The historic legacies of these institutions have left an indelible impression on the world. HBCUs have been, and continue to be at the forefront of the production of exceptional leaders in every field imaginable.
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KIZMET MILLS FROM HOWARD UNIVERSITY TO NIKE EXECUTIVE
THE ARGUING BROTHERS PODCAST
EMERGING EMINENCE PRESIDENT A. ZACHARY FAISON
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
PAT HWAY T O H O L LY WOO D SA’RAH L . JONES F E AT U R I N G DIAMONDS precious HBCUs :
Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (LU-RRTC) on Research and Capacity Building for Minority Entities The MISSION of the Langston University RRTC is to improve minority entities’ (e.g., historically Black colleges/universities [HBCUs], Hispanic-serving institutions [HSIs], and American Indian tribal colleges/universities [AITCUs]) disability and rehabilitation research capacity and infrastructure by conducting a programmatic line of research examining experiences and outcomes of persons from traditionally underserved racial and ethnic populations and communities and capacity-building efforts. LU-RRTC TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE The LU-RRTC serves as a national resource center for minority entities (MEs) seeking to develop their research infrastructure (RI), and to enhance their capacity to engage in disability and rehabilitation research. To this end, the RRTC initiates dissemination, training and technical assistance (TA) activities to develop strong RIs within MEs for the conduct of research, preparation, submission, and management of NIDRR funded research grant projects. TA services are provided as a part of LU-RRTC interventions for research project participants and to ME and SVRA requestors around the country. The quality, intensity, and duration of TA vary by system (i.e., ME or SVRA) and the readiness of TA recipients. Minority Entity TA Areas- • Faculty Scholar Role & Function Balance Consultation (e.g., teaching/service/research balance)• Sponsored Programs Office Operations Consultation • Research Infrastructure Strategic Planning • Institutional Review Board (IRB) Operation Consultation • NIDRR Research Proposal Development Mentorship • NIDRR Research Project Management Consultation • Manuscript for Peer Reviewed Publication Development Mentorship • NIDRR Request for Comment (RFC) or Request for Proposal (RFP) Interpretation Consultation • NIDRR Expert Panel Application Development Consultation • Data Management and Analysis Software and Related Technology Support Consultation State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (SVRA) TA Areas- • SVRA Policy Consultation to Improve Outcomes for Persons from Traditionally Underserved Communities • SVRA Rehabilitation Practitioner Consultation or Training to Improve Outcomes for Persons from Traditionally Underserved Communities LU-RRTC PEER-TO-PEER MENTOR RESEARCH TEAM ACADEMY The LU-RRTC Peer-to-Peer Mentor Research Team Academy represents a collaborative effort between Langston University and the Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) at the University of Massachusetts Boston. The Academy mentors Fellows to conduct research that addresses the rehabilitation needs of persons with disabilities from traditionally underserved backgrounds and communities. Ultimately, the program builds Fellows’ scholarly self-efficacy and research skills by providing them with state-of-the-science knowledge of scientifically valid measurement strategies and methodologies, and direct hands-on experience in the conduct of research and grant proposal development.
2 | 2 0 2 1 F A L L I S S U E • Present research findings at national rehabilitation related conferences If you have any questions regarding the Langston University Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Program (LU-ARRT), please contact supplements through subcontract for such faculty in residence at their employing minority-serving institution are optional). We strongly encourage individuals with disabilities to apply. We are particularly interested in recruiting candidates who have a strong desire to obtain an academic faculty position or research position at a minority-serving institution upon completion of the fellowship program. PARTICIPATION INCENTIVES: • Salary and benefits package- Annual salary with full health benefits • Peer-to-Peer multiple research mentorship opportunity with scientific panel mentors • Financial research agenda start-up package- i.e., study participant honorariums/fellow research travel • Peer reviewed publications Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Program at the Langston University Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (LU-RRTC) on Research and Capacity Building for Minority Entities PROJECT OVERVIEW: The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training (ARRT) Project at the Langston University (historically Black college/university [HBCU]) Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (LU-RRTC) on Research and Capacity Building represents a collaborative effort between the Institute for Community Inclusion at the University of Massachusetts Boston ([ICI] Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving institution), North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University ([NCA&T] HBCU), South Carolina State University ([SCSU] HBCU), and Jackson State University ([JSU] HBCU). The Project implements a Peer-to-Peer Multiple Mentor Model to help post-doctoral fellows navigate institutional context and cross-fertilize their independent research project and research grant proposal through exchanges with a primary mentor and a scientific panel of mentors comprised of content experts, multicultural specialists, methodologists, and statisticians. The ARRT Program works in concert with the LU-RRTC drawing upon the center’s extensive minority-serving institution research capacity building expertise, collaborative networks, resources, and interventions (e.g., methodology and grant writing web-based trainings, communities of practice, strategic planning, sponsored programs office and institutional review board technical assistance and consultation), offer courses, webinars, and implement peer mentoring as an innovative strategy to holistically address the fellows’ research skill building needs. INVITATION TO APPLY: We invite individuals who have earned a doctorate from a minority-serving institution (i.e., HBCU, Hispanic serving institution, or American Indian tribal college) or traditionally White institution (TWI) and current doctoral candidates (must graduate before beginning fellowship) at minority-serving institutions or TWIs interested in employment research to apply to participate in the post-doctoral fellowship. Minority-serving institution based faculty members who have earned doctorates are also eligible to apply (i.e., 80% research Dr. Corey L. Moore, Principal Investigator/Training Director at (405) 530-7531 or email: capacitybuildingrrtc@langston.edu.
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graduate always dreamed of becoming a medical doctor, but she never imagined how much of an inspiration she would become for her patients and women around the world. She shares the challenges of starting her own practice in Atlanta and navigating her diagnosis shortly after getting married. Dr. Jackie explains how her own battle with breast cancer led to the birth of her foundation, 50 Shades of Pink, supporting breast cancer warriors at all stages. Sharing a similar message, we have an article on cancer researcher, Colletta Brabham-Orr. The Voorhees grad explains how losing her grandmother to ovarian cancer served as the foundation for pursuing her passion in medical research. Her commitment to spreading awareness, specifically to Black women, about breast and ovarian cancer is nothing short of incredible. Orr educates communities around the world on the importance of mammography, understanding your family’s medical history, and paying attention to your body to uncover possible symptoms. Continuing the trend of sharing the stories of successful Black women, this issue highlights Senior Director of Global University Relations and Recruiting Programs for Nike, Kizmet Mills. The graduate of Howard University shares the unique backstory of how her plan to attend dental school transformed to her earning an MBA. Mills drops gems on exactly what Nike is looking for in internship applicants and even full-time employees. Additionally, she discusses how her time at Howard allowed her to think globally and ultimately catapulted her career. As always, it simply wouldn’t be us if we did not showcase the amazing work consistently occurring at HBCUs around the nation. While traveling is the hot topic on everyone’s mind, we’re targeting those interested in flying the plane! Check out the article on Delaware State University alum and military and commercial pilot, William Charlton Jr., to learn how a pilot training academy is partnering with three HBCUs to diversify the field of aviation. Finally, we head down to Jacksonville, Florida because the newly- named Edward Waters University is making major waves. Read about how under the leadership of President Zachary Faison, the institution’s enrollment has increased significantly, as well as the development of a new stadium, student residence facility, and several undergraduate degree programs. It’s undeniable, our beloved institutions are upholding the track record of producing outstanding leaders in society. Our hard work never stops, as is proven true by our success. Challenges arise, but we are only getting stronger and even more determined. If you’re looking to feel inspired, motivated, and equipped to take on this season as your most powerful self, enjoy this issue of HBCU Times!
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
W ith the crisp fall air approaching, we are serving upbeat energy and exciting new beginnings. Despite the challenges, we, as a global community, have remained resilient and ready for anything. We have embraced hardships, which have led to unthinkable growth, and HBCU Times is showcasing leadership and innovation like never before! This issue has a double-dose of Black girl magic, featuring two phenomenal Black women who are not only HBCU grads but advocates for representation in their respective fields. First up is the amazingly talented television writer, Sa’Rah Jones. Now, whether she’s had you dying laughing from her work on Netflix’s “Family Reunion” or CBS’ “The Neighborhood,” Jones is unapologetically taking over Hollywood. The South Carolina State University alum shares the pivotal role Black women have played in her journey to success. She reflects on her time writing scripts, all while working a full-time corporate job and being a mother. Jones urges young Black people to maintain their dream, master their craft, and seek the power necessary to tell their own stories. You’ve probably seen her gracing your television screen on the Bravo network, advocating for breast cancer awareness, or maybe even delivering your baby, because celebrity OB-GYN, Dr. Jackie Walters is everywhere. The Alcorn State University
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We’ re Depending on God, and Not You Al l About the Arguing Brothers Podcast
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7 Things You Need to Know About Biden’s Whi te House Execut ive Order VSU Tra ining the Next Generat ion of Bl ack Pol i t i ca l Leaders From Pol i t i cs to Producer
DR. TIONNA L. JENKINS BISHOP HERBERT C. CRUMP JR. CARA JOHNSON- GRAVES JENAE JOHNSON-CARR
Take Fl ight Wi th ECSU
Wi l l i am Char l ton Jr : Uni ted Ai r l ines and HBCUs A Bl ack Man’s Journey to Obta in Hi s M.D. Col letta Orr : The Fight Aga inst Cancer
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EDITOR AND CO-CEO Dr. David Staten CO-CEO Dr. Bridget Hollis Staten ART DIRECTOR Mia Salley ASSOCIATE EDITORS Amori Washington Octavia Robinson Dr. Regina Bush Deatrice Chisolm CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ericka Blount Danois Kimberlei Davis Yolanda McCutchen Dr. Marybeth Gasman Abdul-Hakeem Imoro Ashleigh Fields Dr. Crystal deGregory Bishop Herbert C. Crump, Jr. Dr. Tionna Jenkins
CREATIVE CONSULTANTS Jordan Staten Tanya Martino Dr. Corey Phillips CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dr. Jackie Walters Featured Photo: Drea Nicole Other images of Dr. Jackie Walters by Robert Ector Sa’Rah L. Jones Featured Photo: Tina Bernard- Henderson (Makeup: Wyvetta Taylor | Hair: Doni Daniels | Wardrobe: Keisha Stewart) Terrell Maxwell of Maxwell Photography Studio B Photography and Art Alanah Butler Sean Khoun-Paige Edward Waters University Morehouse College Clark Atlanta University Fisk University @camera_language www.whitehouse.gov Virginia State University Elizabeth City State University Additional photos provided by the authors and interviewees. ADVERTISING MANAGER Melvin Hart
Cara Johnson-Graves Jenae Johnson-Carr Tony Hansberry II MODELS Sharita Prioleau
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EMERGING EMINENCE: PRESIDENT A. ZACHARY FAISON
BY KIMBERLEI DAVIS
N early all of the nation’s institutions of higher education have been impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but for most Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the glow-up has been strong with an increase in enrollment, alumni giving, and contributions from high-profile celebrities and organizations. The same holds true for the newly named, Edward Waters University. Enrollment skyrocketed by 14%, and for the first time in its 155-year history, EWU became a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The single-year, double-digit percentage enrollment increase for Florida’s first HBCU was the highest overall jump the institution has seen in nearly two decades. Leading Tiger nation in its strategic goals, record-breaking growth, and other accomplishments to include a partnership with Ellucian’s Colleague SaaS to modernize its technology operations and the new Dr. Nathaniel Glover Community and Field Stadium is President and CEO, Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. Throughout his career, Dr. Faison has been privileged to sit in many rooms of influence, and he doesn’t take those moments for granted, “Anytime that I have an opportunity to create new opportunities for scaffolding and leveraging our students for success, is the most rewarding part of this job.”
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The honors alum of Albany State University and the University of Georgia School of Law (UGA) has held numerous executive leadership positions in higher education and recounted how those experiences prepared him to be at the helm of a premier urban and private institution established by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. “Seeing the direct impact and correlation that HBCUs have on the overall trajectory and development of our students and the heightened profile of our institution is particularly rewarding as president of EWU.” The only headlines coming out of Florida that President Faison is interested in surrounds the impact the institution is having on the Sunshine State.
to say,‘Son, the proof is in the pudding.’”
“If it were not for the Edward Waters University, the Johnson C. Smith University, the Florida Memorial University, the Albany State University, the Virginia Union University - you’d have to create them. These institutions are principally responsible for the Black middle and professional class. You don’t have the proliferation of African American doctors, teachers, engineers, judges, dentists, and PhDs in the STEM field if it weren’t for our institutions producing these professionals in every sphere, in every capacity - all over the world.” “When people make the argument of HBCU relevance not in a pejorative sense, but in a real sense, it’s they’re simply ignorant,” he said while dropping the mic.
“It’s my responsibility and that of other HBCU leaders, to make sure that we educate folks around the importance and continued contemporaneous relevance of these outstanding institutions that are centered around student success and the quality of the graduates that we produce, and we have a prodigious history in doing that.”
“When you talk about the record enrollment numbers at over 1,100 students, a record number of new students, rejoining the SIAC after nearly a century’s hiatus, our brand newmulti-million dollar stadium, the ribbon cutting and renovation on our largest student residence facility, and the establishment of the A. Philip Randolph Institute for Law, Race, Social Justice, and Economic Policy…those are the Florida headlines I’m most excited about,” he quipped.
Alongside President Faison in his continued quest to
produce amazing leaders, scholars and professionals is his bride for over 14 years, Tyciee L. Faison. “She is truly the proverbial wind beneath my wings - she is the personification of the new age First Lady and First Gentleman who are
All facts!
More facts, “We welcomed our first cohort into our fully online Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree
program and exceeded our goal of twenty-five students so much so that we had to move students into the next cohort to meet the demand.” Additionally, EWU will offer new undergraduate degree programs in Computer Information Science, Forensic Science, Social Work, and a dual-degree program in Nursing over the next twelve months, Faison added. Undoubtedly, the pandemic has brought inequities at HBCUs into clearer focus and highlighted disparities in funding, the digital divide, and access and support of mental health. For the naysayers who continue to downplay the impact of the Edward Waters Universities of the world, Dr. Faison had this pushback, “I hearken back to something my grandmother used
actively involved in the life of our universities.”
Mrs. Faison is a higher education administrator and seminary- trained theologian and is a “Key connector for EWU serving as our Director of Community Service and Service Learning.” “I’m truly blessed to have her helping and supporting me, because this is truly a collective call that we have here at Edward Waters University.” Some strength strategies that Dr. Faison uses to combat the “jealous jokes” are by focusing on the positive and walking five miles every morning to clear his mind and stay healthy.
He’s a huge Gospel music fan, but he also loves Trap.
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“I know that’s an interesting dichotomy, some mornings it’s John P. Kee, and the next it’s Jeezy, it just depends on what my mood is that day.” Focusing on his wife, prioritizing, putting things into perspective, and with the help of his parents Alderman Faison, Sr. and Dr. Jewel J. Faison, and sister Dr. Morgan Zacheya-Jewel Faison, he stays grounded and motivated. Faison is an Atlanta native and represents the “Dirty South” to the fullest, but quipped he’s too bougie for a bologna sandwich, doesn’t care for the sand at the beach, prefers Netflix over Hulu, and rewatched “The Wire” at the height of the pandemic.
Kimberlei Davis is a published author, brand strategist, empowerment speaker and an accomplished journalist currently working in print, digital and broadcast media. She is a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University and is the founder of The LEAP Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at assisting with the academic outcome of foster children. Kimberlei is the mother of one son, Benjamin.
There’s not much President Faison would change about his life, even those moments of nostalgia as a teen.
He’s just extremely optimistic and excited about the new capital projects at EWU and the opportunities and doors God is opening.
Connect with the writer @KimberleiDavis
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HBCUs : DEFYING THE ODDS, REDEFINING THE FUTURE
BY ABDUL-HAKEEM IMORO
T he story of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is often one that points to persistency in the eye of the storm. While some HBCUs have folded up over the years, the last to close its doors was Concordia College in 2018. The remaining 101 HBCUs have kept their heads above the water. Majority of the challenges that confront these institutions are the lack of funding and infrastructure. Beyond the foregone institutional challenges lies the uphill task of efficiently running some of these colleges tailored to minority students. Despite the challenges that confront HBCUs, Stanley Nelson and Marco Williams, in their 2018 movie: Tell Them We Are Rising, shared that these institutions are rising rods in the skies of higher education. The resilience seen in HBCUs today embodies a long history that began with slavery and, subsequently, denial of access to education for Black men and women. The emergence of Cheyney University of Pennsylvania in 1837 as the first HBCU brought a significant change in the education trajectory for Black people in America. Cheyney University signaled
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great hope for many Black men and women that yearned for higher education. The aftermath of Cheyney University saw the manifestation of other colleges such as University of the District of Colombia, which became the second HBCU in 1851, followed by Lincoln University of Pennsylvania in 1854 and Ohio-based Wilberforce University in 1856. The list of HBCUs grew for several years coming until many of them fell along the cracks as the challenges enumerated became tangible. Some started to fold due to a myriad of difficulties. A recent case in point is Cheyney University, which was on the verge of closing until the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) came to its rescue. HBCUs have remained home education to many Black men and women in America, Africa, and the Caribbean. HBCUs have become a place of cultural, intellectual, social, economic, and political diversity as many students from diverse backgrounds gather to train. For example, the first president of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah, had the privilege of training at Lincoln University. ivil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr, W.E.B. Du Bois, Rev. Jesse Jackson, among many others, have all benefited from the legacy of HBCUs. One of the many things that draw most Afrocentric students to HBCUs includes some superficial but equally relevant features: the similarity in looks, hairstyles, skin tones, food choices, and the convergence of first-generation college students across these campuses. Attributes such as these keep many students together in pursuance of success in the HBCU environments—bonds established on HBCU campuses run deep through family ties that go back to generations. But a great awakening of some sort in the HBCU story has been how funding for higher education institutions is skewed towards non- HBCUs such as Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). While these historical institutions may not have envisioned the battles ahead, several HBCUs serve as shining examples of courage under challenging times. INEQUITY IN FUNDING The last American Council on Education (ACE) report outlined the scope of inequity in federal and state government funding and investment in HBCUs. In a snapshot, public HBCUs are more dependent on federal and state funding than non-HBCUs, while private HBCUs heavily rely on tuition. In addition, private HBCUs receive a smaller number of personal gifts, contracts, and grants. Data from ACE points to a great irony: while HBCUs continue to struggle financially, these historical institutions continue to experience a decline in federal funding. Moreover, HBCUs’ endowments are lower than non-HBCUs’, like PWIs, —at least 70% behind. THE MOREHOUSE EXAMPLE HBCUs should be replicating the success stories of their own. The likes of Morehouse—an all-male college, have been a success story in STEM education. Morehouse remains a shining example that deserves all the accolades. The Atlanta- based college’s successes are attributed to capitalization on the
“HBCUs have been levers of social mobility and community shelters for Black people in America since the founding of the first institution, Cheyney University, in 1837.”
nation’s competitive demand of scientists and the lack of African Americans in these academic disciplines. Like the many other HBCUs, Morehouse has produced very influential individuals like Spike Lee, Howard Thurman, Herman Cain, and Eddie Glaude, to name a few. HBCU stories have been about denying Black men and women educational rights and about inequality in the funding of Morgan State University, Coppin State University, Bowie State University, and University of Maryland Eastern Shore−the four historically Black colleges and universities in the state of Maryland. But more importantly, the HBCU story is about the Peer-Led Team Learning (PLTL) in science and mathematics at Morehouse that encourages and teaches young Black men to become scientists. The inspiration is all about how Morehouse is making these young men ready to live in a STEM world—a career path that hardly gets a front seat discussion in many African American homes. The HBCU story is also about The Morehouse Mystique, which instills in students a character of leadership and a sense of comradery. HBCUs today aren’t just a place to obtain knowledge. Recent police brutalities and the murder of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor have flipped the story to a reassuring chapter that tells stories of HBCUs as a safer place for higher education. The challenges of HBCUs may be far from over. However, opportunities like the recent rise in enrollment numbers of HBCUs call for strategic positioning of these historical institutions for a future that will capitalize on all funding sources available. HBCUs have been levers of social mobility and community shelters for Black people in America
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since the founding of the first institution, Cheyney University, in 1837. For more than a century, HBCUs have disproportionately supported the production of middle-class Black Americans despite severe underfunding and purposeful disinvestment. HBCUs consistently overproduce, accounting for only 3% of public and not-for-profit institutions, yet enroll almost 10% of African American college students nationwide, while yielding 17% of the bachelor’s degrees and a quarter of the STEM degrees earned by Black students. Despite their critical role in producing Black graduates, the state underfunding of HBCUs has been documented in various cases, including the recent landmark HBCU Maryland case which netted $577 million to the state’s four public HBCUs. Even the Office of Legislative and Budget Analysis recently announced that the state of Tennessee withheld between $141 million and $544 million in land-grant funds to Tennessee State University between 1957 and 2007. But this is not the only sector that hasn’t invested in HBCUs, the gap in private gifts, grants and contracts between ultra-rich universities−institutions of higher education with endowments valued at more than $1 billion−and HBCUs in 2018 was $227 million, which is $100 million more than the gap in 2010. This lack of investment in HBCUs is a lack of investment in their missions to serve underserved communities and students. In comparison to their peers, though HBCUs enroll 2.1 times more Pell eligible or students from low-income families, have a significantly higher population of first-generation students at more than 50%, and educate almost 75% Black student population, their graduates are 51% more likely to move into a higher income quintile after graduation. Beyond that, HBCUs significantly contribute to the well- being of their students: HBCU graduates report higher social, purpose, community, financial, employee and physical well- being than their non-HBCU peers. The familial environment created to provide the wrap-around services required for under- resourced students also proves successful in producing graduates satisfied with their experience and prepared to be successful in the workforce demonstrated by their production of Black professionals including the creation of 80% of Black judges, 50% of Black doctors and lawyers, and 40% of Black engineers. This success is seen with HBCUs educating just 10% of the Black student population. As we focus on equity and addressing the needs of the most underserved communities and people as well as uplifting society, HBCUs will be a critical component of any plan. The necessity of their role was highlighted as we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, where the populations they are committed to serving were most affected. HBCUs mobilized to serve as testing sites, vaccination sites, provide shelter for students suffering from housing insecurity and to operate as food pantries. They were also particularly successful at preventing virus spread during on-
campus instruction with HBCUs reporting significantly lower infection rates than their peers. Additionally, HBCUs’ success at producing Black doctors will be critical to addressing health disparities also extended by the pandemic. HBCUs will play a significant role in reversing the recent economic downturn, particularly in the Southeastern US−where there are lower levels of economic well-being and where most HBCUs are located. In this area, they generate $14.8 billion annually in economic activity, producing positive economic benefits, critical for the recovery of our nation. HBCUs continue to be indispensable for educational, economic, cultural, and societal gains for Black Americans and deserve more resources and an increased focus on their work for society. As we work towards creating more equitable outcomes for society, HBCUs remain pivotal to ensuring we achieve those endeavors.
Abdul-Hakeem Imoro is a final year doctoral candidate in the Higher Education Administration Leadership and Policy program at Widener University Center for Education. He is a scholar- practitioner whose research interests focus on education policy, public policy, and journalism. His work addresses equity, diversity, and inclusion; curriculum development; institutional effectiveness; and student success in higher education. He lived and worked in Ghana as a journalist for five years. You can follow him on Twitter @Theedupolicy
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PATHWAY TO NIKE: KIZMET MILLS
BY ERICKA BLOUNT DANOIS
K izmet Mills understands that there are circuitous routes to get to your passion. Mills, the Senior Director of Global University Relations and Recruiting Programs for NIKE, Inc., is something akin to a polymath, the kind of person that can succeed in many fields of study.
Kizmet is a proud HBCU graduate and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
As an undergraduate student at Howard University, she was a Biology major and on her way to dental school. She’d applied to Meharry Medical School of Dentistry in Nashville, Tennessee and to the Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, D.C. Her goal was to own her own dental practice. While she waited for decisions from both schools, she thought that it would be a smart idea to take some business courses. As she talked to friends in the business school at Howard, she found out about a business fellowship that would pay for an MBA and eagerly applied. Soon thereafter, she found herself in a quandary when she learned she had received the fellowship. By then, she had also received an acceptance from Meharry. Mills followed her true passion and made the decision to attend the Howard School of Business – MBA Program. “I started my MBA studies at Howard and discovered Human Resources through internships and I said, ‘The world of Human Resources is vast and exciting,’” Mills remembered.
She never looked back.
Now at Nike, she leads global talent strategies and talent pipelines for early career emerging leaders for Nike, Jordan and Converse brands. She’s the head of a global team comprised of North America, EMEA, Greater China, and Asia Pacific Latin America geographies.
“I focus on collegiate and university talent - undergraduates at the junior level is a sweet spot and graduate students in the first
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year of their masters program. The philosophy is that we create internship opportunities with the goal to convert to full-time employment,” said Mills. Students that complete the internship program successfully could potentially be offered full-time employment upon graduation. The recruitment process is competitive with numerous applications and Nike hiring about 400 - 500 early career candidates globally. There are various innovative talent programs where Nike works in partnership with elite athletes to create apprenticeship and fellowship opportunites to build business capabilities. There’s also an additional segment of the pipeline that focuses on direct hires where Mills targets graduating seniors in college as well as second year master’s students. They recruit those students to start at Nike full-time. Mills’ team hires across the Nike, Inc. enterprise for various disciplines from engineers, designers, and technologists to finance, human resources, marketing, and data analytics to name a few. For Nike, there’s also a continued focus to deepen their relationships with HBCUs, says Mills. “There is amazing talent on our HBCU campuses. We are looking for students with
potential to grow and develop their career at Nike,” says Mills. “STEM talent is a huge area of excitement and is critical to Nike’s tech, digital, and sustainability initiatives.” Mills was introduced to global representation as a student at Howard University being in classrooms with students and professors from a variety of countries around the world. “Howard is called ‘The Mecca’ for a reason,” said Mills. “It peaked my interest to think globally and prepared me to launch my professional career.”
To date she’s visited over 35 countries.
Howard University, she says, also had professors that not only taught the theory of her academic discipline but also logical and strategic thinking - how to properly network and establish relationships and navigate her corporate career as a Black woman. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, she was immersed in HBCU culture from the Atlanta University Center – Spelman, Morehouse, and Clark Atlanta University.
“I was drawn to the culture, the traditions, the authentic
Howard University, had professors that not only taught the theory of her academic discipline but also logical and strategic thinking - how to properly network and establish relationships and navigate her corporate career as a black woman.
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family and belonging that an HBCU experience brings,” Mills remembers. “I had so many strong positive influences that instilled in me the importance of education and using that as a tool for empowerment.” Her main educational influence before local HBCUs and Howard University was her mother, a young, single mother, who would go on to take her along to college classrooms as she continued her education. “I literally had a front row seat as my mother navigated her college education and her professional career. She finished at a 4-year university and was my first inspiration in knowing that college would be in my future,” Mills remembers.
Mills now uses her platform to give back to students and young adults and help them realize their potential in her work at Nike.
“I have the honor to lead and influence in a space where I also have the opportunity to introduce students to their dream job,” said Mills who helps to demystify the process of getting a job and the job itself. “My role is to pull back the curtain and to let students know and understand that they can do it.” Her ideals correlate with the mission of Nike “to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world.” Nike deems everyone an athlete – “if you have a body, you are an athlete” is Nike’s motto. “I’ve been with Nike for over 5 years and during that time I’ve been able to establish strong innovative talent pathways. Early career and students and universities are such critical pipelines for talent,” said Mills. “Over the course of those years, I have been able to expand Nike’s reach by creating a comprehensive global university relations and recruiting program framework and amplifying additional diversity programs where we are activating our diversity and inclusion commitments. I’m thankful I get to do this work for a company that lives up to its mission.”
KIZMET MILLS
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Nike exists to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete* in the world. If you have a body, you are an athlete.
Our Purpose is to move the world forward through the power of sport – breaking barriers and building community to change the game for all.
Learn more about the Nike Purpose
Our Nike team is the spark that ignites our imagination, drives innovation and diversity. We invest in our employees, inspiring the new ideas, methods and products that fuel the future of sport. Learn more about Nike Careers
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BY KIMBERLEI DAVIS HBCU EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
it the nation’s most diverse cohort of future HBCU leaders.
M onths after announcing she would not seek a second term, Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has begun a new journey as an honorary fellow with a first-of-its- kind program designed to recruit and develop multidisciplinary skills among high-potential candidates for service at over 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The HBCU Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University (ELI at CAU) is funded in large part by the Chan Zuckerberg Foundation, which contributed $1 million toward the effort. The inaugural cohort of ELI at CAU comprises representatives from a variety of industries such as law, finance, arts, education, and public affairs, among others.
Bottoms, a former judge, and Florida A&M University alumna, is proof-positive that HBCUs produce leaders of extreme caliber.
“For more than 150 years, HBCUs have not only played an important role in American higher education, but also in building stronger communities and world-class leaders in every sector of society,” said Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms in a press release. “As a proud graduate of Florida A&M University, I am excited to accept this honorary fellowship and support HBCU ELI’s efforts to ensure this legacy continues.” “Mayor Bottoms is experienced, intelligent, and has a strong commitment to the next generation of women leaders,” said Dr. George T. French, Jr., president of Clark Atlanta University. “As an alumna of Florida A&M University, she continues to remind us that HBCUs can indeed create leaders who help solve society’s most pressing challenges, even in the face of crisis.”
15 women help make up the impressive 26-person roster, making
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“Initially founded in 2018, under the leadership of Dr. Lewis Sullivan, Dr. Johnny Parham, and Dr. Samuel Jolley, the HBCU ELI program was developed with 13 competencies,” said Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, former president of Bennett College and HBCU ELI executive director. “I report to a board of roughly 28 people who helped us launch the program as we know it today,” she said. “The first virtual seminar was held in June and another is scheduled for early September.”
Dr. French said HBCU ELI participants will also be awarded micro-credentials, and there will be a monthly mentorship and coaching component. “The low-residency model currently consists of intensive online presentations, but to culminate in the Fall, we will meet in- person,” Dawkins said. “We will keep the low-residency model because there is some strength in a virtual space, and we can touch people quicker.” The culminating celebration will always be held at the Atlanta University Center, “So they can see what a historically Black college looks like because some of the fellows are from majority- white institutions although a lot of their roots lead them back to HBCUs.”
The criteria was pretty substantial and the applications were competitive.
Dawkins said the cohort increased from 20 to 26, “We looked for those with administrative and management experience in education at the dean’s level or higher, those in corporate America and new presidents.” Dr. French said “the initiative addresses the critical need to train HBCU presidents to lead for more than the average tenure, which is about three years.” CAU is one of nine HBCUs in Georgia accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). According to Dr. French, many HBCU presidents get burned out and their tenure is about half that of all U.S. college and university presidents. “We are training people who can step into the role, equipped to lead for more years than our counterparts,” he said. “The fellows are charged with learning 13 competencies that every president should know and demonstrate.” The competencies fall under six frameworks: Social Impact, Personal Impact, Institutional Impact, Serving the Mission, Creating Capacity, and Leading Change. Like Bottoms, Dawkins is also a history maker having worked at five HBCUs - South Carolina State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Dillard University, Cheyney University, and the 18th President of Bennett College. The award-winning researcher and tenured professor said she would have appreciated a program like HBCU ELI before taking the helm at Bennett University. “I came with my experience in academic affairs; however, when you become president, you are president of more than just academics but rather the entire institution. It’s beneficial to know a little bit about everyone’s position and the 13 competencies our fellows will learn about touches on board governance, finance, and others.”
The program boasts of 58% women, which makes Dr. Dawkins elated.
“We have a very objective selection committee, who chose the best applicants from the pool we had at the time. We are very, very proud of that,” she said. “These are very strong females and I admire their strength to pursue this executive leadership training,” Dawkins said. “Sometimes as females, we know that we are good at what we do, but we just stay at the same level or see ourselves slowly move up the ladder instead of aggressively seeking these opportunities.” Submissions for the next HBCU ELI Fellows began in September, with an announcement in November, and training will be from January 2022 until December 2022. With the support of a distinguished HBCU ELI Advisory Board and the Council of Past HBCU Presidents, the program can ensure the long-term sustainability of over 100 HBCUs. To celebrate Mayor Bottoms’ honorary designation, some members of the Board and Council will participate in the Mayor’s Cup Golf Tournament, beginning the event with ceremonial first tee shots. Additional funding sources for HBCU ELI at CAU are Microsoft Corporation, The Rich Foundation, Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, Toyota, ECMC Foundation, United Methodist Church, the late Dr. Frederick Humphries (former president of Florida A&M University and Tennessee State University), and other individual donations. For program updates and to apply for the future cohorts, visit ELIatCAU.org.
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O n September 3, 2021, President Biden issued an Executive Order on the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities. With this action, he was following all U.S. presidents since President Jimmy Carter. Carter signed the first Executive Order on August 8, 1980, making it clear that HBCUs are important to society, that systemic barriers to success had long existed for these institutions, and that the federal government has a role and obligation in making opportunities available to HBCUs. Below are seven (7) things you should know about the new Executive Order: WHITE HOUSE EXECUTIVE ORDER BY DR. MARYBETH GASMAN 7 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BIDEN’S
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The Biden Administration recognizes the challenges – highlighted by COVID-19 – that HBCUs face when it pertains to physical and digital infrastructures on their campuses. Pivoting to on-line learning definitely happened at HBCUs, but the pivot revealed inequities that must be addressed through federal support and private investment.
President Biden and his team realize that there are barriers to opportunity and resources at the federal level and are committed to reducing these barriers and the bureaucracy that hold them in place.
There have long been inequities in research funding of HBCUs, with HBCUs receiving very little funding and that funding being clustered in a few HBCUs. The Biden administration recognizes these issues as well as how the lack of sponsored programs infrastructure, and grant writing and grant procurement resources at HBCUs makes securing federal funding an uphill climb. An investment in these areas would enable HBCUs to compete for federal funding on a level playing field.
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The Biden administration understands that there are long-term impacts related to COVID-19, and that HBCUs will need support to weather these impacts. HBCUs are on their radar for long-term support.
Many of the themes in President Biden’s Executive Orders have been in previous Orders. However, an advantage that he has is in his team. He chose people to lead these initiatives who have keen and long-standing knowledge of HBCUs, who have been advocating for them regularly, and who use data and evidence to support the beautiful life experiences of HBCU students when advancing the HBCU agenda.
Realizing that information is power, and that far too many people are ill-informed about HBCUs and their contributions to students and society overall, the Biden administration is committed to “strengthening the capacity to improve the availability, dissemination, and quality of information about HBCUs.” Ensuring that the HBCU story is visible and well known is essential to HBCU sustainability.
The Executive Order is focused on student success and retention – the keys to sustaining HBCUs and moving more African Americans into the middle class. The Biden administration is keenly focused on college affordability, degree attainment, improving infrastructure, and modernizing HBCU campuses.
President Biden’s team built in an evaluation mechanism in the Executive Order so that HBCU leaders and advocates are regularly consulted on the progress made by the Initiative and to hold President Biden accountable for his support of HBCUs.
Dr. Marybeth Gasman is the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Endowed Chair in Education & Distinguished Professor at Rutgers University.
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VSU TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF BLACK POLITICAL LEADERS BY YOLANDA McCUTCHEN
Dr. Bellamy. Offering political leadership training is a further extension of the VSU political science department’s focus on the state’s Black population. The department’s polling about Black Virginia voters has been well received, according to Dr. Bellamy. The JMLI intends to take a unique approach of educating Black Virginians to understand the political system and how to become involved. Regarding the significance of this center being housed at Virginia State, Dr. Bellamy says, “There are no institutes in Virginia that are specifically dedicated for developing Black political leadership. And that’s what we’re looking to do. There’s nothing wrong with us owning our politics. There’s nothing wrong with us taking care of ourselves, and there’s nothing wrong with us saying that we have to do this for Black people, because if we don’t no one else will.” Members of the cohort will participate in events throughout Virginia while learning about the commonwealth’s political landscape with a focus on African Americans from September through November, “The goal is to show how Black political leadership operates in these different spaces but also how you navigate these spaces as a Black politician in a wide variety of different fields.” Institutes at other universities can cost thousands of dollars to receive training. Dr.
T his fall on the campus of Virginia State University (VSU), the first cohort of the John Mercer Langston Institute (JMLI) for African American Political Leadership will begin training under the tutelage of Dr. Wes Bellamy, Chair of the VSU Department of Political Science and Director of the JMLI. The program will focus on preparing African American leaders to run for and serve in public office, public administration, protesting, and policy change/implementation. “What we’re trying to do with the institute is create a center that truly develops Black political leadership, not just develops a bench for people to run for office; but also we understand that being in politics is not just about the face or the individuals who are elected. It’s also about your county administrators. It’s also about the people who run the school board. The people who work for public works and parks and rec and your finance department and who work at the state capitol, who work on the hill. We’re taking a multifaceted approach of developing persons to fill all of those roles,” said
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