To continue their shared goal of destigmatizing the mental health conversation in the Black community, The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation and kate spade new york bring the first-of-its-kind “She Care Wellness Pods” to a second HBCU campus this Fall.

NEW YORK, NY (September 13, 2023) – This fall, The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF) and kate spade new york proudly announce the expansion of their joint program, the “She Care Wellness Pods”, which aims to reach over 25,000 Black women on HBCU campuses with frontline mental wellness care. After a successful inaugural launch at Alabama State University in April of this year, BLHF and kate spade are expanding the initiative to a second HBCU campus location, Hampton University in Virginia.

Through this groundbreaking program for HBCU students, BLHF and kate spade new york, in partnership with trusted Hampton University community resources, bring access to mental health facilities and resources directly to Black women on campus. The multifaceted program features the opening of “She Care Wellness Pods” – physical structures installed on campuses that offer a range of services, including:

• Free mental health therapy sessions for female students experiencing an exacerbation of stress, anxiety and hopelessness.
• Hangout spaces that allow students to connect with peers or avoid isolation and grief during the school year and vacation periods. 
• Unique programming including yoga, meditation, art and drama therapy, African dance, nutrition and more, all provided by certified practitioners.
• Workshops that offer resources and tools for those who suffer with anxiety, sleep deprivation and insomnia.
• Quiet spaces for silence, rest and respite to reset from daily stressors.

Founded in 2018, The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation’s mission is to eradicate the stigma around mental health in the Black community. As a leading Black mental health advocacy group, BLHF provides competent therapy and integrated wellness resources. For katespade new york, women’s empowerment has been at the forefront of the brand’s purpose for over a decade and remains a core pillar of the brand. This year, kate spade and the kate spade new york Foundation will invest $5 million in programming to further destigmatize the mental health conversation and continue to provide services to women and girls in need. By continuing to expand the “She Care Wellness Pods” initiative, the joint partnership aims to provide 25,000 Black women on HBCU college campuses with frontline mental healthcare.

“When we first had the idea to create the Boris L. Henson Foundation Self-Care Wellness Pods, I knew we had to start with women, and specifically women on HBCU campuses. I can remember through my own experiences with stress and anxiety, not having the adequate support to deal with my issues or the education to name what I was experiencing,” said BLHF Founder, Taraji P. Henson. “Black women, from a very young age, are taught to be strong and dismiss their own suffering,  tending to the needs of family and community often at the expense of their own well-being. The She Care Wellness pods seek to change this narrative,” says BLHF Executive Director, Tracie Jade. “Our shared vision and partnership with kate spade new york has been vital in promoting conversations and offering support to students to take care of their mental health, starting with our successful launch of She Care Wellness pods at Alabama State University. We are proud to open our second installment at Hampton University this fall,” Henson stated.   

“At kate spade new york, we believe that mental health is foundational to women’s empowerment, and recognize that it has long been under-acknowledged, underfunded, and stigmatized.  We are committed to increasing accessibility of mental health resources to women and girls around the globe through our social impact work and trusted partners in this space,” said kate spade new york CEO and Brand President, Liz Fraser. “We are proud to expand our partnership with Taraji, Tracie and The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation. By offering space and resources dedicated to mental health, together we can create a positive difference for young women on HBCU campuses and in their communities.”

“The health and wellbeing of our Hampton University community is of the utmost importance,” Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams expressed. “We take a holistic approach to education and, as such, we are honored to partner with the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation and kate spade new york on the She Care Wellness Pods, positioning our students with additional resources for mental wellness, helping to prioritize the importance of mental health within our communities.

“Hampton University is proud to be a recipient of the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation’s Wellness Pods,” said Kristie Norwood, Ph.D., director, HU Student Counseling Center. “One out of five adults are affected by mental health diagnoses and 39% of college students experience a significant mental health issue. It is our mission, at the HU Student Counseling Center, to  help normalize therapy within the Black community, and to educate our students on the importance of self-care and mental health awareness. The Wellness Pods will be part of a multi-faceted approach to ensuring the health and wellness of our students.”

Each She Care Wellness Pod is designed to create an environment that stimulates joy, peace and serenity through intentional design and color selection. The mural is a reflection of each campuses’ unique identity, from the perspective of the student body.  One student is selected by each campus leadership team to design the mural that is painted on the outside of the containers.  The intention of the mural is to reflect the diversity of women and intersecting identities within the local study body.

“The piece I have created reflects the importance of watering yourself based upon what your body and mind need,” said Hampton University student and mural artist T’Kiyah Reeves. “As women, we must prioritize our wellness.  We must treat our minds with the same love, care, compassion and grace we would give to a tangible seedling to support its growth into something beautiful.”

As a member of kate spade new york’s Social Impact Council, which was established in January 2022, Taraji P. Henson, has continued her work with the global lifestyle brand to increase mental health resources. Alongside other social impact members, including Sofia Wylie and Jazz Thorton and Latham Thomas and more, the cohort brings unique expertise and work hand-in-hand with kate spade to propel positive change, and encourage more conversation, education and research around the cause.

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation and kate spade new york will launch their second “She Care Wellness Pod” at Hampton University, a historically Black university in Hampton, Virginia. The on-campus mental health destination will officially open to Hampton University students on November 2, allowing the community to take advantage of increased mental health resources and access.

About The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation:

Founded in 2018, BLHF has built its reputation on providing trusted referrals and demonstrating a deep understanding of the population health of communities of Color. Through timely and relevant programming and awareness campaigns, BLHF encourages mental wellness, raises awareness of the stigma and the use of stigmatizing language when referring to mental illness, and provides mental health resources to the Black community.

The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation is charting a new course that encourages Black individuals to own their history, heritage, and collective wounds in empowering, empathic, and transformative ways.

For more information, visit https://borislhensonfoundation.org/.

About kate spade new york:

Since its launch in 1993 with a collection of six essential handbags, Kate Spade New York has always stood for color, wit, optimism, and femininity. Today, it is a global lifestyle brand synonymous with joy, delivering seasonal collections of handbags, ready-to-wear, jewelry, footwear, gifts, home décor and more. Known for its rich heritage and unique brand DNA, Kate Spade New York offers a distinctive point of view, and celebrates communities of women around the globe who live their perfectly imperfect lifestyles. Kate Spade New York is part of the Tapestry house of brands.

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.

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

Media Contacts:

LaForce, katespade@laforce.nyc

Supported by AT&T Dream In Black, Taco Bell, Toyota and Twix, The HBCU Tour Will Visit Tennessee State University, Hampton University and North Carolina A&T

KevOnStage, Crystal Renee and Key Wane Will Join Paul Rivera on The First Stop

LOS ANGELES, CA – OCTOBER 9, 2023 – This fall, The Shop, the marquee franchise from The SpringHill Company, will launch “The Shop UNINTERRUPTED HBCU Tour” supported by AT&T Dream In Black (DIB), Taco Bell, Toyota and Twix and open the doors of The Shop on HBCU (Historically Black College and University) campuses for the first time to cultivate conversations amongst the next generation of Black innovators. 

As alumni, faculty, current students and local communities gather to celebrate Homecoming Season, The Shop has teamed up with select brand partners to bring the shop chairs, celebrity guests and candid conversations to three HBCU campuses — Tennessee State University, Hampton University and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University for an unforgettable experience centered around the power of community and collaboration. 

“Barbershops and HBCUs hold important roles within Black and Brown communities and are cornerstones in cultivating and educating the next generation of Black and Brown thought-leaders. As we continue to highlight the communities that we started in, bringing The Shop to HBCU campuses was a top priority, said Paul Rivera, Co-Creator of The Shop and Chief Brand Officer at The SpringHill Company. “This tour enables us to highlight aspirational talent through meaningful conversation that can inspire students to dream beyond the classroom during one of Black culture’s most notable moments — Homecoming.”

Doubling down on The Shop’s mission to bring people together through conversations, products and experiences, The Shop UNINTERRUPTED HBCU Tour supported by AT&T Dream In Black, Taco Bell, Toyota and Twix is free to the general public (18+) and includes the following stops and activation elements: 

STOP #1: Tennessee State University | Nashville, TN | Friday, October 13

Activation: 10am-2pm | Live Taping: 2-3pm 

• EXPERIENCE THE SHOP LIVE:  The Shop co-creator Paul Rivera will be joined by actor, comedian and content creator KevOnStage as guest co-host with special guests actress and producer Crystal Renee and music producer and songwriter Key Wane for an exclusive live taping of the multi-award-winning series The Shop UNINTERRUPTED.
• AT&T DREAM IN BLACK:  The AT&T DIB Rising Future Makers (RFM) Showcase activation will lean into the vintage barbershop vibe found at The Shop and feature a photo activation, as well as kiosk for HBCU students to submit their application to become a part of the 2023 Rising Future Makers Class. The RFM Showcase is a contest for HBCU students, to enter for the chance to receive $5,000, technology, and access to industry experts in support of their dreams. The space will also highlight inspirational quotes and images from previous RFM winners. Blake Newby, influential editor, and the 2023 RFM coach, will also be on-site to answer questions about the RFM Showcase and provide students with tips on how to complete their entries.  
• TOYOTA: Toyota will be on-site creating an impactful presence and experience, including an accessible display of the new Toyota Grand Highlander and a photo booth enabling students to capture their unique homecoming moments. There will also be DJs on-hand spinning music live in The Shop HBCU booth, a lounge for anyone wanting to pause and relax amid the festivities, Toyota gift bag giveaways and more.
• TWIX:  TWIX is an ‘AND’ in a world of ‘OR’s’ and during The Shop UNINTERRUPTED HBCU Tour, the brand will lean into the duality of TWIX. There will be a special photo moment for attendees to showcase their own unique dualities. To add an extra layer of sweetness, there will also be candy stations with TWIX bars and Mars products.
• UNFORGETTABLE FAN MOMENTS: From interactive photo moments that will provide ample selfie opportunities to the DJ creating the vibes throughout the day, there is something for everyone. 

STOP #2: Hampton University | Hampton, VA | Friday, October 27 

Activation: 1-4pm | Live Taping: 4-5pm | Special Concert: 9pm

• EXPERIENCE THE SHOP LIVE: The Shop co-creator Paul Rivera and co-host Maverick Carter will be joined by special guests for an exclusive live taping of the multi-award-winning series The Shop UNINTERRUPTED.
• AT&T DREAM IN BLACK:  The AT&T DIB Rising Future Makers (RFM) Showcase activation will lean into the vintage barbershop vibe found at The Shop and feature a photo activation, as well a kiosk for HBCU students to submit their application to become a part of the 2023 Rising Future Makers Class. The RFM Showcase is a contest for HBCU students, to enter for the chance to receive $5,000, technology, and access to industry experts in support of their dreams. The space will also highlight inspirational quotes and images from previous RFM winners.
• TWIX: TWIX is an ‘AND’ in a world of ‘OR’s’ and during The Shop UNINTERRUPTED HBCU Tour, the brand will lean into the duality of TWIX. There will be a special photo moment for attendees to showcase their own unique dualities. To add an extra layer of sweetness, there will also be candy stations with TWIX bars and Mars products.
• TACO BELL: There will be a can’t miss musical performance. In addition to hosting the concert, the Taco Bell Foundation will be presenting a $25,000 donation from Taco Bell to Hampton’s Music and Arts program. The Taco Bell Taco Truck will also be onsite providing Crunchy Tacos to students ahead of the show while supplies last.
• UNFORGETTABLE FAN MOMENTS: From interactive photo moments that will provide ample selfie opportunities to the DJ creating the vibes throughout the day, there is something for everyone. 

STOP #3: North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University | Greensboro, NC Carolina | Thursday, November 2 

Activation: 4-7pm | Live Taping: 7-8pm 

• EXPERIENCE THE SHOP LIVE: The Shop co-creator Paul Rivera and co-host Maverick Carter will be joined by special guests for an exclusive live taping of the multi-award-winning series The Shop UNINTERRUPTED.
• AT&T DREAM IN BLACK: The AT&T DIB Rising Future Makers (RFM) Showcase activation will lean into the vintage barbershop vibe found at The Shop and feature a photo activation, as well a kiosk for HBCU students to submit their application to become a part of the 2023 Rising Future Makers Class. The RFM Showcase is a contest for HBCU students, to enter for the chance to receive $5,000, technology, and access to industry experts in support of their dreams. The space will also highlight inspirational quotes and images from previous RFM winners.
• TOYOTA: Toyota will be on-site creating an impactful presence and experience, including an accessible display of the new Toyota Grand Highlander and a photo booth enabling students to capture their unique homecoming moments. There will also be DJs on-hand spinning music live in The Shop HBCU booth, a lounge for anyone wanting to pause and relax amid the festivities, Toyota gift bag giveaways and more.
• TWIX: TWIX is an ‘AND’ in a world of ‘OR’s’ and during The Shop UNINTERRUPTED HBCU Tour, the brand will lean into the duality of TWIX. There will be a special photo moment for attendees to showcase their own unique dualities. To add an extra layer of sweetness, there will also be candy stations with TWIX bars and Mars products.
• UNFORGETTABLE FAN MOMENTS: From interactive photo moments that will provide ample selfie opportunities to the DJ creating the vibes throughout the day, there is something for everyone. 

For more information on “The Shop UNINTERRUPTED HBCU Tour” supported by AT&T Dream In Black, Taco Bell, Toyota and Twix, please visit https://theshoplive.uninterrupted.com/ or follow @TheShopUN on social media.

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About The Shop UNINTERRUPTED: The Sports Emmy® Award winning series The Shop UNINTERRUPTED, co-created by Paul Rivera and Randy Mims, remains intact at being revolutionary and creating unique experiences where celebrated artists, entertainers, athletes and advocates come together for authentic, raw, untapped conversations and storytelling. Full episodes continue to be available on UNINTERRUPTED’s YouTube Channel. 

About AT&T: We help more than 100 million U.S. families, friends and neighbors, plus nearly 2.5 million businesses, connect to greater possibility. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to our 5G wireless and multi-gig internet offerings today, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. For more information about AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T), please visit us at about.att.com. Investors can learn more at investors.att.com.

About Taco Bell: For more information about Taco Bell, visit our website at www.TacoBell.com, our Newsroom at www.TacoBell.com/news or www.TacoBell.com/popular-links. You can also stay up to date on all things Taco Bell by following us on LinkedIn, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook and subscribing to our YouTube channel. 

About Taco Bell Foundation: Taco Bell Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity that helps America’s young people pursue their educational goals and career aspirations. Since 1992, the Taco Bell Foundation has reached more than 5 million young people across the country and has awarded $155 million in grants and scholarships, focused on education and career readiness. For more information about the Taco Bell Foundation, visit https://www.tacobellfoundation.org/.

About Toyota: Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next‐generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 people in North America, who have contributed to the design, engineering and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 20 electrified options, with more in showrooms later this year.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society’s most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

About Twix: Rooted in Purpose, Mars is driven by the belief that the world we want tomorrow starts with how we do business today. As a global, family-owned business, we’re working hard to ensure our iconic brands, including TWIX, are making a difference in society, and are constantly innovating to ensure that we’re making a positive impact on the world.

Media Contact: Maxine Dior Chapman | The Shop | Maxine.Chapman@TheSpringHillCompany.com

Mary J. Blige and Pepsi© Join Efforts to Award $30,000 “Strength of a Woman” scholarship as part of the annual, multi-day festival and summit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hampton, VA – October 10, 2023:  PepsiCo., Inc has established a scholarship program to assist current college sophomores at Hampton University, who self-identify as female, and are planning to enroll at Hampton University 2024-2025 academic year.

The program is administered by Scholarship America®, the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships and other education support programs for corporations, foundation, associations, and individuals.

To be eligible for the “Strength of a Woman” scholarship, the student must self-identify as a female, be a current sophomore and plan to enroll full-time for the 2024-25 academic year. The student must have a minimum 2.5 grade-point average and be pursuing a degree in business administration, marketing, arts, finance or creative design.

The award will be renewable for up to one year or until a bachelor’s degree is earned, whichever occurs first. The deadline to apply is 3 p.m. October 16, 2023. For more information and to apply, visit learnmore.scholarsapply.org/strength-of-a-woman-scholarship

Hampton Va. (October 5, 2023) – The Pirate Battalion started October off strong! The Hampton University Army ROTC Department awarded 9 cadets with scholarships ranging from 2–4-year full rides, with the price range of $68,000 – $103,167.

Lieutenant General Retired Darrell K. Williams, President of Hampton University, administered the contracting oath in a ceremony held on Hampton’s beautiful waterfront. These 9 cadets have shown outstanding leadership potential, academic excellence, physical fitness and are actively involved in many organizations on campus. In total, these cadets earned nearly 1 million dollars in scholarships! Looking forward to their continued success and the impact these young leaders will contribute to the illustrious military legacy of Hampton University. The Cadets awarded include:

–         Cadet Karen Crisanton – Valdez, a 2^nd year Criminal Justice and Sociology major with a minor in Military Science and Leadership Studies on the Pre Law track from Brooklyn, NY, was awarded a 3 – year scholarship and is interested in branching Adjutant General Corps in the National Guard. 

–         Cadet Caven Black, a 2^nd year Criminal Justice Major and military science minor, from Chester, Virginia, was awarded a 3 – year scholarship and wants to commission on Active duty as an Infantry Officer Cadet.

–         Cadet Joshua Copeland a 2^nd year Criminal Justice major, Simultaneous Membership Program National Guardsmen, from White Plains, Maryland was awarded a 3 – year scholarship and wants to commission as a Logistics Officer.

–         Cadet Miles Cross, a 1^st year History Major on the Pre-Law track from Douglasville, Georgia, was awarded a 4-year National Scholarship and plans on going to law school then commission in the on Active Duty as JAG Officer.

–         Cadet Daylen Douglas, a 3^rd year Liberal Studies major concentrated in Sport Management from Louisville, Kentucky, was awarded a 2-year scholarship and is interested in commissioning in the Reserves as an Engineer Officer.

–         Cadet McClung, a 3^rd year, Political Science Major, Military Science Minor from Detroit, Michigan, was awarded a 2-year scholarship and plans on commissioning as an Active-Duty Field Artillery Officer.

–         Cadet Mobely, a 2^nd year MBA Major with an emphasis in Music Recording Technology and Audio Production, Simultaneous Membership Program National Guardsmen, from Brooklyn, New York was awarded a 3-year scholarship and is interested in commissioning as a Military Intelligence Officer.

–         Cadet Ke’Mya Sutton a 2^nd year, Psychology Major on the Pre-Law track with a military science minor, from Elloree, South Carolina, was awarded a 3-year scholarship and wants to commission into the active-duty Medical Specialist Corps.

–         Cade Serenity Wade a 2^nd year, Kinesiology Major, military science minor, from Jacksonville, Florida, was awarded a 3-year scholarship and wants to commission into the active-duty Medical Specialist Corps.

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 undergirding. A historically Black institution, Hampton University is committed to multiculturalism, serving 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. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.

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Media contact: James Parker, Senior Director of Marketing & Media Relations, Office of University Relations, Hampton University, james.parker@hamptonu.edu, 757-718-2949

The TowneBank Club was unveiled at Hampton’s Sept. 9 football home-opener against Norfolk State. The TowneBank Club, located adjacent to the Armstrong Stadium endzone, is a special hospitality suite designed for donors and athletic investors enjoyment in a controlled temperature setting with amenities including food and drink. A special covered rooftop area provides a unique view of the field. 

The Towne Bank Club is part of a $1 million partnership between the financial institution and Hampton University. This spring, TowneBank pledged $1 million to the university for naming rights within Armstrong Stadium and premier engagement with the Department of Athletics. The grant also outlines career services and professional development opportunities between the university and the TowneBank family of companies. 

“This gift marks the largest partnership between TowneBank and an HBCU,” said Alexis Swann, president of TowneBank Peninsula and Williamsburg. “We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate and find new, strategic ways to enhance our relationship with Hampton University.” 

Hampton Athletics Director Anthony D. Henderson, Sr. said, “We thank TowneBank so much for their generous contribution. It’s partners like them that make our work possible. This partnership also will help showcase TowneBank and further advance the brand of this banking institution. We look forward to building on this amazing relationship.”

Pictured L to R Above: Tom Hasty, TowneBank SEVP and Chief Regulatory Risk Management Officer, Alexis Swann, president of TowneBank Peninsula and Williamsburg, Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams, First Lady Myra Williams, Hampton University Athletics Director Anthony D. Henderson, Sr.

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 undergirding. A historically Black institution, Hampton University is committed to multiculturalism, serving 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. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.

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Media contact: James Parker, Senior Director of Marketing & Media Relations, Office of University Relations, Hampton University, james.parker@hamptonu.edu, 757-718-2949

The Hampton University family mourns the death of Hampton University Police Department Deputy Chief Ronald V. Davis, who passed on Tuesday, October 3, 2023. He had a long and distinguished career in law enforcement that spanned more than 46-years. An ardent supporter of social justice, he diligently worked for the benefit of all Hampton, Virginia citizens for 40 years before retiring from the Hampton Police Division as a Major.

Following his retirement from the Hampton Police Division, Davis began a second career as Deputy Chief in the Hampton University Police Department. He was a conscientious, dedicated and exemplary member of the Hampton University family for six years.

Deputy Chief Davis was active in numerous civic organizations. He served as a representative for institutions of higher education as a Board member of the Hampton City Police Advisory Group (CPAG.) In 1995, Deputy Chief Davis received a Hampton Police Division’s Meritorious Service Award.

He earned an Associate degree in Police Science from Thomas Nelson Community College, a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology from St. Leo University, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Troy State University. Deputy Chief Davis also completed Hostage Negotiation School, the Leadership Institute and the prestigious Police Executive Leadership School.

Deputy Chief Ronald V. Davis is survived by two sons. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

 At around a dozen schools across at least seven states, the Vice President will bring thousands of students together around the fight for reproductive freedom, common sense gun safety laws, climate action, voting rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and teaching America’s full history. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON Thursday, September 7, 2023 – As students across the nation return to school, Vice President Kamala Harris will embark on a month-long college tour throughout America to mobilize young people in the ongoing fight for fundamental freedoms and rights. She is set to visit around a dozen campuses in at least seven states as she brings together thousands of students for high-energy, large-scale events. The Vice President’s flurry of “Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour” stops will focus on key issues that disproportionately impact young people across the country – from reproductive freedom and gun safety to climate action, voting rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and book bans.
 
“This generation is critical to the urgent issues that are at stake right now for our future,” said Vice President Harris. “It is young leaders throughout America who know what the solutions look like and are organizing in their communities to make them a reality. My message to students is clear: We are counting on you, we need you, you are everything.”
 
Vice President Harris’s “Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour” will include visits to historically Black colleges and universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, community colleges, apprenticeship programs, and state schools. The Vice President will highlight how the Biden-Harris Administration has delivered for young people, outline the work ahead to protect fundamental freedoms, and hear directly from students who are organizing on the frontlines of these fights. She will also urge attendees to register to vote, use their voice, and stay engaged.
 
This series of college tour events is a continuation of the Vice President’s recent travel, and comes on the heels of her Summer of Action that included visits to 17 states. Vice President Harris has already been to 11 college campuses this year after traveling to 14 schools in 2022.
 
The Vice President’s “Fight for Our Freedoms College Tour” includes the following stops:

1. Hampton University in Hampton, VA on 9/14
2. North Carolina A&T in Greensboro, NC on 9/15
3. Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA on 9/26
4. University of Wisconsin-Madison in Madison, WI
5. College of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas, NV
6. Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ

Additional campus visits and details for media to RSVP will be available in the coming days.
A livestream recording of the Vice President’s visit is available by clicking here

 
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Jefferson’s New Role Makes Her the Eagle-Eye for The President’s Engagement with Key Internal and External Constituent Groups

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton, VA (August 9, 2023) – Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams has promoted 28-year higher education veteran, Joy Jefferson, to Chief of Staff. As Chief of Staff, she will act as an advisor and strategic partner to the president and support the university’s executive team in the implementation of the president’s priorities as detailed in the strategic plan. Prior to her promotion, Joy served as Vice President and Executive Assistant to the President.

A household name to Hampton, Joy has served as Vice President for External Relations, Associate Vice President for Development, Assistant Vice President for Development, and Director of University Relations under the Harvey administration. Her responsibilities included the overall leadership and supervision of the Offices of Alumni Affairs, the Annual Fund, and University Relations, Marketing & Communications, and service on the President’s Administrative Council. Her impact spans across the Chesapeake Bay, having served as the associate vice president for alumni relations and executive director of the Old Dominion University Alumni Association. At ODU, Joy led the cultivation of a community of more than 165,000 alumni throughout the United States and around the world. She also held an early-career position as Director of Development at North Carolina State University.

“Mrs. Jefferson is undeniably fit to lead as our Chief of Staff. Her wit, wisdom, and candor accent her impact and contribute to the vitality of our university,” said President Williams.

Joy currently serves on the Hampton Roads Center Owners Association Board of Directors. She is a former member of the Virginia Peninsula YMCA Board of Directors, Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities State Board of Directors, the An Achievable Dream, Inc. Board of Directors, and Relay for Life Virginia Peninsula Executive Committee. 

Joy shared, “Our network is strong. We become greater as we nurture relationships and partnerships with a mutual heart for Hampton and our global community. I am glad to partner with President Williams in supporting our leaders and forging ahead in our pursuit of a greater Hampton.”

A native of Hampton Roads, Joy is a 1986 graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Media Arts.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton, VA (Friday, September 8, 2023) – Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams is pleased to announce that U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris will visit the HU campus on Thursday, September 14, as the first stop on the newly announced “Fight For Our Freedoms College Tour.”

“This generation is critical to the urgent issues that are at stake right now for our future,” Vice President Harris said in a statement. Vice President Harris is expected to visit a broad range of 11 campuses across the country to discuss such issues as gun violence, the cost of higher education, and the climate crisis with students.

“It is an honor to welcome Vice President Kamala Harris to our ‘Home By the Sea,’” said President Williams. “The excitement across our campus is palpable, and we are grateful for Vice President Harris’ focus on higher education and our students. The bright minds and student leaders of character at Hampton and other institutions are our future.”

Vice President Harris’ visit marks the first White House campus appearance during President Williams’ administration. Williams has entered his second year at the helm of HU with a tremendous surge in student enrollment and a focus on campus modernization as HU delivers the #1 student experience in America. 

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, providing 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 nations.

For more information, contact the HU University Relations Office, Richelle Payne at 484.908.9987 or Sarita Scott, at 757.927.7232.

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Roberts’ Leadership Will Heighten University Event Production and Maximize Hampton’s Competitive Edge

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton, VA (August 11, 2023) – Underpinning the pursuit to enhance stakeholder engagement, Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams has appointed Apryl D. Roberts to the Office of the President as Director of Protocol and Special Events. She will oversee the planning, management, and delivery of a portfolio of events and drive counsel on procedural and diplomatic protocol for high-profile visitors to the University. Ms. Roberts will be a conduit for executing successful university events – equipping faculty and staff with an event planning toolkit, a suite of web-based resources, and a series of workshops to build confidence and mastery of new media.

With over 20 years of experience, Roberts is an industry leader in live event production & design and experiential marketing, leading such projects as the Mid-Atlantic Film Festival, Taste of Hampton Roads, Hope Celebrity Weekend, Kam Cares (Bam Bam’s Spring Jam) Celebrity Weekend and served as a Senior Producer for Pharrell Williams’ Mighty Dream Festival. Her work has been featured in publications such as American Express Open Forum, YFS Magazine, The Knot, and Munaluchi Bride. She recently served as the President of the Hampton Roads Chapter of the International Live Events Association (ILEA) where she advanced the local scene by creating an inclusive community dedicated to elevating professionals engaged in live events.

President Williams shared, “The timing of Ms. Roberts’ appointment could not be better. She has the expertise and footprint to elevate our processes and experiences that will open doors and fill rooms.”

Roberts has rendered dynamic results for corporations, non-profit organizations, celebrities, brands, and television production teams alongside partnerships with marketing agencies to procure pre-screenings of television shows and movies such as “A Birth of a Nation.” 

She has received industry recognition from The International Live Events Association (ILEA), World Wide Women Group (WWWG), and Still Hope Foundation. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from Old Dominion University.

Ms. Apryl Roberts said, “Great experiences are measured by execution and I am committed to delivering the best to the Hampton University community. I am honored to join the President’s Office and drive new strategies to elevate Hampton excellence!”

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