THE BENNETTVOICE BENNETT COLLEGE’S MAGAZINE JUNE 2018

Bennett Belles Soaring to New Heights A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Greetings, Bennett College Faculty, Staff, Students, Parents, Alumnae and Friends!

On May 5, I shook the hands of 78 young women as they transitioned from Bennett College students to Bennett College graduates. That same weekend, our dedicated Alumnae returned to campus for a great time of fellowship and fun. I got a chance to interact with Alumnae Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins at The Donor Breakfast, The All Bennett Luncheon and The White President Breakfast. My gratitude over the significant financial contributions Mason Blacher Alumnae have made this year continues. Acting Vice President for Institutional Advancement As we close out the 2017-2018 fiscal year, I’m excited about the influx of new students we anticipate this fall. Bennett has a record number Laurie D. Willis of applications on file! To date, 263 young women have paid their Chief Communications and deposits, and of those 220 say they plan to live on campus. Among Marketing Officer our new students is Jasmine Harrison, a Greensboro native who was Shaakira M. Jones ’11 accepted to 113 schools and is coming to Bennett as a member of the Digital and Social Media Specialist Class of 2022! Jasmine has been featured in The New York Times, and she and her mom have been approached about appearing on The Ellen Aziz Peregrino-Brimah DeGeneres Show. Jasmine said she chose Bennett, in part, because of Webmaster the positive changes she noticed in her older sister, DeAnna Armstrong ‘15. Audrey Demps Franklin ’72 Executive Director of Alumnae Relations As you review this edition of The Bennett Voice, you’ll read about May graduates Shani McMichael and Joy Bullock. Shani enrolled in Yolande Johnson ’83 Bennett with a 2.3 GPA but graduated as valedictorian and is headed Community Campaigns Coordinator to graduate school at Columbia University. Joy served as senior class president and hopes to become a Raleigh police officer before attending Crystal Hall law school at North Carolina Central University. Also included is a Executive Administrative Assistant profile on Belles Ernestine Paschall-Shade ’48 and Dr. Bernadette to the Vice President for Institutional Gregory Watts ’71, a feature on Alumnae giving and others articles. Advancement Julie Beard I sincerely hope you enjoy this edition of The Bennett Voice. As you Advancement Services Analyst read, please consider ways you can help Bennett – by donating to Bennett Voice photos taken by grow.bennett.edu, by mailing a check in care of Institutional Shaakira Jones, David Hardy and Advancement to 900 East Aziz Peregrino-Brimah Washington Street, Greensboro, Cover photo: Asheley Taylor of Durham, N.C. N.C. 27401, or by sending some prospective Belles our way. Thank you, as always, for your CONNECT WITH US! support.

@BennettCollege Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, Ph.D. President Dr. Dawkins showing support to Carina FOLLOW DR. DAWKINS ON Hernandez ’18 during her Senior Art Exhibit TWITTER! in the Wilbur Steele Hall Art Gallery @BennettPrez_PWD SO O S MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT

Did you know that Bennett College could write you a check instead of the other way around?

It was wonderful visiting with Bennett Belles as they celebrated their reunions during Alumnae Weekend – and learning firsthand why they’re so fiercely devoted. At The Donor Breakfast, there seemed a hunger – not necessarily just for more scrambled eggs, thank you – for a way to move their alma mater toward a stronger, more sustainable future.

Belles listened intently to ways they can make a smart investment in Bennett, and themselves, by various methods, including: Mason Blacher, Acting Vice President for Institutional Advancement -Using appreciated securities (stock that has increased in value from the time it was acquired) instead of cash or checks to make a charitable gift to Bennett; -Transferring funds from their IRAs that, after age 70 1/2, are subject to mandatory withdrawal if not otherwise needed; -Joining the Willa B. Player Society to learn more.

We all know that Bennett Belles are Voting Belles. As it turns out, Bennett Belles are Investment Belles, too! I say that because as I spoke, dozens of Belles nodded knowingly at the mention of these concepts. Indeed, several came up to me afterwards to discuss stock gifts; another discussed making Bennett the beneficiary of her life insurance policy (a fully paid-up policy is best); one pledged the proceeds from the sale of her parents’ home; and several more stopped me in the corridors to talk. Please consider this your personal invitation to join them by getting in touch with me.

There actually are some circumstances where a gift to Bennett College could put more spendable lifetime income in your pocket. Would Bennett really write you a check? Yes, under the right circumstances, with a charitable trust or annuity agreement that pays you an income for life after receiving an asset (like stock) from you, then selling and reinvesting the proceeds and avoiding capital gains tax to earn a higher rate of return. Whether Bennett (or the charitable trust) writes you a check, or whether you simply earn a higher ‘return’ from making a tax wise gift that costs you less to give than cash, there are opportunities to do more for Bennett …and you!

You’ve already received a wonderful education for life from Bennett College. And when it comes to the I.R.S., it truly may be better to give than to receive.

Mason Blacher, former Director of Major Gifts at the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University, formed Mason Jay Blacher & Associates, a fundraising firm for nonprofit organizations. He has consulted for a number of women’s colleges, Methodist institutions and smaller liberal arts colleges, including Bennett, where he has accepted the position of Acting Vice President for Institutional Advancement. He welcomes the opportunity to talk with you; however, because he is often out of the office or on the road, you may reach him through his executive administrative assistant, Crystal Hall, at [email protected] or 336.517.2248. Blacher talking with alumnae at The Donor Breakfast during Alumnae Weekend 2018

The Bennett Voice 3 COMMENCEMENT 2018 DELIVERED UPLIFTING, INSPIRING SPEECHES

his fall, Bennett’s 2018 graduates an Honorary Degree. Director Dorthea L. Taylor ’99, provided will be all over the place – literally. music. Graduate Toshana Mbombo gave T “Never give up or lose faith even when the Old Testament reading; graduate Graduate schools in London, New York times get hard,” Boasmond encouraged Aliyah McLaughlin gave the New City, Los Angeles and right here in the graduates, noting at one point she Testament reading. Greensboro – among others. Some of the worked three jobs in a single day and had graduates will join the workforce; two only $750 in the bank. Graduates Sandra Toledo (Mexico) and will teach English in China for a year. Delphina Charles (U.S. Virgin Islands) Valedictorian Shani McMichael, who presented flags from their respective Life after graduation began May 5 came to Bennett with a 2.3 GPA but countries. Members of Girl Scout for Bennett’s newest graduates, when graduated with a near-perfect average, Troop 1726 from St. Matthews United White House Correspondent/CNN gave an inspiring speech during Methodist Church conducted presentation Political Analyst April Ryan gave the Commencement, attended by about of the colors. Commencement address. 2,000. Other speakers included Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Gladys Ashe Robinson Gwendolyn Mackel Rice ’61, president of “Graduates, you’ve got to think about ’71 and former Bennett President Dr. the BCNAA, presented the 1968 Honor from whence you’ve come,” Ryan told Gloria Randle Scott. Class and conducted the NAA induction the 78 graduates. “And you’ve got for the newly minted graduates. College to remember to give back to Bennett Robinson brought greetings and Chaplain Reverend Dr. Natalie McLean College. It’s not about how much you presented the Board of Trustees Teaching ’80 gave the benediction after Dawkins give…make a pledge to Bennett in your Excellence Award to Dr. Alan Goble, gave the charge to the graduates. heart today. I also want you to remember chair of the Psychology Department and you’re beautiful black women, but most an associate professor of psychology. “Bennett Belles, please cherish this of all you’re beautiful.” day…” Dawkins said. “After all, Scott gave a tribute to Former First despite your anxiety when you first Bennett President Dr. Phyllis Worthy Lady Barbara Bush, Bennett’s 1989 entered the College, and the failures and Dawkins met Ryan last year in Baltimore Commencement speaker and an Honorary disappointments you have experienced, at a White Breakfast sponsored by Degree recipient. you made it!” the Baltimore chapter of the Bennett National Alumnae Association. Ryan is a The Bennett College Choir, led by Dawkins invited them to visit their alma Baltimore native and proud graduate of mater and echoed Ryan’s directive about Morgan State University. giving back.

Dawkins introduced her as someone “Tell other bright young women about who, “gives back to the community by the wonderful education you received serving as a mentor to aspiring journalists at Bennett,” Dawkins said. “Tell them and assisting with developing ‘up and about the sisterhood. Tell them about the coming’ broadcasters.” She said that outstanding faculty and staff. Encourage although Ryan is enjoying an illustrious them to consider enrolling in this career, she considers her greatest life’s awesome institution.” work raising her daughters, Ryan and Grace. After the ceremony, graduates rushed to find their parents and other loved Chasity Byrd and TyQuan Hutchinson, ones. Endia Lilly, who earned a degree who attend the Martin Dixon in psychology and plans to attend Intergenerational Center (MDIC) named graduate school at Pfeiffer University, for Bennett alumna Dr. Joyce Martin said she’s the first on her mother’s side Dixon ’56, presented Ryan with a gift. to graduate from a four-year institution. Alicia Denson, who earned her degree Linda McGill Boasmond, a chemist in business management, didn’t hesitate who runs the country’s first and only when asked about her plans: “Get a job African-American, woman-owned and pay off my student loans.” chemical manufacturing plant, received Ryan accepting a gift from MDIC students Chasity Byrd and TyQuan Hutchinson 4 The Bennett Voice FROM 2.3 GPA TO COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY!

technologies,” she said. “It gave me a clearer understanding of communal roles and how one’s overall health is directly correlated to his or her surroundings and access to healthcare.”

During fall 2017, McMichael spent four months in Cyprus, which she describes as “an experience of a lifetime.”

McMichael credits many at Bennett with helping her along her journey, which in just a few months will take her to an Ivy League school where she plans to obtain a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology.

In an interview before Commencement – as McMichael ’18 speaks as Bennett administrators and Linda McGill Boasmond listen on well as during the ceremony – she thanked many at Bennett for helping her. hen Shani McMichael enrolled at and tutoring programs…My diligence and “The entire Psychology Department played Bennett College four years ago, hard work presented a lonely path at times. a pivotal role in the scholar I am today,” she had a 2.3 GPA and no idea Although I missed out on opportunities to W McMichael said in an interview. “Dr. Santiba what she wanted to do with her life. hang out with friends, go out partying and Campbell gave me the courage to embrace experience the college nightlife, I knew that my black femininity and intelligence. And What a difference the right college makes. I was working to achieve an experience that I hold Dr. Sara Wrenn close to my heart was far greater than a fun night at the club.” because she unconditionally supported me McMichael graduated from Bennett on May 5 … and made a way for me to experience as class valedictorian, with a near-perfect 3.9 To say McMichael made the most of her life outside of the U.S. I have never had a GPA and with an acceptance letter to attend Bennett experience is an understatement. professor who went out of his or her way for Columbia University for graduate school this She was a member of the Psychology Club, me the way she did.” fall. Residential Life, Belles of Distinction Dance Co., Campus Ministries and the Spanish Club. McMichael had no expectations of Bennett In an inspiring Commencement speech, She served as president of the Psychology before enrolling and actually came across the McMichael shared three lessons she learned Club and vice president of the Spanish Club, institution while she and a friend were surfing at Bennett: she had to take responsibility for was also a Lina H. McCord Ambassador of the Internet for colleges. her shortcomings; being successful requires the Black College Fund through the United hard work; and she couldn’t go through life Methodist Church and an HBCU All-Star at “My friend expressed how she always wanted alone. The White House. to go to an all-black college, so we decided to look more into what Bennett had to offer,” “If Bennett taught me one thing, it’s that In addition, she traveled abroad to China, McMichael said. “I had never heard about relationships matter,” McMichael said. “This Cuba and Cyprus. Bennett, nor did I tour the campus prior to was a challenging lesson to grasp because I Orientation Week. I just went out on a limb, prefer to keep to myself. However, I quickly “In China I had the experience of working applied and got accepted!” learned that the ‘I-can-do-it-myself’ attitude with native Chinese students to develop new can get me only so far. Honestly, I don’t know ideas to conserve and produce clean energy McMichael, whose hobbies include dancing, what I would have done without the financial, worldwide,” McMichael said. “During writing, speaking, painting, roller skating and mental and spiritual support from my parents, my two-week stay, I gained international singing, may not have known what to expect siblings, aunts and uncles.” network relationships, an understanding of before coming to Bennett, but now that she the Chinese culture, experience navigating has graduated from the College she has fond During her address, McMichael said she had a foreign country and study abroad research memories, among them hanging out with to buckle down at Bennett if she wanted to experience.” friends, enjoying downtown Greensboro, remain in college because her parents, Marty building relationships with Bennett alumnae and Veronica McMichael, couldn’t afford to McMichael went to China during the summer and attending academic conferences. pay for her education outright. of 2016. In July 2017, as an intern for the Community Health and Environment (CHE) She said she’s most going to miss the Bennett “I can recall staying up until midnight till the program through Drexel University, she Sisterhood and the ties she made with library closed to finish my school work and traveled to Cuba. people in Greensboro’s African-American get ahead on readings,” she said. “Even more community. Of course, once she gets to I joined study groups, and I took advantage of “Embarking on that trip opened my eyes New York City in the fall she’ll have many the Writing Center and the Emerging Scholars to another realm of health techniques and opportunities to establish new ties. The Bennett Voice 5 Commencement 2018

6 The Bennett Voice “STRONG WOMEN, KEEP COMING,” REVEREND JESSE JACKSON, SR. EMPHASIZES IN BACCALAUREATE ADDRESS

n an uplifting speech during mentioned were Rosa Parks, now. You must go to graduate which he referenced strong Coretta Scott King and Winnie school right now.” IAfrican-American women Mandela. He also lauded Linda and had the graduates repeat after Brown, the then-9-year-old Kansas Former Bennett College President him, civil rights icon Reverend girl whose U.S. Supreme Court Dr. Julianne Malveaux introduced Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. delivered case overturned school segregation, Jackson. After the address, Bennett College’s Baccalaureate as well as the mother of Moses, Dawkins and Bennett Board address on May 4. who saved her infant son from of Trustees Chair Dr. Gladys being killed by Pharaoh and later Ashe Robinson ’71 bestowed Jackson spoke inside a packed managed to secretly care for him an Honorary Doctor of Humane Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel, without Pharaoh knowing. Letters upon Jackson, who joked the same chapel where 60 years about trying to get into Bennett ago Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. However, Jackson wasn’t finished. decades ago but being refused by delivered a speech. Jackson was He also gave reverence to former Player. with King when he was shot on Bennett President Dr. Willa B. April 4, 1968, at the Lorraine Player, who in 1955 became the Among those at the Baccalaureate Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. first African-American woman Service were former Bennett president of a four-year, fully presidents Dr. Esther Terry ‘61, the Bennett President Dr. Phyllis accredited liberal arts college. only alumna to serve as president, Worthy Dawkins presided over and Dr. Gloria Randle Scott. the Baccalaureate Service, which Player invited King to speak at featured music from the Bennett Bennett in 1958. Likewise, she College Choir, directed by Dorthea encouraged Bennett students to L. Taylor ’99. Many were brought participate in the Civil Rights to their feet after the choir, led by Movement as long as it didn’t graduating senior Danielle Jeffries, interfere with their education. performed a rousing rendition of Jackson noted Bennett’s “When the Saints Go to Worship.” involvement, saying Belles played a critical role in the sit- While referencing historical in movement and should be Jackson gets excited over receiving an figures, Jackson said the phrase, featured alongside the statue Honorary Doctorate degree “strong women keep coming,” commemorating the “A&T Four.” several times throughout his speech. Among the women he Jackson told the graduates they must register to vote – and vote. He also told them not to forget about Bennett and to contribute to it financially. Moreover, in a message about which he seemed impassioned, he encouraged them to continue their education beyond the undergraduate level.

“You are not the tomorrow leaders. You are the right now leaders,” Jackson poses with Bennett President Dr. Jackson said. “You must love right Phyllis Worthy Dawkins and BOT Chair Jackson delivering Baccalaureate address Dr. Gladys Ashe Robinson ’71 inside the Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel The Bennett Voice 7 2018 CLASS PRESIDENT ASPIRES TO BECOME A POLICE OFFICER AND A LAWYER

Bullock graduated high school from she chuckled before answering. Christian Faith Center Academy “It’s going. I’ve always worked in Creedmoor, where she was with newborns or school-aged salutatorian of the class of 2014. children, but this summer I’m with Once at Bennett, she wasted no the 2-year-olds…” time getting acclimated to college life and the rigors of studying. No matter the difficulties she’s facing with the “terrible two’s,” “Through my freshwoman and chances are Bullock will one day sophomore years, I was on the reflect on the summer of 2018 and Bullock delivering Senior Class honors and dean’s lists and was fully appreciate the experience – President speech at Baccalaureate inducted into the Alpha Lambda much as she already appreciates her Honors Society and the Honors Bennett College experience. uring her final year at College,” Bullock said. “My Bennett College, Joy junior year I was co-founder “Going to Bennett was probably Bullock was Senior Class D and vice president of Divine the best thing I could have done. President. Unity Mentoring Program, a I was interested in other schools campus organization that mentors and even got accepted into some, “My vice president and I worked freshwomen. My senior year I but Bennett was a good fit for me,” on providing new opportunities for managed to serve as class president Bullock said. “I received a good the class, things such as career fairs, even though I carried a full credit mix of nurturing and independence marketing programs and branding/ load of 18 hours.” at Bennett, and I learned a lot both self-imaging sessions,” Bullock inside and outside the classroom. I said. “While serving my term, I Bullock, who graduated with a thank all of the people at Bennett faced a lot of challenges. But it was degree in political science in May, College and at home, particularly nothing I couldn’t handle or didn’t said she enjoyed working with her my parents John and Priscilla expect. However, if I had to serve team, advisors, Alumnae Affairs, Bullock, who have helped me so far again, I’d challenge myself to think the President’s Office and Dr. along my journey.” more outside the box.” Phyllis Worthy Dawkins in her role as class president. “I thank What Bullock learned as class Bennett College for affording me president will undoubtedly come the unforgettable opportunity to in handy if she’s successful in her serve, and I’m now ready to take future endeavors. the leadership skills and knowledge I’ve obtained into the next chapter “I’m going through my process of my life.” with the Raleigh Police Department and take my physical training As Bullock prepares mentally and and comprehension tests on July physically for the police officer’s 10,” said Bullock of Henderson. exam, she’s working at Greenglo “I decided my sophomore year Daycare Center in her hometown – that I want to be an officer, but Bullock is all smiles after members a job she’s finding a bit challenging. of the Class of 2018 practice for my ultimate goal is to attend law Commencement school at North Carolina Central She has worked at Greenglo since University in Durham. I want her freshwoman year; however, to practice family, criminal and when asked how the job is going poverty law.” 8 The Bennett Voice Baccalaureate 2018

The Bennett Voice 9 BENNETT ALUMNAE COMBINE FOR 90 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THEIR ALMA MATER function as a team versus as an autonomous both are proud members of Delta Sigma situation. After four years I tried to step Theta Sorority, Inc. Moreover, they both love down, but at a White Breakfast they gave me Bennett. roses and had a jazz soloist sing ‘The Wind Beneath My Wings.’ ” “I love Bennett from the depths of my soul because it has truly been an anchor and a The touching tribute, Watts said, moved her launching pad for me personally, for my to tears and to more years at the helm. “I career and for the influence with which I didn’t want our chapter to fold. Bennett has could impact others in education…” Watts been good to all of us.” said.

Of course, all good things must come to an Now that she’s no longer chapter president, end. Therefore, last year when Watts decided Watts still strongly supports Bennett and was Paschall-Shade ’ 48 enjoying tributes at her it was time for someone else to lead the just on campus for Alumnae Weekend 2018. 90th Birthday Party Durham chapter, she stuck to it. o say Ernestine Paschall-Shade and So was Paschall-Shade, who had hoped to Dr. Bernadette Gregory Watts have “There are other people whose talents and reconnect with some of her classmates from devoted a considerable number skills need to be recognized, lifted up and the class of 1948. T supported,” she said. “And this time around of years to Bennett College is, well, an understatement. I was determined to make sure someone else “Not only do I love Bennett, but I feel that became the president.” Bennett provided me with a foundation,” A native of Lenoir, North Carolina, Paschall-Shade said. “My Bennett sisters Paschall-Shade has served her alma mater Jacqueline Anderson, a member of the class mean so much to me. You know I have Delta since graduating in 1948. She has been of 1970, now leads the Durham chapter. sisters, but I feel more sisterly to my Bennett parliamentarian and secretary of the National However, Watts still attends chapter meetings sisters. We went to college together. We went Alumnae Association, president of the Los and supports Bennett any way she can. through the good times, the bad times and the Angeles chapter, president of the Western fun times.” North Carolina chapter and is currently “I will always be an ambassador for Bennett,” financial secretary of the Western North Watts said. “My not being in a leadership Paschall-Shade celebrated her 70th reunion Carolina chapter. role doesn’t determine my level of activity, during Alumnae Weekend, and on May 4, she financial support or other things, but I think attended the graduation of her granddaughter, Paschall-Shade is also quoted on page 127 in we’re richer for having diverse leadership.” Christina Rankin, who earned a Bachelor of “Giving Back: A Tribute to Generations of Fine Arts in Sculpture and Ceramics from African American Philanthropists” by Valaida Paschall-Shade is a native North Carolinian, UNC Greensboro. Fullwood. but during the 46 years she was some 2,170 miles from Greensboro, she kept her eyes on On June 7, Paschall-Shade celebrated another “A great sense of pride and commitment Bennett the entire time. milestone – turning 90! Pamela Paschall flew filled me when I served as president of our in from China to celebrate her daughter’s Bennett chapter,” Paschall-Shade says in “Even though I moved to L.A., I started graduation and her mom’s 70th Bennett the book. “I am a Bennett College legacy, attending annual NAA meetings,” she said. reunion and 90th birthday. During a party for and the education I received there carries “Because I was attending the meetings I Paschall-Shade on June 8, Lenoir Mayor Joe tremendous significance. My father graduated became national parliamentarian and then I Gibbons presented her with the Key to the from Bennett prior to it becoming a women’s was national secretary, so I stayed in touch City. college, my aunts and cousins were graduates with Bennett even when I was away. In fact, and my daughter attended Bennett, too.” I was president of the chapter for about three Paschall-Shade thoroughly enjoyed her party, or four years in Los Angeles. I’ve stayed so but as her family and friends celebrated her, Watts, a 1971 graduate, recently retired as active with Bennett in the 70 years since I chances are great that Bennett College wasn’t president of the Durham chapter after holding graduated because of my love for Bennett. far from her thoughts. the position for 18 years. I don’t recall too much of my life when I wasn’t involved with Bennett.” Although she enjoyed serving Bennett, Watts tried, unsuccessfully, to relinquish her Paschall-Shade’s and Watts’ lives rather presidency a few times during her tenure that mirror each other. began after a previous president became ill. They are both very active with Bennett “There was a period when someone else College. They both helped organize events served as interim,” Watts said. “Eventually featuring Bennett’s Choir in the spring I took up the gauntlet thinking it was going semester. They both sing the praises of to be a two-year time frame. I just tried to Audrey Demps Franklin ’72, Bennett’s embrace the ideas of others and make it executive director of alumnae relations. They Watts ’71 outside Bennett’s Global Learning 10 The Bennett Voice Center ALUMNAE LEAD BENNETT GIVING WITH MAJOR GIFTS AND BROAD PARTICIPATION

ccording to a survey by “It’s not uncommon for me to get a pediatrician who graduated from U.S. News & World Report, telephone call, text or email from an Bennett in 1992, said she started Aamong Historically Black alumna asking how she can help the giving to Bennett when she was in Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) College,” Dawkins said. “That shows residency training and could finally that provided data, the giving rate they care about their alma mater, and afford to do so. Like Young, Warner for their alumni is 11.2%, compared they know we rely heavily on their is grateful for the financial assistance to a national average of 25.8% for support.” Bennett provided her. private baccalaureate colleges. Bennett College National Alumnae “I received a full Presidential However, Bennett College, with an Association chapter members like scholarship to attend Bennett,” alumnae participation rate of 35%, Dr. Alice Holloway Young say Warner said. “My parents wouldn’t was touted in that July 2017 report they will always give to Bennett have been able to afford a private for ranking third in giving among because Bennett gave so much to education for me since I had an older all HBCUs behind Spelman College them. Young, a 1944 Belle and sister at A&T at the same time.” in Atlanta, Georgia, and Claflin retired educator, enrolled in Bennett University in Orangeburg, South after hearing about the Institution Warner, who said Bennett gave her Carolina. Bennett and Spelman have from a teacher who’d taught at her “the knowledge and confidence she the distinction of being the nation’s elementary school. The teacher needed to succeed in medical school,” only two all-women’s HBCUs. thought Young would be a good isn’t surprised that her alma mater candidate for Bennett, and she even consistently ranks in the Top Three in “Bennett College alumnae helped her fill out the academic work HBCU alumni giving. consistently step up to the plate to scholarship application. contribute in a major way to their “I know my Bennett sisters love alma mater,” said President Dr. “It really was a work scholarship, too, our school as much as I do. And Phyllis Worthy Dawkins. “Since because I scrubbed floors, washed the friendly rivalry between the arriving at Bennett as Provost windows and shined brass on the Greensboro Alumnae chapter and the in November 2015, I’ve been doorknobs in the residence halls,” said Metro Washington, D.C. Alumnae thoroughly impressed with the way Young who lives in Rochester, New chapter also helps. If we don’t support Bennett’s alumnae donate their York. “The scholarship I received was Bennett, how can we ask others who money and time to the Institution.” for $2,500, which covered all four aren’t alums to support us?” years.” With 10 days left in the fiscal year Audrey Demps Franklin ’72, ending on June 30, 2018, Bennett Young has established an endowed executive director of Alumnae Alumnae had already donated scholarship in her name at Bennett. Relations, said she’s proud of the way $1,577,182.44 to their alma mater, “I give back because of that $2,500 her Bennett sisters have shown up including three gifts of $100,000 scholarship. It gives me good joy to for the College this fiscal year. Every and one gift of $400,000. Their give back to Bennett.” time Bennett calls, Franklin said, benevolence significantly eclipses alumnae answer. last year’s $1,000,085 contribution. Dr. Pamela Warner, a Greensboro “And what’s really encouraging are young alums who give because they can influence other young alumnae,” Franklin said. “Sometimes people think they have to wait until they’re older and more established to contribute financially or to join the National Alumnae Association, but the reality is alumnae are never too young to start giving back to Bennett. We appreciate and accept all contributions – no matter the Bennett Belles saluting their alma mater during the 2018 Alumnae Weekend White Breakfast amount.” The Bennett Voice 11 Alumnae Weekend 2018

12 The Bennett Voice Alumnae Weekend 2018

The Bennett Voice 13 SOPRANO SASHA KING COMPETES IN SEMI-FINALS OF NATIONAL SINGING COMPETITION IN LAS VEGAS

ennett College senior Taylor said King competed in two Sasha King has a powerful, very different categories leading up Bbeautiful voice. So powerful to her semi-finals performance in and beautiful, in fact, that it carried Vegas. her all the way to Las Vegas in late June for semi-finals of the National “Sasha’s gospel background and Association of Teachers of Singing influence tend to make its way Classical Auditions. into all of her singing, which is one of her greatest challenges in King, a music major who will mastering both the Concert Spiritual graduate in December, flew to Las and Classical Repertoire,” Taylor Vegas with Bennett College Choir said. “Knowing that sometimes Director Dorthea L. Taylor ’99 and causes her to pull back during competed against 13 other singers. performances, which deprives the King ’18 preparing to compete in Vegas audience from truly experiencing “Sasha gave a very strong the full glory of her instrument. earned first-place honors from performance,” Taylor said. “As I the N.C. chapter of the National listened to all of the competitors “As we prepare for her senior recital Association of Teachers of Singing with a non-biased ear, I knew in September, we will continue Classical Auditions, held in that Sasha wouldn’t make finals. working through these challenges,” February in Winston-Salem. She However, I was extremely proud of Taylor explained. “In September, also placed third in March in the how far she had come. Sasha King Sasha will present a recital of Arias, Hall Johnson Spirituals category at is a fierce competitor and left her all art songs, spirituals and gospel the Mid-Atlantic Regional Student on that stage. She performed “Ain’t to highlight the diversity of her Auditions in Lynchburg, Virginia, Got Time to Die,” “Witness” and instrument.” where she also participated in “Fix Me Jesus,” all arranged by Hall the Classical category. The Mid- Johnson.” Before arriving in Vegas, King Atlantic Region includes students from North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia.

A member of the Bennett College Choir since her freshwoman year, King invokes images of renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson when she sings. Taylor, who also sang in the choir during her time at Bennett, said it’s been great watching King’s evolution.

“It’s my job to ensure that my students are well-equipped to compete. Being a big fish in a small pond can make you lose sight of what you’re up against,” Taylor said. “Losing to the caliber King performing a solo during Founder’s Day in the Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel of performers that competed in 14 The Bennett Voice Vegas isn’t losing at all – it’s “Competing in Las Vegas was come to hear me perform when enlightenment. I want my students a great experience,” said King, they can, and I’m always comforted to know I have faith in them. who started singing at age 5 in when I see them sitting in the The competition was about the her church, In Truth Ministries in audience.” teacher as much as it was about Reidsville, North Carolina, and the singer. A student can compete hopes to attend seminary school Taylor said King and Bennett’s only if her teacher is a member after graduating. “The competition other 17 choir members had an in good standing. I’m proud to be taught me that I’m capable of doing excellent year. Besides performing acknowledged as the teacher of anything. Even though I didn’t win, on campus, or at various events or Sasha King, a name that will one I’m grateful for the opportunity, churches in the Greensboro area, day be well known.” and I know that this is only the the Choir also performed in Durham beginning of my career. I thank and Hickory at fund raising events In April, King and fellow choir God for placing people in my life sponsored by the Durham and member Danielle Jeffries, who such as Ms. Taylor, who encouraged Western North Carolina chapters of graduated in May, represented me to go beyond what I’ve always the National Alumnae Association. Bennett in Memphis at the 50th known.” Anniversary Celebration of the “As a teacher, you often wonder if death of Martin Luther King, Jr. King said she’s also thankful for her you’re truly making an impact on The women sang solos during the parents, Walter and Gail King, who the students for whose education commemoration. have always been supportive of her you are responsible,” Taylor said. musical pursuits. “During the spring semester I Certainly, King flew to Vegas with pushed my students extremely hard hopes of winning the competition. “My parents never let me settle and they met and exceeded every However, despite not making it to for less than my best,” King said. challenge with a level of excellence the finals she is upbeat about her “They always encourage me not to that would make any teacher stand performance. let fear stop me from doing what I proudly and boast about their love, which is singing. My parents accomplishments.”

Bennett College Choir performing at the Alumnae Choir Concert during Alumnae Weekend 2018 The Bennett Voice 15 CYERA BONNER TALKS ADVERSITY AND FAITH yera Bonner knows all about adversity. At age 4 doctors discovered Cher eardrums weren’t fully developed and fitted her with hearing aids. Once she enrolled in school, classmates often bullied her because of her disability.

The worst incident happened when she was in the eighth grade and a classmate she thought was a friend poured hand sanitizer over her head. The liquid got in her hearing aids, causing her parents to spend hundreds of dollars to replace them.

However, that was nine years ago. Bonner hasn’t forgotten the mistreatment but isn’t In order of appearance (L-R) Art Instructor: Darlene J. McClinton, Senior Artists: Cyera dwelling on it. These days she has pretty Bonner, Jasmin Dixon-Lewis, Janessa Johnson, Shani McMichael, Jordan Bonnette and much one thing on her mind: Saving enough Angelina Bryant pose for group shot in gallery displaying their art money from her job so she can eventually move to New York City and try to make it from above. there as an artist. Three days later at the Gallery, they discussed “I majored in theater because I wanted to their art with Bennett President Dr. Phyllis “No weapon formed against me shall use theater and art to bridge the gap that Worthy Dawkins, senior administrators, prosper,” Bonner said recently, quoting exists between people with disabilities and faculty, staff and members of the Board of Isaiah 54:17. “I went through a lot when I others,” she said. “You hear a lot about Trustees. Three days before graduation, was younger, but by the grace of God and human trafficking, the Opioid crisis and other Bonner and four other Belles performed with the help of my parents, my sister and problems, which are all serious issues. But I inside Tubman Little Theatre during “Senior my cousins, I’ve made it to this point. God is don’t think there’s as much awareness given Showcase.” On that day, Bonner displayed good.” to people with disabilities and what we face. her talents in a one-woman show that lasted I hope to bring awareness to the fact that 15 minutes and began with the song, “Won’t Bonner, of Wilson, North Carolina, people like me can do the same things as He Do It” by Koryn Hawthorne. received her Bachelor of Arts in Theatre everyone else if given a chance.” on May 5. Her parents, Marcia and Tony “I did one monologue and one dialogue,” Bonner, younger sister Jordan, and a host On April 17, Bonner and fellow graduating Bonner said. “I also danced to Marvin Sapp’s of family and friends were in Greensboro seniors Jordan Bonnette, Angelina Bryant, song, ‘Praise Him in Advance,’ and did sign for her graduation. She’s thankful it was Jasmine Dixon-Lewis, Janessa Johnson language. My performance showed what I’ve livestreamed as her paternal grandparents, and Shani McMichael had a showing at the learned throughout the five years I’ve been a Claude and Jean Bonner, couldn’t make Wilbur Steele Hall Art Gallery on campus. theater major at Bennett.” the trip to the Triad. She said her deceased Adjunct art instructor Darlene Glenn- maternal grandmother, Joyce Turner, watched McClinton accompanied them. During her time on stage, Bonner was careful not to look at Tenille Foust, an associate professor of visual arts.

“I knew if I looked at her I’d start crying,” Bonner said. “Ms. Foust has been like a second mom to me and has encouraged me a lot. She’s had one-on-one talks with me about not giving up, and she always told me not to let the devil steal my joy.”

Bonner plans to work for a year and start paying off her student loans before leaving the confines of Wilson for the bright lights and the big city, where she hopes to earn a living by performing on Broadway.

It’s a lofty goal, to be sure. Yet Bonner isn’t too worried about her chances, saying, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens Bonner proudly poses between two of her art pieces me.”

16 The Bennett Voice TWICE AS NICE: GRAHAM TWINS ARE READY TO TAKE THE WORLD BY STORM

in the Psi Chi International Honor Society means they maintained a minimum GPA of 3.0. They also held offices in Sisters of Service – with Cierra as the club’s secretary and Imani as its publicist.

In addition, they tried to help recruit for Bennett by serving on a panel in their hometown and sharing their Bennett experience with others.

They say among their fondest Bennett memories was going to Charleston, S.C., because they’d never been to Cierra and Imani Graham ’18 sitting outside the Global Learning Center the Palmetto state. Now that they’ve graduated, they plan to intern at a law uring their four years at firm this summer and enter graduate Bennett College, sisters Cierra “We’re grateful for the opportunities school in the fall. Imani wants to Dand Imani Graham did pretty we received at Bennett College and practice criminal law; Cierra wants to much everything together: are ready to enter a new chapter of our practice family law. lives while taking with us all the things They majored in psychology and we learned at Bennett,” Imani said. The women say they will miss Bennett minored in sociology; got inducted “What we liked most about Bennett College. into the Psi Chi International Honors was the student/teacher ratio because Society; joined Sisters of Service and the class size made learning less “We’re going to miss all the women were initiated in the Zeta Xi Chapter of intimidating and allowed students to we met at Bennett who became our Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. reach their full potential.” friends, our sisters or who helped us in some way,” Cierra said. “Their support That they did so much together isn’t It’s fair to say the women reached their was really vital to us throughout our surprising given Cierra and Imani are potential and then some. Membership four years.” twins.

“I don’t think my classmates were used to having twins on campus,” Cierra said. “Even as we were approaching graduation they still tried to tell us apart and figure out our differences.”

It was common to see “the twins” together on campus, and one of their favorite hangout spots was the patio area in the back of the Global Learning Center.

From Washington, D.C. and the parents of Yolanda Carey and Michael Graham, the women said they initially heard about Bennett from an alumna who is a close family friend. Cierra and Imani grinning from ear to ear right before walking across the stage The Bennett Voice 17 OPHELIA MURRAY IS SOARING DURING SUMMER INTERNSHIP AT NIKE’S WORLD HEADQUARTERS

During Ophelia Murray’s first day on her teaches, including diversity and inclusion, summer internship at Nike, she attended the sisterhood, self-discipline and how a woman sportswear giant’s North America meeting. should represent herself has bode well for me “I got to interact with senior leaders, this summer at Nike.” including some from Toronto and New York. I participated in group activities with them as When speaking publicly or working on a if I worked there and as if I were part of the major project, Murray visualizes how her team.” biggest Bennett influences, Dr. Gwendolyn M. Bookman and Dr. Santiba Campbell, On day two, Murray told Nike employees would handle themselves. Bennett College about growing up in Philadelphia’s inner city President Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins said and being raised by a single parent after her students like Murray – and professors like father’s passing. Bookman and Campbell – are a testament to the Institution’s strength. “I told them my life has been kind of hard but that I’m a rising senior at Bennett College and “Bennett College has many talented students I’ve studied abroad and I’ve made it out of who, like Ophelia, are excelling academically basically nothing,” Murray said. “People were and outside the classroom,” Dawkins said. in there crying and showing so much love and “We’re grateful to Nike for giving Ophelia support and really embracing me as family.” such a wonderful opportunity this summer, and we hope Bennett’s relationship with Nike Murray graduates from Bennett in the spring continues after Ophelia’s internship ends.” of 2019. However, this summer the political science major and aspiring attorney is One of Nike’s marketing managers offered making a name for herself at Nike’s world Murray ’19 posing in front of iconic Michael Murray the chance to shadow him, so the Jordan logo at Nike headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. two met in mid-June. “He gave me advice on how I can get the most out of this internship “I had no idea Shauncey was going to “The Jordan Brand’s Wings Scholars program and how to succeed in it,” she said. “He was ask me to speak,” Murray said in a phone is dedicated to helping Ophelia and other encouraging and gave me a new way to look interview. “But the Jordan Wings Program young people reach their highest potential at everything. He told me to network and to pays my tuition so I’ll do anything for her. through the power of education,” said meet as many people as I can.” She texted me after my first day and asked if Shauncey Mashia, global community brand I could come to the meeting and tell what the manager for the Jordan Brand. “Ophelia Additionally, Murray expects to get an scholarship has done for me, what it means to embodies the core values of Wings and strives assignment from Nike’s legal department. me and how it has impacted me.” for the highest standard of greatness as a college student and intern.” “I’ve met with someone in legal but haven’t Murray’s internship ends on August 16. been given my project yet,” she said. “I sat Instead of returning to Bennett this fall, she Suffice it to say, Murray’s internship has in on a meeting about how different contracts will study abroad at Westminster University gotten off to a great start. are developed, during which they broke down in London. the contracts and showed what both parties “For my first two days the tone was set and felt were appropriate. It was kind of like “Bennett has definitely prepared me for all of the bar was high,” she said. “I just felt like watching a lawyer formulate a contract.” this,” Murray said. “Everything that Bennett from that point forward it was someplace I belonged, where I felt appreciated and Though the internship keeps her busy, Murray valued.” talks by phone or text to her mother Shelcia Collier daily. She’s also incorporating fun into This summer, Nike has 216 interns from her time in the Pacific Northwest. various U.S. colleges and universities. Only three, including Murray, work specifically for “Portland is beautiful. I go hiking, I go to the Jordan Brand. the lake, I exercise and I do yoga,” Murray said. “I’ve made so many friends and actually Assuming high-profile roles isn’t new to found a Bennett soror who crossed in 2001. Murray. She was Bennett’s 2017-2018 She’s been showing me around Portland and Junior Class President, served as Secretary introducing me to other AKAs. Life is great!” General of the Model United Nations and was a member of Bennett’s Quiz Bowl Team. Undoubtedly, Murray’s Nike experience will She’s also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha have a far-reaching impact on the Bennett Sorority, Inc. Belle from Philly who constantly illustrates Murray proudly holding the Nike logo at her what it means to soar. workstation 18 The Bennett Voice 2018 GRADUATES HEADED TO CHINA TO TEACH ENGLISH

has the final say,” Stevenson said. could always have her around,” “I’ll be in China for a year, but I plan said Foust. “Since her freshwoman on re-signing my contract for another year, I’ve seen her grow in ways year in a different country.” that bring tears to my eyes. She’s the example that incoming freshwomen Stevenson earned a bachelor’s degree need to witness, to confirm that in business administration, with a the way you enter Bennett is NOT concentration in management and a the way you’ll leave. I’ve been minor in entrepreneurship, in May. blessed to see her blossom into a She found out about Bennett on a professional black woman.” college tour during her senior year at Upper Darby Senior High School. Stevenson worked with Foust on two productions she directed at “Bennett exceeded my expectations Greensboro’s Barn Dinner Theatre because black girls like me from and also served as Foust’s stage Stevenson ’18 in front of the Bearden Gate single-parent households in manager for numerous productions Philadelphia rarely make it out,” on campus. aylah Stevenson says while Stevenson said. “Bennett taught me growing up in Philadelphia, how to open up and showed me it’s “She was my wheel in the middle of she never really gave too K okay to be vulnerable. I learned how a wheel when life was challenging much thought to traveling. to see things through and to never me,” Foust said. “It did something quit on myself. I also learned when to my heart when ‘life’ knocked on “I didn’t ever imagine leaving Philly people are rude and nasty to me, her door and she’d come to me for until I came to Bennett,” Stevenson to show them love, kindness and advice or just for me to serve as a said. “But when I went on a summer support. And through relationships I listening ear. I wish Kaylah success trip in 2017 with President Dawkins maintained with professors, staff and unlike any other in China, and I’m to South Korea and saw the beauty some of my Bennett sisters, I learned certain she’ll represent Bennett in traveling, that’s when I decided I how to effectively articulate and that well!” wanted to travel more and one day presentation is key.” work abroad.” Stevenson is working at Bennett this At Bennett, Stevenson served summer, splitting her time between One day is almost here. as president of the Pre-Alumnae the Institutional Advancement and Council and as SGA secretary during Financial Aid offices. She’s also On August 22, Stevenson and fellow her junior year. She also became counting the days until she boards May graduate Chelsea Tubbs leave a member of Delta Sigma Theta the first of two planes for what will for China – Stevenson to Beijing Sorority, Inc. Her biggest role model ultimately be 14 hours of flying and Tubbs to Shanghai. They’re is her mother, Karen Stevenson, a time. scheduled to teach for a year through nurse who constantly inspires her. EF English First, a program that, “I’m still in the process of getting according to its website, “has been Helping to guide her at Bennett my work visa,” Stevenson providing English language lessons were Audrey Demps Franklin ’72, said. “And we have to get our for over 20 years in more than 300 executive director of alumnae immunization shots through China’s English First schools across China, relations, Tammy McNeil, assistant medical system once we get there. Russia and Indonesia.” professor, business and economics, I’m just living my best life and and Tenille Foust, associate professor, enjoying my last summer out of Naturally they’re thrilled about the visual arts and coordinator. The undergrad with my friends and venture. women are certain she’ll thrive in family before I take off to go abroad. Asia. I’m thinking positively about my “I’m beyond excited about this future, and I’m grateful to Bennett opportunity, which shows that no “Kaylah is the type of student that College for helping me get to this matter what people say, God always you wish you could clone so you point.” The Bennett Voice 19 BENNETT COLLEGE 900 E. WASHINGTON STREET GREENSBORO, N.C. 27401 BENNETT.EDU

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