Belle Ringer Capitol Hill Update on HBCUs - BY REP. DR. ALMA S. ADAMS - Nice Media Group
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Belle Ringer
The
Winter 2018
Capitol Hill Update
on HBCUs
BY REP. DR. ALMA S. ADAMS
Sharrelle
Barber '07
+ REP. LEWIS
Produces AND UNCF
PRESIDENT/
Documentary CEO VISIT THE
COLLEGE
BY AZUREE BATEMAN '18
"Tell Me Why" CONTENTS
I
Winter 2018
Give to
n a recent meeting on campus with student Belles who,
with dignity and grace shared their critical concerns,
I was awed by their obvious LOVE and concern for
28
Bennett. Two Belles who had voiced their challenges
assisted me the following morning on a campus tour
for a prospective student and her mother. The students
Rep. Adams
Bennett on the Hill
led. I observed. I listened. I learned. Their LOVE for
Bennett was so compelling and magnetic that when we
said our “good-byes” Bennett was sold. Advocating for HBCUs in
Washington, D.C.
Is our “Why” found in the traditions that bind us, the tales from the residence
halls, the Chapel that centers us, the “feng shui” of the campus, or the
investment in our development by a faculty/staff member? Is it found in the 32
poignant “Tell Me Why?” trilogy edited by Juanita Patience Moss ’54? What
really creates the loving cocoon that makes us one? Why do we return for
reunion “year-in and year-out” to get another dose of Belle Sisterhood,
empowered to go back into the world to make it better?
I am Black
Why do we increasingly give? Is it our faith, hope and LOVE for our alma Woman,
mater and what it has given us and also our “little” Sisters? Why did
we exceed our $1.2 million goal last year by reaching $1.7 million? Is it
because we know that Bennett women love a challenge? Can we meet
Resist
this year’s challenge goal of $1.5 million? Indeed, we can! Of the 4,200 Sharrelle Barber, ScD, MPH
accessible alumnae, 1,600 (38 percent) gave last year. We can double ‘07 produces a documentary
that. Will you ask every alumna you know who is still “planning” to give to of the late Marielle Franco,
help double our rate to 76 percent? “Each One CAN Reach One!” Let her Brazilian politician, feminist,
know that Bennett needs her gift NOW (and yours, too) and that it will still and human rights activist.
be recognized in May.
5 Bennett News
Three Ways to Give Bennett Belles are Giving, Voting and Acting Belles, right? The BCNAA 8 Department Updates
needs you. Join. Become a life member. Work with a chapter. Serve on 36 Alumnae Notes
Online - www.bennett.edu, click Donate Now QR Code - You can easily donate by scanning this
a committee. Organize a virtual chapter. This year, run for national office
Text2Give - Text BELLES to 444999. You will be QR Code with your phone.
or nominate a sister. Nominate an alumna for an Annual Award. Come to
asked to confirm your amount.
Bennett May 2-5, 2019, for Alumnae Weekend, in class reunion or not,
because Belles are in reunion every year.
PRESIDENT:
Order Your License Plate And, please “Tell Me Why” through your prayers, your gifts, and your love
for Bennett.
Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins
VP, INSTITUTIONAL
Bennett College is getting personalized license The go live date is January 2019! Hold on, as other
ADVANCEMENT:
plates! It is an exciting and huge task to accomplish. states will follow. If you are interested, contact Konica LaDaniel Gatling, II
We are starting with the states of North Carolina and Haynes at kocobelle97@gmail.com.
Maryland and the city of Washington, D.C. EDITORIAL TEAM:
Audrey Franklin '72, Laurie D.
GWENDOLYN MACKEL RICE ‘61 Willis, Shaakira Jones '12
PRESIDENT,
BENNETT COLLEGE NATIONAL ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION EDITORIAL DIRECTION:
Carmen Smith '11,
Connect with me Nice Media Group LLC
Instagram @bennettwinswithgwen PRINTER:
Piedmont Printing
NAA Instagram @bennettcollegenaa1926
BCNAA Website bcnaa.org
www.bennett.edu 3
Greetings, Bennett Belles! The Difference You Make… We are
A Bennett!
s we prepare to spend the holidays with our family and friends, I Greetings, Bennett College Alumnae!
A
am reminded of just how supportive you have been to the College
throughout the year – as well as times when I have been fortunate s we celebrate the holiday season, I extend
to interact with you. You have participated in Recruitment Fairs to attract warm greetings to each of you and thank you “We are Bennett” is my theme for
prospective Belles to the College. You organized White Breakfasts. The for the support and encouragement you have the year to come! We as Belles are
Durham and Western North Carolina chapters sponsored benefit concerts shown to welcome me back to the College. From proud of our institution and thankful
for the Choir. The Western North Carolina chapter held a “Denim & for the many opportunities it has
the moment I stepped back on campus and began
afforded us. I am especially proud
Diamonds” fundraising event. In addition, the Charlotte chapter held a engaging with faculty, staff and students, I was of this issue because the Editor of
luncheon. quickly reminded of Dr. Willa B. Player’s description this edition is Carmen Smith ’11
of Bennett: “... the busy little College which dares of Nice Media Group, LLC. She
I participated in many of those events. Moreover, I have been on to evaluate itself continuously and to venture into new areas of endeavor was a JMS major and began the
conference calls with some of you throughout the year and, at times, when these promise to move us forward…” Wonderful individuals like BELLE magazine as a student
alumnae have stopped by the Global Learning Center to chat with me. you who are doing amazing things to positively affect so many lives are a which gained acclaim even then.
Of course I fellowshipped with many of you for an extended period during hallmark of this great institution. She is Bennett. Shaakira Jones
Commencement/Alumnae Weekend. ’12, who is the Technology and
Since rejoining the Bennett staff in September, I have been highly impressed Digital Engagement Specialist,
I must publicly thank Gwendolyn Mackel Rice ’61 for her work as has provided most of the graphics
by your enthusiasm and dedication. It goes without saying that you are the
and photos for this issue. She is
President of the Bennett College National Alumnae Association. Likewise, keystone of the College’s success. Your support in fiscal year 2017-2018, Bennett! We then fast forward to a
I must thank Audrey Demps Franklin ’72 for working diligently to meet which totaled over $2.2 million in gifts and pledges, is unprecedented! recent graduate, Azuree Bateman
alumnae needs. Indeed, it will take all of us working together to ensure You heard the call to give during our last fundraising campaign, and you ’18, who wrote one of the feature
Bennett College remains a beacon of hope for young women of color for went above and beyond in answering it. Your “call to action” has directly stories. WOW. They are Bennett!
generations and generations to come. sustained Bennett and is manifested through scholarships and financial aid,
increased admissions applications and experiential learning opportunities We have so many Bennett sisters
Bennett College is an excellent institution, and I am grateful and proud to for our Bennett Belles. who are doing outstanding work.
serve as her President. I feel privileged to serve at an institution where We encourage you to send in all of
the alumnae consistently rank in the Top 3 in alumni giving. When I tell Your critically needed financial support has provided “gap” funds to help your news because through it we
people about our alumnae-giving rate, many are virtually flabbergasted. can let the world know what Bennett
students remain in school and complete their degree, funded residence
has produced. You are Bennett!
I dare say some are envious. I cannot thank you enough for the way you halls and other renovations and enabled Bennett to provide unique Collectively, “We Are Bennett” and
always step up to the plate for your beloved alma mater. You gave an enrichment opportunities to ensure our students learn and develop the we have to take care of her! We
unprecedented $2.2 million in gifts and pledges during FY 2018! critical leadership skills they will need after graduation. For all of that, we have to develop our own movement
Moreover, you followed that by contributing generously on Giving Tuesday, say “Thank You!” where we cherish and protect our
when the College raised $55,618 – nearly $6,000 over our goal! You College, give impactfully and come
also mentor our students and serve as shining examples of accomplished Bennett College is devoted to developing tomorrow’s women leaders by back with hope and optimism.
African-American women who are leaders in the state, in the nation and Top: President Dawkins with former Bennett preparing them to excel in a rapidly evolving and complex world. As your
presidents (L-R) Dr. Julianne Malveaux, Dr. Esther Yours in Sisterhood,
in the world. Terry '61 and Dr. Gloria Randle Scott. Middle: commitment sets a strong example for what alumnae support should mirror,
President Dawkins with students during Breast Cancer my goal is to make you a proud Bennett alumna. While I have already met AUDREY FRANKLIN '72
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams is one of the Awareness Month event.
several of you, I look forward to meeting more of you at chapter activities, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
most popular Christmas songs ever. I must extend a heartfelt thanks to alumnae events and when travel takes me to a town or city near you. ALUMNAE AFFAIRS
you, Bennett College Alumnae, for making every day the most wonderful
time of the year here at Bennett College. Connect with me Thank you, again, for your unwavering commitment to Bennett College,
which helps in no small way to assure our success.
Enjoy a safe, joyous and blessed holiday with your loved ones. Instagram @BennettPrez_PWD
YOU make the difference!
PHYLLIS WORTHY DAWKINS, PH.D. LADANIEL GATLING II
PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
4 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 5
BENNETT NEWS
Belles Rally, March to the Polls
248 During Midterm Election
O
Freshwomen
Meet the n Nov. 6, about 50 Bennett because we walked in the rain to
Class of 2022 students braved the rain
to march to Reid Memorial
vote. I was running late and didn’t
think I was going to make it on time,
"
CME Church to cast their votes. but I did. I’m glad I came, and I’m
As Bennett
Belles, we must
49%
from N.C. recognize the
role we play and
will play in the
2 International future of this
students from Gaza-Palestine and Dushanbe
country and the
3.2 33 world. Bennett President Dr. Phyllis glad we marched.”
Average GPA Full Ride Scholarships Worthy Dawkins joined them, as did Before the Bennett contingent
- Brooke Ashley Kane '19 Kimberly C. Drye-Dancy, director of left campus, they held a rally in the
"
leadership and civic engagement, David Dallas Jones Student Union.
and faculty members Dr. Karla SGA President Alexis Branch, a
Top Academic Majors McLucas, Dr. Robert W. Williams senior from Upper Marlboro, Md.,
and Dr. Gwendolyn M. Bookman. who’s majoring in political science
Drye-Dancy drove students back to and minoring in global studies,
campus in vans. spoke at the rally. So did Dawkins,
“I’m proud of myself because I who reminded her students of the
Biology Business Journalism and Psychology Social Work voted,” Bennett student Karizmah sacrifices made by their ancestors
Media Studies Caldwell said after she voted. “I’m to ensure they had the right to vote.
If you know of any students who would like to join our sisterhood, please contact the Office of Admissions at 1-800-413-5323. also proud of my Bennett sisters
6 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 7
BENNETT NEWS
UNCF Former U.S. Reps. John
President Attorney Lewis, G.K.
and CEO Dr. General Eric Butterfield
Speak to Belles
Michael Holder about Voting,
Meets with
01 01
L. Lomax Students about
Lewis Rides with
at Bennett’s 145th Students to Early
Global Issues
Founder’s Day Vote at Polls
During Bennett College’s 145th Five Bennett College students Civil Rights icon Rep. John Lewis
Founder’s Day Convocation on met with former U.S. Attorney (D-Georgia) spoke inside the Annie
Sept. 30, UNCF President/CEO Dr. General Eric H. Holder, Jr. on Oct. 9 Merner Pfeiffer Chapel at Bennett
Michael L. Lomax said people should at N.C. A&T State University. Holder College on Oct. 19. Lewis was in
stop questioning the relevancy of had an interactive discussion with the state to encourage students to
HBCUs and instead celebrate them the students about local, national register and to vote. He rode with
for their contributions to the fabric of and global issues affecting their some Bennett College students to
American higher education. lives and encouraged them to vote. the polls so they could cast their
Speaking in the Annie Merner “I was inspired by the votes early.
Pfeiffer Chapel, Lomax proffered conversation with Mr. Holder,” said Rep. G.K. Butterfield, (D-N.C.),
that people who question the need Bennett senior Waynisha Gaston Rep. Dr. Alma S. Adams (D-N.C.)
for HBCUs are actually questioning '19, a business administration major and State Sen. Dr. Gladys Ashe
the need for diversity. from Los Angeles. “As a student Robinson '71, chair of the Bennett
02 “In 2018, black women are
among the most educated set of
from California, I appreciated
Mr. Holder’s comments about
College Board of Trustees, also
attended the Oct. 19 event.
people in the country,” he said. the purpose of our Immigration Bennett College President Dr.
L to R: Carissa Edwards, Ja’Kayla Chapman, Rochelle Givens, former Attorney General Eric Holder, Sabrina “Equality and education are linked. and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Phyllis Worthy Dawkins spoke at
Simpson and Waynisha Gaston. During the civil rights movement, agency and how it can be reformed the event, which was sponsored
Bennett’s role then and now is to do a better job. Mr. Holder also by the Bennett College Student
leader. When no other school in this said that as HBCU students we Government Association (SGA). At
area would allow Dr. King to speak, have a historic civic responsibility Bennett, students are encouraged
Notable guess where he spoke? Bennett
College. Ladies, you stand on the
to vote against laws that would
oppress people of color.”
to vote from the moment they enroll
at the College. During elections,
Bennett Belles can be seen
Guests of the shoulders of Bennett giants like Dr.
Willa B. Player. She was a giant marching to the polls. In fact, it was
Adams, who taught art at Bennett
not just because of her impressive
College and credentials and progressive
leadership, but also because of her
for 40 years, who coined the phrase,
“Bennett Belles are Voting Belles.”
Community forward thinking.”
03 03
8 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 9
BENNETT NEWS
L: Harrison flanked by high school
students in Atlanta at Save a
Girl Save a World’s 8th Annual
HBCU Competitiveness Scholar
Retreat; Bottom: Photo at retreat. Belle Participates in White House Initiative on HBCUs
B
ennett webinars and regional events
Senior hosted by the White House Initiative
Tyler on HBCUs.
C. Binion '19 Binion is Senior Class President,
is one of 63 a financial ambassador for the
students from 54 Society for Financial Education and
HBCUs chosen Professional Development (SFEPD)
as an HBCU and program director for The
Competitiveness Wonder Girls Mentorship Program
Scholar through at Alderman Elementary School,
the White House through which she and other Belles
Initiative on help fifth grade girls with college
HBCUs. readiness and self-esteem.
“Tyler is a model student with
Competitiveness a 4.0 GPA,” said Dr. Christopher
Scholars have Walson, who has advised and
From 115 to 1 successfully
prepared to
taught Binion since 2015 and is
chair of the Department of Business,
Jasmine Harrison is Glad She Chose Bennett! compete for top
opportunities
Economics & Entrepreneurship.
“She’s always thorough, prompt and
J "
that improve long-term outcomes. consistently good in her studies and
asmine Harrison '22 made get to successful leaders through Hall and came to Bennett after
They were nominated based on responsibilities and has excellent
headlines after being accepted A.C.E.S., or the Academic Cultural graduating from the Academy at
into 115 colleges and Enrichment Series, and other on- Smith with a 4.0 GPA. Her saga was I also wanted their academic achievement,
campus and civic involvement and
analytical and critical-thinking
skills. She shows poise in her
universities across the nation and
amassing more than $4.5 million in
campus events.
“The people Bennett brings to
well publicized in area media outlets
and in The New York Times. She to be a entrepreneurial ethos or “go-getter” engagements and displays maturity
spirit. and strong character while dealing
scholarships.
Now the Illustrious Belle Scholar
campus to talk to us, like the
representatives of the Black Lives
and her mom were approached by
The Ellen DeGeneres Show about
representative The undergraduate, graduate with people.”
and professional students serve
is making the most of her time at
Bennett.
Matter Movement and Congressman
John Lewis, are nothing short of
an appearance; however, an ankle
injury prevented them from traveling
for my one-year terms and are provided
“Bennett has a partnership with astonishing,” Harrison said. “Our to Burbank, Calif., for the show. overlooked outreach and engagement
activities, as well as information
Winston-Salem State University campus is small, but there are Even so, Harrison was recently
and other connections that enable always big opportunities at Bennett.” featured on Essence Magazine’s HBCU and to and resources, to share with
classmates.
students to get the most of their
education and to branch out,”
Harrison was no stranger to
Bennett when she arrived in the fall.
Facebook page, and she spoke
to high school students in Atlanta provide more “I wanted
Competitiveness
to be
Scholar
a
said Harrison, a biology major
from Greensboro. “Bennett has a
Her older sister, Deanna Armstrong,
is a 2015 Belle. Moreover, Harrison
at Save a Girl Save a World’s 8th
Annual Retreat.
opportunities because I knew that my college
career has exemplified my
good Study Abroad program that
branches around the globe. My
participated in the College’s Summer
Entrepreneurial Program before
“I told them I could have gone
to school anywhere but I chose
for my sisters competitiveness,” said Binion,
freshwoman year has been very classes began. to become a woman on Bennett’s to grow. a business administration major
from Nashville, Tenn. “I also
eventful. I’ve been to Morehouse “What I like most about being a campus,” Harrison said. “I told them
- Tyler C. Binion wanted to be a representative
College for their homecoming, to Bennett Belle is the unity on and off about the elegance and beauty
"
for my overlooked HBCU and to
some book signings, to tea parties campus,” Harrison said. “We protest behind being a Belle. I mentioned
provide more opportunities for my
and I’ve made lots of friends along together, advocate together, laugh the sisterhood, opportunities on
sisters to grow.”
the way.” together and no one gets left out.” campus and unity on campus.”
As a Competitiveness Scholar,
Harrison said she appreciates Harrison lives in the Dr. Johnnetta
Binion will participate in monthly
the exposure Bennett students Betsch Cole Honors Residence
10 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 11
BENNETT NEWS
Belle Delivers a
Baby in West Africa
Summer Program Teaches
Unexpected Lesson
B
ennett College senior math and biology major
Qaleelah Smith '19 assumed her summer
would be exciting. What she didn’t count on was
delivering a baby!
Smith and Bennett senior Aravia Patterson '19,
a biology and Africana Women’s Studies major from
Columbia, S.C., spent three weeks over the summer in
The Gambia in West Africa through Drexel University’s
Global Health Maternal Child Health Program.
On Aug. 14, they arrived at the Tanji Clinic with other
students and shadowed in the labor ward. Neither had
a clue of what was in store.
“There was a woman who’d been in labor for six
hours, and she continued being in labor for the next four
or five hours,” Smith explained. “The nurse instructed
that we induce labor by giving her Pitocin.”
Fifteen minutes after the medicine was administered,
the baby’s head started emerging. The midwife sat
down, told Smith to put on some gloves and began
giving instructions.
Your Legacy. Their Future.
“I was happy she had the confidence in me to do it,
but then I was nervous because I didn’t want to cause
any harm to the mother or the baby,” Smith recalled.
After the baby was born, Smith dried her off as Top: Smith holds the baby she helped to deliver.
she’d been taught by Dr. Yanick Vibert, an attending Bottom: Smith and Patterson with an African prince in Secure your legacy to a future generation of Bennett students.
neonatologist at St. Christopher’s Hospital for West Africa.
Children and Hahnemann University Hospital, both A Charitable Gift to Bennett College, such as a bequest, is an opportunity for you to impact the future
in Philadelphia. Vibert is an assistant professor of Studies in Brooklyn, N.Y. She’s glad to be a Belle. of the College by helping to ensure that the academic excellence you expect is passed on to the next
pediatrics at Drexel University College of Medicine. “The sisterhood here is really nice and people are generation of committed scholars. Please consider making a Legacy Gift to Bennett College.
“Qaleelah was motivated, driven, flexible and willing welcoming,” Smith said. “I enjoy Bennett most because
to ‘lean into areas of discomfort’ to fully experience of the opportunities I’ve had like going abroad and
a new country and immerse herself in a new culture doing research…” For information and questions about Legacy Easy ways to leave your legacy:
without preconceived judgements…” Vibert said. “She Smith traveled with Bennett President Dr. Phyllis Giving, bequests to Bennett or Charitable Giving, • Gift through your will or trust
was following the midwife that morning at the Health Worthy Dawkins and classmates to Seoul, South please contact: • Give life insurance you no longer need
Center, helped the mother feel comfortable while she Korea, in 2017. LaDaniel Gatling, II • Donate your appreciated stock or
was pushing and was respectful and humble throughout “Qaleelah has demonstrated extremely high levels of Vice President for Institutional Advancement retirement investments
the entire experience.” intellectual curiosity, independence and self-motivation 336.517.2248 • Consider giving your home or other real estate
Born in Fort Hood, Texas, Smith graduated as since I’ve known her,” said Dr. Althea Truesdale, dean ladaniel.gatling@bennett.edu • Gifts that earn you fixed payments for life
valedictorian in 2013 from The School for International of the Division for Student Success and Retention.
12 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu
FACULTY AND DEPARTMENT UPDATES
News Professionals Visit the
Journalism and Media Studies Dept.
F
our local TV newswomen
spoke about their experiences
as on-air reporters at “Camera
Ready,” an Oct. 13 forum hosted by
Bennett College’s Journalism and
Media Studies Department. Held
in Bennett’s new JMS Studio, the
event featured Jasmine Spencer of
WGPH Fox8, Nana-Sentuo Bonsu
L. to R.: Aariella Houston, Constance Staley, Dejah Allen, Meagyn Ferguson, of Spectrum News and Kandace
Aravia Patterson, Alexis Jones, Dr. Willietta Gibson, Princess Bush, Tiara Redd and Taheshah Moise, both
Haynesworth and Courtney Matthews of WFMY News 2. Former news
producer Kira Boyd, an adjunct
Biology Professor, Nine Students JMS professor, moderated.
L. to R. Nana-Sentuo Bonsu,
Attend Research Symposium Taheshah Moise, Kandace Redd
and Jasmine Spencer.
D
r. Willietta Gibson, Bennett project director. The purpose of the VA-
College associate professor NC Alliance is to provide opportunities
of biology, and nine students
attended the 11th Annual VA-NC Alliance
for underrepresented minority students
interested in careers and degrees in
Bookman Speaks on Slavery,
Undergraduate Research Symposium
hosted by Virginia Tech Oct. 14-15.
STEM fields.
Bennett senior Constance Staley
Women in Politics
The symposium was sponsored '19, a chemistry major from Ramseur, On Nov. 17 in Orlando, Fla., Dr. as collaborators. Bennett faculty
by the VA-NC Louis Stokes Alliances North Carolina, who aspires to be a Gwendolyn M. Bookman, Esq., and student researchers are
for Minority Participation (LSAMP), a cardiologist, won first place in the poster chair of the Department of Political working on the project that aims to
National Science Foundation (NSF) competition. Staley was given a $100 Science and Sociology, presented show the continuity of slavery from
program for which Gibson serves as prize for her efforts. on a panel at the New York University race-based slavery, to Jim Crow,
Faculty Resource Network’s 2018 to segregation, to the civil rights
National Symposium, Transforming movement to today’s modern day
Dr. Williams Presents W.E.B. Dubois Work Teaching through Active Learning.
The panel included faculty from
slavery abolitionists.
Bookman has long been
Tougaloo and Morehouse colleges, interested in civil rights, justice
Dr. Robert W. Williams, an associate scholarly articles and book chapters on the only other HBCUs studying and politics. A day after the historic
professor of Political Science, has the American sociologist, historian, civil BOOKMAN
modern day slavery. November midterm elections,
studied W.E.B. Du Bois since 2003. rights activist, Pan-Africanist, author, The presenters discussed the she appeared on WGHP FOX8 to
“I started studying Du Bois because writer and editor. He has had one of his active learning activities the three discuss the impact women elected
his teachings allowed me to build upon busiest semesters this fall, presenting in colleges are undertaking to teach officials will have across the country.
what I learned in graduate school and Boston on Aug. 31, in College Park, Md., students, faculty and staff about She’s chair of the Department of
to then add Africana thought in general on Oct. 20, and at Harvard University modern day slavery. In fall 2016, Social and Behavioral Sciences,
and Du Bois’ thought in particular to it,” Oct. 26-27. Williams is most proud of Tougaloo took the lead on the an associate professor of political
WILLIAMS
said Williams, who has taught at Bennett recovering a piece by Du Bois that no initiative, sponsored by a Mellon science and this semester teaches
since 2004. other Du Bois scholar had known about, Foundation grant, and invited a course titled Women and Politics:
Williams has traveled to numerous studied or analyzed. The work was Bennett and Morehouse to serve A Global Perspective.
conferences to present his ideas on Du published in The Journal of African-
Bois and has published about a dozen American Studies in 2012.
14 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 15
Advocating for
HBCUs
in Washington, D.C.
A
BY: REP. DR. ALMA S. ADAMS
s a former HBCU professor and proud opportunity for millions of first generation and minority
two-time graduate of an HBCU (North students. Our institutions enroll more than 300,000
Carolina A&T State University), I students every year. It is past time for the government
know the importance and the inherent and the private sector to make equal investments in
value of our schools. I would not be our students and our HBCUs.
a member of Congress today without After being sworn into the 113th Congress as the
the education and support I received 100th woman in Congress in November 2014, my
from an HBCU. As a poor Black girl growing up in the first act in Congress was to create the first-ever
ghetto of Newark, N.J., I was not exposed to many Congressional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. The Caucus
opportunities and was not fully prepared for the rigors is now 77 members strong with members on both
of college work after graduating from high school. I sides of the aisle and in both chambers who work
would have fallen out of the educational pipeline if not together to address the issues impacting HBCUs and
for North Carolina A&T State University, an HBCU that who are committed to creating a national dialogue
believed in opportunity, that took me in, invested in around HBCUs. Additionally, each year the Caucus
me and set me on a path to become the woman I am hosts events all across the country that bring together
today. I would have never gotten my Ph.D. from THE national stakeholders to convene with our members to
Ohio State University if not for THE North Carolina A&T discuss HBCUs.
State University. HBCUs do matter! One of the Caucus’ main functions is drafting
Throughout my entire 35-year legislative career, I legislation that helps level the playing field for HBCUs.
have made HBCUs a top priority. Our schools have This also includes preserving the promise that HBCUs
endured nearly 200 years of systemic inequity and offer to our communities. A total of 18 HBCUs have
undervaluing. In spite of this, our schools continue to closed, including six in the last 30 years. The HBCU
Former Bennett professor, Rep. Dr. Alma produce top talent. HBCUs contribute over $15 billion Caucus is adamant that another school will not close
S. Adams, shares how HBCUs shaped her annually to our economy, employ more than 130,000 on its watch.
career - which includes 45 years at Bennett - Americans across the country and provide pathways to In September, I introduced H.R. 6876, the
and how the Congressional Bipartisan HBCU
Caucus is working to strengthen our students'
future and institution.
16 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 17
and to celebrate Black women’s 40 percent of African American
contributions to redefining, STEM graduates and 47 percent
reshaping, and diversifying of Black women engineers. There
America’s workforce. During the
National HBCU Braintrust, eight of
can be no diversity in tech without
engagement with HBCUs. President
the current 13 companies accepted HBCUs have long been an
the HBCU Partnership Challenge,
bolstering the Caucus’ efforts
important part of our nation’s
higher education system. HBCUs
Dawkins
to increase workforce diversity. deal with many of the same
These participating companies
awarded nearly a quarter-million
challenges as other higher
education institutions, but they
Collaborates
dollars in scholarships to students
pursuing degrees in science,
technology, engineering, or
also face unique obstacles that
demand special attention. HBCUs
are essential to creating a more
with Members
mathematics (STEM) at 15 top equitable and inclusive workforce.
of Congress
I
n an effort spearheaded by Bennett
College President Dr. Phyllis Worthy
Dawkins, Bennett and several
other private HBCUs were granted
deferments on payments to the HBCU
Capital Finance Loan Program earlier
"
this year. For Bennett, the deferment
Cumulatively, the HBCU Caucus has means the College could save up to
$9 million over a six-year period.
Bennett faced serious financial
"
secured a total increase of $127 million. challenges when Dawkins became
president in July 2017, and she
considered the College’s HBCU
Capital Finance loan payments an
Strengthening Minority-Serving Institutions Act of 2018, While the Caucus is committed to putting forth area for possible relief. The federally
to reauthorize and bolster important Title III line-items policy solutions that move HBCUs forward, we’re also funded HBCU Capital Finance
for HBCUs as well as, Hispanic-Serving Institutions working with the private sector to ensure our graduates L. to R.: N.C. State Sen. Dr. Gladys Ashe Robinson '71, U.S. Rep. Program lets institutions borrow
(HSIs), and other Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs). have equal access to 21st century opportunities. This John Lewis, Bennett College President Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins money for new buildings, renovations
The Strengthening Minority-Serving Institutions Act past February, the HBCU Caucus launched the HBCU and U.S. Rep. Dr. Alma S. Adams outside of the Chapel. and debt refinancing. In 2010, Bennett
borrowed money in this fashion.
would increase mandatory funding levels from a Partnership Challenge and engagement survey. The Dawkins sought help from UNCF
combined $255 million to $300 million for MSIs and Challenge and survey are an effort to promote greater ABET engineering HBCUs. I believe it is imperative that we President and CEO Dr. Michael L.
extend the appropriation indefinitely. This legislative engagement and support from private industry with Leveling the playing field for our continue to advocate for effective Lomax and UNCF Administrator
language was also included in the Aim Higher Act HBCUs. Today, the HBCU Caucus has 17 participating schools and our students requires policy solutions in Washington, Lodriguez Murray, who in turn went to
(H.R. 6543), the Democratic reauthorization of the organizations in the Challenge including: Intel, Lyft, a collective approach to ensure while we build and strengthen Republican Congressman Ted
Higher Education Act. According to the American Amazon, GM Financial, SAP, Blue Cross & Blue Shield HBCUs have access to the same partnerships between our schools Budd and Democratic
Council on Education, minority-serving institutions of North Carolina and the newest addition, Duke federal resources and private and the private sector. Our Congresswoman Alma S. Adams,
enroll over 4.8 million students across the country. Energy. All of these partners have committed to making sector opportunities as their peer nation’s HBCUs are evolving as who convinced Congress to grant
These institutions are engines of economic opportunity greater investments in HBCUs through the creation of institutions. In August, the Caucus they adapt to an ever-changing deferments on HBCU Capital Finance
loan payments to Bennett and several
for diverse students and the communities they serve. innovative tech + HBCU partnerships. convened the landmark Diversity workforce, and through the HBCU
other private HBCUs for as many as
The Strengthening Minority-Serving Institutions Act Our collective efforts culminated in two substantive in Tech Summit in Greensboro, Caucus, I look forward to helping six years, ending in fiscal 2023.
permanently reauthorizes funding that allows these events that strived to facilitate engaging discussions N.C., on the campus of the guide the conversation about how “This would not have happened
institutions to make investments that improve their to develop strategies that create partnerships between largest STEM degree-producing we can best support them. I am without the persistence of the four of
academic programs, professionally develop their corporations and HBCUs. The Caucus held the HBCU, North Carolina A&T proud to serve as the Founder and them,” Dawkins said.
faculty, repair their educational facilities, and place Second Annual National HBCU Braintrust during the State University. The Summit Co-Chair of the Congressional The historic legislation was written
them on a long-term path of fiscal stability. 48th Congressional Black Caucus’ Annual Legislative brought together more than 40 Bipartisan HBCU Caucus whose into law in just 51 days – a process
Cumulatively, the HBCU Caucus has secured a total Conference in September. The Braintrust convened major tech companies with over 77 members continue to lead a that typically takes years.
increase of $127 million for HBCU line-items in the the HBCU, corporate, and policy communities in the 30 HBCUs and members of robust agenda on behalf of these
115th Congress. nation’s capital to discuss substantive partnerships Congress. HBCUs produce nearly historic institutions.
18 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 19BY: AZUREE BATEMAN ‘18
PHOTO BY: ZAMANI FEELINGS PHOTOGRAPHY
“We [Black women]
have to occupy every
space with
our bodies.”
T
hese were some of the final public
words spoken by Rio de Janeiro,
Brazil, City Council member Marielle
Franco before her tragic death on
March 14. Following a roundtable
discussion titled Jovens Negras
Movendo As Estruturas (Young
Black Women Moving Power Structures), Franco was
assassinated in downtown Rio. Prior to her untimely
and politically motivated execution, she spent her final
hours surrounded by Black women at Casa das Pretas
(Black Women’s House). One of the women present at
the event was Sharrelle Barber, ScD, MPH ‘07.
“The event that night reminded me of Bennett and the
power of Black women, sisterhood, and Black women’s
sacred spaces,” Barber said.
During Barber’s matriculation at Bennett, she
was introduced to the rich legacy of social activism
among Bennett Belles dating back to the 1930s and
I, Am A well into the 1960s and 1970s when Bennett women
played an integral role in planning the Woolworth’s
Black Woman,
Sit-Ins. Barber sought to carry on that legacy when
she helped to coordinate the college's March to the
Polls in 2004 — a tradition that Belles look forward to
every election cycle; and as Bennett College’s Student
Government Association President in 2007. Now as a
Resist
social epidemiologist and a member of the faculty at
the Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health,
Barber conducts research on structural racism and its
role in shaping racial health inequalities in the southern
United States and Brazil. She views her research and
scholarship as a form of activism.
Alumna documents the story of a slain Brazilian politician, feminist, and human rights activist Barber’s introduction to Brazil was through an
opportunity she had while she was a student at
and has a U.S. screening tour planned, the first of which took place at Bennett.
Bennett. In January 2005, Barber was nominated by
20 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 21" It was clear, that they were committed to
picking up the mantel and keeping Marielle’s
legacy of resistance alive. Seeing them gave
me courage.
Bennett’s chaplain, Rev. Dr. Natalie
McLean ’80, to attend the World
Social Forum in Porto Alegre, Brazil
as a student delegate of the UMC
of 36, she received the fifth highest
vote count out of 51 vacant seats
and was considered one of Brazil’s
rising stars in politics. According
gave me courage.”
March 14 event, Barber recounts
that Franco quoted Audre Lorde:
"
In Franco’s closing remarks at the
in the world for Black women.
However, there sits an oasis on the
corner of 900 East Washington St.
in Greensboro, N.C. And on October
Barber and Franco a few hours before the assassination.
General Board of Global Ministries. to the Guardian, Franco, who had “I am not free while any woman is 18, just seven months after the
“It was my first international trip grown up in the Maré favela in Rio, [a prisoner] even if her [chains] are assassination of Franco, Barber and
and my initial introduction to the focused on the rights of Blacks, the different from my own,” both in her her team hosted the debut screening
favelas and the overwhelming LGBTQI community, single mothers native language and then in English of the film in the Global Learning
presence of Blacks in Brazil. It was and residents of the favelas. As a for Barber. Center at Bennett College. Over
such a life-changing experience to trained sociologist, she was also It was that quote and gesture 100 students, faculty and staff, local
be with young people like myself deeply critical of police brutality, of “sisterhood and solidarity” that activists and community members
from all around the world,” Barber state-sanctioned violence and the motivated Barber to find a way to were present to hear about Franco’s
says of the experience. federal military intervention that was “bear witness” to Franco’s legacy legacy, including Congresswoman
The World Social Forum implemented in Rio in February. and the power of Black women’s Dr. Alma S. Adams and N.C. State
welcomed thousands of social “It was like meeting a kindred activism in Brazil. She partnered Sen. Dr. Gladys Ashe Robinson
justice activists from hundreds of spirit," she recalls of meeting with Free Southern Media, an '71, who were both moved by the
countries across the globe. The Franco. independent film collective based film. Freshwoman Mi’Ayzah Fagan
General Board of Global Ministries While she was stopped at a traffic in Durham, N.C., to co-direct and described the documentary as “an
hosted a global delegation of 60 light on her way home from the co-produce a short documentary inspiration that really moves you Barber interviews Zakiya Carr- Barber speaks with Dr. Kenneth
students who attended to find ways event on March 14, a car pulled up about Franco - I, A Black Woman, to want to be involved. You can’t Johnson of Odara Solutions and Dossar at a tribute she organized
to create a more just and equitable beside Franco and shot nine bullets Resist. The film features a first- watch this and not want to go out Black Women Disrupt in Atlanta. to honor Marielle Franco at
world. Barber would go back to Brazil into her vehicle. Franco and her hand account of the event at Casa and change the world.” Drexel University.
years later as a part of her research. driver, Anderson Gomes, were both das Pretas from Barber and expert There have been additional
The full circle moment came during killed. interviews with Dr. Kia L. Caldwell screenings at UNC-Chapel Hill,
her most recent trip in March while "It shook me to my core,” Barber (UNC-Chapel Hill), Zakiya Carr- Duke University and the National
she was teaching as a Visiting says. Johnson (Black Women Disrupt), Women’s Studies Association
Scholar at the National School of The very next day Black women and Dr. Erica L. Williams (Spelman Conference in Atlanta, Ga. More
Public Health at the Oswaldo Cruz and allies alike filled the Rio College). Barber was intentional screenings are scheduled for the
Foundation in Rio. It was a research streets in protest of Franco’s unjust about putting her team together spring, and the team is in the early
partner that suggested that Dr. execution. as well, which includes a group stages of planning a solidarity event
Barber attend the event at Casa das “As I looked at some of the Black of young Black women— Amber for March 14, 2019.
Pretas to meet local Black women women leading the protests, they Delgado, Erica Hawkins, and “Four bullets to the head
activists and Marielle Franco, an were some of the same women that Azuree Batemen ’18— who heard attempted to silence her voice,”
experience, like the one 13 years I had been with the night prior at about the project and wanted to Barber says at the beginning of
prior, that would prove to be life- Casa das Pretas. They were there, help tell Franco’s story. Barber the film. But it is clear that she and
changing. and they were standing. It was hopes to use the film as a tool to countless others around the world
Marielle Franco was a Black, clear that they were committed to build consciousness and facilitate are going to ensure that Franco’s
queer, human rights activist and a picking up the mantel and keeping dialogue around the necessity of legacy of resistance is heard far and Barber with members of the Bennett community at the first
newly elected member of the city Marielle’s legacy of resistance transnational solidarity. wide. Indeed, Marielle Presente. screening of the I, Am A Black Woman, Resist documentary at
council in Rio. In 2016 at the age alive.” Barber recalls. “Seeing them There aren’t a lot of sacred places Marielle is here. Now and always. the Global Learning Center.
22 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 23ALUMNAE NOTES
1975 1978 1992
Joyce Bass Valentine ’78 Dr. LaVie Totten Leasure ‘92
presented on “Why are all the has joined the UCaLL family
Black Students Sitting in the at Winston-Salem State
Back Row of the Classroom: University as the Interim Dean
A Discussion on the Imposter of Sophomore Students and
Syndrome” at the 7th Annual Nontraditional Student Services.
DIVAS (Distinguished, Intellectual, She will be responsible for
Virtuous, and Academic Sistas) working with students who
conference in collaboration with are preparing to enter their
NCA & Teach STEM Scholars intended majors, and developing
Program on the campus of N.C. appropriate programming to
A&T State University. This is her engage nontraditional students
second year of presenting at the as they pursue their academic
Alumna to Release conference. Last year, Joyce
spoke about Macroaggressions
goals. She will also assist with
advising transfer students and
in Higher Education at the Elon will collaborate with Faculty,
Second Book University host site. Academic Success Counselors,
and other university offices to
Aggie “Jean” Jackson ‘75 just Valentine has also been selected create initiatives that support
Cooper Owens '94 Examines recently completed her third novel, to receive the Bob and Jessie Rae students undecided about their
Mental Illness During U.S. Slavery, Mae Mae’s Just Dessert, which
completes the trilogy about her
Scott Fellowship. This financial majors, as well as students
award is for the 2018-2019 who may have challenges with
Writes Harriet Tubman Bio hometown of Asheville, N.C. The academic year and is awarded admission into certain majors (e.g.,
first two books titled, "Blackeyed based on academic excellence, nursing, education) to help them
D
Peas and Cornbread" and its leadership qualities and understand alternative pathways
eirdre Cooper Owens is
working on a second book
“Medical Bondage” moves
between southern plantations and
"[The book] also sequel, "Mae Mae’s Eastend extracurricular activities. Valentine and explore opportunities that may
project that examines mental
illness during the era of United
northern urban centers to reveal
how nineteenth-century American
retells the story Café," as well as a book of poetry
titled, "Loving and Knowing, Life
is currently a doctoral candidate in
the College of Education at N.C.
suit their goals. She also currently
serves as Associate Professor
States slavery and is also writing ideas about race, health, and of Black enslaved Poems by A. Jean Jackson," are
currently available on Amazon.
State University. in the Department of English,
where she specializes in African-
a popular biography of Harriet status influenced doctor-patient
Tubman that examines her through relationships in sites of healing like women..." Jackson advises that all Bennet
sisters, especially the future 1991 American literature, Black women
writers.
the lens of disability. slave cabins, medical colleges,
In “Medical Bondage: Race, and hospitals. It also retells the the Mary Wollstonecraft Award for generations, should enjoy life,
Gender, and the Origins of story of Black enslaved women the best dissertation in women’s have a great career, and most of Rhonda Harris Simmons ‘91
American Gynecology” (University and of Irish immigrant women from history. A popular public speaker, all, do what you love. graduated from Temple University's
of Georgia Press, 2017), Cooper the perspective of these exploited she has spoken internationally and School of Pharmacy with a Master
Owens examines a wide range groups and thus restores for us a domestically, published essays, N.C. Governor Roy Cooper of Science degree in Regulatory
of scientific literature and less picture of their lives. book chapters, and blog pieces on appointed Dr. Frankie Penn Affairs. Simmons states that “It was
formal communications in which Beginning Fall of 2019, Cooper a number of issues that concern Powell ‘75 to the North Carolina a long and challenging road, but
gynecologists created and Owens will hold the Charles and African American experiences. Advisory Committee on Cancer I did it while working full-time and
disseminated medical fictions Linda Wilson Professorship in the Recently, Cooper Owens finished Coordination and Control. Powell caring for my family! This degree
about their patients, such as their History of Medicine at the University working with Teaching Tolerance is a tenured associate professor has strengthened my scientific
belief that black enslaved women of Nebraska, Lincoln where she and the Southern Poverty Law in the Department of Educational knowledge, especially drug
could withstand pain better than will also serve as Director of the Center on a podcast series about Specialties at the University of development, which is critical to my
white “ladies.” Even as they were Humanities in Medicine Program. how to teach U.S. slavery and was North Carolina at Pembroke. profession in the pharmaceutical Jocelyn Biggs ’92 has been
advancing medicine, these doctors She will be the third Black woman listed as an “acclaimed expert” on industry.” appointed Director of Admissions
were legitimizing, for decades to in the United States to hold an U.S. history by Time Magazine in at Virginia Union University.
come, groundless theories related endowed professorship in the its annual “The 25 Moments From She was formerly Director of
Send information to
to whiteness and Blackness, men
and women, and the inferiority of
History of Medicine.
Cooper Owens earned her Ph.D.
American History That Matter Right
Now” issue. Share your news Audrey Franklin '71 at
Admissions at Bennett.
afranklin@bennett.edu.
other races or nationalities. from UCLA in History and won
24 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 25ALUMNAE NOTES BENNETT COLLEGE NATIONAL ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: July 1, 2017-June 30, 2019
1999-2000 Alexis Small '14 is expanding
the College Daze brand into
her own company, Alexis Small
P. O. Box 20321 Greensboro, NC 27420
PRESIDENT PARLIAMENTARIAN FINANCIAL SECRETARY
Productions. She is currently Mrs. Gwendolyn Mackel Rice ‘61 Ms. Charisse Simpson ‘92 Mrs. Elayne Gibbs Jones ‘88
producing the 23 & Graduated doc gwenbcnaa@gmail.com ctoctravel48@gmail.com ejones1988@gmail.com
series and the animated Judge
Khalil series about a 12- year- old TREASURER 2nd VICE PRESIDENT ALUMNAE AFFAIRS
boy who, with the encouragement Dr. Marilyn King Lewis ‘76 Ms. Melissa J. Watson ’13 Mrs. Audrey Demps Franklin ‘72
from his family, friends, and maxie.kinglewis15@gmail.com melissajwatson1873@gmail.com afranklin@bennett.edu
teacher, Mr. Pride, has big
dreams of becoming a judge. 1st VICE PRESIDENT RECORDING SECRETARY
Mar’Koya Walker-Jones ’13 Alexis strongly believes in creating Dr. Yardley M. Hunter ‘75 Mrs. Joyce Bass Valentine ’78
received her Master’s in Clinical positive images for women and expelliarmus@aol.com jbvalent74@gmai
Psychology from Fisk University. people of color through film,
theater, and animation. Alumnae Chapter Presidents
July 2017 – June 30, 2019
Albany, GA Anderson ‘70 Orangeburg, SC ts295461@gmail.com
Kenya Gray ‘99, UNCF Senior
Relationship Manager in Program
Management since 2011, and Pia
Necrology Dr. Judith Hatch ‘77
Judithhatch2014@gmail.com
and3058@gmail.com
Eastern, NC
Dr. Grace Heyward Salters ‘55
gsalters@bellsouth.net Western North Carolina
Mrs. Doris Luck Fullwood ‘61
Holland ‘00, UNCF Relationship Jacquelyn Myles Smith ‘40 Augusta, GA Mrs. Sarah Brodie Sharpe ‘87 Pee Dee County, SC fullwodda@bellsouth.net
Dr. Stacey Copeland Davis ‘90 Sheppardsb@gmail.com Ms. Yulaundra Ferguson-
Manager in Program Management Pearl Mebane ‘42 pearls27.sd@gmail.com Heyward Winston Salem, NC
since 2007, were awarded Annie Valentine Wilkins ‘43 Gastonia, NC yfheyward@gmail.com Ms. Shareka R. Brown ‘97
two stars from the Department Joyce Picot McManus ‘47 Baltimore, MD Mrs. Donna Brown Washington ‘77 srbrown28@yahoo.com
of Scholarships, Programs, Lillian Clarke Lockery ‘50 Ms. Constance Lindsey ‘87 donna 72755@yahoo.com Raleigh, NC
cjlindsey15@yahoo.com Dr. Keisha Reed Brown ‘98 Pending/Reorganized
Internships and Fellowship at the Morgan Nelson Boykin '13 serves Wynell Gaylord ‘52 Greater New York rreed15@hotmail.com
UNCF Office. as the Director of Community Ethel Lewis ’52 Charleston, SC Ms. Lenore Braithwaite ‘89 Chapters
Program & Engagement at the Allie Bray Robertson ‘53 Mrs. Eugenia D. Johnson ‘48 lenore727lab@aol.com Richmond, VA
2013 Carolina Youth Coalition (CYC).
CYC is a college-access, non-profit
Bettye Washington Campbell ‘53
Mamie McLurkin Strawn-Davis ‘58
ej12501@aol.com
Charlotte, NC
Greensboro, NC
Ms. Roslyn Smith ‘61
Mrs. Terressa Campbell Oten ‘96
rvabelles@gmail.com
Dallas, TX
Mrs. Wendolyn Abel-Whitehead ‘86
wmable1217@yahoo.com
organization that prepares high Carolyn Brown Dorcas ‘58 Mrs. Natalie Stewart Parker ‘01 virgobelle61@aol.com Rochester, NY
achieving, under-resourced high Carolyn Martin Crowder ‘59 Kinston, NC
nrstewart@gmail.com Mrs. Lillie Stone ‘74
Mrs. Joyce H. Raye ‘59
school students to get into, excel at Gladys Jeffries Jessup ‘59 Las Vegas, NV Lillie.stone@rcsdk12.org
Home: 252-523-4991
Dorothy Groves Chambers ‘61 Chicago, Il Ms. Tisha Harris ‘63
and graduate from college so they
Mrs. Kimberly Walls Kirk ‘98 tharris60@aol.com Savannah, GA
can become full participants Barbara Byrd Haynes ‘62 Kimberlywalls35@gmail.com Dr. Myra McCoy Pope ‘73
Houston, TX
in society. Wilhelmina “Billie” Hampton Metro Atlanta, GA drndanu@bellsouth.net
Ms. Charmaine D. Wilson ‘99
McLean ‘63 Ms. Francena Brown ‘86 cdwilson5@hotmail.com
Cincinnati, OH
2014 Sonya Latham Barnett ‘63
Patricia Williams Strickland ‘62
Rev. Jeaninne Lewis Walker
‘85
nean727@juno.com
fbrownbc86@comcast.net
Metro Washington, DC
Tidewater Area, Virginia
Dr. Judith Brooks Buck ‘71
jbec2000@msn.com
South Central, NC
Dr. Frankie Penn Powell ‘75
Carol Bryant Stith ‘67 Mrs. Kenya Samuels Gray ‘99 fpowell003@nc.rr.com
Sandra Turner Days ‘67 Coastal Carolina, NC kenya.gray@gmail.com
Lillian Pinder Jones Stanford ‘68 Ms. Renee R. Purvis ‘85 San Francisco Bay Area, CA
Ava Taylor Williams ‘69 msnicet@yahoo.com New England/Conneticut
Ms. Lensley Gay ‘75
Ms. Melodi Dice ‘97
melodikd@yahoo.com
Join the
Crystal Phifer ’76
Lashena Sheffield Smith ‘95
Delaware Valley, PA
Ms. Khia K. Naylor ‘97
lensl9@aol.com
Ms. Carolyn J. Silvers ‘70 Network
Ka'Dijah Brown ’13 was elected Phillybelle97@yahoo.com Northern Virginia cjsil48@aol.com
to the Berkeley Unified School Mrs. Brenda Morgan Nicholson ‘69 Get involved with the BCNAA
District (Calif.). Brown was the first Detroit, MI bmnicker@aol.com Southern California and join a local/regional
Former Faculty/Staff
teacher and youngest person to be Mrs. Sandra Philpott-Burke ‘70 Sandra Davidson ‘14 chapter. Contact your sisters
Necia Boyers sphilpottburke@yahoo.com North Jersey davidson0425@gmail.com
elected into the Board. via the emails listed on this
Julia Covington Ms. Samantha Dow ‘97
page or visit bcnaa.org to
Mae Nash Durham, NC Samantha_dow@yahoo.com Westchester, NY
NJBelles@msn.com learn more.
Mrs. Jacqueline Brimmage Ms. Tiffany Sullivan ‘08
26 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 27ALUMNAE NOTES
Class Reunion
Photos
Classes ending in the years 3 and
8 celebrated their reunions. 1948 1953
Alumnae Weekend,
Class Giving 1958 1963 1968
1938
1943
$81.40
$675.00
Commencement 2018
1948 $110,926.00
1953 $40,720.00
1958 $92,155.52
1963 $17,548.00
1968 $39,011.00
1973 $38,615.00
1978 $21,980.00
1983 $4,860.00 1973
1988 $2,675.00
1978 1983
1993 $1,665.00
1998 $6,467.76
2003 $235.00
2008 $225.00
2013 $195.00
2018 $100.00 Rev. Jesse Jackson and April Ryan
$378,134.68 speak; scences from Alumnae
Weekend 2018.
1988 1993 1998
2003 2008 2013
28 The Belle Ringer Winter 2018 www.bennett.edu 29You can also read
