winT er 2011 / U niV ersiTY news

Claude G. Perkins, Ph.d.

Homecoming Destroyer nameD Dr. Perkins celebration! for vuu alum inauguration P age 4 P age 6 P age 10 VUUFrom The President dear Alumni and Friends of Virginia union university: 2010 was a year of great achievement for Virginia union university. At the december 2010 meeting of the Southern Association winter 2011 / university news of colleges and Schools, the university was reaffirmed for re- accreditation for the next 10 years, with no stipulations.

the reaffirmation process is a rigorous, intensive program tABLE OF CONt ENtS designed to ensure that schools are adhering to a set of well-

defined educational standards and that they are committed to CAMPUS NEWS institutional improvement. the overall reaffirmation process VUU Receives Grants 2 requires an institution to demonstrate its compliance with core Alpha Kappa Mu Revitalized 3 requirements, comprehensive standards and federal regulations. Homecoming 4 What that means is that Virginia union university has successfully VUU Goes To Austria 7 lived up to our mission of providing quality academic programs, Campus Activities 8 while maintaining the university’s financial viability. Further, it is

a guarantee to our students that the education they are receiving COVER St ORY here is a sound and worthy investment. Inauguration 10

this accomplishment would not have been possible without AtHLEt ICS the disciplined work of our faculty and staff; and the dedicated The Forgotten Champion 16 support of our alumni and friends. However, as we celebrate this Athletic Schedules 19 success, we cannot be content to rest on our laurels. Virginia union must continue to recruit and retain quality students and Unionite Magazine is pUblished FACULt Y/St AFF NEWS faculty. We must continue to engage alumni, corporate, and seMi-annUally by the office of Faculty Profiles 20 pUblic Relations foR alUMni and foundation support. We must continue to build a “student- fRiends of ViRginia Union UniVeRsity. Dr. Gerard McShepard 21 centered” environment, where we all understand and embrace ViR ginia Union UniVeRsity 1500 North Lombardy Street Margaret Duckworth 22 the notion that the success of our students is directly connected Richmond, VA 23220 Ronald A. Shelton 23 and interrelated to those measures that serve as indicators to 804.257.5860 www.vuu.edu Dr. Carleitta Paige 24 judge our own accomplishments within the academy. Faculty and Staff Updates 25 Claude G. Perkins, Ph.D. Virginia union’s path is well-lit. the future is promising. Our faith President strengthens our actions. We focus on possibility thinking, not ALUMNI NEWS Editor restrictive analysis. We choose to invest our very best in planting Shena L. Crittendon ’92 Samuel Gravely Dedication 6 Assistant to the President/Director of Public Relations seeds of greatness in the lives of our students. Why I Give 26 Design College Company In Memoriam 28 the pages of this magazine will give you a brief glimpse into the Contributing Writers Alumni Updates 29 life and work of this institution. enjoy the articles. come to visit. Shena L. Crittendon ’92 Mary DePillars, ’74 tell the Vuu story. We are more than what we have been, but not Charmica Epps ’08 Jim Junot yet all that we will be! Kristie N. Swink

Photography Sincerely, Rudolph Powell Cover: Richmond Center Ayasha N. Sledge Stage was the venue for the claude G. Perkins, Ph.d. Send Questions or Comments about Unionite Magazine to: inauguration of Dr. Claude G. Shena L. Crittendon Perkins on September 10, 2010 [email protected] President PHoTos THis Page: Beautiful table Send Alumni News and Chapter Updates to: arrangements at the President’s Charmica Epps Inauguration dinner. [email protected] VUUHonors vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture© VUU Awarded Grants ALPHA KAPPA MU Back on Campus ON O CtOBER 28, 2010, IN FRONt OF StUdENtS, FACULtY, ALUMNI ANd The Dominion Foundation, the g UEStS, 24 VIRg INIA U NION U NIVERSItY StUdENtS WERE INd UCtEd INtO t HE philanthropic arm of Dominion REVIt ALIzEd, KAPPA EtA CHAPt ER OF A LPHA K APPA M U . Resources (NYSE: D), has awarded Virginia Union University a alpha Kappa Mu is a general scholarship honor society open to junior and senior men and women in all academic areas. it has $40,000 grant. been inactive at Virginia Union University for more than five years, the grant will be used to teach juniors and but has recently reactivated its status as a registered organization seniors the six sigma business management on campus. its purpose will be to promote high scholarship, strategy to enhance their business training encourage sincere and zealous endeavors in all fields of and to improve the likelihood of becoming knowledge and service; to cultivate a high order of personal living; credentialed. the course will include an and develop an appreciation for scholarly work and scholarly introduction to six sigma levels, a green endeavor in others. Belt credential, and team projects to define the revitalization of this scholastic organization brings excitement problems, collect and analyze data and to academics. students are charged to continue their pursuit of submit solutions. knowledge. “they are excited about this, being recognized for Dominion is one of the nation’s largest their academic achievement”, says Dr. Linda schlichting, Dean of producers and transporters of energy, with a Humanities and social science. “they see themselves as leaders for portfolio of approximately 27,600 megawatts other students.” of generation. Dominion operates the nation’s From left, Dr. Adelaja Odutola, Dean Sydney Lewis School of Business; Linda the history of alpha Kappa Mu dates back to 1937 at tennessee largest natural gas storage system and serves Jackson, Director of Sponsored Programs; Ken Barker, a Dominion vice state University in nashville. inductees must be in their junior retail energy customers in 12 states. president; and Penni Sweetenburg-Lee, Director of Career Services year with at least a 3.3 grade point average on the 4.0 scale. they should be ranked in the upper 10 percent of the class and exemplify good character, the potential for leadership, and service. there are a total of 64 active chapters and more than 91,000 The Mead Westvaco (MWV) Foundation Board of Directors approved a $200,000 gift to Virginia members nationally. Union to support STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) initiatives.

the grant will be used to cover the cost of the steM summer institute, led by Dr. Phillip archer, Dean of the school of Mathematics, science and technology, and will also provide financial assistance to steM students.

according to Dr. archer, “With corporate and other external support, VUU can further assist in reducing the shortage of under- represented students in steM professions by attracting more students to VUU science and technology-related programs with corporate based internship opportunities and academic scholarships earmarked for top performing undergraduate steM majors.”

the Mead Westvaco foundation strives to strengthen and enrich the communities where MWV has major operations, and where MWV employees and their families live and work.

vUU needs yoUr CommiTmenT and sUPPorT. To make an ongoing differenCe in THe lives of oUr sTUdenTs, ConTaCT THe division of insTiTUTional advanCemenT aT 804.342.3938 or Use THe enveloPe enClosed in THis issUe for yoUr ConvenienCe.

2 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 3 VUUFeatures HoMeCoMing 2010 vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture© Rejuvenated, Reinvigorated, ReUNIONited …and it feels so good!

4 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 5 15 austria trip 1/2 page

14-15 samuel graveley dedication 1.5 pages

VUUHonors vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture©

ViC e aDMiraL saMUeL graVeLy graDUateD froM Reprinted with permission of navy times. Virginia Union UniV ersity in 1948. Editor’s Note - Vice Admiral Samuel Gravely graduated from Virginia Union University in 1948. He was a former president of the National Alumni Association and the Samuel Destroyer Named for Pioneer Gravely L. Gravely Capital Beltway Alumni Chapter is sixty-eight degree “internationalize named in his honor. weather, snow the general capped mountains, education and a beautiful Curriculum.” the Joins Fleet radiant sunset is implementation of how Patricia Murray, this proposal will By saM feLLMan assistant Professor include exposing in the sydney VUU students to WILMINGTON, N.C. — The Navy’s newest Lewis school of the fundamentals Business at Virginia of global citizenship destroyer was commissioned in a ceremony Union University, which is defined that recalled the extraordinary career of remembers the as the functioning the ship’s namesake, an officer who sights of salzburg, austria. Ms. Murray, Dr. W. awareness of culture, economic and socio- franklin evans, Vice President of academic political characteristics of other countries shattered the Navy’s color barrier more affairs, and Dr. David adewuyi, Director of outside of one’s own domestic frame of than six decades ago. the Center for international studies, traveled reference. this process commences with from richmond, Virginia to fellowship with the freshman year and continues through the 57th arleigh Burke-class destroyer is leaders from near and far as they focused the student’s graduation. With the timeline on the benefits and the implementation of in place and the seven member committee named for Vice adm. samuel gravely, who Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely, Jr., center, globalization among their campuses during at work, the plan will be implemented by overcame entrenched discrimination to Vice Adm. Robert P. Coogan, right, and the salzburg global seminar, held october august 2011. now that VUU is a part of achieve a string of firsts in a 38-year naval an unidentified commander, left, salute 30, 2010 through november 6, 2010. after the fellowship, Virginia Union students taking four planes, a train, a bus and a taxi, will soon have a broader perspective on career spanning three wars. He was the during 3rd Fleet change of command ceremonies on board the crusier Reeves evans, Murray and adewuyi finally made it life. “Becoming a part of this fellowship first african-american to be commissioned to salzburg, the fourth largest city in austria. will allow us to network,” said evans. at the Naval Supply Center, Pearl Harbor, through the navy reserve officer training there they took part in several sessions, and Hawaii, on September 10, 1976. enjoyed the salzburg scenery, in a village of Under the direction of adewuyi, the Corps, to captain a warship, to reach flag 120,000 people. they also were able to see a Center for international studies will rank, and to command a fleet. part of history. Many of the week’s sessions serve as the streamline and the nucleus stand. Dozens rose. “Here stands admiral graveley is seventy years old,” roughead He returned to the reserves after the were held in the schloss Leopoldskron, a of the plan of action. “this proposal will help us join the community of “His success was hard-earned, well- gravely’s legacy. i think he would be said. “that is a good investment.” war, but was recalled to active service palace and historic landmark. the schloss Leopoldskron is world famous for being globalized institutions,” said adewuyi. deserved and yes, sometimes painful, in 1949, when President truman proud,” Curtis added. the original film location of the 1965 film but for his sacrifices, high standards, and gravely attended Virginia Union University desegregated the armed forces. “the sound of Music” and has been home though the numbers are improving, minority students, in general, comprise less achievements we will be forever grateful,” in the keynote address, Chief of naval and enlisted in the reserves in 1942. gravely rose through the surface fleet to the salzburg global seminar since 1947. than 10 percent of all american students Vice adm. D.C. Curtis, the naval surface operations adm. gary roughead extolled He entered an officer program and to command the destroyer escort the salzburg global seminar is a leading studying abroad, according to the institute force commander, told the crowd of gravely along with the operational received his commission Dec. 14, 1944. falgout, the destroyer taussig, and global institution that challenges current for international education. some students have only experienced what lies at their thousands. Curtis, who is black, asked versatility and cost effectiveness of the ship Discrimination was ever-present. While he the frigate Jouett. He went on to and future leaders to develop creative ideas for solving global problems. the front and back door, with a lack of exposure all the black captains and admirals, both that now bears his name. was on liberty from his first ship, PC-1264, command 3rd fleet. organization gathers thinkers from different to global issues. as Murray explains, retired and active, in attendance to gravely was arrested for impersonating cultures and professions to develop “everything is not grey and shades of grey. “she will also return the nation’s an officer. “you’re not an officer. i’ve never By the time of his retirement in 1980, strategies for change. for sixty years the students should see other options.” investment in ways that few other seen a negro navy officer,” an army military gravely had served in three wars: World program has been addressing global issues. Virginia Union University applied to become Keeping in line with the university’s systems can, because even though we War ii, Korea, and Vietnam. He died in policeman told him, according to his part of the globalization effort and was mission to develop scholars, leaders, have a very proud commanding officer autobiography, “trailblazer: the U.s. navy’s 2004. He was 82. one of six HBCU’s selected to attend. and lifelong learners of a global society, who will take command of this ship Virginia Union will continue to expand its first Black admiral.” globalization efforts from changes in the today, the last commanding officer of Uss His wife alma gravely served as the “We want to make sure our students have a better understanding of the world around curriculum to studying abroad. as evans, ship’s sponsor and ordered Cmdr. us,” said evans. three representatives Murray, and adewuyi continue with the above: Alma Gravely, left, widow of late Vice Adm. Samuel L. Gravely, speaks on Nov. 20 with Douglas Kunzman and his crew of 275 from each school traveled to explore, implementation of the proposal, students Vice Adm. D.C. Curtis, center, and Rear Adm. D.H. Lewis during the commissioning of the destroyer to “man our ship and bring her to life.” share and gain knowledge regarding will obtain opportunities to study abroad. Gravely. The ship was named after Alma Gravely’s husband, who was the first black man to globalization within their area of study. they sprang into action. adewuyi believes that, “We will prepare command a Navy ship. Preparation for the trip included pulling students globally to advance in their lefT: The officers and crew of the USS Gravely run onto the ship during the commissioning at the together a proposal regarding globalization. future and not limit them to the U.s. but North Carolina State Port in Wilmington on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010. Virginia Union’s proposed action plan is to have experiences in other countries.”

6 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 7 VUUCampus Activities vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture©

Fall 2010 was an exciting

time on the campus of

Virginia Union University.

From career fairs, to

guest lecturers, to

fabulous concerts

by the VUU Choir, to

etiquette dinners, to

VUU going green,

students had many

engaging activities and

our campus was never

quiet. take a look at

some of the many

happenings at your VUU!

8 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 9 VUUCover Story vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture©

Virginia Union is a remarkable institution with an intriguing story to tell – the result of the “union” of a theological institute, a seminary, a women’s college and a men’s college, all of which were very unique. one hundred and forty-five years later we are a testament to that union, a product of the determination, struggle, luck and foresight of our founders and the will of god. We stand now, in 2010, poised to move this institution into its next period of growth and achievement in the midst of uncertainty and a broad array of challenges. But if we look back far enough, we can predict the inevitable and that of a proud tomorrow. so our context is now new and our resolve is steadfast.

in the second Chapter of Corinthians, Paul writes, “no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what god has prepared for those who love Him…”

Virginia Union was founded 145 years ago to educate those who had no access and no opportunity to education… to give hope to the hopeless, a future to those who thought themselves futureless. one hundred and forty-five years later, while our mission has evolved, it has not fundamentally changed. We still exist to provide opportunity and access to a new generation of young men and women from different circumstances. We still exist to help students find their place, and we give them the promise of a limitless future. no mind has conceived what god has prepared for those who love Him.

Virginia Union is a living, breathing example of god’s goodness. there were those who Claude G. Perkins, Ph.D. believed that we shouldn’t even be here. there were those who didn’t see the importance and the significance of being founded at Lumpkin’s Jail. there were those who could not hear any of our amazing accomplishments as we grew from the merger of four institutions into a fantastic Union. and there are those who cannot conceive all that we have become Dr. Claude G. Perkins officially became the 12th President of Virginia Union University on and are yet to be. But i say look around and what do you see now? the manifestation of Union’s greatness September 10, 2010, following a week of celebratory events including a Grand Cantata and an Alumni is shown through the accomplishments of its graduates, and they are many. i know for sure that there is something much greater than me at work here. Conversions have been made and transformations have been realized even from the most despicable situations, Forum. Upon his investiture, Perkins said the “manifestation of Virginia Union’s greatness is evidenced and not a greater example can be seen of that phenomenon than VUU – a shining star in the crown of what is good, decent and moral in the realm of justice and humanity – a by its many graduates…A full transcript of the President’s inaugural address follows: shining star for all to see.

10 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 11 VUUCover Story vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture©

our core value is to provide access My decision was also greatly influenced values, we transform this institution into learn from each other so freely; where else where they have never been and unshackle i have every confidence in Virginia to an intellectual and creative space by the amazing alumni that i met over the the “student-centered” university that it do people have the luxury of structured them from the boundaries of cognitive and Union and our ability to clearly achieve where academically talented, highly years, who all gave the same testimony must be, where the success of our students and unstructured time to search for affective limitations. our objectives. Look at what we have motivated and prepared students can when they said, “i would not be what i am is connected to and a reflection of the commonality and find humanity? accomplished in the last 20 months. i’ve We should provide our students the achieve excellence, regardless of their today had it not been for Virginia Union.” work of our faculty and staff and our VUU witnessed firsthand the magnanimous i realize that some of our students want to kind of knowledge and inquiry skills status or station in life. We offer access, this University has provided opportunity to family. that is my vision for Virginia Union devotion to this University by the Board, stay too long with their engagement, but that will never become obsolete. there and thus create a community that thousands of dedicated students to build a University. i will use all my energy and faculty and students. the immediate we do want them to graduate. are, i believe, certain skills that once recognizes that excellence comes from better life and they are everywhere. Many effort, and call upon you to do the same, challenges we had to address as i began mastered, will serve our students well hard work – that it must be earned. in of the students who enter Virginia Union to ensure that the values, traditions, and as Plato’s allegory of the cave implores my tenure were associated with the re- over the course of their lives… the ability the pursuit of excellence, we expect no may still be the first members of their culture of this great university we treasure man to move from an unenlightened, affirmation of the University’s accreditation, to read with insight and reflection, to less of ourselves. We share a long and families to go to college. some may be the today remains as we move towards a new uninformed state into true enlightenment, the declining enrollment, the quality of use language clearly and effectively, honorable tradition. and together, every fourth generation. regardless, i believe and exciting future together. Changing to so must we also instill in our students academic programs and facility needs. We to embrace the scientific method and day, we create something that did not it is our duty, our inherent responsibility remain the same! going back to the future. that one cannot be ignorant and be truly immediately identified a course that would to think analytically, and to appreciate exist before. We do not mind the heavy to aid them in acquiring the tools needed that is my vision, and it must be ours free. Let me repeat that. you cannot be lead to the resolution of our most pressing artistic expression. so, as a liberal arts lifting as that only builds our strength to become successful, productive, and collectively for we are all beneficiaries and ignorant and be free. true freedom comes concerns. Working with a very tight university, we must actively engage and makes us more determined. powerful citizens of the world. deserving of something this special. from knowledge. it is our responsibility, deadline and using our own resources, our students to become a community our duty, to enlighten our students. We including our Board of trustees, our faculty, My life has been devoted to helping young We embrace those priorities along with our if there is one forum where we can hope of scholars with extended learning were told years ago knowledge could not our staff, our alumni and our students, we people find their place in this world, just core values of service, excellence, integrity, to overcome our common cognitive opportunities. this is the logical way to be taken from us. Universities exist to pave successfully addressed some of the short as my role model who helped me. My justice, stewardship and a strong Christian limitations, it is a university. Where else master the key competencies necessary the way to tomorrow. We prepare young term issues with long term implications. decision to come to Virginia Union and heritage for if we lose our core values we but a university do intelligent people in a rapidly changing, increasingly inter- minds to be life-long learners. and we We therefore anticipate being fully re- back to richmond was reached in large lose our way. and by embracing these come together for the sheer love of dependent world. We want students who know that it is up to us to take our students affirmed by the southern association of part because i believe in Virginia Union’s exploring ideas and each other; where are problem-solvers within the context of Colleges and schools in December of this long honored pledge to provide access and else but a college can people from varying community and interrelationships. year which will put us in good stead for the opportunity. backgrounds and experiences, mix and next 10 years.

12 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 13 VUUCover Story vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture©

We also put strategies in place to of the university, expending over 4 million morning the creation of the Limitless realize that we must also be accountable, in this community employing over 300 faith is what has sustained Virginia Union effectively address our declining dollars over the past 18 months to do future fund. this quarter of a million dollar transparent and willing to take moderate full and part time employees from metro University for 145 years. We have come enrollment, resulting in a 16 percent so. We invite you to come and see for fund will assist students from the metro risks necessary to move the University richmond. our economic impact in the this far by faith, and faith is what will keep increase in our 2008-2009 undergraduate yourself. something good is happening at richmond area with resources to complete forward. this will allow us to grow richmond area is almost $90 million yearly. us for the next 145 years. it is what our enrollment and a 10 percent increase Virginia Union University. you never leave their college education at Virginia Union in excellence, reach and influence. our students last year logged nearly 4,000 founders believed, what they envisioned in our graduate enrollment. We were a beautiful portrait unfinished and that University. this will symbolically seal our Circumstances around us may change. hours of community service to richmond- when they etched our motto into the fortunate, through the generosity of our element is being added to our campus. relationship with the community and foster the city that we live in is changing. But, area organizations, agencies, schools and University seal – Dominus Providebit – god benefactors to provide every student with our steadfast commitment. our fundamental values that guide businesses. We have produced leaders will provide. in order to help insure the future, we a 3.0 or better with a scholarship totaling this University will not change. We are of education, all levels of government, are focusing intently on sound financial We are in the process of strengthening rooted in excellence, fortified by faith 1.4 million dollars. While many state respectful of the past, and we stand ready churches and business. our alumni management which is fundamental to our our academic programs, and offering and advanced by intellect, Virginia and private universities have cut staff to meet the future with a sense of courage, continue to provide irrefutable evidence of long term viability. as a private HBCU we new degree programs are being planned, Union University will fulfill the promise programs and scholarships, we were able determination and strong leadership. the success of their education from Virginia have not been afforded the privilege of a like the re-introduction of our fine arts our founders made 145 years ago; the to avoid that situation. Please remember that we have completed Union University. i am tempted to do a roll large endowment income, nor have we had degree, which will be presented to the promise that still serves as our beacon everything that we told you that we were call this morning, but i shall not. With the help of our Board of trustees, our the good fortune to annually receive major Board of trustees for approval in the and our guide to the students who going to do. alumni and friends of the University, we long-term gifts from benefactors. But, next few months. We will also critically We know that we are an enduring symbol enter our hallowed grounds in search of have made significant campus upgrades we are now seeing more of a willingness examine other possible academic offerings even though we are a regional University of what true effort, determination and opportunity. that is the promise that will to improve the quality of life for our to give. this giving reflects a vote of as we prepare our strategic plan for the and our students come from 23 states faith can create. We need all of you and never change – the promise of a limitless students and to enhance our facilities. We confidence in Virginia Union and that is a next 5 years. throughout the nation, our roots are still those you influence to help us along the future. May god bless us all. understand that the “look” of the campus key ingredient to the future success of the grounded in the city of richmond. We way. almost 50 years ago samuel DeWitt We realize that these changing times is reflective of our pride and belief in it. university. We are connecting with our are the oldest, continuously operating Proctor, the fifth President of Virginia require us to be flexible and agile as we We have made our campus more secure alumni, our friends, our corporate partners african american educational enterprise Union and one of our most well-known address the needs of this institution. We and greatly improved the physical image and churches to help build the endowment alumni, said upon being named President that will sustain the legacy of Virginia of north Carolina a&t state University, “We Union University. We also must continue can never become so involved in applied to manufacture creative ways of helping science that we forget applied faith.” our students finance their education. i am extremely proud to announce this

14 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 15 16-19 forgotten champion article - junot sth letic sched - men’s womens bball, trick & fiels, softball

VUUAthletics vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture©

a basketball game, a controversy and a student-athlete Who paid the Ultimate price

The Forgotten Champion its many Ciaa conference longest match in the history of Panthers had none. VUU played By JiM JUnot titles that season. the Ciaa, and won in one of the their home games either at shortest matches ever played.” the old Municipal recreational Virginia Union University Sports Information Director McDaniel is the last surviving Center or on the stage at the member of that team. McDaniel had a secret weapon, Mosque (now the Landmark the old man sits in the Belgian though. His clothing. theatre in richmond, Va.). Building on the Virginia “We were really good,” Union University campus, he said. “We won two “i was the only player to have a But Union had to pay for the alone in his eloquence. straight Ciaa titles and pair of long white tennis pants, transportation of the building should have won three.” the others had to play in shorts from new york to richmond, His cane rests to his right, his eyes in the cold,” he said, smiling. and the best way to do that peer out through round glasses this dynasty was built was to play an exhibition above a white moustache. during a time when in the championship basketball game against a VUU’s student population match, McDaniels downed well-known opponent. Modern-day student-athletes numbered around 300. eugene Harrington of shaw walk past the elderly gentleman, University 6-1, 3-6, 6-3. the most well-known hardly giving him a second glance, VUU’s coach and athletic professional basketball team unaware of the piece of living director, Henry Hucles, had i showed him the file i had at the time was the Harlem history they are passing by. built the basketball team accumulated on him. in globetrotters. the national into a powerhouse. one picture in the 1940 Basketball association once in a while, his eyes Ciaa Bulletin, McDaniel is didn’t exist yet, and the follow them, as if sizing up too powerful for a college standing in the back row next globetrotters were the World the athletes of 2010. team, some said. to another Union player. Professional Champions.

Vicious rumors and “He was my doubles partner, it would be like VUU playing whispers started about the and we were really close,” he the nBa champion Los i approach him. “excuse Panthers. some couldn’t said, tapping the photo. “He angeles Lakers today. believe that a small private got called up when World me, sir” i say, “aren’t university could field such a War ii broke out.” the game, since it was to be great team without the lure played against professional you roland mcDaniel?” of payment to the players. He grows silent. players, had to receive special permission from the globetrotters were already in the meantime, McDaniel “He’s passed on now,” he said. the aaU and the Ciaa. on the court, and there were a slight smile crosses the old man’s was playing tennis for Union, over 2,000 people packed in face. His eyes suddenly twinkle. and in 1940, he became the after the 1940 tennis the game was to be played the stands expecting a game. first and only VUU tennis player season, McDaniel returned at the Blues armory on sixth “yes, yes i am,” he answers. to playing basketball. to win the individual tennis street in richmond, Va. tickets if Union backed out now, not championship of the Ciaa. were 99 cents (equivalent for the next 30 minutes, the Panthers’ success on the only would they have to pay the to $15 in today’s money). trotters for their appearance, but he tells me his story. “We played tennis in the fall hardwood continued, with they would have to refund the back then,” he remembered. “We VUU winning 25 of 27 games. a sell-out crowd of 2,000 money to an angry crowd, and “i’m 89 years old, and i’m the only played the championships people packed the Blues the hopes of VUU having their Ciaa tennis champion ever to go at Lincoln University in But so did the rumors, mostly armory on March 7, 1941 as own basketball court would to Virginia Union,” he begins. Pennsylvania in november, among the other schools in the globetrotters and the most likely be gone forever. and it was really cold.” the Ciaa and the Ciaa office. Panthers took to the court. But there is more to the Hucles made the only story than that. McDaniel advanced to the things came to a head But behind the scenes, decision he could, to go championship after downing between VUU and the trouble was brewing. through with the game. Much more. his opponent from Johnson Ciaa on March 7, 1941. C. smith University 15-13, 6-0 although many people are familiar the Belgian Building wasn’t Less than an hour before the “We couldn’t cancel the game,” in the quarter-finals and then McDaniel said. “We just couldn’t.” with VUU’s basketball success in the upset the number-one seed, originally built on the Union last 30 years under the guidance of campus. it was built in new game, the Ciaa ruled that the Maurice “flip” Jackson from the game itself would go legendary coach Dave robbins, an , 2-6, 6-2, 7-5. york, n.y., for the 1939 World’s equal number are totally unaware fair. Union had been awarded Globetrotters were an “outlaw” down in VUU history as one of the most memorable ever that Union basketball was equally as the quarter-final match the building by the United successful more than 70 years ago. states government after nazi team, and that vuu faced played. the contest was is still the longest Ciaa tied eight times and wasn’t title match ever played. germany had invaded Belgium. the 1938-39 Panther squad was severe penalties if they went decided until the globetrotters’ Bernie Price hit a basket in known as “the Dream team,” “We didn’t have tie-breakers VUU planned on using the through with the game. and VUU had won the first of back then,” he said. “i played the building as a home basketball court, since at the time the CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

16 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 17 VUUAthletics vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture© A thletiC SCheDUleS CONTINUED frOm PAGE 17

also, the Panthers used into a corner, he accepted “they brought the building Wiley “soup” Campbell in the whatever sanctions the down on huge trucks on 2011 WOMEN’S S OFt BALL S CHEd ULE game because the team was conference chose to apply. route 1,” McDaniel said. decimated by the flu. again, Date OppOnent LOcatiOn time nothing was said at the time. By an 8-0 vote, the Ciaa voted the Panthers still play in the Sunday, February 27th Washington adventist University Home 12pm & 2pm to force Union to suspend all Belgian Building, now known Playing teams in another athletic activity for six months. as Barco-stevens Hall, to this Fri., mar. 4th & Sat. mar. 5th Virginia Beach Blast tournament away tBa conference was done all of the day, and they have won three time, even in 1940-41, but the today, it would be called national championships in Wednesday, march 9th elizabeth city State University Home 2pm & 4pm charges were, in fact, true. an across-the-board “death men’s basketball and one Fri.-mon., mar. 11th-14th ciaa Round Up tournament tBa penalty” for VUU athletics. in women’s basketball. the unsportsmanlike conduct Wednesday march 16th Rappahannock community college away 3pm & 5pm charge stemmed from the “Union’s athletes in three But for McDaniel, it was the Saturday, march 19th Slippery Rock University Home 2pm & 4pm fact that the officials had to sports: basketball, track and end of the road. He would be be escorted by security off tennis are not responsible,” a senior in the 1941-42 school tuesday, march 22nd Bowie University Home 2pm & 4pm the court during the VUU- wrote graves in the norfolk year, and he was prohibited 2010-11 WOMEN’S tRACK ANd FIELd SCHEd ULE Morgan state game held Journal & guide. from competing in the 1941 Friday, march 25th St. paul’s college away 2pm & 4pm in richmond. the size and Ciaa tennis Championships. Date OppOnent LOcatiOn time Sunday, march 27th Washington adventist University away 12pm & 2pm layout of the gym made sam Lacy, the legendary it necessary for officials sports writer, wrote in 1/22-23/11 University of maryland college park, mD tBa tuesday, march 29th chowan University Home 2pm & 4pm to be given an escort. a special column to the “i still think i could have afro-american newspaper 1/29/11 carolina classic chapel Hill, nc tBa tuesday, april 1st Virginia State University Home 2pm & 4pm this time, however, the Ciaa that the Ciaa was being won the championship 2/5/11 cnU Vince Brown invitational newport news, Va tBa monday, april 5th St. paul’s college Home 2pm & 4pm said the crowd was booing “inconsistent” in their rulings. and whistling at the referees. 2/11-12/11 ciaa indoor championship Hampton, Va tBa Saturday april 9th Lincoln University Home 2pm & 4pm “Union officials contend that again,” he said, ruefully. 2/18-19/11 Virginia tech “Last chance” Blacksburg, Va tBa tuesday, april 12th Virginia State University away 3pm & 5pm Booing a ref? shocking. if the Ciaa plans to enforce the final seconds to give the rules impartially, (then) “But i wasn’t allowed 3/11-12/11 ncaa Div. ii indoor natl. championship albuquerque, nm tBa thurs.-Sat., apr. 20th-23rd ciaa championship tBa the trotters a 40-38 win. Most fans and sports reporters something should be said agreed that five of the six about [Howard, Lincoln, Morgan to compete.” for Virginia Union’s athletic charges were bogus, and the state and Virginia state] playing program, and for McDaniel 2010-11 WOMEN’S BASKEt BALL SCHEd ULE 2010-11 MEN’S B ASKEt BALL S CHEd ULE true penalty was because the D.C. recs,” Lacy wrote. the result is an unfinished personally, the repercussions VUU defied the Ciaa by ending to McDaniel’s came swiftly and furiously. Date OppOnent LOcatiOn time Date OppOnent LOcatiOn time/ReSULt playing the globetrotters. the D.C. recs were the legacy. even though more recreational Collegiates, a on March 20, 1941, the Ciaa than seven decades have Jan. 20 at Fayetteville State University* Fayetteville, nc 5:30 p.m. 1/20/2011 *Fayetteville State Fayetteville, nc 7:30 p.m. “first of all, let’s not brand group of professional players met in a special session at passed since the controversial the Virginia Union basketball from the Washington, D.C. Jan. 24 at Saint paul’s college* Lawrenceville, Va 5:30 p.m. 1/24/2011 *Saint paul’s Lawrenceville, Va 7:30 p.m. Virginia state College (now basketball game, McDaniel players as ‘pros,’” wrote Lem area who were patterned University) in Petersburg, Va. still hasn’t gained admission Jan. 29 at chowan University* murfreesboro, nc 5:30 p.m. 1/31/2011 *Lincoln (pa.) Richmond, Va 7:30 p.m. graves, Jr., in the norfolk after the trotters, the new to either the Ciaa or VUU the Ciaa leveled six charges at Journal & guide. “they are not york renaissance and the athletic Halls of fame. Jan. 31 LincOLn UniVeRSitY* BaRcO-SteVenS HaLL 5:30 p.m. 2/3/2011 *Bowie State Richmond, Va 7:30 p.m. ‘professionals’ in any sense Washington Brewers. the Panthers: Playing a game FeB. 3 * BaRcO-SteVenS HaLL 5:30 p.m. 2/5/2011 elizabeth city State elizabeth city, nc 5:05 pm against Brooklyn College (the of the word. they are simply as McDaniel turns to leave, he as a result, VUU cancelled previous november) without a bunch of nice college kids peers out of the huge plate Feb. 5 at elizabeth city State University* elizabeth city, nc 1:00 p.m. 2/10/2011 *Saint paul’s Richmond, Va 7:30 p.m. its game against Howard, permission from the Ciaa; using who happen to be better-than- glass windows which adorn the but the Panthers played FeB. 10 Saint paUL’S cOLLeGe* BaRcO-SteVenS HaLL 5:30 p.m. 2/14/2011 *chowan Richmond, Va 7:30 p.m. an ineligible player against average basketball players.” Belgian Building. Without his VsU in a game classified as Brooklyn College; playing and his teammates’ sacrifice 70 Feb. 12 at Virginia State University* petersburg, Va 5:30 p.m. 2/16/2011 *Livingstone Salisbury, nc 7:30 p.m. During the special session, an exhibition the following teams in another conference years ago, the building might Clarence W. Davis, athletic week. VUU downed the trojans without Ciaa permission; using not stand where it does today. FeB. 14 cHOWan UniVeRSitY* BaRcO-SteVenS HaLL 5:30 p.m. 2/19/2011 *Lincoln (pa.) Lincoln University, pa 7:30 p.m. director of Howard University 56-24 in the Blues armory. an ineligible player against a and chairman of the Ciaa two more student-athletes of Feb. 16 at * Salisbury, nc 5:30 p.m. 2/21/2011 *Bowie State Bowie, mD 7:30 p.m. team in another conference; eligibility Committee, the game raised the necessary 2010 pass him as he leaves. one unsportsmanlike conduct FeB. 17 ViRGinia State UniVeRSitY* BaRcO-SteVenS HaLL 5:30 p.m. 2/23/2011 *elizabeth city State Richmond, Va 7:30 p.m. threatened to declare all funds to transport the holds the door for him as he in the Union-Morgan state of Union’s student-athletes Belgian Building from new slowly exits the building. Feb. 19 at Lincoln University* Lincoln University, pa 5:30 p.m. 2/28-3/5/2011 ciaa tournament charlotte, nc game; playing a professional professionals, making them york to richmond. on June team without aaU sanction. Feb. 21 at Bowie State University* Bowie, mD 5:30 p.m. * denotes a central intercollegiate athletic association contest unable to play intercollegiate 9, 1941, the cornerstone was He looks at the players laid on the corner of Brook and, just for a moment, a four of the six charges athletics ever again. FeB. 23 eLiZaBetH citY State UniVeRSitY* BaRcO-SteVenS HaLL 5:30 p.m. and Lombardy streets. smile appears again. stemmed from VUU’s game Hucles, as athletic director, Feb. 28-mar. 5 at ciaa tournament charlotte, nc tBa against Brooklyn College. the could not allow his student- VUU, on the other hand, was then, as the door closes, Panthers beat Brooklyn in athletes to lose their prohibited from defending he himself disappears. november, 1940, with nothing vUU needs yoUr CommiTmenT and sUPPorT. To make an ongoing differenCe in THe lives of oUr sTUdenTs, ConTaCT THe division scholarships, and backed its Ciaa basketball title. being said at the time. of insTiTUTional advanCemenT aT 804.342.3938 or Use THe enveloPe enClosed in THis issUe for yoUr ConvenienCe.

18 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 19 VUUFaculty & Staff vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture©

gerard Mcshepard comments with a laugh that students Virginia Union University has a diverse has grown up are looking forward to taking his around science all class. Mcshepard goes on to explain his life. His father earned a triple that he uses a lot of technology masters in Biology, Chemistry and which makes the learning fun and and well-learned faculty. they are leaders Mathematics and taught Biology for interactive. in fact, the new iPad 30 years in Brentwood, tennessee. is a regular feature in his lectures. His mother also earned a Bachelor “With all this technology – texting, in their disciplines, recipients of many of science in Biology and became cell phone, social media and the a teacher as well. Mcshepard has internet – i have to find ways to keep early childhood memories of his [learning] relevant,” he says. father bringing high school biology distinctions and awards and research He is so adamant about making experiments home and testing technology a permanent part of them out with him, his sister and his his lectures that he applied for a brother at the kitchen table. “i didn’t Mobile Learning grant and was savvy. In each issue of the Unionite, we realize it then, but we were doing awarded $3500 to use technology high school projects at the age of as an interactive learning tool in seven and eight years old. it just kind the classroom. “students don’t like of stuck with me,” he says. will highlight a few of our faculty members traditional learning, but when we Mcshepard says he always knew he incorporate technology it exposes would major in biology, and his love them to more. the more they are who are the heartbeat of the institution. for the subject comes to life in his exposed to the information, the more conversations about his time as an they learn.” assistant Professor of Biology in the since coming to VUU, Mcshepard has school of Mathematics, science and re-activated Beta Kappa Chi national technology Department of natural scientific Honor society and the & Physical sciences at Virginia national institute of science with the Union University (VUU). though support of Dr. Claude Perkins and he has only been at Union since the administration. “it gives students august 2009, he has already taken different goals and allows them to ownership of programs and activities take ownership of their learning,” says that he feels will engage his students Mcshepard. and make them young scholars.

Mcshepard considers each student typically, Mcshepard interacts with to be a young scholar and addresses freshmen on a daily basis. He teaches them in a way that promotes them to freshman biology for majors and think “i will act as if i am.” He also put non-majors and he is gearing up in in place other popular educational the spring to teach Microbiology, incentives such as seminars like which is usually not favored among the swagger of a science scholar… students. When asked about the difficulty students face in this particular class he seems upbeat and

20 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 21 VUUFaculty & Staff vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture© couldn’t imagine waking up one day and not coming to Virginia Union University…”

Margaret Duckworth, Professor of english, has been waking up and coming to Virginia Union University every day for the last 43 years. she is currently the longest tenured professor at the University with no plans to retire. “recently a student came to see me when i was juggling the idea to retire and said, ‘you can’t retire, you have to teach my children’”, laughs Duckworth. n the fourth grade ronald shelton had already made up in his mind that he was going to she admits that her coming to VUU may have been pre-ordained. “My pursue higher education and attend college, husband was teaching at the University of richmond and someone but becoming a professor was not what he had mentioned that Virginia Union was hiring…” after hearing the news, in mind. growing up in richmond’s Church Hill Duckworth applied for the position and was personally interviewed by community, shelton was one of five children. He was then President thomas Henderson. she recalls him telling a member of very good in math and science but had a passion the staff, “she’s what i’ve been praying to the Lord for…” for reading. With his parents both being college graduates, he knew that he too would travel that road. according to Duckworth, she began working at the university the next day and has not looked back. teaching is her passion. she believes “growing up in Church Hill, Virginia Union was that students attend colleges not only to gain knowledge in their considered the black Harvard”, says shelton. at a chosen career field but to become productive men and women when young age shelton was extremely impressed by the they leave. “College teaches you to do research, read and comprehend graduates of Virginia Union. “you would think VUU research and articulate research written and oral. it also introduces you was a big school.” as the John f. Kennedy High school to new ideas and concepts and helps you discover yourself and your senior prepared for graduation, he worked hard on own capabilities,” says Duckworth. completing his essays and applications to Virginia state University, University of Virginia, and norfolk active learning and student participation are the standards for state University. surprisingly, he did not apply to Duckworth’s classes. teaching students and developing their writing Virginia Union. “oddly enough i didn’t think i was abilities brings her tremendous joy. “i love to see my students grow good enough to attend Virginia Union.” Because of his in their writing talent. i love to introduce them to new ideas and profound knowledge in science and math, shelton stories.” one must be actively involved to successfully complete one considered majoring in engineering. of Duckworth’s courses. “students have to be involved in their own education.” over the years Duckworth has taught freshman composition, shelton decided to attend Virginia state University humanities, British literature, linguistics and drama. providing him the comfort of being only 30 minutes from home yet far enough away that relatives she received her undergraduate degree from springfield College and wouldn’t just make surprise appearances. graduating obtained her Master’s from with a Bachelor’s degree in history he shifted his University of Kentucky. career focus. a friend, who happened to be a librarian, she also performed some had spoken to him regarding his future endeavors graduate work at Purdue’s and mentioned the many possibilities of his history summer seminar and the degree. He also recognized shelton’s love of reading. University of richmond. enlightened by the conversation, shelton made the it is Virginia Union, however, which holds a special place in her heart. she decision to enroll in librarian school. He attended is proud of VUU. she believes the university has helped a lot of students the atlanta University, now known as Clark-atlanta realize their potential and sent them into the world to be productive University, in atlanta, georgia to pursue his Masters of and successful citizens. the students are what Duckworth enjoys most. science in Library science.

22 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 23 VUUFaculty & Staff vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture© ow do you approach a problem activities and providing guidance and you can’t see? While most people confidence to pursue summer programs. Faculty and Staff Updates shy away from the unknown While the MarC program is no longer Dr. Carleitta Paige gravitates Dr. Angela Chamblee, assistant Professor of english, recently published a book in existence, the programs that Paige entitled An Ancient African Wisdom Book: Commentary on the Instruction of toward it. the unknown is what drives participated in helped her focus her Ptahhotep. THE INSTRUCTION OF PTAHHOTEP is the oldest book found in the world. her research in biochemistry and what attention on biochemistry and how it is a book of proverbs, advice given from a very old man to a young man in line to become the Pharaoh. it gives advice about marriage, child-rearing, conflict ultimately helped her decide to be a first- research in that area benefits people in resolution, how to have good interpersonal relations with people, etc. year professor at her alma mater. their everyday lives. Dr. Sunita Sharma, associate Professor of teacher education and special education, Paige is no stranger to the legacy of as Paige navigates being a professor, presented a research based presentation at Virginia Council of exceptional Children which she is now a part. not only has motivator, tutor and anything else her (CeC) at theVa/CeC 2010 annual Conference at regent University at Virginia Beach on november 6, 2010. the presentation was entitled No Teacher Left Behind, she followed in the footsteps of many students require, she also tries to prepare “Preparing all Teachers for 21st Century Global Classroom. Virginia Union University (VUU) alumni them for the tough road ahead. With who started their career as students and many students turning their back on Dr. Phillip W. Archer, interim Dean of the school of Math, science and technology, in collaboration with a professor from VCU recently (18 oct 2010) received notice of a now serve as faculty, but she has also science because of the difficult course scientific manuscript accepted for publication in Maternal and Child Health Journal found through researching her family work they encounter, Paige offers her entitled Does Maternal Birth Outcome Differentially Influence the Occurrence of Infant history that she joins family members advice: “start acting today as if you are Death among and European Americans? that attended VUU when it was Hartshorn in the profession you want to be. this Dr. Carleita Page, ’03, assistant Professor of Biochemistry, recently co-authored an Memorial College and of course is difficult but your profession article published in the journal Biochemistry, as a result of an on-going collaboration Harper Valley, which merged its assets will be difficult too.” she does not allow with Wake forest University. the article is entitled “Characterization of the n-acetyl- with Union in 1964. “i wasn’t really sure if the challenge of the work ahead to deter alpha-D-glucosaminyl L-Malate synthase and Deacetylase functions for Bacillithiol i wanted to come back to teach at Union Biosynthesis in Bacillus anthracis.” in brief, the research findings presented in this the dreams of her students. instead, article describe biochemical pathways that are present in the bacterium that causes since i just recently graduated,” says Paige. Paige offers her support by meeting with anthrax disease. it is thought that the outcome of this research may lead to the “But after doing the research and finding students after their exams and helping development of new therapeutic treatments against this bacterium, as well as other disease-causing bacteria containing similar biochemical processes. out my strong family ties to Union, my them identify their learning styles. decision was made for me.” Vanessa Moody Coombs, associate Professor in the Department of Mass since transitioning from student to Communications, recently completed production of Virginia Union University: Paige’s decision to teach at VUU gives professor, Paige has become interested A Bridge to Intellectual Freedom & Equality, The Promise of a Limitless Future. the her students a glimpse at the promise in developing educational policies. she is 30-minute video presentation chronicles Virginia Union’s history from its founding in 1865 to present day. research assistance was provided by Dr. raymond P. Hylton, of a limitless future beyond the brick convinced that there should be a different professor of history, and Ms. selicia g. allen, university archivist. and mortar of Union’s walls. “i got a approach to teaching minorities science. lot of confidence while i was at VUU,” she also feels that research should be Dr. Adriane Leche, Director of institutional effectiveness and Compliance, was elected to serve on the board of the Virginia assessment group at their annual comments Paige. “i learned how to introduced much earlier in the curriculum conference held on nov. 15-17, 2010 in Lynchburg. the Virginia assessment group excel with the resources i had which to give students different options in the (Vag) promotes quality higher education through assessment and institutional allowed me to go on and do well in other field of biology. effectiveness practices in all Commonwealth, post-secondary institutions. Vag environments.” she credits faculty like serves as a network for communication and collaboration among institutions of anthony Madu, associate Professor in Paige sees the effects of a limited higher education, state and federal agencies, and accreditation bodies. the Department of natural sciences and introduction to science as students Dr. Mohammad Al Qudah, Mathematics Department, presented a talk at the former advisor over the Minority access enter Union as freshmen. they are Mathematical association of america, MD-DC-Va section, november 5-6, 2010 at Best Approximation and Lipschitz for research Career program (MarC), constantly trying to figure out the george Mason University. the title of the talk was “ Constant in Generalized Haar Spaces of Tensor Product Type of the Same Dimension”. unknowns of their future. they question for motivating her to get involved in in addition, Dr al Qudah is engaged in the aPeX Linear algebra Project. in this if they have what they need to be project, he is planning to prepare a linear algebra book that can be accessible to all successful. Paige, however, doesn’t students for free (almost free) of charge. need to do any research to answer that Dr. Shyamal Premaratne, assistant Professor in anatomy and Physiology, had her question for them. “of course,” she tells manuscript “AMELIORATION OF ISCHEMIA-REPERFUSION INJURY IN AN ISOLATED RABBIT them. “i am an example and i am here. LUNG MODEL USING OXANOH” accepted for publication in the Journal for Vascular My being [at Union] gives them hope.” and endovascular surgery.

24 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 25 26-27 why i give

VUU ALUMSGiving Back vuu – t he Promise of a LimitL ess f uture© Mary Lee DePiLLars ‘74 pearls shortly thereafter. and i have to a snowball’s chance of doing anything too many of the young people who acknowledge a special Big sister who wrong or attempting to get away with come here come from non-affluent taught me to sew my outfits for greek anything that was not acceptable. the backgrounds… many come with dreams, Week… she had already graduated and “village” was on alert. a little money, or none – encouraged by was teaching in the public school system. a preacher back home who believes in so, she worked every day, came home, fed Mrs. ruby Bryant knew i was avoiding the them, or a teacher at their high school her family, prepared for the next day at english essay exam, but she stayed on my who graduated from Virginia Union, or a school, then helped me learn a skill that i case until i took (and passed) it. Dr. ruth omeone recently asked me why i principal who believes it is a part of his still use… and so greatly appreciate. Harris whetted my interest in business and job to ensure that a promising student support Virginia Union University. the made sure i was aware of opportunities question stopped me in my tracks gets an opportunity! i give back because Both my high school sweetheart and i available that would serve me almost 50 years ago, i was that because, for me, supporting Virginia Union is entered Virginia Union as freshmen in well in the industry in which i a “no brainer.” i guess i feel so much a part of young person. i give back 1964. We married a year later… i dropped said i wanted to work. Coach because i truly believe that to the University that giving back is part of “my out of school… and two years later, we tom Harris tried to teach me normal.” along with my parents, Virginia Union whom much is given, much is welcomed our son. But the Vietnam War golf since “as many business expected. i give back because set me on a path that allows me to enjoy the life was raging and the military required [my decisions are made on the golf i am blessed to live now. of all those wonderful nurturers husband’s] service, taking him out of course as are made ‘downtown.’” who touched my life. i give school in his senior year. i was working on Much to his dismay, i never really forty some years ago, a city born and country back because for me it is the campus; the pay wasn’t much, but i was learned even though i did try raised kid was brought by the hand of her high right thing to do. happy. i felt protected and cared about. (for awhile)… but L.D. smith did school principal to Virginia Union and turned i was surrounded by my Union family. My succeed in teaching me (and over to the elders of the day. the principal and i know that giving back child grew up on and around the campus, several others who were brave simply said, “We got her through high school, is not limited to a few dollars and there was no shortage of babysitters enough to sign up for his class at now i want to get her through college. she’s here and there. it is also a when absolutely needed. his church) how to play bridge. smart but hard headed.” and so began my now well-placed word or two that 46-year history with my beloved alma Mater. will influence a decision that one day, after the richmond Public there are so many stories that warm my can ultimately benefit the University. it is school system began transporting heart as i revisit my life at Virginia Union. there’s a nurturing that takes place at Virginia a recommendation when the University youngsters all over the city in an attempt and so many wonderful people like Dr. Union… the development of a strong sense is in competition (formal or not) for a to achieve an integrated student Walter Bradley who hired me to work of family, and it crosses all lines…from fellow renowned lecturer, a grant, a program, body and more consistent learning part-time when i went back to school and students to professors to staff to administrators or whatever. it is challenging those who opportunities, the president of the local needed a job, and Mrs. Verdelle Bradley and trustees. there is a caring that encouraged are similarly situated, but who choose to alumni association who was also our who was quick to praise, slow to criticize me and made me want to succeed at whatever i discount the value of what they received family physician, saw my son walking and always encouraging. and Dr. frank chose to do after i left Virginia Union. at Virginia Union or those who choose to along overbrook road alone. He had gayles, who allowed me to take a heavier use decades-old grudges as excuses for i am blessed to have several “best” friends, but been let off the bus a few stops too load than was normally approved because their inactivity. it is redirecting resources the woman who is at the top of the list is one early! this blessed Unionite went to the i was out of time and out of money and to benefit the University, whether i met the first day i moved onto the campus. nearest phone (there were no cell phones had mapped a plan to graduate in 1974. i through estate planning or gifts given she was not my roommate, but we lived on the back then) and called me at my campus promised him i would not let him down, to honor a Unionite. same floor and something clicked with us that office. He told me what he believed had and i did not. there was nothing special has survived and flourished through the years. happened and that he had tried to get about my situation. so many alumni have it is finding and employing ways to i am an only child, but she was one of 13. Her my son to let him bring him (my son) to similar stories and experiences that guided ensure the health and future of this great family became my family, and when my own me, but of course we had taught him not them to and through successful careers. institution… an institution that gives far mother passed away a month ago, it was her to ride with anyone but his parents and more to the kid on the street, who has the so, when i am asked why i give back, i mother who had the “motherly” talk with me grandparents. (i had to revise that list smarts, but maybe not the wherewithal guess it is because i am an extension of the morning of my mother’s funeral. she offered to include the family physician!) so he to get a good college education and an VUU, so i am really only giving to myself… strong encouragement and unbridled love. watched my son continue his walk toward education on life itself, than the larger, home until i could catch up with him. i the city born kid from the country colder more impersonal institutions as a student, when an administrator learned was ever so grateful that he cared enough who came from a humble but proud can give. it is doing whatever one can, that i was interested in pledging a sorority (not to watch and protect until i arrived. background… from a hard working father in whatever way, to ensure that there her own, by the way) she stopped me on the and a stay-at-home-making-ends-meet- continues to be a Virginia Union, founded sidewalk and asked when i planned to pledge. i was blessed to spend ten years on the mother. i was only the second in my family 145 years ago to educate the children of i told her as soon as i had enough credits. she campus… from entering as a freshman to graduate from college… and i remember freed slaves in 1865. Why do i give back? told me i had already earned more than the in 1964 until finally graduating in 1974. how proud my parents were when i led the Because i believe it is the right thing to do. required amount and encouraged me to go During that time, there was no shortage Business school class into the auditorium at Virginia Union has given me far more than i ahead and pursue the pledge opportunity… of nurturers and encouragers. and the old Mosque, now called the richmond can ever give back! that week. i did and earned my twenty the flip side was that i did not stand Landmark theater.

26 Virginia Union UniV ersity Unionite Virginia Union UniV ersity winter 2011 27 VUU – The Promise of a LimiTLess fUTUre©

Dr. Gerard McShepard impacting lives is just one of the many juncture,” he said. He wants to continue reasons Duckworth has enjoyed such to make an impact on every student that virginia union university calendar of events ALUMNI UPDATES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 longevity at VUU. “you have to do passes his way and to instill in them the SPrINg 2011 Kachena Calbert Boyd, ’05 received her Masters of …which gives something to make your little corner of the same motto that his mother grounded Public Administration from devry university in 2008 world better,” she says with a smile, “i’ve within him; “Whatever you start you finish.” and currently works for the General students helpful EVENT DATE Services Administration as a Leasing Specialist. tips on time always known i wanted to teach. i was “i believe in giving back,” said shelton. Glen Cunningham, ‘84 recently opened the Oasis Laser management, and born to teach.” “Virginia Union helped mold me and i Classes Begin (Spring Semester) January 10, 2011 Skin center in Richmond, VA. www.theoasislaser.com interactive learning enjoy being a part of this place… which Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, ‘79 was unanimously communities Ronald A. Shelton is something great.” Founders’ Day February 4, 2011 elected chairman of Virginia union university’s called increasing Coburn Hall 11:00am Board of trustees on december 15, 2010. He also has CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23 become the chairman of a new organization called science swagger the conference of National Black churches. the in secondary after graduating University Career Fair March 24, 2011 leaders of the nation’s nine largest historically black from Clark atlanta, denominations have united to form the new organization. education that combine general Biology 10:00am-3:00pm the potentially powerful group’s goal: to fill “the void lectures with organic Chemistry. shelton decided Ms. essie armstead, ‘62 for a unified voice of faith advocating on behalf of to no longer reverend george Bell, Jr. African-Americans and other underserved populations Spring Concert April 10, 2011 on health, education, social justice and economic More than anything Mcshepard wants Mrs. thelma M. Booker, ‘50 pursue law school Coburn Hall TBA empowerment issues.” the new group represents more Mrs. Uvelia s. adkins Bowen, ‘45 Union students to be successful. He is but seminary. “i than 30 million people and 50,000 congregations. Mrs. sandra e. Burno-DeBerry, ‘72 known for saying, “your feet can not take asked god was He Mrs. teresa ann B. Calvin, ‘53 Panther Fest 2011 April 10-17, 2011 Dr. John W. Kinney, ‘72, dean of the Samuel dewitt you where your thoughts do not direct sure and He said Mr. Calvin a. Childs Proctor School of theology received the Jeffery B Spence Award for interfaith understanding you,” and he is making every effort to yes,” said shelton. Ms. athalyn Cook-young Mr. and Miss Virginia Union University Pageant April 12, 2011 Mr. ronald H. Fleming, ‘68 during the 48th Annual Humanitarian Awards. ensure they construct a solid future that in the pursuit to be obedient to the will of Mrs. Marthelia B. Hargrove, ‘63 will aid in their transition to become Honors’ Convocation April 21, 2011 Lois Brooks Johnson ’55 published her sixth god, he applied to Virginia Union’s samuel Ms. inez o. Henderson book, entitled “Behind the dark curtain.” productive members of society. DeWitt Proctor school of theology. shelton Mrs. alyce J. Hicks, ‘55 Coburn Hall 11:00am reverend robert B. Hooper, Jr., ‘49 Sarah E. Morris ’05 serves as the Assistant Principal was accepted and, while there, grew Mrs. Mamie L. Hughes, ‘45 Baccalaureate May 13, 2011 of Ratcliff elementary in Richmond, Virginia. Margaret Duckworth spiritually and graduated with his Master’s Dr. alexander Lincoln James, sr., ‘45 Coburn Hall 6:00pm Wendy Pace Lewis ’97 was promoted in Divinity in 1985. a few years later Mrs. Joan C. Johnson, ‘63 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 to partner at KPMG LLP. shelton began working at Virginia Union Ms. Lillian M. Jones, ‘46 Mr. Herbert H. Jones, ‘60 Commencement May 14, 2011 “Virginia Union University currently serving as the interim Dr. Morris W. Lee ‘58 celebrated his 50th Pastoral Mrs. Dorothy K. Joyner, ‘44 10:00am Anniversary at third Baptist church University students theological Librarian, enabling him to use Mrs. ella o. Lewis, ‘45 are warm, caring, both of his master’s degrees. Mr. Carvie M. Mason, Jr., ‘50 Panther Preview June 24, 25, 27, 2011 Kristie White, ‘98 received her Master’s degree in Business welcoming Mr. neal C. McCall, ‘76 Administration from Averett university december, 2010. and interested shelton says he enjoys interacting Mrs. Margaret W. Murphy Morris White III, ’03 received his Master’s degree in reverend Mary M. Murphy in learning.” with his students through research or education from Virginia tech december, 2010. Mrs. Christine a. Patterson, ‘49 Former students the freshman general studies class he Mrs. Claudine g. Penick-Jones, ‘68 Adam Taylor, ’09 is the Senior Political director of Duckworth teaches. “My biggest accomplishment is Mr. ronald C. Perkins, ‘72 at Sojourners. He is responsible for leading the Mr. ronald X. Peterson, ‘74 organization’s advocacy, coalition building, and remember the seeing them (students) walk across the constituency outreach. He formerly served as the Mrs. ernestine D. Phillips, ‘59 times in her class and credit her for much stage. i feel i had a little to do with them executive director of Global Justice, an organization Dr. Harry C. Press, ‘52 that educates and mobilizes students around global success both in their careers and lives. getting there.” some students may view Mr. sammie L. ragin, ‘72 human rights and economic justice. Before co-founding him as demanding, but he insists he is Mr. alfred r. rozier, ‘60 Global Justice, he worked as an Associate at the Harvard “Mrs. Duckworth is absolutely one of a kind. Mr. Kenneth W. saffold, ‘74 university carr center for Human Rights and as an urban always fair. “i push them because they Fellow in the department of Housing Preservation What i remember most about her is that she Mr. Jube B. shiver, sr., ‘54 have great potential.” Dr. James L. singleton, Jr. ‘67 and development in . He also serves took a genuine interest in her students. she as an Associate Minister at Shiloh Baptist church in Mrs. Carolyn a. randolph smith, ‘43 Looking back ronald shelton is proud of Washington, d.c. Adam graduated Magna cum Laude was warm and caring, but she demanded Mr. Martin a. strother, ‘77 with a Master’s in divinity from the Samuel Proctor School excellence, and you wanted to be excellent his accomplishments. He tries to instill Mr. irvin sugg of theology at Virginia union university in 2009. He received a Master’s in Public Policy from the JFK School of for her. she instilled in me a love for writing the love of continuous learning into his Mr. James H. taylor, Jr., ‘60 Ms. iris D. turner, ‘74 Government, Harvard university and cum Laude with a students both academically and personally. and a confidence that has stayed with me Mr. george s. Walker, Jr., ‘57 BA in international studies from emory university in 1998. throughout the years,” says shena Crittendon, “We need to look at higher education Mr. Charles L. Williams, ’40 ’92, now assistant to the President and in terms of where we are and where we VUU needs yoUr commitment and sUpport. to make an ongoing difference in the liVes of oUr stUdents, contact the Director of Public relations at VUU. want to go, because education is a critical diVision of institUtional adVancement at 804.342.3938 or Use the enVelope enclosed in this issUe for yoUr conVenience.

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