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

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

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

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

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

Hampton, Va. (October 28, 2022) — Six Hampton University students have recently earned official university endorsements for the prestigious U.S. Rhodes Scholarship.  Under the direction of Hampton University’s new President Darrell K. Williams, Hampton University deans were encouraged to nominate their strongest possible undergraduate contenders for the extraordinary post-graduate scholarship to Oxford University.  The result was that the following six Hampton University graduating seniors, all with “A” academic averages, were encouraged to apply for the Rhodes Scholarship: 

– Ms. Niara Chaney, an electrical engineering major, mentor to TRIO Program students, and member of the Society of Women in Engineering

– Ms. Kamaria Horton, a computer science major and a track-and-field scholar-athlete

– Mr. Myles Ragins, an electrical engineering major and mathematics minor, who is also a percussionist in the Hampton University band

– Ms.  Imani Porter, a biochemistry major, member of the William R. Harvey Leadership Institute, and the lead author of a recently published manuscript based on experiments conducted by HU undergraduates in a Hampton University laboratory

– Mariah Smith, a pre-law member of the Freddye T. Davy Honors College, Greer Dawson Wilson Student Leadership Program, and the William R. Harvey Leadership Institute. Ms. Smith is an economics major with a minor in leadership studies

– Ms. Zyen Smoot, an English (Creative Writing) major at Hampton University, poet, literary magazine editor, and aspiring publisher/professor with a perfect 4.0 GPA

“These fine Hampton University candidates – one young man and five young women — are absolutely exceptional,” said  Dr. Carlton Long, the Director of the Freddye T. Davy Honors College at Hampton University, and a former U.S. Rhodes Scholar himself.  “They are certainly destined to achieve great things, to solve big problems and forge important pathways forward for their generation, our society, and indeed the world.  Hampton University is extremely proud to endorse these humble and brilliant people for Rhodes Scholarships.  They stand on the shoulders of persons who make up the proud legacy of Hampton University and they also represent, simply put, the ‘best and brightest’ of their generation.”

“Hampton University takes great pride in nurturing and developing leaders who excel and achieve above and beyond our expectations,” said Dr. JoAnn Haysbert, Hampton University’s Chancellor and Provost. “These young scholars are perfect examples of the ‘best and the brightest’ students here at Hampton University. We are confident that they will continue to demonstrate character and excellence in all that they do.”

HAMPTON, Va. (Oct. 14, 2022) – Sentara has provided funding to Hampton University for a program entitled: Diversifying the Healthcare Workforce to Create Healthier Communities. The gift is $850,000 and is designed to increase and grow the number of diverse healthcare professionals in Hampton Roads and to combat challenges in the delivery of healthcare to underserved populations.  

The funded program elements include:

• Sentara Healthcare – Current Use Scholarship for Nursing Students
  • Provides academic support to students in four-year Nursing degree programs in Health Sciences and Community Health Promotion, as well as the RN to BSN degree programs, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Information Management, Physical Therapy, Pre-Medical, Occupational Therapy and other similar health professions.
• Sentara Healthcare – Endowed Scholarship for Nursing Students
  • Provides academic support to students in four-year Nursing degree programs in Health Sciences and Community Health Promotion, as well as the RN to BSN degree programs. Recipients may be of sophomore, junior, or senior classification, hold a minimum 2.75 cumulative grade point average, and demonstrate financial need, as determined by the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships.
• Sentara Healthcare – Community Engagement Program
  • The Community Health & Wellness Mobile Clinic will serve targeted areas of healthcare education needs in Hampton Roads. It is an outreach and health initiative to build stronger and healthier communities in the region. The focus is to provide healthcare education services for those in underserved urban communities as well as those in rural areas. The activities to be managed by HU faculty and students will include screenings to help in the identification of chronic diseases. Screenings will include those for vision, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar/capillary tests, risk-for-fall screenings, body mass indices, and COVID-19. 
  • Following are among the organizations that are invited to be part of the outreach program.

• Newport News Public City Schools
• Hampton Public City Schools
• Somerset at Town Center
• Sinclair Commons
• Olde Towne Medical & Dental Clinic
• The Woodlands
• Western Tidewater Free Clinic (Suffolk)
• Surry High School
• Newport News Department of Social Services & Department of Health 

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. Research and public service are integral parts of Hampton’s mission. In achieving its mission, Hampton University offers exemplary programs and opportunities that enable students, faculty and staff to grow, develop and contribute to our society in a productive and useful manner.

About Sentara Healthcare

Sentara Healthcare has a long history of innovation, compassion and community benefit. Sentara Healthcare is a not-for-profit healthcare organization serving Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Sentara Healthcare is comprised of 12 acute care hospitals with more than 300 sites of care all throughout Virginia and northeastern North Carolina and beyond. Sentara Healthcare celebrates more than 130 years in pursuit of its mission – “we improve health every day.” Sentara is an integrated, not-for-profit health care delivery system with more than 29,000 employees, including 1,375 physicians and advanced practice providers. 

#HU#

HAMPTON, VA (Nov. 3, 2022) – Hampton University Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications is pleased to announce two outstanding students have each received scholarship awards from RF|Binder, a New York City-based strategic communications and consulting firm.  

Receiving the 2022-2023 scholarship are Zoë Beavers, a senior from Jefferson City, Mo., and Andrianna Lovelace, a junior from Wash., D.C. Both are strategic communications majors. RF|Binder awards the scholarships to outstanding female students with a major in strategic communications. In addition to the financial award, the students will receive one-on-one mentoring, leadership development training, and industry networking opportunities. Further, RF|Binder actively recruits from Hampton University for its prestigious Associate Program, that offers recent graduates the potential opportunity to join the New York-headquartered agency full-time after graduation.

“We are very proud of Zoë and Andrianna and excited to have them represent our school,” said Julia A. Wilson, dean of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications. “Their competitive submissions have raised the standard of excellence and set a new paradigm for future students to emulate. We are honored to expand our partnership with RF|Binder and look forward to our students receiving real-world experience to support their growth into public relations professionals.”

The RF|Binder and Scripps Howard School scholarship awards program started in 2021. For 2022-2023, the PR consultancy has doubled the financial award for each student recipient.

“These two students exhibited the drive, passion, and dedication for success that made it clear in my conversations with them that they wanted to achieve excellence,” said Rebecca Binder, president of RF|Binder. “This year’s group of candidates was exceptional, and we continue to be impressed with the caliber of students from the Hampton University Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications. We have been honored to partner with Hampton University and work with the students closely, we look forward to continuing to see the amazing things the students and alums will do.” 

About RF|Binder

RF|Binder is a fully integrated communications and consulting firm – powered by strategy, creativity, analytics, and purpose. The company addresses challenges and opportunities with a communications mindset, enabling clients to build, grow, protect, transform their brands and reputations. RF|Binder’s purpose is to empower its clients and staff to have impact for their clients’s brands and customers. RF|Binder’s mission is to build market leaders. “We build, grow, protect, and transform brands and reputations.” RF|Binder is headquartered in New  York City, with offices in Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and a global presence through PROI Worldwide partners, an association of leading public relations firms in 100 cities across 50 countries. (Website: https://rfbinder.com/) 

About Hampton University 

The Hampton University Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications is committed to preparing its students with a high-quality and well-rounded education for global careers in journalism and strategic communications. SHSJC emphasizes accuracy, balance, fairness, integrity, and high ethical standards of excellence through journalism and strategic communications. The Scripps Howard brand is internationally renowned as an educational foundation that promotes, supports, and enables aspiring journalists. (Website: https://home.hamptonu.edu/shsjc/) 

~ Hampton Alum Wanda Sykes Makes Major Contribution~

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HAMPTON, Va. Oct. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#HU#

HAMPTON, Va. (Sept. 30, 2022) — On June 30th, Hampton University’s very own Dr. Freeman Hrabowski, graduating class of 1970 and the legendary president of the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC), retired after 30 years of historic service to the institution he transformed into a leader in STEM education. 

During Dr. Hrabowski’s three-decade tenure at UMBC, he utilized a data-driven plan to assist at-risk students by establishing a support system for them, and he transformed entry level courses with the goal of increasing retention numbers for freshmen, to one of his many accomplishments. 

“Dr. Freeman Hrabowski has been a truly transformative leader at the University of Maryland Baltimore County for the last 30 years,” said Darrell K. Williams. “His intellect, experience, visionary leadership and overall presence will be sorely missed in higher education. Dr. Hrabowski has more than lived up to THE Standard of Excellence, that all Hamptonians aspire too, as he has unequivocally let his life do the singing.”

Under Hrawbowski’s leadership, UMBC transformed into an institution noted for research and innovation. From 2009 – 2014 UMBC was ranked by U.S. News & World Report magazine as the #1 Up and Coming University in the country. When that designation was eliminated UMBC was regularly listed among the Most Innovative National Universities.

Hrabowski’s published book and articles focused on minorities entering in the STEM fields. He is the co-author of the books Beating the Odds: Raising Academically Successful African American Males (1998); Overcoming the Odds: Raising Academically Successful African American Young Women (2001); Holding Fast to Dreams: Empowering Youth from the Civil Rights Crusade to STEM (2015); and The Empowered University: Shared Leadership, Culture Change, and Academic Success (2019).

Dr. Hrabowski is a consultant on science and math education to national agencies, universities, and school systems. He was named by President Obama to chair the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans. He also chaired the National Academies’ committee that produced the report, Expanding Underrepresented Minority Participation: America’s Science and Technology Talent at the Crossroads (2011). In 2011, Hrabowski received the Carnegie Corporation of New York’s Academic Leadership Award, one of the highest honors given to an educator. Several publications have named him one of America’s best leaders, one of the 100 most influential people in the world, and one of America’s 10 best college presidents.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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