The Frontrunner

FALL 2016 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

The Frontrunner

The Newsletter of the Alumni, Students, and Friends of the Thomas F. Freeman Honors College

Honors Dean’s Welcome

graduate students on Activities Symposium time and with high showcasing 76 Honors Editorial: honors. Through stu- College students from dent engagement, we across disciplines. The Ms. Renuka S. Nair Editor can provide the best Honors College pro- education possible at vides these experiential Dr. Elizabeth Brown-Guillory TSU, namely provide learning experiences an Ivy League educa- specifically to trans- Fall 2016 will be re- Editorial Director tion at an urban, public form the lives of stu- Interim Dean membered among institution. At present, dents. To sustain this Honors College alumni, the college promotes an vision for the college, it students, and staff as a Inside this issue: Ivy League flavor to is imperative that the groundbreaking semes- attract high academic college makes fundrais- ter for fundraising in General Assembly profile students who ing a priority with 2 the Honors College. In are often recruited by goals. To meet our preparation for rolling Arts & Enrichment Series 3 prestigious universities. goals, we have em- out fundraising initia- Homecoming 2016 Our young scholars barked on a full-scale tives, we have been choose the Honors effort with a strategic Induction & Awards 4 getting to know our College precisely be- plan to build our schol- Honors alumni by in- University/School Partnerships 5 cause of the enrich- arship fund. We invite viting them to on- ments provided, such TSU alumni, especially Dress for Success campus and off-campus as this semester’s Civil graduates of Honors, events, meeting with Study Abroad in Japan 6 Rights Pilgrimage to corporate sponsors, them in clusters in their Georgia, Alabama, and and community and Fall Symposium 7 cities, communicating Louisiana, the Model church leaders to sup- through email, social Study Away Trip 8 United Nations trip to port some of the best media, and newsletter, Japan, the Lively Arts and brightest students DFW Mixer 9 about the many activi- Program, (where stu- at TSU. Over time, ties being hosted in Fashion Show/Silent Auction 10 dents attended the sym- these students will im- Honors. Alumni en- phony, the ballet, the prove our graduation Lecture Series 11 gagement goes hand-in- theatre, and live con- rate, will go out and do hand with student en- Spotlight 12 certs with Beyoncé and great things in the gagement. Because we Smokey Robinson), the world, and will happily Seafood Boil and Mixer 13 want Honors alumni to seafood boil mixer for support their beloved support our young HFF & HST Luncheon 14 Honors alumni and alma mater. scholars, we must com- current students, the Honors Giving Campaign municate effectively public lectures deliv- with them to demon- New to Honors 15 ered by outstanding strate that their invest- TSU faculty on an array Graduation Recognition 20 ment in students in the of stimulating topics, Honors College is and the Undergraduate worthwhile and will Research and Creative help the college to THE FRONTRUNNER Page 2

HONORS ORIENTATION AND GENERAL ASSEMBLY The Thomas F. Free- tour the Honors facility, acknowledged that in man Honors College including the popular order to remain in held its semi-annual student-friendly Hon- good standing, they Orientation and Gen- ors Lounge, the recent- must maintain a 3.25 eral Assembly on Sat- ly updated state-of-the GPA, be registered in urday, August 20, art computer lab, the and complete a mini- 2016, with a make-up technology-outfitted mum of 15 credit session on Tuesday, auditorium, and the hours per semester, August 23, 2016. On Honors staff’s suite of satisfy the Core En- Saturday, the incoming offices. hancements and CAPs Fall 2016 class enjoyed requirements, attend a After a sumptuous a hot breakfast while minimum of two lunch that included the Honors engaged them Honors-sponsored new recruits as well as in cohort-building ac- lectures/events per the returning students, tivities and the sharing semester, and partici- Honors held a general of personal stories of pate in at least one of assembly that incorpo- significant life events. the three Honors stu- rated both groups. The new Honors ca- dent organizations. This session focused on dre is comprised of 20 The continuing stu- reinforcing the core freshmen, 10 new con- dents also had an op- values of the Honors tinuing TSU students portunity to share College, which are and two new transfer their experiences with scholarship, character, students. Many hailing the freshman cohort service, and leadership, from the Houston and commit to serving as well as a reiteration area and other cities in as mentors to these of the expectations of Texas, and several new incoming stu- the scholars. Students from outside of Texas, dents. all 32 recruits are ex- ceptionally gifted, high - achieving students. The students also had the opportunity to Page 3 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

HONORS ARTS & ENRICHMENT SERIES In keeping with its mission Honors Scholars were in- formance of Madam Butterfly; to educate students broad- vited to put their names Smokey Robinson in concert ly and to expose them to into a ballot box to “win” at Jones Hall; Sassy Mamas at experiences outside of tickets to some of the The Ensemble Theatre; and their normal environments, most exciting events and a Violin Concerto by the Hou- this fall Honors took en- performances in Houston, ston Symphony Orchestra, richment to a new level including: a play, The led by Greek violin virtuoso with an “enriched” events Burnin’, a neo-spiritual a Leonidas Kavakos at Jones calendar that was packed capella musical; Beyoncé’s Hall. with an eclectic lineup of Formation Tour in Houston; concerts and shows rang- the Houston Ballet’s per- ing from ballet to Beyoncé!

HOMECOMING 2016: “REMEMBER THE TIMES!”

Homecoming festivities (Bradley Iwe, senior; Kier- ti Phelps (junior); Miss began in full swing starting ra Patton, senior), Mr. and Entertainment Record- at the beginning of the Miss Honors Sophomore ing & Industry Manage- week of October 17, 2016. (Dorian Fernandez, Anaya ment, Josie Deese TSU alumni, students, Valentine), and Mr. and (sophomore); and Miss family and friends came Miss Honors Freshman Delta Sigma Theta, together for a week-long (Jordan Davis, Vicki Ni- El’Lohna Jones (junior). celebration and the stress cole Taylor), Honors had The 2016 Homecoming of the midterms melted royalty all across campus: Parade, which began at away! On Wednesday, Oc- Mr. and Miss TSU Sopho- 10:00 a.m. on Saturday tober 19, the Thomas F. mores, Braxton Branick the 22, was a fitting fina- Freeman Honors College and Darlise Goodlow; le as this year the Home- Royal Court was presented Miss Professional Pharma- coming Parade returned at the Miss TSU Corona- cy, Abreah Ash (senior/ “home” to tion. In addition to Mr. P3); Miss Jesse H. Jones cont. p9. and Miss Honors College School of Business, Ashan- THE FRONTRUNNER Page 4

HONORS COLLEGE INDUCTION AND AWARDS CEREMONY 2015 On October 3, 2016, the The new 2016 inductees Pre-Pharmacy, 3.96 GPA; Honors College celebrated pledged to uphold all the Suzonne Goudeau, a soph- academic excellence at our Core Principles of Honors: omore majoring in Mathe- annual Induction and Scholarship, Character, matics, 3.95 GPA; and Awards Ceremony, held in Service, and Leadership. Temitope Gbaja, a senior the College of Education They pledged to be exam- majoring in Electrical and auditorium. The Honors ples of excellence in all Computer Engineering College proudly added 32 that they set out to do, and with a 3.92 GPA. The new outstanding students to exert their energies to Honors College also show- to its community of life- live up to all that is ex- cased 37 additional Contin- long learners. Students in- pected of an Honors Col- uing Scholars for their ex- ducted into Honors ranked lege Scholar. The returning ceptional achievements in among the top students Continuing Scholars re- scholarship and leadership. from their high schools. committed to upholding Following the Induction The freshman class entered the Honors College pledge and Awards Ceremony, the TSU with an average GPA of excellence. The top Honors College hosted a of 3.72, 1190 on the SAT Continuing Scholars are as reception for the scholars (Math & Critical Reading), follows: Vu Pham, a soph- and their families and and a 25 on the ACT. omore majoring in Biolo- thanked the parents for gy, 4.0 GPA; Omoikhefe This academic year, Hon- entrusting their best to Eboreime, a junior major- ors welcomed two transfer Honors, which promises to ing in Computer Science, and 10 continuing TSU nurture and keep them 3.97 GPA; Lorin Shirdon, students as new recruits. fully engaged intellectually, a sophomore majoring in academically, and socially. THE FRONTRUNNER Page 5

THE 3RD ANNUAL UNIVERSITY/SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP MEETING

Recruitment continues to schools, and over 50 of their versity/School Partner- play a very important role top students in attendance. ships; the Honors College in the development of the The partnership meeting application process; Hon- Honors College. On Tues- and luncheon provided the ors College curriculum; day, November 15, 2016, attendees an opportunity to academic scholarships, and Honors hosted its 3rd An- learn more about the Hon- Honors student life. The nual University/School ors College, and meet the Honors staff reviewed Partnership Meeting. In- Honors staff as well as some deadlines and Honors cri- vited guests included of our current scholars who teria (3.5 or higher GPA, a school counselors, advi- are members of the Honors 1270 or higher on the new sors, principals, and other College Ambassadors Asso- SAT (ERW+M), and a 26 high school administrators. ciation. The topics of dis- or higher on the ACT). This year Honors invited cussion included Honors At the high school personnel A Glance and what TSU’s to bring a few of their Honors Col- qualified high-achieving lege has to students to the luncheon. offer; Uni- This proved to be a great incentive for potential Honors College candi- dates. The event was a great success with 16 high school personnel repre- senting 14 Houston area

HONORS DRESS FOR SUCCESS INITIATIVE

On November 1, 2016, blouses, jewelry, shoes, etc. recruiting activities around Honors launched its Dress to the Dress for Success the city and across the for Success Initiative to Closet housed in Honors. state. provide professional attire Over 120 items of clothing for Honors Scholars when and apparel have been do- they go to job interviews nated to date. The Closet is or participate in intern- open to all TSU students, ships, or attend events that Honors and non Honors, require a professional because we hope to in- look. A campus-wide mes- crease our Continuing Stu- sage was sent to faculty dent outreach on campus. and staff to donate their Every student who bene- gently worn suits, dresses, fits from the Closet pledg- pants, dress shirts and es to help with Honors’ Page 6 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1 STUDY ABROAD IN JAPAN: THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS IN KOBE, HIROSHIMA, AND KYOTO Several Honors College jor), and Lorin Shirdon ples, and gardens) and Hi- Scholars traveled to Japan (sophomore, Pre-Pharmacy roshima (the city on which to participate in an interna- major). The Honors MUN the U.S. dropped the tional conference spon- team performed exception- Atomic Bomb in retaliation sored by the Model United ally well, staying up late for Japan’s bombing of Nations (MUN) on No- hours researching diplo- Pearl Harbor on December vember 19-27, 2016. What matic issues surrounding 7, 1941). The Honors is MUN? It is an academic the country assigned to Scholars observed first competition that enables them by the conference: hand that the Japanese students to learn about the Kenya. The Honors MUN people are incredibly polite, United Nations, diploma- received copies of program peaceful, patient, and eager cy, and international rela- booklets and a certificate, to accommodate. Our stu- tions, while teaching them both of which acknowl- dents also explored the city researching, public speak- edged participation by Tex- of Kobe, which rebounded ing, debating, critical think- as Southern University. from a major earthquake ing, writing, team-building, that occurred 21 years ago. Before the start of the con- and leadership skills. The The Honors College offers ference, participants were three young scholars who experiential learning that given guided daylong tours traveled to Japan included will be transformative for of two major cities in Ja- Omoikhefe Eboreime our young scholars, and the pan: Kyoto (the former (junior, Computer Science Japan trip is a fine example capital of Japan and the site major), Dorian Fernandez of such. of over 2,000 shrines, tem- (sophomore, Biology ma- THE FRONTRUNNER Page 7

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH AND CREATIVE ACTIVITIES SYMPOSIUM On November 29 and 30, Behavioral Sciences, and environment that fosters 2016, the Honors College two from the College of exchange of ideas and hosted its 4th semi-annual Education. knowledge. Undergraduate Research Celebrating academic Presentations ranged in and Creative Activities achievement, scholarly re- topics and content based Symposium, showcasing search, and artistic expres- upon the scholars’ chosen the research and creative sions, the symposium fields of study or their works (including stu- serves as a forum for jun- hobbies. Some played the dents playing the piano iors and seniors who are piano or sang and danced; and guitar, exhibiting required to present their some read poetry and per- paintings and sketches, research and creative formed spoken word. singing a cappella, etc.) of works that are completed Some presented papers 76 students from across in the course augmentation that they had spent count- disciplines: 29 from the proposals, while freshmen less hours researching, College of Science, Engi- and sophomores presented and others displayed their neering and Technology; projects from their core artistic abilities through 20 from the College of enhancements to their paintings and short films. Pharmacy and Health Sci- peers. The symposium Participants were given 3- ences; 14 from the Jesse H. provides a unique oppor- 5 minutes to present, and Jones School of Business; tunity for Honors Scholars, the presentations were six from the Barbara Jor- in their undergraduate captivating. dan-Mickey Leland School years, to present their work of Public Affairs; three to an audience, build a net- from the School of Com- work within the Honors munication; two from the community, and develop College of Liberal Arts and important soft skills in an Page 8 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

STUDY AWAY TRIP: HONORS CIVIL RIGHTS PILGRIMAGE On November 9, 2016, at ing the day and discussed Sunday 51 years ago. The 10:30 p.m., the Honors Dr. King’s book as part of next stop on the pilgrimage College staff along with 23 the study portion of the took the scholars to Mont- Honors College Scholars trip. gomery, Alabama, where boarded a Motor Coach they were taken down The first city on the itiner- and embarked on the col- memory lane at the Dexter ary was Atlanta, Georgia, lege’s first Civil Rights Pil- Avenue King Memorial where the scholars visited grimage and third Study Baptist Church, by the ef- Dr. King’s birth home, the Away/Recruitment trip. fervescent docent, Ms. Ebenezer Baptist church, Wanda Battle. The follow- Prior to visiting the histor- and the National Center ing morning, the Honors ic sites across three states for Civil and Human troupe visited the Dexter and two time zones, Hon- Rights. The group was also Parsonage Museum, where ors staff instructed stu- treated to a performance tour docent Dr. Shirley dents on the African- of Proof, a Pulitzer prize- Cherry took them back in American struggle for civil winning play at the South- time to Dr. King’s kitchen rights that led to the Civil west Arts Center. The fol- table and the moment Rights Act of 1964, and lowing morning, the schol- when he “bowed over the supplemented the experi- ars headed to Birmingham, kitchen table and prayed ence with a study packet Alabama, where they visit- aloud.” After this, the and essay assignment as a ed the Birmingham Civil scholars visited the Rosa way to help them think Rights Institute, Kelly In- Parks Library and Museum critically about the various gram Park, and the 16th where tour docent Mr. sites they were to visit. Street Baptist Church. Keith Worthington led From Birmingham, the The civil rights pilgrimage them on a journey along scholars were transported started before the actual the Jim Crow South time- to Selma, Alabama, where travel, with a mandatory line leading up to Ms. Rosa they experienced walking book reading of Why We Parks’ quiet but resound- across the historic Ed- Can’t Wait by Dr. Martin ing “no” when she was mund Pettus Bridge. Also Luther King, Jr. The book asked to give up her seat in Selma, the scholars visit- provided a canvas for the on the city bus, and her ed the Ancient Africa, En- emotionally-charged expe- subsequent arrest. slavement, and Civil War riences and impressions Next, the scholars Museum, where the docent made by visiting the sites visited the Civil and “Bloody Sunday” vet- and walking the hallowed Rights Memorial eran Ms. Annie Pearle grounds that some of the where they were Avery gave them a most prominent Civil led on the tour by firsthand account of the Rights activists had tread. docent Ms. Kayllin non-violent movement During the trip, each night Williams. that eventually led to the Honors staff and the Hon- Civil Rights Act. Ms. Avery ors Scholars reflected upon was the only marcher who cont. p19. the sites they had seen dur- was jailed on that fateful THE FRONTRUNNER Page 9

DALLAS/FORT WORTH HONORS ALUMNI-COUNSELOR MIXER

On Sunday, July that the Honors College the rapidly growing Hon- 10, 2016, the was able to bring alumni ors College at TSU. Honors College and counselors together in Both alumni and high hosted the Dal- areas other than Houston, school personnel pledged las/Fort Worth Texas, where the Honors to help build relation- area alumni and College has a cluster of ships with Honors with high school per- alumni. Invited guests the goal of increasing sonnel at a din- thanked the Honors staff recruitment and organiz- ner mixer in Dal- for an informative and ing events that will di- las, Texas. The enjoyable event. High rectly benefit students, event was well- school personnel were namely help them to attended by counselors, very impressed by the graduate from the Hon- high school administrators Honors alumni ors College on time and and other personnel repre- and indicated that they with high honors. To senting several school dis- are eager and excited continue the momentum, tricts in the Dallas/Fort about partnering with the Honors College re- Worth area, as well several Honors to help spread the cruited at 36 sites in Fall Dallas-based Honors alum- good news to their high- 2016. ni. This was the first time achieving students about the advantages of joining

HOMECOMING 2016 cont. the Third Ward communi- coming Court decorated ty. The crowds came out in the vehicles in TSU’s colors droves to welcome and and proudly displayed Hon- embrace our Tigers, cheer- ors Tigers’ pride. ing on all the participants while the Honors royalty gave out candy to the chil- dren along the parade. The Honors College entered a red convertible Ford Mus- tang and a silver Nissan Frontier truck in the parade: The Mustang transported Mr. and Miss Thomas F. Freeman Hon- ors College, and the truck carried the remainder of the Honors court. The Honors College staff along with the college Home- THE FRONTRUNNER Page 10

Runway Extraordinaire: A Fashion Show and Silent Auction Event On Sunday, October 9, Carter Richards; retired great food and music 2016, the Honors College HISD principal, Dr. Da- while helping toward a hosted its first fundraising vetta Daniels; business greater cause. Through its event: Runway Extraordi- owners, Ms. Cheryl debut fundraiser, Honors naire, a fashion show/silent Armitage and Mrs. Jenee was able to raise student auction to help raise money Pierre-Raven; HISD Trus- scholarships for the for scholarships for our tee, Ms. Wanda Adams; brightest and the best at deserving Honors Scholars. Honors Support Team TSU. TSU’s beloved and devoted members, Mr. Gregory alumna Mrs. Georgia Prov- Williams, Mr. Louis Ed- ost, of Provost & Associ- wards, Ms. Yvette Barker, ates, played a major role in and Ms. Diane Nicholson- recruiting distinguished Jones; Honors Faculty Fel- political, religious, and cor- lows, Professor Austin porate leaders to serve as James, Dr. Katherine models for the fashion Vukadin, Dr. Jesse Espar- show. The participant list za, and Dr. Monica Ras- featured several prominent mus; and Honors Scholars, members of the Houston A.J. Davis, Darlise Good- community, and many of low, Suzanne Goudeau, our very own members of Dorian Fernandez, Vincent the Honors Support Team, Fisher, Lizzy Omosebi, Efe Honors Faculty Fellows Eboreime, Aaron Dallas, and Honors Scholars. and Lorin Shirdon; and Amongst the models were Graduate Research Assis- Texas State Representative tant, Joselyn Guevara. For Ron Reynolds, Esq. and his the Silent Auction, over 20 wife Dr. Jonita Reynolds; local businesses in the Reverend Bishop Boulden; Houston area donated retired law-enforcement items and services to the officer, Mr. Rickey Spivey; Honors College. publisher of the Houston Models and guests enjoyed Forward Times, Ms. Karen Page 11 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

HONORS FALL FREDERICK DOUGLASS LECTURE SERIES The Honors College began equations using the well gravitational waves for the Music and Culture of its Fall 2016 Lecture Series known Laplace Transform. first time marks the begin- Mexico,” with music, on November 17. Invited Dr. Williams also used La- ning of a new era in the dance and plenty of audi- lecturers for this academic place to solve some inte- study of the cosmos. ence participation. Stu- semester included TSU gral equations and integral dents rose from their On November 28, Dr. professors Dr. Jahmario differential equations and seats to learn the “La Jesse Esparza, Assistant Williams, Dr. Daniel Vrin- defined how Laplace trans- Bamba” and thoroughly Professor of History in the ceanu, Dr. Jason Oby, Dr. forms to reduce a differen- enjoyed learning the mu- College of Liberal Arts and Jesse Esparza, and Dr. tial equation to an algebra sical history of Mexican Behavioral Sciences, pre- Uche Ndefo. All leaders in problem. culture. sented a lecture titled: their fields of study, each Dr. Daniel Vrinceanu, “The Discipline of History Dr. Uche Ndefo, Asso- delivered lectures that en- Associate Professor of and Historical Preserva- ciate Professor of Phar- couraged deep thought and Physics in the College of tion.” He spoke about the macy Practice in the Col- prompted engagement Science, Engineering and efforts to engage students lege of Pharmacy and with audience members. Technology presented a through digital history with Health Sciences, present- The first lecturer in the lecture titled “The Discov- an emphasis on primary ed the findings of a pro- Fredrick Douglass Lecture ery of Gravitational Waves sources and historical ject sponsored by the Series was Dr. Jahmario 100 Years after Einstein’s preservation. Agency for Healthcare Williams, Assistant Pro- Prediction.” He explained Research and Quality On November 30, at 10 fessor of Mathematics in the importance and signifi- (AHRQ) on Medication a.m., Dr. Jason Oby, Pro- the College of Science, En- cance of the recent discov- Therapy Management, fessor of Music and chair- gineering and Technology. ery of gravitational waves which was implemented person of the Department His presentation, “Solving by the LIGO collabora- by TSU in collaboration of Music in the College of Differential Equations Us- tion. One hundred years with Westat (a research Liberal Arts and Behavior- ing Laplace Transforms,” after Einstein's theoretical company) and Spring al Sciences, where he is involved solving initial val- prediction, the announce- Branch Health Centers (a also assistant dean, along ue problems in differential ment of direct detection of Federally Qualified with Ms. Joan Hubert, Health Center). presented “What Comes Around Goes Around- 1830-2016: African Slaves and their Impact on the THE FRONTRUNNER Page 12

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Honors Faculty Fellow: Prof. Austin Allen James Professor Austin James, fifth year at TSU. Earlier sions on career options instructor of English in the this fall, he served as one and entrepreneurial ven- College of Liberal Arts and of our models for the Run- tures, and often challenges Behavioral Sciences, is a way Extraordinaire fashion them to look ahead to new addition to the Hon- show and donated his art- where they see themselves ors Faculty Fellows. Prof. work for the silent auction after graduation. While James has published two portion of the fundraiser. helping Honors recruit books and is currently Prof. James’ enthusiasm high-achieving high school working on two more. He and energy is highly conta- students, he explains the is a poet and a gifted multi- gious. He enjoys engaging benefits of an honors edu- media artist. This academic his Honors Scholar cation and the many pro- year marks Prof. James’ mentees in lively discus- grams that TSU offers.

Honors Support Team: Ms. Eva Pickens Ms. Eva K. Pickens, professional experience in and special edition profiles. Associate Vice President the public and media rela- Ms. Pickens earned a bach- for University Advance- tions industry. She previ- elor’s degree in Journalism ment, is responsible for ously served as an award- from Southern University the image, branding, winning daily newspaper in three years and graduat- communications and reporter at the Opelousas ed summa cum laude. The marketing at Texas Daily World, a New York Honors College is fortu- Southern University. She Times subsidiary, where she nate to have Ms. Pickens is also the University earned several writing as a member of its Honors Spokesperson, having to awards for investigative Support Team, her credit 25 years of reporting, feature writing cont. p21. Honors Alumni: Dr. Willie Capers, II

Dr. Willie Capers, II, is macy degree from Texas Aurora Health Care, Mil- the Vice-Chair of Clinical Southern University in waukee, Wisconsin, in and Administrative Ser- 2001, a Master’s degree in 2002 and 2003, respective- vices and Assistant Profes- Business Administration ly. Previously, Dr. Capers sor of Pharmacy Admin- from Arkansas State Uni- was employed by Excel istration and Administra- versity, Jonesboro, Arkan- Healthcare Group, Inc., St. tion of Health Sciences in sas, in 2010, and complet- Bernard’s Healthcare, and the College of Pharmacy ed a PGY1 Pharmacy The Methodist Hospital and Health Sciences Practice Residency and System. (COPHS) at TSU. He re- a PGY2 Pharmacy Admin- cont. p21. ceived a Doctor of Phar- istration Residency with Page 13 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

IN THE SPOTLIGHT cont. Honors Scholar: Ms. Darlise Goodlow Darlise Goodlow, a sopho- tivities Association and in New Orleans, LA, Cor- more Marketing major maintaining a GPA of pus Christi, TX, and with a minor in Visual and 3.83. Ms. Goodlow is also Greensboro, NC. The Hon- Performing Arts at TSU, a gifted artist and a pas- ors College is proud to hon- has an overall GPA of sionate dancer. Her hard or such an outstanding 3.81. She is an active mem- work and dedication to scholar. ber of the TSU Yearbook academic success has Team, the TSU Dance earned her important hon- Company, and holds the ors thus far. She was invit- title of Miss Sophomore ed to portray Barbara Jor- 2016 at TSU. Hailing from dan during TSU’s Honors St. Louis, MO, Ms. Good- Day Convocation Ceremo- low graduated in the top ny, April 27, 2016, where 10% of her class from she received recognition McCluer North High for being on the Presi- School. Last academic year, dent’s List, the Dean’s List, as a member of the Hon- and the Honor Roll. Ms. ors Chautauqua Program, Goodlow has also traveled she researched and por- as an ambassador for the trayed the life of Congress- Honors Chautauqua Pro- woman Barbara Jordan, gram. Accompanied by her while also serving as the fellow team members, she president of the Honors impressed high school per- Research and Creative Ac- sonnel as well as students

LAGNIAPPE DAY: Honors Alumni & Students Seafood Boil and Mixer

On Friday October 21, the Honors College. Honors Support Team. 2016, amongst the many Generously co- Great food, music and ca- celebrations that took sponsored by the Office maraderie was enjoyed by place on campus during of the President, the all. Homecoming Week 2016, event was well- the Honors Seafood Boil attended by our alumni and Mixer brought Honors and students, along alumni and current schol- with several members ars together in an informal of the Honors Faculty setting under a tent outside Fellows as well as the THE FRONTRUNNER Page 14

HFF AND HST SEMESTER KICK-OFF LUNCHEON

On Friday, August 19, and Honors College. Our new- fessor in the College of Friday August 26, 2016, est HFF members include: Pharmacy and Health Sci- the Honors College hosted Dr. Jesus Jesse Esparza ences and the Director of a luncheon for the Honors (Assistant Professor of the Program in Health Faculty Fellows (HFF) and History in the College of Administration), Dr. Jah- the Honors Support Team Liberal Arts and Behavior- mario Williams (Assistant (HST). The meeting af- al Sciences), Dr. Erica Cas- Professor of Mathematics forded an opportunity for simere (Visiting Assistant in the College of Science, the Honors staff as well as Professor of Biology in the Engineering and Technol- the HFFs and HST mem- College of Science, Engi- ogy), and Dr. Uche Ndefo bers to get acquainted/re- neering and Technology), (Associate Professor of acquainted with one anoth- Professor Austin James Pharmacy Practice in the er and to discuss the vision (Visiting Instructor in the College of Pharmacy and and the goals of the Hon- Department of English), Health Sciences). ors College. This academic Dr. Daniel Vrinceanu cont. p22. year, prominent members (Associate Professor of of TSU’s brilliant faculty Physics in the College of and outstanding staff have Science, Engineering and joined/returned to the Technology), Dr. Monica L. Rasmus (Assistant Pro-

GIVING MADE EASY: HONORS ROLLS UP ITS SLEEVES TO RAISE FUNDS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS This fall, the Honors Col- tors Asa Sampson, Sr., and their beloved alma mater. lege made a full-scale ef- Asa Sampson, Jr., of TSU has given so much to fort with four initiatives to Hopewell (Temple) Mis- me; I am honored to help reach its fundraising goals sionary Baptist Church, raise scholarships for de- for the 2016-2017 academ- gave a donation to Dr. serving Honors College ic year. In October, the Elizabeth Brown-Guillory, Scholars,” noted Pastor college hosted the very interim dean of the college. Sampson Sr. who beamed successful Runway Extraor- Pastor Sampson, Sr. noted when he announced to the dinaire: Fashion Show and that this was the first time congregation that Dr. Silent Auction. Starting in TSU had ever asked his Thomas F. Freeman had July, the college began church for support. “This been his professor and reaching out to local is a brave and bold move mentor many years ago. churches for scholarship and one that will garner Another blessing in the donations. Two churches support because Texas form of a generous dona- graciously responded to Southern University has tion came to Honors in late the call in November. educated many members November, Two alumni of Texas of our congregation. They Southern University, Pas- will want to give back to cont. p23. THE FRONTRUNNER Page 15

SNAPSHOTS: NEW TO HONORS Ayowunmi (Ayo) Ad- from Pascagoula, Missis- is currently pursuing a ma- eleke is an international sippi, and as a first-time jor in Business Marketing student from Lagos, Nige- freshman at Texas South- and holds an overall GPA ria. He is a Mechanical En- ern University, she is ma- of 3.9. gineering major transfer- joring in Pre-Pharmacy. A Alusine "AJ" Davis, born ring from University of few of her academic in Louisiana, spent the last Texas-El Paso. Ayo has achievements include be- seven years of his life in taken part in the Mathe- ing in the top 10% of her Houston. He graduated matics Association’s Math graduating class, and being from Jack Yates High Challenge tournament one of four students select- School ranking number where he achieved three ed to her high school’s five in his class with a 3.98 gold awards, twice scoring Hall of Fame. GPA. At Jack Yates, AJ highest in his class. Enoch Culliver is a con- participated in baseball, Kelsey Akarue is a sopho- tinuing student at Texas basketball, football, stu- more and a continuing stu- Southern University. Hail- dent government, and the dent at Texas Southern ing from Omaha, Nebras- Math/Numismatic Club. A University. She hails from ka, Enoch graduated with first-time freshman at Tex- Houston, Texas, and grad- honors from Creighton as Southern University, AJ uated from Stephen F. Preparatory High School. is majoring in Engineering. Austin High School in He is a junior pursuing Jordan Davis, born in Sugar Land. Kelsey is cur- Sport Management. Hav- Plano, Texas, graduated rently a pre-pharmacy ma- ing achieved several aca- from Plano East Senior jor and plans to attend demic awards, maintaining High School with Honors pharmacy school and pur- his grades and being a stu- and a 3.9 GPA. Jordan was sue a career in pharmacy. dent athlete, Enoch is a member of his high Henry Alexander Bau- most proud of being a part school marching band, tista, born in Houston, of the Texas Southern Uni- concert band, and drum Texas, is a Salvadorian at versity baseball team. line where he received heart. He graduated from Aaron Fitzgerald Dallas, many area and regional Aldine Senior High School II, born in Cypress, Texas, competition awards. Jor- and is committed to be- hails from a family of TSU dan is majoring in Biology coming the first to gradu- alumni. He is a sophomore and aspires to become a ate from college in his and a continuing student at Pharmaceutical Scientist family, to be the first in his Texas Southern University, after earning a doctorate. family to graduate with who graduated from Lang- honors, and to maintain a ham Creek High School, GPA of 3.25 or higher. was a member of the foot- Henry is a first time fresh- ball, basketball and track man and is majoring in teams, and was selected to Administration of Justice. the National Society of Morgan Blalock hails High School Scholars. He cont. p16 Page 16 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

SNAPSHOTS: NEW TO HONORS cont. Vincent Fisher was born an outstanding math stu- lawn High School with an in Houston, Texas, and dent. As a first-time overall GPA of 3.62. Her was raised in Missouri City, freshman at Texas South- academic accomplishments Texas. He graduated from ern University, Giraude is were recognized by the Dawson High School earn- majoring in Business Ad- state and municipal school ing a silver medal on the ministration. boards for maintaining a 3.5 GPA or higher each National Spanish Exam. Deja Henderson is a year. Shantona is a first- As a first-time freshman at sophomore and a contin- time freshman and is ma- Texas Southern University, uing student at Texas joring in Biology/Pre- Vincent is majoring in Southern University. She Medicine. Electrical Engineering. hails from Houston, Tex- Marlene Garza is a junior as, where she graduated Kalifa Kelly is from Law- and a continuing student at from Bellaire High renceville, Georgia, where Texas Southern University School in 2015. Deja was she graduated from Collins where she is a Radio, Tele- a member of the choir Hill High School and com- vision and Film major with throughout her high pleted two years of college a minor in Spanish. Mar- school career while main- at the University of West lene aspires to pursue a taining a minimum 3.75 Georgia. Amongst her career in Communications GPA. She is currently many accolades she in- Administration, where she majoring in Accounting. cludes being the Vice president of the Alpha Lambda can develop and write for Jamalia Henry is a con- Delta Honors Society and an agency. tinuing student at Texas Ambassador for the Ad- Darrion Gray, born and Southern University. Al- vanced Academy of Geor- raised in Arlington, Texas, though born and raised in gia. Kalifa is majoring in graduated from Mansfield New Orleans, Louisiana, Chemistry/Pre-Medicine. Timberview High School. Jamalia’s family relocated He is a first-time freshman to Houston, Texas, due to Ngoc Dieu Thi Lam, majoring in Radio, Televi- Hurricane Katrina. She born in Vietnam and re- sion and Film. Darrion- graduated from Carl cently relocated to the plans to pursue his career Wunsche High School United States, graduated goal of becoming a sports with two diplomas, com- from Jane Long Academy broadcaster. pleting high school with a where she received both 3.8 GPA. Jamalia is cur- her high school diploma Giraude Griffin, born and rently a sophomore ma- and an Associate of Ap- raised in Houston, Texas, joring in Marketing at plied Science (AAS) de- graduated from Pasadena Texas Southern Universi- gree. As a first-time fresh- Memorial High School ty. man at Texas Southern where he received a certifi- University, Dieu is major- cate for perfect attendance Shantona Jackson hails ing in Pre-Pharmacy. and several academic from Baton Rouge, Loui- achievement awards, in- siana, where she graduat- cluding an award for being ed cum laude from Wood- cont. p17. THE FRONTRUNNER Page 17

SNAPSHOTS: NEW TO HONORS Tylar Larkins, born in She participated in a medi- Ogechukwu (Oge) Su- Frisco, Texas, graduated cal internship class during zanne Okafor, born in cum laude from Lone Star her senior year and was Fontana, California, gradu- High School. Tylar was an also a member of the Na- ated from Etiwanda High active participant with the tional Honor Society. Ash- School. Oge is a gifted pia- National Honor Society. lynn is a first-time fresh- nist and is a first-time As a first-time freshman at man majoring in Biology/ freshman at Texas South- Texas Southern University, Pre-Medicine and plans ern University, majoring in Tylar has chosen to major eventually to become a Pre-Pharmacy. in Biology/Pre-Medicine. Pediatric Oncologist. Olajumoke “Lizzie” Alexis Lowe, born in Holly Janay Mills, born Omosebi, born in Nigeria, Mountain Home, Idaho, in Dallas, Texas, graduated is a continuing student at on a military base and from the Kathlyn Joy Texas Southern University. raised in Grand Rapids, Gilliam Collegiate Acade- Lizzie is a sophomore ma- Michigan, graduated from my, while completing an joring in Aviation Science, City High Middle, an Inter- Associate of Science de- and aspires to become an national Baccalaureate gree from Cedar Valley airline pilot. She has suc- School. She is the mother College. Some of her aca- cessfully passed her Private of one year old Zayden. As demic achievements in- Pilot Written Exam quali- a first-time freshman at clude maintaining a 3.75 fying her to proceed with Texas Southern University, GPA in both high school the Instrument Pilot Rat- Alexis is majoring in Politi- and college, ranking num- ing ground class. cal Science and plans to ber 4 in her high school Kiya Reeves, born in Chi- pursue a career in law. class and making the Presi- cago, Illinois, graduated dent's List at Cedar Valley Divonte Lumpkin, born with high honors from three times in a row. Holly in the Southside of Chica- Lindblom Math and Sci- is majoring in Chemistry go, graduated from Harlan ence Academy. As a first- with a Pre-Medicine track. Community Academy time freshman at Texas ranking number three in Keyse Harun Musse, a Southern University, she is his class. He transferred to continuing student, was majoring in Health Studies. Texas Southern University born in Minneapolis, Min- Alexis Shavers, born in from the University of Ar- nesota, but moved to Ethi- Memphis, Tennessee, grad- kansas at Pine Bluff. opia to live with his Soma- uated from Germantown Divonte is currently major- lian relatives. He moved High School completing ing in Accounting. back to the U.S. when he the International Baccalau- was six, and has since lived Ashlynn McCall, born reate program in four years in Houston, TX. Keyse is a and raised in Las Vegas, while playing basketball sophomore at Texas Nevada, graduated with and maintaining a 4.0 Southern University, ma- high honors from the Pre- GPA. joring in Music Education. Medical Magnet Program He plans to become a pro- cont. p18. at Rancho High School. fessional music conductor. Page 18 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1 SNAPSHOTS: NEW TO HONORS cont.

Alexis is a first-time fresh- brat,” Anaya graduated man majoring in Biology magna cum laude from Sam- with a minor in Chemistry. uel Clemens High School in Schertz, Texas. She is a Kayla Smith, born in San- continuing student at Tex- ta Ana, California, graduat- as Southern University and ed from Mater Dei High. a sophomore majoring in Although recruited by Tex- Biology with a minor in as Southern to play soccer, Chemistry. Anaya plans to Kayla’s priority is her aca- pursue a career as a Foren- demic achievement. As the sic Biologist. daughter of an entrepre- neur, Kayla too aspires to Somone Winn, born in become a businesswoman Anchorage, Alaska, spent and is majoring in Business most of her academic years Administration with a mi- in Baytown, Texas. She is a nor in Business Law. continuing student at Tex- as Southern and a sopho- Torye Smith, born in more. Somone is a sopho- Beaumont, Texas, graduat- more and a Pre-Pharmacy ed magna cum laude from major at TSU. She is ac- West Brook Senior High tively involved in TSU’s School. As a first-time Pre-Health Professions freshman, she is majoring Club. in Biology and plans to pursue a career in medicine. Vicki Nicole Taylor, born in Houlka, Mississip- pi, currently lives in Lake Jackson, Texas, where she graduated from Brazoswood High School. Nicole is a first-time freshman and is currently majoring in English, with a Teaching Certification concentration. Anaya Nichelle Valen- tine was born in Ilesheim, Germany, and has since lived in various places. A self-proclaimed “military THE FRONTRUNNER Page 19

CIVIL RIGHTS PILGRIMAGE cont. At the Civil Rights Me- morning, the scholars em- can be seen through muse- morial, as the scholars barked upon a four-hour um exhibits, restored build- took the pledge to stand social justice tour of the ings, and hundreds of first- up against all discrimina- Crescent City with Mr. Sa- person slave narratives. tion and to speak up for kura Koné as their very The scholars gained a human rights, their knowledgeable and highly unique perspective on the names appeared on the entertaining tour guide. The lives of Louisiana's en- Wall of Tolerance. Next tour was truly an eye- slaved people. stop on the trip was the opener because Mr. Koné During their time in Atlan- Tremé Gumbo Festival revealed many truths about ta, Georgia, the Honors held in the famous Louis the real history of New Or- staff and Honors Scholars Armstrong Park in New leans, with interesting anec- visited the Frederick Orleans, Louisiana. The dotes and stark visualiza- Douglass High School to festival featured over 12 tion. The grand finale of recruit students. The Hon- different varieties of the tour and the civil rights ors Scholars represented gumbo, along with live pilgrimage was the visit to the Honors College and music and local artisans the famous Whitney Planta- TSU with poise and grace. selling their crafty wares. tion, the only plantation They spoke eloquently Scholars shopped for museum with a focus on about their experiences in trinkets and savored local slavery and reparations. Texas Southern’s Honors flavors. The following Here, America’s dark past College. Page 20 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

DECEMBER 2016 GRADUATION RECOGNITION CEREMONY On Friday December 9, kens of appreciation. 2016, at 6 p.m., the Thom- Please join us in con- as F. Freeman Honors gratulating our gradu- College proudly celebrated ates as they embark its three Fall 2016 gradu- upon the next chapter ates at an intimate gather- in their lives. ing that involved best wishes and teary farewells. Although the Graduation Recognition Ceremony, held at Pappas Seafood Restaurant, lasted about two hours, it was both sol- emn and heartwarming. Each graduate was honored with the special Hon- ors College stole as well as TSU memorabilia as to-

Profile of Fall 2016 Graduates

Imani Bass graduated Kierra Patton graduat- Donisha Sowell graduat- with a B.S. degree in ed with a B.S. degree in ed with a B.A. degree in Biology and a minor in Health Studies from the Entertainment Recording Chemistry. She is a Cal- College of Education. Industry Management and ifornia resident. Her Her overall GPA is 3.67. a minor in Business Ad- overall GPA is 3.62. Ms. Patton plans to con- ministration from the Imani plans to contin- tinue her training in School of Communication ue her education and health care and eventu- with an overall GPA of pursue a career as a ally pursue a career as a 3.68. Ms. Sowell plans to traveling Nurse Practi- Physical Therapist. continue her training tioner. through alternate teacher certification and pursue a career in elementary education THE FRONTRUNNER Page 21 IN THE SPOTLIGHT cont. Eva Pickens cont. which is comprised of the most accessible staff Ms. Pickens expertly di- goodwill ambassadors members at TSU, but she rects resources to assist us committed to “making moves with deliberate, with spreading the word things happen” for the col- highly professional, fo- about the many activities lege. They promote the cused energy to move the going on in the Honors ideals of the college by machine. She has worked College to supplement the generously giving of their collaboratively with the efforts of the traditional time, talents, and creative Honors College to raise colleges on campus. problem-solving skills. Ms. funds for scholarships. Pickens is not only one of Dr. Willie Capers, II cont. Dr. Capers is the type of deeply about their growth mentoring our Honors alumnus that any university and wellbeing. “We love Scholars, he also recently would be proud to call one Dr. Capers!” is a constant made a substantial dona- of theirs. Since earning his refrain from some of our tion to the Honors Col- doctorate at TSU, Dr. Ca- brightest COPHS stu- lege for scholarships. The pers has dedicated himself dents who make up about college celebrates Dr. Ca- to his alma mater. Stu- 25% of our total popula- pers’ dedication and com- dents in the Honors Col- tion in Honors. Not only mitment to the Honors lege praise him as an out- does Dr. Capers delight in College, and we consider standing teacher who cares him family.

Honors College Recruitment 2016-2017

Targeted Profile of theme and supporting de- Late Admission: June 1, Honors Recruits for tails) where they respond 2017 2017-2018 to the question, "Who Am For more information on I ?" (d) copies of their An ACT of at least 26 or Honors visit our website: SAT and/or ACT score an SAT (ERW+M) of at http://www.tsu.edu/academics/ reports, and (e) three let- least 1270, combined with colleges-and-schools/honors- ters of support – on the a minimum GPA of 3.5. college/ school's letterhead. Application Process Deadlines: High School All applicants must submit Seniors (a) a complete application, Early Admission: Decem- (b) copies of their tran- ber 1, 2016 scripts, (c) a 750 to 1000- Regular Admission: March word essay (approximately 1, 2017 3 to 4 pages, with a central THE FRONTRUNNER Page 22

KICK-OFF LUNCHEON cont. Our HST member list together to discuss the a request to local pastors reads like the “who’s who” Dean’s new plans for the to donate to Honors Col- at TSU! Our newest addi- Honors College and inno- lege scholarships, establish- tions include: Ms. Keisha vative ways to take Honors ing a fundraising board, L. David (Associate Vice to the next level. In a and a student driven fund- President/CHRO for Hu- round table setting, partici- raiser. man Resources & Payroll pants shared ideas about The ultimate aim of these Services), Mr. Louis W. the various ways they meetings was to bring all Edwards (Treasurer/ would contribute toward new and returning mem- Associate Vice President the college’s new fundrais- bers of the HFF and HST of Treasury and Budget), ing efforts and the steps up to speed and onboard Mr. Gregory Williams the member of the HFF with the rapid develop- (Executive Director of plan to take to participate ments at the Honors Col- Procurement Services), Ms. in and increase its recruit- lege. Yvette Barker (Director of ment efforts. Dr. Brown- Residential Life & Hous- Guillory announced several ing), and Mr. Timothy new fundraisers that the Rychlec (Executive Direc- college planned to roll out tor of Facilities). At both this academic year: a Fash- HFF and HST luncheons, ion Show/Silent Auction, faculty and staff joined Page 23 VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

GIVING MADE EASY cont. from Windsor Village The Honors College em- from a catalog to family United Methodist Church, barked upon a third major and friends over the holi- led by Reverend Kirbyjon fundraising initiative this days. For every 10 items H. Caldwell. Interim Dean semester, namely the estab- they sell, they are entitled Brown-Guillory worked lishing of a fundraising to choose a gift of their closely with Associate Pas- board, the Honors College choice from the catalog. tor Suzette Caldwell who Donor Relations Council. The student who sells the also serves as the Chair- Four supporters of TSU’s most items will win a spe- man of the Board of Di- Honors College have ac- cial prize. Proceeds from rectors for The Prayer In- cepted an invitation to sit the fundraiser will be split stitute, a non-profit com- on the council and have 60/40 between Maredy munity-based organization agreed to donate $5,000 Fundraising Company and that prays for the Houston each with commitments to the Honors College. The metropolitan area and raising additional funds. students are eager to help teaches people how to The college plans to host raise funds because they pray. Pastor Caldwell’s an installation of council understand that they will be enthusiasm and commit- members in spring. the beneficiaries of these ment is evident in her efforts. They are already To close out the semester, comment, “TSU is ex- looking forward to another the Honors College tremely important to the study away trip in spring! launched a student-driven Houston Community, and fundraiser. Honors Schol- we are blessed to have it as ars are set to sell items part of the fabric of the Greater Houston Area.” The Frontrunner PLEASE PLACE STAMP HERE

Texas Southern University Thomas F. Freeman Honors College 3100 Cleburne St. Houston, TX 77489 Phone: 713-313-7625 Fax: 713-313-6772 [email protected]