By Christian Thomas | Script Editor-in-Chief The usual crowd of students at the university Chick-Fil-A shifted over to the newest spot on the block, Milked. A crunchy, sugary, and savory trifecta is sure to shake things up at Hampton University’s Student Center. On…
By Christian Thomas | Script Editor-in-Chief Papers are flying out of printers and into students’ pockets at Hampton University after the school installed 20 self service printing stations around the campus. On Dec. 12, HU joined more than 100 colleges and universities around…
By Brooklyn Lewis | Script Writer Mental health is a growing concern for journalism students as they watch the political and global world changing, so student Kennedy Scales organized a mental health event for the students of Scripps Howard School of Journalism and…
By Christian Thomas | Script Editor-in-Chief Do not look at the sun during Monday’s solar eclipse. Do not! The message of Virginia’s Department of Transportation (VDOT) is clear. Drivers need to keep their eyes off of the sun and on the road during…
By Morgan Norris Washington, D.C. – As a select group of HBCU student journalists sat in the White House briefing room on Feb. 23 not knowing what to expect, the Vice President of the United States and Senior Advisor for Public Engagement gave…
HU Basketball Players Read and Talk to the Little Knights of Barron Elementary School By O’Shay Jelks | Staff Writer Hampton basketball player Marquis Godwin reads to a class of children at Barron Elementary School. Photo approved by Hampton City Schools. By O’Shay…
Grace Elizabeth Hackney | Staff Writer The fashion community has taken a hit in these past few months. The unexpected death of Virgil Abloh in November and Andre Leon Talley in January have left many creatives, especially Black creatives, in the fashion industry…
Sydney McCall | Staff Writer A nearly all-white jury convicted three men of the killing of Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old Black man killed in Georgia on Feb. 23, 2021, after three men chased and killed him. The verdict came days after the not-guilty…
Alfred Johnson | Staff Writer As Christmas gets closer, many of us find ourselves scrambling to get the perfect gift, if not for our family and friends, then for ourselves too. There is an incredible amount of pressure surrounding the search. We’re all…
By Michael Sagers | Script Writer At the entrance of the “Caf,” a television screen greets students with upcoming information for the month. Walking into the Hampton University dining hall, there’s a familiar hum of activity, but also an undeniable sense of something…
By Aaliyah Pollard and Jordyn Isaacs | Staff Writers Missy Elliott talks to reporters after Portsmouth’s street dedication ceremony. By Ayan Harris The Hampton Roads’ city of Portsmouth, Virginia recently honored their most revered local legend. Grammy Award-winning recording artist Missy Elliott returned…
Ja’Nia Keith | Script Writer According to scientists at Boston University, when the seasons change, they can also change your mood. With the warm spring weather here, spring cleaning can benefit your mind, body, and dorm. Psychology professors and students reflect on how…
By Nyla Cross | Script Writer Snoop Dogg as Jaycen Jenning motivates youth football players in Amazon original film, “The Underdoggs.” Photo courtesy of Amani Tafari It promises to be a great year for Black stories , arts and entertainment. The Color Purple…
“Not your mama’s ‘Color Purple,’ but your mama’s gonna love it, too,” – Oprah Winfrey By Trinity Polk | Script Section Editor (L-r) FANTASIA BARRINO as Celie and TARAJI P. HENSON as Shug Avery in Warner Bros. Pictures’ bold new take on a…
“The secret is, it’s not the chocolate that matters, It’s the people you share it with.” By Trinity Polk | Script Section Editor TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET as Willy Wonka in Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures’ “WONKA,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Image…
By Beyonca Banks | Script Writer Freshman forward Jerry Deng saved the day for the Pirates, hitting two key three-pointers in the final minutes of the game. The Hampton University’s men’s basketball team emerged victorious in a thrilling game against Howard, with a…
By Beyonca Banks | Script Writer Hampton, VA – In a highly competitive Coastal Athletic Association matchup, the Hampton University Pirates were narrowly defeated on Jan. 15 by the North Carolina A&T Aggies with a final score of 81-80. The game, televised on…
HU Basketball Players Read and Talk to the Little Knights of Barron Elementary School By O’Shay Jelks | Staff Writer Hampton basketball player Marquis Godwin reads to a class of children at Barron Elementary School. Photo approved by Hampton City Schools. By O’Shay…
The Bailey’s Beads effect is seen as the moon makes its final move over the sun during the total solar eclipse on Monday, August 21, 2017 above Madras, Oregon. Image by Aubrey Gemignani/NASA
Do not look at the sun during Monday’s solar eclipse. Do not!
The message of Virginia’s Department of Transportation (VDOT) is clear. Drivers need to keep their eyes off of the sun and on the road during Monday’s solar eclipse.
Drivers will be tempted to watch as the moon’s shadow washes darkness over much of the contingent United States, the first since 2017’s ‘Great American Eclipse’.
“Do not pull over and park on the shoulders or ramps of the highways to view or photograph the eclipse, choose a safe location to stop and see the celestial event, after choosing a safe viewing location, be sure to exit your vehicle cautiously,”VDOT said in a news releaseFriday.
The eclipse will begin on the Peninsula at 2:02 p.m. and end at 4:31 p.m.
The coveted Bailey’s Beads effect during the peak will not be visible from Hampton, nearly 80 percent of the moon’s coverage should be able to be seen.
At 3:21 p.m., the sun will resemble more of a crescent shape when the eclipse reaches its peak.
How to watch
While the glimmering sun lurks behind the moon’s pitch-black silhouette, eclipse watchers will find it hard to take their eyes off of the rare sight. Eyewear is absolutely required to protect the eyes from the sun’s blinding rays.
While sunglasses may seem like a good choice, they do not protect your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun.
“Wear eye protection throughout the entire eclipse: Whether you’re witnessing a partial or total eclipse, it’s essential to wear your eclipse glasses or use solar filters for the entire duration of the event,” according to VDOT’s release. “Never remove your eye protection while looking directly at the sun, even if it appears dimmed during a partial eclipse.”
Also, viewers should inspect their glasses for any impurities like scratches, pinholes or tears that could potentially compromise their safety.
Eclipse eye glasses are on sale for $1 at state park visitor centers and gift shops throughout Virginia.Viewers can also attach solar filters to their optical devices as peering through the viewfinder of a telescope or a pair of binoculars may result in severe eye damage.
For more information regarding retinal safety throughout the eclipse, visit The American Society of Retinal Specialists’ digital information guide.
Where to watch
Starting at 2:00 p.m., Pirates can ditch class and watch Monday’s eclipse on Bemis Lawn during Hampton University’s Town Hall Cookout. Class excuse notes and viewing glasses will be available for students in attendance.
Virginia’s Conservation and Recreation department released a comprehensive list of state parks and eclipse watch events for safe viewing experiences across the state.
In just a short drive, you can watch the eclipse and dabble in the celebratory events at York River State Park, Machicomoco State Park or False Cape State Park.
NASA Wallops Center is also hosting an “unforgettable” viewing experience accompanied by their thrilling multi-rocket launch event.
The usual crowd of students at the university Chick-Fil-A shifted over to the newest spot on the block, Milked.
A crunchy, sugary, and savory trifecta is sure to shake things up at Hampton University’s Student Center.
On Jan. 12, students rushed to be the first to try a selection of sweet and salty treats from HU’s newest restaurant, Milked.
From velvety milkshake blends and salty bacon, to sweet buttermilk waffles, students got to satisfy their sweet tooth with a few of the restaurant’s delectable flavors.
At Milked’s first tasting event, students were invited to try the goods.
There were cereal bars, novelty milkshakes, and waffle sandwiches.
“We wanted to be able to give a little bit of balance between healthy, comfort options as well as some fun options to round the variety,” said Daniella Smallwood, Vice President of Marketing and Programing at Thompson Hospitality. “There was space to have a little bit of fun.”
Milked will join Chick-Fil-A, Pizza Hut, and BRB.
“It’s super exciting,” Smallwood said. “We’re glad to have it. This is the third HBCU that we’ve been able to put this concept in and it has been going well. We’re glad to bring it to Hampton.”
Since Thompson Hospitality partnered with HU on June 30, the company has worked to improve the university’s dining experience through cafeteria renovations, menu diversity, and food accessibility initiatives.
Over the winter break, the food service provider worked alongside HU construction partner, Bernhard Construction, to bring life to the previously vacant HU coffee shop.
“This is one of our restaurants that we consider to be a whimsical, kind of fun place to break the monotony up,” Smallwood said.
The restaurant’s vibrant hot pink, blue, and yellow design exaggerates its quirky assortment of sandwiches, cereal bars, and milkshakes.
“Milked, we call ‘Waffle and What nots’ because you have a little bit of everything,” Smallwood said. “It’s anchored by our waffle sandwiches. You can build them how you want to. If you want to treat yourself, you can make a waffle sandwich. That’s where the ‘waffle’ comes from and for the ‘what not’ we have novelty milkshakes.”
Despite its sugary persona, Milked also offers healthier alternatives like its turkey and veggie sausage proteins, gluten-free peanut butter protein bars, and cherry, strawberry, and crushed pineapple toppings.
At Friday’s tasting event, students shared their surprise with the unique flavors.
“The ice cream machine is broken in the cafeteria,” Jasmine Brockington, a second-year journalism student, said. “It’s cool that we have an ice cream place now.”
Still, students felt the new flavors may not justify the prices.
“Some of the prices are a little high,” Brockington said. “Like $9.99 for a milkshake when at Chick-fil-A it’s like $5. It might be a touch and go.”
Darah Derios, a second year journalism major, agreed,
“I think the waffle sandwiches are fine, but as far as the milkshakes, the specialty milkshakes are $10,” Derios said. “On one hand they’re specialty, you get a whole slice of cheesecake with one, with one you get cotton candy. I’m not going to come here everyday, but if I want to spoil myself, I wouldn’t mind paying the $10.”
Papers are flying out of printers and into students’ pockets at Hampton University after the school installed 20 self service printing stations around the campus.
On Dec. 12, HU joined more than 100 colleges and universities around the country in implementing the cloud based printing service, Wireless Everywhere Print Anywhere (Wēpa).
The collegiate print management service offers colleges and universities an ideal “Pay-for-Print” solution that allows students and faculty the opportunity to print at any registered device through the Wēpa system.
In turn, users can securely upload and print documents using the system’s Wēpa print mobile app.
“What we wanted to do was make it so that resident halls and the actual academic buildings had all of the printing systems,” Tyrone Joseph, an HU Help Desk technician, said. “Wanting to be able to have access wherever you’re at that you’ll be able to access those types of documents via the cloud so that you can have them at all times.”
The decision to expand the university’s printing stations came as an effort to provide more convenient and cost effective printing measures for students on campus.
Prior to the integration, in order for students to print documents on campus, students would have to locate an accessible print station, login to a nearby computer, and print their documents through Google Workspace or an external drive.
Now, all students have to do is open the Wēpa print app, select the files that they wish to print, walk to the nearest printing station, and scan their mobile device to release their documents.
“It makes it a lot easier to access the information that you would need and be able to get it in a timely manner. That’s the real thing, being able to cut the time as much as possible,” Joseph said.
Despite the university installing 20 stations around campus, Joseph remains confident that, with Wēpa’s cloud management system, issues like a lack of paper, ink, and toner will be a worry of the past for students.
“I can see if the printers are low, I can see if the toner is low, I can see if the papers are low and all of that is managed through the Wēpa printing system,” Joseph said. “It’s really imperative that we have them, because if the paper comes out, that’s the only time students would get charged for it. If it doesn’t come out, students don’t get charged for it. Not only does it save consumables, but it saves students’ money.”
In the unlikely scenario where the user is charged for a document that the printer failed to print correctly, users are encouraged to reach out to the company’s 24/7 customer support system to receive a refund.
Wēpa’s accessibility, customer support measures, and lengthy list of trusted partners became the deciding factor for HU when the university became a part of the Wēpa print family.
“When you log in, you can see how many different schools already have that,” Joseph said. “Unfortunately, we’re catching up to what a lot of other schools are doing right now and because of that, we can see a better light in the instance where now it’s coming so much for the future.”
“I’m loving the steps that we’re taking to get into that better light to where it’s more futuristic, easy to do, and convenient. Conveniency is the real key,” Joseph said.
To print using the Wēpa system, download the Wēpa print app. Select your school, login using your Microsoft 365 account, and locate a nearby printer.
It’s almost impossible to miss the booming music, festive hats, and high energy from this particular student as he walks around campus. Yet, people continuously fail to put a name to the face.
“Do not be afraid to be yourself and speak your mind,” says Zackary Meggett, otherwise known as “The Hat Guy.”
Meggett is a third-year air traffic control major from Howard County, Maryland. If you were to ask him why he presents himself the way he does he would admit that aside from thinking the hats look cool, he originally wore them as an “overcompensation” because he had to cut his hair for military purposes.
“The more that I wear them the more sentimental value they have because a good portion of my hats came from the people I love,” said Meggett.
He has a hat from his girlfriend and a few from his mom. Wearing them keeps his loved ones in mind. Since each of the hats carries sentimental value he takes turns wearing them.
“Sometimes halfway through the day I might switch hats, it just depends on how I’m feeling,” said Meggett.
Despite the common misconception, Meggett’s hats are not the source of his music. He carries around a Bluetooth speaker in his bag which plays music from his phone. His choice to broadcast his music is for the purpose of spreading positivity around campus.
“I’m trying to make college not seem so bad,” Megget said.
There’s no specific pattern that he follows or order of music that he plays, he just plays what he thinks will be enjoyed by others. His favorite song is “Waves” by Mr.Probz and he’s been listening to it since it came out. He even sang this song on a cruise ship during his mother’s 50th birthday celebration for karaoke, and according to him, “rocked the boat.”
Meggett says that if he were to title anyone in his life as his hero it would be his mother. She has taught him how to put his best into everything that he does.
“Even when the going gets tough she would always keep me going and encourage me knowing that I could do better even at my lowest points,” Meggett said.
Not a lot of people are aware but Meggett is a transfer student from Louisiana State University, and he expresses that his mother was his number one supporter when he decided to transfer despite the challenges it came with. Now he admits that he has prospered immensely since being here at Hampton.
Aside from both inspiring and entertaining the student body, Meggett is also a part of ROTC and a member of the military-focused Greek organization, Pershing Rifles.
In the future, he hopes to use his training to get a job in the military. Eventually, he wants to work with aircraft and then finally make his way to a control tower where he’ll be an air traffic controller.
“I don’t care where I work as long as it’s not Atlanta because they have one of the busiest airports in the world,” said Meggett.
Although he may bring a smile to everyone’s face daily, students remain curious about who this outstanding person is. Zackary Meggett is an aspiring military worker, a son, a friend, a leader, and an example to all of us on how to be our true selves.
At the entrance of the “Caf,” a television screen greets students with upcoming information for the month.
Walking into the Hampton University dining hall, there’s a familiar hum of activity, but also an undeniable sense of something new. The “Caf,” the heart of campus dining, has a revamped landscape including the sizzle of new stations, fresh menu additions, and a distinctively alternate layout. This is not just a menu update, but a change in approach to cultivating a smoother and tastier experience, students say.
A breakfast station has taken over Turntable’s old real estate. Before the winter break, Day N’ Nite was just an omelet station, but now it’s the cafeteria’s preeminent spot. Its expanded menu includes made-to-order french toast, pancakes, hash browns, and combo specials alongside its signature omelets as well as bacon, turkey bacon, sausage, grits, and oatmeal that are cooked and ready to go.
“I like to call it brunch all day because that’s exactly what you can do now Monday through Friday,” said campus dining’s Head of Marketing, Stacy Gibson. “That’s why it’s called Day N’ Nite, you can get breakfast all day and night here.”
Image by Kirsten Farrington/The Hampton Script
Students concerned over whether the days of Turntable’s homestyle fusion meals are coming to an end need not to worry as the line is now sharing its space with Day N’ Nite.
“I know the omelet station took up the whole thing in the back of the caf and now it’s just like a smaller section, so they’re putting something more useful that students will like in the space,” said first-year student Jared Wilder.
A tex-mex station will replace Day N’ Nite’s old spot.
“So every day there’ll be beef and chicken for you to build a burrito or a rice bowl here and that concept is called Austin Grill,” said Gibson.
The giant Day N’ Nite sign has been removed to make way for an Austin Grill sign.
Besides Austin Grill, more changes include the cafeteria’s expanded pasta bar (now with pasta bake), mediterranean bar, and a new burger station. Some options will remain including Rolling Dough, the dining hall’s pizza station, the vegan and vegetarian options at the main bar, and the content at Wok Steady and Sugar Rush (the Asian bistro and bakery).
Gibson shared that a big part of the cafeteria’s improvements involved putting a deeper focus on made-to-order meals to cater to students’ preference.
“What we’re seeing now with a lot of Gen Z students is that they want the utmost control over what they eat,” Gibson said. “That’s why we brought in the made-to-order grill for you to say hey, I would like a veggie burger. I would like a beef burger.”
Students said they were pleased with the changes.
“They now have this combo where you can get pancakes, eggs and a piece of meat. I like that a lot,” said first-year student Madison Baldwin.
The expansions of made-to-order and build-your-own stations increase variety, Gibson shared.
“That gives them back the authority of choosing what they want and how they want their food customized, so that they feel like they’re receiving exactly what they want when they come into the dining space,” said Gibson.
Not everyone is thrilled.
“I usually go to the omelet station and the pizza station’s usually good too, but I feel like the line’s kind of crazy, how long it is,” said third-year student RJ Phipps.
During the dining hall’s busiest hours, the front area can become congested with lines that wrap around. The bottleneck has many students complaining about the long wait times.
“I liked that there are more options, but the lines are still really long so I feel like it hasn’t done much to help. I wish there could be something done about that,” said first-year student Aria Watson.
The lines amplify an issue that has persisted even before the winter break–long queues wrapping around familiar service spaces. When it comes to fixing issues and making future improvements the call for more space and efficiency is a recurring theme.
“I think we need a bigger caf, to be honest. Like I feel like we just have too many students and not enough space,” said Phipps.
Baldwin agrees with Phipps’ comments and he believes that a better means of food distribution is necessary.
“I just don’t think that the caf has an effective way of how to serve this many students at once,” said Baldwin.
In addition to reducing wait times, students are calling for improvements in cleanliness and the overall quality of the food.
“I’m glad it’s edible now. I was very iffy about coming because it was always half raw. But you know, it’s pretty good now, I guess.”
Wilder echoed concerns about the dining experience, specifically addressing problems with plates and utensils.
“The cleanliness of the plates and forks–compared to last semester, a lot of times like the plates aren’t ready or the forks aren’t ready.”
Mental health is a growing concern for journalism students as they watch the political and global world changing, so student Kennedy Scales organized a mental health event for the students of Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications in the Scripps auditorium.
Scales, a third-year journalism major from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is on the executive board of WHOV-TV, and serves as Miss WHOV-TV for the 2022-2023 school year. She named her event “Mind Over Media,” and aimed to help young journalists, especially Black journalists, in the media industry.
“Although it is important to stay on top of stories and inform the community, it is even more important to make sure you are taking care of yourself,” said Scales. “The stronger your mind is, the better you can perform.”
As host/moderator, Scales had three guest speakers, including journalists and a psychologist, talk about how to maintain mental health as a journalist.
“When Kennedy reached out to talk about mental health, it was super important to me because I have dealt with anxiety and depression along the way and it all started when I got my first job,” said Aesia Toliver, a morning anchor at WAVY TV.
Students asked panelists how their employers support their mental health.
“Representation is huge, and there is a lack of representation in the leadership across our field,” said Eugene Daniel III Co-anchor at 13 News Now Day Break.
“In the aftermath of the tragedy of George Floyd, the toll on Black journalists has been great”, Daniel said. However, his managers, composed of all white journalists, could not understand how much it was affecting him and other Black journalists. “Community became critical”, he said, “including being surrounded by a group of people who you can express true feelings to.”
“Being able to have a space that you can go to after covering difficult stories to process that information is important whether it’s a therapist or with a community,” said Dr. Kristie Norwood licensed psychologist, director of the counseling center, and a professor at Hampton University.
Students said these answers were helpful.
“Working within this field you have to put on this persona that you are the superhero, while deep down inside this could be affecting you in many ways,” said Cheyenne Brown, a second-year journalism major.
Afterward, students mingled with the guest speakers. “I think that the panelist and host did a phenomenal job,” said Logan-Alexandra Russell, a third-year journalism major.
“This was a conversation that needed to be had and one that is not talked about enough in the media industry.”
Freshman forward Jerry Deng saved the day for the Pirates, hitting two key three-pointers in the final minutes of the game.
The Hampton University’s men’s basketball team emerged victorious in a thrilling game against Howard, with a close score of 63-61 at the Prudential Center at the Invesco QQQ Legacy Classic in Newark, New Jersey on Feb. 3.
Pirates Forward, Jerry Deng, played a crucial role in securing the win for the Pirates, as the game’s leading scorer with 21 points.
Deng’s performance was outstanding, providing the Pirates with crucial baskets when they needed them the most. Additionally, Ja’Von Benson displayed his defensive prowess by setting a new career-high in blocks with seven.
The game started with Hampton scoring the first points through a layup from Joshua Lusane. The Pirates initially dominated the rebounding battle, grabbing three offensive rebounds before the first media timeout. However, Howard responded with a 7-0 run, taking advantage of Hampton’s scoring drought. It was freshman Jerry Deng who ended the four-minute drought for the Pirates with a layup in transition.
Both teams struggled to score after the under-12-minute media timeout. Hampton’s defense held Howard to a dismal 28 percent shooting from the field in the first 10 minutes. Deng ignited the Pirates’ offense from beyond the arc after missing their first five attempts. With turnovers forced by Coach Edward Joyner Jr.’s squad, Hampton only trailed by one point at the next media timeout.
Howard managed to take a nine-point lead, the largest of the game, with a score of 30-18. However, Joshua Lusane and Jerry Deng stepped up for the Pirates, bringing them back within five points. Deng led Hampton in scoring during the first half, contributing 10 points off the bench, while Lusane, in his first start since January 6th, closely followed with eight points. Howard made a layup just before the end of the half, increasing their lead to seven.
Image by Jaleaha Coates/The Hampton Script
Hampton guard Jordan Nesbitt stepped up big in the win over Howard, pouring in 17 points, grabbing five rebounds, and dishing five assists.
In the second half, Hampton’s defense shut down Howard’s offense. The team’s strong defensive presence, led by Ja’Von Benson, played a crucial role in shutting down Howard’s offense. Hampton’s improved shooting in the second half and their ability to make crucial plays in the closing minutes were key factors in their success. The Bison went over four minutes without a field goal early in the half, thanks to the strong defensive presence of Ja’Von Benson, who finished the game with a career-high seven blocks. The Pirates improved their shooting in the second half, hitting 46.2 percent from the field. They managed to close the gap to just four points before the six-minute mark.
Despite Howard taking another double-digit lead with five minutes remaining, Hampton fought back to bring it within one possession. With Howard making free throws in the final minutes, they held a four-point lead with just 1:16 left on the clock. However, Jerry Deng continued to shine for the Pirates, hitting back-to-back threes in the final minute to give Hampton a two-point lead. Coach Joyner Jr.’s team displayed excellent defensive skills, preventing the Bison from scoring and securing the win by making free throws in the closing seconds.
After the game, Deng expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, “I have that confidence because I put in the work. When it comes to showcasing it on the court, it’s gonna showcase itself every time.”
With their star freshman in action, the Pirates appear poised to build on this success and continue toward further victories.
Hampton, VA – In a highly competitive Coastal Athletic Association matchup, the Hampton University Pirates were narrowly defeated on Jan. 15 by the North Carolina A&T Aggies with a final score of 81-80. The game, televised on CBS Sports Network, served as a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and highlighted the skill and competitiveness of both historically Black universities.
The game was a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with 11 ties and 10 lead changes. The Pirates held the lead for a total of 14 minutes and 50 seconds, while the Aggies led for 14 minutes and 55 seconds. The teams were tied for 10 minutes and 15 seconds, making for an exciting and closely contested game.
North Carolina A&T’s point guard, Camian Shell, was the standout player of the night. Shell demonstrated exceptional skills and composure, finishing the game with 19 points, eight assists, and zero turnovers. His one-handed runner off the backboard with 1.2 seconds remaining secured the victory for the Aggies.
Despite the loss, the Pirates put up a strong fight. Five players from Hampton University scored in double figures, with forward Jerry Deng leading the team with 17 points. Deng’s impressive shots kept the game competitive. Guard and graduate student Tedrick Wilcox Jr. dominated the boards with nine rebounds, while Guard Jordan Nesbitt showcased his playmaking abilities, leading the team with five assists.
Both teams displayed resilience and determination throughout the game. With this win, the Aggies improved their conference record to 2-2 and their overall record to 4-13. The Hampton University Pirates now have a 0-5 record in league play and a 4-13 overall record. They will aim to bounce back in their upcoming games against Northeastern on Thursday and William & Mary on Saturday.
The game between these two historically Black universities showcased the talent and competitive spirit of both teams, a fitting tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Student Film Organization is hosting its Second Annual Film Festival at Hampton from April 11-13, providing an opportunity for students and faculty members to share their films.
“The three-day-long event includes workshops, film screenings, and special guests all dedicated to emphasizing the film culture here at Hampton University,” said third-year Jaleaha Coates, President of SFO.
Students and faculty will present films they wrote, directed, acted in, or shot. Each film entry will be analyzed by specialized critics and the finalist with the highest scores will be announced on the last day during the gala.
This year’s gala theme is a masquerade ball. There will be a larger number of student submissions as well as expanded awards ranging from musical scoring to costumes.
“We are all working as one to figure out the best plans of action to make the event run smoothly,” said third-year Ayan Ar-Raheem Harris, director of festivals.
Fundraising for this event is critical. Students are hosting a fundraising event to showcase the movie, “Queen and Slim” on Feb. 16.
Meanwhile, each director is finalizing their scripts, hiring actors, scouting locations, and filming.
“You’re constantly thinking, do I need to get extra equipment to make this easier, or is there something I can cut back on so that I can streamline the process,” said first-year student Jalon Reed, a member of the social media committee.
Each film has three parts, Reed said, including, “the one in your head, the one that you shoot, and the one that you edit.” Editing is one of the best parts of filmmaking because film students get the chance to witness their ideas come to life.
Making change is a big goal for some of the students in Cinema Studies who will present.
Second-year Cianna Montgomery put a lot of contemplation into her choice to be a Cinema Studies major because most of her friends aspired to be doctors or lawyers.
“Entertainment can honestly motivate people in more ways than you think. I want to tell stories that have an impact on Black youth to steer them in the right direction,” said Montgomery, head of social media for SFO.
SFO wants to incorporate the film festival into the school’s culture to showcase creative peers who don’t get a lot of attention.
“With the student film festival specifically, we get to highlight the experiences of our peers but also see in depth the possible future award-winning directors,” SFO Director Harris said.
Flyers for student casting and how to submit a film will be distributed. For more information follow the SFO on Instagram @hu_sfo.
To kick off the Spring semester, the Hampton University Student Government Association Senate has passed several bills to better Hampton University including suggested changes to the Student Handbook regarding freedom of expression and “to improve financial clarity regarding where tuition money goes.”
Several bills address long-heard complaints to “improve the sanitation of the dining hall.”
Last semester, a survey was circulated asking students to share their thoughts on the dining hall’s food options, sanitation, and inclusivity for dietary restrictions.
“As someone who pays a lot of attention to cleanliness and detail, the dirty dishes, cross-contamination, and other FDA violations I noticed were a concern for me,” said Senator Jada Auston, a first-year strategic communications major. “I decided to write a bill for the improvement of the cleanliness of the Caf.”
Auston’s bill has already made changes, she believes.
Another bill addresses alleged invasion of privacy during unannounced room searches.
“Students were awakened with anxiety at one o’clock in the morning to have their room searched by Hampton University staff, and myself and my peers were very unhappy with that type of treatment. So, I felt the need to speak up for everyone within my student government rule,” Auston said.
Senator Jaedyn Wilson, a first-year political science major had her bill passed requiring mandated days and times of the week for welfare checks. “When crafting a bill, you need data and actual facts from the school’s websites and the administrators,” said Wilson.
Bills are crafted to address the student body’s concerns and are well-researched in providing thorough and appropriate responses to students’ concerns, she said.
“When a bill is passed, it is then presented to President Williams and his team for further discussion and deliberation. After that happens, you see the bill and what it asks for on campus. You may see it implemented the following semester, as in, the following school year,” Wilson said.
Christin Fluellen, a second-year journalism major from Detroit, Michigan, and secretary of the 50th SGA Senate, believes the student body will benefit from the bills because the senators can draw on their experiences to help their fellow Hamptonians.
“The bills positively affect the student body because the Senate listens to their concerns. For example, most of the bills we write are based on student experiences, complaints, or just stuff we’ve experienced. We’re senators, but we’re students first, so we know what students need,” said Fluellen.
Fluellen is particularly proud of the bill concerning the construction in progress on campus.
“Several of our senators wrote a bill about construction, so we can send emails before construction to know what paths and routes are blocked off. I think that will be impactful,” she said.
More information on the Senate’s bills can be found on their Instagram page, @senate.hamptonu.
The Hampton Script 