Cheyney University Magazine, Fall 2008, Vol. 1



Greetings Alumni, Students, and Friends of Cheyney University, This year the university community will reaffirm our commitment to fulfill the promise of excellence at Cheyney University. The commitment to excellence began in the developing 19th century America with the extraordinary leadership of the early principals of the Institute of Colored Youth—Charles Reason, Ebenezer Don Carlos Bassett, and Fanny Jackson Coppin. It has been sustained through the challenges and opportunities of the 20th century with the outstanding leadership of Presidents Leslie Pinckney Hill, James Duckery, Wade Wilson, and others. In the 21st century, it is still critical that we reaffirm our focus on academic excellence, positive social action, and responsiveness to the needs of the region. We still need to produce a diverse and caring cadre of teachers. Our country needs leaders in the sciences and technological areas to compete successfully with the emerging industries of other countries. Moreover, it is imperative that we continue to respond to the call to develop contributing and responsive citizens who will strengthen the well-being and security of all Americans. We ask that you join with us in preparing a new generation of leaders for the 21st century. Sincerely,

Michelle Howard-V ital, Ph.D . President

A view of Emlen Hall on the attractive Historic Quad of Cheyney University



COVER: Keystone Honors Academy student William Hunter completes preparation for a multimedia presentation in one of Cheyney University’s technologically advanced SMARTTM Classrooms.

highlights Spirit

Cheyney

• Letter to alumni from the president of the Cheyney University National A lumni Association . . . . . . . . . . . 2 • PASSHE welcomes new leadership from the University of West Florida 2 • Your History–CU alumna served as most valuable civil war spy . . . 3 • CU graduate wins election to parliament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 • A lumnus becomes first A frican-A merican 3-star general in USMC . 6 • Stellar artist LaTriece Branson’s portrait of self . . . . . . . . . . . 7 • Staying Connected: News from alumni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 • A lumnus’ amazing triumph against odds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Inauguration 2008

• Cheyney University’s 11th President calls for

renewal of dedication to educational excellence . . . . . . . . . 4

Commencement 2008!

• Nationally-syndicated radio personality, entrepreneur, and advocate for HBCUs addresses the Class of 2008 . . . . . . . 10

Cheyney

The Cheyney University Magazine is published for alumni, donors, faculty, students and friends of Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. P ublisher Michelle R. Howard-Vital, Ph.D. President

M anaging Editor Sulayman Clark, Ed.D.

© Copyright 2008

Vice President of Institutional Advancement

Consultants & designers Geri R. Vital and Philip Pagliaro

PRIDE

• Call Me MISTER program moves ahead . . • CU Students to watch . . . . . . . . . . . . . • Learning and seeing the world . . . . . . . • International programs thrive at CU . . . • Class of ‘08 competes for jobs . . . . . . . . • Students win spots in prestigious program

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CU Athletics on the MOVE • CU Athletics introduce sister-brother act . 16 • New coaches strengthen athletic staff . . . 17

STAYING CONNECTED • Tech Corner: Students get SMARTtm . . . . . • CU is marching to a new beat . . . . . . . . . • CU hosts Ed Gordon’s Daddy’s Promise . . . . • New members of CU family . . . . . . . . . . . • Honor roll of donors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • Local corporations support CU . . . . . . . .

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Web site: www.cheyney.edu Phone: 1-800-CHEYNEY 1837 University Circle Cheyney, PA 19319



Spirit

Cheyney

Dear Fellow Alumni: “It’s all about people helping people.” This was the answer I gave to the question, “What is the Alumni Association doing?” The Cheyney University Alumni Association’s mission has changed little since its birth in 1862. Initially, the organization was founded out of need. There simply were very few places where graduates could teach, mostly because of racism. More importantly, the Paul Turner graduates did not always know where these places were. To overcome this dilemma, alumni who did know helped the graduates who were in need. This need still continues today. The unasked question that was probably on that person’s mind was, “Why should I get involved?” The answer is simple: because Cheyney University needs you. One does not have to do much research to see the need. Local newspapers constantly exploit this need to sell their papers. However, if Cheyney University were completely solvent, your assistance would still be needed to maintain the solvency. It would seem that CU’s small size might lessen the number of problems, but its small size actually has the opposite effect. Certain enrollment minimums are required for state-owned universities to be fiscally stable. This size once had its advantages in that students received more individualized attention. The call is now to increase enroll-

alumni

ment, but the need for individual attention remains. CU’s faculty is still most concerned about the education and welfare of its students, and, despite limitations, they are doing a good job. One just has to observe the deeds of this year’s graduating class to corroborate this. How can alumni help? We should talk up our alma mater. Encourage young people to attend. Don’t let anyone tell you that the students at Cheyney University party too much. My answer to this comment is that people of like attainment flock together. For the most part, students look for constructive activities.

Once they matriculate, don’t forget about them. Join other alumni who interact with the students on Sunday afternoons and play board games. Visit the campus. Help strengthen that big brother/sister relationship that was a trademark of the Cheyney University family. Let our students know how much we depend on them to succeed. They must know that we really need them as much as they need us. Just get involved. Finally, the Alumni Association has developed a website that will tell the Cheyney University story. We are taking a page from President Howard-Vital’s playbook by creating better communication. It is our objective to better inform alumni through this medium. Cheyney University needs your help. We need your help. Thank you for your cooperation. I look forward to seeing you on campus. Yours in the Spirit of Cheyney,

Paul A. Turner

Paul A. Turner, ’62 President, National Alumni Association

New Leadership for PASSHE The Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania System of Higher Education (PASSHE) selected Dr. John C. Cavanaugh to become the third chancellor of the system. Dr. Cavanaugh, who was president of the 10,400-student University of West Florida, attended St. Joseph’s College in Philadelphia before earning a bachelor’s degree John C. Cavanaugh, Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Delaware in 1975. He also earned both a master’s and 

Ph.D. degrees in psychology from the University of Notre Dame and served as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Research in Human Learning and the Institute of Child Development. Prior to his presidency, Dr. Cavanaugh also served as provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs at The University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Dr. Cavanaugh is married to Dr. Christine Kamenjar Cavanaugh. He is an author, avid traveler, and backpacker and in his spare time, he enjoys cooking and photography.

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CU Alumna Considered Most Valuable Spy of Civil War Mary Elizabeth Bowser was born a slave around 1839 on the Richmond plantation of John Van Lew, a well-to-do Virginia hardware merchant. After Van Lew died, his wife and their daughter, Elizabeth, freed his slaves and purchased a number of their slaves’ family members, whom they also freed. One of them, Mary, stayed with the Van Lew family as a servant until the late 1850s. Elizabeth, an abolitionist and Quaker, provided Mary with an education at the Quaker-established Institute for Colored Youth in Philadelphia, now known as Cheyney University. After she graduated, Mary returned and married a free black man, Wilson Bowser, on April 16, 1861, just days before the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Living on the outskirts of Richmond, Bowser remained close with the like-minded Van Lew family. As a result, Elizabeth Van Lew’s chronicle of their closely-connected activities offered insights into Bowser that might have otherwise been lost. Elizabeth Van Lew, shunned by many for her Union loyalty, was still well-placed in Richmond. But she chose to pretend to be eccentric, talking to herself and behaving oddly. As a woman of means, she was tolerated, but became known around town as “Crazy Bet.” During the war, she helped operate a spy network within the capitol of the Confederacy, providing sustenance and assisting escapes by both Union soldiers and slaves. Like Van Lew, Bowser adopted an alternate persona and became “Ellen Bond,” a dull-witted, but hardworking servant. At Van Lew’s insistence, Bowser helped serve at functions hosted by Varina Davis, the wife of Confederate president, Jefferson Davis. Varina was favorably impressed with Mary and hired her to work permanently. Perceived as one of the ignorant and illiterate negroes commonplace in the South, Mary gained access to military plans intended only for the eyes of President Davis himself. Thomas McNiven, a Richmond baker whose business served as the hub for the Union spy network, regularly made deliveries to the Davis household where “igno-

rant” Mary could chat daily without suspicion. In the transcribed chronicles of McNiven’s great-nephew, Robert W. Waitt Jr., Bowser became the ultimate source of information, “as she was working right in the Davis home and had a photographic mind. Everything she saw on the rebel president’s desk, she could repeat word for word.” (Waitt, Thomas McNiven Papers). Toward the end of the war, Mary’s pretense was uncovered, and she fled in the winter of 1865, but not before unsuccessfully attempting to torch “the Confederate White House.” After the war ended, to protect its spies when they returned to homes in the South, the federal government destroyed its records– including McNiven’s and Van Lew’s–which could have better described what Bowser relayed to General Ulysses S. Grant. Bowser’s life after the war remains a mystery, including when, where, or how she died. In 1995, Mary Elizabeth Bowser was inducted into the Military Intelligence Corps Hall of Fame for the part her perilous work played in ending the bloodshed of the Civil War. 

Inauguration 2008 : F ulfilling by Michelle Howard-Vital, the 11th president Inauguration is a time for recognizing new beginnings, for reaffirming our shared vision, and for acknowledging our collective futures. Inauguration is also a time to reflect on our journey and to understand our purpose as links in the chain of human evolution. In 1837, Richard Humphreys, a member of the Society of Friends, bequeathed $10,000 for the benefit of instructing the descents of the African race in school learning in various branches of mechanical arts, trades, and in agriculture. This bequest was both about education and social action. The Institute for Colored Youth (ICY) emerged from the Humphreys’ bequest and the constant stewardship of the Society of Friends. Also, in 1837, Fanny Jackson Coppin was born in Washington, D.C., as a slave. While she was still a young girl, her aunt purchased her for the sum of $125. In her memoirs, Fanny Jackson Coppin describes a love of learning that was influenced by the interactions she experienced in the home of the great grandson of Lord Baltimore. The passion for learning and for giving greatly influenced the amazing life journey of Fanny Jackson Coppin. She was the second African- American woman to graduate from Oberlin College. While in college, she studied French, Latin, and Mathematics, and she tutored the children of Oberlin faculty on the piano. Fanny Jackson also became the first African-American student teacher at Oberlin College. Arriving at ICY initially to serve as head of the Girl’s Department, Fanny Jackson Coppin eventually became principal of the Institute for Colored Youth in 1869. She was the first African-American woman to hold the position of principal in the United States. She followed mathematician Charles Reason who was the first principal of the Institute for Colored Youth (195256) and Ebenezer Don Carlos Bassett, 2nd Principal and 1st African-American diplomat to Haiti who expanded the curriculum to include the classics, mathematics, and literary subjects. 

Fanny Jackson Coppin used her position as principal to bring about educational and social change. She introduced the normal school department, teacher training, and a practice teaching system. In addition to her pedagogical foundations she brought to the Institute for Colored Youth, Fanny Jackson was engaged in the Philadelphia community. She served on boards, served as a French interpreter in the Philadelphia court system, and was active in religious life. Ms. Jackson supported many causes, one of which was the education of males of African descent. Ms. Jackson noted that in order for these men to learn certain trades, they had to first serve in the prison. Thus, Fanny Jackson started the industrial arts department which included bricklaying, carpentry, shoemaking, plastering and tailoring, to name a few. Fanny Jackson married a minister in 1881 becoming Fanny Jackson Coppin. After her retirement from ICY, she travelled with him to Cape Town, South Africa organizing missionary societies for almost a decade. With the leadership of Fanny Jackson Coppin, the Institute for Colored Youth became one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning for persons of African descent in the 19th century. It was viewed as an Institute of stellar academic repute, and its subjects included advanced algebra, geometry, Greek, Latin, and literary subjects, industrial arts, and teacher training. Fanny Jackson Coppin encouraged her students to excel, and a remarkable numbers of them went on to become physicians, lawyers, and educators. Fanny Jackson Coppin served for nearly forty years at the ICY. She helped to establish our legacy of excellence. There were many amazing American leaders that exemplify the excellence of the Institute of Colored Youth these include Dr. Edward Alexander Bouchet who was the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in Physics from Yale University in 1876. He taught chemistry and physics for twenty-six years at the

the Promise of Excellence Institute for Colored Youth. Rebecca Cole graduate of the ICY was the first African-American woman to study medicine at the Woman’s Medical College in Pennsylvania. Pliny Locke, the father of Alain Locke and the first African-American Rhodes Scholar, taught at ICY before pursuing a law degree at Howard University. In 19th century Philadelphia, graduates of the ICY were in the vanguard for AfricanAmerican teachers. In 1904, the Institute moved southwest of Philadelphia to Cheyney farm. The same year, Leslie Pinckney Hill began his teaching career at Tuskegee Institute, under the leadership of Booker T. Washington. Leslie Pinckney Hill had previously earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Harvard University graduating cum laude. At Harvard, he was also named class orator. In 1913, Leslie Pinckney Hill began his career at the ICY which would evolve from the ICY to Cheyney Training School for Teachers in 1914, State Normal College in 1920, to the state accredited Cheyney State Teachers College in 1951. Leslie Pinckney Hill became the first president of the State Normal College. During his nearly forty years at Cheyney University, Leslie Pinckney Hill epitomized the Renaissance man and contributed to the Harlem Renaissance. He served as dramatist, poet, lecturer, choir director, and public servant. Hill articulated his philosophy of education and its role in his various poetry, essays and other work. Leslie Hill believed that the human family is one; the human spirit is resilient. President Hill is known for his passion for Cheyney University, his building of good will in the neighboring Quaker population, his extensive touring with the Cheyney University Chorus, his work for the MercyDouglas Hospital in Philadelphia, and for his scholarship in numerous journals. President Leslie Pinckney Hill continued the legacy of excellence. Cheyney University is built from a vision of hope, a demonstration of courage, and a commitment to

excellence. There have been extraordinary American leaders from the various evolutions of Cheyney University. Cheyney University and its precursors have prepared exceptional leaders for the 20th and 21st century. Some of these leaders who have demonstrated excellence and commitment to positive social action include Journalists Ed Bradley, Robert Traynham, and Jim Vance; Educators Juan Baughn, Bernadette Carter; Entrepreneurs Robert Bogle, Sam Patterson, Mercer Redcross, Craig Welburn, and Dr. Loretta Evans, physicians Walter Wynne and Kennisha Gilbert; writers and educators like Sulayman Clark, and thousands of teachers for the Philadelphia School District. When we review the lives of ordinary Americans like Fanny Coppin Jackson and Leslie Pinckney Hill who performed extraordinary service—our path is clear. We must seize this opportunity called Cheyney University to do our part to continue to build a resilient, responsible, diverse, and secure America. When we discuss the potential and successes of our students, some remark that good students are exceptions to the typical Cheyney University students. This could not be farther from the truth. All of our students represent the potential for what America can be. All of our students have the potential for academic excellence, positive social action, and service. The story of Cheyney University includes the stories of many more ordinary and extraordinary Americans who have sacrificed their personal comfort and ease for the welfare and future of other Americans. Faculty, staff, and students must continue to fulfill the promise of excellence in daily actions. It is our turn to reaffirm the promise of excellence for new generations. It is our turn to contribute to the generations who are yet to come. It is our turn to fulfill the promise of excellence! 

alumni CU Grad Elected to Parliament Spirit

Cheyney

Another demonstration that Cheyney University produces leaders who use the knowledge gained at the university to advance the welfare of the global community is clearly seen in alumnus Patrick Simmons’ campaign to become a member of parliament of the Caribbean country of Grenada.

Minister Patrick Simmons

As the successful candidate of the National Democratic Congress in the July elections, Simmons comfortably defeated his opponent and helped his party secure ten of the fourteen parliamentary seats. On July 13th, he was sworn in as the nation’s Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Empowerment.

When Simmons enrolled at CU in the fall of 1985 and declared a major in Recreation, it

seemed a natural progression for the former track and field star and later the “games master” (head coach) of the St. Andrews Anglican Secondary School, and member of the Grenadan national basketball team. He would later change direction, graduating in 1999 with a degree in dietetics, thus paving the way for his acceptance into the St. Georges Medical School in his native Grenada. However, Simmons would soon return to his earlier passion of working with young people, this time as principal of his old high school. Not long afterwards, armed with a master’s degree from the St. Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies in Trinidad, he began to teach at the Grenada National College. Simmons readily acknowledges the nurturing he received from the Cheyney community, and the confidence that the faculty inspired in him. He felt that as a student at Cheyney University, he was encouraged and motivated to aim for excellence and to achieve more than he had ever imagined possible.

CU Salutes General Ronald S. Coleman, ‘73 Lieutenant General Ronald S. Coleman is the Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs. A native of Darby, PA, he is only the second African American to earn the rank of Lieutenant General in the United States Marine Corps with three-star status.  After serving in the Navy during the Vietnam War, Coleman completed his undergraduate studies at Cheyney University in 1973, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Marine Corps in 1974. Coleman was promoted to lieutenant colonel in May 1992, and promoted to colonel in July 1997. He returned to Camp Lejeune in 1998 for duty with the 2nd Marine Division as the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-4. In April 1999, he deployed to the Balkan Region and served as J-4, Joint Task Force Shining Hope. He assumed command of 2nd Supply Battalion in July 1999. In June 2001, he reported to HQMC as the Assistant Deputy Commandant Installations and Logistics and was promoted to brigadier general in November 2002. General Coleman deployed in June 2003 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom as Commanding General Special Purpose MAGTF until November 2003. He 

deployed again from February 2004 until June 2004 as Commanding General, Combined Joint Task Force Haiti, in support of Operation Secure Democracy. For his leadership in Haiti, the French government awarded him the Gold Medal of French Defense. The French also made him an honorary member of the 33rd French Marine Infantry Regiment. At a ceremony in 2005, marking Coleman’s completion of his tour as commander of the 2nd Force Services Group, Lieutenant General James F. Amos, commanding general of II Marine Expeditionary Force was quoted as saying, “If a measure of a man is by the number of people who call him a friend or come up to him to shake his hand, General Coleman is among the richest men I know.”

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LaTreice Branson’s Portrait of Self LaTreice Victoria Branson, a native of Indian Head, Md., moved to Philadelphia with her family in 1998. She attended the Philadelphia High School for girls from 1998 to 2001. After graduating, at the age of 18, LaTriece started her first business, “Triece’s Peaces Fine Art,” and marketed her artwork at many fairs and exhibits in the Maryland-New Jersey-Pennsylvania area through her college career.

LaTreice Branson (‘05)

At Cheyney University, her talents quickly emerged and with encour-

agement not only completed B.A. degrees in Communications and Fine Art, but often sought opportunities to engage and encourage other students. LaTreice served as a student ambassador for all four years and, which made it easy for students to choose who they wanted for Miss Cheyney University in 2003. Always on the dean’s list, and valedictorian for the Class of 2005, LaTreice was honored with a Graduate Enrichment Fellowship from Ohio State University to pursue an Masters of Fine Art in the area of photography. She has had several of her “Face 2 Face” self-portraits accepted for display in two of the OSU collections. First to graduate with a Graduate Interdisciplinary

Specialization in Fine Art, LaTreice now serves as a lecturer in the Department of Art teaching digital and film photography. Her most recent work on “Reflected Blackness” has been displayed in galleries at several colleges and universities throughout the Ohio region, often accompanied by her lectures on race, identity and “blackness.” “I have learned to appreciate change. I believe every woman should. From the time we are born, we are changing. We get fat, get ugly, get cute, get mad, get skinny again, and get self-conscious when someone says we’re too this and too that. We’re never satisfied. We keep our disgust with us for days and months and years. We all wear our life experiences very uniquely. Some of us will hide our pain beside the ever-increasing fat on our sides, in our dim wrinkling faces, and under our low sloping breasts… But some, will learn to wear their life with dignity and grace; unashamed of tears and of past pains. They will live long lives and will be honored for their resilience and endurance. These women will be loving and kind. I hope to be named among these women in my golden years.” “My art is about my ‘self.’ My life for the past several years is written in my paintings… photographs are all that exist of many of my experiences, questions and memories. I am remembering, while trying to forget… The paintings, the photographs, the music…it’s all a part of my intimate renewal.” 

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Spirit

Cheyney

Dr. Millicent Hall Hunter, Class of ‘72, is the author of Don’t Die

staying connected

in the Winter, Your Season Is Coming. This book examines the spiritual cycles of highs and lows that people experience and compares them to the transient seasons of nature. Dr. Hunter’s inspiring examples and suggestions remind readers that “spiritual winters” are simply one of the spiritual seasons that can strengthen character and test personal growth. Dr. Hunter is founder and Senior Pastor of The Baptist Worship Center of Philadelphia. From starting out with only five members in a modest row house in West Philadelphia, the ministry has grown to greater than three thousand members in fewer than ten years.

Guy Holiday was named wide receivers coach at the University of Texas at El Paso. His coaching career began at Clark Atlanta University. He earned his bachelor of arts degree from Cheyney University in 1987. Roger Leysath is the owner of Leysath Security Consultant firm, which he started in 2007. He was the recipient of the 2007 Fatherhood Essence award and a member of the Cheyney University Class of 1979.

Randy Monroe, head basketball coach at University of Maryland Bal-

timore County, has won America East Conference coach of the year honors. Last year his team, the Retrievers, won the America East Conference regular-season and tournament titles with a school record 24 wins. While at CU in 1982, he was named one of the top freshmen on the East Coast by Eastern Basketball Magazine. He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Administration in 1987.

Fred Pickett , Class of 1986, has announced his retirement as head

men’s basketball coach of Chester High School. During his tenure, he comRandy Monro piled an overall record of 331 wins with 33 losses. He won three state chame, (‘83) pionships, eight district championships, and 10 consecutive league championships. He is the first coach from Chester High School to win three (3) State Championships. In his career, he has coached outstanding players such as Jameer Nelson (NBA-Orlando Magic).

Wayne M. Richardson, Class of 1970, graduated from Temple University School

of Law with a Juris Doctorate in 1976. In 1983, Mr. Richardson was appointed the first Chief Legal Counsel of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. From 1996-2002, Mr. Richardson was Employment and Labor Counsel for Rutgers University. Since 2002, Mr. Richardson has served as General Counsel and Secretary of the Corporation at Fairleigh Dickinson University. He is admitted to the practice of law in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, and to the bars of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and the Third U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Lawrence Richards graduated from Cheyney University in

1977 with a BA in political science. He also earned a M.S. in criminal justice from West Chester University. Mr. Richards has participated in professional development at the FBI Academy. After 25 years in the Yeadon Police Department, he has joined Cheyney University as Chief of Public Safety. We want to hear from you!



Chief Richar

ds, (‘77)

Please send information to be included in the next issue of Cheyney University Magazine to: Office of Alumni Relations Cheyney University, 1837 University Circle P. O. Box 200, Cheyney, PA 19319-0200

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CU Alumnus’ Amazing Triumph Against Odds Dr. Nathaniel J. Williams is a CEO, author, and holds a doctorate of education. His amazing life journey began as an orphan and foster child. He has proven that success can be attained when a person possesses commitment, tenacity, and integrity. On his journey, Dr. Williams has been a direct care worker, foster parent, entrepreneur, nonprofit and for-profit Chief Executive Officer, adjunct professor, scholar-in-residence, and motivational speaker.

From the age of 5 through the age of 18, after the death of his mother from a cranial aneurism, Dr. Williams and 9 of his ) 07 (‘ s, m ia 11 brothers and sisters grew up in J. Will Dr. Nathaniel the New York City foster care system. This experience left an indelible mark on his life and professional work. He has worked continuously to develop options and opportunities that he and his siblings did not have when they were served by the human service system. Dr. Williams is proud to have earned one of his three graduate degrees from the nation’s oldest historically Black university. He completed his master’s in public administration (MPA) from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. In addition, he earned a master’s in human services (MHS) from Lincoln University, and his doctorate in education (Ed.D.) at Fielding Graduate University. Since 1993, Dr. Williams has been the President and CEO of HumanWorks Affiliates, Inc., a cluster of eight corporations focused on human services. These corporations provide group homes, foster care and life sharing, supports for individuals living independently, leisure and recreation excursions, training and professional development, and the making and selling of gift arrangements. He has over 200 employees and supervises an operating budget of over $10 million. Prior to 1993, Dr. Williams worked as a director of human resources and operations, unit director, residence manager, and teaching parent in organizations serving adults with mental health challenges, developmental disabilities, and dependent children.

Dr. Williams is very interested in the areas of personal and professional development. He truly wants to enable people to reach their fullest potential. He spends a great amount of time and energy providing training and workshops for employees and community members in areas such as stress management, time management, ethics, conflict avoidance and resolution, and customer service and loyalty. Dr. Williams serves on the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, Inc., South Eastern Pennsylvania Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc., and Vision for Equality, Inc. He also is a member of the Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs Planning Advisory Committee (past Co-Chair), Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council, Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare Stakeholder Planning Team, and the Wachovia Bank’s Business Segment Banking Advisory Board. In May 2007, he was awarded the 2007-2008 Frederick Douglass Institute (FDI) Scholar in Residence position at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. He is Kutztown University’s first yearlong FDI scholarin-residence. He lectures, holds discussion groups, and authors articles for inclusion in journals on education and cultural diversity. Dr. Williams has recently published a book entitled The Navigator of Life, which was written to help people learn about themselves, conduct thorough inventories of their lives and make the decisions necessary to affect real and lasting changes. More information is available at www.thenavigatoroflife.com. In August 2007, Dr. Williams began serving as an adjunct professor at Caldwell College in New Jersey. He teaches courses in group dynamics, marriage and family counseling, and multicultural counseling in the graduate psychology program. Dr. Williams, his wife Tade, and their six children (5 boys and 1 girl) reside in Lehigh County, Pa. 

Cheyney University

Newly hooded, Tom Joyner beams with Cheyney Pride at being awarded the Honorary Doctorate of Public Service degree for his extraordinary work toward increasing awareness of current issues, stimulating civic responsibility, and raising college scholarship funds for financiallychallenged youth.

“Doc Flyjock” Tom Joyner Addresses Nationally syndicated radio show host Tom Joyner served as the keynote speaker for Commencement exercises at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania on Saturday, May 10, at 9 a.m. on the Historic Quad. Joyner is one of the most influential, inspirational, and dynamic media personalities in the country today. A native of Tuskegee, Alabama, Joyner is much more than a radio 10

personality: He is an entrepreneur, an entertainer and a philanthropist. He is founder of REACH Media Inc., the Tom Joyner Foundation, BlackAmericaWeb.com, and host of the leading nationally-syndicated morning radio show, The Tom Joyner Morning Show. Joyner, known as ‘The Hardest Working Man in Radio,’ has distinguished himself as one of the most recognized

Commencement 2008

Senator Anthony Williams of Pennsylvania State Senate District Eight, relishes the opportunity to honor his mother, Carole Williams, a former Cheyney University student, in a surprise segment of the commencement ceremony.

Graduates at Commencement 2008 and revered media personalities in the country. He has won virtually every top radio award including the prestigious “Marconi Award” and the nation’s leading network/syndicated personality in the country and is also a 1999 Radio Hall of Fame inductee. The International Radio and Television Society (IRTS) chose him for one of their highest honors, acknowledging his work with black

colleges, and Broadcasting & Cable Magazine inducted him into its Hall of Fame. He is a graduate of Tuskegee (Institute) University in Alabama. Reminding students that by completing their degrees they were “adding more zeros to their salaries,” (continued on page 24)

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Pride

Cheyney

student

The “Call Me Mister” Program With the guidance of State Representative James Roebuck, Cheyney University is entering its first full-year of the Call Me Mister Program. There are currently ten students enrolled in the program pursuing degrees in teacher education. “The goal is to continue to admit students until there are at least twenty students participating in the program,” states Dr. Cathine Gilchrist, dean of the school of education, graduate studies, and continuing education. There is a sense of urgency for programs like the Call Me Mister program because many teachers are retiring across America, and the teaching workforce is becoming even less diverse than before. In many respects, the focus on teacher education is not only needed, but it beckons Cheyney University to return to its teacher education foundation and its legacy of excellent

teacher education. From the Institute for Colored Youth, once located at 9th and Bainbridge in South Philadelphia, through today, Cheyney University has produced a cadre of talented teacher leaders who have taught thousands of students in Philadelphia and far beyond the region. These teachers add to the remarkable history of leaders in education from Octavius Catto to Dr. Juan Baughn. Cheyney University is the fourth HBCU to join the Call Me Mister Program which commenced in South Carolina at Clemson University as a strategy to recruit a diverse pool of teacher leaders. The Call Me Mister Program is still accepting applications. Interested students should contact Dr. Cathine Gilchrist at 610-399-2088.

Debut of CU Student Magazine Student Government President, George Bush; Hana Wilder, and a host of talented students are in the process of assembling, publishing and distributing undergrad, a Cheyney University magazine, created by Cheyney University students for Cheyney University students. The magazine debuts fall 2008 and features in its cover story plans SGCA President, George Bush and Miss Cheyney 2008, Imani Johnson have to change campus life at CU. From the first glance, this magazine appears to be another demonstration of exceptional CU talent, capability, and PRIDE!

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CU Students to watch: Fawaaz Fields, a junior Keystone Honors Academy Scholar, has gained an applied learning experience through an internship with State Senator Vincent Hughes. Fields, a political science major, worked directly with the Senator and his staff to organize programs that served the constituency of the 7th Senatorial District. Working in the Department of Constituent Services, Fields was the point intern for the Show Me the Money: Protection from the Recession Financial Rescue Community meeting. He successfully provided oversight for the event and was responsible for delegating tasks and deadlines to the other departments. In this first of its kind internship with Senator Hughes, Fields contributed to the many programs and events that are sponsored by the Senator and assisted in providing solutions for the 249, 258 constituents served in the district. “It’s a wonderful opportunity and feeling to service the very people who had a hand in raising my siblings and me,” he added. “It has been a challenging and engaging program; which is truly strengthening the skills that I have gained from my education at Cheyney.” Under State Senator Hughes, the Office of Constituent Services sponsors programs such as Guns for Goods, Breaking the Silence with Mental Health, Parenthood Conference with PHEAA, Show Me The Money: A Road Map to Financial Aid to College, Couples Getting Tested for HIV/Aids, The Annual James Hughes Scholarship Golf Classic and many other initiatives. Senator Hughes is a member of the Cheyney University Council of Trustees. As a Keystone Honors Academy Scholar, Fawaaz Fields has shown equal dedication to his academics and to providing service. During the spring 2008 semester, he served as a delegate to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Civic Responsibility Conference. He is also involved in many different organizations on campus such as the Cheyney University Marching Band, Vice President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Delta Pi Chapter, former Governor of Social & Cultural Affairs for S.G.C.A. (2007-2008) and the former Freshman Class President (2006-2007).

Vernae Coleman, also a Keystone Honors Acad-

emy Scholar, studied four years of the Chinese language while finishing her studies at William Bodine High School for International Affairs. She credits her attendance at CU to her high school counselor who was a CU alumnus.

In her freshmen year at CU, Vernae Coleman served as Freshmen Class Secretary, Cheyney University cheerleader and member of the varsity tennis team. She also volunteered to help with a variety of Keystone Honors Academy activities including the Keystone Tea. The summer following freshmen year, Vernae Coleman participated in an internship with INROADS program where she worked with Tyco Healthcare Retail Group in the new business development department in the King of Prussia, PA. In her sophomore year, she held the positions of Sophomore Class President, recording secretary for the Student Government Cooperative Association (SGCA), and excelled academically. “I have been blessed with many wonderful opportunities, “ states Vernae Coleman. “I love Cheyney University, and I have every intention to continue to succeed in everything that I do during my time here.” 13

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Learning and Seeing the World:

Two Keystone Honors Academy Students Enjoy a Wok in China Mawule Sevon and Courtney Guy were competitively selected by the Keystone Honors Academy to receive a scholarship to study abroad in China during the summer. The students KHA student Mawule Sevon takes in one of participated in the wonders of the world–the Great Wall. the PASSHE Summer Honors Program China Today: People, Policies and Preferences, which was sponsored by Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania. Researching a combination of Chinese culture and mathematical elements of survey design and analysis, the students studied at the Shandung University of Technology and at the Yunnan Normal University. Focusing on sociological elements of the modern Chinese in transition, the location of study provided an excellent application of their studies. Shandong Province reflects the rapid industrialization and modernization that is happening along China’s eastern provinces. In stark contrast, the second location of Yunnan is a southwestern province rich in minority

ethnic traditions, giving the students a balanced perspective on China’s diverse people, cultures, and history. The students also visited Beijing and Shanghai and major sites, including the Great Wall. A junior psychology major, Mawule Sevon commented on her experience studying abroad in China, saying “I will carry these lessons with me throughout my life!” A junior education major, Courtney Guy also indicated that this experience will further expand her approach to teaching. Every year, the Keystone Honors Academy selects two students to participate in the PASSHE Summer Honors Program, a system-wide study abroad program. The opportunity to study abroad gives students a greater perspective on who they are in relationship to the world. Not only do students gain an appreciation for the intellectual and cultural diversity of the world’s population, but they gain an understanding of our interdependences. After their studies and touring, Courtney and Mawule relax and sample some truly authentic Chinese cuisine.

International Programs Thrive at CU

The Office of International Programs concluded a very active 2007-08 year with its Cheyney University International Festival, an event which has now become the annual tradition during the first full week of April. This festival included presentations on the crisis in the Darfur region of Sudan by the president of the Darfur Alert Coalition of Philadelphia, Dr. Ali B. Ali-Dinar, who is the grandson of the last king of Darfur, Sultan Ali-Dinar. He was joined by Mr. Burt Seigel, chair of the Coalition’s communications committee. A highlight of the festival was the announcement of the successful chartering of Cheyney University’s Eta Alpha chapter of the Phi Beta Delta Honor Society for International Scholars. Founded in 1986 with the aim of recognizing the scholarly achievements of international students, scholars, and those who have studied abroad, Phi Beta Delta is the first honor society dedicated to recognizing excellence in international education. The Greek letters comprising the name of the society symbolize the following; Phi: Love of knowledge; Beta: Value of Human life; and Delta: achieving excellence. The Middle East Center of the University of Pennsylvania collaborated with the CU Office of International Programs to present Habiba’s Middle East Dancers, including both performances and presentations on historical Egyptian dances and modern Middle-Eastern dance. 14

news

Class of 2008 Competes for Jobs

Did you know that 36% of Cheyney University graduates had employment offers and new careers lined up for them before they walked across the stage at Commencement? In addition, 11% of CU grads had already been accepted into graduate school programs. As we salute our Class of 2008, we encourage the class of 2009 to connect now with campus resources to work on post graduation plans. The Center for Career & Professional Development, the Keystone Honors Academy, and faculty are always available to assist with career planning and graduate school applications. Some of our graduates from the business administration program will move on to many of the top corporations in the country. Julbert Abrahams will join Enterprise Rent-A-Car Corporation, and Isaac Moore and Porschall Cooper will accept positions with Target Corporation. Graduates pursuing careers in the public sector include Charlita Glover, an accounting major, hired by the Defense Contract Audit Agency to work at the Lockheed Martin facility in New Jersey, and Celsus Roberts, who will work with the Department of Human Services in Philadelphia. Communications major Tynisha Hill became a staff writer at the Washington Informer, and recreation major Paulette Branson was hired as the sports director at the Rocky Run YMCA in Media. Some graduates, like US Coast Guard officer candidate, Karin Evelyn, will take Cheyney University’s name quite far. Former Miss Cheyney and FMM graduate Monica Draine has moved to Arkansas to take up her position as a Merchant Trainee with the Wal-Mart Corporation. Theatre major, Talib Andre Hester, has signed on as a production assistant with the Disney organization in Southern California. Other organizations where you can find members of the Class of 2008 include: Philadelphia Department of Recreation, PFPC, Horsham Clinic, EFG Marketing Solutions, The Vanguard Group, and Educational Testing Services. We are also proud of Cheyney University alumni who were already accepted into graduate school programs. These include Darien Totten, a psychology major who was accepted into the Masters in Social Work program the University of Pittsburgh. Carlena Gatewood will also be attending U. Pitt this fall to pursue a Masters in Education.

CU Students Win Spots in Prestigious Language Immersion Program Two Cheyney University students pursuing minors in French, Anthony Cataldi and April Jones, were accepted into the world-renowned Middlebury College Language Schools for the summer of 2008. The Language Schools of this prestigious Vermont institution offer instruction in ten different languages, providing a total immersion experience for the students in the particular language they are studying. Classroom instruction, residential living, dining facilities and a host of co-curricular activities all operate under the program’s “No English Spoken Here” policy. Students earn nine credits, but generally gain more exposure to the language than they normally would in a year of instruction in a traditional setting. Anthony Cataldi has the distinction of being the recipient

of the Language School’s HBCU scholarship, an award aimed at attracting students from minority institutions and encouraging them to pursue advanced studies in world languages. The funding covers the complete cost of the program including tuition, room and board. Only twelve scholarships were offered nationally. Cataldi, a psychology major, plans to continue on to graduate school, and to travel widely, putting his language skills to use in service to both French and English-speaking clients. Jones, a political science major, plans to become a diplomat and aims to become proficient in several languages. 15

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CU Athletics Introduces a Brother-Sister Act to the PSAC Stephens Gets Nod to Guide Lady Wolves

Stephens Takes the Reins for Men’s B-Ball

Philadelphia native Marilyn Stephens was selected as head women’s basketball coach at Cheyney University. Stephens is Temple University’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder. She was a member of the US Women’s Junior Olympic Team in ‘81 and was invited to the US Olympic trials in ‘84. In 1983 and 1984 she was the Atlantic 10 and Big 5 Player of the Year and inducted into the Big 5 Hall of Fame in ‘89. She was a Kodak All-American in 1984, Temple’s only women’s basketball player ever to earn the distinction. Her #33 was also the only womens’ number that has been retired. A 1984 graduate of Temple with a Bachelors of Science in Physical Education, Stephens holds records in ten categories. In 1993, she earned her Master of Science in Physical Education from Florida International University.

After five seasons as an assistant coach under Cleo Hill Jr., Dominique Stephens has been named interim head men’s basketball coach. Stephens is a native of Philadelphia and the younger brother of Cheyney University’s new women’s head coach and former Temple All-American women’s basketball player, Marilyn Stephens.

Upon graduation she was named as an assistant coach for the Lady Owls through 1987. During the 1987-88 season, Stephens went on to play professionally in Italy and Spain. The following season, she went back to the sidelines as an assistant coach at FIU. From 199093, she was assistant director to Wali Jones of Miami Heat’s NBA Basketballology Camp. After four years at Southwood Middle School (Miami), Stephens coached at Coral Reef Senior High School in Miami where she has been since ‘97. From 2003-07, Stephens coached disabled athletes and was awarded the Junior Orange Bowl David Bercuson Award for outstanding coaching for disabled athletes in the Sports Ability Games in Miami. Since 2005, she has also been the President of Nothin’ But Net Basketball Skills Camp in Miami at Robert Morgan High School in Miami. 16

Stephens has been part of many championships and great teams from Philadelphia and Durham, North Carolina. From past to present, he was a member of the Dobbins High School Football team and 1984 basketball team that consisted of Doug Overton, Bo Kimble, and the late Hank Gathers. That famous hoop squad went on to win the Philadelphia Public League Championship. After high school, Stephens enrolled at North Carolina Central University. As a sophomore, NCCU posted a 26-3 mark. The following year the NCCU won the NCAA Division II title with a 28-4 season. The championship season, Stephens was named to the NCAA Tournament Team. In his senior year, the Eagles went 28-5. Stephens was inducted into the North Carolina Central University Hall of Fame in 1995. After college, Stephens signed to play professionally in the Philippians Basketball League. In 2000, he was a member of the Lancaster Storm of the Eastern Basketball League. While always dreaming to play in the NBA, Stephens continued his schooling earning his Bachelors of Science in Mathematics from NCCU in 1992. Stephens went on to earn a Masters of Science in Human Services from Springfield College in 2002. He is the father of current Cheyney University standout Dominique Curry.

news

CU Welcomes New Wolves to Athletics Staff

Coach Ken Lockard After two seasons with Lehigh University as linebacker coach, Coach Lockard comes to CU as part of a new staff with big plans for the Wolves. Lockard spent the 2005 season as the offensive line coach and run game coordinator at Santa Barbara City College in California. At the same time, Lockard also served as the team’s director of football operackard Coach Ken Lo tions, coordinating the team’s recruiting efforts and working on fundraising. Prior to Santa Barbara, Lockard spent two seasons at New Mexico Highlands University. Lockard held a range of responsibilities at Highlands, from coaching tight ends and tackles to assisting with recruiting. Lockard holds a B.S. degree in elementary education in ‘03 from Bucknell University. At Bucknell, he earned Patriot League Academic Honor Roll recognition. Lockard is currently pursuing his masters in sports administration from New Mexico Highlands. Arrazzaq to Guide Tennis Program Yaqin Arrazzaq has been named head tennis coach for the Lady Wolves. Arrazzaq has been awarded 3 USTA awards over the course of his 30 year career and has coached at various programs in the City of Coatesville for 10 years. He was the first to establish youth tennis clinics and tournaments in Coatesville and has directed and assisted with various programs at the Coatesville Memorial Community Center. For 16 years he was the Director of USTA-sanctioned tournaments for various divisions from seniors to juniors. Arrazzaq has also coached for the Coatesville Area School District. Michael Blakeney Michael Blakeney has been named the head bowling coach at Cheyney University. Blakeney has served as the head coach for the Temple University Club team (player-coach) as well as Cardinal O’Hara High School Boys and Girls Bowling Teams. Blakeney is also a United States Bowling Congress Silver Level Coach. Blakeney earned his bachelors and masters degrees from Temple University. He is currently pursuing his

doctorate in Educational Leadership from Alvernia College. Blakeney is also the entrepreneur of Bowlers United, a business dedicated to promoting bowling. Junel Jeffries Junel Jeffries has been named head coach of the Cheyney University women’s volleyball team. This is Jeffries’ first collegiate position after coaching club and summer teams throughout Maryland. Jeffries played collegiately at Morgan State and was named All-MEAC (Mid-East Athletic Conference) at conclusion of the 2004 season. She went on to earn her bachelors in business administration in May 2008. From 1999-2003 she led Northern High School in Owings (MD) and was Player of the Year in the Southern Maryland Athletic Conference as well as the First Team All-Metro setter in 2003. “Ever since I can remember, I wanted to coach volleyball. I need to thank Ms. China Jude and President Howard-Vital for giving me the opportunity,” stated Jeffries. Coach Paul Macklin While at Delaware State, Coach Macklin was responsible for the running backs. At Cheyney University, Macklin will be the offensive coordinator and oversee the quarterback and wide receivers. After spending two seasons with Coach Braxton at Delaware State, Paul Macklin chose to move to Wolves territory with the new CU head coach. Prior to his stint with the Hornets, Coach Macklin spent two years as an assistant at Indiana State University. Macklin also taught biology and coached football at two Newport News high schools. In 2000, he was wide receivers and defensive backs coach at Heritage High School, which Coach Paul Mac klin was 14-0 and headed to a state championship. A 1996 graduate with a B.S. in biology from Virginia Union University in Richmond, Va., Macklin was a four-year starter at wide receiver for the Panthers. He was a member of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) All-Academic Team as a freshman. 17

University Students Get SMART By Rebekah Nesmith Soon, Cheyney University students will have new opportunities to enhance their education through the use of technology. Various grants have allowed Howard Hudson, Director of Computer Services and Phil Pagliaro, Director of Telecommunications and Media Services to launch Cheyney University towards the cutting edge of technology. Hudson has begun to oversee a wireless internet access project and a future “Technology Mall.” With wireless laptops, students will have the ability to roam and access the internet in several campus buildings. Presently, Marcus Foster, the Library and Emlen Hall have been made wireless. More buildings on campus are projected to become wireless later this year. Eventually the goal is for the entire campus to become wireless. Dr. Deanna Shelton writes directly onto a SMART white board located at the Carnegie Hall computer lab. Students, like Crystal Hatton (r), will be able to use wireless internet access in several campus areas.

Students now have access to a new computer lab in Marcus Foster. The lab features over 50 computer work stations, high speed internet access, the latest computer technology and software. Below, rooms like the Distance Learning Center in Vaux Hall are capable of video conferencing and interactive technology.

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According to Hudson, usually at other institutions students are charged a “resident fee” to cover the extra costs that go into maintaining and updating student technological needs. The funding from grants will allow Cheyney University to make a huge leap forward to provide students and faculty with many advances that will have a profound effect on campus. Student e-mail boxes will have increased storage space and students will also notice quicker connection to the internet. Moreover, Cheyney University will be the site of a new “Technology Mall” located in the Duckery Social Science Building–featuring new computer labs and multimedia equipment. SMART interactive technology has been incorporated into some of the classrooms on campus. According to Phil Pagliaro, who has managed the design and installation, these classrooms are user friendly and intended to “enhance the teaching and learning experience.” Rooms, like the Carnegie computer lab, are equipped with interactive touch screen monitors and white boards, wireless remote controls, LCD projectors, document cameras and DVD players, and in some cases, video conferencing equipment for distance learning capabilities. Pagliaro explains, “Using a stylus, professors can make notations directly onto the screen over any computer application (such as PowerPoint).” The data can then be saved and e-mailed to the class. Professors can also view all student computer screens in the class from one computer monitor located at the Professor’s podium. “These rooms provide the faculty with the latest in teaching aids,” notes Pagliaro. “In the past, teachers would use slide projectors or overhead projectors with transparencies. Today the computer and multimedia equipment have become prevalent in our everyday lives.” He adds, “Cheyney will now be in the position to offer students and faculty state-of-the-art technology that not only enhances the educational experience, but better prepares students for successful careers.”

By Rebekah Nesmith Every band has a leader, and for the Soulful Sound Band of Cheyney University, that leader is Professor Allen Gardner. Initially, when Professor Gardner came to Cheyney University in the fall of 2005, he was given the challenge of forming a university band program from the ground on up. He started out by borrowing and buying used instruments. His musicians had never played in a band before, nor could they read and play music. Therefore, Gardner had to teach students the fundamentals of music.

Getting Better . . . all the time! Through dedication, devotion and a lot of practice, the Cheyney University Soulful Sound Band continues to grow and improve each year. The band has even acquired better instruments and new uniforms. Today, the Soulful Sound Band is a beacon for enthusiasm and school spirit; playing for university events, parades, national band showcases and battle of the band competitions–they officially look and sound like a band. Gardner goes to great lengths to assist his students within the music program. Carlton Bolding, tuba player, recently went through the process of being admitted to Cheyney University. Standing in front of Burleigh Hall, Gardner was ready to meet with the financial aid staff on Carlton’s behalf to ensure that there would be no problems with his admission.

Carlton explains that he had been waiting all summer to play his tuba, and performing with the band gives him an “adrenaline rush.” According to Jonathan Walker, a trombone player who has been playing for three years and lives out-of-state, the band provides a family atmosphere while he is away from home. Fawaaz Fields, a saxophone player in his third year at CU, describes Professor Gardner as a “compassionate” and “dedicated” man. Gardner also mentors students and he has organized a weekly study hall for band members to reinforce the importance of their academic successes. Over the past three years, Gardner has increasingly gained more support for the band through alumni, outside sources and the university. Gardner is hopeful about making further progress for the Cheyney University Soulful Sound Band. Markeytah Garrett, who plays the alto sax, says of Gardner, “He’s serious about his craft, and I’ve never seen someone sacrifice so much in my life!”

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Campus >>Connections<<

STAYING

Cheyney University to Host “Daddy’s Promise” Over the next several months, Daddy’s Promise: A Lifetime of Love will host traveling town hall meetings and newsmaker panel discussions in Detroit, Washington, DC, Atlanta, Baltimore, Philadelphia, and Dallas to encourage fathers to be actively involved in their daughters’ lives. Sponsored by Proctor and Gamble’s Bounty© brand, the Ford Motor Company, and coordinated in conjunction with 100 Black Men of America, the discussions give a voice to this relationship, and celebrate fathers and father figures. On September 26, Daddy’s Promise: A Lifetime of Love presented a Congressional Black Caucus panel in association with 100 Black Men of America in Washington, DC. Actress Robin Givens, actor Courtney Vance, Judge Greg Mathis and attorney Walter Fields participated. College-focused Town Hall Meetings are scheduled on October 6th at In spite of his busy career as Emmy award winning broadcaster and host of Our World with Black Morehouse ColEnterprise, Ed Gordon and daughter Taylor al- lege in Atlanta ways make time to connect and talk. and on October 27 at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. The meetings will address preparation for parenthood, as well as parent-child and male-female relationships. The panel for the events will include 20

notables such as Matthew Knowles, father of singer and actress Beyonce. Also in Atlanta, Bishop Eddie Long’s New Birth Missionary Baptist Church will host a discussion on December 6th. “A father is the first man many daughters know,” says Dr. Michelle R. Howard-Vital, president of Cheyney University. “He helps to shape his daughter’s view of male-female relationships. Cheyney University is appropriate for this dialogue because of its historic legacy of stimulating dialogue and its enrollment of young people who will benefit from that. Our students are developing better understandings about themselves and relationships.” The Potter’s House in Dallas, founded by Bishop T.D. Jakes, will host a discussion on November 14th. Bishop Jakes is a nationally known author and minister, and was named one of the 25 Most Influential Evangelicals in America by Time magazine. Daddy’s Promise: A Lifetime of Love kicked off the first year of a national outreach campaign in June at 100 Black Men of America’s 22nd Annual Conference. In addition to the church and college tour, planned activities include community programs, high profile celebrity-driven events and the creation and distribution of educational materials. The first year will culminate on Father’s Day, June 2009 with a celebrated father-daughter dance and the publication of a book by Ed Gordon, also titled Daddy’s Promise, illustrating father-daughter bonds. Proctor and Gamble’s Bounty brand, the title sponsor of Daddy’s Promise, will host Bounty Cooking Stations in Detroit, Dallas and Atlanta featuring a healthy cooking workshop following the service with a local celebrity chef. The workshop is designed to foster an environment that provides dads and daughters time to nurture their special bond through cooking and cleaning up together. More information on these and future events for Daddy’s Promise: A Lifetime of Love can be found at: www.daddyspromise.com.

CONNECTED New Members of CU Family Dr. Ivan Banks Joins CU as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Dr. Sulayman Clark Returns to CU as VP for Institutional Advancement

Dr. Brad Buchner and Dr. Virgilette Gaffin co-chaired the national search for CU’s provost and vice president for academic affairs. After applications were reviewed and interviews were conducted, the campus community selected Dr. Ivan Banks.

Ms. Sharon Cannon chaired a search that recommended Dr. Sulayman Clark as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Clark is a Philadelphia native and a 1977 graduate of CU. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Stanford University and a Doctor of Education degree from Harvard University in the area of educational administration.

Dr. Banks comes to CU from the position of Dean and Professor in the College of Education at New Jersey City University. Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Banks served as associate professor and associate dean at Jackson State University where he also advised doctoral candidates. Dr. Banks is also the recipient of a Fulbright Fellowship. As provost and vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Banks will provide leadership for planning, implementing, and managing academic programs of the University. He will work with academic departments to help develop centers of excellence in specific interdisciplinary areas, to ensure accreditation and certification of academic programs, to expand graduate programs, and to review and expand the Urban Site in Philadelphia. “We are very pleased to attract a scholar and educator like Dr. Banks. His expertise in curriculum and instruction and distance education will help CU become more competitive in higher education” said Dr. Michelle Howard-Vital. “His background in teacher education will help reestablish our prominence in teacher education, and he will be a tremendous asset to the university community because of his varied experience in higher education administration. He will also assist our faculty in building upon their excellence in research, resource development and pedagogy. All of these traits will serve to enhance our student success initiatives.” Dr. Banks has been featured in several publications, most recently, The Encyclopedia of the African Diaspora, which focuses on looking beyond the increasing achievement gap. Dr. Banks earned his B.A., in History and Sociology: Ohio Teaching Certification from Case Western Reserve University, his M. ED Economic Education from John Carroll University, and his Ed.D. in Instructional Design and Educational Media from University of Kentucky.

Most recently, he was Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. His previous positions include Vice President for Development and Director of the $250 Million Campaign for Hampton University as well as Vice President for Development at Tuskegee University, Lincoln University (PA) and Morehouse College. The Vice President for Institutional Advancement is responsible for planning, implementing, and managing the comprehensive advancement plan of the university. He will provide leadership for fundraising for capital projects, annual giving and special events; planned and deferred giving; alumni relations; grant writing and corporate and foundation relations. “We warmly welcome Dr. Sulayman Clark back to his alma mater,” said Dr. Michelle Howard-Vital, “He will be a wonderful asset to our leadership and help to advance support for Cheyney University as we strive to become an outstanding liberal arts institution.” Clark’s novel, The Rains: Voices for American Liberty, will be recommended reading for all incoming freshmen at Cheyney University in the fall 2008 semester. The historically-based novel tells a captivating story of antebellum Philadelphia connecting actual events and legendary figures. Several people in the book were part of the Institute for Colored Youth (now Cheyney University). 21

Honor Roll of Donors The following pages recognize gifts and pledges of alumni, faculty, staff, friends, parents, foundations and organizations that supported Cheyney University of Pennsylvania during the period from April 1, 2008 to June 30, 2008. Every gift is important! The entire CU community extends its gratitude for your interest and support of Cheyney University. This list includes donors who made gifts directly to Cheyney University of Pennsylvania. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we apologize in advance for any errors or omissions. To report a discrepancy, or for more information, please contact the Annual Fund Office at 610-399-2154. Any needed corrections will be printed in a future issue of Cheyney Magazine.

$50,000 to $99,999

Friends Fiduciary Corporation James Hughes Foundation

$15,000 to $24,999

Cheyney University Foundation, Inc. City Capital Corporation

$10,000 to $14,000 Christian R. & Mary F. Lindback Foundation

$5,000 to $9,999

Henry and Claudine Vicks Charitable Estate Team Clean

$1,000 to $4,9999

ACME Shirley S. Adams American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Wallace C. Arnold Audrey F. Bronson Dorcas A. Carter GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Gloria J. Harley Charmaine Harris-Swarthe Velma C. Lester Merck Partnership for Giving Carole C. Williams-Green Alice G. Wootson

$500 to $999

Antoinette P. Davis Delaware County Alumni Chapter Benjamin J. Dent Envision Gladys C. Hill Dontina J. Jackson

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$250 to $499

Kathryn L. Anderson James L. Anderson Elva G. Bell Sharon L. Cannon Rodney T. Carter Marthea B. Carter Rowena DeShields Kim R. George Yvonne J. Jones Gaynelle T. Lewis Elaine D. Mansfield Jacqueline P. Porter Wendy L. Realer Saint Nicholas Foundation James C. Solomon Marcellus Strothers Emmanuel Witherspoon

$100 to $249

Marilyn B. Alston Floyd W. Alston Lorena Amos Sylvester J. Ballard James Bell Germaine J. Branch Rosalba Cambria-Jackson Alonzo C. Cavin Ilsa Chapman-Bandy Oliver B. Childs Dorothy C. Childs Joan M. Chisholm Gary O. Clement Juanita B. Davis William D. Dennis Shirley M. Dennis Justine P. Devan Anonymous Donor Anna A. Dorsey Kenneth R. Dorsey Arthur J. Evans Edward Fitzgerald S.A. Foehl

James W. Freeman Myrtis A. Freeman Scott l. Freeman David A. Frisby Joyce S. Gibbs Bonita F. Gibson Barbara A. Gilmore Lawrence Green Elizabeth B. Guy Carole J. Harper Eunice Harris Renee L. Harrison Anna H. Heuer Heinrich Heuer Joseph M. Hilton Marilyn D. Hunt Crystal B. Jackson Jay S. Jackson Marlene P. Jackson Pauline M. Johnson Walter W. Johnson Nellie B. Johnson Marilee K. Jones Michael C. Lee Craig S. Lewis Vincent Liott Carolyn Manning Janet B. Manspeaker Metz & Associatiea, LTD Metz Cartering Ann W. Moseley Kenneth Moseley Carol N. Paige Lyman A. Quarterman Mary J. Quarterman Erika R. Ragland-Lee Robert L. Reese James E. Rhone Alfred L. Richardson Catherine L. Robinson Helen L. Robinson Beulah L. Robinson-Bey Loretta F. Rogers

Lois N. Rowe Robert P. Ruffin Lois L. Savin Corliss T. Scipio-Pearson Walter W. Scruggs Aundra N. Shields Keith N. Singletary Gary K. Stovall Hakim Stovall Omar K. Stovall Jamal Stovall Joanne B. Terry-Johnson Marie J. Thompson Raymond F. Truehart Loretta A. Wardlaw-Brown Delores S. Ware Charlotte A. Washington Sylvia F. Washington Travis M. Waters Carl M. Williams Diane Wilson Harold T. Woods Theodore R. Young Thomas Young Mary W. Young

Up to $99

Erick K. Acolatse Adedoyin Adeyiga Anthony P. Adusei Rosemary N. Adusei Thomas W. Allen Eric R. Almonte Diane P. Anderson Delores M. Andy Charles W. Andy Barbara A. Antrom Adrean Bailey Robert C. Bailey Etta G. Baldwin Arlethal L. Banks Eleanor A. Barnes Delois M. Barnes Paula W. Blair James V. Brown Cassandra Brown Richard H. Brown Evelyn N. Brown Bradley J. Buchner Elisabeth A. Burton Fayetta C. Butler Carmen C. Butler Sue M. Byham Shileen K. Bynum Margaret H. Cadden Carole P. Chambers (Continued on page 24)

Local Corporations Support CU Metz Enterprises

John Metz visits Cheyney University each year to present a check to the Cheyney University president as part of the profit-sharing agreement the university has with Metz Enterprises. This year, John Metz and Metz Enterprises also invested in, and enhanced, the student dining experience in Ada Georges by reengineering the dining hall and the method of serving and displaying food. The single line cafeteria service has been transformed into several food stations with more healthy choices of salad, pasta, and vegetarian meals. President Howard-Vital states, “The newly renovated space has greatly improved the dining experience for students. I interviewed about 200 students personally, and they really like the food stations, the new fresh look, and they say the food is good. In fact, I prefer to eat there when I am on campus.” Metz is frequently named among the top 25 contract management companies in the United States.

Team Clean Team Clean is a provider of janitorial services in the Philadelphia region and furnishes these services to the residence halls and buildings at Cheyney University. Team Clean, however, is also a contributor to the Cheyney University Scholarship Program. In less than a semester on the job, Team Clean has given a check of $5,ooo to Cheyney University to help provide scholarship money for a deserving Cheyney University student.

T. G. I. Fridays Athletic Director China Jude has been working collaboratively with T.G.I. Fridays in Chadds Ford to provide refreshments for the hospitality box at the football games and to also provide food for the “C” Club. T.G.I. Fridays is also sponsoring the Coach Braxton Radio Show on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. with CU Wolves’ Sports Information Director, Lenn Margolis, at the T.G,I. Fridays at 1201 Wilmington Pike (Route 202). The Cheyney University family thanks T.G.I. Fridays for this support of our athletic program. 23

(Continued from page 22) Joan C. Charles Selmon Choice Maxine L. Colston Milt Colston Mary G. Corbett John C. Corbin Jessica Cotton Fannie M. Dawson Deborah DeLaCruz Susan J. Dennis Patricia B. Edwards Nina Edwards-Baker Valerie Epps Harding Faulk Doris C. Fletcher Jeanette Foster Faith J. Green Andrew Haman Carole L. Hodges Gregory V. Hodges Valerie R. Howard Donna J. Howard Walter E. Hurst Ann E. Hurst Vincent S. Ianni Barbara A. Jackson

Edward C. Jefferson Shon P. Jeffery Leon C. Johnson Ruby F. Johnson Cynthia D. Johnson Denyse V. Jones Emmett A. Jones Rosalind Jones-Johnson Arlene R. Kane Terri A. Kane-Richardson Tara Kent John L. Klenk Earl O. Lambright Steven Lane Marlen Livezey Vincent R. Menkel Audrey G. Miller Kenneth C. Miller Madeline l. Murphy Samuel O. Onyekere Elaine Opher Sylvester Pace Florence N. Parnell Morris C. Peterkin Meridel J. Peterson Booker T. Poole Kathleen Prillerman

Christine H. Redd Marcia Robinson Harriette C. Robinson Lillian Ross Antoinette N. Russell Gayle P. Satchell Anna Scruggs Brenda P. Shields Larry C. Skinner Carmen Skinner Wayman W. Smith Anthony Sorrell Barbara R. Sorrell Shirley M. Stewart Ronald L. Swann Denise A. Swann Andrea D. Taylor James O. Taylor Kathy A. Taylor-Branch Antoinette Turner Deborah N. Turner Roderick Turner Michael D. and Marva Tyler Lottie J. Washington Cedric WhitField Daniel Whyte

Stanley N. Williams Whitney T. Yancey James A. Zaffarano

Does your employer match your contribution? If your or your spouse’s company has a matching gift program, your gifts to CU can be easily increased! For more information, please visit matchinggifts.com, contact your human resources department, or contact Ms. Donna Howard, 610-399-2154 or by email [email protected].

CU Commencement 2008 (continued from page 11)

Joyner said he wanted to be the first to give each graduate their first set of added zeros and handed each graduate a five dollar bill as they crossed the stage to receive their degrees. He also encouraged the Class of 2008 to make their marks in the world with the knowledge and wisdom they have gained here, to lead by example, and to give back to Cheyney University. “Don’t put money first,” he said. “Help others first, and you will be rewarded.” Joyner was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Public Service degree during the ceremony. Another special highlight of the day was Valedictorian, Brittany Fox shares insights about Cheyney with graduates and guests.

24

the presentation of a special degree by State Senator Anthony Williams to his mother, a former CU student. Valedictorian and class president Brittany Fox provided reflections on her experience at Cheyney University and urged students to use their talents to make the changes they wanted to see in the world. She also reminded future graduates to make the most of these years at CU. Cheyney University awarded more than 200 undergraduate and approximately 60 graduate degrees to the Class of 2008. In all, approximately 25 percent of the Cheyney University Class of 2008 graduated with honors. Graduates were surprised with a cash gift from Tom Joyner with their degrees.



President’s Cabinet

ensuring

future

the

Michelle R. Howard-Vital, Ph.D., President Ivan Banks, Ed.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Sulayman Clark, Ed.D., Vice President for Institutional Advancement Irene Moszer, Ph.D., Interim Vice President for Finance and Administration Valerie Epps, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Student Life Eric Almonte, J.D., Executive Associate to the President Barbara A. Simmons, J.D., Assistant to the President for Internal Relations and Social Equity Bernadette Carter, Ed.D., Dean of Arts and Sciences Cathine Garner-Gilchrist, Ph.D., Dean of the School of Education, Graduate Education and Continuing Education Tara Kent, Ph.D., Dean of the Keystone Honors Academy Lut Nero, Ph.D., Dean of the Leslie Pinckney Hill Library China Jude, M.S.S., Athletic Director Sharon Cannon, M.Ed., Executive Director of Economic and Workforce Development Center

Council of Trustees

University Foundation

Robert W. Bogle, Chairman Dongkyu Bak Lynette Brown-Sow Edward S. J. Tomezco, Ph.D. Gary N. Horton Senator Vincent J. Hughes Chioma Ugwuegbulem Robert Traynham, II Samuel Patterson Reverend Dr. Joseph D. Patterson, Sr. Martin Thane PASSHE Chancellor John C. Cavanaugh, Ex Officio

Richard Sims, Chairman James E. Andrews, Vice Chair Keya Perry, Treasurer Elsie S. Erwin, Secretary David B. Alston Irving D. Bailey Heath-Bowden Rodney T. Carter, Esq. Theodore P. Erwin Willie F. Johnson Wilbur L. Kirkland Carmen Martinez-Skinner Samuel Patterson Dr. Janice Ruth Robert L. Turner, Jr. Esq. Albert E. Wilkins President Michelle R. Howard-Vital, Ph.D., Ex Officio

Board of Governors Kenneth M. Jarin, Chairman Aaron A. Walton, Vice Chair C.R. “Chuck” Pennoni, Vice Chair Representative Matthew E. Baker Paul S. Dlugolecki Daniel P. Elby Ryan Gebely Representative Michael K. Hanna Senator Vincent J. Hughes

1837 University Circle P. O. Box 200 Cheyney, PA 19319-0200



Marie Conley Lammando Kim E. Lyttle Joshua A. O’Brien Christine J. Toretti Olson Guido M. Pichini Governor Edward G. Rendell Senator James J. Rhoades Gerald L. Zahorchak