antonius

Hampton, Va. (Dec. 12, 2022) —Hampton University announced today that it has entered into a collaborative partnership with Yale University, which has created the Pennington Fellowship. The new scholarship program will support New Haven public school students who choose to attend Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

The Pennington Fellowship will support 10 to 12 students in each college-bound cohort for four years, with each student receiving up to $20,000 toward tuition and fees per year. When fully implemented, 40 to 50 students will receive Pennington scholarships at any given time.

“We are grateful for Yale’s collaboration with Hampton University in creating new educational pathways for students of historically disenfranchised communities,” said Darrell K. Williams, Hampton University President. “The Pennington Fellowship opens doors for high-caliber students from New Haven, Connecticut to obtain a world-class education here at ‘Our Home by the Sea’ or at another partner HBCU.”

In addition to Hampton University, the Pennington Fellowship is established with Morehouse College, Morgan State University, and Spelman College. Yale will add to the number of eligible institutions as more partnerships are established.

The new scholarship bears the name of Reverend James W. C. Pennington, the first Black student to attend Yale. Born enslaved on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, he lived for 24 years as a fugitive before securing his freedom. Pennington was prevented from formally enrolling at Yale because of his skin color, but he audited classes at Yale Divinity School before continuing a noteworthy career as a minister, antislavery organizer, scholar, and speaker.

“This scholarship addresses, in part, historical disparities in educational opportunities for Black citizens,” Yale President Peter Salovey said Monday in an announcement to the Yale community. “It will be funded by Yale and administered by the New Haven Promise program, which the university co-founded in 2010 to put the dream of a college education within reach for young people in our home city who otherwise could not afford it.”

Despite living at a time when Black citizens were denied equality, Pennington pursued education for himself and others throughout a life lived with extraordinary courage. From 1828 to 1834, he hired teachers to tutor him in Greek and Latin and attended night school, all while working as a coachman in Brooklyn Heights and gaining prominence as a delegate at the first Colored Convention in Philadelphia. His legacy is bolstered by his work to write the first African American history textbook.  

The scholarship program is part of a broad initiative, known as Belonging at Yale, that aims to create a stronger and more inclusive university community. Belonging at Yale efforts enhance diversity, support equity, and promote an environment of welcome, inclusion, and respect.

Applicants for the scholarships must be seniors at a New Haven public high school, submit an essay, provide a letter of recommendation, and have participated in at least 40 hours of community service. Fellowship applications are currently being accepted; the first group of Pennington Fellows will begin college in the fall of 2023.

For more information, see the FAQ on the New Haven Promise website, or email info@newhavenpromise.org to ask additional questions about the application process.

#HU#

Hampton University News is produced and published by the Hampton University Office of University Relations, 757-727-5253.

Hampton, VA (December 12, 2022) – Hampton University has a history of being first on many fronts:  the first HBCU to have full control of a NASA satellite mission; the first and only HBCU to have a proton therapy cancer treatment facility, The Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute (HUPTI) and in November 2023 the Hampton University Marching Force band directors Dr. Thomas L. Jones, Directors of Bands, and Assistant Directors of Bands Mr. Clifford Cox, II, and Mr. Alexander Hamilton, II were selected to participate in the 2023 Macy’s Day Parade.  They are the first HBCU band directors to be a part of the Saluting America’s Band Directors Marching Band.  

“It’s an honor to not only be selected to this prestigious event as an individual, but for all three of our directors to be selected, it truly underscores the hard work and dedication that goes into The Marching Force. Under President Williams’ leadership, he has inspired our staff and students alike to seek out and achieve these types of goals,” said Dr. Thomas L. Jones.  Although Dr. Jones plays 14 instruments, he will most likely play trumpet in this band.

The Saluting America’s Band Directors (SABD) was created by the?Michael D. Sewell Memorial Foundation in 2017 to carry on the legacy of the late Mike Sewell, longtime band director in the Pickerington, Ohio school system. This Foundation project, named Saluting America’s Band Directors (SABD), was conceived as a way to recognize and salute the extraordinary dedication and accomplishments of band directors everywhere—public and private schools at all levels, colleges and universities, the military and community bands. 

Joining Dr. Jones, playing Baritone, is Assistant Director of Bands Mr. Clifford Cox, II. “I have a belief that it is important for students to see their directors practice the same craft they are. It’s one thing for them to hear old stories and see old pictures or recordings.  It’s another for them to witness it with their own eyes and understand that the dedication to the craft and to musicianship is ongoing,” Cox added.

Rounding out this tremendous trio of musicians is Mr. Alexander Hamilton, II, playing percussion who also serves as an Assistant Director of Bands.  “To me, the idea of a band comprised of band directors from across the nation is exciting! Directors are often in the position of curating the performance and rarely a part of the show. When Hampton performed in 2021, we (the directors) had to sprint behind the television production crew to get back ahead of the band and were only able to watch the performance from being tagged on social media. Now, we will have the honor to be on the main stage along with other music educators as performers,” said Hamilton.

The 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will be Thursday, November 23^rd in New York City!  

About The Marching Force 

The Hampton University Band Program currently consists of the Marching Band, the Concert Band, the Symphonic Winds and the Basketball Band. Each of these organizations strive to provide a high level of musical experience for its members, and provides music for various University functions under the umbrella of the Department of Music.

The Hampton University Marching Band, “The Force”, is a grand example of the positive impact of music on student engagement and success. The Force provides experiences which assist students in their ability to assume responsibility, establish a professional attitude, gain self-confidence, develop a humanistic attitude toward life, become proficient in their area of musical specialization, appreciate diverse cultures, and contribute positively to the world around them.

The Force is most often found serving alongside the Hampton University football team on Saturday game days. Fan anticipation is reserved for half time and the battle that will ensue to determine the musical champion of the day. It is a sight to behold and an adventure within itself. The cadence of the Drum Majors leading the march of musicians on a mission to perform at their best and make the audience feel their drive in the depths of their chest along with the beat of the S.T.I.C.K.Y. Situation drum line. The Ebony Fire dance team and S.I.L.K.Y. flag line sway in rhythmic unison, while the crowd watches in awe, mesmerized. They execute so precisely and so effortlessly, that the audience never fully understands the extreme dedication and hard work that goes into making each performance an exquisite experience for the senses of sight and sound.

https://www.humarchingforce.com/

About Saluting America’s Band Directors

The concept behind the Saluting America’s Band Directors (SABD) project was to create a unique marching band of band directors comprising band directors and music educators from across North America. The band was recruited through advertising, social media, word of mouth and endorsements from well-known leaders in the profession. Renowned band director Jon Waters joined this effort to lead the Band Directors Marching Band. 

https://banddirectorsalute.org/

 

#HU#

Hampton University News is produced and published by the Hampton University Office of University Relations, 757-727-5253.

Both HU students will receive 5G’s ($5,000) and mentorship opportunities to jumpstart their careers

HAMPTON, Va. (Dec. 12, 2022) — Hampton University seniors Sarah ‘Lee’ Buckner and Amber Anderson were announced as members of AT&T’s Dream in Black second Rising Future Makers Class. The 2022 class honors 25 students, all from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), who are making a positive impact in their communities and on their campuses.

“This moment is one of my biggest accomplishments ever,” said Bucker. “Being an AT&T Rising Future has been on my vision board since early this summer. I’m honored that AT&T sees me and wants to help me take my dreams to the next level. I prayed for this moment, and it’s finally here.”

“Becoming an AT&T rising future maker, is an absolute dream turned to reality,” said Anderson. “I am now able to continue fulfilling my passion of running my nonprofit black is gold and positively impacting the lives of young women who look like me” 

An extension of AT&T’s Dream in Black Future Makers program, Rising Future Makers reflects AT&T’s continued commitment to empower diverse communities. As AT&T works to help bridge the digital divide, which disproportionately impacts communities of color and HBCU students, AT&T will provide access to technology and resources that connect the students to greater possibility. 

“We received hundreds of nominations from across the country and only 25 selected,” said Betsy Francis, Vice President / General Manager of AT&T Mid Atlantic. “These two from Hampton University are talented individuals that stood out because of their selfless work, extreme talent, and their purpose to do good for others and support their community and future youth.”

Both Hampton students received $5,000 presented by AT&T 5G, an iPhone 13 with one year of AT&T service, among other gifts. They also will get professional workshop opportunities, including mentoring sessions with AT&T executives aimed at growing their network and furthering their career opportunities.  

The Dream in Black Rising Future Makers program is geared towards promoting young Black talent and ensuring they have access to the network and resources they need to realize greater possibility. The inaugural class of 2021 saw tremendous success from the program, and many have graduated to begin their careers in tech, law, health, and politics with connections made through the opportunity. Beyond the initial workshops and networking opportunities, AT&T continued to support the future makers with exposure to hands-on opportunities that would further their dreams, including broadcast segments alongside actress and content creator Tabitha Brown as well as participating in panel discussions with AT&T executives at the 2022 Essence Music Festival.

Current Rising Future Makers will participate in a development workshop available exclusively to the students, where they can learn key tips on how to personally brand and pitch themselves to executive leaders. Within the experience, the inaugural class of Rising Future Makers and the 2022 class will be invited to attend networking opportunities and provide ongoing feedback, related to the program.

Baker and Anderson are the second and third Hampton students to be named Rising Future Makers. Trajan Baker was named in the inaugural Rising Future Makers class of 2021.

#HU#

Hampton University News is produced and published by the Hampton University Office of University Relations, 757-727-5253.

HAMPTON, Va. (Nov. 22, 2022) – Hampton University is announcing today that Director of Athletics, Eugene Marshall, Jr. will be leaving to pursue a new and exciting opportunity effective Jan. 3, 2023.

Since his hire in the Fall of 2014, Marshall has overseen several successful and historic moments in Hampton’s Athletics history. Some major accomplishment under Marshall’s leadership in Department of Athletics include successfully navigating conference realignment from the MEAC, to the Big South and now the Colonial Athletic Association, launching Hampton Nation, the fundraising component for Pirate Athletics, winning 19 combined conference or divisional championships, and charted three new sports: Women’s Soccer, Men’s Lacrosse and Women’s Triathlon. 

“Hampton University is appreciative of Mr. Marshall’s many contributions and the successes we achieved during his more than eight years as Athletic Director,” said Hampton University President, LTG. Darrell K. Williams, US Army Retired. “We thank him for helping Hampton build leaders and champions and we wish him well in all of his future endeavors.”

Hampton University will announce transition plans and interim leadership for Pirates Athletics in the near future.  

“Rest assured, continuity in our support to our Student Athletes and Athletic Department staff will remain our top priority,” Williams said.

#HU#

Hampton, VA (Nov. 3, 2022) — Kamaria Horton, a Hampton University Honors student majoring in computer science, has been named a national finalist in the Schwarzman Scholarship competition.  The graduate-level scholarship, awarded annually to 100 U.S. citizens and 100 international citizens, is in its seventh year. Despite its recent establishment, it is a coveted prize, established and endowed by American billionaire, Stephen A. Schwarzman. The award has quickly become one of the most respected, post-graduate scholarships in the world — taking its place alongside other leading awards such as the Rhodes, Marshall, Fulbright, Mitchell, and Gates-Cambridge Scholarships.   

Recipients of the Schwarzman Scholarship will spend one year in Beijing, China pursuing a fully funded Master’s degree in global leadership at the Schwarzman College of Tsinghua University.  Schwarzman College is the unique, English-speaking academic home to all Schwarzman Scholars who,according to Stephen A. Schwarzman, therein have the opportunity to “live together, work together and have fun together.”  Nearly a decade ago, Schwarzman commissioned the building of Schwarzman College in the historic and highly acclaimed Tsinghua University, one of China’s premier engineering schools, essentially the “M.I.T. of China.” Although all activities at the College are carried out in English, every Schwarzman Scholar is required to take a course in Mandarin during their one-year stay. Schwarzman interacts directly with the Scholars and draws upon his extensive global network of leaders and influencers to address and mentor the Schwarzman Scholars, who share their insights, observations, and wisdom as guidance for training highly effective leaders for the 21st century world.

A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Kamaria Horton is an active student leader at Hampton University. She is a member of the Freddye T. Davy Honors College, where she recently organized and led an in-house Honors College student retreat.  Horton recently stated, “The application process for the prestigious Schwarzman Scholarship required rigorous self-exploration of my character, my academic goals, and my leadership experiences.  While completing my application, I struggled with fears and doubts that I would not be able to articulate the reasons I should be named a Schwarzman Scholar.  However, I pushed through my fears and trusted myself with the time and patience needed to create an application worthy to be selected for an interview.”  As for receiving notification of her invitation to interview, she added, “When the email from Schwarzman Scholars appeared in my inbox, I began to prepare for disappointment.  Instead, I read the words ‘Congratulations’ and my mouth dropped!”

Horton will interview for the prestigious scholarship during the first week of November.  If she prevails, she will become the third Schwarzman Scholar to have been chosen from Hampton University, following Ivana Thomas, a member of the inaugural class of Schwarzman Scholars in 2016 and the first Schwarzman winner from an HBCU; and current medical school student,Adaya Sturkey, who won the Schwarzman Scholarship while a pre-med major at Hampton University in 2018.

“Congratulations to Ms. Kamaria Horton on reaching this monumental academic achievement,” said Dr. JoAnn W. Haysbert, Chancellor and Provost of Hampton University. “To be named as a finalist for such a prestigious award is testimony to the exemplary work Ms. Horton has produced during her collegiate career and further proof of Hampton University’s ‘Standard of Excellence.’ On behalf of the Hampton we wish her the best of luck.”

~ Hampton Alum Wanda Sykes Makes Major Contribution~

HAMPTON, VA (Nov. 1, 2022) — More than 400 donors have contributed more than $160,000 in just two months – to raise funds for the scholarship campaign initiated by alumni members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Gamma Theta Chapter of Hampton University. This campaign was initiated in honor of this chapter’s 75^th anniversary. The campaign began in April 2022 and will continue through June 30, 2023, where total contributes are expected to top the goal of $175,000 in donations. A check presentation of current totals was made to Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams at the university’s annual homecoming game held Sat., Oct. 22, 2022.

Campaign Co-Chair Sydni Craig, said, “For our national AKA organization, one of our most important priorities is to support scholarships for deserving, underrepresented students. Scholarships provide an opportunity for people to earn an education. Without assistance from outside sources, students may have trouble paying for their degrees.” 

Tonya Hamilton Cody, another Campaign Co-Chair, led efforts to meet with sorority members from across the world to share why they should contribute. She said, “We knew we could raise the funds for this important initiative. We already have established an endowed scholarship and we knew it was vitally important to expand our college scholarship support. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our Hamptonians so extensively, we knew that our anniversary would serve as a galvanizing moment for alumni of the Gamma Theta Chapter of AKA.”

The third Campaign Co-Chair, Kirsten Roach, added, “We are AKA’s and Hamptonians. Although contributions will continue to be accepted for this special campaign, we felt that the 2022 Homecoming was the perfect venue to focus our efforts and raise the visibility of the need for scholarship support by all alumni.”

The final and fourth Campaign Co-Chair was Tisa Rabun-Marshall who managed marketing and public relations for the campaign. She noted, “It truly was inspiring to work with the sorors from all across the globe and to meet with them in our Zoom calls. This was fun plus it reminded us of the importance of giving to our alma mater.”

To raise the visibility of the campaign, the co-chairs sought the support of all AKA Gamma Theta alumni. To that end, support from Emmy Award winning actor, comedian, and writer, Wanda Sykes was sought. She said, “I love my ‘Home by the Sea.’ I love its place in history as a major producer of top diverse talent. Hampton is and was such an important part of my success, and I’m so very pleased to give back through my sorority’s scholarship campaign.”

The funds raised will be equally split between the Gamma Theta Chapter’s Endowed Scholarship Fund and a new Current Use Scholarship Fund. 

For more information, contact the Office of University Relations at 757.727.5253. 

About Hampton University
Hampton University is a comprehensive institution of higher education, dedicated to the promotion of learning, building of character and preparation of promising students for positions of leadership and service. Its curriculum emphasis is scientific and professional with a strong liberal arts under girding. In carrying out its mission, the University requires that everything that it does be of the highest quality. A historically black institution, Hampton University is committed to multiculturalism. The University serves students from diverse national, cultural and economic backgrounds. Research and public service are integral parts of Hampton’s mission. In order to enhance scholarship and discovery, the faculty is engaged in writing, research, and grantsmanship. In achieving its mission, Hampton University offers exemplary programs and opportunities which enable students, faculty and staff to grow, develop and contribute to our society in a productive and useful manner. Visit www.hamptonu.edu for more information.

HAMPTON, VA (Nov. 1, 2022) — Hampton has announced receipt of a $100,000 donation on an unrestricted basis from Golden Nugget Online Gaming VA, LLC (“GNOG VA”), a subsidiary of DraftKings Inc., a digital sports entertainment and gaming company created to fuel the competitive spirit of sports fans with products that range across daily fantasy, regulated gaming and digital media. Hampton intends to dedicate the funds to scholarships for students with the greatest academic need. 

“Golden Nugget Online Gaming and DraftKings are committed to supporting the communities in which we operate,” said Paul Liberman, DraftKings’ President, Global Technology and Product. “Hampton, and Virginia’s other HBCU’s, play a vital role in educating and preparing future innovators, inventors and disruptors. We’re proud to invest in such a worthy mission.”

“We’re pleased to continue our financial commitment in support of the 5 historically Black colleges and universities of Virginia,” said Dennis Cotto, Principal, Virginia Sports Technology Group. “To date, Golden Nugget Online Gaming VA has contributed $1.5 million to the 5 HBCUs and, as a Principal in Virginia Sports Technology Group, which is a member of Golden Nugget Online Gaming VA, an important part of our business ethos is to be an impactful community partner and reinvest in our own communities.” 

In addition to Hampton, GNOG VA donated $100,000 for unrestricted use to each of Norfolk State University, Virginia Union University, Virginia State University and Virginia University of Lynchburg. 

For more information, contact the Office of University Relations at 757.727.5253. 

About Hampton University
Hampton University is a comprehensive institution of higher education, dedicated to the promotion of learning, building of character and preparation of promising students for positions of leadership and service. Its curriculum emphasis is scientific and professional with a strong liberal arts under girding. In carrying out its mission, the University requires that everything that it does be of the highest quality. A historically black institution, Hampton University is committed to multiculturalism. The University serves students from diverse national, cultural and economic backgrounds. Research and public service are integral parts of Hampton’s mission. In order to enhance scholarship and discovery, the faculty is engaged in writing, research, and grantsmanship. In achieving its mission, Hampton University offers exemplary programs and opportunities which enable students, faculty and staff to grow, develop and contribute to our society in a productive and useful manner. Visit www.hamptonu.edu for more information.

HAMPTON, VA (NOV 1, 2022) — The Deloitte Foundation has made a grant of $200,000 to provide scholarships for 20 Hampton University freshman students majoring in business, accounting, and STEM who are enrolled in the 2022-2023 academic year. Each scholarship recipient has received $10,000 in funding.

Students eligible for the scholarship were required to be full-time students, accepted and enrolled in a four-year bachelor’s degree program at Hampton in one of the following areas: Accounting, Business, Finance, Engineering, Computer science, Information systems, or Mathematics. Scholarship recipients had to have minimum cumulative GPAs of 3.0 and demonstrated leadership impact and/or community service engagement. 

The selections were made through Hampton University’s Office of Financial and Scholarships as each student evaluation included a review of the need for the students. Below are the students who have been awarded scholarships.

Lavearion Bates	VA	Computer Science
Keana Beaufort	GA	Computer Engineering
Dori Bob	VA	Business Management
Tamia Booker	VA	Accounting
Briana Bradley	IL	Computer Science
Camiah Butler-Dungee	PA	Accounting
Saffie Cherif	MD	Computer Science
Anaya Efferson	MD	Computer Science
Madison Johnson	IN	Business Administration
Layla Kennedy	SC	Mathematics
Damon Lee	MD	Computer Engineering
Quentin Livingston	VA	Computer Engineering
Johnny Matthews	TX	Computer Information Systems
Elias Nelson-Clark	TX	Business Management
Taylor Richardson	MD	Business Administration
Monika Smith	NY	Finance
Alyssa Smith	SC	Accounting
Daniel Ufua	MD	Computer Engineering
Zaynah Williams	MN	5-Year MBA
Kierra Wylie	IN	Business Management

Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management and Dean of Admission, Angela Boyd, said “Many know of the critical importance of academic scholarships for students who may not otherwise have access to support. But for HBCU students, the need is even more profound. We commend the Deloitte Foundation for such a large gift that will help so many young people and assist Hampton in its goal of delivering the #1 student experience in America!” 

For more information, contact the Office of University Relations at 757.727.5253. 

About Hampton University
Hampton University is a comprehensive institution of higher education, dedicated to the promotion of learning, building of character and preparation of promising students for positions of leadership and service. Its curriculum emphasis is scientific and professional with a strong liberal arts under girding. In carrying out its mission, the University requires that everything that it does be of the highest quality. A historically black institution, Hampton University is committed to multiculturalism. The University serves students from diverse national, cultural and economic backgrounds. Research and public service are integral parts of Hampton’s mission. In order to enhance scholarship and discovery, the faculty is engaged in writing, research, and grantsmanship. In achieving its mission, Hampton University offers exemplary programs and opportunities which enable students, faculty and staff to grow, develop and contribute to our society in a productive and useful manner. Visit www.hamptonu.edu for more information. 

About The Deloitte Foundation
The Deloitte Foundation, founded in 1928, is a not-for-profit organization that supports education in the U.S. through a variety of initiatives that help develop the next generation of diverse business leaders, and their influencers, and promote excellence in teaching, research and curriculum innovation. The Foundation sponsors an array of national programs relevant to a variety of professional services, benefiting high school students, undergraduates, graduate students and educators. Learn more about the Deloitte Foundation.

HAMPTON, Va. (Oct. 3, 2022) — Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams today announced the appointment of Walter T. Tillman, Jr., Ph.D. as vice president and chief of staff. In this position, Dr. Tillman, Jr. will bring administrative leadership, direction, evaluation, and synchronization of university-wide priorities and operations to the University. He has also been appointed associate professor of education in the School of Liberal Arts and Education.

“Dr. Walter T. Tillman, Jr. is a seasoned university professional and committed HBCU advocate who will also provide strategic resources and support for elevated excellence to all student populations, including international students, adult learners, and military veterans,” said President Williams. “Additionally, Dr. Tillman, Jr. will assist in addressing priorities related to advancing Hampton University as a world-class university that delivers the #1 student experience in America.”

Dr. Tillman, Jr. is an accomplished scholar, administrator, orator, and public servant who has cultivated a successful 20-plus year career in higher education and government. Most recently, he was the inaugural dean of graduate studies at Edward Waters University where he developed the first strategic plan for graduate studies, which included several new credentials and the University’s newly approved Master of Arts in Education Policy and Advocacy.

Prior to his time at Edward Waters, Tillman, Jr. was special assistant to the chancellor of the Southern University Law Center and former system officer for academic initiatives at the Southern University System. Previously, he has served in the positions interim dean of student affairs and enrollment management, interim vice president for academic and student affairs, and senior development officer for corporate and foundation relations.

Dr. Tillman, Jr. earned the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Education Leadership, Research and Counseling from LSU, studying under the scholar Roland W. Mitchell, Ph.D. At LSU, Tillman, Jr. developed the seminal work “The Ebony Seven – private HBCUs best positioned to achieve global competitiveness.” He also holds the Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Dillard University and the Master of Education degree in Education Administration from the University of New Orleans. 

Acknowledged by national organizations for his leadership and academic accomplishments, Dr. Tillman, Jr. was elected to three national honor societies and has been appointed to seven Boards of Directors. He is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and is a licensed Baptist minister.

Since December 2021, Dr. Tillman, Jr. has been married to Mrs. Chrisjanea Tillman – a third generation HBCU alumna.

#HU#

HAMPTON, Va.(Oct. 12, 2022) — The Hampton University Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications welcomes Kimberly Wimbish, an accomplished public relations professional known locally as a PR “star,” to its teaching staff.

Kimberly Wimbish will serve as an adjunct professor and teach “Principles of Public Relations” and “PR, Campaigns, & Media Brand Marketing.” She also will serve as the faculty advisor for the Hampton University public relations student society of America and Brand 757, the journalism and communications school’s student-run PR agency.

“We are thrilled to have Ms. Wimbish join our teaching team,” said Julia A. Wilson, dean of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications. “Her stellar reputation, hands-on approach to teaching and robust network of contacts are invaluable for our students.” 

Wimbish is known as the “People Connector” and the marketing & brand guru of the Hampton Roads community. She is a 2020 recipient of “Inside Business Forty Under 40” for outstanding young business professionals in Hampton Roads. Her clients include non-profit organizations, small businesses, universities, celebrities, political campaigns, and she provides sports management marketing and branding to corporations. 

Wimbish served as the spokesperson for the family of Ashanti Billie, a 19-year-old missing woman, which resulted in the National Ashanti Alert Act in the United States. On December 31, 2018, the act became federal law, creating a national alert system for adults aged 18 – 64 – those too old for an Amber Alert and too young for a Silver Alert.

Wimbish’s work has appeared on a multitude of national platforms. Her diverse portfolio of connections, including media outlets, has landed her clients in an array of national media outlets, publications, and radio programming including Fox News, CNN, BET, Essence, Ebony, Jet, CBN, Washington Post, Vibe, Source, New York Times, The Guardian, and others. 

The Hampton University Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications is committed to preparing its students with a high-quality and well-rounded education for global careers in journalism and strategic communications. SHSJC emphasizes journalistic and communications accuracy, balance, fairness, integrity, and high ethical standards of excellence. The Scripps Howard brand is internationally renowned as a foundation that promotes, supports, and enables aspiring journalists.

HAMPTON, Va. (Oct. 3, 2022) — Hampton University is excited to announce the appointment of Joy L. Jefferson as Vice President and Executive Assistant to Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. Jefferson brings more than twenty-five years of experience in higher education to the campus and is certainly no stranger to Hampton University. Jefferson is a Hamptonian through and through. 

“We are very excited to announce Joy Jefferson’s return to Hampton University, serving as Vice President and Executive Assistant to the President. Mrs. Jefferson’s extensive and adept knowledge of Hampton will be invaluable to faculty and staff and to the university in delivering the #1 student experience in America to our students,” said Dr. Darrell K. Williams, Hampton University President.

In this role, Jefferson will assist President Williams in his day-to day engagement with both internal and external key university constituent groups. Additionally, Jefferson will assist the President in addressing priorities related to advancing Hampton University as a world class university that delivers the best student experience in the United States.

Jefferson returns to her ‘Home by the Sea’ from Old Dominion University’s Office of Alumni Relations. Since January 2016, she served as the chief administrator and strategist for the Old Dominion University Alumni Association and Office of Alumni Relations, providing leadership for all alumni engagement. Jefferson was the leader in cultivating an alumni community of more than 163,000 living alumni throughout the United States and around the world. She played a strategic role in supporting ODU’s advancement and alumni relations efforts and served as a key member of the Vice President of University Advancement’s senior leadership team.

Jefferson previously served as Vice President for External Relations at Hampton University. Her responsibilities included the overall leadership and supervision of the Offices of Alumni Affairs, the Annual Fund, University Relations, Marketing & Communications, and she served on the President’s Administrative Council. Jefferson provided day-to-day and strategic management of alumni philanthropy and fundraising, alumni engagement, the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc.’s Board of Directors, University communications and brand management, media and public relations, and special events.

While at Hampton University, Jefferson also served as Associate Vice President for Development, Assistant Vice President for Development, Director of University Relations, and Director of Student Activities. She has also held the position of Director of Development at North Carolina State University.

Jefferson has also been a member of the Virginia Peninsula YMCA Board of Directors in addition to the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities State Board of Directors, the An Achievable Dream, Inc. Board of Directors, and Relay for Life Virginia Peninsula Executive Committee.

A native of Newport News, VA, Jefferson is a 1986 graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Mass Media Arts. She and her husband, Ronnie, have two daughters, Kayla and Christina.

#HU#

HAMPTON, VA (SEPT. 12, 2022)—Hampton University announced today that it has received a $200,747 grant from the Amateur Radio Digital Communications Foundation. This private foundation supports amateur radio and digital communication science and technology. Funding received will be used to establish scholarship funding to support for students majoring in STEM-related fields who may experience a gap in funding, who needs tuition assistance, or who may have a financial need.  

“The focus of this investment is to provide academic support for students studying in STEM areas and have an unmet need. This funding is incredible and supports the university’s vision of delivering the number student experience in America. This funding is appreciated and we look forward to building a long-term relationship that provides stellar support to our amazing students,” said Darrell K. Williams, Hampton University President.  

The Amateur Radio Digital Communications Foundation has a preference be given to students enrolled in electrical engineering and/or computer engineering study areas. Mr. Eugene Marshall, Hampton University’s Director of Athletics and involved in cultivating this scholarship opportunity, said, “We appreciate the generosity of the foundation in assisting to cultivate the next generation of highly trained leaders in sought-after fields. We are anxious to begin work with the foundation’s leaders to introduce them to our students and begin the exciting work of growing future STEM-professionals.”  

For more information, contact the Office of University Relations at 757.727.5000. 

About the Amateur Radio Digital Communications Foundation 
Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC)?is a California-based foundation with roots in amateur radio and the technology of internet communication. Our mission is to support, promote, and enhance digital communication and broader communication science and technology, to promote amateur radio, scientific research, experimentation, education, development, open access, and innovation in information and communication technology. 

About Hampton University 
Hampton University is a comprehensive institution of higher education, dedicated to the promotion of learning, building of character and preparation of promising students for positions of leadership and service. Its curriculum emphasis is scientific and professional with a strong liberal arts under girding. In carrying out its mission, the University requires that everything that it does be of the highest quality. A historically black institution, Hampton University is committed to multiculturalism. The University serves students from diverse national, cultural and economic backgrounds. Research and public service are integral parts of Hampton’s mission. In order to enhance scholarship and discovery, the faculty is engaged in writing, research, and grantsmanship. In achieving its mission, Hampton University offers exemplary programs and opportunities which enable students, faculty and staff to grow, develop and contribute to our society in a productive and useful manner.  Visit www.hamptonu.edu for more information.  

#HU#