The Oakwood University Department of Nursing has truly been blessed! Out of all the nursing schools across the nation that applied for the grant ‘Equipment to Enhance Training for Health Professionals: Nursing Workforce Diversity,’ the Department of Health and Human Services Resources and Service Administration chose Oakwood’s Nursing Department. They have been awarded a grant of $275,150!
Drs. Carol Allen and Arlene Johnson in the Department of Nursing applied for the grant in hopes of enhancing nurses’ education at Oakwood by purchasing clinical simulation equipment. The funds will now be used to purchase four new patient simulators, learning modules, intravenous administration simulators, and computer evaluation equipment. The Department of Nursing and the Office of Sponsored Programs will be notified regarding availability of funds by the Health Resources and Service Administration Grants Management office before the end of this semester. Congratulations Nursing Department!
~Ashley Batiste, student writer for the Office of Public Relations
Patricia Robinson Byrd (Class of 1977) has been appointed to the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s (SCAQMD) Hearing Board for the term of July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2013. She is the first African-American female to serve on the Hearing Board. SCAQMD is the air pollution control agency for all of Orange County and the urban portions of Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties (California), the smoggiest region of the U.S.
The Hearing Board is a quasi-judicial panel authorized to provide relief from AQMD regulations under certain circumstances. The Hearing Board is authorized to hear: petitions by companies for variances; petitions for abatement orders; appeals by companies from the granting of permits, permit conditions, permit denials and suspensions; denials of emission reduction credits; denials of pollution control plans; and appeals by third parties.
Ms. Byrd received her undergraduate degree in Biology from Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama and a Master of Public Health degree with an emphasis in Environmental Health from Loma Linda University, and has more than 20 years of experience in the field of Environmental Health. In 2009, Ms. Byrd was the recipient of Assembly Member Bill Emerson’s Woman of Distinction award. She and her family have lived in the City of Riverside for more than 24 years.
For more information about the South Coast Air Quality Management District and a link to the Hearing Board, go to www.aqmd.gov.
The science departments at Oakwood University are hosting a Weekend Academy Tutorial Program for the community through funding provided by the National Science Foundation. The Weekend Academy Tutorial Program will begin on Sunday, September 26, from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. in the Oakwood University Cooper Complex, Building 1, Room 233 (Chemistry Department/Upper Level). There will be a total of 11 sessions, with 20 slots available for 8th and 9th grade students (ages 13 and 14). The program is free of charge to the public.
The goal of the program is to prepare students to take standardized exams and to be successful in high school through a series of workshops and seminars. The program will tutor in Reading, Mathematics, Study Skills, PSAT/SAT/ACT preparation. Other seminars will include Internet Skills/Safety, Financial Management for Teens, and Microsoft Training.
For registration, please contact Mrs. Erika Hairston by calling 256-726-8366, or by email ehairston@oakwood.edu.
Ronald Brisé of North Miami, an Oakwood alumnus (Class of ‘99) and Florida State Representative, District 108, has been appointed as one of the Commissioners on the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), and the state’s first PSC member of Haitian-American descent. As a Public Service Commissioner, Brisé along with other commissioners will be responsible for the oversight of basic services such as electricity, gas, telecommunications and water and the companies that provide these services to assure that they remain operable and affordable for consumers.
Brisé issued the following statement: “I am humbled and grateful for this unique opportunity to serve the great people of Florida in this new capacity. I thank Governor Crist and the PSC Nominating Council for doing their due diligence in conducting a fair and thorough review. I applied for this position because I think my combined experience within the telecom industry and the Florida Legislature will allow me to work in a fair manner to the benefit of the public good.”
After graduating from Oakwood College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology Education in 1999, Brisé and taught at Miami Union Academy for five years. He then went on to earn two MBA degrees in Marketing and Management from American Intercontinental University. Brisé is a faithful member and an elder of the Tabernacle SDA Church, and is a member of several professional and civic organizations. He is married to Jo An Solomon Brisé, a registered nurse, and they are proud parents of their son Ronald Brisé II.
Brisé was elected to represent District 108 in the Florida House of Representatives in 2006 at the age of 32 and subsequently re-elected without opposition. He served as Democratic Whip during his first term, 2006-2008, and served as Vice Chair of the Florida Conference of Black State Legislators. Brisé’s knowledge of utilities stems from his work at an international telecommunications carrier based in Miami. He also served as the ranking Democratic Member on the Utilities & Telecommunications Committee.
Oakwood University hosted the annual North Alabama United Negro College Fund (UNCF) Kick-off and Appreciation Reception on Tuesday, September 7, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the BB&T bank, located at 305 Church Street, in Huntsville. BB&T served as the UNCF Kick-off’s presenting sponsor. The evening was filled with food, prizes, energizing remarks, and the tranquil Chinese violin tunes of musician Minhao Lu, who could have taken the edge off any busy sponsor’s work day.
As North Alabama’s only UNCF institution, Oakwood partners with the local UNCF Planning Committee each year to organize this occasion, which pre-empts the annual golf tournament and spring gala. It is an opportunity to thank sponsors and friends, share the impact the UNCF has had on students, graduates, and the community, and to meet and greet potential UNCF supporters from our community.
The North Alabama UNCF campaign motto is “Building Bridges to Opportunity,” and there are several events planned around the key focus of building community and business relationships, inspiring diversity, encouraging growth and economic development, and a fostering a spirit of philanthropy.
The UNCF Golf Classic, sponsored by Verizon Wireless, is an early-bird special to sponsors who pledge or donate before the October 4 event at The Ledges of Huntsville. For major sponsors of $5,000 and more, there will also be a chance to win a trip-for-two to China during a drawing at the golf tournament.
Then on November 14, the Second Annual UNCF First Ladies Tea will be held at The Ledges of Huntsville, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Last year’s tea brought pastors’ wives together from across Madison County and the general North Alabama region in an interdenominational fellowshipping that could only be topped by this year’s event. It’s a chance for the first ladies to relax and share their stories of ministry and faith-building over a cup of tea and crumpets and a host of other special treats to delight the palate.
And as usual, the culminating event of the campaign, the Annual UNCF Gala, is set for April 21, 2011. The event raises funds for scholarship and internship programs for African-American students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to seek a higher education. At a time when a college degree is what a high school diploma was to previous generations, a college education has fast become a minimum entry-level requirement for almost every well-paying career.
The UNCF mission is “to enhance the quality of education by providing financial assistance to deserving students, raising operating funds for member colleges and universities, and increasing access to technology for students and faculty at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUS).” Since its inception in 1944, UNCF has grown to become the nation's oldest and most successful minority higher education assistance organization, although UNCF provides scholarships to any deserving student who attends an HBCU, regardless of ethnicity.
As one of 39 UNCF member institutions, Oakwood University helps promising students from low- and moderate-income families with funds for college tuition, books, and room and board. Collectively, these private member institutions enable more than 65,000 students each year to attend college and get the education they want and deserve.
For more information, please contact the Office of Advancement and Development by calling 256. 726-7584, emailing uncf@oakwood.edu., or visiting www.oakwood.edu/uncf/ online.
Over 400 undergraduate college students attended this free event to explore their graduate school options and to gather valuable firsthand information from admissions representatives who were available to answer questions.
Nineteen Alabama colleges and universities collaborated to sponsor this weeklong statewide event which draws about 100 graduate school representatives from across the country.
For more information about the Graduate & Professional School Expo,
visit the Alabama Connection website at http://www.alabamaconnection.org
Slated to become first, only HBCU to achieve such recognition, capability
HUNTSVILLE, AL – Oakwood University had successfully completed the actions necessary to be registered as an ISO 9001 certified organization, making it the first and only historically black college or university (HBCU) to achieve such recognition.
According to OU Provost, Dr. R. Timothy McDonald, the benefits of ISO 9001 certification to Oakwood University and its customers are:
Its scope of certification is “Oakwood University provides contract and grant support resources, processes, and business management to federal, state, foundation and commercial customers,” he continued.
The completed steps included:
This effort was made possible with support from SAIC, under its Mentor-Protégé program, and program consultant Dr. Jay Billings.
“Oakwood University has plans to export its Quality Management System to its sister colleges and to other institutions,” McDonald concluded.
Pictured: (left to right) David Knight, VP of Student Services; Dr. Tim McDonald, Provost; Sabrina Cotton, VP of Finance; Valerie Carper, SAIC Representative; Gregory Hunt, Lead Auditor from Bureau Veritas; Marcia Burnette, Coordinator of Mentor-Protégé Program (of which the ISO certification is an objective); Dr. Leslie Pollard, President; Dr. Jay Billings, ISO Consultant for OU; Lucy Cort, Office of Sponsored Programs Audit Representative; Dr. Everett Roper, Chair of Internal Audit Committee; Dr. Howard Weems, Senior Chaplain; and Steve McWilliams, Information Technology Audit Representative. (Not pictured: Sylvia Germany, Human Resources Dept. Audit Representative.)
On October 28, 2010, NASA awarded the Enterprise Applications Service Technologies (EAST) contract to SAIC. As a subcontractor, Oakwood had to submit a proposal to NASA through SAIC. With much prayer, diligence and hard work, Oakwood’s proposal was accepted! Under the contract, SAIC will be responsible for providing all services necessary to operate and maintain NASA's set of integrated enterprise application systems supporting all ten NASA field centers. Oakwood will benefit by the placement of student interns, and will have the opportunity to hire employees and consultants through the contract.
There will be a two-year base period, followed by one two-year option and one one-year option that may be exercised at NASA's discretion. It is a firm-fixed price contract, with an indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) feature. The base award of this contract is $85.6 million. If all options are exercised, the maximum potential value of the contract, including the maximum ID/IQ value, is $321.2 million! Under the base award, Oakwood will see a profit of more than $5 million dollars! This contract will go into effect February 1, 2011.
Congratulations Oakwood University!
Marcia A. Burnette Assistant VP for Advancement & Development/ Director of Sponsored Programs
Ten Groups – including Oakwood Graduates “Committed” -- from Across the Country will Compete for Grand Prize: Sony Music Recording Contract and $100,000
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. – October 21, 2010 – Multi-platinum recording artist Nick Lachey is set to return as host of NBC's upcoming a cappella singing competition series, "The Sing-Off," a five-night holiday event premiering Monday, December 6 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET). The one-of-a-kind battle of voices will continue on December 8, 13 and 15, culminating in a live finale on December 20 (8:00-10:00 p.m. ET each night).
Among the 10 a capella groups competing for the $100,000 prize and a Sony Music recording contract is Committed from Huntsville, Alabama, graduates of Oakwood University. Committed is dedicated to creating unique harmonies with powerful lead vocals and a booming bass line.
For additional details on each group including photos, please log on to www.nbcumv.com/sing-off.
Produced by Tenth Planet Productions, Outlaw Productions and Sony Pictures Television, “The Sing-Off" will feature a cappella groups performing popular songs from various genres, arranged and sung like you've never heard before. There is no lip-synching, back-up band or safety net. Ultimately, America will decide the winning group.
Submitted by Roberto Burton | OU Music Department & In One Accord Management
c/o Public Relations Office
Oakwood University
6-Year-Old Giving to Valley Kidz By: Chase Gallimore of WAAY31-TV Huntsville, AL - Jennae Leslie is only 6 years old. However, her age has never stopped her from getting things done. “She's always been very inquisitive. She has a go get it attitude. She's always wanted to do things on her own,” says Jennae’s mother, Jessica Fortune. Now, she is putting that “go get it” attitude to work by helping victims of April’s Fury. “When the tornadoes hit, she came to me and she said, Mommy, I want to do something for the kids, I have to do something for the kids,” says Fortune. That something turned into a volunteer organization called Kidz to Kidz. Jennae is collecting clothes, toys, and supplies to five to tornado victims. “I have some shoes, and some baby shoes, and I have some baby clothes,” says Jennae. Her mom adds, “She said, well I want it to only be kids. They give stuff to me and we turn around and give that stuff to other kids. and she said, she wanted to be in charge of it.” So far, Jennae has filled a room in her house with things she has collected from friends and family. But, for this “go get it” six year old, it isn’t enough. “We reached out to Oakwood University, and they got behind her idea,” says Fortune. “They were very excited that she was so young and has so much energy.” For the complete article, go to: http://www.waaytv.com/news/local/story/6-Year-Old-Giving-to-Valley-Kidz/e8nymtORGUaTQB1oZ2id-A.cspx
Soprano BRANDIE SUTTON of New York, NY has garnered third place in The American Prize in Vocal Performance—Friedrich and Virginia Schorr Memorial Awards competition, 2011, in the female professional art song division. Ms. Sutton was selected from scores of applications reviewed this spring from twenty-eight U.S. states.
The American Prize is a series of new, non-profit, national competitions unique in scope and structure, designed to recognize and reward the very best performing artists and ensembles in the United States. The American Prize was founded in 2009 and is awarded annually in many areas of the performing arts. Complete information on the website: www.theamericanprize.org Finalists for The American Prize receive professional adjudication and regional, national and international recognition for their artistry, based on their submitted recordings. The American Prize in Vocal Performance—Friedrich and Virginia Schorr Memorial Awards honors the memory of Friedrich Schorr (1888-1943), the greatest Wagnerian baritone of his age, who dominated the international opera stage between the world wars, and his wife, Virginia (1904-1990), who taught studio voice at the Manhattan School of Music and the Hartt School of Music for nearly fifty years. The artist supplied this biographical sketch: Brandie Sutton, completed her undergraduate studies at Oakwood University, and immediately following, her Master’s in Music from The Catholic University of America. This year, she made her debut at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and a second appearance with the National Symphony Orchestra. Most recently she was among 12 finalists chosen from almost 300 vocalists and instrumentalists from around the world in a most prestigious competition, Young Concert Artists International Auditions. THE AMERICAN PRIZE—History & Judges The American Prize grew from the belief that a great deal of excellent music being made in this country goes unrecognized and unheralded, not only in our major cities, but all across the country: in schools and churches, in colleges and universities, and by community and professional musicians. With the performing arts in America marginalized like never before, The American Prize seeks to fill the gap that leaves excellent artists and ensembles struggling for visibility and viability. The American Prize recognizes and rewards the best America produces, without bias against small city versus large, or unknown artist versus well-known. David Katz is the chief judge of The American Prize. Professional conductor, award-winning composer, playwright, actor and arts advocate, Katz was the founder and for twelve years chief judge of the Friedrich Schorr Memorial Performance Prize in Voice international competition. He is author of MUSE of FIRE, the acclaimed one-man play about the art of conducting. Joining Katz is a panel of judges as varied in background and experience as we hope finalists and winners of The American Prize will be. Made up of distinguished musicians representing virtually every region of the country, the group includes professional vocalists, conductors, composers and pianists, tenured professors and orchestra and choral musicians. “Many artists may never win a Grammy award, or a Pulitzer, or a Tony, or perhaps ever even be nominated,” Katz said, “but that does not mean that they are not worthy of recognition and reward. Quality in the arts is not limited to just those prize winners, to the coasts, to the familiar names, or only to graduates of the most famous schools. It is on view all over the United States, if you take the time to look for it. The American Prize exists to encourage and herald that excellence. ” By shining a light on nationally recognized achievement, finalists of The American Prize receive world-class bragging rights to use in promotion right at home. “If The American Prize helps build careers, or contributes to local pride, or assists with increasing the audience for an artist or ensemble, builds the donor base, or stimulates opportunities or recruitment for participating artists and ensembles, then we have fulfilled our mission,” Katz said. In addition to the Schorr voice awards, in 2011 The American Prize sponsors competitions for conductors, ensembles, pianists and composers. The American Prize is administered by Hat City Music Theater, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit performing arts organization based in Danbury, Connecticut. end
Adventist Review – 05/03/11 Oakwood University shuts down, cancels final exams. An Adventist Review news roundup, updated Sunday, May 1, 2011 Members and employees of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the southern United States were not spared suffering during a day and night of violent tornadoes that swept through six states April 27. The North American Division reported late in the evening on April 30 that two church members in northeastern Alabama and one in Apison, Tennessee are confirmed as fatalities; overall, at least 349 people have been reported as killed in the region, 250 of these in Alabama alone, according to the latest media reports. "Two members of the Ownbey Chapel Seventh-day Adventist Church, which is located in Ider, Alabama, [approximately 33 miles southeast of Chattanooga] and one member of the Apison Seventh-day Adventist Church in southeastern Tennessee were killed during Wednesday’s tornadic outbreak," a North American Division statement indicated. Also, one Seventh-day Adventist Church member in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, was hospitalized following the tornado's devastation in that city. At least six members of the South Central Conference lost their homes in Tuscaloosa; several more members' homes have been reported damaged there. The tornado which swept from Tuscaloosa to Birmingham had an 80-mile track, winds as high as 165 miles-per-hour and was designated an EF-4, the second-highest rating, a report at the Huntsville Times Website indicated. To read the complete article, go to http://www.adventistreview.org/article.php?id=4363
Oakwood University hosted a Speak Up conversation at the C.T. Richards Chapel of the Moseley Complex. This was a special program designed to engage the Madison County community and create a platform for all interested citizens to voice their concerns and suggestions regarding public education. Speak Up is a community engagement initiative of The Schools Foundation, a 501c3 organization, in support of public education in Madison County.
Content from such community meetings, hosted by local higher education institutions will be used to develop a jointly owned strategic plan for each school district to provide a guide our local K-12 schools. This shared vision will identify opportunities for future action and key resources for each school system. The expectation is that this process will engage more than 3,000 people across the community in community-centered conversations about education and culminate with a collaborative strategic plan for schools in each system.
This is a significant initiative because it supports the top three priorities that our communities have identified as areas that need focused attention of lawmakers and community members. Those three areas are:
The current economic situation has created urgent needs in our schools. Tough financial times for schools are predicted to continue for the next five years. Oakwood University was the first higher-education institution in the Madison County area to host one of these conversations, but any member of the higher-ed community interested in education and community engagement is invited to attend or host these Speak Up conversations which will run through the entire month of March. For more information, go to http://speakupalabama.org.
ScienceDaily (June 27, 2011) — Health disparities between black Americans and the rest of the nation have been well-documented in medical journals. But one study shows that blacks who identify as members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church actually report a better quality of life than the average American. Researchers point to certain lifestyle behaviors as a possible explanation for the difference. The research was conducted at Loma Linda University as part of the Adventist Religion and Health Study (ARHS), a study of nearly 11,000 Adventists, including more than 3,400 black Adventists….
Read the complete ScienceDaily article at http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/06/110627183946.htm
Pine Forge, PA – The Pine Forge Academy (PFA) Board of Trustees has voted former Math Department Chair, Delmas F. Campbell, M.Ed., as the new Principal of the historic boarding school.
Campbell returns to PFA from Bermuda Institute (BI) in Southampton, Bermuda where he has been a Department Chair and Math instructor since 2008. Prior to his employment at BI, Campbell spent 11 years at PFA in the Math Department as an instructor and Chair.
He has Professional Certification in Secondary Education and is a four year recipient of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers. Campbell’s duties were not limited to the class room at PFA ? he also served as Chairman of the National Honor Society, Sponsor for the Student Government Association and developed the syllabus for the Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics course.
Campbell is clear on his vision for PFA and its students, “The education of students must, of necessity, involve the partnership of the teacher, the student, and the parents. Commitment on the part of these three entities is critical to the successful completion of the final product: a well rounded student, whose academic, social and spiritual development prepares them for the God?ordained role for which they were created. My prayer and goal is to build upon the lasting foundation of Pine Forge Academy and to propel this prestigious institution to an even higher level of distinction.”
Charles Cheatham, President of the Allegheny East Conference Corporation of Seventh?day Adventists and Chairman of the PFA Board of Trustees said of Campbell’s appointment, “The Board lends its full support to Principal Campbell. We are confident that under his leadership, Pine Forge Academy’s legacy of excellence will flourish.”
Marcia Hamilton, Executive Vice President of the PFA Parent Teacher Association said, “Delmas
Campbell lives and breathes ‘academic excellence', and he believes all his students have the potential for excellence. I had the privilege of working with him as a parent while my son was at Pine Forge Academy. He propelled the chapter of the NHS at PFA to a new level, increasing the number of male inductees significantly, encouraged public speaking and the academic challenge through the oratorical competition. I am thrilled that he will be the Principal leading PFA to the next level.”
News of Campbell’s appointment brought excitement on Facebook from his former students. C. Spencer Anderson (class of 2000) wrote, ‘He’s always been a forward thinker. I like it, and he’s passionate.’ Kristen Danielle (class of 2005) wrote, ‘I love this IDEA.’ Kelan Fielder (class of 2003) wrote, ‘Wow!!! He’s back!!!’
Shawn Fordham, President of the PFA Alumni Association and Board Member said, “Professor Campbell is the right person for the task of leading our Academy in preparing our students to be Christian scholars. He’ll have the full support of the Alumni Association.”
Campbell’s transition from Bermuda Institute to Pine Forge Academy will be immediate. Student registration begins on Sunday, August 15. Student orientation begins Monday, August 16 followed by the first day of classes on Wednesday, August 18, 2010.
Principal Campbell replaces Cynthia Poole?Gibson (PFI ’63) who accepted the offer to serve as Associate Superintendent of Schools for the Allegheny East Conference of Seventh?day Adventists.
Pine Forge Academy is a co?educational Seventh?day Adventist school that serves grades 9 through 12. The campus is located in Berks County, Pennsylvania, on 575 acres of rolling hills and dales, intercepted by the winding, picturesque Manatawny Creek. Pine Forge Academy is caretaker of historically significant land, which goes back to Colonial America in the early 1700s, when William Penn deeded it as a gift to abolitionist Thomas Rutter.
“NATIONAL TELEVISION BROADCAST OF
UNCF AN EVENING OF STARS® TRIBUTE TO CHAKA KHAN PRESENTED BY TARGET”
Viewers Can Text To Donate To Help Seniors Graduate
Huntsville, Al. -- UNCF–the United Negro College Fund– will broadcast UNCF An Evening of Stars® Tribute to Chaka Khan presented by Target nationally on more than 40 stations in major markets on Saturday, January 29 and on Sunday, January 30 on BET Networks at 10 p.m. ET and WGN America at 3:00 a.m. CT. For a complete list of stations and additional information, visit www.AnEveningofStars.org.
Grammy-winning soulstress Chaka Khan will be serenaded from the UNCF An Evening of Stars® stage by an all-star lineup of entertainers – including a Stevie Wonder, Melanie Fiona, Faith Evans, Herbie Hancock and others – and will be presented with the UNCF Award of Excellence. The award is given to an artist whose career and support of UNCF and minority education has been exemplary.
“This year’s UNCF An Evening of Stars® is exciting and filled with high-energy performances,” says Dr. Michael Lomax. president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), “We are grateful for the support of all of our celebrities, sponsors and supporters, who understand the importance of education and are helping UNCF ensure that every child gets a good education from pre-school through college.” Lomax is scheduled to speak for the 33rd Annual UNCF Building Bridges to Opportunity Gala at the Von Braun Center on April 21, 2011 (www.oakwood.edu/uncf). The fundraising gala is sponsored by Landers-McClarty Family of Dealerships as part of the UNCF North Alabama Joint Campaign.
The stars on the UNCF An Evening of Stars® stage contributed not only their renditions of Khan’s greatest hits, but special appeals to help UNCF students whose graduation is threatened by the lingering recession. Layoffs, pay cuts, and the disappearance of many private student loan programs have left students owing money for tuition, text books, and dormitory rooms—bills that must be paid before they can graduate.
From the stage and in videotaped appeals, celebrities ask the show audience and television viewers to text “UNCF” to 50555 on their cell phones to donate $10 to help students walk the last mile of their education. To learn more, visit www.uncf.org and click on the Campaign for Emergency Student Aid icon.
UNCF An Evening of Stars® is one of several UNCF events that benefits students at Huntsville’s Oakwood University, one of the 39 historically black colleges and universities that comprise the UNCF. Oakwood is the only member institution in Northern Alabama.
Target serves as the Presenting Sponsor of UNCF An Evening of Stars®. National corporate sponsors include AT&T and McDonald's. Longtime UNCF partner Wells Fargo is an official sponsor along with BET Networks and WGN America. Other sponsors include national media partner Clear Channel, major sponsor U.S Army and American Airlines is the official airline of UNCF An Evening of Stars®.
About UNCF An Evening of Stars®
UNCF An Evening of Stars®, formerly the Lou Rawls Parade of Stars®, first aired in 1979, and since that time has become one of the longest running and most successful televised events in U.S. history. Over its 32-year history, UNCF An Evening of Stars® has raised more than $200 million that has helped hundreds of thousands of students attend college and graduate. In recent years, UNCF An Evening Of Stars® has featured a Who's Who of remarkable talent, including Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Chaka Khan, Ne-Yo, Nancy Wilson, Beyoncé, Anita Baker, Jill Scott, Whoopi Goldberg, Fantasia, Joss Stone, Jennifer Hudson, Michael Bolton, Natalie Cole, Herbie Hancock, Al Jarreau, Hall and Oates, Ziggy Marley, Maroon 5, and scores of others. UNCF An Evening of Stars® received NAACP Image Awards for its 2006 tribute to Stevie Wonder and its 2008 tribute to Smokey Robinson. Learn more about UNCF An Evening Of Stars® at www.uncf.org.
About UNCF
UNCF—the United Negro College Fund—is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at over 900 colleges and universities across the country. UNCF supports education through scholarships and other programs, by supporting its 39 member colleges and universities, and by advocating for the importance of minority education. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 21 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. The UNCF logo features the torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste."® Learn more at www.UNCF.org.
Congratulations to Dr. Everett Roper (Business & Information Systems Department) who’s paper entitled, “MOVING TOWARDS IMPROVED ACQUISITION OUTCOMES: The interrelationships between organization culture, management leadership style, employee commitment and organizational outcomes” has been selected as runner-up in the 2010 Defense Acquisition University AA Research Paper Competition. Dr. Roper’s research paper will appear in the April edition of the Defense Acquisition Research Journal which will be distributed to the US Department of Defense community. Dr. Roper has been invited to present his research at the DAU Acquisition Community Symposium in April where he will also receive a cash award.
William James Cleveland, Jr. was born in Lexington, Kentucky on June 12, 1945, to the late W.J. and Rita D. (Thompson) Cleveland. The family moved to Seattle and from there returned to the South where Bill spent his formative years. He attended Oakwood Academy and earned his high school diploma in 1964. Bill later attended Oakwood College and graduated in August, 1969, with a B.S. in Theology.
Bill was the product of strong ministerial leadership. Following graduation from Oakwood, he followed the pattern of service to the Seventh-day Adventist Church that was set before him by his father, Elder W.J. Cleveland, and his uncles E.E. and Harold J. Cleveland. Bill pastored churches in the Southwest Region and Allegheny East Conferences.
While subsequently working at the Review and Herald Publishing Association, Bill's editing and writing skills were developed, preparing him for future employment in the field of publication editing. He was invited to Oakwood University by then president Dr. Delbert Baker, who was Bill's friend and mentor. The years he spent at his alma mater were his most prolific, and he took great pride in the various publications produced through his department. He also assisted in photography while at Oakwood, and captured many of Oakwood's historic events for posterity. He held the position of Publications Editor until his unexpected death on December 22, 2011.
Bill held his family's Scrabble championship, along with any other board game that required word construction or thoughtful strategic maneuvering. He maintained a passionate love of classical music and avidly collected hundreds of rich and diverse soundtracks. Bill was somewhat of a loner who went quietly about his life and work, but he always had a special place in his heart for young minds, and authored several articles in the Junior Guide and Insight periodicals. When the family was able to get together, he always brought money and gifts to pass around to his nephews and nieces, along with his interest in their lives and words of guidance where needed.
Bill is survived by his siblings: two sisters Celia Marie Cleveland-Waddell and Cynthia Elaine Slack, and one brother Paul Richard Cleveland. He was loved greatly by six nieces and nephews: Marcus Waddell, Paul Richard Cleveland II, Sherrie Marie Waddell, Stephanie Denise Allen, William Earl Cleveland, and Ryan Alexander Slack.
We trust God in all things, and, without question, commit the soul of our brother, uncle, friend and co-worker to God's keeping. Until then, let us live our lives, each day better than the day before, in anticipation of that wonderful moment when death will be no more and we shall see Bill, transformed and whole again. We look forward to that blessed day when all tears will be wiped from our eyes, and we will gather together around the throne of God in the earth made new where our joy and happiness will have no end.
The first runner-up was Erin Tolbert, a sophomore Psychology major. This year, a new category was added to the program. Miss Nyola Joseph was completely surprised as she was crowned as the first time ever UNCF Miss Congeniality of Oakwood University.
Ms. Barbara Stovall, director of Alumni Relations and coordinator of the event, expressed her congratulations to Janelle and gratitude to both of the contestants for their commitment to the hard work of fundraising. She acknowledged all of the family and friends who supported both young ladies along the way, with a special thanks the UNCF Area Development Director, Walvid King, and his wife for attending.
Congratulations to Janelle Howell as she embarks on this her journey as Miss UNCF of Oakwood University.
he Aeolians, under the direction of Jason Max Ferdinand, will present their annual Fall Concert this Saturday, December 4, at 5:00 p.m. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place in the sanctuary of the Oakwood University SDA Church, located at 5500 Adventist Boulevard in Huntsville.
The Aeolians are the recent first place winners of the iSing HBCU Choir Competition and will be performing some of their favorite holiday renditions. For more information about this event, please contact Oakwood University’s Department of Music at 256.726.7278.
At "First Chapel" on Tuesday, August 23, 2011, President Leslie Pollard conducted a service with a two-fold purpose: 1) to dedicate the new school year to God, and 2) to renew institutional commitment to the OU mission within our administrative, faculty, staff and student body.
The theme of this extended chapel service was "God First." Dr. Tim McDonald, Provost, led the processional with the University Mace, followed by the President, Vice President, Assistant Vice Presidents, the University Faculty (dressed in full academic regalia) and the OU Staff (dressed smartly in black or dark blue). Oakwood Adventist Academy and Elementary School students were also present for the program, and participated in a special prayer litany that had been written for each of our Administrators, Faculty, Staff and Students.
The service also launched "70 Days of Power," an initiative designed to engulf our campus in deep prayer for:
The entire community is invited to participate in the greatest God-seeking event in Oakwood's history. Using the Pollard devotional "Loving Leadership," which emphasizes how agape love flows from believers in powerful service, as a guide, for 70 days (August 24 to November 1, 2011), the campus is seeking tangible manifestations of God's presence and power.
A page has been created on Facebook ( 70 Days), where daily application exercises can be completed on the topic of Loving Leadership. Fasting on Mondays from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and praying at the top of every hour (for our three (3) Points of Prayer) has begun. 1 Corinthians 13 is being used in OU Departmental Worships and in prayer partner discussion, and faculty are encouraged to read from the Loving Leadership devotional in their classes as well.
God is moving already!!! Immediately after the First Chapel service, the President's Office received a surprise call from the president of Dr. Phil McGraw's Charitable Foundation. Dr. Phil had recently interviewed a 16-year-old who at one time weighed 500 pounds, but has lost 250 pounds. During the interview, Dr. Phil asked the young man what he would like to do with his life. He replied that he would like to go to college. When Dr. Phil asked, "Which college would you like to go to?" the young man replied "Oakwood."
Having never heard of Oakwood, the young man's reference to Oakwood led the foundation president to "Google" Oakwood, visit our website, and call immediately. President Pollard spent 30 minutes talking to him and the vice-president of the multimillion dollar foundation about Oakwood, and about Oakwood's God. They were then invited to visit our campus. They promised to come ASAP.
Stay tuned and welcome to the 70 Days of Power!!!
By Mark A. Kellner, Adventist Review Capping a morning of joyous singing, scripture contemplation and heartfelt prayer, Pastor Ted N. C. Wilson, president of the Seventh-day Adventist world church, delivered a call to seek Christ's "all-encompassing righteousness" at the Oakwood University Seventh-day Adventist Church in Huntsville, Alabama, United States today. The message came during Sabbath worship at the start of the Adventist world church's spring leadership meetings, being held at the Oakwood campus this year, instead of its usual location at the church's Silver Spring, Maryland, headquarters. "Christ's all-encompassing righteousness is our only hope as we rapidly come to the close of earth's history," Wilson said to an onsite congregation of approximately 2,100 as well as a live global television and Internet audience. "Seventh-day Adventists have been called to proclaim the truth as it is in Jesus. He and He alone is our salvation," he added. Wilson said Christ "calls us to accept His righteousness and to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish the last great work of proclaiming Christ, His righteousness, and His soon coming. This is the message that has been entrusted to the Seventh-day Adventist Church as His last-day remnant people." He added, "At this critical moment in earth's history, with the world collapsing around us, let us humble ourselves before the Lord realizing that our only hope is in Christ and His righteousness." Read the complete Adventist News Network article online at: http://news.adventist.org/2011/04/wilson-opens-spring.html.
By Kay Campbell Faith and Values Editor Huntsville Times With the earth itself seeming to groan under the shakings, both from war and disaster, that are signs of the last days, Elder Ted N.C. Wilson, president of the nearly 17 million-member Seventh-day Adventist Church, called worshipers Saturday to a closer relationship with Jesus. "We must give ourselves entirely to Christ in this critical time in Earth's history with the world collapsing around us," Wilson preached to about 2,000 worshipers during the regular Sabbath worship at Oakwood University Seventh-day Adventist Church. "When the character of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in his church, then he will come," Wilson said, quoting from the writings of Ellen G. White, a 19th century visionary and one of the founders of the denomination. Wilson's nearly hour-long sermon was packed with references to White and to scripture from throughout the Bible. Many of the passages and verses he used were so familiar that some in the congregation could quote them along with him. To read the complete al.com article, go to http://blog.al.com/living-times/2011/04/adventist_president_look_to_je.html.
As one of the six oldest National Science Foundation (NSF) alliances in the nation, the Alabama Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (ALSAMP) strives through its 12 member institutions to increase the quality and quantity of under-represented minority students completing baccalaureate degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. The interaction of ALSAMP students and faculty and the facilities are advantageous for all. The undergraduate institutions benefit from having their students participate in research experiences with research faculty, while the research institutions have the opportunity to work with, identify and recruit highly qualified minority students seeking to attend graduate school. The diversity of the Alliance - Historically Black Colleges/Universities, majority institutions, public and private institutions and research and teaching institutions - boast a new era of cooperation as the Alliance seeks to maximize learning opportunities and increase the achievement bar for all ALSAMP students.
The Alabama Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (ALSAMP) is composed of twelve (12) institutions consisting of seven (7) HBCU's and five (5) majority institutions. The HBCUs are Alabama A&M University, Alabama State University, Miles College, Oakwood University, Stillman College, Talladega College and Tuskegee University. The majority institutions are The University of Alabama in Birmingham, Auburn University, The University of Alabama, The University of Alabama in Huntsville and the University of South Alabama.
In the September 2011 issue, 20 of Oakwood University's alumni who were participants in ALSAMP – Joshua Anthony, Jaysson Brooks, Sheila Cooper, Sonnet Davis, Abdell Ferdinand, Ebony Hammond, Jonathan Henderson, Ashley Humphrey, Symanda Jobson, Jon McIver, Roycelyn Mentor Marcel, Jaysson Brooks, Steven LaiHing, Ryan Lang, Carl Lokko, Talitha Hampton Mayo, Raginee Mendoza, Theodore Nicholson, Victoria Poole, Mustimbo Roberts and Toni-Ann Wright – are highlighted.
The Tom Joyner Foundation has selected Oakwood University as its HBCU of the Month for November 2011. Our campaign goal has been set at $100,000, which we hope to exceed with your assistance. Donations can be made online by clicking the button below:
During November 2011, national attention will be focused on Oakwood University, and our outstanding students and graduates. The primary vehicle for this attention will be Joyner’s nationally-syndicated “Tom Joyner Morning Show,” which reaches over 15 million listeners each weekday. The Oakwood family is excited about this opportunity to assist our students with their educational goals while also nationally promoting the University. “The foundation is really happy to work with Oakwood University,” said Joyner, a graduate of Tuskegee Institute and the foundation’s chairman. “Oakwood has a wonderful history and this foundation is all about making sure students are able to stay in school.”
Male students who are enrolled as full-time students, with a 3.5 GPA and have a demonstrated financial need, are encouraged to submit an application for the Hercules Scholarship, named after Tom Joyner’s late father Hercules L. Joyner. This scholarship embodies and celebrates successful male students attending HBCUs. Students selected for this scholarship must exhibit academic excellence, leadership skills and community service. All Hercules Scholars will be announced on the Tom Joyner Morning Show during the month of November. The application deadline is Wednesday, October 26, 2011.
For more information on the Tom Joyner HBCU of the Month Campaign, please contact Cheri Wilson, director of Development, at 256.726.7584. Be sure to listen to the Tom Joyner Morning Show in your area Monday through Friday.
Hercules Scholarship Application
Oakwood University's elite choral ensemble, the Aeolians, took top honors in the recent iSing College Choir Scholarship Challenge.
The group, which has performed internationally, was one of four choirs from Historically Black Colleges and Universities to be invited to compete in the finals, held Nov. 5 at Reid Temple AME Church in Glenn Dale, Md. Winners of the competition are considered the top vocal ensemble for America's HBCUs.Led by Jason Max Ferdinand, the Aeolians performed "My Soul's Been Anchored," featuring student soprano soloist Whitney Morrison. The anthem is full of tough harmonies, poly-rhythms and musical surprises....
For the complete al.com article, go to:
http://blog.al.com/breaking/2010/11/oakwood_universitys_aeolians_t.html
Following several hours of deliberation, The Oakwood University Board of Trustees has named Leslie N. Pollard as the 11th president of Oakwood University. The Board had been in closed-door sessions all day preparing to make the final decision on who would be Oakwood’s next CEO. University provost Mervyn Warren, Ph.D., has served as interim president since August 1.
Over the past couple of months, the Presidential Search Committee has worked diligently with the Myers McRae Executive Search and Consulting firm to meticulously review all 24 confirmed applications that were under consideration since the search team officially began its work. The committee was comprised of representatives from Oakwood’s Board of Trustees, administration, faculty, staff, and students. It hosted four separate campus forums last week to allow students, faculty, staff, administrators, alumni, and members of the local community to pose questions directly to the final three candidates.
The Board met with the final three candidates this afternoon at 1:00 p.m. in the Cooper Complex Board Room on Oakwood’s campus, as part of the concluding session for its regularly scheduled fall meeting. Ted Wilson, President of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and interim Chair of the Oakwood University Board of Trustees, made the official announcement at approximately 5:30 p.m. (CST), as the Board concluded its fall session.
Until this evening, Pollard was one of three final candidates for the presidential seat, vacated in July when former president Delbert W. Baker, Ph.D., resigned the position to serve as one of nine general vice presidents of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Pollard assumes his new position as the 11th president of Oakwood University on January 3, 2011.
The two other finalists were Gina Spivey Brown, Ph.D., and Bertram L. Melbourne, Ph.D. Brown, the only female finalist, serves as Dean of the School of Health Professions, Science, and Wellness at Washington Adventist University. Melbourne is Professor of Biblical Language and Literature at Howard University School of Divinity.
Pollard’s commitment to excellence is seen in his drive for education. He earned a B.A. degree from Oakwood University and an M.Div. degree from the SDA Theological Seminary at Andrews University. He earned the D.Min. degree in Preaching and Worship from Claremont School of Theology. Seeking higher-level fiscal and administrative development, Pollard earned an M.B.A. degree in Organizational Management from the La Sierra University School of Business. To culminate his academic pursuits, he graduated from Andrews University with the Ph.D. degree in New Testament Language and Literature, with specialization in apocalyptic literature.
Pollard's 32 years of leadership reflect local, national, and international service. He has served as senior pastor, a youth pastor, a university chaplain, a health-care program administrator, and an educational administrator at LLU. As a clergyman, Pollard has functioned as an evangelist, professor, ministerial educator, and leadership development facilitator to the General Conference family. He regularly leads denominational and non-denominational leadership and mission conferences all over the world.
Pollard's orientation to fiscal leadership emerges from his experience as senior pastor of major congregations, from administering university budgets and grants, and from his graduate business education. Pollard views chief-executive leadership as a team-based collaboration between executive team members. For him, servant leadership accomplishes both the missional and financial goals of the organization, through the careful placement of committed people, the diligent monitoring of organizational processes, and the implementation of data-driven initiatives and strategies. Leadership development of his colleagues is an active passion, and Pollard's commitment to racial, cultural, and gender inclusiveness has been internationally received and affirmed.
Pollard, 54, remains a prolific writer, speaker, and engaged scholar, on the subjects of leadership, cultural competence, and mission. He has been married to the former Prudence LaBeach for 31 years. They are the parents of two daughters, who are graduates of Oakwood University.
High-resolution photographs will be available by email upon request. Please send those requests to msolomon@oakwood.edu. The Oakwood University Presidential Search Committee Brochure and video clips of the recently-held campus forums are posted on the Oakwood University website, www.oakwood.edu. Presidential inauguration events will be announced at a later date.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge weren't the only royals to marry in April, 2011. Opera diva (and OU alumna) Angela M. Brown shared an exclusive story with Patrick D. McCoy of the DC Performing Arts Examiner. Read more:
http://www.examiner.com/performing-arts-in-washington-dc/opera-s-own-royal-wedding-diva-angela-m-brown-marries-her-prince-paris
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Volunteers from NAPS (the National Association for the Prevention of Starvation), and Oakwood University students, have been working in the Harvest-Madison area of Alabama since the tornadoes struck last Wednesday (April 27, 2011).
The student volunteers were preparing for a follow-up mission to Suriname, as well as in various cities in the U.S., when disaster struck. The teams have been working since the day after, in the Anderson Hills area, and will be working in surrounding areas over the next few days. Dr. Marlo Hodnett of Abundant Life Medical Care and head of NAPS' Medical Committee, will see non-emergent cases in parking lot of 44 Hughes Road in Madison, out of NAPS Mobile Clinic.
To support NAPS's tornado relief efforts, please donate at napsoc.org.
By Paul Gattis, The Huntsville Times Published: Tuesday, June 28, 2011
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama -- It's official. Committed, the Oakwood University-based singing group who won NBC's "The Sing-Off" last December, today announced plans for a concert in their hometown.
The event -- termed "Big Event" in an email from the group -- will be July 14 at Club OD at 2322 South Memorial Parkway at 8 p.m.
Tickets will be $15 and $25 for a VIP ticket. Committed will also have merchandise available for purchase, including the group's new single "Break Free" as well as t-shirts and posters. Fans can also order the group's first album, which will be released Aug. 30.
In an interview last week with The Times, Committed member Maurice Staple said Huntsville fans basically insisted on a concert locally. Committed has been touring in recent weeks throughout the midwest.
"We had a lot of people hit us up on Twitter and Facebook and saying 'I know you guys are all over. When are you going to do a concert in your hometown?'" Staple said.
Committed members are Therry Thomas, Alain Gervais, Robert Pressley Jr., Dennis Baptiste Jr., Geston Pierre and Staple.
The concert announcement also a request for Commit