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OPINION: Leveling Up: Sustained Philanthropy and Access to Capital Markets Make HBCUs and our Nation Stronger  

By: Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams 

On behalf of Hampton University, I would like to offer my heartiest congratulations to President Helene Gayle, the Board of Trustees, and the entire Spelman College family on the recent historic $100 million donation, the largest ever gift to a historically Black college and university (HBCU) from billionaire couple Ronda Stryker and her husband, William Johnston. Stryker, the granddaughter of the founder of medical device maker Stryker Corp., and Johnson, the chairman of money management firm Greenleaf Trust, helped the institution make history, twice: celebrating 100 years of the institution’s official naming and forging a path for Spelman to become “need-blind,” referring to an admissions policy that does not consider an applicant’s financial status when deciding whether to accept them.  

As a fellow institution in the community of 102 accredited Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), we share their pride in this achievement. It inspires hope in the possibilities when philanthropy meets opportunity. This historic gift is a game-changing gesture for Spelman and our nation’s HBCUs. A gesture of this magnitude is an investment in the long-term financial sustainability of critical higher education institutions in America. This gift, hopefully, signals an elevated focus on lifting HBCUs to even greater heights and unlocking upward mobility for its graduates.  

The donation is a testament to the power of philanthropy and the impact it can have on higher education. Philanthropy is an expression of values and a way of creating a legacy for future generations. It helps foster innovation, social equity, and community empowerment. As demonstrated powerfully by this generous gift to Spelman, philanthropy should be done with care, transparency, and humility. It should also be informed by research, evidence, and feedback from the beneficiaries and stakeholders.

The systemic, chronic underfunding of HBCUs is well-documented, and thankfully, we have witnessed several private philanthropic and federal funding efforts begin to address the gap. In 2019, McKenzie Scott signed the Giving Pledge, a nonbinding promise billionaires make to donate the majority of their wealth and donated $400 million to 17 HBCUs. In December 2020, Hampton University received $30 million to invest in urgent capital needs, our institutional endowment, and scholarships. Earlier this month, the Lilly Endowment, Inc. announced a $100 million gift to the United Negro College Fund, representing “the largest single unrestricted gift to the organization since its founding 80 years ago.” Further, and beyond mere philanthropy, the Biden administration awarded a consortium of HBCUs, led by Howard University, the first University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), a $90 million grant. We applaud these efforts and encourage America to level up to the proportion of its wealth. We challenge captains of industry and entrepreneurship to donate more robustly to our HBCUs and to create more game-changing opportunities to stabilize campuses and the surrounding communities where they were built.

Our HBCUs have a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, and our contributions to academic and cultural diversity are invaluable. However, they continue to punch well above their weight classes regarding return on investment. HBCUs equip Black students from various socioeconomic backgrounds with the skills they need to secure jobs, start businesses, invent new technologies, and more. In fact, roughly 10% of African Americans who attend college attend HBCUs, yet HBCUs award 15% of all bachelor’s degrees and 25% of STEM degrees. Over 40% of Black engineers, 50% of Black doctors and lawyers, and nearly 80% of Black judges received either an undergraduate or advanced degree – and in many cases both – from these exceptional schools.

Philanthropy can be a powerful force for good, but it requires responsibility, reflection, and sustained actions. Fostering a culture of philanthropy is instrumental in leveling up HBCUs, from addressing financial challenges and fostering academic excellence to supporting students and contributing to the overall growth and impact of these vital institutions. It is a powerful means of securing a brighter future for both the institutions and the diverse students they serve.

We all play a part in ensuring the next generation’s success and our institutions’ sustainability. Leveling up our HBCUs makes for a more robust academic landscape by producing successful graduates, fostering social and economic mobility, contributing to community development, preserving culturing heritage, and making notable contributions to research and innovation. Recognizing and supporting these institutions is essential to sustaining their positive impact on individuals and society. Leveling up our HBCUs is a step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable academic landscape that benefits us all.

Hampton, Va. (January 11, 2024) –The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Hampton University a $4.9M grant to establish an interdisciplinary climate science degree program, embedded in a National Center for Climate Modeling Research, and to propel the university to R2 status.

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s press release, the grants are being provided under the Research and Development Infrastructure (RDI) program and the Postsecondary Student Success Grant (PSSG) program. The RDI program provides funds to HBCUs, TCCUs, and MSIs to transform their research infrastructure, including strengthening research productivity, faculty expertise, physical infrastructure, and partnerships leading to increases in external funding. The PSSG program aims to equitably improve postsecondary student outcomes, including retention, transfer, credit accumulation, and completion, by leveraging data and implementing, scaling, and rigorously evaluating evidence-based approaches.

“The Biden-Harris Administration recognizes the urgency of this moment in higher education and that creating opportunities for students of color and other underserved students to succeed in today’s most cutting-edge fields has never mattered more,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in a press release.

This transformative funding is designated to propel Hampton University to R2 status through the establishment of an innovative interdisciplinary climate science degree program.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant from the U.S. Department of Education, enabling us to make significant strides in climate science education and research,” said HU President Darrell K. Williams. “This funding will empower us to establish a world-class program that integrates diverse perspectives and disciplines to address the challenges posed by climate change. While aligning with our strategic plan and mission of providing innovative doctoral programs in the STEM field, fostering the next generation of leaders in climate research.”

The Interdisciplinary Climate Science Degree Program will bring together experts from various fields, fostering collaboration between meteorologists, environmental scientists, data analysts, and more. Students enrolled in the program will gain hands-on experience through the National Center for Climate Modeling Research, contributing to cutting-edge research and addressing pressing climate issues.

“I am ecstatic to have received federal funding to build the research infrastructure necessary to support an interdisciplinary climate sciences doctoral program,” said Neelam Azad, Ph.D., vice president for Research and one of the senior administrative personnel on the grant. “This will build competency in a field of study that directly impacts not just our lives but of future generations as well, while broadening participation of individuals who have been historically marginalized in the STEM fields.”

The principal investigator (PI) on the project is William Moore, Ph.D., and the co-PIs are Ruben Delgado, Ph.D. and Stephen Guimond, Ph.D. from the Department of Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences, along with co-PI Jeanette Davis, Ph.D., from the Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences, all within the School of Science.

 “Hampton has long been a renowned leader in the field of climate research, since launching satellites to study the weather in the early 2000’s,” said Isi Ero-Johnson, Ph.D., dean, School of Science. “This DOE grant will further solidify Hampton as a premier institution in atmospheric and environmental sciences with the development of the National Center for Climate Modeling Research.”  

Hampton, Va. (January 11, 2024) – The Hampton University Department of Psychology is proud to announce its Inaugural Black Decolonial Psychology Conference, “Decolonizing, Liberating and Healing the Black Pyche-Soul,” January 26-27. The conference is open to the public.

This groundbreaking event aims to foster meaningful discussions, research, and in-vivo exploration within the realm of decolonial psychology, specifically centered around the experiences and perspectives of the Black community.

“We are excited to host the first Black Decolonial Psychology Conference, providing a platform for scholars, practitioners, and students to come together and explore innovative approaches to understanding and addressing mental health within the Black community,” said O’Shan Gadsden, Ph.D., chair, HU Department of Psychology.

The two-day conference kicks off with a meet and greet, followed by an interactive workshop facilitated by Steven D. Kniffley, PsyD, senior associate dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine.

Other presenters include: Shena Young, PsyD, licensed psychologist, Yoruba healer-practitioner and embodied trauma expert; luncheon keynote speaker Ivory I. Toldson, Ph.D, national director of Education, Innovation and Research of the NAACP; Brianna Moore, PsyD, director, Forensic Services, Virginia Center for Behavioral Rehabilitation and a host of renowned scholars, and experts in the field of psychology, providing insights into the importance of decolonial-black centered approaches to understanding mental health, identity, and societal dynamics.

Attendees can expect engaging panel discussions, research presentations, and interactive workshops that delve into the intersectionality of Black experiences and psychology.

This inclusive gathering welcomes researchers, psychologists, students, and professionals passionate about advancing the understanding of psychology through a decolonial lens.

Registration is now open at Eventbrite.com.

“The HU Department of Psychology looks forward to fostering a dynamic and impactful dialogue and space of reflection that contributes to the advancement of decolonial psychology and healing,” said Gadsden.

By Dr. Kristie Norwood and Heather Nesle

December 31, 2023

The Virginian Pilot

The past few years, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, have underscored the necessity of addressing a wide array of health issues. Prominent among these is grief, which, if not properly managed, can significantly disrupt a student’s educational journey. This is particularly true for students from diverse backgrounds, who often face compounding challenges such as cultural stigmatization and lack of access to quality care.

Regrettably, people of color frequently bear the heaviest burden during public health emergencies, which could manifest as the loss of a loved one or the devastation of a home, leaving many wrestling with grief. Reports from the Mayo Clinic [mayoclinic.org] confirm that these communities are affected disproportionately during crises such as Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic. These crises, in combination with systemic challenges, can profoundly impact social mobility and the higher education aspirations of diverse youth.

According to an article from NBC News and The Hechinger Report [nbcnews.com], white students at public colleges are 150% more likely to graduate than Black students and 60% more likely than Latino students. This disparity is attributed to factors such as racial discrimination [cnn.com], high education costs and numerous external responsibilities, according to a new Lumina Foundation-Gallup 2023 State of Higher Education study [cnn.com].

In response to these challenges, it is crucial that higher education institutions recognize and address grief as a significant health issue. This requires providing comprehensive support to students, especially those from underserved communities, to ensure minimal disruption to their academic journey when adversity strikes.

A commendable initiative in this regard is the establishment of a student bereavement fund at Hampton University. Funded by a grant from the New York Life Foundation, this fund provides financial support for students who have experienced the death of a loved one. This crucial initiative addresses the mental and financial burden of bereavement, ensuring continuity in the students’ higher education pursuits.

Institutions of higher learning must prioritize offerings that assist students in coping with the emotional challenges that accompany grief. This includes workshops connecting students and faculty with grief experts, linking them to resources across campus, and providing a supportive space to express their feelings.

Moreover, grants facilitate the identification of students who might otherwise be overlooked, offering proactive, compassionate outreach and culturally competent care.

Effectively aiding students on their journey through grief necessitates a holistic and proactive approach from educational institutions. It’s crucial not to make assumptions about the adequacy of existing support systems and to recognize the common occurrence of delayed onset grief. The grieving process is intricate and can manifest long after the triggering event.

It’s also necessary to broaden the scope of grief and bereavement training beyond just campus mental health professionals. Such training should encompass faculty and staff across various departments, ensuring that everyone in the institution is prepared to assist students grappling with grief.

Additionally, it’s essential to carry out ongoing assessments, facilitate discussions, and normalize student and faculty experiences of grief. Such open dialogue can simplify the process of seeking help and navigating grief for those affected.

Lastly, the implementation of bereavement excusal policies offers needed flexibility and support during difficult times, enabling students to take the necessary time to process their grief without it adversely affecting their academic progress.

As a nation contending with disparities in health care and education, it is vital that we invest in resources and training related to grief and bereavement. This investment in “Total Student Care” will allow us to cultivate a more inclusive environment for our future leaders.

Grief is a long-term process that extends beyond the conclusion of a funeral. Recognizing it as a significant health issue is essential for helping students navigate this challenging life event without it negatively impacting their academic progress. The framework built by Hampton University and the New York Life Foundation serves as a promising model for other institutions seeking to support grieving students.

Dr. Kristie Norwood is the director of the Student Counseling Center at Hampton University. Heather Nesle is president of the New York Life Foundation, the charitable foundation created by New York Life Insurance Company.

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Graduating More African Americans Speech Pathologists and Audiologists than Any Other Program in the Country

Hampton, Va. (January 8, 2024) – Hampton University School of Science, Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders proudly announces the commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of its groundbreaking degree-granting program for African American speech pathologists and audiologists, on February 2, at 6pm in the McGrew Towers Conference Center on campus. The event is open to the public.

Established in 1954, this program has stood as a beacon of excellence and inclusion, making significant strides in the field, graduating more African American audiologists and speech pathologists than any other program in the country.

“We are thrilled to mark this historic milestone in our commitment to fostering diversity and excellence in speech pathology and audiology education,” said Jessica Sullivan, Ph.D, chair, Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders. “The 70th Anniversary Celebration is a testament to the dedication of our founder, Dr. Robert Screen, our faculty, the achievements of our alumni, and the lasting impact of Hampton University in shaping the future of this vital field.”

Katrina Miller, Ed.D. CCC-SLP, HU class of 1983, will serve as the keynote speaker. Miller’s commitment to communication empowerment spans more than 25 years and has improved the lives of countless patients, as well as the more than 300 novice speech-language pathologists that she has trained.

The event will bring together alumni, faculty, and esteemed guests to reflect on the program’s rich history and its impact on the profession, featuring alumni success stories, and a showcase of the program’s evolution over the years. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions, network, and witness the unveiling of a special commemorative exhibit highlighting the achievements of the program.

“We invite everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey to join us in celebrating 70 years of excellence, diversity, and progress in speech pathology and audiology education,” said Isi Ero-Tolliver, Ph.D., dean, School of Science. “Together, we honor the past, embrace the present, and look forward to continued milestone achievements of the Department of Communicative Sciences and Disorders in the future.”

To register for the event, please visit Eventbrite.com.

ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1868, Hampton University has been the Standard of Excellence in higher education for over 150 years. Rich in history and tradition, Hampton University is recognized as one of the top historically black colleges and universities in the world, and recently named the top private university in Virginia. Hampton provides a broad range of technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. HU is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations. Visit www.hamptonu.edu.

Media Inquiries: Sarita Scott, Office of University Relations, 757.727.5253 or sarita.scott@hamptonu.edu.

Hampton, Va. (November 29, 2023) – Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams, along with his wife, First Lady Myra Williams, demonstrate their commitment to the continued growth of Hampton University by generously donating $100,000 to Hampton for the second year in a row.

In conjunction with the recent National Day of Giving, the President and First Lady’s philanthropic gesture aims to support academic excellence, advance the University’s mission and spark the spirit of giving in others. 

“The First Lady and I are delighted to give back to our “Home by the Sea,” said HU President Williams. “We remain both personally and professionally dedicated to delivering the number one student experience in America. We hope this will inspire others to give.”

The funds will be allocated to:

• Grow the Darrell K. & Myra R. Williams Scholarship Fund, awarded annually to psychology students
• Support the renovation of the Mansion House, the oldest structure on campus
• Increase other philanthropic causes at the University

Ret. U.S. Army Gen. Williams has completed his first year and a half at the helm of Hampton and during that time has implemented a 10-year strategic plan, “Elevating Hampton Excellence,” completed phase one of a campus face-lift in which eight buildings were newly renovated, increased enrollment and boosted the morale of faculty, staff and students.

The President and First Lady are both esteemed alums of the University, both class of 1983, the first alumni couple to serve in this capacity. 

ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1868, Hampton University has been the Standard of Excellence in higher education for over 150 years. Rich in history and tradition, Hampton University is recognized as one of the top historically black colleges and universities in the world, and recently named the top private university in Virginia. Hampton provides a broad range of technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. HU is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations.

For more information, contact: Richelle Payne in the HU University Relations Office, at 757.727.5253.

Hampton Nation,

On Feb. 8, 2023, I humbly accepted the role of Director of Athletics at Hampton University, marking a significant milestone in my journey. My connection with Hampton goes beyond a mere professional commitment; it holds a special place in my heart, becoming integral to my personal and career narrative. 

Accepting the responsibility to lead Hampton’s athletic programs is an honor and a privilege. I hold immense respect and admiration for the institution, and the terms “rich legacy” and “new heights” signify my aspiration to build upon the existing foundation and propel the athletic programs to even greater accomplishments.

Approaching a year of service, I am excited to share the achievements and transformations we have accomplished within the Department of Athletics. Sharing our progress underscores what I hope you will see as my proactive and transparent approach to leadership. I believe in keeping the university community and stakeholders informed and fostering an environment of openness and inclusivity.  Hopefully this conveys my gratitude, honor, and enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the university’s legacy and guide its athletic programs toward a future marked by continued success and growth. 

Moving on to our developments and achievements over the past year: 

Click Here Read More

Hampton, Va (December 15, 2023):          Today, Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams released his first annual Philanthropy Report which captures the increase in transformative gifts, record-breaking engagement, and the institution’s expanded philanthropic landscape. The report reflects the university’s commitment to enhancing Hampton’s financial position and increasing operational excellence.

Because tuition does not cover all the expenses of a university, funding comes from sources beyond students’ tuition, room, and board each year. We benefit from the philanthropy of our alumni and partners in many ways, from covering financial aid and operational costs and subsidizing tuition to reducing reliance on the government, funding research, and improving the overall quality of education at Hampton.

Building a Culture of Philanthropy

“We are building a culture of philanthropy, that’s embedded in transparency and accountability. It is my vision to create an environment in which everyone—advancement team, faculty, students, parents, staff, and alumni—understands how they play a role in raising funds in support of our shared mission of delivering the #1 student experience in America,” said HU President Darrell K. Williams. “The Philanthropy Report reflects our community’s dedication to fostering academic excellence and empowering the next generation of leaders.”

The report introduces the Samuel Chapman Armstrong Giving Society, a new pacesetter initiative that spotlights the giver, their giving philosophy, their ties to the university and their testimony about the impact of their giving which includes:

• Helping maintain and enhance the quality of education and research.
• Making higher education more accessible, shifting the recruiting process on talent, rather than financial means.
• Fueling research and innovation that can lead to breakthroughs in various fields, benefiting not only the university but society at large.
• Renovating campus facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, the Harvey Library, and the Student Center that can help enhance the learning environment.
• Establishing endowed chairs and professorships, attracting top-tier faculty and experts to the university which raises the quality of education and research.
• Serving as an employer of choice and a source of economic activity in this region.
• Supporting cultural and arts programs that benefit both the university community and the broader public through concerts in Ogden Hall, art exhibitions in the University Museum, and performances across campus.
• Providing long-term financial stability, ensuring that Hampton can continue to fulfill their missions for generations.
• Allows Hampton to have a global reach, fostering international collaborations and partnerships.

“An engaged community that’s rooted in philanthropic values is at the heart and soul of everything we do,” said Evelyn Graham, vice president for Advancement and External Engagement. “Philanthropy is powerful, self-sustaining, and enables entirely new possibilities. The generosity of our community and the dedication of our donors are propelling Hampton University to new heights.” To view the digital version of the Philanthropy Report, click here.

About Hampton University

Hampton University, a dynamic historically Black institution with a legacy of excellence in education, research, and community service, provides a nurturing and empowering environment for students to thrive academically and personally. Founded in 1868, Hampton emphasizes a scientific and professional curriculum with a strong liberal arts undergirding, offering a broad range of technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. With a commitment to diversity, innovation and community engagement, Hampton continues to be a beacon of educational leadership in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Ranked in the top 8% of universities worldwide and recognized as Best Private College in Virginia, HU is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations. Visit www.hamptonu.edu.

Media Contact: Richelle Payne in the Office of University Relations, at 757-727-5253 or universityrelations@hamptonu.edu.

Hampton, Va. (December 14, 2023) – Hampton University proudly announces the dedication of the stage in Robert C. Ogden Hall to the Roland M. Carter stage, in honor of his legendary service to Hampton University as an esteemed composer, conductor, musician, happening at the 131^st Founder’s Day Ceremony on Sunday, January 28, 2024, 11:30am. This event is free and open to the public.  

“Roland Carter’s unparalleled contributions to the world of music and his profound impact on the Hampton University community have inspired this tribute,” said HU President Darrell K. Williams. “As a distinguished composer, conductor, and educator, Carter’s legacy aligns seamlessly with Hampton’s commitment to excellence and cultural enrichment.”

Roland M. Carter is a highly acclaimed composer, conductor, and music educator. His extensive body of work includes compositions for choirs and orchestras, reflecting his passion for musical excellence and cultural preservation in a decades long career.

Carter was active with the Choir Directors and Organists Guild of the HU Ministers Conference for over four decades, having moved through the ranks of student accompanist to assistant director and director of music. Since 2011, the Conference has honored him with the presentation of The Roland M. Carter Living Legends Award annually to distinguished church musicians throughout the country.

Ogden Auditorium, built in 1918 with two thousand seats, was the largest auditorium in the area at that time. Today, Ogden Hall is considered one of the finest acoustical venues in the nation, with the likes of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Marian Anderson and many other notable figures having graced the stage.

The dedication ceremony, commemorating Carter’s enduring influence and his indelible mark on the arts, will be a highlight of the 131^st Founder’s Day festivities, in which HU Alumna Racquel Oden, of HSBC Bank USA, will serve as the keynote speaker.

Carter is the Holmberg Professor Emeritus of American Music at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where he has served for 24 years. Carter served at HU, his undergraduate alma mater, for 25 years. Both appointments included stints as head, chair, and director of choirs. Carter received an honorary doctorate from Shaw University.

For media inquiries contact Sarita Scott, Office of University Relations, at 757.727.5253.

ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY Founded in 1868, Hampton University has been the Standard of Excellence in higher education for over 150 years. Rich in history, arts, culture and tradition, Hampton University is recognized as one of the top historically black colleges and universities in the world, and recently named the top private university in Virginia. Hampton provides a broad range of technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. Hampton continues to shape the future through its dynamic programs and diverse community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations. www.hamptonu.edu

Hampton, Va. (January 10, 2024) – The Hampton University Office of Student Activities, in conjunction with the Hampton Chapter of the NAACP and the National Pan-Hellenic Council will host the annual Dr. Martin Luther King. Jr. March and program on Monday, January 15 on campus. Both events are free and open to the public.

“We invite all students and members of the community to join us in honoring Dr. King,” said Calvin Harris, director, Student Involvement and Leadership.

The march will begin at 10:15 a.m. at the Emancipation Oak. Rev. Dr. Jerome A. Barber, of Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple in Hampton, will offer prayer. The march will proceed from William R. Harvey Way and conclude at Ogden Hall on campus. A reception, hosted by the Gamma Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., will immediately follow the program at the Student Center’s Student Lounge.

Rev. Cedric D. Rouson, pastor of The Place of Change, will deliver the keynote address during the 11 a.m. program. Rev. Rouson has a passion for leadership excellence, relationship building, family empowerment and personal restoration. He serves as a preacher, teacher, coach, strategist, facilitator and mentor. Rouson received a Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Union and an undergraduate degree from Liberty University.

For more information, contact the HU Office of Student Activities at 757.727.5691.

Hampton, Va. (December 15, 2023) – Hampton University is proud to announce Halima Ali, Ph.D., esteemed mathematics professor, has been appointed to the national Fusion Energy Science Advisory Committee (FESAC) by the Director of the Office of Science at the U.S. Department of Energy.

“Dr. Halima Ali’s extensive expertise in mathematics and her dedication to advancing scientific research make her an invaluable addition to FESAC,” said HU President Darrell K. Williams. “Her appointment reflects not only her individual achievements but also highlights Hampton University’s commitment to fostering excellence in academia and contributing to the forefront of scientific exploration.”

As a member of FESAC, Dr. Ali will play a crucial role in shaping policies and providing expert guidance on fusion energy research, a field of paramount importance in advancing sustainable and clean energy solutions. Her leadership and insights are expected to make significant contributions to the nation’s pursuit of groundbreaking advancements in fusion energy science.

“Hampton University extends its congratulations to Dr. Ali on this well-deserved appointment, recognizing her as a trailblazer in the academic community,” said Isi Ero-Tolliver, Ph.D., dean, School of Science. “The University looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of her contributions to the Fusion Energy Science Advisory Committee.”

Ali has been a member of the HU faculty as a professor of mathematics for over 30 years teaching a variety of graduate and undergraduate mathematics courses – from developmental level mathematics and pre-calculus to advanced level courses, including advanced differential equations, methods of applied mathematics, fluid dynamics, nuclear fusion, quantitative methods, statistics, advanced calculus, and independent/directed research courses.

Ali area of research is in nonlinear dynamics and chaos and its application to Thermonuclear Fusion Energy Science. She has a passion for engaging in scholarly and creative activities, and grantsmanship, and providing opportunities for integrated education and research experience for students.

ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1868, Hampton University has been the Standard of Excellence in higher education for over 150 years. Rich in history and tradition, Hampton University is recognized as one of the top historically black colleges and universities in the world, and recently named the top private university in Virginia. Hampton provides a broad range of technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. HU is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations.

Media contact: Sarita Scott, Office of University Relations, 757.727.5253 or sarita.scott@hamptonu.edu.

Partnership to strengthen quality of education, expand Fellows programs for students and faculty

HAMPTON, Va. (December 15, 2023) – Hampton University James T. George School of Business announced the expansion of its strategic relationship with Prudential Financial. To enhance the Hampton-Prudential codeveloped educational programs and launch new initiatives, Prudential is providing an additional $1 million grant to Hampton University.

With the new grant, the university will offer new scholarship and mentorship opportunities, including expanding the Prudential-Hampton Fellows program that is open to all first-year and second-year business school students. Prudential will also launch a new Faculty Fellowship, which includes a two-week immersive financial education experience at its headquarters in Newark, NJ. Additionally, the partnership will support campus facility improvements, technology investments, and educational sessions on product development, marketing, and corporate social responsibility.

The Hampton University and Prudential partnership began in 2010 with a $1 million pledge and is an example of Prudential’s ongoing commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which have been pivotal in advancing the economic mobility of Black Americans. Supporting HBCU students and communities helps reduce student financial burdens and remove structural barriers to Black economic empowerment and generational wealth building, which is a key component of Prudential’s Blueprints to Black Wealth initiative.

“The opportunity to attend Hampton University is a life-changing experience,” said President Williams, who possesses a unique understanding of the student experience, having graduated with the Class of 1983. “Prudential’s grant – and the fulfillment of our 10-year partnership – is helping create student experiences and programs that can bring more Black students into finance, technology, and investment professions.”

“Thank you to the Prudential team for the vision and dedication to providing the means to expand our infrastructure, provide mentorship and modeling opportunities for students and faculty, and offer access to strategies that will widen the pipeline to building generational wealth. Prudential’s collaboration and support ensures our students can persist through their college experience and reach their full potential.”

In addition to the grants supporting Hampton University James T. George School of Business, Hampton Athletics has also benefited from Prudential’s support of the university’s homecoming game and its appearance in the 2023 Brick City Classic.