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Hampton, VA (June 22, 2023) – In a remarkable display of leadership, Hampton University has experienced an unprecedented surge in enrollment, deepening its position as a premier destination for aspiring students. This Fall, the university will welcome a freshman class of 1,292* students – a 39% increase from the 2022-2023 academic year.

This achievement stands as a testament to the transformative power of a revitalized commitment to student success and urgency in execution. President Williams has rewritten the narrative of transitions in leadership in higher education. Under his stewardship, Hampton has experienced an energizing hope and heightened performance. His strategic emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, and delivering the #1 student experience in America has been pivotal in attracting an influx of talented students seeking an exceptional collegiate experience.

May 1 marked National College Decision Day, commonly regarded as the deadline for prospective students to formally accept offers of admission and send in enrollment deposits.

Hampton saw students commit earlier and at a historic rate than ever before. University Dean of Admissions, Angela Nixon Boyd, said, “Our goal was 1,200 [incoming students]. We surpassed the goal and have now had to waitlist students.” Qualified applicants who would have otherwise received an acceptance letter are now being held on a waitlist. If an admitted student changes their mind, the admissions team will refer to the waitlist on a first come, first served basis to fill any openings for the upcoming school year. The waitlist currently sits at a hefty 1,152*.

Admitted students took to social media to announce their college decision, sharing unique videos and photos in a viral storm that lasted days and caused engagement to skyrocket a whopping 351%. The University continues to see an upward trend in engagement from committed students and the high schools and organizations to which they belong.

Incoming students aren’t the only ones impressed; current students have expressed their approval of the Williams administration. Retention rates from Fall to Spring semester held strong with freshmen at 96% and continuing students at 93%. – a promising indicator of a booming campus experience for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Hampton’s alumni base has been a conduit for the delivery of the President’s mission. The National Hampton Alumni Association worked closely with the Office of Admissions to deepen student recruitment efforts, representing the University at events across the country that resulted in an uptick of committed students in several states, namely, Florida, Texas, and California. President Williams and First Lady Myra Richardson Williams prioritized efforts to establish a genuine camaraderie with alumni chapters as they traveled to personally share the Hampton story. “The energy that he and his wife bring to the University has certainly permeated throughout the country,” Dean Boyd shared.

As news of this achievement travels in academia and military circles alike, it has proven President Williams’ strength, candor, and esteem – earning both admiration and accolades nationwide.

For more information, visit: https://home.hamptonu.edu/admissions/

*as of June 14, 2023

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New Venture Capital Fund of Funds, The Historic Fund, to Support Historically Black Colleges and Universities 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

NEW YORK, NY – June 26, 2023 – Hampton University has been awarded $750,000 as one of the recipients of the inaugural $10M+ venture capital fund of funds, The Historic Fund, to support the endowments of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The fund is the brainchild of a group of prominent investors and operators in the venture capital ecosystem who recognize the importance of HBCUs and their role in promoting equity and inclusion in higher education. 

“An endowed university is not only an institution of learning but a beacon of endurance and limitless possibilities. It grants us the flexibility to adapt to emerging challenges, seize new opportunities, and invest in the long-term sustainability of our institution,” said Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams. “We are grateful to have the support of this special venture capital fund. To be in the inaugural cohort of The Historic Fund is an honor. It allows us to foster an environment of intellectual curiosity, empowering students to become globally astute leaders of influence. The significance of a robust endowment cannot be overstated.” 

The Historic Fund is a unique philanthropic initiative that invites selected HBCUs to be limited partners without investing their own assets. Instead, the fund raised capital from partners of the participating funds: Acrew Capital, B Capital, Cowboy Ventures, First Round Capital, FirstMark Capital, Foundry, General Catalyst, Spark Capital, and Union Square Ventures. The fund will also support a variety of under-represented fund managers via its stake in First Close Partners, a venture fund with the mission of making venture capital more inclusive that invests in funds led by underrepresented managers. The schools will function as traditional limited partners in a venture capital fund, and will be free to use the returns as they wish. 

The goal of the fund of funds is not only to bolster the endowments of HBCUs, but also to foster connectivity between these institutions and the broader venture capital community. Historically, opportunities in venture capital, both for funding and for employment, have been concentrated among graduates of a small number of universities. The Historic Fund hopes to leverage its position at the intersection of the HBCU community and the venture capital community to develop programming that will expand opportunities for students curious about entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as support administrations exploring alternative asset class strategies with their endowments.  

“As we continue to combat the racial inequities that Black students face, The Historic Fund aims to relieve the disproportionate financial pressure on Black families, while also providing essential funding for research and innovation at each of these institutions,” said Ken Chenault, chairman and a managing director of the venture capital firm General Catalyst, and the former chairman and CEO of American Express. 

The inaugural cohort of HBCU partners will be Benedict College, Bennett College, Fisk University, Florida A&M University, Hampton University, Morehouse College, Virginia State University, Virginia Union University, and Xavier University of Louisiana.  

“This partnership is a tremendous asset to helping secure the bright future of Virginia State University. It will bolster our endowments without a tremendous risk to our limited resources,” said Robert L. Turner, Jr. Esq, Executive Director of Virginia State University’s Foundation Board. “Acquiring and distributing these financial resources places VSU in a financial arena that has not traditionally been a part of our financial repertoire.” 

At the helm of this effort is a group of esteemed professionals in the innovation ecosystem who are passionate about improving access and equity in the world of venture capital. The initiative has benefited from the guidance and support of Dr. Regina Benjamin, a founding partner of First Close Partners and former Surgeon General of the United States; Ken Chenault, Chairman and Managing Director at General Catalyst; Josh Kopelman, Managing Partner at First Round Capital and founding partner of First Close Partners; Megan Maloney, Managing Partner at Dria Ventures; Samson Mesele, Partner and General Counsel at Union Square Ventures; Ekwutozia Nwabuzor, Counsel at Lowenstein Sandler; Adanma Raymond, the fund’s Executive Director; and Ed Zimmerman, Tech Group Chair at Lowenstein Sandler and founding partner of First Close Partners.  

Notable partners and supporters of The Historic Fund include Lowenstein Sandler, The Philadelphia Foundation, Aduro Advisors, Passthrough, and the Student Freedom Initiative. 

For more information on The Historic Fund, please visit www.historicfund.org, or contact Executive Director Adanma Raymond at adanma@historicfund.org 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 28, 2023

Matt Shank, President
shank@vfic.org

(Richmond, Virginia – June 28, 2023) – Hampton University, an HBCU located in Hampton, Virginia, officially became the seventeenth member of the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC) on June 3, 2023. Hampton University is a dynamic, progressive institution of higher education, providing a broad range of technical, liberal arts, and graduate degree programs. In addition to being one of the top historically Black universities in the world, Hampton University is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators, representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations.
This new affiliation is the result of a discussion between Matthew Shank, Ph.D., president of the VFIC, and LTG (ret) Darrell K. Williams, president of Hampton University. The VFIC extended an invitation to Hampton University to join the consortium, and the Foundation’s leadership unanimously approved the measure at its annual meeting in early June. VFIC board members recognize the aligned missions of Hampton University and the other sixteen schools in the consortium: to teach a broadly pragmatic liberal arts and sciences education in environments that value and encourage ethical leadership and responsible citizenship.
“Our priorities align closely with the VFIC’s mission, which is to provide a top-quality and affordable education as we prepare tomorrow’s global leaders,” says LTG (ret) Darrell K. Williams, the thirteenth president of Hampton University. “Virginia’s private colleges and universities offer a unique academic experience and are critical to the creation of a diverse and inclusive workforce.”
Hampton University was founded on April 1, 1868, as Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute by Brigadier General Samuel Armstrong, Superintendent of the Freedmen’s Bureau of the Ninth District of Virginia. Symbolized by the historical Emancipation Oak, the school’s mission emphasized the lasting promise of education for all, even in the face of adversity. Today, Hampton University is engaged in “Elevating Hampton Excellence,” a 2023-2033 strategic plan that aims to elevate academic excellence, increase research and innovation, improve operations and infrastructure, and increase financial sustainability.
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. Faculty, staff, and students provide leadership and service to the University, as well as the global community. In achieving The Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges
901 East Byrd Street, Suite 1625 804.288.6609 Richmond, VA 23219 www.vfic.org its mission, Hampton University offers exemplary programs and opportunities that enable students,
faculty, and staff to grow, develop, and contribute to our society in a productive and useful manner.
“The entire VFIC family is honored to welcome President Darrell Williams and Hampton University into our excellent consortium,” says Nancy Agee, CEO of Carilion Clinic and chair of the VFIC. “The VFIC will certainly benefit from adding such an outstanding university to our ranks and Hampton will also gain from collaborating with our other sixteen leading independent colleges and universities in Virginia. We look forward to establishing a strong and longstanding partnership with Hampton University.”
For more information, please contact Matt Shank, Ph.D., president of the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges. You can reach him at shank@vfic.org.
About the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges
Established in 1952, the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC) aims to advance the distinctive values and strengths of the seventeen colleges across Virginia that make up our consortium. We accomplish this goal by generating financial support for our schools – more than $170 million since our inception. Leveraging those resources, we establish and administer a range of programs that help our schools attract the best and brightest, create a vibrant and rigorous educational experience, prepare students for a fulfilling career, and cultivate responsible leaders for the communities they call home.
The following seventeen schools make up our consortium: Bridgewater College, Emory & Henry College, Hampden-Sydney College, Hampton University, Hollins University, Mary Baldwin University, Marymount University, Randolph College, Randolph-Macon College, Roanoke College, Shenandoah University, Sweet Briar College, University of Lynchburg, University of Richmond, Virginia Union University, Virginia Wesleyan University, and Washington and Lee University. These schools educate nearly 30,000 students, 24,000 of whom are undergraduates. Of the fifteen chapters of Phi Beta Kappa in Virginia, nine reside on VFIC campuses. Thirty percent of undergraduates from VFIC schools graduate with a
STEM-H degree.
VFIC schools are racially, culturally, and economically diverse. According to current research from the State Council of Higher Education in Virginia, 42 percent of VFIC undergraduates come from minority backgrounds. Thirty percent of undergraduates receive a PELL Grant. The mean income for these students, depending on the school, ranges from $29,000 to $38,000/annually. With enrollments between 350 and 3,500 students, our schools teach a broadly pragmatic liberal arts and sciences
education in environments that value and encourage ethical leadership and responsible citizenship.

For more information on the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges, visit: https://www.vfic.org/news-publications/hampton-university-welcome-2023/ [vfic.org]

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Hampton, VA (June 14, 2023) – Hampton University announced that it has been chosen to receive $65,000 in funding from the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, a program from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

This funding will support More Than Manicured Lawns: Hampton University’s Historically-Themed Landscape Plan.

“We are grateful to the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund for their support of our project, ‘More Than Manicured Lawns’ and our dedication to telling stories of African American achievement and resilience,” said President Darrell K. Williams. “This funding will allow us to further enhance and preserve the historical significance of our university’s landscape, ensuring that future generations can experience and appreciate the rich heritage it represents.”

“The Action Fund’s investment in and celebration of 40 historic African American places illustrates our belief that historic preservation plays an important role in American society,” said Brent Leggs, executive director, African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund and senior vice president, National Trust for Historic Preservation. “The history embodied in these places is emblematic of generational aspirations for freedom, the pursuit of education, a need for beauty and architecture, and joys of social life and community bonds. That’s why the Action Fund believes all Americans must see themselves and our shared history in this year’s grantee list if we are to create a culturally conscious nation.”

Hampton University is one of 40 sites to receive a total of $3.8 million in grant funding to advance ongoing preservation activities for historic places such as sites, museums, and landscapes that represent African American cultural heritage. With more than $91 million in funding, the Action Fund is the largest U.S. resource dedicated to the preservation of African American historic places.

Since 2017, the Action Fund has received an unprecedented total of 5,638 funding proposals requesting $655 million, and since 2018, the Action Fund has supported 242 grantee projects through its investment of $20M.

To learn more about this program and this year’s grant recipients, visit savingplaces.org/actionfund.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

HAMPTON, Va. — The Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute (HUPTI) hosted a grand opening to reveal its new patient garden, Emma’s Sensory Garden that was named for a former patient, Emma Lednick. The event was attended by about 100 people, including HUPTI staff, patients, former patients and other members of the community.  

“This has been in the works for a few months now and it’s been something I have thought about over the last three years,” said Tiffany Rodgers, Director of Marketing at HUPTI. “I really believe and know the importance of mindfulness, stillness and nature, and how they can be used to fuel your mind, body and soul. So, I wanted patients and staff to have an area they can go to fill their own cups.” 

Lednick is a patient of Dr. Tyvin Rich, one of the radiation oncologists at HUPTI. Her son, Shawn Lednick, is the president of Proton Systems, one of the institute’s primary vendors since its inception. He also constructed the raised plant beds featured in Emma’s Sensory Garden.  

“I began to think about a patient named Emma that has been treated here since 2012 and just got emotionally driven to turn the garden space into something, as Emma happens to be my mother,” Shawn Lednick said. “She is a part of this center and she is living today because of the hope and the care that Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute has given her.” 

Wendy Iles, a Master Gardener in Hampton Roads, also contributed her time and expertise to the garden for several weeks.  “We came together over email, initially, and then started to develop the plan,” said Iles. “It has been a joyful experience to be able to work with them, see this plan come to fruition and meet all of their goals.” 

Emma’s Sensory Garden is open to HUPTI patients and staff during business hours. 

_________________________________________  

About Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute (HUPTI)  

The Hampton University Proton Therapy Institute (HUPTI), established in 2010, has successfully helped fight the cancers of more than 4,000 patients from across the globe. Located in Hampton, Virginia, HUPTI is the largest standalone proton treatment center in the country, and at its inception, was the eighth such center in the United States.   

Proton therapy is universally accepted as a viable and effective method to treat many forms of cancer—one of the top killers in Virginia. It is a noninvasive option that precisely targets the tumor, sparing healthy tissue. At HUPTI, patients receive outpatient treatment in about 30 minutes, which means no hospital stays, allowing them to maintain their current lifestyle. The center treats several types of cancer, including breast, lung, prostate, head & neck, ocular, brain & spine, gastrointestinal and pediatric tumors.  

Media Contact:  

Lourdes Hernandez  

Lourdes.Hernandez@hamptonproton.org  

 

The Concert Will be a Celebration of Community, Culture, and Black Music Month Hosted by the President and First Lady of the United States

Hampton, VA., (June 13, 2023) – The Hampton University Concert Choir, under the dynamic leadership of Director Omar Dickenson, has been invited to perform at the White House for a special Juneteenth Concert on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. This commemorative event will take place during Black Music Month where the Biden-Harris Administration will uplift American art forms that sing to the soul of the American experience.

University President Darrell K. Williams shared his excitement for the invitation, “We are absolutely thrilled and proud to have the Hampton University Concert Choir represent our institution at the White House for this remarkable Juneteenth Concert. This invitation speaks volumes about the immense talent and unwavering dedication of our choir members, as well as the incredible leadership of Director Omar Dickenson. I extend my appreciation to the President and First Lady for hosting this extraordinary event. The Hampton University Concert Choir’s performance will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on this momentous occasion, showcasing the talent, passion, and artistry that epitomize our university’s commitment to excellence.”

Renowned for their powerful voices and stage presence, the Hampton University Concert Choir has maintained a repertoire of choral masterworks from some of the most prolific American composers. The Choir has become distinguished for performing the innovative compositions of R. Nathaniel Dett, Noah F. Ryder, Roland M. Carter, and Nathan Carter. The Choir also performs the outstanding work of contemporary composers and arrangers such as Marques L.A. Garrett, Stacey V. Gibbs, and B. E. Boykin.

“I am immensely honored and filled with gratitude for the incredible opportunity for the Hampton University Concert Choir to perform at the White House for this special Juneteenth Concert. It is a profound privilege to showcase the talent, passion, and artistry of our exceptional choir members on such a historic stage. University Choir Director Omar Dickenson shared his sentiment regarding the opportunity: ‘This performance not only represents a significant milestone in our journey but also symbolizes the power of music to bring people together, celebrate our shared culture, and honor the rich contributions of the Black community. We are deeply thankful to the President and First Lady for their recognition of the importance of Juneteenth and Black Music Month. We eagerly anticipate delivering a soul-stirring and unforgettable performance that will resonate with audiences, inspire unity, and leave a lasting impact on this momentous occasion.’

They will take to the historic White House stage tonight at 7 p.m., captivating audiences nationwide. This significant invitation shines light on their well-established reputation as ambassadors of excellence in choral music.

This event is supported by (in alphabetical order): National Endowment for the Arts, National Endowment for the Humanities, Pernod Ricard USA, STARZ #TaketheLead Initiative and The Recording Academy will feature:

Audra McDonald

Broadway Inspirational Voices

Cliff “Method Man” Smith

Colman Domingo

Fisk Jubilee Singers

Hampton University Concert Choir

Jennifer Hudson

Ledisi

Maverick City Music

Morgan State University Marching Band – The Magnificent Marching Machine

Nicco Annan

Patina Miller

Step Afrika!

Tennessee State University Marching Band – Aristocrat of Bands

“The President’s Own” United States Marine Band

The concert will be livestreamed at 7pm tonight.

To view the celebration, visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/live/

To learn more about the White House Juneteenth celebration, visit: Black Music Month [whitehouse.gov]

New Program Will Prepare Scholars and Faith Leaders to Shepherd Diverse Communities in an Interconnected World   

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton, Va., (June 12, 2023) – Honoring the rich tapestry of faith, family, and excellence, Hampton University announced the establishment of the School of Religion on President’s Night at the time-honored Hampton University Ministers’ Conference, signifying a groundbreaking epoch in the history of the institution and the conference. University Chaplain and HUMC Executive Director Rev. Dr. Debra L. Haggins shared the news in a moving video with remarks from Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams.

As the School of Religion takes its first steps, the University lays the foundation with over 100 years of wisdom from its relationship with the Ministers’ Conference. “Given that we’ve hosted the minister’s conference for over a century – in terms of timing, I think this is long overdue,” said President Williams. “Although we are not a religious institution, it is certainly a part of our fabric and our foundation. We see the development of the School of Religion as a natural progression. It’s not revolutionary. It is, in fact, evolutionary.”

The School of Religion’s inception will not just transform the academic landscape, but also broaden the University’s wingspan to reach a global community of leaders compelled to dive deep on issues of race, class, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, religious tradition, and ideology. Special topics including the role of faith and activism, preaching to a community of first-generation Christians, and addressing the unique needs of the Black community will be the locomotives that drive the discussion forward, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the contemporary Christian experience.

“At this very challenging time in our nation’s history, especially with some of the divisiveness that we can see at both the societal and the political level, we think that broader thinking about these areas of religion is extraordinarily important,” said President Williams.

Designed to equip and refine world-class leaders, the School of Religion will offer degrees at the Associate, Bachelor, and Master levels as well as the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Theology and Community Engagement and Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) in Pastoral Leadership and Congregational Development with a rigorous curriculum centered on Christian approaches that compel leaders to modernize the interpretation of scripture, all while embracing longstanding hermeneutical principles.

The School of Religion at Hampton University will serve as a beacon of inspiration for students, faculty, and communities alike. By fostering an environment where individuals can critically examine and celebrate their faith, Hampton University emboldens scholars to be compassionate leaders who are equipped to address the spiritual needs of diverse communities in an interconnected world.

Hampton University welcomes partners, scholars, and students from all backgrounds to join them on this transformative journey of knowledge, understanding, and spiritual growth.

For more information on Hampton University School of Religion, visit here.

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HU VP for Institutional Effectiveness and Strategic Planning Scores National Rank for His Work as Mayor of Newport News, VA.

Hampton, Va. (June 5, 2023) – Hampton University VP for Institutional Effectiveness and Strategic Planning, Phillip Jones, has been named a NewDEAL leader for his work as Mayor of Newport News. He joins the ranks of national leaders including U.S. Delaware Senator Chris Coons, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and former Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams.

NewDEAL Leaders are pro-growth elected officials championing ideas to grow the economy, expand opportunity for all, and improve government operations. Jones was selected as one of 22 leaders from across the U.S. recognized for their efforts and vision.

Jones is currently serving as the 27th Mayor of Newport News, Virginia, where his eye is set on building the city to become an All-American hotspot by modernizing processes, leveraging partnerships, and elevating the city’s narrative on a national scale. Having a robust background in both the public and private sectors, Jones brings a wealth of experience to the mayoral seat. Before taking office, he led troops to support peacekeeping and security cooperation missions as a Marine Corps infantry officer. A leader of leaders, he steered end-to-end strategy for Fortune 500 companies, municipalities, and nonprofits, as a management consultant for a global firm.

Holding a pivotal role at the university, he drives the execution of HU’s strategic plan and supports institutional growth and efficiency goals.

In the wake of 9/11, Jones accepted a nomination to the United States Naval Academy, where he graduated with merit with a B.S. in History. He earned an M.S. in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School and an M.B.A. from the Harvard Business School – where he served as a Tillman Scholar and Co-President of the Veterans Club.

For more information on the NewDeal, visit:  here.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton, VA (June 2, 2023) – Hampton University mourns the loss of April R. Haston Butts ‘02 who passed away on June 1, 2023, while in hospice care. Haston Butts was the devoted wife of Calvin L. Butts, Jr. ’02, a dedicated University Trustee and an esteemed alum of the Hampton University Class of 2002, Onyx V.

Haston Butts, a native of Clifton, Virginia, earned her B.S. degree in business management summa cum laude from Hampton University. The mother of three, she served as Chief Financial Officer of CB3 Holdings, an angel investment group that helps build, develop, and leave generational wealth through investing and connects entrepreneurs to resources and networks that enhance their company’s goals and objectives. She provided guidance and expertise to the couple’s portfolio of family businesses which includes ownership of several successful healthcare, medical education, consulting, and marketing agencies.

Haston Butts was an active member of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., a national organization of mothers with children ages 2 – 19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty. Her dedication to improving access to opportunities for African-American children is also reflected in her support of the students at her alma mater. She, along with Trustee Butts, generously supported and was deeply committed to the success of the programs and initiatives at her ‘Home by the Sea’ for many years.

The Butts were college sweethearts, having met on campus freshman year.

“Hampton University is grateful for the lasting impact that Mrs. Haston Butts and her family have had on the university,” said President Darrell K. Williams. “Her unwavering dedication to scholarship and higher education has touched the lives of countless individuals within the Hampton University family and beyond. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the Butts family during this difficult time. Their loss will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved April. We honor her memory, her legacy, and the profound impact she has had on Hampton University.”

The family encourages frequent and early breast cancer screenings as well as your support of programs and initiatives that provide greater access to timely screening and diagnostic services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the April Haston Butts Endowed Scholarship which can be made here: http://tinyurl.com/aprilhbutts

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton, Va. (June 2, 2023) – Peanuts Worldwide fulfills the second of two gifts under “The Armstrong Project” – an initiative benefitting students at Hampton University. The project, named in honor of Charles Schulz’ iconic character, Franklin Armstrong, includes an annual scholarship for students studying arts, communications, animation, or entertainment. 

To enhance the program experience, The Armstrong Project offers mentorship and internship opportunities for students with individuals and companies in entertainment fields such as animation, film, and television.

“We are grateful to Peanuts Worldwide LLC for its investment in our students and other HBCUs involved in this initiative,” said Hampton University Chancellor and Provost Dr. JoAnn Haysbert. “Their commitment to renew will help ensure our students continue to receive a world-class education.”

Cartoonist Robb Armstrong, a longtime friend and colleague of Charles Schulz and the inspiration for Franklin’s last name, has been a consistent source of support throughout the creation of this important program and applauds the launch of The Armstrong Project.  “I’m very excited for the young aspiring artists [at Hampton University] who may have their lives changed by Peanuts, just as my life was changed by the inspiration and mentorship of Charles Schulz,” Armstrong said. “Sparky (Schulz) was a thoughtful and generous man who took seriously the hopes and dreams of young people. It is my hope that he would be thrilled by the potential of The Armstrong Project to help young people fulfill their ambitions.”

The character of Franklin emerged from a correspondence between Charles Schulz and a California schoolteacher named Harriet Glickman. Glickman wrote to Schulz after the assassination of Martin Luther King, suggesting that the introduction of Black characters into the comic strip could help change the “vast sea of misunderstanding, fear, hate and violence.” After much introspect and consideration, Schulz felt this was a step he could take authentically and introduced Franklin in the summer of 1968, making history in the process.

“It is incredibly moving to me that The Armstrong Project is intended to create positive change in the lives of young Black animators and artists, just as the character of Franklin did so many years ago,” said Jean Schulz, widow of Charles Schulz.

ABOUT THE ARMSTRONG PROJECT

As an enhanced scholarship program, The Armstrong Project will also ensure mentorship and internship opportunities for the students with individuals and companies in entertainment fields such as animation, film, and television.

For more information, visit:  https://www.peanuts.com/the-armstrong-project

ABOUT THE TAKE CARE WITH PEANUTS INITIATIVE

With the Peanuts Gang leading by (often humorous!) example, Take Care with Peanuts inspires and motivates action through online messages, kid-friendly animated videos, charitable opportunities, special curricula, social media engagement, pop-up experiences, and much more—reminding us to press ‘Pause’ and appreciate ourselves, those around us, and this place we call home.

For more information visit:  https://www.peanuts.com/take-care/about

ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

Rich in history, steeped in tradition, Hampton University is a dynamic, progressive institution of higher education, providing a broad range of technical, liberal arts, and graduate degree programs. In addition to being one of the top historically Black universities in the world, Hampton University is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators, representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations that is committed to Delivering the #1 Student Experience in America.

For more information, visit:  https://home.hamptonu.edu/

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Hampton Positions Academic Excellence Front and Center as an Institutional Standard

Hampton, Va. (May 31, 2023) – Hampton University pledged over $400,000 in tuition assistance to scholars who have indicated their intent to enroll as Hamptonians in the fall.

University President Darrell K. Williams made the announcement at the 200+ Scholars Breakfast held at the Hampton Roads Convention Center.  The annual event, sponsored by the Hampton Roads Committee of 200+ Men, honors African-American high school males from area public and private schools who are graduating with a 3.0 or better GPA. 

“I am pleased to recognize the following outstanding scholars who have indicated their intent to enroll at Hampton University for the 2023-2024 academic year,” President Williams told the audience. The University awarded each recipient a $3000 grant for the 2023-2024 academic year and a four-year renewable merit scholarship:

• Nicola Baker, Xavier Wallace and Anthony Artis will receive $7500 for a total of $33,000.
• Cody Jackson, Jordan Paschal, and Kameron Jackson will receive $10,000 for a total of $43,000.
• Clarence Bostic will receive $15,000 for a total of $63,000.
• Darren Williams will receive $20,000 for a total of $83,000.
• Michael Dwayne Anderson will receive $15,000, room scholarship, and a $2000 book stipend for a total of $99,368.

Hampton is projected to increase overall enrollment next year between 3500 to 3700. The university launched the 2023-2033 strategic plan, “Elevating Hampton Excellence,” and among its goal is to increase scholarship opportunities for students and develop innovative 21^st-century leaders of character for our community, our nation and our world.

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For more on the Hampton University 2023-2033 Strategic Plan information, visit: here

For more information on Hampton Roads Committee of 200+ Men, visit:  here

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton, Va. (May 31, 2023) – Hampton University ranks in the top 7.7% of universities across the world and sits among the top six Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), according to the 2023 edition of Global 2000 list by the Center for World University Rankings (CWUR), the largest academic ranking of global universities.

The (CWUR) uses several outcome-based indicators grouped into four areas to rank the world universities: Education based on the academic success of a university’s alumni; employability based on the professional success of a university’s alumni; Faculty measured by the number who have received top academic distinctions; and research output that is measured by the number of high-cited research articles and publications.

“While Hampton University is no stranger to exceptional public rankings,” said President Darrell K. Williams, “this recognition reflects the collective efforts of our incredible community of students, alumni, faculty, and staff whose consistent feedback and engagement keeps us aiming higher.”

About the Center for World University Rankings

The Center for World University Rankings (CWUR) is a leading consulting organization providing policy advice, strategic insights, and consulting services to governments and universities to improve educational and research outcomes. CWUR publishes authoritative global university rankings, known for objectivity, transparency, and consistency, which are trusted by students, academics, university administrators, and governments from around the world. For more information, visit: here.

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