HAMPTON, Va. Oct. 20, 2022 -Today, Hampton University and Starbucks Coffee Company celebrate the official grand opening of a new location on campus with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The store is located in The Shops at Hampton Harbor at 1000 Settlers Landing Rd.

“Hampton University proudly welcomes Starbucks to ‘Our Home by the Sea,’” said Hampton University President, Darrell K. Williams. “Starbucks presence in The Shops at Hampton Harbor not only provides another dining option for our campus community, but it also creates new job opportunities for our students, the local community and it enhances our ability to deliver the #1 student experience in America.”

The opening of this Starbucks location has created 40 local jobs, from barista positions to local management. The store features a drive-thru with pickup window, large community tables with power, an outdoor covered patio and custom artwork that highlights the history of Hampton University.

We’re excited to be serving the students, faculty and staff at Hampton University, along with the surrounding businesses and neighborhoods,” said Lance Sharpe, Store Manager and Hampton University Graduate. “In opening this store, we are working closely with Hampton’s leadership team to engage students and the community in ways that will make an impact locally.”

The store will be open from 5:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 5:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

For more information, please contact the University Relations office at 757-727-5253 or the Starbucks team at press@starbucks.com.

About Hampton University :
Hampton University is a comprehensive institution of higher education. For more than 150 years, it has been dedicated to the promotion of learning, building of character and preparation of promising students for positions of leadership and service. It emphasizes a scientific and professional curriculum with a strong liberal arts undergirding. 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

About Starbucks:
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with more than 34,000 stores worldwide, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at stories.starbucks.com or  www.starbucks.com

The Hampton Roads Show wrapped up its HBCU Week series with a visit to Hampton University

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Steeped in history and tradition, Hampton University is a progressive institution of higher education that draws from its past while charting a course for the future.

Click Here to visit the Hampton Roads Show Full website

HAMPTON, Va. (Sept. 20, 2022) — A team of seven Hampton University Aviation students won $10,000 when named winners of the General Aviation category of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Smart Airport Challenge; they finished first runner-up across all categories of the competition.  The students developed a concept that could help prevent runway incursions at airports across the nation. 

This year, the 2022 FAA Challenge: Smart Connected Aviation Student Competition asked students to consider innovative improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of smart technology throughout the airport environment. Student team members include graduate student Julian Payne-Dillard, graduating seniors, Raha Maxwell, Myles Divinity, Ellis Woodyard, Griffin Weathers, and Juniors Kailyn Hyman and Kiuma Muchira.

The concept the team brought to life is entitled “Runway Incursion Prevention System” or R.I.P.S. R.I.P.S. is an application that assists general aviation pilots’ awareness of their surroundings while taxiing. The concept includes the ability to download the application via the Apple Store or Google Play Store, and it provides GPS and augmented reality routing and instructions, a heads-up display, and audible alarms to help ensure runway incursions are minimized.

“Our team did an excellent job on this project over this past year. This makes us back-to-back finalists,” said Andrew Smith, Aviation assistant professor and the faculty advisor for the team. “There was a lot of brainstorming of ideas but ultimately, the concept of preventing runway incursions amongst general aviation pilots had a more personal connection as most of the team consists of student pilots.”

The FAA launched this competition for undergraduate and graduate student teams to develop creative solutions to transportation technology challenges while addressing human-factor aspects of travelers’ experience, and to share those innovations with the broader community. The Challenge Steering Committee selected four finalist teams from seven proposals submitted to compete for the $10,000-$25,000 cash prizes. Selection was based on project proposals, a technical paper, a digital poster, and a final presentation/demonstration to the Steering Committee judges during the 2022 Virtual Forum. 

“This competition was intended to stimulate and advance innovation in aviation research and promote the development of a robust aviation workforce,” said Shelley Yak, director of the FAA Technical Center. “Ultimately, ideas from participating student teams may help shape the future and foster innovation.

#HU#

HAMPTON, VA (Sept. 21, 2022) — Hampton University announced that the alumni members of the Class of 1985 have made a gift of $11,320 to the university. The effort is part of the Office of Alumni Affairs’ campaign to raise $10 million over the next year. 

Jeff Silverthorne, NHAA Alumni Giving co-chair, said, “We love our collective Home by the Sea! And all alumni are ready to dig in to do their best to support students in need, as well as to further enhance the greatness of Hampton.”

Mr. Silverthorne added, “Our $18.68 Campaign began in early August with a goal of raising $7,500 by Alumni Day.  This campaign was designed by Co-Class Leader Anita Dixon and me.  During the first 30 days of the campaign, we raised $8,426 and have had the participation of 83 classmates. This represents a close to a 100% improvement over 2021! And as of September 9, we had raised $11,320.”

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 (Sept. 21, 2022) — Hampton University announced that the Foundation for Grammy awarding winning artist Missy Elliott has provided a gift of $20,000 to fund a new, current-use scholarship for the Atlanta Chapter of the National Hampton Alumni Association (NHAA). 

“Missy Elliott hails from Portsmouth Virginia, and we thought it fitting that her contribution allowed us to fund this important scholarship for students. We are so excited to able to help students with the funding this contribution will allow,” said George White, President of the Atlanta NHAA Chapter. 

The national NHAA President, Willie Williams, said, “We have embarked on a 12-month effort to raise funds for students who are unable to get their tuition and other fees covered. We call it our Gap Funding scholarship. Without help from generous donors, our students would be unable to remain at Hampton and; therefore, in many cases, would be unable to complete their college education. We will be forever grateful to Ms. Elliott and her foundation for their support.”

An event was held earlier this year and proceeds from that event are also being put toward the new Atlanta Chapter’s Current Use Scholarship fund. 

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

About Missy Elliott

Melissa Arnette Elliott (born July 1, 1971 in Portsmouth, VA)is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. Under the professional name Missy Elliott, she was only 25 years old when the head of Elektra Entertainment Group offered her a deal that would enable her to write, produce, and record music under the umbrella of her own Gold Mind record label. In addition to four Grammy awards, Elliott has received the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Award for best female hip-hop artist numerous times, and her music videos earned her accolades and regular appearances on MTV.

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 NHAA

The National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc. is the official alumni organization of Hampton University that has the mission of promoting Hampton and seeking underwriting support for students and faculty programs and services. 

HAMPTON, Va. (Sept. 20, 2022) —Hampton University will officially mark the beginning of a new chapter in its storied 154 year history as alumnus and the university’s 13th President Darrell K. Williams will present the keynote address at the 79th Annual Opening Convocation on Sunday, September 25, 2022. Opening Convocation will be held in historic Robert C. Ogden Hall and will begin at 10:45 a.m. This event is open to the public.

“It is my honor and pleasure to announce that Darrell K. Williams, Hampton University’s 13th President, will deliver the keynote address at the 79th Annual Opening Convocation,” said Dr. Karen Ward, Chair of the Ceremonial Occasions Committee and Old Dominion Endowed Chair of Fine and Performing Arts. “This is a true full circle moment as President Williams sat in the very seats our students will be in. His more than four decades of proven success as a leader is a wonderful example to which our students may aspire. Hampton University is honored to welcome President and First Lady Myra Richardson Williams back to their Home by the Sea, and we look forward to what is sure to be an outstanding charge from the President to the assembled students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and other friends of Hampton.”

During this ceremony, Dr. Jean Muhammad, chair of the Department of Computer Science in the Hampton University School of Science will be presented the 2021-2022 E. L. Hamm, Sr. Distinguished Teaching Award. Since the 1960-61 academic year, Hampton University has recognized outstanding faculty members who have distinguished themselves in the endeavor of promoting quality, positivity, hard work, and service through The Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award. In 1994, the award was renamed the Edward L. Hamm, Sr. Distinguished Teaching Award. Each year, one or two faculty members receive the award after being nominated by their peers and/or students and selected by the university president. The recipients consistently attain teaching excellence by going above and beyond in the classroom and inspiring their students to have a passion for learning and a commitment to excellence.

The keynote speaker, President Williams, hails from West Palm Beach, Florida and brings to Hampton University more than four decades of proven success in leading complex domestic and international military, government civilian, academic institutional, and commercial business organizations. He served for over 37 years in the U.S. Army, his final 11 years at the executive and enterprise levels. 

While a student at Hampton, President Williams was Mister Freshman, 1979-80, a Student Leader, 1980–83, a three-year Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship cadet, a member of the Gamma Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, and senior class president, 1982-83 academic year. His wife, Myra Richardson Williams, also a Hamptonian, was a four-year member of the Hampton University concert choir and member of the Gamma Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

President Williams returns to Hampton from Leidos, a Fortune 250 information technology company, where he served as Vice President and Managing Director of the $9 billion United Kingdom (U.K.) Ministry of Defense Logistics Commodities and Services Transformation (LCST) contract, providing global logistical support to U.K. military forces.

President Williams’ professional affiliations include Board of Directors, National Industries for the Blind; founding board chair, Mary S. Peake Fellowship; former member of Board of Directors, Leidos Supply, Limited; advisory board, Solugen Inc.; member, Council on Foreign Relations; former Executive Fellow for the Institute for Defense and Business; life member, Association of the U.S. Army; life member, ROCKS, Incorporated; and member, The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

Among numerous honors, Williams has been awarded the U.S. Defense Distinguished Service Medal, U.S. Army Distinguished Service Medal, U.S. Defense Superior Service Medal, U.S. Defense Superior Service Medal, U.S. Army Legion of Merit, and U.S. Armed Forces Bronze Star Medal.  He is a member of the U.S. Army Cadet Command Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps Halls of Fame and a 2020 recipient of the Army Lieutenant General Arthur J. Gregg Sustainment Leadership Award.  He also received the Journal of Black Innovation 2020 Fifty Most Important African Americans in Technology Award and the 2018 Hampton University Distinguished Alumni Award. He is a 1983 Distinguished Military Graduate of the Hampton Institute ROTC program. 

The Opening Convocation Ceremony will be live-streamed at https://home.hamptonu.edu/our/livestream.

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. (Sept. 14, 2022) —. Hampton University Assistant Professor Dr. Rodney Gaines, Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, has been elected to the 2022 AAU Strength Sports Hall of Fame.

Dr. Rodney Gaines has a history in AAU bodybuilding competition dating back to the 1980s. He has won dozens of AAU bodybuilding titles in a competitive career stretching 35 years, including the AAU Central Atlantic Championship, AAU Virginia State Championship, AAU World Championship (Open & Masters divisions), and AAU Mr. Universe (Sports Model, Classic Bodybuilding, Elite & Masters divisions). Gaines has also promoted and judged bodybuilding competitions and started the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) Bodybuilding and Fitness Special Interest group, where AAU and other organizations can market and highlight events.

The Hall of Fame induction will occur Saturday, October 1 during the AAU World Powerlifting, Weightlifting and Feats of Strength Championships at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas. 

Hampton, VA. (Sept. 14, 2022) – Anthony Solomon, a Hampton University student, was awarded the Department of Defense Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship.

This award provides students with full tuition for up to five years, mentorship, summer internships, a stipend, and full-time employment with the Department of Defense after graduation. This unique opportunity offers students hands-on experience at one of over 200 innovative laboratories across the Army, Navy, Air Force and larger Department of Defense. During summer internships, SMART scholars work directly with an experienced mentor, gaining valuable technical skills. After graduation, Solomon will work at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency in Springfield, VA.

“School of Engineering and Technology students always shine,” said Dr. Joyce T. Shirazi, Dean of the Hampton University School of Engineering and Technology. “Anthony Solomon is an extremely talented Computer Engineering sophomore.  Not only is his entire education at Hampton University completely funded by the Department of Defense, including monthly stipends and health insurance, but as a SMART Scholar, he will have summer internships throughout his time at Hampton University and a job waiting for him upon graduation. The university’s last SMART Scholar, Kristopher Small, another Computer Engineering student, graduated in 2021 and he is currently working in support of the national security mission of the Department of Defense and planning to become an astronaut. Only the top students are selected into the SMART Scholarship Program, which is one of the most prestigious in the country.”

Solomon is currently studying for a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, with focus in Signal Processing.

“My goal was to be debt free after completing college and to avoid loans as much as possible,” said Solomon. “I knew it wouldn’t hurt to apply for the SMART scholarship, so I gave it a try. Although it took hard-work, time, sacrifice, and perseverance to reach this point, it was all worth it! I shouted and thanked the Lord for this huge accomplishment!”

The Department of Defense is committed to developing the Nation’s STEM talent and is the largest employer of federal scientists and engineers with nearly 150,000 civilian STEM employees working across the Department. DoD STEM activities support this mission by providing authentic learning experiences through a variety of education and outreach initiatives, such as the SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program. For over a decade, SMART has trained a highly skilled STEM workforce that competes with the evolving trends of industry to support the next generation of science and technology for our nation.

For more information on the SMART Program or to learn how students can apply, please visit www.smartscholarship.org. The application is open annually from August through December.

About The SMART Program

The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program is a combined educational and workforce development opportunity for bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. students to gain technical skills in critical STEM fields and support the national security mission of the Department of Defense.

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.

Society for Financial Education & Professional Development (SFEPD) Will Teach Financial Education at Hampton University

New Financial Literacy Initiative to Provide Financial Knowledge and Skills Campus-wide and in the Community

Alexandria, VA. (Aug. 29, 2022) – The Society for Financial Education and Professional Development (SFEPD)and Hampton University announced a comprehensive initiative to teach financial education to the Hampton University community.

Appointed as president of Hampton University on July 1st, Williams is bringing new and innovative approaches to academics, including a strong focus on financial education, preparing students for financial success after graduation, and wealth creation. One of the nation’s premier HBCUs, Hampton University is a private research university, known for its business, communications, and nursing programs. According to Williams, Hampton University will work to eradicate a void in college education by ensuring a holistic approach to teaching financial skills at the university and in the community. “Too many college students receive an educational degree but do not acquire the financial skills that encourage economic health throughout their lives,” Williams said. “By working with SFEPD, we aim to eradicate the wealth and financial knowledge gap at Hampton University. Additionally, implementing a campus-wide financial literacy program will add value to our students’ degrees.” 

SFEPD, a leader in the financial education movement, has taught personal financial management skills at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for nearly 25 years, but the project with Hampton University marks the first time SFEPD will train students, parents, staff, administrators, and the surrounding local community. 

“We applaud Hampton University’s President Darrell K. Williams for his vision and commitment to making sure financial knowledge and skills are taught to individuals throughout the university,” said Ted Daniels, SFEPD’s founder and president. “Financial literacy skills are essential to managing money wisely and to foster economic growth, especially in underserved communities not exposed to the intricacies of personal money management.”  

SFEPD will offer an array of financial literacy training programs at Hampton University including three of SFEPD’s signature programs: 

An SFEPD Student Ambassador Program 

• A successful program that trains HBCU college students to teach their peers to manage their finances better and build wealth. SFEPD trains Student Ambassadors in financial concepts to enable them to lead and teach engaging classes to fellow students. SFEPD’s financial educators and HBCU business school professors help Ambassadors to create workshops and events for students and local communities, and in turn, the Ambassadors develop leadership skills and serve as champions of financial literacy. 

“Mind Over Money Skills” Program 

• SFEPD’s “Mind Over Money Skills” Program, a series of customized financial education and professional development seminars and workshops, is tailored for underserved populations and lower-income individuals. SFEPD will offer Credit Management and Student Loan Management, Personal Money Management, Investor Education, and Homeownership seminars at Hampton University. [Text Wrapping Break] 

Financial Literacy Certificate Program  

• Through a collaboration with the American College of Financial Services (ACFS), SFEPD offers supportive opportunities for HBCU students. Through the Know Yourself, Grow Your Wealth initiative, Hampton students, parents, faculty, staff, and administrators can earn a financial education certificate, which adds to their knowledge and professional development skills. 

 As broad sectors of the U.S. population confront economic hardships, more emphasis must be placed on guaranteeing that financial knowledge and skills are available for those who need it the most, Daniels said. “This is essential in communities of color who often live paycheck to paycheck with low savings and homeownership rates; however, SFEPD’s financial literacy programs will give Hampton University and the community tools to manage their money well.”  

About The Society for Financial Education and Professional Development 

For nearly 25 years, SFEPD, based in the Washington, D.C. area, has served as an award-winning financial literacy and professional development nonprofit teaching financial skills to people of all ages and backgrounds with a focus on underserved communities. SFEPD is directed by President and Founder Ted Daniels, a global financial literacy leader. Learn more at www.sfepd.org. Connect with SFEPD on social media: 

• Facebook 
• Instagram 
• LinkedIn 
• Twitter 
• YouTube 

Following the success of last year’s debut HBCU Live at the US Open, an expanded version of the program will return in 2022 to celebrate the culture, history and pride of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.  To honor these schools and their impact, this year’s HBCU Live at the US Open—slated for Wednesday, Aug. 31—will present an experience reflective of these campuses. This starts with the space itself: HBCUs traditionally feature communal hubs called “yards,” and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center will capture the spirit of these areas with the day’s music, food and other entertainment.

Tickets for HBCU Live at the US Open and all other sessions of the 2022 US Open are on sale now at Ticketmaster.

“Under the new leadership of President Williams, he has re-invigorated and inspired the HU Bands Program to truly be at the forefront of the Hampton University cultural experience,” said Jones. “It is through his support that we’ve been able to make this performance happen, and it is very much in keeping with his intent to make Hampton University the #1 (Band) Student Experience in America. We have selected four high schools at which to perform, and whether or not those students are interested in band, we have the opportunity to share the light of Hampton U in a way that no other student organization on campus can. I’m both happy and excited for our students as we look forward to the unique and fun opportunities this season will provide.”

Speaking of music: HBCU alumni will DJ during both Fan Week and the main draw. A Fly Guy (Florida A&M University), Miss Robinson (South Carolina State University) and DJ Envy (Hampton University), host of The Breakfast Club, will headline on Aug. 31. 

HBCU Live at the US Open aims to reconnect the schools’ alumni, family and friends, while also illustrating the relationship between HBCUs and tennis. The events will allow US Open fans to learn more about these great institutions, their history and their impact on both tennis and the Black community. 

Performing at the US Open is the latest accolade for The Marching Force. The band performed last year in the 95th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Marching Force performed in the 2020 Rome New Year’s Day Parade in Rome, Italy. The Marching Force drumline performed in the 2019 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, prior to the Rose Bowl. In 2018 & 2020 The Marching Force performed at the Honda Battle of the Bands while over 62,000 fans filled the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. The Marching Force also performed in President Obama’s Inauguration Parade in 2009.

Dr. Jones reminds Hampton Nation that fans of The Marching Force are encouraged to help defray the cost of scholarships, instruments, uniforms and recruitment of new band members by visiting the band’s site: https://www.humarchingforce.com/donate/.

About Hampton University:

Hampton University is a comprehensive institution of higher education. For more than 150 years, it has been dedicated to the promotion of learning, building of character and preparation of promising students for positions of leadership and service. It emphasizes a scientific and professional curriculum with a strong liberal arts undergirding. 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