of income. Overall, my number one goal in life is to

and the Middle East. Forty-three percent of

areas to provide more in-depth knowledge in

the University of Southern California, and

be mentally, physically, and spiritually sound. For my family and my

the students are female, representing a six

a specific area. Specific focus areas identified

has applied for a second time. Both times,

community, I will use the money I earn to create better opportunities

percent increase over program alumni. The

by students include: terrorism and count-

he requested a homeland security graduate

and economic mobility to impact the African diaspora.”

program also has a mix of students directly

er-terrorism; community disaster resilience;

student as his student partner providing a DHS

entering from undergraduate programs, stu-

and cyber security.

funded research experience for a HLSC grad-

hailing from the South, who he says emphasizes responsibility, respect, and integrity.

“Yes I receive credit, however, credit is not the most important

“Working on the farm is like working on your life. It has its ups and downs, but overall you can prevent what happens next. Farming teaches you strong principles that you wouldn’t appreciate anywhere

32

soil nutrition and water resources management.

Homeland Security at the University of the District of Columbia

The strength of the UDC’s cyber security efforts is a strong research agenda coupled with

FA L L 2 01 5

control of my debt after college.”

“My goals for the future are to become either a biogerontolo-

was selected for summer DHS faculty-student research collaboration

WWW.UDC. EDU

33

RESEARCH

Extremism; and, Crisis Communication and Disaster Resilience. The goal is a broad dissemination of knowledge. Therefore, these prospective concentrations, as well as the current HS-STEM concentration can be added to compliment any degree.

Two principal challenges to increasing the numbers of underrepresented minorities in homeland security related science and technology research areas are awareness and financing. Particularly at the undergraduate 2015 UDC Homeland security graduate, Second Lieutenant John Lake (far left) was among the top 10 percent of

level, students are simply unaware of the

ROTC Officers commissioned nationally. He is currently a student in the U.S. Army’s Cyber Basic Officer Leadership

abundance and variety of careers in homeland

Course, where he is training to be a Cyber Warfare Officer.

security. To mitigate that issue, two seminars a semester are hosted at UDC on a homeland related issue or topic. These interactive pre-

UDC Research, Training and Service Portfolio Tops 21 Million

BY JOVITA WELLS, JD, DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF SPONSORED PROGRAMS

U

nderpinning and building upon

continually challenge themselves, engage our

spective students in DC-area community

the University of the District of

students, and raise UDC’s research profile:

colleges toward the pursuit of a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering. In addition,

Columbia’s academic, land-grant,

School of Engineering and Applied Science

the project will expose DC-area high school

research initiatives that are conducted through

One of the areas of increasing excitement

UDC faculty to current trends and research

its various centers, institutes and programs

and research success at UDC is the School

in biomedical engineering.

and workforce programs are extraordinary, innovative and diverse

students, UDC undergraduate students and

uate student. The cybersecurity initiatives in

through IPSJ, was just beginning its first Sci-

sentations are open to all students. The goal

in the fields of sciences, social sciences, en-

of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS).

the Homeland Security Program compliment

entific Leadership Award (SLA) for Minority

is to increase student awareness of the field.

gineering, humanities and agriculture. It

According to Dr. Devas Shetty. The fields of

Nian Zhang, PhD., Associate Professor of

the information assurance initiatives in the

Serving Institutions from the Department of

The second issue is financial. For students,

is the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP),

Engineering, Technology and Computer Sci-

Electrical Engineering, was granted an NSF

University’s computer sciences programs.

Homeland Security, Science and Technology

this financial disadvantage can be seen in

established to centralize the coordination of

ence are transforming the world in ways nev-

Research Initiation Award. The project will

The Assurance Research Center for Trusted

Directorate – Office of University Programs.

their ability to participate in internships.

the research and sponsored programs portfolio

er before imagined. The advancements made

support improved ability to incorporate an

Information Computing (ARCTIC), in the

The purpose of this initiative was to increase

The overwhelming numbers of internship

on a campus-wide basis, that helps engender,

in the previous decades, the pace of change

integrated supervised learning, reinforce-

Department of Computer Science (School of

minority representation in the homeland

opportunities are unpaid. They offer valuable

monitor, evaluate, and report on the Univer-

and innovation are now accelerating at an ex-

ment learning and unsupervised learning to

Engineering and Applied Science), is a desig-

security science and technology research

educational and networking opportunities.

sity’s myriad activities. The OSP provides

ponential rate.”

enhance error-based systems. Dr. Zhang’s

nated Center of Excellence for information

areas. UDC was tasked with creating an en-

However, they are often beyond the reach of

leadership, information, training, services

SEAS graduates are prepared for high-de-

project will combine match-based learning

assurance by the National Science Foundation

during capacity in the social and behavioral

students who are more likely to be relying on

and support to the University community—

mand careers in engineering and computer

with error-based learning to obtain the best

(NSF) and DHS.

sciences HS-STEM research area. This was

Pell grants and their own ability to engage in

faculty, research associates, students, and

science through individualized learning in

of both. This project will benefit society by

The Homeland Security program, both

accomplished through a combination of

paid employment to stay in school. The ability

staff—in the acquisition and administration

small classes, mentoring, and close collabora-

reducing the global carbon footprint and will

the graduate degree and the undergraduate

undergraduate curriculum enhancements,

to obtain a paid internship, such as the ones

of externally funded projects that advance

tion with faculty and other students ultimately

serve as a model for other resource-intensive

concentration is part of the Criminal Justice

student scholarships which included paid

offered to our HS-STEM scholarship recipi-

the instruction, research, and public service

leading to an extraordinary success rate on

manufacturing processes.

Program in the Division of Social and Behav-

research opportunities, and most importantly,

ents and the summer research students can

mission of the University.

engineering board examinations. Students

ioral Sciences, College of Arts and Science.

a nation-wide summer HS-STEM student

be instrumental in increasing the number of

It is the faculty and staff of UDC who

are exposed to research, design and discovery

Dr. Paul Cotae, Professor, Electrical Engi-

The Institute for Public Safety and Justice

research assistantship program.

underrepresented minority students in the

fuel the expanding research and sponsored

projects tackling today’s challenging problems

neering, was awarded support by NSF for his

(IPSJ) is the research, training, and evaluation

The summer research program offered the

HS-STEM research opportunities. This in

programs portfolio, which simultaneous-

and developing innovative solutions important

Performance Data Driven Methods and Tools for

infrastructure the Criminal Justice Program.

opportunity to participate on multi-disciplinary

turn can lead them to careers in the field. The

ly connects the University to prestigious

to industry or government.

Computer Network Defense through Network

When the graduate program in Homeland

student research teams utilizing computer

ability as undergraduates to engage in research

grants and resources and provides solutions

Security began, the University, using its

modeling and analytic programs to shape and

is an invaluable asset for future employment

to real-world issues and experiential learning

Institute for Public Safety & Justice (IPSJ),

conduct their research. The themes included,

or graduate school opportunities.

was in the final phase of a multi-million dollar

right-wing extremism, cyber-attacks or other

cooperative agreement with the Department

attacks on critical infrastructure, biological

of Homeland Security – Federal Emergency

terrorism, community disaster resilience, as

Management Agency (FEMA) to develop

well as others.

Science project. The project will contribute to the Army’s mission of keeping economic

opportunities for our faculty and students.

National Science Foundation Funds New Academic and Research Initiatives

The undergraduate and graduate programs

We salute all who take on this additional work

Lara Thompson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor

attention; it will assess the health of larger com-

in Homeland Security at the University of the

to improve the learning and training taking

of Mechanical Engineering, SEAS was one of

puter networks to identify and prioritize their

District of Columbia continue to grow and

place at UDC and to address the needs of the

three SEAS faculty to win a National Science

weaknesses for effective responses given limited

deepen their capacity for STEM social science

region, nation, and beyond.

Foundation grant in 2015. Her award funds

resources. The project also supports graduate

and military strategic areas from untoward

and then implement a training program

The University is currently in Phase I of

research as one of the University’s major com-

Faculty researchers brought in more than

the “Integration, Cultivation, and Exposure

students in their advanced research, and allows

designed to increase the legal preparedness

its second SLA-MSI Award. It will continue

mitments to creating an environment where

$20 million in funding last year and have

to Biomedical Engineering” project which

undergraduate interns to work next to faculty

of state, local, and tribal governments to

to build on the capabilities achieved under the

students are mentored to engage research,

raised the ante with another $21 million in

has as its goal to enhance existing academic

and graduate students while participating in

address disasters whether natural or man-

first award but will add two new undergraduate

publications, professional development and

funding during 2015. This issue of Legacy

infrastructure by integrating new courses

advanced research. The goal is to increase the

made. Simultaneously, the University, again

concentration areas: Terrorism and Violent

civic engagement.

highlights just some of those researchers who

in Biomedical Engineering, cultivating pro-

number of underrepresented minorities, HBCU

34

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35

RESEARCH

students participating in summer programs at various Army Research Centers.

Dr. Sasan Haghani, Associate Professor, Electrical Engineering, was awarded a three-year grant by the National Science Foundation, “Targeted Infusion Proposal: Course Development for a 21st Century Smart Grid Workforce.” His project will prepare students to fill the serious shortage of qualified workers in the power industry in the next few years because of an aging workforce in this sector. The project will develop Smart Grid technology curricula that will enhance the engineering and computer science programs and train students who can join the 21st Century Smart Grid workforce. One of the broader impacts of the project includes

OFFICE OF SPONSORED PROGRAMS FY 2015 REPORT OF GRANT ACTIVITIES COLLEGES/SCHOOL/DIVISIONS Awards Number Awarded

Amount Awarded

Division of Academic Affairs

2

$284,000

Division of Career Services

1

$2,400

College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)

7

$6,053,200

College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES)

21

$7,153,860

School of Business and Public Administration (SBPA)

1

$3,312,825

School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)

9

$1,565,900

Division of Student Affairs

6

$1,492,127

School/Division

The Authors: University Faculty Publications

UDC Community College

integral part of a renewable energy minor.

Grand Total

An additional project goal is to develop short

8

$1,410,106

55

$21,274,417

Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master’s

education among UDC faculty and graduate

emerging area of Smart Grid.

of Science in Cancer Biology, Prevention and

students and DCPS middle science teachers.

illustrate how decentralized, relatively lowcost technologies can lead the way.

BY STAFF WRITER

marily on the resource side of the production

Product Design for Engineers

process. The real constraint is on the “sink”

By Dr. Devdas Shetty

side of the economic process where emissions

courses that will establish UDC as a premier training center for the energy workforce in the

the characteristics of the New Economy and

The University of the District of Columbia is proud to present a sampling of recent titles—published since 2010—written by our distinguished faculty.

increased enrollment of students in the STEM disciplines. The developed courses will be an

new technologies that are consistent with

Control. These degrees are designed to enhance

must be absorbed and waste products must

Intended to serve as a primary text for Prod-

be processed. Until now, this focus on ‘sinks’

uct Design, Capstone Design, or Design for

has been mainly overlooked.

Manufacturing, Product Design for Engineers

“We have largely ignored the context sys-

explores techniques for managing innovation,

tems within which all economic production

entrepreneurship, and design. Students are

take place,” said O’Hara. “These systems are

introduced to the creative problem-solving

real whether we are talking about the physical

method for product success through case stud-

context of our natural environment or the so-

ies that explore issues of design for assembly,

College of Arts and Sciences Projects funded by the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation

scientific knowledge and career potential for

Dr. Freddie Dixon, Professor of Biology, and

individuals preparing to become biologists,

Principal Investigator of the STEM Center

Physics and the New Economy

biomedical/cancer researchers or health care

for Research and Development: Increasing

By Dr. Sabine O’Hara and Dr. Thomas

cial context of our communities and societies.

disassembly, reliability, maintainability, and

professionals. The Department has the phi-

Minority Students in STEM is again pro-

Kakovitch

Economic production impacts both.”

sustainability. The book’s interdisciplinary

The College of Arts and Sciences offers a wide

losophy of providing undergraduate research

vided support from the National Science

range of programs and according to Dean

experiences to all biology majors, enabling

Foundation. The STEM Center is designed

April Massey, we are continuously reviewing

them to enroll in competitive advanced degree

our offerings to guarantee that our programs

programs and specialized career pathways.

are relevant and forward reaching. The ma-

“To have balance in nature, a source

approach, step-by-step coverage, and helpful

Dr. Sabine O’Hara, dean and director of the

must have a sink. If sources are flooding in

illustrations and charts provide mechanical,

to stimulate student intellectual ambition

College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability

continuously, the sink can only take so much.

industrial, aerospace, manufacturing, and au-

and enthusiasm to complete a STEM de-

and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) and

We are running out of sinks,” said Kakov-

tomotive engineering students with everything

gree, provide faculty with activities that will

Director of Land-grant Programs for the

itch. The production of goods and services

they need to design cost-effective, innovative products that meet customer needs.

jors we offer are enhanced by our flexible and

Dr. Lena Walton, Associate Dean, College of

expand their teaching and research skills in

University of the District of Columbia (UDC)

create waste and emissions that accumulate

expanding menu of minors, concentrations,

Arts and Sciences and Professor of Education,

order that they will become better prepared

and Environmental Science Professor Thomas

when they have nowhere to go, or no sinks.

“Overall the book is well structured and

and program options. Likewise, the College’s

was awarded a six year grant by the National

to impart knowledge and assist in the devel-

Kakovitch, collaborated to publish Physics

The availability of these universal sinks to

contained required chapters on Product De-

expanding slate of experiential possibilities

Science Foundation Noyce for Project Fire-

opment of students’ skills as they forge suc-

and the New Economy. The book explores the

process these byproducts of the economic

sign,” said Dr. Ramin Sedaghati, Concordia

offers opportunity for students to tailor their

bird, Reinventing STEM Teaching, (Project

cessful mentor/mentee relationships and

relationship between physics and economics,

process is the crux of the matter. Once re-

University, Department of Mechanical and

educational journey to fit individual inter-

FRST). Her multi-year project will utilize

provide innovative support activities that

to address how our mindsets and models

leased, waste and emissions accumulate in

Industrial Engineering. “The book generally

ests, strengths, and needs. CAS faculty and

research-driven best practices to prepare as-

complement student learning and faculty en-

must change to ensure a sustainable path of

the environment.

presents the material in a systematic way with

staff are readily available to provide individ-

piring District of Columbia public and charter

hancement. The STEM Center will improve

economic development.

ualized academic experiences and research

middle school teachers to meet state require-

recruitment, retention and graduate rates

experiences that create the foundation for

ments for licensure in secondary science. Her

the careers our students envision and that

cohort model will strengthen middle science

support the futures they are pursuing.

Physics and the New Economy describes

adequate number of practical design examples,

As described in the book, everything the

a new model of production and new tech-

which should be understandable by undergrad-

of STEM student by providing them with a

economy produces is physical. While econ-

nologies that can alleviate pressures on

uate students in Mechanical Engineering.”

rigorous research and mentoring program

omists have warned of physical constraints

environmental and social sink functions

Dr. Shetty serves as dean and professor at

teaching and learning, adhere to newly-fash-

and specialized learning activities that trans-

that will limit the production of economic

and move us in the direction of sustainable

the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

The Biology program within the College

ioned Next Generation Science Standards and

late to increased academic performance and

goods and services, Kakovitch and O’Hara

development. The book offers examples of

at the University of the District of Columbia. He

of Arts and Sciences offers two programs:

enhance the infrastructure for research and

graduation rates.

argue that these constraints do not lie pri-

economic production that use innovative

is the author of three books and more than 200

36

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RESEARCH

scientific articles and has obtained six patents.

vision, biometrics, and information theory.

characteristics? Could it be a force? These

Malcolm X started after leaving his senior

growing up in rural Pennsylvania and learned

markable rise from poverty led to conserva-

His research work has been cited for contribu-

Advanced-level students in electrical engi-

are the questions Thomas Kakovitch ad-

position in the Nation of Islam. Bailey was

the importance of family, how to appreciate

tory studies and tours of Europe and Africa

tion to the understanding of engineering surface

neering, mathematics, and computer science

dresses by way of story in Collegium: A Novel

newsletter editor for the OAAU, which was

what you have, and the importance of hard

before he established himself as a fixture on

measurement, for intellectual achievements

will also find this book useful as a secondary

of the Fifth Force.

founded the year before Malcolm X was

work. He offers important tips on how to

the New York scene. His efforts as a music

in mechatronics, and for contributions to

text book or reference.

Many readers may remember Thomas

assassinated. In this highly readable book,

achieve personal and professional success

publisher were bold and groundbreaking,

“This book does present a large collection

Kakovitch’s previous novel, The Fifth Force,

Bailey presents historical gems that include a

through the strategies in this guidebook to

and his quiet, unassuming personality set

of important concepts, of mathematical,

which explored the physical nature of force

never before published article that Malcolm

living. Regardless to what you are trying to

him apart from most of his peers.

geometrical, or algorithmical nature, that

prior to the existence of mass, electric charges,

X presented for publication the day before

accomplish, your mission will be much easier

In only a decade as a professional musi-

are frequently used in computer graphics

weak and strong nuclear charges. Now, from

he was assassinated. Further, Bailey recalls

with the tools and strategies found in The

cian, he earned the respect and admiration

and image processing,” said Dr. Rolf Klein,

the same writer comes Collegium, the book

Malcolm’s thoughtfulness and gentleness as

Master Plan: Ten Secrets to Success.

of his colleagues and served as a mentor to

University of Bonn. “These concepts range

that asks by way of story where in our solar

a revolutionary, Pan-African leader, master

This book starts as a biography of how to

numerous aspiring young players. Gryce’s

from graphs through manifolds to homology.

system is the best location to curve space to

teacher, and loving husband and father. A.

overcome hardship and make the best out of

sudden disappearance at the start of the 1960s

Of particular value are the sections dealing

minimize the elapsed time needed to have

Peter Bailey, was one of the last individuals

all situations. By applying some hard learned

left the jazz world wondering about his fate.

with discrete versions of classic continuous

communication across the vastness of the

to speak with Malcolm X on the day that he

lessons from Dr. Slack, readers garner a little

Few were aware of his change of identity and

notions. The reader finds compact defini-

universe? How do we initiate such inauguration

was assassinated and he was also a pallbearer

bit of wisdom using the best approaches cur-

professional rebirth. Misinformation about

tions and concise explanations that often

in communication? What happens to those

at Malcolm X’s funeral.

rently available to learn how to be successful.

Gryce abounds and rumors have circulated

appeal to intuition, avoiding finer, but then

civilizations who have translated the original

In other words, how to pick up our bootstraps

for decades. Years of research and dozens

necessarily more complicated, arguments.

message? Do they attain the equal rights in the

and teach ourselves to be successful through

of interviews were conducted for this book,

As a first introduction, or as a reference for

assembly of nature, Collegium?

product design.

Digital and Discrete Geometry: Theory and Algorithms

By Dr. Li M. Chen

a combination of wisdom, strategy, contin-

resulting in a biography that finally tells the

professionals working in computer graphics

Colorful characters, a secret operation

uous improvement strategies to reach ever

true story of this often overlooked figure and

or image processing, this book should be of

and a plot that spans from Washington, DC

higher circles of achievement, networks and

illuminates his contributions to one of the

considerable value.”

to China combine to illustrate how prog-

opportunities.

richest periods in jazz history.

The book, Digital and Discrete Geometry: The-

ress is not a smooth structure path, it also

Dr. John Louis Slack is currently the Di-

Winner of the 2003 Award for Excellence

ory and Algorithms provides comprehensive

consists of potholes of failures and how life

rector of the Public Health program at the

from the Association for Recorded Sound

coverage of the modern methods for geometric

undergoes modifications before it emerges

University of the District of Columbia.

Collections, the first edition has now been

problems in the computing sciences. It also

as a successful experiment.

updated with new information from another decade’s worth of research and never-be-

covers concurrent topics in data sciences including geometric processing, manifold

fore-seen photographs.

The Master Plan: Ten Secrets to Success

learning, Google search, cloud data, and R-tree for wireless networks and BigData.

The author investigates digital geometry

This book is as rare as the subject matter itself: a scholarly work that is also quite readable.

The research done by the author is meticulous

Dr. John Louis Slack

and sensitive.

and its related constructive methods in discrete geometry, offering detailed methods and algo-

Many people never fulfill their potential,

Sharing information has long been one of

rithms. The book is divided into five sections:

but it’s not because they lack intelligence or

Michael Fitzgerald’s passions, evidenced by

drive. They just never develop a master plan

his earlier career as a music educator as well

to enjoy and achieve success. Dr. John Louis

as by his involvement in founding “Current

geometric computation and processing; and

Slack shares 10 proven strategies to help you

Research In Jazz,” the first open access journal

advanced topics. Chapters especially focus

We may not be alone in this vast universe.

on the applications of these methods to other

Humans have evolved from animals to theo-

types of geometry, algebraic topology, image

reticians. No other species has accomplished

Witnessing Brother Malcolm X: The Master Teacher – A Memoir

build a master plan in this inspirational au-

processing, computer vision and computer

so much in such a short time. We are innova-

By A. Peter Bailey

graphics.

tive. We adapt. We change. One fundamental

basic geometry; digital curves, surfaces and

Collegium

manifolds; discretely represented objects;

By Dr. Thomas S. Kakovitch

tobiography. You’ll learn how to identify pre-

Rat Race Blues: The Musical Life of Gigi Gryce

requisite strategies to building a master plan;

By Michael Fitzgerald

in the field of jazz studies.

Fitzgerald is the electronic services librarian at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), home to the Felix E. Grant Jazz Archives.

exhibit qualities that make others believe in your abilities; harness social and emotional

Gigi Gryce was a saxophonist and composer

In addition to managing all Web resources and

Digital and Discrete Geometry: Theory

belief is that there was an original message

In Professor Bailey’s “Witnessing Brother

intelligence; and respond to new situations

who worked with some of the best-known

services for the university, he is also involved

and Algorithms targets researchers and pro-

in the universe the first set of information

Malcolm X,” the author and journalist speaks

and life transitions.

names in jazz during the 1950s, including

with the archives, and he has been instrumental

fessionals working in digital image processing

released in nature. What hidden informa-

from personal experience as a 20-something

By building a plan and always focusing

Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, and Max

in bringing two significant collections to UDC.

analysis, medical imaging (such as CT and MRI)

tion did the first message contain? Could the

and founding member of the Organization

on it, Dr. Slack overcame every obstacle

Roach. His many compositions remain a

He has also started a jazz research lecture series

and informatics, computer graphics, computer

primordial sets of information have physical

of Afro-American Unity, the secular group

and achieved true success. He looks back at

part of the jazz repertoire today. His re-

now in its second year.

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39

ACCREDITATIONS

were offered at the University of the Dis-

is required to use EPA–approved methods required

pact on the community and citizens of

trict of Columbia.

by regulation. Because the District of Columbia is

the District of Columbia. Twenty mem-

Dr. Devdas Shetty, Dean of the University’s

not a state, there is no state level EPA accrediting

bers of the community, alumni, and an

School of Engineering and Applied Sciences,

body; therefore, the EQTL had to acquire NELAP

Advisory Board comprised of nurses,

says ABET criteria focus on what students

accreditation, which has more strenuous require-

doctors, and other healthcare members

experience and learn. He describes the ABET

ments, including annual recertification.

spoke positively about the program’s

accreditation process as a comprehensive

Equipped with high-end analytical technologies

value to the community, and healthcare

review of program curricula, faculty quali-

with water quality models, the EQTL is not only

to underserved populations. Many of

fications, facilities and institutional support

essential for research and training needs of faculty

the external participants shared their

and are conducted by teams of highly skilled

and students, but directly benefits the community by

personal and individual stories; how-

disciplines. The ABET accreditation is the

UDC’s Environmental Quality Testing Lab Receives National Accreditation

Following an extensive on-campus review

ultimate benchmark for engineering educa-

The College of Agriculture, Urban Sus-

“This is only the first step in a long process and

and evaluation, ABET, which is the accred-

tion, and demonstrates the University of the

tainability and Environmental Sciences

we are not yet certified for all key substances. The

The RN-BSN Nursing Program has received high marks from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

itation body for engineering and computer

District of Columbia’s strong commitment to

(CAUSES) has received the full accredita-

NELAP accreditation is, however, a huge step for

The three member accrediting team,

of excellence by ACEN, for the RN-

science, has granted continued accredita-

providing students with a quality education.

tion of the Environmental Quality Test-

the University and for the District of Columbia,”

led by Dr. Jan Boundy, Dean of Gradu-

BSN Nursing Program is an eight year

tion status for the programs in the School

SEAS’ program value is further evi-

ing Laboratory (EQTL) by the National

explained Dr. Sabine O’Hara, dean of CAUSES. “To

ate Programs, College of nursing, Saint

award effective until the year 2023.

of Engineering and Applied Sciences

denced by the successful job placement of

Environmental Laboratory Accreditation

my knowledge, it is the first time that the District of

Francis Medical Center College of

The program is housed in the College of

(SEAS). ABET is the global accreditor of

its graduates. While 30 percent of graduates

Program (NELAP) Accreditation Council.

Columbia is home to a certified environmental testing

Nursing in Peoria, Illinois spent several

Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and

college and university programs in applied

pursue graduate programs in engineering,

NELAP accreditation is the highest nation-

laboratory and we will soon be open for business.”

days reviewing records and interview-

Environmental Sciences (CAUSES),

science, computing, engineering and tech-

computer science and management, the

al laboratory accreditation achievable.

Spearheaded by Dr. Tolessa Deksissa, the Lab-

ing administration, faculty, and stu-

and the Director of Nursing is Dr. Pier

nology. It assures that college and univer-

majority of UDC’s engineering students

The New Hampshire Environmental

oratory technicians Sebhat Tefera and Yacov Assa

dents to determine the program’s qual-

Broadnax.

sity programs meet standards to produce

are recruited directly into the workforce

Laboratory Accreditation Program (NH

were invaluable to the certification process. “NELAP

ity and effectiveness. The program met

The program is a 3-4 semester pro-

graduates who are ready to enter critical

by major companies.

ELAP) awarded primary NELAP Accredita-

accreditation is a testament to the dedication and

all six standards of excellence, without

gram (depending upon prior course work

Abet Accredits Programs in School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

professionals from industry, academia and government, with expertise in the ABET

providing research based solutions and supporting science based policies that impact the residents of the District of Columbia.

ever, the common themes revealed: “this program availability, affordability, excellent clinical opportunities, and the unwavering support of the nursing faculty”. This successful re-affirmation

technical fields that are leading the way

“The ABET stamp of approval is valida-

tion to the EQTL of Washington, D.C., which

commitment of our competent staff as we continue

any noted deficiencies and received

an applicant may have) and affords any

in innovation and emerging technologies.

tion that UDC produces graduates who are

is located on the University of the District

to build quality programs at UDC to improve the

recognition as excellent program for

licensed nurse (AA Graduate or Diploma

Engineering Accreditation Commission of

well-qualified to enter the job market and

of Columbia’s Van Ness campus. The lab is

quality of life and economic opportunities for our

providing degree opportunities for area

Graduate) an opportunity to obtain a

ABET accredits engineering programs and

equally competitive with those from other

now certified for testing minerals and trace

District residents,” stated William Hare, associate

nurses who lack the Bachelor’s Degree

Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing. The

Computing Accreditation Commission ac-

local area institutions,” says Shetty. “Our stu-

metals in potable and non-potable waters in

dean of programs, CAUSES.

in Nursing. The six standards included

major requirement for acceptance is a

credits computer science. School of Engi-

dents are well-placed in both government and

accordance with the provisions of the National

The Lab is also supported by of the Department of

an evaluation of the program’s mission

current license to practice in the Nursing

neering and Applied Science’s (SEAS) reac-

industry at major companies like Intell, Apple,

Environmental Laboratory Accreditation

Energy and Environment, which provided $600,000

and administrative capacity; the quality

Profession.

credited programs include bachelor degree

Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrup-Grum-

Conference (NELAC) Standards.

though a three year Memorandum of Understanding

and credentials of faculty and staff; pol-

“The reaffirmation of our accredita-

programs in Civil Engineering (BSCE),

mand, Booz Allen Construction and the U.S.

as initial startup funds for the Lab.

Electrical Engineering (BSEE) and Me-

Patent Office,” he proudly asserts.

icies and services for its students; the

tion has been a tremendous recognition

Quality Testing Lab was constructed to

“We are grateful for the partnership forged and

quality and currency of the program’s

of our hard work; from the faculty and

Opening in 2012, the Environmental

chanical Engineering (BSME) and Bache-

ABET is a nonprofit, non-governmental

give District residents a convenient and

appreciative of their commitment to utilize our lab

curriculum; human and physical re-

students, to the University’s commitment

lor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS).

organization recognized by the Council for

affordable way of testing water and soil for

services to benefit District residents,” said Hare.

sources for the program; and how well

to the success of the RN to BS nursing

The reaccreditation of our engineering and

Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

environmental contaminants and other

The certification of the lab will directly benefit D.C.

the program assess and make appropri-

program,” stated Dr. Pier Broadnax, BSN

computer science programs indicates the

More information about ABET, its member

impurities; and to serve as an unbiased

residents by giving them a local option for common

ate changes or improvements. The pro-

program director. “The general public has

strengths of our academic offerings, some

societies, and the accreditation criteria used

monitor of surface, ground and municipal

assessments such as water quality and soil quality

cess included an opportunity for third

also demonstrated their support, sharing

of which have been accredited since 1976,

to evaluate programs can be found at www.

water quality in D.C., helping to protect water

testing. Currently, residents must pay for these lab-

party (external stakeholders) to make

stories of the role we’ve had in improving

when the first engineering degree program

abet.org.

resources and human health. The Laboratory

oratory services outside of the District.

comments regarding the program’s im-

the health of District residents.”

40

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41

TRADITIONS

The Founders’ Day celebration was presided

“I think 100 years later we are just like

over by UDC Interim President James E. Lyons,

Myrtilla Miner,” Henderson said. “We are driven

Sr., Ph.D. Greetings were offered from Elaine A.

by similar ideas. People are calling us cranks,

Crider, D.H.Sc., Chair, UDC Board of Trustees;

but we are striving to spark our own revolution

Phil Mendelson, Chairman, Council of the Dis-

right here in DC public schools and at UDC.”

trict of Columbia; and DC Mayor Muriel Bowser.

A dedicated teacher, Myrtilla Miner was

Those who sat in the packed audience

born 200 years ago on March 4, 1815. Con-

were moved by songs performed by students

sidered by some to be the “mother” of public

from the Myrtilla Miner Elementary School

education in the nation’s capital through her

Glee Club directed by Martin R. Ford, AA,

desire to see children educated regardless of

BMEd.; as well as the University of the District

race, creed or class.

The seeds for higher education she planted

goals and objectives. The award is named after

Ms. Reatha Cook Haden, for the Dr. Cleveland

in founding her school has transitioned through

the former President of District of Columbia

L. Dennard Distinguished Award, presented to

of Excellence in Education” was meaningful

a series of mergers including the District of

Teachers College.

an individual who has demonstrated long-term

for students and participants who attended

Columbia Teachers College, the Federal City

the institutions that preceded UDC.

College, and the Washington Technical Institute

Mr. Selvon Malcolm Waldron, for The Hon-

University of the District of Columbia. The

into a single management system under the

orable Ronald H. Brown Distinguished Leader-

award is named in honor of the former Pres-

University of the District of Columbia.

ship Award, awarded to an individual who has

ident of Washington Technical Institute.

“I am very committed to having a UDC that won’t just be here now, but for the next generation

Honoring the Legacy of Myrtilla Miner

BY DIANNE HAYES

S

commitment and outstanding service to the

and the generation after that,” Mayor Bowser said.

Today, UDC offers more than 50 undergrad-

demonstrated outstanding leadership in his/her

“UDC for me is not an academic discussion.

uate and graduate academic degree programs

profession and whose work has contributed to

Dr. Floretta Dukes McKenzie, for the Distin-

My mother went to UDC as a married woman

through the College of Arts and Sciences, the

the improvement of one’s community and its

guished Alumni of the Year Award, presented to

with five kids and a full-time job. She was able

School of Business and Public Administra-

citizens on a local, national and international

an active member of the UDC National Alumni

to change the trajectory of not only her life but

tion, the School of Engineering and Applied

level. The award is named in Honor of former U.

Society for five (5) years or more and who has

the lives of her five children because she was

Sciences, the College of Agriculture, Urban

S. Secretary of Commerce and former Chairman

demonstrated extraordinary participation

able to improve her education.”

Sustainability and Environmental Sciences

of the University of the District of Columbia

in the association through contributions

“She worked for many years in the gov-

(CAUSES), and the David A. Clarke School

Board of Trustees.

to the Alumni Society, including increasing

ernment and retired as the chief nurse at St.

of Law. In addition, it also prepares students

Elizabeths (Hospital). That is the path that

through its Community College.

we want to make sure that students at the

The 2015 Founders’ Day Awards were

University of the District of Columbia know

presented by UDC Community College CEO

that they can chart for themselves.”

Dianna G. Phillips.

tudents,faculty,alumniandWashington

The convocation address was presented

-DC dignitaries came out in full force

by DC Public School Superintendent Kaya

2015 Founders’ Day Honorees:

for the bicentennial birthday celebra-

Henderson, who reminded the audience of

Mr. Maurice Sykes, for the Dr. Marjorie

tion of UDC’s Founder Myrtilla Miner.

the challenges that Myrtilla Miner faced from

Holloman Parker Distinguished Educator’s

Honoring the unyielding tenacity of a

naysayers including Frederick Douglass to fol-

Award, presented to an individual whose laud-

woman who worked against all odds to create

low her dream of creating a “school for colored

able contributions as an educator have made

opportunities for African-American girls, had an

girls” in 1851 – which became the foundation

a discernable difference in the city or nation’s

even greater significance as the foundation for

for public education in DC.

schools, colleges, universities or private insti-

“Frederick Douglass called her a ‘crank.’ He

UDC – an institution that has undergone several

– KAYA HENDERSON, DCPS CHANCELLOR

This year’s theme, “Celebrating a Legacy

of Columbia Chorale.

UDC Founders’ Day

“ One-hundred years later we are just like Myrtilla Miner… We are driven by similar ideas… and striving to spark our own revolution.”

tutions of learning.

thought she was crazy,” Henderson said. “She

transformations and touched so many lives.

What was once the Miner School for Col-

decided if that’s the kind of crazy I’m supposed

Patricia M. Myers, Ed. D., for the Dr. Paul

ored Girls evolved into Washington, DC’s only

to be then I will be that kind of crazy. From

Phillips Cooke Lifetime Achievement Award,

public university, offering a pipeline to higher

that one-room school house Myrtilla Miner

presented to a faculty or staff member who has

education through a community college, under-

This year marked the 200th birthday of

sparked a revolution that flourished despite the

consistently demonstrated exceptional loyalty

Student Leaders deliver joint presentation honoring the legacy of Myrtilla Miner. Pictured left to right are Jino P.Ray,

graduate programs, and law school. Few would

UDC Founder, Myrtilla Miner who was born

obstacles. Douglass came back and corrected

and extraordinary commitment, dedication and

Student Bar Association; Tamon George, Graduate Student Government Association; Theo Wilhite, Student Government

doubt that Miner would be proud.

on March 4, 1815.

his misconception.”

servicetotheadvancementoftheUniversityandits

Association; Natasha Bennett, Board of Trustees; and, Dianne Hawkins Community College Student Government.

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43

TRADITIONS

ARTS AND SCIENCES

in a reserved section exclusively designated for Path Maker Awardees.

Dr. Samuel E. Myers is awarded the Myrtilla Miner Award for Exceptional Service to Society. This award is bestowed on the person the President of the University determines has demonstrated exceptional lifetime service to the residents of the District of Columbia and the nation.

Three students are awarded the first Humanitarian and Civic Engagement Award, Students from the Myrtilla Miner Elementary School Glee Club perform “I’m Talkin’ Education” under the direction of UDC Alumni, Martin R. Ford (AA, BM.Ed).

which will be presented annually to students who have demonstrated a commitment to activism, social responsibility, civic participation and advocacy for the welfare and benefit of the

Setting New Standard for Preparing the Next Generation of SpeechLanguage Pathologists

T

he College of Arts and Sciences, Speech-Language Pathology program has long been applauded for its commitment to a high quality experience for its students. The pro-

gram is a recognized UDC Center of Excellence and a fully accredited professional program

University of the District of Columbia and the

(CAA -- Council on Academic Accreditation

greater community.

in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology,

membership participation, enhancing the

and to an employee of the University of the

image of the association, showing professional

District of Columbia who have consistently

The recipients this year are:

accredited continuously since 1981). Since its

ethics of the highest caliber, and engaging in

supported the University and its students

• Mr. Nuah Siaka, College of Agriculture,

inception, the Speech-Language Pathology

the community.

through their commitment to philanthropy.

Urban Sustainability & Environmental Sciences

program at UDC has been a strong compet-

The Award highlights the importance of alumni

• Ms. Marcha Theilma, UDC Community

itor across the region and nationally, both

Dr. Sandra G. Yates and Dr. LaVerne Earley

and employee giving. Each year, the names of

are awarded the PathMaker Award. This inau-

selected recipients will be prominently dis-

gural award is given to an alumnus or alumna

played on the Dr. Cleveland L. Dennard Plaza

College • Mr. Albert A. Ortiz, UDC David A. Clarke Law School

in attracting students and producing highly

Accredited in 1981, the speech-language pathology program is distinguished as the first professional training program at a historically Black college and university (HBCU) and has been designated by the University as a center of excellence.

has broadened its reach throughout the DC metropolitan community. Program students, faculty, and staff are serving the speech, language, and hearing needs of residents young and old via a full service on campus clinic, cross-region placements for student training, and community partnerships. During academic year 201415, through its screening initiative alone, the program provided roughly 1000 screenings in senior and preschool centers around the city.

Visit us on the web at http://www.udc.edu/ cue/ms_speech_language_pathology to learn more about the program and available services.

competitive and sought after graduates. These outcomes bode well for program graduates and the profession. Our students complete this program expertly prepared and ready to

This document, printed in the Founders’ Day program booklet, is a replica of a handwritten letter from the Frederick Douglass Papers, which is part of a collection of materials located at the U.S. Library of Congress.

enter and elevate the profession. Moreover, the program has benefitted doubly from the successes of its students. Student outcomes, which include 100% student success rates on

One day forty years ago, while publishing “The North Star” newspaper in Rochester, N.Y., a young

national examination, progression to degree,

lady called at my office to consult with me and to obtain my opinion as to the feasibility of estab-

and employment, feed program accreditation

lishing here in Washington, a school for the education of colored girls. She said she had an idea

and standing. Equally as important, program

of establishing such a school herself. I was at the time of her visit, busily employed in mailing my

graduates provide an amazing pipeline for our

paper, but the purpose announced was so novel and startling as to cause me to stop my work and

own staffing needs. Currently 60% of program

to look up with amazement at the lady.

faculty/staff are UDC alums. With faculty

The word “crank” now in common use was employed only to designate a certain point of

expertise that crosses children and adults and

thinking. But had it been in use of now, I should pronounce this lady a full member of that large

disorders of speech and language, Dr. Wanda

and growing family.

Mitchener-Colston (MS ‘73) is guiding the

I soon saw however that she was not about to be disposed of. She possessed those quali-

44

program to new heights. Program alums are

ties which never fail to command respectful attention. She was educated. She was refined, dignified and in earnest. I saw too that my

pacesetters for evolving pedagogies that meld

amazement at the boldness of her enterprise had but little effect on her mind, so I began to argue against her undertaking. I pointed out

theory and practice, bridge the clinical and

the danger and hardships that awaited her, and the certain failure of her measure. She listened to all I had to say, but finally and firmly

sociocultural elements of the profession, and

responded “I shall try it” and try it she did. She encountered all the dangers and hardship I predicted, but she persevered and victory

integrate requirements for efficacy-based, in-

UDC alums taking lead in SLP preparation include (left – right): Prof. Myesha Carter, BS 2004, MS 2006; Dr.

crowned her efforts.

ter-professional, and research-driven patient

Richard Kalunga, MS 1998; Dr. Wanda Mitchener-Colston, MS 1973; Dr. Natalie Ottey, MS 1995; Dr. Angela Brad-

care. With new faculty and staff, the program

ford-Wainwright, MS 1997; Mrs. Weynshet Demessie, BS 2010.

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45

PHOTO BY TYLER MCCOY ROGERS

UDC PRESIDENT

Ronald Mason Leadership for the Future

BY DIANNE HAYES

Behind his pleasant smile and demeanor is a man on a mission. A seasoned administrator, UDC President Ronald Mason Jr. has been preparing his entire life for an opportunity like the one presented to him to lead the only public university in the nation’s capital, serving more than 5,100 students. 

46

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47

Mason recently served as president of

public institution for the nation’s capital, but

African-American freshman at Jesuit High

the Southern University and A&M College

also an example that draws students from all

School in New Orleans.

System in Louisiana, providing oversight for

corners of the world.”

When it comes to his core values, the answer

its five campuses. He brings nearly 35 years of

is simple – it is all about the students.

experience in higher education management,

He carried his family’s love and support with him even when they couldn’t always be there for games and activities.

legal representation, public policy, community

His student-centered approach is at the

He recalls scoring the winning points in

development coordination, and urban renewal.

heart of his desire to continue efforts to build

the last few minutes of an intramural football

an institution that develops the best prepared

game and watching the crowd rush the players,

students, which encompasses quality faculty and

but no one came to him except the dean of

staff, active alumni, a strong DC constituency

admissions from Columbia University, who

and outreach to public and charter schools to

had come to recruit him.

He is also the former president of Jackson State University and worked as senior vice president, general counsel and vice president for finance and operations at Tulane University.

An attorney, activist for the underprivileged, educator and administrator, President Mason comes to UDC with his eyes wide open to the opportunities and challenges awaiting him.

UDC Board Chair Dr. Elaine A. Crider points to Mason’s track record of community involvement and “unique experience” with Louisiana’s “highly charged politics as “an asset” that will serve him well to “navigate” the political dynamics in the nation’s capital.

“I am very excited to have President Mason here,” Dr. Crider said. “He brings a wealth of experience, not just as an HBCU president, he has also handled significantly challenging political environments. There are concerns that the university has to address and improve. I believe that it is something he is equipped to handle.”

“I am most excited that he is an operations person. In addition to being an attorney, he has been involved in university operations. He knows firsthand what good operations processes are and what the university must have in place.

“With a new policy direction and a new president to guide this university to be a university of choice and be respected as a stateof-the-art university, our hope and our dream is to operate in a way to attract the best of the best in the District of Columbia. We want to see UDC respected not only as the premiere

48

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President Ronald Mason Jr. Age: 62 Hometown: New Orleans, La. Family: Married, father of three, one daughter and two sons Education: Undergraduate and law degree from Columbia University, Harvard Institute of Educational Management Higher Education Experience: President of Southern University and A&M College system, 20102015; President of Jackson State University, 2000-2010; Tulane University various administrative roles during 18 years including corporate secretary, general counsel, vice president for finance and operations, senior vice president, and founder and executive director of the National Center for Urban Community at Tulane and Xavier universities Hobbies: Weightlifting, calisthenics, writing music lyrics, renovating houses, and tennis Personal Philosophy: “Do the best you can with each and every day.”

strengthen the pipeline of future students.

“He called me on the side and started

His arrival comes with anticipation of

talking,” Mason said, who was the only Afri-

visionary leadership to develop partnerships

can-American student on the field. “He talked

Since July, President Mason has kept busy getting to know students, faculty, and staff; monitoring new

that will provide a bridge to the district’s public

me into going to Columbia. It was my first time

Student Center construction; and, rolling-out his plans to implement Vision 2020.

schools and collaboration with city programs

on an airplane. It changed my life.”

to make higher education more accessible.

Mason received his B.A. degree in History

“I welcome Ronald Mason to the District

and J.D. from Columbia University. He also

through which he was able to harness the

were set up, apartments were repaired, and

of Columbia and look forward to collaborat-

earned an advance degree from the Harvard

resources of both institutions to bring about

programs were put in place to help residents

ing to develop programs and initiatives that

Institute of Educational Management.

social and economic change in New Orleans.

obtain business loans.

will create pathways to the middle class for residents and the entire student body,” said

He is married and has a daughter, Nia, and sons, Jared, and Kenan.

DC Mayor Muriel E. Bowser. “I congratulate

While serving as Tulane’s highest ranking

Mason also created the Campus Affiliates

administrative officer, he helped formulate a

Program, which brought 600 students and 100

policy that would make involvement in urban af-

faculty to help with job skills and job-readiness training, tutoring, and teen counseling.

the board of the University of the District of

Making a Mark in Higher Education

fairs a high priority for the university. Mason

Columbia for selecting a leader with a wealth

After finishing law school, Mason returned to

and Tulane’s President Eamon Kelly drafted a

Mason served as the Southern University

of experience as they work to transform the

Louisiana to work for the Southern Coopera-

proposal for a modest neighborhood-improve-

System president from 2010 to 2014. Prior to

District’s public university.”

tive Development Fund in Lafayette. While

ment scheme and submitted it to the U.S. De-

that, from 2000-2010, he was president of Jack-

acting as a community organizer, he met an

partment of Housing and Urban Development.

son State University in Mississippi, the state’s

The Man Behind the Mission

official with the Ford Foundation who later

That proposal caught the attention of U.S.

largest HBCU, where he grew the enrollment U

The eldest of six, Mason was born and raised

went on to become the president of Tulane

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development

with a student enrollment from 6,400 to 91,00

in New Orleans to hard-working parents who

University. He was so impressed with Ma-

Henry Cisneros, who offered Mason an opportu-

students when he departed.

valued family and education. His father was

son’s work that he asked him to become Tu-

nity to direct and manage the Housing Authority

As an educational leader, Mason has been

a mailman and his mother was a homemaker

lane’s legal counsel.

of New Orleans. At the time, it was one of the

involved in numerous organizations including

and became a cook when his siblings got older.

Mason spent 18 years at Tulane working

most beleaguered public housing agencies in

serving as chairman of the Educational Testing

“We didn’t have a lot of money growing up,

in various administrative capacities including

the nation. Faced with a high murder rate, drugs

Service; chairman of the White House HBCU Ad-

but my Dad’s primary investment was putting

senior vice president, general counsel and

and intense infrastructure problems, fraud

visory Committee’s subcommittee on Increasing

us through Catholic school,” Mason said.

vice president for finance and operations.

and scandal – Mason made impactful change.

Black Male Baccalaureates; the American Uni-

His willingness to make his mark and to

He was founder and executive director of

He brought in qualified leadership and

versity of Nigeria board of directors and finance

carve out new paths began early in life. An altar

the National Center for Urban Community

set up a residents’ advisory council in order

committee member; Thurgood Marshall College

boy and popular athlete, Mason was the first

at Tulane and nearby Xavier universities,

to give tenants a voice. Police substations

Fund, board of directors member; Council For

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49

UDC PRESIDENT REVEALS VISION 2020 EXECUTION PLAN As a member of the White House Board of Advisors for Historically Black Colleges and Universities,

BY STAFF WRITER

Mason has discussed key education policy issues with President Obama.

USING SPORTS METAPHORS FOR

rates that are 17 percent for African

his Vision 2020 presentation during

Americans and 2.7 percent for whites.

the Fall Convocation, University of the

Mason said. “The talent we recruit is

46 percent from three wards of the city,

when the program was developed in 2012. “If

Mason, Jr., shared his game plan,

our students, members of the ultimate

non-traditional age students, and 10

you just take Louisiana for example, 74 percent

“Winning in 2020: Building a Champi-

Firebird Nation.”

percent registered as international.

of the people in jail are black, over 90 percent

onship Team,” to take the University to

are men, pretty much a national phenomenon

the next level.

or two ways.”

“There is no science that says black men are

His numerous honors and awards include the Mayor’s Medal of Honor from the city of New Orleans; the Martin Luther King Lifetime Achievement Award from Dillard, Loyola, Tulane and Xavier universities; the Columbia University John Jay Award for distinguished professional achievement; the Mayes Johnson Award from the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Education; Educator of the Year, Thurgood Marshall College Fund; Alumnus of the Year, Columbia College, Columbia Uni-

“ There are a lot of good things going on here, but sometimes the noise gets in the way of truth.”

the audience filled with students, alum-

America,” he said.

ni, board members, faculty and staff.

— RONALD MASON, JR.

well-thought-out Vison 2020 strategic

systemic change, and establish a research policy

plan, he pointed out that it is missing

institute to educate the public about the impact

the blueprint on “how to get there.”

Mason’s presentation covered topics including recruitment and retention – es-

Stars” program, which identified young men

pecially successfully retaining incoming

with low GPA and SAT scores, but who exhibited

freshman, developing servant leaders

positive traits based on recommendations from

in support of all students, strengthening

counselors or pastors and personal interviews

internal operations, improving gradu-

for admission to the university.

ation rates, and helping students to be prepared to compete globally.

He also plans to work to surpass

Mason presents as an open book and can be

the national average annual salary

found meeting with students, faculty and

of graduates receiving federal aid 10

versity; and the Citizenship Award from the

staff, alumni, DC leaders and any of UDC’s

years out from $34,000 to $45,000.

Louisiana Bureau of Governmental Research.

stakeholders, seeking input and insight as

dentials of value in the labor market

the university.

and in life, but we also want to bind

truth to the conversation about the relationship between America and African-American men.

Even before his official first day, Mason

our graduates together by a culture of

Educating and developing African-Ameri-

In addition, it was designed to increase the

made a few trips to begin getting acquainted

enlightened self-interest,” Mason said.

can males has long been one of Mason’s pas-

number of college degrees and the number of

with people to learn more about expectations,

Mason acknowledged the existing

sions. He has served as a national spokes-

African-American male teachers.

goals and desires from various groups.

challenges facing the University and

person and on numerous panels to discuss

The “Five-Fifths Agenda” was based on the

“I’m talking to everybody,” Mason said. “City

remedies to improve the lives of young Afri-

three-fifth compromise between Southern and

Council members, the mayor, board members,

affluence on one side and 18 percent

can-American males.

Northern states. It stated that three-fifths of

staff members, students, and alumni, just to

poverty on the other – (2 percent above

the population of slaves would be counted for

get a sense of it. There are a lot of good things

the national average). Other factors

representation purposes.

going on here. Sometimes the noise gets in the

include disparity in unemployment

Responding to national crisis of high incarat Southern University, Mason spearheaded an

“The goal of the Five-Fifths agenda is to

initiative “Five-Fifths Agenda for America,” a

make America whole by reclaiming and devel-

demonstration project with the goals of bringing

oping black male human capital,” Mason said,

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25 percent.

10 GOALS FOR FIRST YEAR VISION 2020

the population it serves, which has

Ultimately, Mason’s implementation of Vision 2020 calls for a focus on measured student outcomes through:: • Strong leadership and culture

+ Successful Middle States Reaffirmation

• Guided learning pathways and well-paying jobs • Intentional focus on improving

+ Title IV Good Standing

teaching and learning • Strategic data uses to improve

+ Finalize Productive Union Contracts + Organize and Staff System-wide Office of Student Support + Assess and Coordinate Academic Progress System wide + Organize and Staff System-wide Office of Shared Services

practice and closing equity gaps • Partnerships and structure aligned to define student outcomes in and outside of the institution He also addressed the need to work on the University branding.

“We have brand challenges,” Mason said. “It’s gotten better in the last couple of years. It is something we

“We not only want to offer cre-

he works toward developing his plan for

Commitment to Helping AfricanAmerican Males

ceration rates of African-American males, while

graduation rate from 16 percent to

While Mason acknowledged the

lish HBCUs as institutional bases for long-term

The UDC Vision

Mason’s targeted goals for 2020 includes improving the blended

Board of Trustees Chair Elaine A. Crider,

else, then there must be something wrong in

Southern University piloted the “Hidden

mentals before you move on.”

“Today, UDC is on a journey … I

as she introduced President Mason to

of this issue on America’s future.

“You have to lock down the funda-

can feel the excitement in the air,” said

born to make bad choices more than everybody

The “Five-Fifths Agenda” was also to estab-

American Dream 2.0 Coalition member.

prised of 56 percent part-time students,

District of Columbia President Ronald

and you can only explain those statistics in one

Aid to Education board member; and the Gates

“This is the home field we play in,”

The University of the District of Columbia’s talent pool of 5,286 is com-

+ Three-year Financial Plan + Assess, Update and Organize Policies and Procedures + Assess, Upgrade and Modernize Business Processes + Organize and Staff Office of External Affairs

will work on, because the perception is not the reality of where we are as an institution.”

In order to reach the goals set for Vision 2020, Mason highlighted his team of “servant leaders” who are enlisted to implement the strategies for success. He summed it up with a quote from President Barack Obama, “We did not come to fear the future, we came here to shape it.”

way of truth.”

“There’s a lot of noise that we will have to work our way through.”

WWW.UDC. EDU

51

At the core, Mason hopes to have all involved parties working toward the same goal of unencumbered student success.

“To be a model public institution of higher learning in the nation’s capital means different things to different people based on my conversations,” Mason said. “If you ask me what it

1000 WORDS

means, I think first it means you offer a pathway to success to every student who wants to be PHOTO BY TYLER MCCOY ROGERS

successful. That applies to higher graduation rates, higher job placement rates, and stronger student support systems. It means having strong relationship with the business community. It implies that you can run business like a business, and that you can process students in ways that the processing doesn’t get in the way of doing the other things you have to do. It means that you have the right things in the right order.”

“It’s all about the students and everything ties in to that.”

His approach is one of transparency with

better by them, both in terms of their experience

a goal of uniting all invested parties to move

as customers but also the support they need

With a background shaped by mentors

UDC forward.

from the institution in order to be successful

including a priest, economist, corporate lawyer

“It is an interesting combination of chal-

in life with whatever path they choose to take.”

and civil rights activist, they all helped to shape

lenges and opportunities,” Mason said. “The

To alumni: “I think it’s time that we started

his view of the world and career experiences.

opportunity is to be the national model for

to think about one UDC. There’s a lot of roots

Mason brings passion, enthusiasm and opti-

public institutions of higher learning. The more

to this tree, but at the end of the day there’s

mism to his new role at UDC.

I talk to people, the more I realize how real that

just one tree. We need to start figuring out a

When asked if he is up for the challenge,

opportunity is. On the other hand, the challenges

way to value those roots while at the same

Mason stated, “I’m supposed to be here. As I

are very deep. There is a schizophrenia of sorts

time embrace the tree.”

look back over more than 30 years of my career,

about what UDC is and what it wants to be.”

And for faculty, Mason has met with many

it all got me ready for what I think this job is. I’m

“The first challenge is to get everybody on

faculty members individually, and has met reg-

at a place in my career, level of understanding,

the same page, whatever that page is for UDC

ularly with the President of the Faculty Senate.

energy and wisdom that we can make a run at

now and what it will be five years from now.”

“You’ve got to know the people, you’ve got to

this and actually pull it off. I’m excited about

Mason points out a particular opportunity

know the players and I’m getting to know them.”

the potential of it and ready to get to work.”

to strengthen the pipeline to UDC. “One of the big opportunities is that UDC offers a higher education system that at least structurally, is tied indirectly with the K-12 system. If you can connect the dots on the continuum of learning, you have a real opportunity to connect with students, which has to be a part of the conversation.”

Mason is focused heavily on student success and improving the graduation rate with a keen understanding that those accomplishments require support from all levels.

His message to students: “We commit to do

52

FA L L 2 01 5

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER Tyler McCoy Rogers is a second-year student at the University of the District of Columbia Community College, majoring in graphic design. The DC native plans to major in photography.

Rogers took it upon himself to capture the initial activities, press conference and visits of President Mason. Rogers discovered his interest in photography at the age of 6 when he was given a disposable camera as a gift.

He can frequently be found capturing Washington, DC from his unique perspective.

WWW.UDC. EDU

53

HOL A! CUBA

BY JONET TA ROSE BARRAS

Even before U.S. President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro announced the restoration of diplomatic relations between their two countries, the University of the District of Columbia, through its David A. Clarke School of Law, sealed its own historic deal. It signed a memorandum of understanding creating an exchange program between it and the University of Havana, which many call Cuba’s Harvard.

From the outside, securing that pact may have seemed

affairs at UDC, who, in July with a group that included

serendipitous. It wasn’t. It is testimony to years of hard,

other faculty members from the flagship and community

visionary work, vigilance and the continuing influence

college campus, also went to Cuba.

of the UDC--its faculty and its graduates.

nation and securing the MOU may have begun when “We

gressive community does. It’s an extraordinary place in

had [actor] Danny Glover do a program on the Cuban 5,”

our hemisphere.” Shelley Broderick, dean of UDC’s law

said Broderick.

school told Legacy Magazine.

54

FA L L 2 01 5

UDC’s most recent journey to the Caribbean island

“We have had a lot of interest in Cuba as every pro-

A group of intelligence officers, the Cuban 5 were

“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for the two

arrested in 1998, as they reportedly sought to infiltrate

universities,” said Valerie Epps, vice president of student

anti-Cuban organizations in Miami. They were subse-

WWW.UDC. EDU

55

At the University of Havana, from left: Rafael Cox

munities to reinstate diplomatic relations

that when Broderick’s husband died two years

Epps agreed, noting that she expects the

Alomar, professor at the University of the District of

and remove trade and other embargoes. But

ago, there were legal documents in place that

relationship to extend to all of UDC. “That’s

Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law; Law School

those mostly fell on proverbial deaf ears.

enforced implementation of his wishes.

the reason the interim president went on

Some of that was changing as Broderick

“In Cuba they haven’t done that,” explained

the [June] trip.” She said in July she and her

council member; and James Lyons, former interim

and her team prepared for their visit, and

Broderick. “It’s pretty much left up to the doctor.”

colleagues focused their attention on arts and

president of UDC. (Credit: Jocelyn Lyons)

there was excitement in both countries.

Broderick said UDC’s law students and fac-

culture, speaking with faculty engaged in art

“They really put on the dog for us, and we

ulty will help prepare a report on best practices

restoration and architecture, for example. Some

were extraordinarily appreciative.”

in senior law and provide “model legislation”

members of the group visited the American

for the review of the University of Havana

embassy. Dr. Hermina Peters and I attended

faculty and students.

a July 4th celebration at what would be the

Dean Shelley Broderick; Mary Cheh, D.C. Ward 3

PHOTO BY JOCELYN LYONS

Broderick said the UDC team met with “the rector, who is in effect the president of the University.” They also met with the law

Further, as the country opens its doors to

official residence of the the American ambas-

and challenge people in government, who

school dean and several faculty members.

the rest of the world, particularly the United

sador. “We got to meet others ambassadors

abuse their authority, or who fail to use their

They provided orientation over a three-day

States, foreign investors are sure to follow.

from embassies in the community.

positions to help the people who depend on

period. It included a review of the legal system,

Cubans realize they “have to develop new

them most,” Rieser continued.

explanations of the judiciary and a tutorial on

laws that give international investors a level

how laws are made.

of comfort.

“I was lucky to find Antioch when I did, and what I learned in those two years had a lot to

There is much to praise about Cuba—its

“We are going to be working with them on

do with every career decision I’ve made since.”

people, its culture, and some of its policies. For

those kinds of things,” said Broderick. Cuban

“I was in a dream world because of all the possibilities,” added Epps.

The Way Forward The bridge to Cuba is a two-way blessing. Stu-

Broderick said during Rieser’s first UDC

dents there could come to the United States

appearance, he spoke to a packed room. Rep-

for courses during the summer months. Stu-

resentatives from the Cuban Interests Section,

dents from UDC could go to Havana. Obvi-

essentially the country’s embassy, were in the audience and “talked [with her] about an exchange” between UDC and the University of Havana, “where Fidel Castro went 70 years ago.”

They asked her whether she wanted to visit.

“I said ‘I want to go at the earliest time.’

The original plan to go in May didn’t work out,

“ There is a simpatico between us [UDC] and the University of Havana Law School. We don’t see ourselves as having all the answers.

We see ourselves as partners.”

ously there is “massive enthusiasm for this opportunity,” said Broderick.

Over the next several months, the two universities will complete the framework for the law school exchange program. But already faculty members and select students are preparing to begin research around legal issues of

quently convicted of several charges including

was helping the White House think differently,

and we went in June.” Also on that trip were

conspiracy to commit espionage and to commit

and changing the way we and the Cubans talk

interim UDC president James Lyons, Professor

murder. Two of the three were released from

to each other– which was a process that took

Rafael A. Cox Alomar and D.C. Council mem-

prison in 2011, and returned to Cuban.

several years.

ber Mary Cheh, a constitutional lawyer who

routinely used the phrase ‘in keeping with

represents Ward 3 in which UDC’s flagship

the values of the revolution.’ We speak more

On Dec. 17, 2014, the other three prisoners

“It involved meetings between Sen. Leahy

were turned over to the Cuban government.

(D-Vermont) and Fidel and Raul Castro, and

In exchange for their freedom, Alan Phillip

other Cuban officials in Havana, New York

Gross, a Cuban-American contractor was

and Washington,” Rieser told UDC law school

allowed to finally come home. He had been

students last spring before the school signed

held in a Cuban prison allegedly for spy-

its MOU.

ing—although he denied involvement in any

– SHELLEY BRODERICK, LAW SCHOOL DEAN

campus is located.

“The University of Havana greeted us with

importance to Cubans for which the UDC has a level of expertise.

Broderick said many university officials

in terms of the values of our Constitution.” example, it was providing free health care to

officials have little to worry about. A fairly liberal

But UDC could very well use such a phrase.

its citizens long before Obama won passage of

institution, the Clarke School of Law has built

Its success has, in no small measure, resulted

the Affordable Health Care Act. Its law school

a solid reputation on speaking for the dispos-

for the retention of the values and somewhat

The Meeting

students are guaranteed a job upon graduation.

sessed, the distressed and the disenfranchised.

revolutionary actions of its founders and early

Equally important, Rieser is a graduate

When Fidel Castro visited the United States

But, as can be imagined, its economy has strug-

Its students helped to free dozens of Louisiana

financial supporters including Charlie and Hilda Mason and Edgar and Jean Cahns.

open arms,” said Broderick.

of Antioch law School, the predecessor of the

back in the mid-20th Century just after he

gled, exacerbated by a seemingly uninterrupted

residents who were disadvantaged by the near

When Broderick learned of what she de-

David A. Clarke Law School. Critical to his

and his comrades’ successful revolution,

migration of its young citizens, many to the

disintegration of the Louisiana State prison

scribed as “the rapprochement,” she invited Tim

development, he said, was the law clinics, pio-

most Americans, particularly those in Wash-

United States.

system following Hurricane Katrina. UDC

Rieser, a member of U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy’s

neered by UDC and that continue today. Back

ington, D.C., were excited and embraced him.

That latter reality has resulted in a large

staff, to speak at the university.

when he attended, he worked with tenants and

But soon after that trip, the unsuccessful Bay

population of senior citizens. In fact, Cuba has

Central American immigrants.

of Pigs was launched, and things between the

one of the fourth largest such communities in

“There is simpatico between us and the

whose byline has appeared in numerous pub-

such activities.

Rieser was no ordinary staffer. He had been

“We have a rich legacy,” said Broderick, “and we are moving it forward.”

students also have offered their expertise in places like Arizona and Mississippi.

Jonetta Rose Barras is a freelance writer

intimately involved with negotiating Gross’s

“My experiences in those clinics made a

U.S. and Cuba turned sour very fast. Over the

Latin America, noted Broderick. The United

University Of Havana Law School,” said Brod-

lications including The Washington Post, the

release and that of the remaining three Cuban

lasting impression on me. I think most import-

years, there have been calls from political,

States, especially the District of Columbia, has

erick. “We don’t see ourselves as having all the

Washington Examiner, the Washington Times,

intelligence officers. “An important part of it

ant, it reinforced in me the need to question

cultural, artistic and humanitarian com-

various protections for the elderly. Consider

answers. We see ourselves as partners.”

and USA Today.

56

FA L L 2 01 5

WWW.UDC. EDU

57

O

n the 50th

Five decades after watching “my first man

ic murder of three Arab-American students

slave, every suffragette set the pace for those

anniversary of

taken in front of my own eyes,” Shabazz said,

in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

who came after,” she noted.

M a l c o l m X ’s

she still remembers, and just couldn’t attend

“We are all alike because of this crisis”,

As a Muslim ambassador and the daughter

assassination,

the previous week’s commemoration. Today,

she said. “We are witnesses to various kinds

of one of the most renowned civil rights leaders,

the eldest

Shabazz is a writer, teacher, mentor ­— and a

of slaughter, globally.” She went on to say

Ambassador Shabazz was able to bridge the gap

daughter of the

daughter still trying to clarify her father’s place

that it was dangerous to think of those on

between these two communities

revolutionary

in history. She said that she was disturbed

the other side of the world as “them”, and

civil rights

by the tendency for modern day activists to

we are “us”.

While Ambassador Shabazz was the keynote speaker, there were other participants in the

leader said she wanted to be as far from the

distort her father’s words to

event. Arab America president Warren David

stage of New York City’s Audubon Ballroom as

support their own agenda.

said his organization wanted to celebrate Black

she could. Rather than attend commemorative

While the UDC pro-

History Month because many Arab countries

events at the spot where her father lost

gram marked Black History

are in Africa and many Arab Americans and

his life, Attallah Shabazz opted instead to

Month, it was also an occa-

African Americans share the Muslim faith.

perform humanitarian service in the Central

sion for African and Mus-

Sadly, both communities are “denigrated for

American nation of Belize, where she serves

lim-Americans to discuss the

their ethnicity,” David said.

as Ambassador-at-Large and advisor on

challenges and adversities

“The challenge of creating a unified com-

International Cultural Affairs. A week later,

that both groups faced in the

munity belongs to everyone,” said Interim

she returned to the United States and spoke

past and still experience to-

Humanitarian and author Attallah Shabazz reflects on the life and legacy of her father Malcolm X at the

University President, Dr. James Lyons, who

at the University of the District of Columbia

day. The timing of the event

University of the District of Columbia where an audience of more than 500 people braved frigid temperatures,

considers Black History month as part of our

at an event co-hosted with Arab America,

was somewhat symbolic, as

snow and ice to hear her words.

collective community heritage. “The strug-

“From Ferguson to Chapel Hill: Together We

the anniversary of Malcolm’s

Stand for Justice.”

assassination on February

Ambassador Shabazz spoke about what it

Although Ambassador Shabazz was only

21st converged with upris-

was like to grow up in her household. “I didn’t

six years old at the time of her father’s death,

ings in Ferguson, Missouri

grow up with an anti-anything.” According

she described the personal impact of that

over the police shooting of

to her recollection, representatives from the

tragic moment as a “post traumatic syndrome.”

Michael Brown, and the trag-

church and the community would regularly

50

visit her father to ask his opinions or advice on a range of topics, and he would accept them all,

REMEMBERING MALCOLM X:

regardless of their background. “I do what he would have done, and that is human service.”

Shabazz said her father’s message has been

YEARS AFTER THE

AUDUBON BALLROOM

58

FA L L 2 01 5

misinterpreted over the years. “I understand people needing to hold onto the strength they associate to him. However, they do him a disservice, an injustice, when they excerpt him and redefine them in their way, and not as he is,” she said.

Shabazz reminded her audience that the struggle against injustice isn’t new—it didn’t

“ We get to write our own message.

Don’t let someone else define us. When the headline is wrong – correct it.”

— ATTALAH SHABAZZ

gles and accomplishments of any one group of people should be shared by everyone. We must all strive to broaden our perspectives by considering what we have in common and by listening to each other more closely.”

Shabazz asked listeners, Arab- and African-Americans, to introduce themselves to the people sitting next to them and behind them.

“By the power invested in me, I now pronounce you brothers and sisters,” she said. “Work together, stay united, don’t let the next crisis divide you,” she urged. “We have a responsibility to each other.”

Everyone has a stake in dialogue betweendiverse peoples, Shabazz said. “We get to write our own message. Don’t let someone else define us. When the headline is wrong—correct it.”

Shabazz urged listeners to commemorate her father’s May 19 birthday, not Feb. 21, the

start in Ferguson or Chapel Hill. “We’re walking

day of his death, and to spend that day doing

on behalf of those who came before us, every

direct service for others.

PHOTO ON OPPOSITE PAGE: The Audobon Ballroom where Malcolm X was assassinated on February 21, 1965 now houses The Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Educational

Center, located in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City. The Center, which opened in 2005 on the 80th anniversary of Malcolm X’s birth, serves as an oasis of support in the ongoing struggle for human rights social justice.

BY JOHN GORDON, JR.

WWW.UDC. EDU

59

ADVANCEMENT

CAMPAIGN DONORS

Advancing the Cause

BY STAFF WRITER

MILLION DOLLAR MATCH CAMPAIGN

T

The response from the University of the

have attained a 3.5 accumulative GPA and have

District of Columbia family was great and

been leaders in the university community and

propelled UDC to reach its goal – raising $1

the community at large.

he District of Columbia City Council

million for scholarships. The District Govern-

approved $1 million to be matched

ment matched those efforts bringing student

with private fundraising by the

scholarships to a total of $2 million.

The Hercules Scholars selected by the University were: Joseph Baggett

ORGANIZATIONS

Bell, Melvin

Colbert, Tracey A.

Fowler, Melvin C.

Holmes, Ernest A.

Community Connections, Inc.

Bell, Walter R.

Coleman, Marcella B.

Franklin, Beverly M.

Holsendorff, Earl F.

K. Dixon Architecture, PLLC

Bennett, Joyce A.

Conley, Rosalind A.

Frazier, Alvin A.

Holt, Elizabeth Joan

Live to Give Charitable Trust Fund

Bennett, Roberta

Cousin, Carolyn

Frimpong, Clement D.

Hood, Yvonne C.

Bing, John D.

Covington, John D.

Gadson, Michiko D.

Hornig, Joan

Minority Women In Science D.C. Area Network

Blagmon-Earl, Laverne

Crews, Kimberly

Galarraga, Omar J.

Horton, Lesa

Mt. Zion United Methodist Church

Blain, Delores R.

Crooks, David E.

Ganganna, Prema

Houston, Ann E.

Blaine, Morrise B.

Curtis, Daisy T.

Gellhorn, Gay

Humphrey, Jean W.

Research Development Services, Inc.

Blanchard, Myrtho M.

Dales, James W.

George, Yvonne L.

Hunt, Bernard W.

Bostick, Herman F.

Daugherty, June S.

Golden, Willa M.

Hunt, Jerome

Spectrum Management

Bowen, Viola M.

Daughton-Stewart, Frankye A.

Gordon, Catherine R.

Hunt, Williett

Standard Office Supply

Boyd, Kelita T

Davis, Stephanie S

Gordon, John

Hyman, Diane C.

Unity Health Care, Inc.

Bradley, Arthur R.

Dawkins, Emon E.

Goshay, Annie M.

Hyman, Lester S.

Verizon Foundation

Bragg, Giles G.

Deksissa, Tolessa

Goyal, Tarsaim L

Inyama, Benyi F.

Vermont Avenue Baptist Church

Brandon, Bridget L

Dhuria, Harbans L.

Goyal, Tarsaim L.

Irizarry, Diana M.

Braveboy, Norma J.

Diatta, Adama

Grady, Carrie P.

Irving, Howard C.

Brooks, Charles E.

Dixon, Freddie M.

Grady, Paulette

Jackson, Thelma E.

Broome, Sylvia H.

Dixon, Wanda Regina

Gray, Thelma W.

Jacobson, Lisa

Brown, Robert A.

Dolphin, Sandra

Green, Eva S

Jefferson, Patricia M.

Browner, Adrian Christine

Dorsey, Detra

Green, Eva S.

Jenkins, Johnella T.

Bruce, Eugene R.

Doshi, Kanaiyalal

Green, Patricia Diane

Jenkins, Michael D.

Bullock, Norma L.

Douglas, Frederick A.

Greenidge, Keith A.

Jeter, Sinclair V.

Bullock, Thomas H.

Doumbia, Moussa

Gross, Mary J.

Johnikin, Lewis

Burke, Beverly J.

Drayton, Debra D.

Guest-Joyner, Sabrina

Johnson, Andrew A.

Burton, Janet

Dunham, George S.

Haden, Reatha Cook

Johnson, Katherine Coleman

Bussey, Gilbert I.

Dyke, James W.

Haile, Marie

Johnson-Thompson, Marion C.

Butler, John D.

Dyson, James R.

Hair, Shoko Bennett

Jones, Gail R.

Butler, Johnny H.

Eba, Andre E

Halback, Joe A.

Jones, Melinda E.

Byrd, Alton B.

Edelin, Hazel V.

Hamilton, Marilyn A. L.

Jones, Rashidah (Robin)

Canal, Marilyn

Edmondson, Julius

Harmon-Martin, Shiela F.

Jones, William H.

Cappell, Angela

Ekeocha, Christopher Amahim

Harris, Lindi

Jowers-Barber, Sandra

Carlson, Nancy

Elliott, Ayana Myeem

Harris, Mary Ann

Joyner, Denise

Carney, Vernice S.

Ellison, Sara R.

Harrison, Elgloria A.

Kelleher, Jean Cole

Carrington, Doris J.

Epps, Valerie L.

Harvey, Barbara S.

Kenner, Sandra B.

Carroll, Emily T.

Ezeani, Eboh C.

Hayes, Harry M.

Khatri, Daryao S.

Carter, Saundra M

Fang, Josephine A.

Haynes, Wanda

King, Edna M.

Cartwright, Joseph V.

Farmer, Shurron

Henderson, Jennie Q.

King, Ruby Eustashia

Chase, Melvin R.

Farrow, Dorcas A.

Hendrick, Giana M.

Kirksey, Ericka Michelle

Chastang, Linda

Felstein, Harley

Herron, Georgia C. J.

Kokonis, Louis P.

Chatman, Michelle

Fleming, Bernice R.

Hider, Evelyn L.

Korey, Judith A.

Chatmon, Michael J.

Fleming, Jeffery

Hill, Jon M.

Koskinen, John A.

Chavous, Beverly B.

Fletcher, Lois J.

Hill, Marcella W.

Krauthamer, Helene

Choates, Arthur J.

Floyd, Ronald E.

Hill, Sylvia I. B.

Lacy, Gwynette P.

Christie, Tranesha A.

Ford, Alma M.

Hillman, Analcherie Olivia

Lancaster, Charlynn

Chung, Ellen M.

Foster, Cheryl A.

Holloman, Charlotte

Lancaster, Johncie L.

University of the District of Co-

After the University announced that it

lumbia during the 2015 and 2016

had reached its goal, it was announced that

fiscal years. The Council agreed to match

the District Council included another $1

University fundraising dollar for dollar up

million in the FY 16 budget to be matched

to $1 million. Last academic year, the Office

by the University beginning October 1, 2015.

of Advancement and the UDC Foundation

University supporters can look forward

as well as the David A. Clarke School of Law

to another big push in the fall to meet the

Melvin Bogard

Alfred, Ivarene Beverley

conducted many outreach efforts to alumni,

District Council’s challenge.

Junior, Journalism/Mass

Allen, John W.

Media Major

Allen, Mark L.

staff and donors through our Annual Fund program and through the University’s first direct mail solicitation. Using a combination of mail and email, OUA contacted all alumni, staff and donors multiple times.

UDC -TOM JOYNER FOUNDATION “SCHOOL OF THE MONTH” Through the efforts of the University Advancement and the UDC Foundation, the

Senior, Human Development Major; Minor: Early Childhood Education

Anderson, Major L.

Andreas Smith Junior, Business Management Major

Armstrong-Doweary, Ingrid R. Ashford, Maxine Askew, Joseph I. Ayankoya, Taiwo A.

HBCUs to co-market and fundraise with for

Harold Yapaway

a month, while the Foundation partners and

Senior, Water Resources Management

Ayegbusi, Sunday Bankston, LaHugh Barash, D. Scott Barber, John A. Bardin, David J.

a unique marketing and public relations op-

Barry, Mamadou A.

portunity for the University. The Foundation also provides scholarships to four students at

The Hercules Scholars were announced

set aside $1 Million to be matched with private

the selected University. The Hercules Scholars

on the Tom Joyner Morning Show and each

fundraising by the University. The response from the

Awards, named after the father of radio icon

received a $1,500 scholarship. The Tom Joyner

University was great and propelled UDC to reach its

Tom Joyner of the Tom Joyner Morning Show,

Foundation marketing relationship with the

goal – raising $1 million for scholarships.

are awarded to full-time male students who

University continues through December 2015.

FA L L 2 01 5

Anyu, Julius

Ayankoya, Betsy

the winning institution. This distinction offers

60

Aikens-Thompson, Antonell K.

Alston, Sharon

Tom Joyner Foundation. The TJF selects

the advocacy of Council Chairman Phil Mendelson,

Afantchao, Yao M.

Allmond, Kenya O.

selected as the “School of the Month” by the

The Council of the District of Columbia, through

Abney, Horace J.

Alexander, Sheila J.

University of the District of Columbia was

University donors focus on raising funds for

INDIVIDUALS

Barry, Carrie Barry, Mamadou Alpha Barton, Leroy Beasley, Debbie Rose Belanger, Charles A. Bell, Christopher

WWW.UDC. EDU

61

Lane-Pixley, Cotina

Mims, Barbara C.

Piper, Robert F.

Smith, E. King

Vanderslice, Lane

Lawson, Connie H.

Mingo, Antoinette

Pittman, Shirley M.

Smith, Jeanette H.

Vasquez, Leonel Ubaldo

Ledbetter, Sislena Grocer

Mobley, Helen P.

Pittman, Wanda J.

Smith, Leonard G.

Vinson, Rochelle K.

Lee, Clarence Franklin

Moffett, Jared E.

Plummer, Frances M.

Smith, Lorraine J.

Waggie, Alemayehu B.

Lee, Philip

Monk, Delores A.

Polk, Margaret

Smith, Shirley R.

Walker, Edward L.

Leith, Lucia J.

Monroe-Lord, Lillie

Posey, Isadora J.

Smith, Therrell C.

Walker, Ercell Marie H.

LeMelle, Tilden

Moore, Portia L.

Postell, Claudia J.

Sogbohossou, Missi

Walker, Jerilynn D.

Lewis, Janice M.

Moore-Weathers, Jacqueline R.

Powell-Persaud, Toni L.

Somersille, Elizabeth A.

Waller, Carolyn R.

Prescott, Herman S.

Soto, Milenia I.

Walters, Toni

Proctor, Iris L.

Spears, Darrell C.

Ward, Anthony H.

Prudente, Karen G.

Staley, Harry L.

Ward, Bernita A.

Quander, Joseph A.

Stancil, David W.

Warner, Katherine L.

Tom Joyner, Sybil Wilkes and J. Anthony

Raheem, Robert A.

Steed, Kenneth A.

Warner, Mary Elizabeth

Brown of the famous Tom Joyner Morn-

Reba, Lee Brian

Stevenson, Marilyn Hill

Washington, Adell S.

ing Show (TJMS) held their nationally re-

Redmond, Thomas E.

Stewart, Latresa

Watson, Addie L.

nowned radio show in the University of the

Redmond, Walter J.

Stilkind, Edward [Ed] I.

Watson, Colin E.

District of Columbia Theatre of the Arts on

Reed, Caroline L.

Stockton, Laura L.

Webster, Connie M.

May 15. There was an energized and excited

Reed, Charles E.

Sudah-Murphy, Badiya H.

Wells, Jovita D.

audience of several hundred consisting of

Reeder, Keneth P.

Sullivan, Samuel

Weston, Elizabeth H.

UDC staff, alumni, friends of UDC and the

TOP LEFT: UDC Law alumna and DC Council member LaRuby May (left) joins fellow graduate Charles “Choo”

Reeder, Monica J.

Sumby, Renee D.

Wheatley, Marian

fans of TJMS from across the city.

Smith (center) to welcome Tom Joyner and Sybil Wilkes to Firebird Nation.

Reid, Arthur M.

Sutherland, Beulah T.

White, Dovough S.

Reid, Malva D.

Sykes, Alice

Rhodes, Robert

Lewis, Ronald F. Lewis-Drumgoole, Peggy E.

Morris, Warren H.

Lieber, Gary

Mosby, Johnnie M.

Little, Eunis Ray Lovinggood, Jacqueline

Muhammad, Alverda A. Murphy-Phillips, Felicia

Lucas, Barbara L.

Musgrove, Louis G.

Lund, Charles C.

Musgrove, Mildred L.

Lyles, Michael

Myers, Carleton Jesse

Lyons, Deborah L.

Neil, Latisha

Lyons, James E. Madison, Lorenzo A.

Nesmith, Barry T. Noel, Ruth M.

Malone, Leslie

Nottingham, Winston C.

Marshall, Hazel B.

Nwosu, Constance

Marshall, Julia P. Marshall, Victor Dupre

Oglesby, Lolita Kay Ojiaku, Ngozi C.

Martin, George S.

O’Neill, Moira K.

Martin, Taunya M.

Onwuzurike, Gladys N.

Mason, Ronald Massey, April Mastropaolo, David V. Maxwell, James T.

Ossei-Agyeman-Yeboah, Afua D. Osunsade, Adewola Page, William T.

McBryde, Christina

Paige, Patricia A.

McCrae, Jessie L.

Panor, James G.

Mcdow, Mildred B. McDowell, Dorothy H. McDuffie, Timothy B. McInnis, Patricia McKenzie, Alton Anthony Mckinney-Russell, Marcia A. Mclaughlin, Versey L. McNair, Helen V.

Park, Gemma R. Parker, Clarence L. Parker, Ronald M. Patterson, Charles Patterson, Denise L. Patterson, Ulrich D. Payne, Alfredda H. Perez, Cesar A.

McNeil, Alice D. McNeill, Emogene S. McQueen, Alan L.

Persaud, Vishnu K. Perta, Joseph M. Peters, James P.

Melton, James J.

Peters-Jones, Nadene R.

Meskel, Tesfaye Miles, Annette Deborah Miller, Erwin C.

Pettiford, Willie F. Petty, Rachel M. Phaire, Dorothy W.

Miller, Marjorie D. Miller-Bartley, Mercedes B.

62

Morris, Lois J.

FA L L 2 01 5

Pierre, Webs

THE TOM JOYNER MORNING SHOW COMES TO UDC

The show aired on campus as part of the

BOTTOM LEFT: UDC alumnus George “Ty” Simpson who presents a $5,000 check to the Tom Joyner Foundation

White, Robert L.

Tom Joyner Foundation (TJF) “School of the

towards a Political Science scholarship. Simpson is President of Spectrum Management LLC, a DC based compa-

Tabb, Sharon L.

Williams, Jason L.

Month” designation. Several prominent residents

ny specializing in Real Estate Development and Facility Management.

Richmond, Deneen

Tate, Jean Dutch

Williams, Bertha H.

appeared on air with the legendary personalities

Rinehart-Guest, Shirley

Tate, Rosemary

Williams, Calamity Jane

Roach, Hildred

Taylor, Alfred O.

Williams, Claude W.

including Choo Smith, UDC Alum and basketball

Rogers, Michael C.

Taylor, Essie B.

Williams, Ella

Rogers, Hattie M.

Taylor, Harris M.

Williams, Ernesta P.

Rosenstein, Peter

Terra, Judith F.

Williams, George C.

Ross, Sylvia R.

Thomas, Patricia A.

Williams, Gregory Q.

Rosser, John R.

Thomas, Catherine A.

Williams, J. Leon

Russo Marfia, MaryAnn

Thomas, Charisse L.

Williams, Jacqueline S.

Salmon, Erroll D.

Thomas, Philip J.

Williams, Marian O.

Sambo, Adiaha J.

Thomas, Reesie A.

Williams, Marvin A.

Samhan, Muhammad H.

Thomas-Toure, Phyllis (Okolo) E.

Williams, Roz (Rosalyn)

Samuel, Brenda E. Schittone, Joe Scurlock, Carol Seymour, Shauneille Z. Shands-Strong, Sandra Shedrick, Delora Shelton, Jerome Shepherd, Moses Shuler, McAdo Simmons, Sabrina L. Slaughter, Denise B. Slocum, Derek E. Smith, Curtis L.

Thompson, Mary Catherine Thompson, Paul Thornhill, Carrie L. Thorstenson, Patricia C. Tidline, Ava M. Tolbert, Effie A. Travis, Theresa N. Tull, Knox W. Turner, JoAnn I. Turner, Rose H. Tyler, Pamula G. Umrani, Hana

champion who played with the Harlem Globe-

Regional Vice President, Marc Battle presented

the District of Columbia and the crowd

trotters; Virginia Ali, owner of Ben’s Chili Bowl;

a check in the amount of $50,000 on behalf of

delighted in the interaction with J. Anthony

Council Chair Phil Mendelson, and; newly elected

our local utility. Alum Ty Simpson presented a

Brown as he roamed the aisles, and Tom

Council Member and David A. Clarke School of

check for $5,000 to support UDC.

Joyner fraternized with his Omega Psi Phi

Law alum, La Ruby May. UDC Alum and PEPCO

It was a great day for the University of

fraternity brothers.

Wilson, Vanessa Michelle Wingfield, Margaret A. Winstead, Joseph S. Witherspoon, Audrey L. Womack, Sandra E. Wood, Inez G. Word, Maurice L. Wrenn, Veronica S. Wright, R. Russell Xu, Jackie Yates, Sandra G. Yehualashet, Tesfaye

UDC Alumni Mark Battle presents a $50,000 scholarship donation to the Tom

Zeytinci, Ahmet

Joyner Foundation from PEPCO, where Battle is the Regional Vice President.

Tom Joyner broadcasts live from UDC’s auditorium.

WWW.UDC. EDU

63

ADVANCEMENT

WHERE THE UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ALUMNI ARE LOCATED

KAPPAS @ 75 28 BROTHERS OF KAPPA Alpha Psi

THERE ARE 33,000 GRADUATES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA and

fraternity, Inc. returned “home” to

its predecessor institutions. The District of Columbia is home to 17,749 (53 percent) of UDC

UDC to celebrate the 75th anni-

alumni. Nearly 10,000 (26 percent) reside in Maryland. Our alumni reside in all 50 states and

versary of the Beta Kappa Chapter chartered at Miner Teachers’ College

Puerto Rica and Guam.

Election of Alumni Trustees After a month long campaign three candidates were elected as Alumni Trustees on the UDC Board of Trustees. Gwen Lewis Hubbard, ’77 ,’89, Jerome Shelton, DC Teachers College ’71, and Barrington Scott, ’91, were elected by more than 1,100

Along with the District and Maryland, 93 percent of our alumni reside in 15 states including

on February 21, 1940. Seven decades of Kappa men were

Florida, New York, California, Texas, North Carolina, and Georgia. There is enough of a concentra-

represented at the Saturday morning breakfast and tour

tion of alumni in key states that state alumni societies could be created as part of the National

of the Van Ness campus. Walter Daniels, senior English

Alumni association. UDC alumni reside throughout the city, with 45 percent living in Wards 3 and

major from Washington DC. is the current chapter Pole-

4, and 49 percent residing in Wards 5, 7and 8. Based on median income in the District, UDC Alumni

march and Nat Davis is the alumni Advisor (see photo #4).

2

generate $1.2 billion in economic impact.

alumni who participated in the election.

While participation in the election was low, it was 76 percent better than the last election in 2010. This year’s results come after a number of outreach efforts, an extended nomination process, and a candidate forum that was shared in emails to alumni. Each Alumni Trustee is elected for a five-year term, which means the next

1

election will be conducted in 2020.

3

Alumni Database The spring mailings to alumni for the alumni trustee election and for the LEGACY Magazine reveals that there is still much work to do in updating the alumni database. There were far too many returns.

An accurate up-to-date alumni database is essential to building a solid alumni network. The University will continue outreach to alumni, who are being asked to help by updating contact information. If you did not receive any information on the

Washington DC: 17,749

Texas: 450

New Jersey: 311

Maryland: 9,063

North Carolina: 423

Illinois: 220

Florida: 613

Georgia: 386

South Carolina: 205

turned because of an inaccurate or incom-

New York: 587

Pennsylvania: 385

Ohio: 197

plete address. To update your information,

California: 564

Virginia: 342

Michigan: 190

alumni election during the period January- March it means either you are not in the Alumni Database or your mail was re-

please email your information to alumniupdate@udc.edu.

64

FA L L 2 01 5

4 1. LEFT TO RIGHT: Dr. Andrew E. Jenkins, III (Fa1958), Herman F. Roebuck (Fa1962), David L. Hardrick (Spr1977.)

2. LEFT TO RIGHT: Dr. Andrew E. Jenkins, III, (Beta Kappa Fa1958) former Superintendent of the District of Columbia Public Schools and Rufus R. Cannon (Beta Kappa Fa1948).

3. LEFT TO RIGHT: Rufus R. Cannon (Beta Kappa Fa1948); Samuel E. McCoy (Beta Kappa Fa1956); Dr. Andrew E. Jenkins, III (Beta Kappa Fa1958), Herman F. Roebuck (Beta

There are hundreds of UDC alumni in numerous countries around the world.

Kappa Fa1962); John W. Moore (Beta Kappa Spr1970).

WWW.UDC. EDU

65

ALUMNI AFFAIRS

now. “My parents were very strict. They had set high standards and instilled that drive in me.”

Along with that drive came a commitment to military service. To fast track his pathway to citizenship, Schwartz took a brief leave of absence from his classwork—“between Calculus I and Calculus II”—and enlisted in the District of Columbia Army National Guard in 1976, enduring the rigors of basic training as a man in his mid-20s. “Everyone else was just a kid!” he remembers with a smile.

By then Federal City College was part of the newly created University of the District of Columbia, and it was to this institution that he returned at the start of the 1977 fall semester.

Two years later, Schwartz was promoted to Second Lieutenant and in 1980, six years after

Leading by Example

he began his march to secure a degree from an

ceed thanks to my education and the Army. The

(www.cgyca.org), a National Guard initiative

American university, he graduated from the

University of the District of Columbia prepared

dedicated to addressing the needs of at-risk

University of the District of Columbia with a

me in a technical way for engineering. The

youth, 16-18 years old. “There’s so much lost

B.S. in electrical engineering.

Army prepared me to be a leader in society. My

potential among the young people in our city

He would later earn an M.A. in Business

education, the clearances and my work ethic

and they deserve so much more. As mentors

Management from Central Michigan University

leveraged each other and gave me the insight

and advisors, we can give them a second chance

and an M.S. in National Security Strategy from

to ask the right questions and the confidence

at education, structure and caring so they can

the National Defense University. Schwartz also

to make the right job selection.”

become leaders in their communities and role

pursue engineering,” he recalls. “That was

attended the Department of Defense Senior

Since those early days, General Schwartz

my dream, my passion.”

models within their families.”

Executive Leadership Program, the National

has held several leadership positions as a staff

The General’s bonds with his alma ma-

After a brief “college tour” through the

War College, the John F. Kennedy School

officer and commander in the military and

ter remain equally strong. A member of the

Major General Errol R. Schwartz

Yellow Pages, he landed at TESST, a technical

of Government at Harvard University, and

intelligence communities. He has served as

university board of trustees since 2011, he is

BY SUSAN BODIKER

college with a campus in Hyattsville, Md.

National Defense University’s CAPSTONE

Defense Intelligence Senior Executive, a ci-

committed to honoring the traditions of the

His days were spent in class and his nights,

General and Flag Officer leadership program.

vilian position at the Department of Defense,

legacy institutions that paved his way and the

working the switchboard at the upscale Crest-

In his last semester at UDC, Schwartz had

and Director of the National Security Incident

university that helped him achieve his dreams.

wood apartments on 16th Street NW. It was

the good fortune to study under two instruc-

Response Center (Fort Meade, Md.) where

“There are so many good things about UDC

there that an apartment resident, Dr. Gene

tors who also worked at the National Security

he was responsible for providing real-time

and the entire University community must

Emmanuel, took an interest in the studious

Agency. Their classes were tough—quizzes every

indications and warnings of all cyber incidents

do better in promoting our strengths. CAUSES

young man and suggested he apply to Federal

morning at 8:00 a.m.—but through perseverance

affecting the United States National Security

(College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability

City College (FCC) where he was an instructor

and the art of “backward planning,” both refined

Information Systems.

and Environmental Sciences) and SEAS (School

in engineering.

and polished during his initial military training,

In 2008, President Bush appointed Gen-

of Engineering and Applied Sciences) are the

I

t’s easy to get lost in the details of the formidable resume of Major General Errol R. Schwartz. But to truly know him, you have to start with his unmistakable ambition, determination and intellect—that were

burnished in the “black box” of higher education and transformed into a lifetime of scholarship and achievement.

Schwartz has always found himself in the right place at the right time. In 1972, at the age of 20, he emigrated from Guyana, South America, joining his brother and sister who were attending Howard University. His motivation? A better education and a thirst for technology. “I always knew I wanted to

66

FA L L 2 01 5

All of us in the UDC community need to work harder and more proactively to celebrate our successes.

This was the first of many charmed en-

he more than met the challenge. Impressed by

eral Schwartz to his current position as Com-

equal of any institution in Washington, but we

counters. In 1974, as a newly minted electrical

his ambition and stellar academic performance,

manding General of the District of Columbia

need to work harder and more proactively to

technologist, Schwartz enrolled in FCC and

they encouraged him to apply to the agency.

National Guard—the only Guard unit directly

celebrate our successes, change perceptions and build up our reserves.”

at the same time began his first “real” job as a

He started as a lowly GS-7 and within 18

activated by POTUS. He was re-appointed

television repairman. “The first time I ever saw

months had moved from a technician to the

by President Obama the following year. Yet

For the General Schwartz and generations

a TV!” he marvels. Once again, he engineered

project leader on a VIP aviation communica-

despite what many would call the culmination

of students like him, education is the magic that

his own work-study program—combining sales

tions system. It was yet another smart move in

of a distinguished 39-year career, he still seeks

converts promise into reality, and young men

calls with classes, determined to succeed at

his career. “The NSA was a unique opportunity

new challenges. His current passion is the

and women into seasoned leaders – and he is

both. “Failure was never an option,” he says

for me,” Schwartz explains. “I was able to suc-

Capital Guardian Youth Challenge Academy

more than ready to lead the charge.

WWW.UDC. EDU

67

FACULTY AND STAFF NOTES

Clifton Johnson is orig-

Troy A LeMaile-Stovall

He is married to the former Sonya L Wig-

internship, at both UDC and the University of

pointed by the Governor of Louisiana, where

Counselors, the National Career Development

inally from North Caro-

serves as Executive VP/

gins and they are parents to two competitive

Arizona. Dr. Kliman received her Bachelor of

she served until moving to D.C. Also, recent-

Association, and Counselors for Social Justice.

lina, but has called DC

COO at the University of

swimmers, Zora Lauren and Langston Anthony.

Architecture from Cornell University, and her

ly, she was recognized by the Black Alumni

Dr. Maiden is committed to creating an en-

home for the last four

the District of Columbia

Troy has served and is serving on a number

Master of Architecture and PhD in Arid Lands

Network of Tulane University (BANTU) as

gaging, challenging learning environment for

years. Clifton is the Di-

(UDC), where he has re-

of for-profit and non-profit boards including

Resource Sciences from the University of Arizo-

an outstanding administrator.

students, faculty, and the community.

rector of the new Student

sponsibilities for facili-

Parkway Properties (NYSE:PKY), Archipalego

na. She is a LEED Accredited Professional and

She is a graduate of Albertus Magnus Col-

Center scheduled to

ties, procurement, infor-

Learning (NASDAQ:ARCL), National Society of

holds professional licenses in Virginia, Maryland,

lege in New Haven, Ct. After graduation, she

DeWayneBurroughswas

open in November 2015, and has spent more

mation technology, human resources, enrollment

Black Engineers (NSBE), SMU School of Engi-

Arizona, New Mexico, and Sonora, Mexico.

returned to New Orleans where she married

selected as the new Head

than 10 years of his life working in a Student

management and institutional effectiveness.

neering, SMU Dept of Electrical Engineering and

the late Robert J. Bates, Jr., and from this union

Women’s Basketball

Center on a college campus. Prior to arriving

He founded and serves as Managing Member

his church Landover, MD-based Zion Church

Evola Christophe Bates

she states that “she is the very proud Mother

Coach. Burroughs, an

at UDC, Clifton served as the Associate Direc-

of LeMaile Stovall LLC, a management consult-

of Landover, MD, led by Sr Pastor Keith Battle.

Prior to moving to Wash-

of step-daughter, Candice; twin sons, Rashi

Assistant Women’s Bas-

tor of Facilities and Event Services at American

ing firm focused on strategy, operational per-

ington, D.C. to serve as

and Ravi, and youngest son, Ryan.” Also stated

ketball Coach and Re-

University in Washington, DC and the Assistant

formance and capital stack formation. He has

Susan Schaefer Kliman,

Chief of Staff at UDC,

that, “she is ‘Mimi” to ten of the most precious

cruiting Coordinator at

Director of Campus Center Operations at Elon

served as Interim President for Zenith Educa-

PhD, AIA joined the fac-

Evola Bates was Pres-

grandchildren that she could have ever wished

UDC since 2011, replaces Lester Butler, Jr., who

University in North Carolina. Clifton received

tion Group, a $400M+, 56-campus career edu-

ulty in January as an

ident Mason’s Chief of

to have in her life.”

was announced the new Head Men’s Basketball

a Master of Science in Organization Develop-

cation system. He was a Principal with Butler

associate professor and

Staff at Southern Univer-

ment from American University and a Master

Snow Advisory Services, serving higher educa-

Chair and Program Di-

sity A&M System in Baton Rouge, LA for five

Dr. James Maiden was

During his four-year tenure as Butler’s

of Public Affairs from the University of North

tion clients. He has worked at senior levels in

rector for the Depart-

years (2000-2010) and at Jackson State Univer-

appointed Assistant

assistant coach, Burroughs helped the Firebirds

Carolina at Greensboro. Clifton began his

higher education as EVP/COO at Howard Uni-

ment of Urban Architec-

sity in Jackson, MS for ten years (2000-2010).

Dean of Student Affairs

reach three NCAA Tournaments (2012, 2014

professional career in higher education as a

versity and Sr. VP/CFO at Jackson State Uni-

ture and Community Planning in the College

Evola was employed at Tulane Univer-

in the College of Arts and

and 2015), win the program’s first East Coast

Phoenix, transitioned to an Eagle, and now is

versity, where he was awarded the Thurgood

of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and En-

sity in New Orleans for 15 years, where she

Sciences on August 10,

Conference Tournament Championship (2014)

excited to be a Firebird.

Marshall HBCU CFO of the Year.

vironmental Sciences (CAUSES). With over

held several positions, including Employee

2015. Prior to his arrival

and its first ECC Regular Season Champion-

Coach at his alma mater, Virginia Union.

Troy co-founded and served as the first

25 years of comprehensive industry and aca-

Relations Coordinator; Affirmative Action

at The University of the

ship (2015), as well as set school single-season

Ahmet Zeytinci, P.E.,

President/CEO of GulfSouth Capital, Am-

demic experience, Dr. Kliman provides over-

Officer; Assistant, Associate, and Vice Presi-

District of Columbia, Dr. Maiden served as the

records for wins (25) and consecutive wins (14).

Ph.D., is the recipient of

bassador John N. Palmer’s (Skytel founder)

sight and leadership for the graduate and un-

dent of Human Resources. Prior to working

Department Chair for Humanities, Commu-

In 2014-15, the Firebirds were ranked as high

the prestigious national

multi-million dollar family investment office,

dergraduate programs in Urban Architecture

at Tulane University, she worked ten years

nications & Social Sciences at the Art Institute

as No. 18 and finished No. 22 in the final USA

award, “Excellence in

served global technology and telecommuni-

and Community Planning, and collaborates

at Total Community Action, Inc., (TCA) a

of Washington. While there, he also served as

Today/ESPN Coaches’ Poll.

Engineering Educa-

cations clients as a Sr. Engagement Manager

closely with the Architectural Research Insti-

non-profit social service agency serving the

the Director of First Year Experience and

tion-2015” from the Na-

at McKinsey & Co., and held positions at

tute (ARI) to ensure the successful implemen-

disadvantaged in New Orleans.

Director of Academic Support.

tional Society of Profes-

Southwestern Bell Telephone (now AT&T),

tation of UDC’s strategic objectives in experi-

Bell Labs and Rockwell International.

ential and active learning.

Burroughs’ previous college coaching stops were Chesapeake College and Bowie State

During her tenure in Louisiana and Mis-

Dr. Maiden earned his Bachelor of Science

University. While at Bowie State, Burroughs

sissippi, she served on several boards as well

degree is in Psychology from Arkansas State

served as an assistant coach and the recruiting

“Dr. Z,” as he is known by his students and

He is a frequent speaker on topics including

Dr. Kliman actively participates in the com-

as volunteered her service to local community

University, his Master of Science degree is in

coordinator. He helped guide BSU to two 9th-

colleagues, is an award-winning structural

venture capital, motivation, economic devel-

munity education initiatives in the District of

groups: Member, Mayor of New Orleans Task

Counseling Education from the University

place Atlantic Region rankings, two Eastern

engineer, author, professor and former Chair

opment and higher education administration.

Columbia that advance the CAUSES mission.

Force on Education; Member, United Way

of Arkansas, and his Doctorate of Education

Division titles and two CIAA Finals appearances.

of the Department of Engineering, Architec-

He has authored or contributed to documents

Her research interests include the urban heat

Allocations Panel; Member of the Metropolitan

degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy

Burroughs also recruited two CIAA defensive

ture, Aerospace Technology and Fire Sciences.

on wireless data, entrepreneurship, venture

island effect, and mitigation through appropriate

Area Committee; Member, Clarion-Ledger

University. He has taught many undergradu-

players of the year, three CIAA All-Rookie team

He currently writes technical articles for

capital, economic development, activity-based

building design, high performance buildings,

Newspaper’s Editorial Board; selected to the

ate and graduate psychology and counseling

selections and several players that went on to

costing and higher education.

building science, and the integration of landscape

2007 Leadership Mississippi Program; elected

lecture courses and developed and taught

earn CIAA All-Conference honors.

sional Engineers (NSPE).

“DR.Z’S CORNER,” in the monthly newsletter of ASCE-NCS that reaches both engineering

Raised in Houston, TX, Troy is currently

with the structure to improve energy efficiency.

MS State Coordinator for the Office of Women

research seminars for first-year students and

Burroughs played baseball at his alma mater

students and practicing engineers not only in

pursuing a Doctorate in Strategic Leadership

She is also involved in multiple professional

in Higher Education of the American Council

seniors. His research and teaching interests

Coppin State University where he received a

the U.S., but also worldwide.

from Regent University. He holds a BS Elec-

organizations, with an emphasis on the training

on Education; invited to participate in the

include social justice, academic and social

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a

Since joining academia, the beloved pro-

trical Engineering degree cum laude from

of emerging professionals and the regulation

UNCF Inaugural McLean UNCF Women’s

integration for minority students, and career

minor in Sports Management. He was recently

fessor has distinguished himself on campus

Southern Methodist University (SMU, minor in

of practice. Prior to joining CAUSES, she was

Leadership Development Forum; and, Mem-

development and counseling.

inducted into the Coppin State University

and beyond as an extraordinarily dedicated

mathematics), a MS Computer Science degree

principal/managing partner of two small ar-

ber, the Margaret Walker Alexander National

and passionate teacher, mentor, scholar, and

from Stanford University (Bell Labs One Year

chitectural firms. She also taught a variety of

Research Center’s Board.

champion for professionalism and service in

on Campus Fellow) and a MBA from Harvard

courses, including design studio, professional

engineering.

University (1st year honors).

ethics and practice, construction systems and

68

FA L L 2 01 5

Dr. Maiden is a Licensed Professional

Hall of Fame Class of 2015. Burroughs later

Counselor and a National Certified Counselor.

went on to receive his Master’s Degree from

Recently, Evola was a Commissioner on

He is a member of the American Counseling

Mountain State University in Organizational

the Louisiana Health Care Commission, ap-

Association, the National Board of Certified

and Strategic Leadership.

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CLASS NOTES

Nathaniel J. Davis,

underrepresented communities in the tech-

Katia D. Ulysee (B.A. ‘02),

Historic District Development Corporation,

Service and Department of Health and Human

the United States Environmental Protection

Sr. ’00 (BA, Econom-

nology workforce. As a multi-disciplined

is an acclaimed author whose

a community-based, nonprofit organization

Services offering business transformation,

Agency on policy matters in post-secondary

ics) is the Deputy Sec-

mechanical engineer, Lovell has had many

first book of fiction, Drifting,

that facilitates the preservation and revi-

enterprise architecture and systems engi-

education and environmental regulation,

retary for the Federal

technical roles at Northrop Grumman Elec-

was published in July 2014.

talization of the Martin Luther King, Jr.

neering solutions. In this capacity, Ms. Her-

respectively. In private practice, she has suc-

Energy Regulatory

tronic Systems and has authored 18 publi-

Her writings have been fea-

National Historic District and other historic/

bert provides strategic support, thought

cessfully represented landlords and tenants,

Commission (FERC).

cations and has received four new technol-

tured in numerous literary

preservation communities. She has served as

leadership and technical guidance to the

builders, and hundreds of other business owners in litigation in D.C. and Maryland.

FERC is an indepen-

ogy and 19 trade secret awards. Lovell earned

journals, including the Ca-

Executive Director of the Southern Partners

clients on enterprise strategic issues and

dent agency that regulates the transmission

a master’s degree in mechanical engineering

ribbean Writer, Meridians, Calabash, Peregrine,

Fund, a community-based public foundation

challenges. She leads and manages the daily

Ms. Bolling earned an undergraduate degree

and wholesale sale of electricity and natural

from the University of Maryland, College

and Smartish Pace, among others. Her work has

committed to equal rights. She has held

operations of T&H, provides assessment,

from the Georgia Institute of Technology, a law

gas interstate commerce, and regulates the

Park, and is an active mentor to younger

also appeared in The Butterfly’s Way and Haiti

the position of Co-Director of the National

feedback, coaching, and support to fine tune

degree from the Catholic University of America

transportation of oil by pipeline in interstate

engineers.

Noir. Her first children’s book, Fabiola Can Count,

Network of Grant Makers, which supports

leadership skills of managers at all levels-from

Columbus School of Law, and a Masters of

was published in 2013. Ulysse lives in Maryland

social justice work; and, as Executive Direc-

first line to senior executives-in T&H. Ms.

Business Administration from the University

commerce. FERC also reviews proposals to build interstate natural gas pipelines, natu-

Co n s t a n c e D e a n

with her husband and daughter. When she’s not

tor of the Fund for Southern Communities,

Herbert is a Certified Executive Coach through

of the District of Columbia. She resides in

ral gas storage projects, and liquefied natural

Qualls, Ph.D., (1990

reading, writing fiction, gardening, or teaching,

which fosters social change in Georgia, North

Dream Releaser Coaching. She serves as

the District of Columbia with her husband,

gas terminals, and FERC licenses non-fed-

A.A., 1992 B.A., 1994

she blogs on VoicesfromHaiti.com

Carolina and South Carolina.

Executive and Leadership Coach for executives

daughter, and son.

eral hydropower projects. Mr. Davis previ-

M.S.) is Professor and

ously served as a manager in the Office of

Chair of the Depart-

Markets, Tariffs, and Rates - Division of

ment of Speech-Lan-

Tariffs and Market Development - Central Group. That group was responsible for analyzing and assessing filings and applications

Commissioner Garner has been known

in government, faith-based organizations and

Kamil Nawratil (B.F.A.

for her work in the non-profit sector and for

other client organizations. Ms. Herbert is a

Alfred Durham, ’13

’10), is the Founding Partner

her community leadership. She has served on

proud mother of one son and lives in the DC

(AAS) was appointed

guage Pathology and

and Creative Director of

the Boards of the Atlanta Beltline Affordable

metropolitan area.

Police Chief of Rich-

Director of the Graduate Program at SUNY

Volvox Labs (VVOX), an in-

Housing, Metropolitan Community Develop-

Buffalo State, Adjunct Associate Professor

terdisciplinary and new

ment Corporation, Council of Foundations,

Melinda M. Bolling ’90

2015. Chief Durham

involving the interstate sale for resale or

of Communication Sciences and Disorders

media design studio working

United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, Lambda

(MBA) is the Director

has nearly 28 years of

transmission of electric energy and partici-

at the Pennsylvania State University, and

at the bridge between the

Legal Defense and Educational Fund, and as

of the District of Colum-

service to law enforce-

pated in rulemakings and Commission opin-

Past Vice President for Science and Research

digital and the physical. Based in Brooklyn, NY,

Senior Advisor on Gay and Lesbian Issues.

bia Department of Con-

ment. After serving four years of active duty

ions. Mr. Davis, a 1988 initiate of The Beta

of the American Speech-Language-Hearing

VVOX merges cutting-edge technology with or-

Commissioner Garner currently resides in

sumer and Regulatory

with the United States Marine Corps, he

Kappa Chapter (UDC) of Kappa Alpha Psi

Association (ASHA). Dr. Qualls is a certified

ganic systems and designs to create awe-inspiring

the Historic Old Fourth Ward neighborhood

Affairs (DCRA). In this

began his law enforcement career with Dis-

Fraternity, Inc., currently serves as the Chap-

speech-language pathologist and cognitive

experiences. The studio conceptualizes and executes

with her partner, Judge Jane Morrison.

ter’s Alumni Advisor and is an active member

neuroscientist/researcher who holds mem-

multimedia and interactive environments through

of the Washington (DC) Alumni Chapter.

bership and leadership positions in a number

the integration of video, sound, architecture and

Mr. Davis is a first generation college grad-

of scientific and professional organizations.

visual effects.

uate and a fourth generation Washingtonian

She is an Alumnus of The University of

and lives in the metropolitan area with his

Memphis TN where she received her Ph.D.

Joan P. Garner, ‘78 (BA,

wife and two sons.

in neurological communication disorders.

mond, VA in February,

role, Ms. Bolling is re-

trict of Columbia Metropolitan Police De-

sponsible for managing an agency with more

partment in 1987 and ascended the ranks to

Deana P. Herbert ’1990

than 350 staff members. DCRA protects the

become assistant chief of police, where he

(B.S, Business Admin-

health, safety, economic interests, and qual-

served as the Executive Officer of the depart-

istration) is President

ity of life of District residents, businesses, and

ment. In this role, he was second-in-command

& Chief Operating Offi-

visitors by issuing licenses and permits, con-

of the police force and was responsible for

English) is serving her 3rd

cer of Thomas & Herbert

ducting inspections, enforcing building, hous-

managing the day-to- day operations of the

She is an international scholar who pub-

term as a Fulton County (GA)

Consulting (T&H) and

ing and, safety codes, regulating land use and

department with a sworn strength of 3,975

Philip A. Lovell (B.A.

lishes and presents worldwide; a Peo-

Commissioner, representing

has over 25 years of ex-

development, and advocating for and educat-

officers and 431 civilian personnel and an

’95), was nationally

ple-to-People Delegate to China and Cuba;

District 6. Commissioner

perience in strategic planning, organization

ing consumers.

operating budget of more than $508 million

honored for Outstand-

and a recipient of the William “Bill” Simp-

Garner earned a Bachelor of

development, leadership, business transfor-

Previously, Ms. Bolling served as DCRA’s

dollars. In 2004, Durham was responsible

ing Technical Contri-

kins Service Award. Dr. Qualls is a world

Arts Degree in English from

mation, change management and program

General Counsel where she managed the

for the planning and execution of the secu-

bution in Industry at

class leader, scholar, higher education ad-

the University of the District of Columbia and

management. As President, Ms. Herbert

agency’s legal staff in both prosecutorial and

rity operations for 55th Presidential Inau-

the 2015 Black Engi-

ministrator, and mentor who is committed

received a Master’s Degree in Organizational

oversees and provides program oversight for

defensive litigation before administrative and

guration. In addition to the Associates’ degree

n e e r o f t h e Ye a r

to developing future leaders and research-

Communication from Howard University.

T&H’s Housing, Public Health, Intelligence/

judicial forums in the District. Elsewhere in

in Corrections Administration earned at

Awards (BEYA) and Science, Technology,

ers; she is widely published and cited; and

As an entrepreneur, Commissioner Garner

Security, and Treasury Market Segments with

the District government, Ms. Bolling worked

UDC, Durham is also a graduate of the FBI

Engineering and Math (STEM) Global Com-

is sought after to present talks and workshops

founded Garner Results, Inc., a consultancy

$60 million dollars in gross revenue. Ms.

on redevelopment projects and affordable

National Academy; George Washington

petitiveness Conference. BEYA is the larg-

in her areas of research and clinical exper-

that develops giving strategies and provides

Herbert oversees T&H’s Management Team

housing initiatives in addition to litigation

University Certified Public Manager’s Course,

est gathering of STEM professionals and

tise and on topics of leadership, mentoring,

management support to the non-profit and

that supports clients such as the Department

responsibilities at the District of Columbia

and; Penn State University Police Executive

leaders who are committed to increasing

higher education administration, ethics,

philanthropic communities. Commissioner

of Housing and Urban Development, Bureau

Housing Authority. She’s also worked for the

Development Program.

the percentage of people from historically

and cultural and linguistic diversity.

Garner was previously President and CEO of the

of Economic Analysis, Internal Revenue

United States Department of Education and

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UDC FOUNDATION

The Gil Scott-Heron Creative Writing Scholarship at UDC

they had never saw it on television or heard it on radio, until Gil Scott-Heron. A native of Chicago by way of Jackson, Tenn., he was raised by his grandmother.

Jackson is where the core values of his beliefs were formed. It is where he learned to read, write and play piano, under the careful eye of Lilly Scott. Growing up in the American South in the 1950’s was a challenge,

His life in Washington, DC was without question his most creative. He taught creative writing at what was then Federal City College and is now The University of the District of Columbia.

and moving to New York City, in the Bronx; set the

Helping the Next Generation

stage for a creative breakthrough.

BY CHARLOT TE FOX

his mother was a librarian. He attended Lincoln

His father was a professional soccer player and

T

University because of his love of Langston Hughes. he most important composer of conscience

He, like Langston, became a poet. The Vulture was

of spoken word music, Gil Scott-Heron was

his first novel. Scott-Heron’s first book of poetry,

the voice of a generation. His ability to mix

Small Talk at 125th and Lenox, would also become the

poetry and music pushed him ahead of all

title of his first album on the Flying Dutchman label.

his contemporaries. His genius was evident

Lincoln University is where he met Brian Jackson,

in his ability to take the topics of the day, create a

his classmate and co-collaborator. Scott-Heron was

poem, which became a song and the truth of that

the first artist signed to Arista Records; he was one

song; exploded in the minds of everyone who heard it.

of the first artists to write about apartheid in South

His popularity was that simple; he told the truth in

Africa; his single “Johannesburg” hit Billboards

a song. This was truth that everyone knew; however,

Top 30. He was known for his biting lyrics; his

“ I was a better writer when I was teaching.

I was constantly going over the basics and constantly reminding myself, as I reminded my students, what made a good story, a good poem.”

album “Winter in America” is an undisputed

of humor; he was a warm and generous friend,

that we love: Blues, Ballads, Jazz, and Spoken

classic. It is a masterpiece about the politics

father, and son. At his death, he was working on

Word. The two albums like the body of his work

of America.

a novel “The Last Holiday”, about The Martin

will re-tie the thread to what we know and love, “conscience music.”

He was a Black Warrior, Prince. His pen

Luther King Jr. Holiday, and how he worked

was his weapon of choice; he used his mu-

with Stevie Wonder to promote and create the

sic and poetry to tell the story about African

MLK Holiday.

Americans in America.

His last album, “I’m New Here,” released

It has been said that he laid the foundation for Hip Hop. However true, that is, he was a brightly burning comet that has gone to soon.

His recording of “The Revolution Will Not

on XL in 2010 was his first album release in

Be Televised,” which was one of his poems,

more than 10 years. His work with Jamie Smith

The legacy of his work will live on through

became and remains a cultural anthem. His

proved to be productive. In February of 2011,

the students studying creative writing at The

love of mixing politics and music surely came

they released a remix titled “We’re New Here.”

University of the District of Columbia. Gil

from the early 1970’s. He lived in Washington,

These albums show that side of Scott-Heron

Scott-Heron died May 27, 2011.

D.C., a city he loved along with New York, which he made his home. As in any creative process, there were a number of years where he did not release an album. The weight of creative genius is sometimes hard to carry. The weight of it all, proved to weigh him down.

His life in Washington, DC was without question his most creative. He taught creative writing at what was then Federal City College and is now The University of the District of Columbia.

A scholarship has been established in the name of Gil Scott-Heron at the University of the District of Columbia Foundation, where his life’s work will be taught to students who study creative writing.

Donors may give and designate funds to the Gil Scott-Heron Scholarship by going to www.udc.edu and click on Give to UDC. There is a drop down designation menu for donors to select and designate to the Gil Scott-Heron Scholarship, #17.

Also, donors may write a check payable to The UDC Foundation, for the Gil Scott-Heron Scholarship - 4200 Connecticut Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20008.

He loved sports and had a wonderful sense

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IN MEMORIAM

Amelia Cobb Gray

Dr. Marva Wyvonne Cooper

of the Ohio University Piano Competition;

at The Tennessean and as an assistant in the

and concert appearances in Europe which led

Longtime music pro-

first place winner of the Omega Psi Phi Fra-

sports information office at then-Memphis

to studies with master teachers and coaches

fessor Dr. Marva Coo-

ternity Competition; listed as Woman of the

State, he was named the first full-time sports

in New York, London, Berlin and Milan, and

per was known for her

Year 2000 in the International Who’s Who of

information director at Alabama A&M.

continuous contracts with the German Opera.

gift of perfect pitch.

Professional and Business Women; selected

In addition to earning the Co-SIDA 25-Year

During this period, she established a repertoire

Fondly referred to as

as Piano Honoree of the Year 2002 by the

Award, Dooley won 11 CoSIDA publications

of 22 leading roles through her creation of major

“Wyvonne” by her fam-

District of Columbia Piano Competition; and

awards during his career. . He counted the

operatic characters in more than 13 operas in

ily and friends, she

was honored by the D.C. Piano Competition to

Lifetime Achievement Award and its recogni-

Germany, England and Italy.

interview and film world-class jazz pianist Os-

tion as one of his most cherished of his career.

passed away on April 20, 2015.

R

A native of Muskogee, OK, Dr. Cooper served as

car Peterson, at his home in Toronto, Canada.

Professor of Music at The University of the District

Additionally, Dr. Cooper was the recipient of

etired professor and UDC Theater

of Columbia. She was awarded the Floretta Dukes

research grants from the National Endowment

Department Chair, Amelia Cobb

McKenzieAppreciationAwardforheryearsserving

Gray passed away on July 3, 2015

as a judge for the DC Piano Competition by the

following a courageous, positive and

Superintendent of DC Public Schools.

Dr. Cooper has taught at Fisk University in

uncomplaining fight with illness.

Nashville, TN, and at North Carolina Central

She was 76 years old.

Charlotte Wesley Holloman

Professor Holloman’s love of music led to her memberships in the Hines-Lee Opera Ensemble, the Vocal Arts Society of DC, the

Former music professor

Friday Morning Music Club Foundation, the

for the Humanities and from The University

Charlotte Wesley Hol-

National Association of Teachers of Singing, and

of the District of Columbia.

loman passed away on

the National Association of Negro Musicians.

July 30, 2015, at the

The latter group honored Mrs. Holloman with

Stoddard Baptist Nurs-

its National Award for Excellence in Music

Former University of

ing Home in Northwest

Education on July 22nd of this year. She was director of the Friday Morning Music Club’s

Wallace Dooley

Professor Gray began her distinguished

University (NCCU), in Durham, NC, where she

the District of Colum-

Washington, ending a

teaching career in 1969 when she was hired

was appointed Chairperson of the Department

bia Sports Informa-

three and a half year battle with cancer. She

as a part-time instructor in English by

of Music and Professor of Music. While at NCCU,

tion Director, Wallace

was 94 years old.

Federal City College. The following year,

she was invited to accompany the NCCU Jazz

Dooley passed away

Professor Holloman was passionate about

performances, Charlotte Wesley Holloman’s

the District of Columbia Teachers College

Ensemble to appear at the White House for two

on Tuesday, July 21. In

teaching vocal arts and mentoring her students.

music will live on and echo in the voices of the

hired her as an Assistant Professor of Speech

consecutive performances in 1997, one for the

a 28-year span, Dooley

She was a vocal instructor at CUNY’s Lehman

many students she trained. She will be missed

and Drama.

National Press Club where she performed, and

held positions in sports information/media

College, the Catholic University of America,

and lovingly remembered by her daughter,

During the early 1970’s, Amelia also

one for a private audience with President Bill

relations at several schools and two confer-

Northern Virginia Community College, and the

Charlotte Holloman, ’72 (BS).

served as a drama consultant for various

Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton. She also

ence offices. He worked as SID at UDC from

University of the District of Columbia where she was an adjunct professor for twenty-five years.

supervisory and management training pro-

“Lady Speaks Her Mind,” a one-woman

toured Europe, as Chair of the Department, with

1981-1984, during which time the Firebirds

grams, including one sponsored by the Equal

show, written, directed and performed by

the NCCU Jazz Ensembles for their invitational

men’s basketball team made two consecutive

Mrs. Holloman gained international ex-

Employment Opportunity Commission

Amelia, which celebrated the liberation of

performances at the Montreux, Switzerland,

NCAA Division II Finals appearances and

posure early in life. She attended third grade

under the auspices of One America, Inc.

the female spirit. This acclaimed production

and the Vienne, France Jazz Festivals.

won the city’s first NCAA Championship in

classes in London, England, at Regents Park

at the Food and Drug Administration, and

was performed off Broadway at New York’s

Prior to her appointment in North Carolina,

1982. He also helped promote All-American

Public Elementary School and the Guildhall

at the Women’s Federal Reformatory in

Theater for the New City. It was also pre-

she served as Director of Music Programs at the

Earl Jones for Division II Player of the Year.

School of Music while her father did historical

Alderson, West Virginia.

sented at The Kennedy Center’s Lab Theater

historic Metropolitan AME Church (home of

In 2012, the former Tennessee State Uni-

research under a Guggenheim Fellowship. As a

and at Amherst College.

slave abolitionist, Frederick Douglass) where

versity associate athletic director for media

fifteen year old, Mrs. Holloman entered Howard

In 1977, when the District of Colum-

International Competition for Singers.

Through recordings of her unforgettable

Remembering other members of the University family who passed away in 2015.

• Mr. Thomas Funderburk, Retired University Registrar

bia Teachers College, Federal City College

Amelia loved teaching. Through her

she conducted the Cathedral Choir and the

relations was honored with the CoSIDA (Col-

University to continue her studies in piano

• Dr. Ernest Hamilton, English Professor

and Washington Technical Institute were

classes at UDC and by directing student

general congregation in the Second Inaugural

lege Sports Information Directors of America)

which she had begun at the age of three. Just

• Ms. Sarah Hardeman, School of Business and

consolidated to form the University of the

productions in the fall and spring of each

Prayer Service for President Clinton in 1997, and

Lifetime Achievement Award. After retiring

before her final semester as a piano major, she

District of Columbia, Amelia was promoted

year, she combined her passion for guiding

was the recipient of a letter of commendation

from TSU, Dooley maintained connection to

signed up for voice class on the urging of music

• Dr. Herschel McDowell, Chemistry Professor

to Assistant Professor of Theater. She went

and encouraging students, and sharing her

from the President.

the field working as the media contact (radio/

instructor and long-time family friend, Todd

• Mr. Walter Lattimore, College of Arts and

on to chair the Department of Theater and

knowledge of theater with them. Amelia

Dr. Cooper held a D.M.A. degree in piano

internet) in support of HBCU student-ath-

Duncan, who originated the role of Porgy in

Mass Communications. Over the course of her

was committed to her students and took

performance from The Catholic University of

letes and programs through BoxtoRow and

Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess; this event changed

career, Amelia taught courses in playwriting,

an interest in them as special and unique

America, the M.F.A. degree from Ohio Univer-

HSRN Radio.

the direction of her life. After graduating cum

acting dramatic literature and directing.

individuals who she wanted to help develop

sity, and a B.M. degree from Lincoln University in Missouri.

Public Administration

Sciences • Mr. Abdul Nurriddin, Student Scholar and HBCU All Star

His interest in sports information began

laude with a Bachelor of Music, Mrs. Holloman

• Dr. Vernise Steadman, Mathematics Professor

During the 1980’s Professor Gray worked

to their fullest potential as artists and as

as an undergraduate student at TSU. He as-

went on to earn her Master of Arts in Voice and

• Mr. Jose Uy, IT Systems Manager

to promote Black theater by forming a

human beings. Amelia remained on the

Her many honors and awards included

sisted the intramural director with compiling

Music Education from Columbia University,

• Mr. Carl Washington, School of Business and

non-profit theater company, Creative As-

faculty at UDC for over 30 years, retiring

honorary membership in the international

statistics for football and basketball games. In

In 1961, Mrs. Holloman received a Martha

cent. Her most notable production was

in early 2000.

Sigma Alpha Iota Fraternity; first place winner

1978, after working as a part-time sportswriter

Baird Rockefeller Foundation Grant for study

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Public Administration • Mr. Thomas Carlyle Waters, UDC Staff

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75

ATHLETICS

The Fourth Annual Athletics Hall of Fame

The University of the District of Co-

SENIOR BEN TAYLOR of the University of the

lumbia WOMEN’S LACROSSE TEAM

District of Columbia MEN’S LACROSSE TEAM

THE UDC MEN’S TENNIS TEAM was 4-2 in league play, qualified for the East Coast Con-

had its 2nd season in Spring 2015 under

was named Capital One Second Team Academic

ference Championship Tournament semifinals, and earned a bid as a No. 7 seed in the NCAA

head coach Melynda Brown. Although

All-American for the Men’s Division II At-Large

Division II Tournament. Senior Simon Andersson earned First Team All-ECC honors and

the Firebirds were winless in 12 games,

Team selected by the College Sports Information

freshman Diego Pinto was named the league’s Rookie of the Year.

the team demonstrated both unceasing

Directors of America. He is the 3rd different UDC

heart and commitment to learning the

student-athlete to earn Academic All-America

game as well as constant improvement

status in the last three years, with Kaydian Jones

all season long.

(‘14) earning 3rd Team honors in 2014 and Miguel Uzcategui 3rd Team honors in 2013 and 2014.

Taylor is the 4th UDC student-athlete Academic All-American in the school’s history, with women’s basketball standout Alice Butler earning 1st Team honors in 1981. Taylor is, however, the first UDC Academic All-American representing either start-up lacrosse program (men’s or women’s) as both teams just completed their second season this spring.

THE 4TH ANNUAL ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME celebration was held on February 20th, 2015 at Maggiano’s Little Italy on Wisconsin Avenue. The event, which included a reception, dinner and induction ceremony, was attended by more than 120 Firebird Athletics supporters. The 4th Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Class included: Britt King, Lorraine Lynch, Charles Smith, Donald Walters and Charles Bradford.

celebrates a 10-9 overtime win in its

DENIKKA BRENT of the University of the District of Columbia WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM was named the

season-opener vs. Alderson-Broaddus

program’s first ever Daktronics/Di-

on a bitter cold day mixed with rain

vision II Conference Commissioners

and snow at Georgetown Multi-Sport

Association First Team All-East Region

Field. Despite a second-straight year

performer as voted on by the region’s

Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Year for

with a losing record, the Firebirds

sports information directors. She helped

WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD. Benjamin - who

made great strides under head coach

lead the UDC women’s basketball team

also took home UDC’s most prestigious stu-

Scott Urick as four of the losses came

to a school-record 25 wins, an East Coast

dent-athlete award – the Reslyn Woodruff Henley

against top-15 nationally ranked teams

Conference Regular Season champi-

Memorial Award – is a two-time USTFCCCA

– all within the powerhouse East Coast

onship, and a No. 3 seed in the NCAA

All-Academic selection and a two-time All-Amer-

Conference.

Division II Tournament.

ican in the 4x400M Relay.

THE MEN’S LACROSSE TEAM

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JERILY BENJAMIN was named the East Coast

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ARTS

The Arts Are Alive at UDC SAVE THE DATE! On April 25, 2016 at 8pm, the Calvin Jones BIG BAND Jazz Festival celebrates thirty years of world-class jazz at the

3

University of the District of Columbia. Once again the powerhouse jazz ensembles from the University of the District of Columbia (directed by Allyn Johnson), Howard University

4

(directed by Fred Irby III), and the University of Maryland (directed by Chris Vadala) cap off Jazz Appreciation Month with a hand-clapping, finger-snapping, foot-stomping good time.

Produced by the University of the District of Columbia Jazz Studies Program and the Felix E. Grant Jazz Archives, the festival began in 1987 as part of a citywide tribute to Duke Ellington, and it remains one of the most anticipated events on Washington, D.C.'s jazz calendar. Other memorable 2015 arts performances at UDC include:

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6 7

1. DC Tap Festival dancers perform during “soldout” Theater of the Arts Auditorium event.

2. Violinist Kendall Isadore performs at during Tom Joyner Morning Show “live” UDC broadcast.

3. Former Chuck Brown Band musician Donald Tillery plays rendition of “What A Wonderful World” during 9-11 tribute on Dennard Plaza.

4. Ayanna Gregory celebrates her legendary father Dick Gregory in “Daughter of the Struggle” one-woman show.

5. A trio of violinist provide background strings for UDC Chorale’s performance of “Glory” at the 2015 Commencement.

6. Parliament’s “Funk Master” George Clinton signs autographs and greets fans during UDC’s national book tour event.

7. Acoustic guitarist Pete Muldoon performs at

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CAS Big Read Reception.

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A CLOSING THOUGHT

COMING TO THE NATION’S CAPITAL...

ECC MEN’S & WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

MARCH 5TH-6TH UDC SPORTS COMPLEX

The University of the District of Columbia will empower its graduates to be critical and creative thinkers, problem solvers, effective communicators, and engaged, service-driven leaders in the workforce and beyond.

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