May 4, 2025

Welcome to our weekly Sunday newsletter. This week we will highlight the scholarly work from researchers at North Carolina State A&T and find out what Tyler Perry has created to support the next generation of filmmakers.

North Carolina A&T State University Students Uncover HBCU Roots in Civil Rights Activism

North Carolina A&T Newsroom

Undergraduate researchers from North Carolina A&T State University are reshaping how we understand the role of HBCUs in social justice history. Their research paper, “Somebody Dreamed, Somebody Worked, Somebody Prayed,” explores how political idealism at HBCUs laid the foundation for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and other key civil rights movements. The students recently presented their work at the Southern Political Science Association conference in Puerto Rico, earning attention for their fresh perspective and commitment to uncovering overlooked narratives.

Digging into oral histories, archived letters, interviews, and journal articles, the team found that HBCUs not only educated Black students—they prepared them to lead. They were guided by the concept of the “second curriculum,” coined by historian Dr. Jelani Favors, which frames HBCUs as institutions that taught students to use their intellect and voice for collective liberation. As undergraduate Jayden Seay noted, much of this history exists in places that traditional research ignores, making their work both restorative and revolutionary.

Holton emphasized that HBCUs have long served as the backbone of resistance, offering safe spaces for organizing when others didn’t exist. “People don’t give us the respect we deserve,” she said. “These institutions were the heart of the movement.” Their professor, Dr. Ayanna Armstrong, guided them through a political research methods course that emphasized real-world application—requiring students to submit their work to academic journals and conferences as part of their final exam.

Thanks to support from faculty members, the students traveled without financial burden and presented alongside other scholars. For them, this research is about more than grades—it’s about reclaiming a legacy. As Seay said, “Telling the stories of what we’ve been able to do helps move the university, and our people, forward.”

campus chronicles // hbcu edition

In April, Florida A&M University hosted over 100 Boys & Girls Club members for Shadow a Rattler Day, an immersive experience aimed at introducing high school students to college life as part of the three-day Florida Youth of the Year Competition. Participants attended classes with student mentors, toured FAMU’s historic campus, engaged with student organizations and learned about admissions, scholarships, and campus culture. The event was designed to spark a passion for higher education and help students envision themselves at FAMU or another HBCU. The day concluded with a special luncheon celebrating the achievements of the youth and announcing the 2025 Florida Youth of the Year, bringing together community leaders, university officials and Boys & Girls Club alumni to honor and support the next generation of leaders.

Xavier University of Louisiana has announced that rowing will become an official varsity co-ed sport in fall 2025, making it the first HBCU to establish a program of its kind. Originally launched as a club sport in partnership with the New Orleans Rowing Club in 2023, the initiative promotes access and equity in rowing, with leadership from Xavier professor Dr. Elizabeth Manley and NORC’s Chloé Jobin. The program has gained national support from prominent rowing figures, including Olympian David Banks and coach Arshay Cooper, and is set to elevate student-athletes onto the national stage while fostering community, inspiration, and opportunity.

black history in quotes 

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culture

Tyler Perry Studios has announced the launch of the Dream Collective, a new program aimed at developing the next generation of filmmakers, with a strong focus on underrepresented voices in the industry. Centered around the creation of a short film, the program offers participants direct access to industry professionals, hands-on training, and personalized support to help them build sustainable careers. Applications opened on April 17th and advisors include former Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences CEO Dawn Hudson and producer Nekisa Cooper.

Tyler Perry shared that the Dream Collective stems from his personal journey of breaking into the industry without connections, emphasizing the program’s goal of providing access and opportunity. Hudson noted the growing barriers in the film world, particularly for those lacking financial resources or industry ties, while Cooper highlighted the need for skill-building and mentorship to ensure diverse voices are heard and supported. Together, they aim to create a meaningful, community-driven initiative that empowers emerging storytellers to thrive.

Our editor, Lisa D. Tinsley, would like to thank you for spending part of your day with KISA News Radio.

See you next Sunday.

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