Board helps expand their network of institution’s educational offerings, support groundbreaking research, and address pressing societal challenges
HAMPTON, VA (December 16, 2024) – Hampton University proudly announces the appointment of Tiajuana Jackson, director of the Office of Sponsored Programs, to the Board of Directors for the National Sponsored Program Administrators Alliance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Inc. (NSPAA-HBCU, Inc.), an esteemed nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of sponsored program administration across HBCUs.
Jackson will play a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s mission to improve sponsored research administration through increased technical assistance workshops, conferences, training, and service activities. Sponsored programs serve as a foundation for academic excellence, research innovation, and community impact. These programs provide crucial funding and resources that enable HBCUs to expand their educational offerings, support groundbreaking research, and address pressing societal challenges.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play a critical role in educating a diverse population, producing nearly 20% of all Black graduates in the United States despite representing just 3% of all postsecondary institutions. However, they continue to face disparities in access to funding for sponsored research compared to their counterparts. Effective management of sponsored programs is key to securing higher research classifications, increasing enrollment in STEM disciplines, and fostering economic development within their communities.
According to the National Science Foundation, in 2021, HBCUs received less than 1% of the $42 billion allocated by the federal government for research and development funding at U.S. colleges and universities. This underfunding limits their ability to invest in the infrastructure, resources, and faculty needed to expand research capabilities and compete effectively for grants. Enhancing HBCUs’ ability to secure and manage sponsored program funding is vital to addressing these inequities and ensuring their sustainability as engines of academic and economic opportunity.
“We celebrate the appointment of Tiajuana Jackson to the NSPAA-HBCU Board of Directors,” said Neelam Azad, Ph.D., vice president for research. “It’s a reflection of Hampton’s commitment to nurturing leaders, strengthening connections within the broader HBCU community, and advancing HBCUs’ shared mission. Through collaboration and innovation, sponsored programs ensure that HBCUs remain at the forefront of education, research, and social transformation, paving the way for a brighter future.”
Sponsored Programs Advance HBCU Goals
Through sponsored programs, HBCUs secure funding from federal, state, and private sources to drive research in fields such as healthcare, technology, social sciences, and environmental sustainability. This not only enhances their academic reputation but also creates solutions for issues that disproportionately affect underserved communities.
Additionally, sponsored programs enrich the educational experience for students by providing opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, and collaborative projects. These experiences prepare students to succeed in competitive industries, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to the workforce and society.
“I’m honored to join NSPAA-HBCU’s Board of Directors and contribute to their essential work of empowering HBCUs through collaboration, education, and advocacy,” said Jackson. “This appointment reflects Hampton University’s deep commitment to excellence in research and advancing opportunities for all HBCUs.”
HBCUs leverage sponsored programs to build partnerships with government agencies, corporations, and philanthropic organizations. These collaborations are essential for institutional growth, enabling HBCUs to develop innovative programs and initiatives that align with their mission of access and equity in higher education.
About NSPAA-HBCU, Inc.
Founded in 1993 by Marvin H. Watkins of North Carolina A&T State University and Dr. Franklin D. Hamilton of Florida A&M University, NSPAA-HBCU, Inc. is dedicated to gaining greater visibility and broadening its membership base within the HBCU sponsored research community. Its programs provide HBCUs with resources to enhance competitiveness in research funding and foster a unified voice to address institutional needs. For more information about NSPAA-HBCU, Inc., please visit www.nspaa.com.
Elevating Hampton Excellence
Hampton University’s strategic initiative, “Elevating Hampton Excellence,” is designed to cultivate a culture of academic rigor, innovation, and community engagement. This 10-year plan focuses on enhancing educational programs, expanding research opportunities, and empowering students to become effective leaders.
Cutting-edge programs, pioneering research, and strategic industry partnerships play a critical role in shaping and driving this vision, leveraging their expertise and strategic oversight to ensure the effective allocation of resources and alignment with institutional priorities. Through cutting-edge programs, pioneering research, strategic industry partnerships, and a commitment to social mobility, the initiative aims to build an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. It reflects Hampton’s mission to transform lives, uplift communities, and harness the potential of its students, faculty, and alumni.
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About Hampton University
Hampton University, nestled along the scenic shores of Hampton, Virginia, is a dynamic historically Black institution with a storied legacy of academic excellence, pioneering research, and dedicated community service. Here, students discover an empowering environment that fuels their ambitions, nurtures their potential, and inspires them to rise, lead, and excel.
Founded in 1868, Hampton combines a robust liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on scientific and professional disciplines, offering a wide range of distinctive programs, including leading-edge degrees in STEM, aviation, business, arts, and health sciences. The University is at the forefront of research in areas such as atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity, driving innovation that impacts the world. Contributing $530 million annually to both the regional and the Commonwealth of Virginia’s economy, Hampton plays a vital role in regional development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity.
Recognized by Money Magazine as one of the “Best Colleges in America” and honored by Coastal Virginia as the “Best Private College,” Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators representing 44 states and 32 territories and nations. Committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship, Hampton prepares its students to lead and thrive in an evolving world. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.
For media inquiries, please contact Richelle Payne in the Office of University Relations, at universityrelations@hamptonu.edu or 757-727-5253. Follow us @_hamptonu.
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