Virginia State University Alumni Magazine- Fall 2018

Fall 2018

Here Comes the Meet Trent Cannon

From the President

Greetings VSU Family and Friends Virginia State University (VSU) has much to be proud of.

Since the last edition of the Alumni Magazine, VSU has received special recognition and accomplishments this academic year: • HBCU Digest recognized VSU with the Best Board of Trustees award, Best HBCU of the Year award and the Best Female Student of the Year award;

Dr. Makola M. Abdullah

• We graduated more than 700 new VSU alumni and welcomed them into the Trojan Family; • We hosted the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Committee and received rave reviews from the Committee; and • VSU was ranked the #19 HBCU by U.S. News & World Report.

Our transformation is one that has been experienced by the entire VSU Community. We could not have achieved this, without your support. Those who represent Trojan Nation in their places of employment, proudly wearing VSU apparel, attending campus events and every aspect of raising the visibility of Virginia State University is noticed and celebrated.

In this “Transformation” edition of the Virginia State University Alumni Magazine, you will learn more about our accomplishments, read about the achievements of some of our recent graduates and learn more about the new things taking place on campus. However, we want to hear from you. Please share your stories with us and provide details on how you support the VSU Transformation. Our work would not be complete without you. I am fortunate to serve an institution where the entire VSU community embraces its legacy and carries out the vision in remarkable ways.

Hail State! Hail State! Hail! Hail! Hail!

Sincerely,

Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D. President

Virginia State University Alumni Magazine A magazine for VSU alumni and friends Fall 2018 Volume 16, Issue 2

This Issue Features

Trent Cannon

Board o of V Visitors Rector Huron F. Winstead, ’89 Vice Rector Charlie Hill, ’66 Secretary Thursa Crittenden Members Dr. Valerie K. Brown, ’78 Pamela Currey Dr. Daryl C. Dance, ’57 Michael Flemming Jennifer Hunter Paul Koonce Xavier Richardson Glenn Sessoms, ’76 James Stegmaier Wayne Turnage Gregory Whirley, ’74 Faculty Representative Dr. Zoe Spencer Student Representative Gabrielle Wilks

12 Meet the New Board Members

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Millennials on the Move

Basically Business

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HBCU of the Year

Uniiverrsiity y Ad dministration President Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D. VP for Institutional Advancement Reshunda Mahone Editor/PR & Marketing Specialist Latryce Noel, ’97, ’16

Contributing W Writers

Departments

Cassandra Artis-Williams, ’13,’15; Charmica Epps, ’13; Jam’el Hodges, Ed.D., ’97; Maurice Jones; Pamela Turner; Stephen Wilson

Contributing P Photographer Lorenzo Cheatham, ’16

Trojan NFL Players

Virginia State University Alumni Magazine is published twice annually. Your comments and suggestions are welcome. Please send them to: Editor, Virginia State University Alumni Magazine P.O. Box 9027, Virginia State University, Va. 23806. Visit us on the web at www.vsu.edu.

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Copyright © 2018 by Virginia State University

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Sports Banquet

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Best HBCU of the Year

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Meet Our New Board Members The Virginia State University Board of Visitors and Virginia State University Foundation Board of Trustees provide oversight of the University affairs and continue its legacy through shared governance, support and collaboration. In July, we welcomed new members to both governing bodies, as highlighted below:

Board of Visitors Valerie K. Brown Dr. Valerie K. Brown, ‘78 currently serves as the Executive Pastor of Mount Lebanon Global Fellowship of Churches headquartered in Chesapeake, Va., where she oversees the management and operations of the church’s four satellite locations (Signet Family Life Center, Signet Bowling Center, Summit Counseling and Wellness Center and Key’s Resource Center and Café).

Brown’s previous work experience includes teaching positions at Norfolk State University and at Virginia Union University in the Samuel D. Proctor School of Theology. Her prior experience in the corporate sector includes executive vice president/chief financial officer for K.W. Brown International Ministries, Inc.; executive vice president/chief financial officer for The Elder’s House, Inc.; founder, owner, and president of a non-profit and tax preparation/consulting firm in Chesapeake, Va., and chief financial officer/controller at the Cardinal Savings and Loan in Richmond, Va. Brown has served on several boards including the Advisory Board for SunTrust Bank, and she has received numerous awards and certifications. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Virginia State University, and a doctoral degree in management from Case Western Reserve University.

VSU Foundation Board of Trustees Earnest A. Bazemore COL (Ret.) Earnest A. Bazemore, ‘85 is a retired Army Military Intelligence Colonel who served for 30 years with his culminating assignment as Inspector General supporting 17,000 employees located in offices throughout the world.

Bazemore has worked in private industry as an Intelligence professional and Director for Business Development. He currently works for The Intelligence and Security Command as the Director, Force Management, responsible for establishing policies and directing the coordination of organizational and operational concept development, force design and documentation, integration of modernization initiatives (manpower, equipment, and systems).

Bazemore is a life member of the Virginia State University Alumni Association and is the Chairman of the Alpha Phi Chapter Alumni, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Homecoming Scholarship Committee, whose goal is to give back to students at Virginia State University. He is a life member of the ROCKS, Inc., an organization formed to provide mentorship, professional development and social interaction to strengthen the military officer corps. He’s also a member of Woodbridge Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Irene Logan LT. Col. (Ret.) Irene Logan, ‘75 was the first female to complete the four-year Reserve Officer Training Corps at Virginia State University. She served and excelled in every position she held until her retirement in 1996. In 2009, she was inducted in the Virginia State University Military Hall of Fame. Logan served as the Director of Admissions at Virginia State University until 2016, and was instrumental in the growth of the university. She is a life member of the VSUAA Military Chapter and serves as treasurer for the VSUAA.

Claude Wood LT. Col. (Ret.) Claude A. Wood, ‘77 is a native of Chase City, Va. Wood graduated from Virginia State University and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in 1977, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. He holds a master’s degree in Personnel Administration from Troy State University.

Wood is founder, owner, and president of Concord Crossroads, LLC (C3R), a business providing consulting and security solutions services to federal agencies throughout the United States. Wood has served as a committee leader for the Retired Military Officers’ Association, and as a member of several organizations and associations, including the Prince William County Chamber of Commerce; the America Small Business Association, and life member of the National and Northern Virginia Alumni Chapters of Virginia State University. He is also honored in the Virginia State University Military of Fame.

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Student Success and Engagement

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he Virginia State University Division of Student Success and Engagement was originally called Student Aff Affairs. ffffa fairs.

But in 2016, university leadership decided it had more to off offer ffffe fer and students needed more strategic and seismic attention throughout their matriculation. The division was renamed Student Success and Engagement, with a refo refocused f cused fo ideology that an engaged student is a retained student.

“If we can keep a student’s attention, academically and socially, by challenging them in ways that peak their interest and their potential, then we’ll see students succeeding,” said Vice President for f r fo Student Success and Engagement, Letizia Gambrell-Boone, Ed.D.

Nikayla Williams is a junior from Las Ve V Vegas. gas. The Division has helped her navigate her studies and identify f leadership opportunities. “I would fy describe the [division] as transparent and direct. All of the services are readily and enthusiastically provided to students,” she said.

Williams has spent a good deal of her time in the Academic Center fo fforr Excellence (ACE), which is part of the division and off offers ffffe fers direct, one-onone help to students who need academic advising, tutoring or mentoring.

It is located on the second floor of the Johnston Memorial Library.

“ACE personnel helped me secure an internship with the Virginia Department of Transportation, provided me the opportunity to be a mentor fo fforr incoming freshmen as a Troj Trojan o an Leader, and oj info informed f rmed me about the Study Abroad program,” Williams said. fo On a national platfo platform, f rm, the division’s eff fo efforts ffffo forts to prioritize inclusion and retention are being recognized. President Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D., put together an advisory board fo fforr lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/ queer/questioning r questioning intersex ally+ inclusion r/ during the fa ffallll 2017 semester. The board’s eff efforts ffffo forts to create a more inclusive campus culture were highlighted in the April 2018

Within the division are 11 departments, including the Counseling Center, Career Services, Campus Ministries, Health Services and Student Activities. As part of its mission, the division aims to develop students holistically. That’s done with an intentional, keen fo ffocus cus on retention. More than 80 percent of the spring 2018 freshman class is already registered fo fforr the fa ffallll 2018 semester.

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edition of Diverse Issues in Higher Education. Associate Vice President fo fforr Student Success and Engagement Jame’l Hodges, Ed.D. attended the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators confe conference f rence and served as a panelist fo fe fforr the “Strengthening the Pipeline fo fforr Men of Color in Student Aff ffffa fairs” session. Hodges also authored material fo fforr the book “Engaging African-American Males in Community Colleges.”

Affairs” efforts “Our eff ffffo forts are being recognized and highlighted in a way that says we’re doing something right,” said Gambrell-Boone, who was selected fo fforr the 2019 cohort of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Millennial Leadership Institute. “Also, getting outside of our sphere and seeing what others are doing well helps us grow.”

That growth is coming in healthy spurts. VSU residence halls were more than 90 percent occupied in the fa ffallll in response to an increasingly high demand fo fforr single rooms.

There is a demonstrated need fo fforr the services that the ACE provides whether it is through undergraduate research, career preparation or exposure to a plethora of speakers though its Lyceum series. Since opening in fa ffallll 2016, the Center has seen remarkable progress with over 16,000 student encounters with service to over 2200 students in its inaugural year. This academic year, ACE expects to double its service to students.

As partrtr of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ requirement for f r a Quality Enhancement Plan, the division’s fo Trojan Troj o an Leaders program will play a leading role in the Becoming oj Outstanding Leaders of Tomorrow T morrow (BOLT) To (BOLT L ) initiative. BOLT LT L is LT designed as a comprehensive plan to enhance student learning and mold VSU students into globally competitive leaders and 21st century r profe ry professionals. f ssionals. Also, aft fe after ftfer nearly a decade, during the 2017-2018 academic school year, all nine of the VSU Greek organizations became active on campus. This year’s incoming rebirtrtrh of Greek life f on fe class will be the first class to experience the rebirth Troj o ans since 1926. oj campus, a tradition that has impacted lives of Trojans f rw fo r ard, the division is looking to expand its programming Going forward, by incorporating more social and wellness activities, creating opportunities for f r more parent involvement throughout the fo year and, of course, growing retention rates. The latter will be palpable proof that the division’s student approach, that includes not only academic, but social wellness, is working.

“We’re already seeing our retention numbers inch upward,” Gambrell-Boone said. “As our enrollment numbers increase we must work harder to retain larger numbers, but we’re up to the task and we’ll get there so that over time the influx will be obvious.”

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BOLT BOLT LT:

Becoming Outstanding Leaders of Tomorrow

At Virginia State University, we enable the development of an enriching campus culture to support student success by preparing civically engaged and globally competitive students. With our appreciation for diversity and divergent learning styles, we believe that every student has the capacity to lead and uplift their communities.

Therefore, our Quality Enhancement Plan-- BOLT: Becoming Outstanding Leaders of Tomorrow-- was designed to develop the leadership skills of every Trojan. The BOLT initiatives aid in fostering an environment that allows VSU graduates to develop skills and competencies to become engaging, empathetic, and collaborative leaders within their local, national, and global communities.

The goal of BOLT is to equip and provide undergraduates with leadership skills and experiences by infusing leadership competencies throughout the VSU curriculum and establishing a culture where leadership learning manifests itself in campus activities. Whether through experiential learning, course-embedded leadership modules, or a minor in leadership, undergraduates can choose their path of leadership learning.

Summerseat to Feed the Community

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s part of continued efforts to raise food security awareness and identify ways to provide fresh affordable food, VSU recently announced its Summerseat Urban Garden Project. Located at the historic Summerseat site adjacent to campus, the project will develop an educational urban garden designed to address food disparities. It will feature many recreational amenities and green spaces, including an instructional kitchen to teach the public how to prepare and preserve, and space for a farmers’ market. The project was made possible in part by a $3,500 gift from Sabra Dipping Co.

Summerseat is a house built around 1860, and is located near VSU on Chesterfield Avenue. In summer 2017, the University received the first Outstanding State Stewardship award from former Gov. McAuliffe for preserving the structure.

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Fall 2018

The Return of Greek Life on Campus

We are so excited for the rebirth of Greek life on the campus of Virginia State University!

Dating as far back as 1926, Greek life has made an impact on the lives of Trojans. For the first time in a decade, all chapters of the Divine Nine are active. Under the leadership of Casey Perry, associate director of Student Life and Engagement, the students hit the ground running with Greek unity programs, as well as individualized chapter programs and programming to support the national requirements of each organization. The freshman class of 2022 will be our first class in many years to experience this VSU tradition.

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Fall 2018

Student-Run Business Store Still Strong Since its fall 2015 launch, the business wear store in Singleton Hall is in full swing. Officially named “Basically Business—It’s What Suits You,” the store continues its mission to provide all VSU students with affordable business clothing.

The business model is simple: alumni and community members donate gently-used garments, shoes and accessories that are suitable for interviews, meetings and work. The students of the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business are hired—and paid-- to strategize, plan, staff and implement business operations.

“The store is essentially an experiential learning lab,” says Jonathan Young, store advisor and director of corporate relations. “Students learn how to manage personnel, revenue, inventory and more.” In addition to providing entrepreneurial experience, the store is deemed as a key element in sustaining enrollment.

“Students who are engaged in the campus community through organizations, leadership roles-- and in this case, on-campus enterprises—are more likely to stay in school and graduate,” says Young.

The store attracts 10 to 15 paying customers each week; with dozens more visiting to window-shop or show support. It has doubled in size, and the student team is procuring retail signage and other accoutrements to enhance the shopping experience.

“Basically Business—It’s What Suits You”

accepts garments Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in room 310, Singleton Hall. Men’s shoes and clothing are needed most.

For more information, contact Jonathan Young at (804) 524-5166 or jyoung@vsu.edu.

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Highlights from the Hill GRANTS • The University received an additional $1.76 million from the Wallace Foundation to continue the transformative work on the national based University Principal Preparation Initiative.

• Thanks to a $300,000 grant, Virginia State University joins a program under Verizon Innovative Learning, the education initiative of the Verizon Foundation. The program offers summer intensive courses in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to minority males from middle schools in Petersburg, Hopewell and Dinwiddie.

NOTEWORTHY • The University received its fourth consecutive Tree Campus USA Award. VSU was recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation for its commitment to campus forestry management and environmental stewardship.

• The National Association for Communication Excellence in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Life and Human Sciences (ACE) awarded the VSU Extension Marketing & Communications Department four awards. The department received a gold award in the Print Ad Category for an unprecedented ad that represented both Virginia Tech and VSU in Virginia Agriculture Magazine. In the Info Technology/ Technology Education Category, the department received a silver award for a WebEx photography presentation it created and delivered at last year’s virtual Virginia Cooperative Extension Winter Conference.

A silver award was also received in the Diversity/Publications for Diverse Audiences Category for the 2017 Spring/Summer issue of Connection Magazine. Additionally, another silver award was received in the Diversity/Electronic Media and Audio for Targeted Audiences Category for the 2017 Small Farmer of the Year video.

• Trojans Wynton Smith and Giovaunni Gee-Miles won first place at the Emerging Researchers National Conference in Washington, D.C. • The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) in partnership with the Penn Center for Minority Serving Institutions (CMSI) has awarded two VSU students a Global Fellows scholarship to fund their participation in a four-week credit-bearing education abroad program in Europe during summer 2018. Myia Jones, a junior business marketing major from Chesapeake, Virginia, will study at the CIEE Global Institute in Berlin, Germany. Ke-ana Williams, a junior mass communications major from Alexandria, Virginia, will study at the CIEE Global Institute in London, England. The scholarship provides an opportunity for student leaders to gain global perspectives through cultural immersion experiences. Upon completion of their program abroad, the students will be expected to serve as study abroad ambassadors on campus and help facilitate workshops/sessions where they will share their study abroad experience with their peers.

• Keyashia Willis, a junior biology major was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC) for 2018. NCHC is the largest membership organization supporting honors education in the United States. Keyashia is the first student from VSU to be elected to the NCHC Board of Directors.

• Emmy award-winning director and producer Jesse Vaughan, who serves as the creative director of Advance Creative Service Group at VSU, was inducted into the Virginia Communications Hall of Fame.

ATHLETICS • Head Men’s Basketball Coach Lonnie Blow, Jr. was the 2018 Central Intercollegiate Athletics Association Coach of the Year.

• The men’s basketball team made an appearance in the 2018 NCAA DII Men’s Basketball Atlantic Region Tournament. The Trojans also hosted the Atlantic Regional tournament for the first time in school history due to the Trojans securing the No. 1 ranking in the Atlantic Region.

• The women’s tennis team (11-4, 8-3 CIAA, 6-0 North) claimed the CIAA Northern Division title for the regular season.

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Here Comes the

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ormer Virginia State University running back and kickoff returner Trenton “Boom” Cannon’s lifelong dreams have come true. Cannon was selected in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the New York Jets; the first Trojan to be drafted in 22 years. This piece tells a story about Cannon’s life, his journey and his drive.

making our way to the first location; talking along the way about life and football.

The Hampton, Va. native is the youngest of four children raised by a single mother. Cannon says that since he was little, football was his life— after all, it was the sport all the boys in his family played. Initially, his mother objected to him playing, but his uncle persisted and pressed her for approval.

Meanwhile, Cannon played sandlot football daily. Eventually, his mother relented and Cannon joined the Mighty Mites football squad. The rest is history. He continued to play football throughout his youth, all the while exhibiting an athleticism that compelled his high school football coach— who was also the

On short notice, Trenton Cannon— a responsive and adaptable Trojan— accepted our interview request, scheduled a meeting time and was gracious enough to bring props for the photo shoot. We met in Head Football Coach Reggie Barlow’s office, and Cannon comes through the door sporting a wide grin. After discussing the format for the shoot and interview, we began WWW.VSU.EDU

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track coach— to recruit Cannon for the track team. He ran track during his senior year, and performed well enough to compete and place at States.

The Shepherd University transfer originally considered going to Norfolk State University, but he did not want to lose playing time as a result of moving up a division. He instead chose VSU and joined the Trojans as a walk-on, knowing that he had to prove himself. His decision to hit the ground running and playing hard paid off: he led the Trojans to an undefeated 2017 football season; he received countless accolades for his outstanding performance, including being the third-leading rusher in NCAA Division II football, and he broke the 40-year VSU all-time rushing record with a total of 3,780 yards. It did not take long for his game tapes to land in the hands of New York Jets’ Special Teams coordinator Brant Boyer, who is a close contact of Coach Barlow (Cannon readily credits Barlow and the VSU football coaching staff for preparing and helping him with his journey to the NFL). ___ The summer heat and humidity in Virginia can be unforgiving. While the interviewer was nearly crawling to the third shoot location, Cannon never broke a sweat. With an easy laugh, he acknowledges that he’s used to playing in this type of weather while readying for the upcoming season. Cannon— a congenial and cooperative Trojan— graciously takes direction from the photographer and poses with ease despite the suffocating humidity. He then talks about the moment he got “The Call.” His family gathered around the television to watch the draft while he went to lunch with his brother-in-law to clear his mind. Cannon returns home, and the phone rings with the Jets’ special teams coordinator and general manager on the line. While he was on the phone, his name flashed across the screen and the family room erupted with excitement.

Cannon shared that he felt a sense of relief because he did not know if he would have to go as a free agent. It was his dream come true, and he immediately began thinking about what life would be like as a Jet. “I told them I was ready to play right at that moment,” Cannon laughs. He was reported to be the first Jet rookie to sign his contract at camp. Did he splurge on anything special? Cannon smiled and said he bought himself a 2018 Jeep Wrangler, took his mother to dinner and treated her to something nice.

We asked him to share something that a lot of people may not know about him. In future offseasons, the criminal justice major said that he would like to work with juveniles—something that he is passionate about. He interned with Progressive Community Outreach, a family services agency in Petersburg, Va. that provides therapeutic mentoring, parent education and coaching, and Cannon signs the jersey of a workplace readiness programs for youth. After some future Trojan, Ronnie Neal III. careful reflection, he then says he feels obligated to play hard and produce because he understands his duty as a role model is to motivate and inspire people around him— family, friends, teammates and other athletes. “It’s a good feeling to impact people like that.

It pushes me to work harder.” Nodding toward his friend Martel Peden, a sports management graduate student, “he pushes me, and I push him.” Cannon also shared that random athletes have sent him direct messages on social media telling him what an inspiration he is.

Motivating and inspiring fellow HBCU athletes are paramount in an NFL landscape that doesn’t always

Next Page

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recruit HBCU talent. During the 2018 draft, Cannon; former North Carolina A&T offensive lineman, Brandon Parker, and former South Carolina State linebacker, Darius Leonard, were only three out of 256 players to come from an HBCU. Of approximately 1,600 active NFL players, fewer than 50 are HBCU athletes. Recognizing the disparity, HBCU sport analysts are hopeful that with Chicago Bear standout and former Aggie running back, Tarik Cohen— a 2017 draft pick— the NFL will start to pay closer attention. “Tarik got picked up during my senior season and that motivated me to keep pushing,” Cannon said. “And getting drafted from a [Division II] school makes it more special because you don’t see it often. It’s a blessing.”

Part of that blessing is the chance to stand with a pantheon of greats from his hometown. The Hampton Roads region of Virginia, which is considered a veritable hotbed of athletic talent, boasts such names as Allen Iverson, Michael Vick, Alonzo Mourning, Lawrence Taylor and Ronald Curry. And that chance ultimately means rising to the occasion at training camp. “I’m ready to make my mark and earn a spot on special teams as a kickoff or punt returner,” Cannon said. The New York Jets have five running backs vying to compete for the field, including mainstay Bilal Powell; newcomer Thomas Rawls from the Seattle Seahawks, and Isaiah Crowell, who is a mentee of Coach Barlow. Despite the competition, Cannon is fully expected to be a serious contender for the roster as a returner, as he has a quality that can’t be taught, speed.

Explosive speed. Cannon ran a 4.40 second 40-yard dash and a 1.49 10-yard split at his pro day at the University of Richmond. That caliber of speed is one of the main reasons New York drafted him despite a crowded backfield. That caliber of speed is what the Jets’ offense and special teams have reportedly been lacking for quite some time. ___ Cannon’s favorite memories on The Hill include playing in the Homecoming games “because of the crowds and the energy.”

However, another game worth mentioning is the 2017 home game against the Virginia Union Panthers where he faced off against Ray Lewis Jr., son of NFL Hall of Famer Ray Lewis. During that game at the line of scrimmage, he and Lewis exchanged some friendly trash talk. Near the end of the second quarter, Lewis tried to take Cannon down at the end zone. What happened next was the talk of college football fans for weeks to come. “There was the end zone, there was him, and there was me. I thought he was going for my legs, so I jumped,” said Cannon. “And he didn’t get out of the way.”

In a surprising move that launched Cannon more than five feet off the ground, Lewis toppled over and Cannon scored. “Up until that moment, they thought they were going to win.”

Lewis’ trash talking stopped after that and VSU rose victorious at the end; thanks, in part, to Cannon— an effective, hard working Trojan.

A true Loyal Son.

At press time, Trenton Cannon was selected for the New York Jets’ 53-man regular season roster, and is listed as a second string kick returner and punt returner.

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Trojans In The NFL Ten VSU Trojan football players have been selected to play in the National Football League. The first person drafted was Linwood “Lyn” Hart who as selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 14th round of the 1965 NFL Draft. The latest player to be drafted was Trenton Cannon-- 22 years after Kelvin “K2” Kinney. Cannon was selected by the New York Jets as the 204th pick overall in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium.

Below is the NFL Draft list of players from Virginia State University: Year

Round

Pick

1965

14

--

1970

3

1970

Team

Player

Position

Buffalo Bills

Linwood “Lyn” Hart

DB

71

Detroit Lions

Jim Mitchell

DE

7

176

New York Jets

Jim Williams

DB

1972

14

355

Los Angeles Rams

Larry Brooks

DT

1972

16

408

San Francisco 49ers

Ron Davis

OG

1974

10

253

Oakland Raiders

Chris Arnold

DB

1974

14

340

New York Giants

Mike Hayes

OT

1992

3

82

Dallas Cowboys

James Brown

OT

1996

6

174

Washington Redskins

Kelvin Kinney

DE

2018

6

204

New York Jets

Trenton Cannon

RB

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Millennials on the Move Major Keyia Carlton Class Year: 2006, 2015, 2017 Major: Psychology Employer: United States Army

Having served 19 years in the US Army, Maj. Carlton graduated from VSU in 2006 a distinguished military graduate with the highest GPA in the Psychology Department at the time. She later returned to VSU and graduated in 2015 with a Master of Science in Psychology and in 2017 with her PhD in Health Psychology. Carlton is a decorated soldier having achieved a Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medals, Iraqi Campaign Medal an Army Service Ribbon and more. “At VSU I didn’t just learn about psychology or military leadership, but by talking openly and honestly with my cadre, professors, and peers I learned about how many topics uniquely apply to African Americans and the root of many challenges African Americans experience. I have three degrees from VSU. I take everything I’ve learned from VSU (both in and out of the classroom) with me wherever I go.” Carlton plans to continue to use her gifts to best serve the Army. After retirement, she would like to promote diversity or minority health in underserved communities.

Brianna Clark

Class Year: 2012 Major: Family and Consumer Science Employer: Howard University “VSU made me brave, aware, passionate, and helped me fall in love with the field of higher education,” shared Brianna Clark a 2012 graduate of VSU. Brianna is a second year doctoral student in the Howard University’s Inaugural Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies (HELPS) Cohort. She earned her master’s degree in Counseling from Old Dominion University.

Brianna currently serves as the Graduate Assistant in the President’s Office at Howard University.

Her position focuses on building a learning community among HBCU leadership, and provide a centralized space that encourages a consistent exchange of resources, best practices, opportunities, and innovation. Prior to relocating to Washington D.C. she served as the Assistant Director of Career Services at Norfolk State University (NSU). While at NSU, she earned the Excellent Customer Service Award. Brianna aspires to be an advocate for HBCUs along with other Minority Serving Institutions. As a former student-athlete she ultimately aspires to become a college athletic director. She is a member of the Association for The Study of Higher Education (ASHE), VSUAA Varsity Club, National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.

Terri Curtis

Class Year: 2014 Major: Graphic Design Employer: Virginia Commonwealth University Unaware that higher education design was a career path, Terri serves as the Assistant Director of Creative Content at Virginia Commonwealth University. “I develop all of the VCU Alumni digital content for the website, email, social media and app,” shared Curtis. Since joining VCU, she has won the 2017 Commonwealth Award of Merit, Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) award for VCU’s Go GOLD Membership Campaign. She also won the 2018 Award of Excellence, Council of Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) award for VCU Alumni’s Battle for the Capital poster. “Everything you see was designed by an artist. Sharpen your skills, perfect your portfolio and people will pay you to do what you love to do everyday.”

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Chelsea Jackson

Class Year: 2014 Major: Management Information Systems Employer: Virginia Department of Transportation Chelsea currently works at the Virginia Department of Transportation as a Business Associate and was recently elected Vice President of the National Association of Black Accountants, Inc. Richmond Metropolitan Chapter and holds many positions. Previously, she served as chair of the public relations committee and webmaster, chair of the public relations/hospitality for NABA’s Eastern Region Student Conference and proudly serves as the student chapter liaison for the VSU Chapter, which she states is her “favorite hat by far.” She has been a member of the organization since 2011.

Shanieka Jones

Class Year: 2007 and 2012 Major: Criminal Justice Employer: California State University Monterey Bay Serving as the Clery Compliance Officer at California State University Monterey Bay, Shanieka develops and manages the university’s Clery compliance program. Continuing her education, Shanieka has completed her course work and is drafting her dissertation proposal with the plans of graduating in 2019. She is a member of the National Association for Clery Compliance Officers and Professionals (NACCOP) and the Monterey Peninsula Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Vince Pierson

Class Year: 2011 Major: Sport Management Employer: Minor League Baseball “Sports have such a unique place in our society – Not many entities touch lives the way sports do in both volume and impact. If that influence can be cultivated for good, it can change the world,” shared VSU alumnus Vince Pierson. Vince is the Director of Diversity and Inclusion for Minor League Baseball, where he has worked for three years. He is active in the community and his profession as a board member of the University of Central Florida’s DeVos Sport Business Management Program and a member of the National Sports Forum’s Business of Diversity in Sports and Entertainment Committee. Virginia State University provided me with the environment to grow and develop as a young man. I transitioned from a hard-headed adolescent at matriculation to a mature young professional at commencement. “Much of my development is credited to my mentor, Dr. Leon Bey – A VSU lifer who retired spring 2018. He played a huge role in molding me and instilling certain qualities and characteristics that continue to prove beneficial today.” Vince plans to continue to use sports as a vehicle to change the social narrative within our country.

Wesley Wright

Class Year: 2015 Major: Accounting and Finance Employer: Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General Using the skills and techniques acquired at VSU through his business classes, Wesley joined the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General in April 2016 as an Auditor. “Based on the business courses that I took at VSU, I learned how to present information and communicate results in a concise way that the audience would understand.” Wesley is preparing to take his career to the next level in the future by becoming a certified fraud examiner (CFE) and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). Wesley maintains his connection with VSU as a member of the VSUAA Northern Virginia Alumni Chapter.

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Fall 2018

From Intern to Second Vice President

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eaving the mild Virginia weather to travel to Connecticut where her leather coat would need to be exchanged for something a little heavier, Tara Spain, ’98 has called the Constitution State home since beginning her career with Travelers. She serves as the vice president and chief operating officer of the Travelers Foundation and second vice president for community relations at Travelers. Spain works within the community and manages strategy and operations for the insurance company’s philanthropic arm.

Her career has grown since landing an internship with the company as a Virginia State University student.

After graduating in 1998 with a B.S. in marketing, she was offered positions with several companies, however accepted a position with Travelers. “When I graduated, the market was doing really well. I had a couple of job offers but [Travelers] was the best because I had previously worked there,” said Spain. “I got a really good offer, I was comfortable, I knew the people and I said ‘You know what? I am going to take a risk and I am going to move to Connecticut by myself.’ And that’s what I did. And that’s how I started my career.”

She spent much of her childhood growing up in Virginia Beach, Va. but also lived in California, Louisiana, and North Carolina with her military family. Three generations of her family members have attended VSU, so it was an easy decision for her to make the choice to be a Trojan, plus she didn’t want to travel too far from home. “Virginia State has been in the family for generations and it was a school I was familiar with and comfortable with,” shared Spain. She explored other HBCUs such as Hampton University and Morgan State University, but found her home away from home two hours away, “High Above the Appomattox.”

As a student, Spain received ample support from her professors. “I had an amazing mentor that was head of our department at the time, Dr. Kathy Stitts. She was kind of like my ‘go-to’ person for everything; she pushed us, encouraged us and found opportunities for us to succeed.” The two remain in contact with each other. In addition to the professors who left a lasting impression, she also met lifelong friends. “In a few weeks, I am going to a baby shower of a dear friend I met freshman year.”

Spain graduated at the top of her major earning the status of Magna Cum Laude. In addition to conquering the challenges of her academic courses, Tara was also active on campus, which offered some balance to her college experience. She was a member of the American Marketing Association (AMA) student chapter and was voted Miss AMA during her sophomore year; Beta Gamma Sigma Business Honor Society; Alpha Mu Gamma foreign language honor society; Sister to Sister and, in 1997, became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Alpha Epsilon chapter.

Without hesitation, Spain credits the support and academic challenge received at VSU for her success. From intern to second vice president, she has been able to make a career out of what she loves, which is giving back to the community. When she isn’t working, volunteering or serving on nonprofit boards, she is enjoying time with her daughter or getting some much deserved “me time.”

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Fall 2018

Trojan With a Heart to Serve: Col. (Ret.) Willie F. Wright, ’59 Col. (Ret.) Willie F. Wright, ’59 has been a true example of an alumnus who cares about the next generation of Trojans furthing their education.

A native of Surry County, Va., Col. Wright has a strong passion for education. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Virginia State University, and shortly afterward received a Master of Science degree in Public Administration from George Washington University. He enrolled in Campbell University and received two master’s degrees in Education and School Administration.

Col. Wright served our country proudly in the U.S. Army for 30 years before retiring. Following through with his passion for education, Wright became an educator in Cumberland County, N.C. His time as a school administer was well-served, and he was greatly appreciated by his community through recognition as a Wachovia Principal of the year, an E.E. Smith District Principal of the Year, and recognition by the Governor of North Carolina. Also while in Cumberland, he served on several boards, to include the Mediation Board for Cumberland County, the Fayetteville Museum of Art, and the Cumberland County Library of Fine Arts.

Throughout his entire career, Wright has received dozens of awards and accolades.

As a lifelong Trojan, Col. Wright has been giving back to his alma mater for more than 20 years. His contributions has helped countless students and academic programs. In addition to his support of our Tuition Assistance and Annual Funds, Col. Wright established the $100,000 Willie F. Wright Education Endowed Scholarship Fund to benefit VSU education majors who have earned at least a 3.0 gpa and exemplify the qualities of leadership and/ or community service. He is also an active member of the Fayetteville VSU Alumni Chapter in North Carolina.

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Fall 2018

The Buildings Are Gone, But The Legacy Exists Forever

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Taylor-Williams Hall (Buildings A & B) was a three-story residence hall for upper-class females and named in honor of the world-renowned jazz musician Dr. William Edward “Billy” Taylor, and opera artist Dr. Camilla E. Williams. Of note, Taylor’s accolades include the “Jazzmobile,” which was pulled by a truck, and created to bring jazz to the black communities free of charge. He was also a correspondent for CBS News Sunday Morning and conducted more than 250 interviews with musicians. One of Taylor’s most famous songs, “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free,” achieved popularity during the civil rights movement with Nina Simone covering the song in her 1967 album, Silk & Soul. Likewise, Williams garnered many impressive awards and accolades to include her 1945 debut with the City Center Opera Company of New York in the title role of Madame Butterfly, and becoming the first African American to receive a regular contract with a major American opera company; being the guest of President Eisenhower for a concert for the Crown Prince of Japan; receiving a gold medal from the Emperor of Ethiopia, and the key to the city of Taipei, Taiwan.

ver the past few years, Virginia State University has seen expansive growth with the additions of multiple buildings. Construction zones became a common sight on The Hill as new buildings such as the Quads, Gateway and the Multipurpose Center began to sprout.

In order to make way for newer state-of-the art facilities, older buildings were demolished that had become costly to maintain and were not equipped to provide top-notch amenities to students. Below is a brief history of each and their namesakes.

Howard Hall: demolished in 2010, replaced by Quads I and II Howard Hall was one of two residence halls built at the end of the 1950s in the modern architecture style, departing from the Georgian-Revival style used in previous buildings.

Identical to its male counterpart Puryear Hall, Howard Hall was a female dormitory named for Otelia Roberta Shields Howard (1899-1945), English professor and founder of the school newspaper. Howard was a charter member of the Virginia State College Honor Society and the Delta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Barrett-Jackson Hall (Buildings C & D) was a three-story residence hall for upper-class males and was named in honor of Julia Louise Barrett, the Director of Admissions and Registrar from 1926 to 1965 and Henry Colson Jackson who served as Dean of Men. Barrett began her career at Virginia State College for Negroes in 1926 and became the first fulltime registrar.

She was a leader and an officer of the National Association of Deans and Registrars. Henry Colson Jackson’s career spanned seventy years as a teacher and counselor.

Jackson was a member of the Colson family of Petersburg, major contributors to Virginia State. In 1941, he founded The Betterment of Brothers and Sisters.

Puryear Hall: demolished in 2017, replaced by the band practice field Built in 1959, Puryear Hall, named for Rev. Thomas Langston Puryear, Sr., was a four-story residence hall for freshmen males. Rev. Puryear served as Dean of Men at Virginia State College until he left to become Pastor of Epiphany Methodist Church in Orange, N.J. After retiring as a minister and housing project manager, he returned to VSU as Assistant Professor of Basic Education, a position he held until illness forced him to retire. He also served in other capacities, including Assistant Football Coach, Acting Director of Religious Activities, Head Football Coach, Baseball Coach and President of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA).

Nicholas Hall (Building E) was a three-story residence hall named in honor of James F. Nicholas, who in 1944 was invited to join the faculty of Virginia State College where he became an instructor in education and principal of the high school. Dr. James Nicholas was a former rector of the Board of Visitors at VSU.

Simms Hall and Industrial Arts Building: demolished in 2018

Powell Pavilion was a multipurpose building consisting of dining space, meeting rooms and laundry facilities. Dr. Clilan Bethany (C.B.) Powell graduated from Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute in 1913 and Howard University School of Medicine in 1920. Powell was the first AfricanAmerican X-ray specialist and owned a laboratory in Harlem. Switching focus from medicine to business, he purchased the Amsterdam News, the largest newspaper in Harlem. By the 1950s, the Amsterdam News had become the nation’s leading black newspaper because of extensive coverage of the civil rights movement in the South and the growing Black Nationalist sentiment in the northern communities. Contributing authors included Malcolm X, A. Philip Randolph, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Senator Robert F. Kennedy. In addition to being the first African-American Boxing Commissioner in New York, Powell owned Unity Funeral Chapels, the largest Black-owned funeral home in the U.S. with three locations. Dr. Powell and his wife, Mrs. Lena Powell, bequeathed more than $1 million to Virginia State University. The Powell Society, named in their honor, recognizes donors who have made provisions for the University in their estate plans.

In 1938, the Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute purchased the foundation of an old silk mill that sat on the banks of the Appomattox River, and built the Trades Building, later named the F.F. Simms Industrial Arts Building. The 2,800 square foot building was equipped for mechanical arts and agriculture, and would be used for vocational education. Frederick Francoz Simms was the first to receive a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Arts from Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College in Baton Rouge. He was considered a mastermind in the field of iron working and electricity. In 1919, Simms joined Virginia Normal and Industrial Institute as a vocational teacher trainer and teacher of electrical wiring.

The Student Village: demolished in 2011, replaced by Gateway Residence Hall and Dining and Event Center Built in 1980, the Student Village-- commonly referred to as “The Vill”-- consisted of three dormitories and a multi-use building designed in the California architecture style. The dormitories in the Village were named for some of VSU’s most notable alumni, as follows:

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by Maurice B. Jones

Read the full story at www.vsu.edu/about/history.

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Fall 2018

Athletics Celebrated 2018 All Sports Banquet The Virginia State University Athletics Department continued to celebrate its student-athletes at the Spring All-Sports banquet held on campus. The event marked the conclusion of the 2017-18 athletic season.

Each sport program presented its annual academic and athletic team awards during the ceremony: The Student-Athlete of the Year Award, is presented to both a female and male who has excelled competitively and academically. The recipients were seniors Alexis Smith of the women’s basketball team and Trenton Cannon of the men’s football team. Scholar Athlete Alexis Smith made an immediate impact this season for the women’s basketball program where she led the team in points (547) averaging 19.3 per game, threepointers (58), field goals (201), free throws (87), assists (146) and steals (99). Smith was named to the All-CIAA First Team and received several weekly honors.

Trenton Cannon received numerous accolades for his outstanding performance this season. Cannon was selected to play in the 2018 National Football League Player Association Collegiate Bowl that took place on January 20. Cannon led the Trojans to an undefeated regular season, piling up 245 all-purpose yards per game. In addition, he was named the CIAA Offensive Player of the Year, and was the second consecutive VSU player to take home the Lanier award. The Lanier Award is given to the best small-college player. Cannon received the Offensive Back of the Year honor presented by the Touchdown Club of Richmond, Virginia.

Cannon lead the CIAA in overall rushing yards this season (1,387) and rushing yards per game (154.1). He also produced 14 touchdowns on the season. Out of the ten-week regular season, the Hampton, Va. native earned five Offensive Back of the Week honors. Trenton is currently VSU’s All-Time leading rusher with a total of 3,780 yards.

The softball team was the recipient of the Team Highest GPA Award (3.320), with team member Vanessa Ruby receiving the student-athlete highest GPA award. The baseball team received the Community Service Award.

Lashrecse Aird from the Virginia House of Delegates 63rd district presented two resolutions to the football and men’s cross country teams for an outstanding season and for securing the CIAA championship title.

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Fall 2018

Class Notes 1930s

1940s

1950s

Pauline Morton, ’33 was honored posthumously with a Virginia Historical Marker for her service to black schools and civic involvement. Morton graduated from VSU with a B.S. in education and later received her master’s degree in education from Cornell University. Morton is the first woman and first black person in Franklin City, Va. to be recognized with a state marker.

In Memoriam: Ernest Edward Stephens Jr., ’47 passed away in January 2018. Shortly after his matriculation at VSU, World War II began and he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served bravely in the cavalry division nicknamed “The Buffalo Soldiers.”

Following his Honorable Discharge, Stephens became the first black broadcast engineer in Washington, DC, when he accepted a position as broadcast engineer with WOOK Radio, one of the nation’s first black-programmed radio stations.

In Memoriam: (Mary) Elizabeth Christian, ’48 passed away in February 2018. She was a former elementary educator with the Newport News Public and Suffolk Public School Systems in Virginia for over 35 years. She was a charter member of Epsilon Theta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

In Memoriam: Arthur L. Barge Sr., ’50 of Washington, D.C. passed away in April 2018. He retired from Montgomery County Maryland Public Schools.

In Memoriam: Lillie Limpscomb Taylor, ’50 passed away in April 2018. Taylor received her Bachelor of Science degree in business education from VSU. She taught at several schools and retired from Richmond Public Schools in 1992. She became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. while a student and remained active for 67 years.

In Memoriam: Theodore (Ted) Charity, ’52 passed away in April 2018.

He was the founding chapter president of the VSUAA New York Alumni Chapter.

In Memoriam: Blanche A.B. Washington, ’52 passed away in April 2018. She spent 36 years teaching elementary students reading, writing and the rudiments of science.

In Memoriam: Elijah Braxton Sr., ’53 of Norfolk, Va passed away in May 2018. He received his bachelor of science from VSU. In Memoriam: Cardrienne Perrin Griffin, ’55 passed away in April 2018. She was a longtime educator and civil rights activist who cofounded Women Behind the Community. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from VSU and began teaching in Charlotte, N.C. She spent her final 17 years as a teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools.

In Memoriam: Fabius H. Tucker Jr., ’55 passed away in January 2018.

He worked in Norfolk Public School System in Virginia for over 32 years as a band director.

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In Memoriam: Dorothy Lee Forman Cotton, ’56 passed away in June 2018. She graduated from VSU with a degree in English and Library Science. Active in the civil rights movement, she joined the staff with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference as the National Director of Education. As a member of Dr. King’s inner circle, she was at the forefront of the Civil Rights movement. Cotton continued her work to bring about social justice and later founded her own consulting company, conducting seminars on leadership development and social change. Ms. Cotton was a recipient of the National Freedom Award from the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, Tennessee.

In Memoriam: Gloristeen P. Pinkett, ’57 of Trappe, Maryland, passed away in February 2018. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in health and physical education from VSU. In Memoriam: William Brown, Jr., ’58 of White Plains, N.Y. passed away in September 2017. He earned his bachelor degree from VSU in accounting.

In Memoriam: Dr. Ernest L. Turner, ’58 passed away in February 2018.

Dr. Turner was employed in the human services field for 15 years and 10 years at the collegiate level, following a departure from professional sports. His last place of employment was with Virginia State University where he served as a mentor, hospitality specialist and motivator.

In Memoriam: Thomas Anthony Fraley, ’59 passed away in June 2018. He was a resident of California and a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Fall 2018

1960s

In Memoriam: Bert Wellington Holmes Jr., M.D., ’62 passed away in March 2018. He earned his bachelor and master degrees from VSU and served 30 years in the military. Dr. Holmes became the first African American State Surgeon in the National Guard, senior flight surgeon and the first African American assistant adjutant general. He retired as a highly decorated Brigadier General in the Virginia Army National Guard.

In Memoriam: Barbara Todd Overton, ’60 of Oxon Hill, Md., passed away in March 2018. She is survived by her husband, son, sisters and other relatives and friends.

In Memoriam: Edith Robinson Ragsdale, ’60 passed away in January 2018. She earned her bachelor’s degree in library science minoring in English.

In Memoriam: Curtis Calvin Anderson, ’64 passed away in February 2018. He earned his bachelor’s degree and later served in the United States Army. Curtis’ civilian service included 35 years as a public school teacher in Rocky Mount, Danville and Martinsville, Va, and Reidsville, N.C.

In Memoriam: Carolyn Quedell Cooper Taylor, ’60, of Petersburg, Va., passed away in February 2018. Taylor received her bachelor and master of music degrees from VSU. She taught in Hopewell Public Schools for 35 years and served on the faculty at VSU as an adjunct teacher in the music department.

In Memoriam: Pearl Elaine Ross Baker, ’65 of Glen Allen, Va. passed away in March 2018. She is survived by her husband, son, grandchildren, siblings and other relatives.

In Memoriam: Sylvia Adon Austin Riley, ’61 passed away in December 2017.

She was a retired educator with Atlanta Public School System, where she worked for over 30 years.

In Memoriam: James Arthur White, ’67, of Richmond, Va., passed away in June 2018. When World War II began, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. He retired from the military with 20 years of service.

In Memoriam: Samuel Jefferson Butts, ’62 passed away in January 2018. He majored in mathematics and joined the Army Reserved Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). After graduating, Butts began his military career in the United States Army where he ultimately reached the rank of Captain. He was a member of the VSU Alumni Association.

1970s

In Memoriam: Deaconess Martha Macklin Barksdale, ’70 passed away in June 2018. She was a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church in Petersburg, Va., and an active member of the VSUAA Dinwiddie Alumni Chapter.

In Memoriam: Theodore Charles Munro, ’71 passed away in January 2018.

He graduated from VSU with a degree in Business Administration and worked in pharmaceutical sales until his retirement.

In Memoriam: Dwight Ervin Maxwell, ’74 of Decatur, Georgia passed away in June 2018.

In Memoriam: Rev. Dr. Lydia Jiggetts, ’70 passed away in June 2018. She earned her bachelor’s degree in economics. As a social justice advocate, she was part of a team of activists that helped force Richmond area radio and television stations to end their whites-only employment policies and open their doors to African-American talent.

The Hon. Daun Sessoms Hester, ’78 was sworn in as Norfolk City Treasurer in January 2018. She became the first female black city treasurer to lead the office. Hester is a former State Delegate and former Norfolk Vice Mayor.

Hester has a Bachelor of Science degree in education from VSU, graduating cum laude, and she holds a Master of Arts degree in education and human development from George Washington University.

In Memoriam: Dr. Wayne Emory Lewis Sr., ’71 of Quinton, Va., passed away in March 2018. He retired as Assistant Superintendent of Schools in Essex County, Va.

Dr. Jack Thomas, ’84 was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Marguerite Casey Foundation.

Dr. Thomas received his master’s degree from VSU and currently serves as the president of Western Illinois University.

1980s

2000s

Dr. Tammy L. Kernodle, ’91, a professor of musicology at Miami University, was elected President of the Society for American Music. Kernodle will be the second African American woman in the organization’s history to hold the office of president.

1990s

Cassandra Cuffee-Graves, ’93 was selected to be the deputy comptroller for human capital for the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, U.S. Department of Treasury. Graves received her Bachelor of Science degree in marketing and management.

Rodney A. Robinson, ’00 was named Richmond Public Schools’ 2018 Teacher of the Year. Robinson has been a teacher for 17 years and has taught History and Social Studies at Virgie Binford Education Center since 2015.

Dr. Kim Evans, ’03 was appointed superintendent of Greensville County Public Schools in Virginia. Dr. Evans has more than 27 years of experience working in public education.

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Dr. Thomas Whittle, ’11 was named 2018 Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Secondary Principal of the Year. Dr. Whittle serves as principal at Antilles High School in Puerto Rico.

2010s

Dr. David Ellena, ’13 was named 2018 Outstanding Middle School Principal of Virginia by The Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals.

Jacoby Harper, ’14 was one of eleven named in January 2018 as a Virginia Management Fellow by former Governor Terry McAullife.

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Fall 2018

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