Campus

The Most Highly Anticipated Homecoming Has Returned! HUHC168 Elevation Concert

hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Taylor Hawkins | Script Staff Writer

Hampton University’s annual homecoming concert has returned after three years on Oct. 20 in the Convocation Center. This event welcomed both students and non-students. This was a major event for Hampton University, as well as the Hampton Roads area.

For this year’s concert, artists Yung Bleu, Capella Gray, Iniko, and opener Sid Wells performed their biggest hits to amp up the crowd. Throughout Homecoming week students were lined up at the ticket booth in the student center waiting to get tickets.

The Onyx 12 class was the last class at Hampton University to experience an in-person concert and are excited to celebrate one last homecoming before graduation.

“It feels good to have the concert back and it gives me a chance to go out and enjoy my last homecoming and be with my peers because we don’t get to do that often,” said Jontaya Moore, senior journalism major, psychology minor.

Due to COVID-19 capacity regulations and vaccination requirements, the homecoming concert for 2020 and 2021 was unable to happen according to Calvin Harris, assistant director of student activities. 

“I think the concert coming back is a return to normalcy. I think homecoming is a positive week and it’s full of good energy and good vibes so having the concert coming back is just adding back into that,” said Noah Hogan, senior journalism major with an area of emphasis in cinema studies.

This year’s concert was hard to plan but with the help of the administration, the student leadership program, the student government association, and the student survey that was sent out, the office of student activities were able to accomplish what every student has been waiting for according to Harris.

“A lot of artists were not traveling at the time, so this year it was most important that the concert returned and it was a great success in being able to pull this off. A lot of artists’ prices were very high and many of them had already committed to other events this year that might have been postponed from last year so they were already under some type of retainer or contract so we were very limited from when our university decided to move forward with what was out there,” said Harris.

It was challenging working with the artists’ schedules since it is festival season and also trying to guarantee certain artists that uphold the Hampton University brand was a challenge according to Harris.

Harris believes that this concert was much needed for the student body because it is a chance for students, especially freshmen who are getting off of curfew to let loose for the first time.

“The concert is always that kickoff moment of homecoming. Here at Hampton University we kind of start off homecoming week very formally, so it’s a great way to enter the homecoming weekend,” Harris said.

Administration and students have had some of their best homecoming experiences at the concert and plan to create many more.

“The concert that sticks out the most is when we had Lil Uzi Vert because he was a well-known artist that people wanted to see. The energy around the concert was really, really high and we had people coming from other schools to come to our homecoming which we don’t see all the time,” said Hogan.

With success in planning this year’s HUHC168 Elevation concert, the student activity office is looking forward to what is in store for Springfest 2023.

Advertisement

2018 student elections: The new faces of change

Image hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Steven Hall | Staff Writer

SP8.png
From left, Jonathan Mack, Jordan McKinney and Kenneth Rioland III | Steven Hall

As the year approaches its end, SGA and class office elections went underway for the 2018-19 academic school year.

The positions up for grabs were the Student Government Association (SGA) president and vice president, student representative to the Board of Trustees and representative to the Organizational Board.

Along with those head titles are the respective leader positions for the rising senior class (Quintessence), junior class (Onyx) and sophomore class (Ogre Phi Ogre).

This year, there were several electoral places that only had one candidate, as they were running unopposed.

Taylor McIntyre, a junior communicative sciences and disorders major from Brooklyn, N.Y., was one of those unopposed candidates, but even so, McIntyre showed an immense amount of enthusiasm and eagerness along with the others who didn’t run against anyone.

“QTX is full of vibrant, hardworking students, whose goal is to obtain their degree but also get the most of their college experience,” McIntyre said.

Through the very meticulous and competitive election process, some candidates stood out by having already implemented change and results throughout the school year, such as freshman journalism major, Dahyo Coleman, who is from Cherry Hill, N.J.

From working with the Freshman Fashion Show to being a head over Freshman Week, Coleman has really been putting in the work as highly accredited “Freshman of Excellence.”

“These two major events required a diligent mind,” Coleman said.

“I work on a lot of flyers you saw this year from spring fest, to stuff for the freshman class as well as some candidates’ campaign materials. Being able to work under these deadlines and produce satisfying content was hard, but it let me practice my turnaround time.”

As elections ended March 13, many class and candidate favorites were picked to head over the student body.

Jonathan Mack, a sophomore kinesiology major from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and elected 2018-19 SGA vice president, was full of excitement when he heard of his great news.

“Thank you to those who entrusted me to be in this position! I will not take this job lightly and understand that the responsibilities that will be placed on me are much bigger than myself,” Mack said.

“This is a pivotal time for our university to continue to grow and for our student body to truly feel and see that their voices are being heard.

“Do not hesitate to approach me with any ideas, suggestions, comments, etc., that will help improve this campus. This will be a team effort, and I’m looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead. Let’s make it happen!”

The results for 2018-19 school year elections are as follows:

– SGA President Jordan McKinney

– SGA VP Jonathan Mack

– Student Representative to the Board of Trustees Kenneth Rioland III

– Senior Class President (QT) Michael Adams Jr.

– Senior Class VP (QT) Taylor

McIntyre

– Mister Senior Joshua Thompson

– Miss Senior Attendant Ashirah Curry

– Junior Class President (Onyx) John Mitchell

– Secretary Bailey Post

– Treasurer Brittany Mims

– Parliamentarian Jaelyn Magee

– Miss Junior Maya Thames

–  Mister Junior Robert Osborne

– Sophomore Class President (Ogre) Oshae Moore

– Sophomore Class VP Rabia Brown

– Representative to the Organizational Board Malcolm Stanley

With a team of hardworking student officials, the future of the HU

HU’s 5th annual Day of Giving

Image hamptonscriptLeave a comment

By Jaylen Harris and Chelsea Harrison

SP9
Ya-Marie Sesay

Hampton University kicked off its 5th annual HU Day of Giving with a packed Student Center Atrium with eager-to-serve students.

The celebration united students, faculty and staff from across the campus to promote awareness for the foundation’s initiative: Giving back to the university.

The 24-hour festivities highlighted the importance of philanthropy, unity and teamwork, all while giving the attendees a grand show.

The noon activities included music from DJ Barry B, live dance performances, a musical selection from the HU Marching Force band, an atrium scavenger hunt, and special appearances from 2018 Mr. Pirate, Chris Bates, and Miss Hampton Brooklyne Baker.

“I initially just stopped by the STU to get a peek at the event,” senior biology major Ashley Johnson said. “I ended up staying throughout the remainder of the afternoon because of all the cool, exciting and fun things going on.”

Student hosts Delaria Ridley, a senior strategic communications major, and HU’s Mr. Junior Sherman Grant hosted the day’s events.

Students mobbed social media platforms with hashtags and photo challenges such as the “All Day Challenge,” where attendees had to posts as many clips and pictures on their social media pages, along with other hourly challenges.

“I came on a good day. If this is what Hampton is about and how the environment of the school is, you may see me again,” said Jazmyn Harding, a local Hamptonian-to-be who was in the middle of a campus tour when she got to witness the celebration.

Along with the attendees and performers, Black Opal Beauty and representatives formed tables in the Student Center, promoting their make-up products and giving away small, sample gift bags. Students also were encouraged to partake in a Black Opal Beauty photo shoot using the BOB photo booth.

As Hamptonians often say, “If you weren’t there, you’re wrong,” for the festivities were ones to not miss.

Even though the celebration has come to an end, it still isn’t too late to donate. Visit onehampton.edu for more information.

 

 

 

2018 Founding Day celebrates legacy and legends

Image hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Steven Hall | Staff Writer

foiunders pic
 From left, Lt. Col. Claude Vann III and HU President Dr. William R. Harvey | Hampton University

An exquisite program was held on Easter Sunday April 1st, 2018 in Ogden Hall featuring Hampton’s own University Choir, Gospel (His Chosen Sounds) Choir and Concert Choir all under the direction of Choir Director Omar J. Dickenson.

On April 1st, 1868 a legacy began through the establishment of Hampton University, formerly known as Hampton Institute, through Brigadier General Samuel Chapman Armstrong.

Serving 40 years, President William R. Harvey has left a legendary mark on Hampton’s economic and social presence, not only among HBCU’s but nationally.

The program began promptly at 11am led by Reverend Dr. Debra L. Haggins.

Along with the 150 & 40 year anniversaries, the University also celebrates Dr. Haggins on going into her 10th year as the University Chaplain.

Earnest Pugh had the crowd clapping in their seats with the help of the choir during offering.

The crowd was moved to their feet throughout the event from Mr. Pugh’s vocal strength and vigor.

President Harvey took the time to explain the difference between Founding Day and Founder’s Day.

Hampton University’s Founders’ Day, January 28th is when we celebrate founder Samuel Chapman Armstrong’s legacy. April 1st, Founding Day is the celebration of Hampton University’s actual Founding Day.

Going further in his speech, Dr. Harvey spoke on the issues Armstrong faced like “haters, snakes and ignorant” people in his life, with the recent events that would ensue as he slowly brought his speech to an end.

During the program, Student Government Association President Martha Baye, gave a brief speech on the fine points on the historical overview of her Home By the Sea after 150 years.

At the end the service guest speaker, Dr. Michael A. Battle spoke strongly on surrounding yourself with supportive individuals to grow.

“Everyone needs someone to support them; A supporter and advocate,” said Battle.

“No one can bring you down if God is with you, she said in reference to Psalm 23:4.

After 150 years Armstrong dreams and hard work live on through President Harvey as he continues the legacy.

Preserving our 3 Cs: A new time, new change

Image hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Ya-Marie Sesay | Campus Editor

IMG_6207
Chelsea Harrison

In this year of celebration of Hampton University’s legacy, the university is also making a few changes. HU’s administration launched a new Quality Enhancement Plan: “Preserving our 3 Cs: Character, Community and Culture.”

This QEP is required for HU’s reaccreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); accreditation is what permits schools to remain degree-granting institutions of higher education. Hampton’s last accreditation was conducted in 2008.

By emphasizing these three Cs, Hampton University hopes to increase “students’ participation and engagement in learning experiences that foster a deeper understanding of the role of character, community and culture in their personal and professional lives,” HU said in the QEP.

With the help of the campus community, a survey was conducted to determine the character development and the code of conduct. Results from this survey inspired the idea for this QEP’s theme.

Hampton administration’s goal in the years to come is to keep students engaged through transformational programs and activities that will prepare them for professional careers and global issues.

To ensure the plan is executed for all freshmen students in the upcoming years, it will be implemented through a required course– University 101.

Posters and flyers have been placed all over campus, introducing the new plan to students.

“It’s a dynamic and innovative way to reaffirm Hampton’s fundamental principles of excellence in character, community, and culture in a way that is conductive to our new generation,” said SGA President Martha Baye.

SLP Week 2018: Surviving the week

Image hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Jaylen Harris | Staff Writer

IMG_6201IMG_6197

SLP applicants daily photo challenge submissions | Arleena Allen & Tangela Wilhite

Did you face your fears and survive the week? Only the strongest applicants made it to the end of this year’s Fear Factor-themed SLP week.

The annual SLP Week, dedicated to students interested in joining the Greer Dawson Wilson Student Leadership Training Program, gives students a glimpse of what student leaders do daily.

Applicants were easily spotted throughout the week as they roamed the campus dressed in professional attire. Students participated in a variety of photo challenges, each trademarked with the caption #SLPWeek2018 on Instagram and Twitter.

Throughout the week, applicants found themselves learning how to manage their time, responsibilities and classes, while also familiarizing themselves with the ins and outs of the leadership program and Hampton University.

“Waking up at 5AM definitely taught me how to prepare for my day to get started and keep my mind going at times when I’m usually sleep,” said Eric Coates, a first-year Sociology major from Philadelphia, Pa.

Applicants also had their share of fun through a variety of entertaining events such as a scavenger hunt, SLP meet-and-greet, and campus-wide events including a ballroom party and a student favorite: “Celebrity Wannabe.”

“Celebrity Wannabe” allowed applicants to impersonate celebrities by performing their songs, raps, performing skits from famous movies and making guest appearances. The show was filled with costumes and choreography, all highlighting the mannerisms of the “celebrities.”

Students who did not perform had the opportunity to work behind the scenes.

The opening performance featured Blockboy JB and Drake with a mob of guys behind them, performing “Look Alive,” hitting the popular “Shoot” dance across the stage.

The show ended with students performing the Billboard hit “Walk It Talk It” by Migos. Their performance kept the essence of the actual music video, thanks to a soul train line, shades and afros.

“Performing as one of the Migos definitely brought me out of my comfort zone. Doing the worm, I felt like I was a part of the actual music video and I would definitely do it all over again,” said Gabriel Sanders, a first-year Sports Management major from Atlanta, Ga.

Friday night, SLP hosted a ballroom party with applicants and their friends in full attendance. An entry fee of two canned goods were required; the food was later donated to a local shelter. Students had a great time after a week of working hard.

After the party many applicants returned to their dorms to study for the SLP exam on Saturday. Following days of preparation and studying, applicants were relieved when they completed the week.

Pass or fail, applicants enjoyed their Fear Factor-themed week and are anxiously waiting to hear if they move on to the final process of becoming a member of the Student Leadership Program.

HU’s 40th Black Family Conference impresses

Image hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Leenika Belfield-Martin & Chelsea Harrison | Staff Writers

RolandMartin.pngDJ Envy and Harvey

From left, Roland Martin, DJ Envy and HU President Dr. William R. Harvey 

Fader Magazine

Hampton University’s 40th Conference on the Black Family kicked off on Wednesday, March 14, with a keynote address given by journalist Roland S. Martin.

The School of Liberal Arts and Education hosted this year’s conference with the theme of “A Spotlight on Strong Black Families: Faith, Identity and Community.”

Martin shared personal anecdotes from his childhood, marriage, family, and career, including how he handled certain family issues. He also addressed the importance in growing the Black community:

“You have to ask the question: What am I prepared to do when we talk about the black family?” Martin said to the audience. “Every time we have a discussion about the Black family, we love to have it in a third-person or an across the town, otherly conversation as opposed to a bowling down your alley or sitting in your pew.”

Martin is a renowned journalist who is best known for his contributions as the host of the first daily morning show to focus on news, politics and other topics from the African-American perspective.

Although he and his wife have no biological children of their own, they both helped raise Martin’s six nieces.

The younger audience members were reminded by Martin that their actions will affect the future of the Black community.

“Every decision in terms of who you date, who you sleep with, who’s in your circle of friends, where you work every single decision will determine whether or not the black family will grow stronger,” said Martin.

Hampton’s Conference on the Black Family began after 10 judges from across the nation, including Judge Joe Williams, approached President Dr. William R. Harvey about the declining state of black couples. Hampton University hosted its first Conference on the Black Family in March of 1979.

“We need to make sure we can do what we can to enhance our communities.” Dr. Harvey said when speaking about the history of the conference.

Dr. Harvey’s family was recognized that night as the black family being honored this year. The School of Liberal Arts and Education also dedicated a reading room in Eva C. Mitchell Hall to Mrs. Norma B. Harvey, for her dedication to young people’s future.

In its second day, the conference focused on a variety of topics including social injustice, mass incarceration, the integration of church and state, education, and relationships within the black family.

Students drew attention to the conference through social media hashtag #CBF40; their use of this hashtag also highlighted their excitement and eagerness to hear from speakers like DJ Envy from the Breakfast Club Morning Radio Show and his wife, Gia Casey.

Additional prominent speakers like Kenneth Hardy, Dr. George Woods, Dr. Kermit Crawford, Dr. Richard Masson, Joshua DuBois, Dr. James Braxton Peterson, and the neo-soul duo Kindred the Family Soul were also featured.

The goal for the conference workshops was to encourage young black people to use their voices to bring change to generational struggles.

During his presentation, Kenneth Hardy spoke of these necessary measures, encouraging students to “Show up, stand up, and speak up.”

“Do not surrender to apathy. Do not buy into individual achievement. Have a voice and exercise your voice. Each day ask yourself what are you doing to uplift our people?” Hardy said to the packed room of transfixed black attendees.

The first full conference day ended with a seminar titled “Relationship Goals: A Glimpse into Real Black Love,” where the highly anticipated DJ Envy and Gia Casey spoke on expectations and reality within African American relationships.

Phones lit up the Student Ballroom as almost all who attended captured memorable moments of the guests’ appearances and words of wisdom.

From the consistent overflow of attendees to the roaring applause, the second day of the Black Family Conference was one for the books.

The last day of the conference ended with a morning seminar led by speaker Dr. Ronald Mincy followed by a noon luncheon where Dr. Fredrick Hayes III closed out the three-day event with a talk on “Bringing it Together: How Faith, Culture, and Resilience Can Lead to Community Activism.”

Overall, the events were well received by all who attended, and many students cannot wait to see what the next year’s program will entail.

London Douglas, a Strategic Communications Major from Maryland, stacked her cellphone camera roll with video clips of the events, saying that she had to “keep a few of the memories for her books.”

“The things they were sharing and teaching are things we as students and African Americans need to remember. Who knows when I’ll need to hear their words again to help me get through tough times or times of confusion?”

Regions battle it out in Freshman Fashion Show

Image hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Steven Hall | Staff Writer

IMG_5676
KPremier @theupnext__

After a short and sweet spring break, Hampton University’s freshman class kicked off their Freshmen Week. The week was organized around the theme Jumanji: Welcome to The Jungle and involved events like Cafe Appreciation Day, Movie Night, Trap Karaoke, and of course, a Fashion Show held in Ogden Hall.

After the administration cancelled the annual Battle of the States Competition, Freshman Class President Bruce Wilson and his team turned a negative to a positive by introducing the Freshman Fashion Show.

Participating students were separated by region and shared cultural aspects from their respective regions through music, dance, and fashion.

The South captured the audience’s attention with their colorful clothing, and lollipops as they showcased their culture through the theme “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

The DMV region had the audience to their feet with their music choices with artists like Shy Glizzy, and Wale.

Students were excited to see the showcase of their cultures on stage. “They all have worked so hard, and it feels good to see everything come to life,” said senior DMV leader Nkafu Foretia.

“It took me back home, and I loved it.”

Although the Fashion Show is completely different event than Battle of the States, it still had the feel, and drive of the event without the competitive aspect.

“The leaders of each region, in my eyes, try to turn this into another Battle of The States. Although it was a fashion show, or at least meant to be a fashion show, many of the regions decided to show off their dancing skills as well,” said Senior Jamal Jackson.

The Fashion Show included many performances that allowed freshmen to showcase their talents. The men of Phi Beta Sigma also had a pre-show showcasing a few of their Spring 2018 initiates.

“I had a great time performing, it gave me a glimpse of what BOTS was like. It was a lot of work, but it worked out well,” said DMV freshmen Winstina Cole.

Freshmen ended the week attending the annual Freshmen Ball. Women dressed in elegant gowns, while men wore suits; all celebrated their first year of college in the Student Center Ballroom.        The Freshmen class also hosted a Freshmen Festival held on Bemis lawn.

After an eventful week, students are now focused on their classes and ending the semester on a strong note.

Administration aims to move forward following HU town hall meeting

hamptonscriptLeave a comment

by: Ya-Marie Sesay, Leenika Belfield-Martin and Ayanna Maxwell

Hampton University Student Government Association President Martha Baye on Feb. 22 issued a letter detailing proposed resolutions to student complaints voiced at a town hall meeting earlier in the week.

“We appreciate students for coming forward to voice their concerns,” Baye stated in a letter posted on hamptonu.edu detailing how the matters were addressed by the administration.

HU President Dr. William R. Harvey called a meeting that day for administrators and campus leaders to discuss the issues.

Title IX Coordinator Attorney Kelly Harvey-Viney assured the administration and campus leaders that the University’s Office of Title IX adheres to federal guidelines in each report of sexual assault.

“The administration appreciates the bravery of the students who come forward to address the important issue of sexual assault,” Bayes’ letter stated.

In reference to social issues, Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Barbara Inman and Baye agreed to meet to reconsider the banishment of 12-2. Students must adhere to the Hampton University Code of Conduct and Dress Code in order to ensure the revival of this event.

As the food service was another prominent issue discussed as town hall, Harvey said he would implement multiple solutions. The first is the establishment of a Food Services Working Group consisting of approximately 10 students who will work closely with Gourmet Services. This group will serve as a mediator between the student body and the cafeteria staff, and will be able to offer suggestions for all cafeteria issues.

Harvey also urged students to directly and immediately contact Gourmet Services Regional Manager Kerwin Cromartie to report any complaints.

Also, Harvey will allow the Wellness Station to be open seven days per week instead of five, serving vegan-friendly, gluten-free and pescatarian meals.

In regards to the condition of facilities, Hampton University will hire a reputable company to investigate the mold in dormitory and common area. This independent company will be selected by March 1, 2018, and steps to remove the mold will follow shortly after.

Students are also now encouraged to submit maintenance suggestions for academic buildings to SGA Vice President Jared Bourke, who will then submit the recommendations to Vice President for Business Affairs and Treasurer Doretha Spells. She will guide all renovations.

The proposed solutions were in response to several grievances discussed at the town hall meeting Feb 20.

Approximately 700 Hampton University students packed the student center ballroom hoping for answers from the university administration concerning a wide range of topics during HU’s annual town hall meeting.

Tension filled the room as students pressed administrators with questions about the reporting of sexual assault, reports of mold found in dorms, the status of suspended social activities, cafeteria food issues and parking issues.

Baye moderated the meeting, which was attended by Harvey, Inman, Spells, Police Chief David Glover, and Chancellor and Provost Dr. JoAnn W. Haysbert.

A young woman shared her claim that she was a victim of sexual assault on campus. She said that at the time of her alleged assault, she did not feel comfortable reporting the incident since the Title IX coordinator first would have to approve an investigation.

According to the university website, “The Title IX Coordinator will decide whether an investigation or referral is required after evaluating the risk of the alleged offender harming other members of the campus community and the likelihood of the university being able to proceed without the active participation of the reporting party (if applicable).”

At the town hall meeting, Harvey responded to the young woman.

“Two things I want to make clear,” he said. “One: I do not stand by it [sexual assault]. And two: You don’t have to get permission [to speak up], but you do have to come forward.”

He also encouraged students to speak with him directly if they ever think their sexual assault case is not being investigated.

The increase of security at Hampton Harbor Apartments was also another topic of concern to students. Many who frequent the apartments yet live on campus have found it increasingly difficult to travel between the school and the apartments.

The administration pointed out that safety trumps convenience and referenced the recent shootings in the apartments as the reasoning for the higher police presence.

“The number of incidents have reduced dramatically at this location since this procedure was put in place,” Glover said.

Other complaints included living conditions, specifically mold reported in dormitories following flooding. Two students detailed their reports of mold in McGrew Towers and James Hall. Spells ensured students that a $20 million renovation plan was underway and encouraged them to report every possible instance of mold in their dorms to their dorm director.

 

HUPD asks church to not approach any other students on campus

hamptonscriptLeave a comment

Leenika Belfield-Martin | Lifestyle Editor

Two women representing a church approached a Hampton University student Feb. 12 outside the campus cafeteria.

One of the women asked sophomore pre-nursing major Janelle St. Clair about “God the Mother.”

“She was pushing for an intimate session, private study,” St. Clair said. “Either way, students shouldn’t be subjected to that.”

University police agreed.

HUPD asked the church – the World Mission Society Church of God – to not approach students on campus, according to a Feb. 13 statement from HU Police Chief David Glover.

“As a private institution, we do not allow off campus organizations and individuals to solicit our students in any manner without prior written approval,” Glover said in the statement.

HU police were made aware that students had been approached on campus, at the Hampton Harbors Apartments and at the Hampton Harbor Shops. HUPD increased patrol activity in those areas.

If students are approached by the church on or near campus, university police urge them to contact HUPD at 757-727-5666 or through the LiveSafe App.

Ishani Lee, another HU student, said she previously was approached by women matching the description of the church members who approached St. Clair. Lee said that she was walking to the Hampton Harbors at around 8 one night when she was approached around the tennis courts.

“They asked me if I knew about the passover.” Lee said.

She was offered the same invitation for a private study but declined it.

Hampton senior Norman Wilkerson visited the World Mission Society Church of God in Newport News last semester after being invited by two men.

“(I’d) never been to a place (like that) where everyone kept an emotionless smile,” Wilkerson said.