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Greetings Alumni, Faculty,
Students, Staff, and Friends of
Cheyney University,
We enter the 2013-2014 academic year optimistic that we will continue to weather one of the
worst economic depressions our country has experienced. Because of your support, we are also
moving forth with our enrollment management
changes and our plans for a successful reaffirmation of accreditation Self-Study and site visit
in April 2014.
Hundreds of students, and the University community, thank the CU Foundation, the “C” Club
and alumni for their scholarship funds that have
helped to bridge the gap between financial aid
and cost of attendance. These donations are
good investments in our future generation of
leaders. These contributions are helping to
transform the lives of these students and their
families.
This academic year, we welcome Dr. Phyllis
Worthy Dawkins as Provost and Vice President
of Academic Affairs. Dr. Dawkins joins our
community from Dillard University and Johnson C. Smith University. We look forward to
her leadership and the development of new academic degree programs. Moreover, we welcome
Dr. Cherita Weatherspoon as the new Director
of University College. The goal of University
College is to support the academic and social
development of students and augment their progression towards graduation.
As the new science building construction draws
to an end, we are pleased that we continue to
improve the look of our campus which will help
us attract talented and deserving students.
ABOVE:
CU’s new LEED-certified residence hall
opened for the fall 2012 semester boasts
well-appointed living suites, modern
meeting facilities, and casual areas.
COVER:
With Professors Toni Hall, Marietta
D’Antonio-Madsen, and Sebronette BarnesAborom looking on, music major Christian
Beard enjoys one of the Steinway grand
pianos
2 recently acquired (see page 14).
Thank you for what you do in supporting this
next generation of leaders.
Sincerely,
M ichelle R. Howard-Vital, Ph.D.
President, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
highlights
Spirit
Cheyney
•Letter to alumni from the president of the
Cheyney University National A lumni Association . . . . . . . . . . . 2
•Fanny Jackson Coppin: Pioneer of A frican-A merican Education . . . . 3
•CU’s A mazing A lumni: Where A re They Now? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
•At 101, A lumna stands ready to devote another year to service . . . 5
An Evening in Purple with Alice Walker
•The Pulitzer Prize-winning Author Challenges Us to
Pursue and Listen to our Authentic Selves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Commencement 2013
•Comcast Foundation Vice-President Lillie Praises and
R eminds CU Grads that learning must be ongoing . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Founder’s Day
•Bernice K ing Honors the Dedication of Coretta Scott-K ing and
R eminds That For Each Generation, Freedoms Must Be Won . . . . . 12
Cheyney
The
Cheyney
University
Magazine
is published for alumni,
donors, faculty, students and friends of
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania.
P ublisher
Michelle R. Howard-Vital
President
Executive Editor
Gwen Owens
Director of Public Relations
© Copyright 2013
M anaging Editor
Geri R. Vital
Design
Geri R. Vital, Philip Pagliaro
Web site: www.cheyney.edu
Phone: 1-800-CHEYNEY
1837 University Circle
Cheyney, PA 19319
PRIDE
•Cheyney University Joins the Elite Group
of A ll-Steinway I nstitutions . . . . . . . . . . . 14
•CU Welcomes New Provost and VP of Finance . 16
•Dean and Chief of Staff Plan for CU’s Future . 17
•UPS Partnership results in $50k Commitment . 18
•Comcast Foundation Supports CU
Living-Learning Communities . . . . . . . . . . 18
STAYING CONNECTED
•The honor Roll of Donors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
CU Athletics on the MOVE
•CU Honors Exemplary Scholar-Athletes . . . . 22
•Cheyney Scholar-Athletes lead by example . . 23
• 2013 Wade Wilson Classic a Classic Success . . 23
•Cheyney Wolves’ Basketball Schedule . . . . . 24
•Cheyney Wolves’ Football Schedule Inside Cover
Spirit
Cheyney
Greetings Fellow Alumni,
I have had the pleasure and
opportunity to meet and
interact with hundreds of
Cheyney alumni in recent
years. They often ask me
what they can do to help the
university. My response is:
get involved, join the alumni
association, write a check,
help us recruit good students, be supportive of the
students we have from your
area and keep us in prayer.
Albert Einstein said, “You
cannot solve problems using
the same level of consciousness that created them.” In other words, if you want to
experience something differently, you have to think, act
and conduct your business differently. We are facing
some challenging times. The challenges are daunting but
not insurmountable. But keep in mind they are not as
daunting as the ones our ancestors faced, and they made
a way out of no way despite the times.
Junious R. Stanton, ’69
We are better equipped than any graduates of Cheyney
before us to make a difference! We have the experience,
expertise, and wherewithal to reduce the deficit, increase
enrollment, help develop a curriculum for the twenty-first
alumni
century, create endowments, be a formidable presence
on campus and a powerful advocate for the university
around the nation.
If we are to assist Cheyney in its renaissance, we have to
think in different ways. We have to think in terms of getting really involved and being the driving force behind
the changes we envision for the university. Change is often frightening, confusing and unsettling, but it is a constant reality. We are either moving, or we are stagnating.
If we do not change, Cheyney will not change or grow.
It is evident to me that alumni can make a fundamental difference in the course of our university. Alumni
stepped up and raised hundreds of thousands of dollars
to keep deserving students from being put out of school.
Alumni raised one million dollars in three years. This
was a major milestone, and we can do it again. We can do
more–we just have to have a vision, an executable plan,
and alumni like you to help make it real.
I look forward to working with each of you as together
we create a new vision for Cheyney and make it real for
the world to see.
Sincerely,
Junious R. Stanton
Junious R. Stanton, ‘69
President,
Cheyney University National Alumni Association Board
The Cheyney Living Legacy Society
There are many ways to contribute to Cheyney University. You can always make a cash, check, or credit
card gift in support of annual funds and scholarship
programs. You can sponsor special events, or become
a volunteer. But are you aware there are more options?
Planned gifts offer you the flexibility of enjoying your
current income while making a substantial gift to the
University in the future. Here are a few of the most
common types of planned gifts:
• Wills or Trusts–In this more popular and easy way
to make a long-term gift to Cheyney University,
you include a gift in your will by:
1) Indicating a specific dollar amount or property
2) Giving a fixed percentage of your assets, or
3) Providing a gift to Cheyney University from
any funds that remain after providing for loved
ones.
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• Life Insurance–You can name Cheyney Univer-
sity as the beneficiary of a new or existing policy.
You can also donate a paid-up policy and designate
Cheyney University as the beneficiary.
• Charitable Remainder Trust–You can place funds
or valuable assets into a trust and receive payments
from Cheyney University for a specified period.
If you would like to discuss making a planned gift,
or if you already plan to include CU in your estate
plans, please contact Mr. Lawrence Green, Assistant Vice President of University Advancement and
Director of Sponsored Programs at (610) 399-2137 or
[email protected].
All planned giving donors will be recognized and
honored as members of Cheyney University’s Living
Legacy Society.
news
Fanny Jackson Coppin
Fanny Jackson was born into slavery in Washington,
D.C., in 1837. Coincidentally, this was the same year
that Richard Humphreys and the Religious Society of
Friends (Quakers) founded the Institute for Colored
Youth for higher learning in Philadelphia–the first of
its kind in the newly formed country called America.
After being purchased for $125 by her aunt, Sarah Orr
Clark, she completed a degree at Oberlin University
(the only college in the United States where colored
students were admitted.) Soon afterwards, in 1865, she
came to Philadelphia to teach at the Institute for Colored Youth. She stated how delighted she was to teach
“my own people and see them master Caesar, Virgil,
Cicero, Horace...” In 1869, when the principal of the
Institute, the distinguished statesman and ambassador,
Ebenezer D. Bassett was asked by President Ulysses
S. Grant to assume the position of Minister of Haiti,
Fanny found herself serving as the leader of the ladies
school, and Octavius Catto led the men’s school. Before the Institute, it seemed that the only place a person
of color could learn
a trade was in the
penitentiary. Compared to Catto’s
often aggressive
demeanor, Coppin’s steady, calm
dedication made
her a more reliable choice for the
next principal of
the Institute.
Even though Fanny
Jackson Coppin is
relatively unknown by
most Americans, her service as a teacher, instructional
design expert, administrator, fundraiser and advocate
for classical and industrial arts education propelled
the Institute into a position of prominence in Philadelphia and early America. Reading her Reminiscences, it is obvious that Fanny Jackson Coppin produced seminal work in teacher education, advocacy,
and human rights that, though significant, has been
unrecognized and under-appreciated.
In the inscription to her Reminiscences, Coppin
states, “This book is inscribed to my Aunt Sarah Orr
Clark, who, working at six dollars a month, saved
one hundred and twenty-five dollars, and bought
my freedom.” Some of quotes from her book include, “Slavery made us poor, it’s gloomy, malicious
shadow tends to keep us so,” and “Yet, in the dignity
of moderation, we should strive to make known to all
men the justice of our claims to the same employment
as other men under the same conditions.”
Fanny Jackson Coppin served in this role for 36 years
before joining her husband, Bishop Coppin, as a missionary in South Africa. Fanny Jackson Coppin died
in 1913 at age 76. Her autobiography which gives
much insight into 19th Century Philadelphia was
published after her death. Thus, one of the best accounts of the life of Fanny Jackson Coppin was written in her autobiographical Reminiscences of School
Life, and Hints of Teaching, published in 1913 after
her death. Coppin State University in Maryland still
bears her name.
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Spirit
Cheyney
CU’s Amazing Alumni:
alumni
staying connected
Where Are They N ow?
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Bernadette Johnson-Hairl
completed her MBA at the
Keller Graduate School of
Management and works
as a certified QuickBooks training specialist
and a part-time adjunct
Accounting professor.
One of her most notable
accomplishments includes
leading the restructuring of a county government’s accounts payable
department that resulted
in averting a potential 8.5
million dollar loss. While
at Cheyney, she played on
the Women’s Basketball
Team, was a peer tutor
and resident advisor.
Robert L. Turner, Jr., J.D.
‘69, a native of Pittsburgh, He earned his law
degree from Duquesne
University School of Law.
He currently serves as
Executive Director of the
Virginia State University Foundation. He is a
member of the State Bar
of Texas and the Virginia
State Bar.
Sue Primeau, full time
artist, exhibitor, and watercolor instructor at the
Florida Watercolor Society and Ocala Art Group,
graduated from CU with a
BS in Industrial Technology, and earned an MBA in
Human Resources at the
University of St. Thomas,
St. Paul, MN. Owner of
Teaming Pond, Inc.
(teamingpondinc.com),
Sue refers to her art as
abstract reality. She is
passionate about the
world in which we live
and the beauty that surrounds our everyday life.
It is this readily available
subject where she finds
her inspiration. Yasir N. Roundtree ’10
has been accepted into
the Ed.D. program in
Educational Leadership at
Delaware State University
in Dover, DE. A certified
teacher and administrator, Roundtree earned
his degree in Elementary
Education at Cheyney and
went on to earn a M. Ed.
in Educational Leadership, with honors, from
American College of
Education in Indianapolis,
IN, as well as a Master of
Science in Reading, with
high honors, from Lincoln
University in Oxford,
PA. Roundtree says that
he plans to do his dissertation research on the
impact of communities
of practice on employee
job satisfaction, student
achievement, and teacher
performance.
Dr. Dorothy Hurley, serves
as Director of the M. Ed.
in Multicultural Education programs and adjunct
assistant professor of
management at Bridgeport University. She
earned her B.A. from CU,
an M.Ed. from Antioch
University, and her Ed.D.
from Temple University.
Brittany Fox ‘08, Keystone
Honors Academy, Business Administration;
Completed her Master’s
in International Affairs
at Columbia University,
and is currently working towards a Ph.D. in
Sociology at Columbia
University. A first-generation college graduate, she
attained an exceptional
educational portfolio
while at CU, including
international experiences in West Africa and
England, publication in a
scholarly journal, and participation in the Maryland
Leadership Institute at the
University of Maryland
where she studied graduate-level coursework in
public policy.
Fogwe Fomunyan, ’07 is
a candidate for M.D. at
Pennsylvania State University, Hershey School
of Medicine. As a chemistry/biology major at CU,
Fomunyam was actively
involved in research and
scholarship in his area,
and has participated in
national conferences in
his field. While a student,
Fomunaym was a member
of the Keystone Honors
Academy, Alpha Kappa
Mu Honors Society, and
worked on original research with faculty in the
areas of both analytical
chemistry and nanofabrication. He developed
essential technical skills
in his area and earned
Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology
Certification through
the Pennsylvania State
University Engineering
Program.
Luke Smith, ’08, Completed
his J.D. at Pennsylvania
State University Dickenson School of Law, was
admitted into the PA Bar
Association, and now
practices antitrust law as
a litigator in a Jenkintown, PA law firm, Faruqi
& Faruqi, LLP.
Rodney Robbins ’08, Completed his J.D. at Indiana
University School of
Law. While at Indiana, he
was elected President of
the Midwest Black Law
Student Association, Vice
Chair of the Student Bar
Association, and served
as a certified legal intern
at the Monroe County
Prosecutor’s Office.
Dominique Williams ’10,
now works as senior
statistician for Eli Lilly &
Company in Indianapolis, IN. After completing
her Bachelors degree in
Mathematics from CU,
She received her Masters
of Science Degree in
applied statistics at West
Chester University. In addition to being a respected
statistician in the pharmaceutical industry, she
volunteers with Habitat
for Humanity and Special
Olympics. Her areas of
expertise are GIS spatial
analysis, survival data,
longitudinal data analysis
and categorical analysis.
Brittney Lay ’07 (Summa
Cum Laude), returned to
school and completed her
MBA in finance at the
University of Pittsburgh
Katz Graduate School of
Business & College of
Business Administration
where she now works
with the PNC Financial Services Group and
serves as an industry consultant to prepare UPitt
students for the CBA and
CPA Exams.
Darryl English ’91, is Senior Technical Recruiter
at Direct Communications Solutions in Dallas,
Texas. He currently
specializes in the electronics & manufacturing
segment of the automotive
industry, finding the right
person for hundreds of
positions over the years.
James Lee ’00, is a partner of the law firm of
Brooker, Richardson,
Dickerson, Lee, and Associates. Although Lee
was born in Chicago, he
has lived in many states,
with Pennsylvania being
one of them. At Cheyney
University, he receiving
his BA in criminal justice
and furthered his education by earning a masters
in the administration of
justice at Wilmington
College in Delaware.
Subsequently, Lee went
to Thomas Cooley Law
School and earned his
Doctor of Jurisprudence
in 2009. Lee is licensed to
practice law in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and
has also been admitted
into the PA and NJ
Federal Bar.
We want to hear from you!
Please send information to be included in an upcoming
issue of the Cheyney University Magazine to:
Office of Alumni Relations
Cheyney University, 1837 University Circle
P. O. Box 200, Cheyney, PA 19319-0200
news
At 101, Alumna stands ready to devote
another year to service
Although Cherry applied for a teaching job in the Upper
Merion School District upon graduation, her first teaching job was in the Sharon Hill School District because
Upper Merion wouldn’t accept her. The Fair Employment Practices Commission and the NAACP went to bat
for her demanding equal opportunity and, according to
her, that is how she wound up teaching in Upper Merion
as its first African American teacher.
“I wanted to help kids learn how to be better in the
world,” she says. Always upbeat and positive, Cherry
went on to have a very successful and rewarding career, teaching for 18 years at Candlebrook Elementary
School in Upper Merion Township under Principal Shirley Fine and Critic Teacher Carol Aaron, both of whom
told the superintendent of schools that Cherry was the
best teacher in the building.
At 101 years young, Vivien Vance Cherry is Cheyney
University’s oldest living alumnus. The long-time Ardmore, PA native with a magnetic personality came from a
big family—she was born the fourth of 15 children.
“I feel very fortunate to have reached this stage of the
game,” the centenarian admits. After graduating from
Lower Merion High School in 1929, she enrolled in West
Chester State Teacher’s College (now West Chester University) to pursue a teaching degree.
Unfortunately, she had to drop out after a year because of
the Great Depression. “No one could afford college back
then,” she recalls, especially an African-American family with so many children. She pursued a number of jobs,
eventually settling in as a federal clerk.
Cherry retired from teaching in 1977. She has spent her
time since doing civic duties in her community, attending Bethel AME Church in Ardmore where she was
honored as Woman of the Year, cooking, knitting and
enjoying her family and friends.
On November 8th of this year, Cherry will celebrate
her 102nd birthday with her two surviving siblings—
her 87 year old sister, with whom she lives, and her
“baby” brother–who is 80.
Cherry encouraged her nephew, Jim Vance ‘64, to attend Cheyney, and was thrilled when her niece, Sheilah Vance, was appointed Chief of Staff and Deputy to
the President. Both Jim and Sheilah have established a
scholarship fund in her honor.
At her 100th birthday celebration last year, family and friends honored the
always effervescent Vivien Vance Cherry for her role in changing attitudes and
lives in her work as a mother, teacher, and community volunteer.
Then, in 1956, at the age of 42, the wife and mother of
two decided to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a
teacher. Instead of resuming her education at West Chester, she decided to apply at Cheyney.
“I thought it would be a better environment since I was going back to school at my age,” Cherry explains. “I called
the Admissions Office and asked if they would accept
someone as old as me.” Cheyney accepted all of her credits and Cherry spent the next four years commuting from
the Main Line to complete her degree. “It was the best
thing that could have happened to me,” Cherry insists.
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Cheyney University Keystone Honor Academy enjoy a
A uthor A lice
April 26, 2013 was an unforgettable fundraiser for the
Keystone Honors Academy (KHA), featuring Dr. Alice
Walker, the internationally acclaimed author, poet and
activist. She spoke before a packed house in Cheyney
University’s Marian Anderson Music Center. Her books
include: seven novels, four collections of short stories,
four children’s books, and volumes of essays and poetry.
Walker is best known for her most successful and critically acclaimed 1983 novel, The Color Purple, which won
her the Pulitzer Prize; making her the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in Fiction. That same
year, she also won the National Book Award.
beaten black and blue by my critics for my work on The
Color Purple.” She endured 10 long years of being vilified by reviewers who didn’t like her book and assumed
it was all about male bashing. Walker was amazed that
not one critic realized, since her novel begins with the
words “Dear God,” that The Color Purple, is a theological work that examines the religious and the spiritual.
Dr. Tara Kent, Dean of the Keystone Honors Academy,
said Cheyney students can certainly relate to and understand the themes of history and culture in Dr. Walker’s
work. “Yet, I think that what truly captivates us about
Dr. Walker’s historical fiction, is that her stories give us
opportunities to go beyond tradition, and the constrained
Dr. Walker shared for more than an hour in her easy, soft roles and expectations of taken-for-granted assumptions
spoken voice. Walker told the crowd, “Figuratively, I was about gender and race. We are all deeply empowered
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an
evening in purple with
Walker
As Dr. Kent looks on with pride, KHA Alumna Jennifer Gomez, JD, speaks
about the support and encouragement she received at Cheyney University.
Christopher Stewart, a junior in the Keystone Honors Academy,
who majors in Biology, speaks about his experiences in the KHA.
by these messages of transcendence in her books. We all
need to know our history, yet there is great growth opportunity when we are challenged to think beyond ‘what is’
to help us imagine what else is possible.”
During her lecture, Walker suggested that we get our assignments from our ancestors. Part of her assignment,
which was given to her by her grandfathers, was to go
to school, learn to read and write, and take on the job of
helping herself and others to understand how we grow and
change. Moreover, The Color Purple is, in fact, about the
ultimate ancestor, God–a topic Walker confessed she had
spent the better part of her adult life trying to avoid, only
to realize that she is a worshiper of nature. She said, “your
spiritually has to be authentic, otherwise, it is not yours;
you have to make a choice, so it is yours.”
Surrounded by CU faculty, sponsors, and admirers, Dr. Walker enjoys
meeting supporters of the KHA at a special reception in Carnegie Hall.
As the evening drew to a close, Walker dispensed words
of wisdom to the audience and advised them to rise
above the negative feedback that surrounds them with
education, to never give up their personal power and to
grab hold of it.
The fundraiser was underwritten by The Cheyney Foundation, PK Financial Group, and Wawa, plus a number
of other sponsors including CFI, J. Savoy & Son, Westtown School, Kendal Crosslands, and many individuals
such as Dr. Lynn Green and family. All proceeds support KHA scholarships and educational programs at
Cheyney University.
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Cheyney University of Pennsylvania celebrates
Commencement
T
he gray clouds from earlier in the morning
seemed to part magically as graduates, friends,
and families gathered to celebrate their impressive
accomplishments on Saturday, May 18th, when
President Michelle Howard-Vital presented the
Cheyney University Class of 2013 at the commencement ceremony in the Historic Quadrangle of campus. Vice President of Community Investment of
Comcast Corporation and President of the Comcast
Foundation, Ms. Charisse R. Lillie, delivered the
commencement address to the new graduates and
was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree.
In her remarks, Ms. Lillie reminded the students,
8
“In this tough economy,
you have made a decision to change. You are
entering a world that is changing. Education and
training will be ongoing for you.”
Ann Marie Frasier, a political science major from
Philadelphia, addressed her fellow students as
Valedictorian of the Class of 2013. Frazier served
as Junior Class President and Residence Advisor,
among other things. During elections she helped
students register to vote and organized educational
conferences and rallies to advocate for State fund-
2013
The atmosphere is
always bittersweet as Cheyney
President Howard-Vital bids farewell
to another class of world-changing scholars.
Valedictorian Ann Marie Frasier (center left) echoes
the sentiment, but reminds graduates of the need for them to
give back to enable future generations of Cheyney graduates. Ms. Charisse
Lillie (center right), a vice president of the Comcast Foundation and recipient of an
honorary doctor of laws degree, was commencement speaker for the festive occasion.
ing of CU’s Keystone
Honors Academy.
Frasier is a member of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National
Political Science Honor Society, which is the only
honor society for college and university students of
government in the United States. She was on the
Dean’s List throughout her tenure at Cheyney
University and was recently listed in Who’s Who
Among Students in American Colleges and Universities. For two years, Frasier served as the President
of the Cheyney University Chapter of the NAACP
and helped organize two regional NAACP conferences on education. She has accepted a position with
CIGNA, and, in the spring, plans to pursue a masters
degree in public health and, eventually, a doctorate
in Sociology.
Her remarks expressed her allegiance to Cheyney
University. “If I leave you with nothing else today,
remember that we are Cheyney University and, as
such, it is our duty to be zealous alumni who are not
only financially supportive but also actively engaged
in our Alma Mater in every way.”
Altogether, 167 bachelor’s degrees and 16 master’s
degrees were presented at the ceremony. Mr. Walter Naegle, of New York City, accepted the honorary
(continued on following page)
9
Doctor of Humane Letters awarded posthumously Cheyney Community. Rustin also helped to orgato civil rights activist and former Cheyney Univer- nize the Southern Christian Leadership Conference
to strengthen King’s leadership; Rustin promoted
sity student Bayard T. Rustin.
Rustin was a close advisor to Dr. Martin Luther the philosophy of nonviolence and the practice of
King, Jr. and the leading strategist of the Civil nonviolent resistance, which he had observed while
Rights movement from 1955 to 1968. He was also working with Mohatma Gandhi in India.
the chief organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, the 50th anniversary
of which was celebrated this year in Washington,
D.C. with participation by many members of the
10
Chairman Robert Bogle brought greetings to graduates on behalf of the Cheyney University Council of
Trustees and Council members. Also in attendance
were trustees Lynette Brown-Sow, Robert Trayn-
ham, II, Joseph Wells and Larry Skinner. Sheriff
Joseph McGinn represented the PASSHE (Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education) Board of
Governors.
Following the awarding of degrees, Cheyney University National Alumni Association President Junious
Stanton inducted the new graduates into the National
Alumni Association and charged students with the
responsibility to keep connected to their alma mater
and represent it well, no matter where they go.
Shelly Weeks-Channel, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Education and Leadership Studies, received the Lindback Distinguished Teacher
Award. The program also included a memorial tribute and presentation of an honorary diploma to Tiffany Sheppard, a Cheyney University student who
passed away in her sophomore year. A group of students from Pennypacker Middle School was in the
audience, along with hundreds of students, family
members and University supporters.
11
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania celebrates
F ounder’s Day
The Cheyney University Concert Choir performing “Lift Ev’ry Voice.”
Ms. Toni Sharp, a descendant of Founder Richard Humphreys, brings
greetings from the Humphreys Distribution Committee and Friends.
Faculty, staff, students, alumni, administrators, and
friends came together for a powerful and inspirational
176th Founder’s Day Celebration on March 1, in Marian
Anderson Music Center. Cheyney University’s Concert
Band, under the direction of Professor Allen Gardner, set
the mood with music, while CU’s Concert Choir, under
the direction of Professor Marques L. A. Garrett, gave extraordinary chorale performances to mark the occasion.
Miss Cheyney 2012-13, Janelle McKelvey and CU’s first
Mister Cheyney, William Walker, served as Mistress and
Master of Ceremonies.
A dramatic point in the program came when Associate Professor of Theater Jann Ellis-Scruggs spoke passionately about her mentor, friend and spiritual advisor,
Edythe Scott-Bagley, sister of the late Coretta Scott King.
12
Ms. Bagley founded Cheyney University’s Theater degree
program and The Cheyney Players student troupe. Her
husband, Arthur Bagley, also taught at CU.
In Edythe Bagley’s honor, Professor Scruggs, along with
current and former students, performed a very moving
skit about Octavius Catto, a well-known educator who
graduated from the Institute of Colored Youth, the precursor to Cheyney University. Catto became a martyr to
racism in 1871 when he was shot and killed in electionday violence in Philadelphia to prevent him from voting.
Bernice A. King, youngest daughter of Coretta Scott-King
and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., gave the keynote address.
Ms. King talked about the struggle for freedom, the nonviolent civil rights movement and her mother, Coretta, the
woman who walked beside the man who had the dream.
2013
“We need more special women,” King said, “who understand their calling and their purpose.” Her mother, King
insisted, helped ensure that her father stayed in the race. “She was his greatest advisor. She was prepared to stand
beside him and to carry on without him.” In fact, King
said, in 1983, 20 years after the first March on Washington, “she kept his legacy of non-violence alive, and legislation came out of that.”
Today, King said, “It feels like the clock is being turned
back on us in many respects” because of disparities in
wealth, education, and the criminal justice system.
It just goes to show, King said, that her mother was
right when she said, “Struggling is a never-ending problem. Freedom is never really won. You earn it and win it
in every generation.”
King’s impassioned plea came at the very end. “Don’t
leave without making significant contributions to the
freedom struggle,” she begged. “Remember the woman
who walked beside him (MLK, Jr.). She had an extraordinary legacy.” Following King’s speech, The Clarence Schock Foundation was presented with the 2013 Excellence in Foundation Strategic Giving Award. The Foundation, a stalwart
supporter of CU scholarships, provided an additional
$250,000 to CU to create an endowed scholarship.
UPS, also a supporter of our students by giving $50,000
to name the conference room in the new residence hall,
the UPS Conference Room, received the 2013 Excellence
in Corporate Philanthropy Award.
13
With the addition of Steinway pianos,
Cheyney University becomes a prestigious
All -S teinway S chool
(From left, standing): Professors Toni Hall, Marietta D’Antonio-Madsen
(chair), and Dr. Sebronette Barnes-Aborom of the Fine Arts, Design, and
Liberal Studies Department join Christian Beard (seated), a thriving music
major at one of the university’s new Steinway grand pianos.
P
ractice never ceases . . .
This is the credo of music and piano professor Toni
Hall, and they have become words to live by for Christian
Beard, a junior at Cheyney University majoring in music
and piano performance. His passion is music and his career
goal is to be a music educator. “I want to teach children
who have the desire to learn music, but do not have the
resources to pursue a music education,” says Beard. “Once
I met Professor Hall, I knew this was the place I wanted to
graduate from, and Cheyney is the place for opportunities.
All of the professors in the music department make me feel
comfortable—it’s a family-oriented learning environment.
This is my home away from home.”
14
C
heyney University officially became an All-Steinway School this fall, joining more than 160 other schools
in the world with the same illustrious distinction. “All-Steinway schools demonstrate a clear commitment
to excellence by providing their students and faculties with the best equipment possible for the study of music,” says Sally Coveleskie, who is the National Director of Institutional Sales at Steinway & Sons in New York City,
From the practice room to the performance hall, every piano at All-Steinway schools are designed by Steinway &
Sons. Surveys show that Steinway pianos are the exclusive choice of 97% of all pianists performing with orchestras around the world, as well as 1,600 musicians who are designated Steinway Artists.
Cheyney University professors who utilize the Steinway pianos on campus are thrilled. “This ensures that students
and faculty have the appropriate quality instruments needed for the department,” states Director of Choral Activities Marques L. A. Garrett. “This way, we are able to more fully prepare students for the plethora of performances
we have each year. As a student, they have excellent pianos that they can use for study. As faculty, we have worldclass pianos that we can use to improve in our craft and careers.”
On stage at Marian Anderson Music Center: Professor Toni Hall
(background) and student Christian Beard (foreground) practice on
two world-class Steinway grand pianos, part of Cheyney University’s
All-Steinway collection of magnificent concert pianos.
Industry experts
say that just having
Practice,
the status of being an
Practice,
Practice.All-Steinway School
—a universal symbol
of excellence—will
enhance Cheyney
University’s music
program for the next
30 to 40 years.
Since 1853, Steinway pianos have set an uncompromising standard for sound and beauty. The rich, unrivaled
tone and touch of a Steinway piano inspires students to realize their artistic talents. In addition, it prepares
them well to compete at the highest level in the professional world.
The All-Steinway School designation for Cheyney has been a few years in the making. Inventory of the
pianos around campus began before Marian Anderson Music Center’s renovation was complete and sparked
much excitement in the Fine Arts Department.
“We knew the Marian Anderson Theatre was being renovated as a performing arts center and we would need pianos for
the practice studios and for the 500-seat auditorium. The timing seemed perfect,” recalls Professor Marietta D’AntonioMadsen, Chair of CU’s Fine Arts, Design, and Liberal Studies Department, “but there was a lot of groundwork to do.”
In order to earn the elite designation, CU needed to add a Steinway Model D concert grand piano to its collection, which was done in fall, 2012. It now graces the stage of the Marian Anderson Music Center where it is
used for master classes by University students, faculty pianists, and guest performers.
Professor D’Antonio-Madsen asserts, “Often the first request a guest musician asks is if there’s a Steinway concert grand,
and we feel the addition of this concert grand signifies that the University has made a commitment to excellence.”
15
Pride
Cheyney
new to
Dr. Phyllis Worthy Dawkins became
Cheyney University’s new Provost,
Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor on August
5, 2013, replacing Interim Acting Provost Dr. M. Bernadette
Carter, who took over after
Dr. Ivan Banks left the post in
2012.
Dr. Dawkins previously
served as Provost, Senior
Vice President for Academic
Affairs and Professor of Education/Psychology at Dillard
University. Before Dillard, she
served as Chief Academic/Administrative Officer/Dean of the College
of Professional Studies, Interim Vice
President for Academic Affairs, Chair and Professor of Physical Education at Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), her undergraduate alma mater.
Dawkins received her Doctorate of Philosophy from
The Ohio State University, her Master of Arts from
The University of Michigan, and her Bachelor of Arts
degree from Johnson C. Smith University. She also received leadership certificates from Harvard University,
Hampton University, and UNCF. She and husband Dr.
Bobby G. Dawkins, have two adult daughters (Malia
Bobbi Dawkins and Demi Worthy Dawkins).
Dr. Dawkins hit the ground running from day one.
She’s been meeting with Faculty and Staff and working to ensure the University’s successful reaffirmation
of accreditation with the Middle States Commission on
Higher Education (MSCHE). “Accreditation is a team
effort. I enjoy working with faculty, administrators,
and staff in coordinating this important process.”
Dr. Dawkins has been involved in strategic planning
at the cabinet, college, and department levels for more
than 25 years, with emphasis on academic program improvement and development, instructional technology,
faculty development, high impact practices including
Learning Communities, design and implementation of
institutional and program assessment systems, policy
revision and development, managing enrollment and
improving retention, and fiscal development through
grant-writing and oversight of grant management. She
16
has proposed and received grants at both JCSU and Dillard from private and federal sources totaling more than
28 million dollars.
Al Skudzinskas became Cheyney University’s Vice
President for Finance and Administration at the end of
2012. He comes to Cheyney with more than 30 years
of experience working in education, government and
manufacturing sectors. Skudzinskas has a strong background in multi-location management, operations, administration, accounting, re-engineering and continuous improvement strategies.
“In the last several months we’ve completed a restructuring process for key administrative positions that
have been vacant for some years,” he explains. “The IT
(Information Technology) Director job has been filled.
Facilities has been restructured by reducing executive
management to get more bang for the buck, provide
more front-line supervision and more workers, and get
better use of the limited resources given us. We have a
new Bursar. We are making more strategic decisions,
working smarter, restructuring our work to provide
better service for our students. We have maintained or
improved the level of student services for our students
even though we have fewer resources because we’ve restructured how we do things in departments. Our goal
is to use more 21st century-style management, utilizing more teamwork within and across departments with
more metrics-driven management and process improvement throughout the University.”
The Vice President’s previous jobs helped prepare him
for his role at CU. Skudzinskas was Executive Director of Business Affairs at Harrisburg Community College’s York
Campus. He oversaw operations in
IT, Business Management, Fiscal,
Purchasing, Accounting, Capital/Operating Budgets, Facilities and Campus Police. In fact,
he developed the 10-year strategic plan and the build out of the
new campus in York, PA.
Prior to that, Skudzinskas was
in Director positions in Fiscal
Operations and Business Operations with the Baltimore County
and Baltimore City government.
the Quad
The VP has a BA in Economics from University
of Maryland Baltimore County, a Masters
in Administrative Science from The
Johns Hopkins University Carey
Business School and a Post - Masters in Accounting from Loyola
College. He is currently working on his Ph.D. in Education
Leadership at Notre Dame of
Maryland University. Skudzinskas has 13 years teaching experience in Economics,
Project Management, Software
Development Life Cycle, and
Business Operations. He also
teaches Project Management and
Systems Development for Towson
University Graduate School.
Dr. Donna Parker became Dean of Faculty & Academic Programs at CU in August 2012 after working as Associate Vice President for Academic
Affairs/Institutional Effectiveness at Harcum College.
She spent the bulk of her educational career at Rutgers
University as Assistant Dean of Students for nearly 20
years. She also worked as Associate Dean of Liberal
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at Burlington
County College, and as Academic Advisor at the Pennsylvania State University’s Abington campus.
Dr. Parker believes that Cheyney’s Center City location
holds a key to growth for the institution, not only because of its location, but because of the flexibility in
terms of program offerings, including continuing education and other revenue building opportunities. In addition, Dr. Parker acknowledges that online teaching
must weigh heavily in the equation if the university is
to be viable in the future. CU has a new Coordinator of
Instructional Design and Innovation, Dr. Beverly Funkhouser, who is organizing the drive.
As a pastor’s wife, Parker has done mission work in
Asia. Her unique combination of experiences, skills,
strong sense of ethics, and commitment to families
and youth, combine to make her a caring, effective and
strong leader. “Cheyney has struggles and detractors
but at the end of the day, Cheyney gets it done and gets
it done well. We aren’t going anywhere, and we’re going
to get better.”
Sheilah D. Vance, Esquire became Chief of Staff and
Deputy to the President at Cheyney University in July
2012. The former Press Secretary to former Pennsylvania Governor Robert P. Casey likes a challenge and
eagerly bought into President Howard-Vital’s vision of
growth and excellence for Cheyney. “I felt that working at CU would best allow me to use all of the skills
that I have developed over the years in higher education
administration, law, policy development, politics, and
fundraising,” Vance remarked.
Vance oversees all operations of CU’s Office of the President, provides advice and counsel to Dr. Howard-Vital,
and assists her on all major initiatives. Strengthening
Cheyney’s relationships with constituents, she serves
as liaison with professional staff including the trustees,
the President’s Cabinet, township officials, legislators,
city and state public officials, and community leaders to
enhance University relationships and partnerships.
“I hope to move the University forward in every way,
with a major focus on assuring that the University has
a successful re-accreditation visit by the Middle States
Commission on Higher Education,” Vance asserts. “I
also hope to increase individual, corporate, foundation,
and grant resources that can be devoted to scholarships
and academic program improvement,” as well as internationalize the campus “by strengthening ties with
universities and governments in other countries, particularly Rwanda and other countries in Africa.” Vance
knows Rwanda well. Her daughter, Hope Lewis,
spent time there volunteering as an English Teacher in the Peace Corp. Her
son, Vance Lewis, a former Teach
for America Corps member, still
teaches in Philadelphia.
Vance is a member of numerous
civic and professional organizations, including the Board of
Directors of Teach for America, Greater Philadelphia Region, and the Penn Towne
Chapter of the Links, Inc.
Vance has written two awardwinning novels, Land Mines,
and Chasing the 400. Her third
novel, Becoming Valley Forge,
will be published in early 2014.
17
UPS Partnership results in $50,000 commitment
to CU and tour of UPS facility for students
A highlight of the 2012-2013 year was the announcement by the United Parcel Service Foundation of
a $50,000 commitment to Cheyney University beginning with a $23,300 grant to help fund student
scholarships and general maintenance costs related to the University’s newest 400-bed residence hall.
The residence hall’s conference room now bears UPS’ name in recognition of their long-standing
support.
“The UPS Foundation is committed to funding impactful programs that make a meaningful difference in our communities – so we are proud to support Cheyney University’s completion of its beautiful new residence hall by providing critical scholarship support to students,” said Ken Sternad, President of The UPS Foundation.
During the 2012-13 academic year, UPS Director of Community Affairs Tony Heath arranged for
Cheyney University staff and students to tour the Philadelphia Chesapeake District UPS facilities.
Students met with corporate professionals to hear about their varied careers and specialized skills.
“We learned about their operation and received a lot of career advice. Mr. Thomas E. White, Jr., the
managing director of sales, has worked for UPS for over 25 years and is an alumnus of Fort Valley
State University, an HBCU in Georgia,” stated CU junior Desmond R. King. “He encouraged us to
work on our writing skills, to be open to move around the country for new opportunities, to remember
how to be an excellent listener, and to network at every opportunity.”
Established in 1951, the UPS Foundation (based in Atlanta, GA) seeks to impact social issues and
build stronger communities by focusing its giving in support of nonprofit effectiveness, encouraging
diversity, community safety and environmental sustainability. In 2011, The UPS Foundation distributed more than $45.3 million worldwide through grants that benefit organizations or institutions such
as Cheyney University.
The Comcast Foundation Supports
CU Living Learning Community
The Comcast Foundation has provided $25,000 in support to Cheyney University’s Robert Bogle Residence Hall Endowment Campaign. “We are pleased to support the students of Cheyney University
and the school’s continued commitment to quality education, and honor Bob Bogle’s leadership,” said
Charisse R. Lillie, Vice President of Comcast Corporation and President of the Comcast Foundation.
The computer lab on the second floor of the new residence hall’s Building A has been designated the
COMCAST NBC-10 COMPUTER LAB. “At Comcast, we know that access to technology provides
young people the knowledge and tools they need to compete in the 21st century,” Lillie explained.
The Comcast Foundation was founded by the Comcast Corporation in June, 1999 to provide charitable support to qualified nonprofit organizations. The Foundation primarily invests in programs
intended to have a positive, sustainable impact on their communities. The Foundation has three community investment priorities—promoting community service, expanding digital literacy, and building tomorrow’s leaders. Since its inception, the Comcast Foundation has donated more than $130
million to organizations in the communities nationwide that Comcast serves. More information about
the Foundation and its programs are available at www.comcast.com/community.
18
Honor Roll of Donors
This Honor Roll reflects only those donations coming directly to the
University between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013. We gratefully acknowledge the support of many of our leaders and friends whose generous
support of Cheyney University is provided through our affiliated organizations (the Cheyney University National Alumni Association, the Cheyney
Foundation, and the “C” Club) or through external donor-advised funds.
Those organizations receipt and acknowledge such donors. Please know
that no matter how your support comes to the University, it is needed and
treasured! Every gift is important!
$100,000 and above
Clarence Schock Foundation
$25,000 to $99,999
Cheyney Foundation, Inc.
Cheyney University
“C” Club
Friends Fiduciary
Corporation
KBR Foundation
Keystone Mercy
PECO
The Charles E. and
Shirley S. Marshall
Charitable Trust
W. W. Smith
Charitable Trust
$15,000 to $24,999
Cheyney University
Class of 1953
State Farm Mutual
Automobile Insurance
Company
The Philadelphia
Foundation
$10,000 to $14,999
Maxine S. Coleman
Roland H. Coleman
The Home Depot “Retool
Your School” Program
Tom Joyner Foundation
$5,000 to $9,999
Elizabeth Berry-Holmes
Chairman Robert W.
Bogle
Cheyney University
National Alumni
Association, North
Carolina Chapter
Charles A. Highsmith
Independence Foundation
Thurgood Marshall
College Fund
$1,000 to $4,999
Dr. Elizabeth A. Adderley
African Episcopal Church
of St. Thomas Music
Committee
Gladstone “Tony” Alleyne
B. Courtney McBath
Ministries, Inc.
Gregory Benjamin
Beta Gamma Foundation
Hermine O. Burris
Faye K. Campbell
Dorcas A. Carter
Cheyney University
National Alumni
Association
Cheyney University
National Alumni
Association, Delaware
Chapter
Cheyney University
National Alumni
Association, Montgomery County Chapter
Cheyney University National Alumni
Association, Philadelphia Chapter
Christian R. & Mary F.
Lindback Foundation
Deborah Grand Chapter
O.E.S - PHA Education
Fund
Anna A. Dorsey
Douglas Memorial
Community Church
Ducky Birts Foundation
Fifteenth Avenue Baptist
Church
Germantown Seventh-Day
Adventist Church
Lawrence Green
Eva I. Hanson Douthit
George R. Harley
Janice Y. Henry
Magnolia Highsmith
Dr. Michelle R.
Howard-Vital
Dr. Ruth Ellen Johnson
Nancy L. Jones
Jacqueline L. Peace
Wendy L. Realer
Julius Reeves
Shiloh Baptist Church
Marion G. Shumake
Simpson United
Methodist Church
Keith N. Singletary
Louise Smith
The Links Foundation,
Inc. Chapter Fund
The School District of the
City of Harrisburg, PA
Jean H. Tiller
Pamela Tiller-Reeves
Geri R. Vital
Carolynn S. Watson
Ernest Watson
Wawa, Inc.
Gertrude S. Williams
Gloria J. Williams Harley
Professor Sallie J. Wilson
$500 to $999
American Chemical
Society
Antioch Baptist Church
Eleanor A. Barnes
June Blue
Darlene I. Branch Smith
Kim J. Bright
Kathleen J. Butler Hayes
Aileen H. Casey
Cheyney University
National Alumni
Association, Delaware
County Chapter
Christ The King
Episcopal Church
Ronnie H. Collins
Dr. Benjamin J. Dent
Joewana M. Freeman
Lynn H. Green
Cheryl E. Harper
Dr. Henry C. Harper
Professor (Ret.) William
W. Hegamin
Sherrin B. Hegamin
Karen L. Highsmith
Tracey J. Hunter Hayes
Larry E. Jack
Dr. Dontina J. Jackson
John Savoy and Son, Inc.
Marilee K. Jones
Rosalind Jones-Johnson
Kendal Crosslands
Communities
Velma C. Lester
M & T Bank
Mann Center for the Performing Arts
Janet B. Manspeaker
McKinley Memorial
Baptist Church
Men of BACA
Elaine L. Miller
Dr. Edith P. Mitchell
Dr. Robert E. Murray
Gladys Murray
Jane C. Nelson
Adrienne N. Owens
Caleb L. Page
Sylvia and George E.
Pilgrim
Wallace M. Pride
Trina Russell
Saint Luke Missionary
Baptist Church
Karen E. Shanks
Shor and Asssociates, Inc.
Spirit &Truth Worship &
Training Church
Ardelia C. Stewart
Ronald L. Stewart
Marcellus Strothers
Henrietta J. Stukes
Ivan B. Turnipseed
Sylvia F. Washington
West Orange High School
Music Boosters
Carl M. Williams
Glenn Wilson
Dr. Emmanuel Witherspoon
(Continued on next page)
19
Honor Roll
(Continued from page 21)
$250 to $499
Erick K. Acolatse
Diane P. Anderson
Barbara J. Barkley
Shawn Blue
Brenda E. Braithwaite
William E. Brooks
Julius H. Brown
Elisabeth A. Burton
Marvin P. Caldwell
Betty H. Camper
James A. Childs
Dr. O’Jetta C. Croswell
Mildred DeShields
Doris C. Fletcher
Joan Flynn
Julius Flynn
Victoria Gibbs
Anna H. Heuer
Heinrich Heuer
Dr. Clarence C. Hoover
Jacob L. Hopper
Carrie L. Jennings
Rosalyn T. Jones
Charles Logan
Clarabon Logan
Clarence A. Martin
Donald McMichael
Vincent M. McVeigh
Rev. Elisha B. Morris
Yvonne A. Morris
Marie B. Prattis
Don V. Ruck Production,
LTD.
Oteria C. Sheldon
James L. Shelton
Simpson United Methodist
Church
Robert T. Smallwood
Gerald A. Smith
Dr. Robert L. Turner
Drema B. Turner
Delorss S. Ware
Mildred G. West
Westtown School
$100 to $249
Dr. Adedoyin Adeyiga
Ameena K. Ali
Thelma H. Anderson
Anonymous Donor
Barbara R. Ashe
Henry D. Ashe
Dr. Eve Atkinson
Delores B. Axam
John A. Axam
Etta G. Baldwin
Barry L. Ballard
Nannie L. Barnwell
Gladys M. Baskerville
Ola S. Bass
Dr. John M. Beeson
Ruby T. Bell
Linda Bell-Powell
Charlotte A. Beverly
Samuel Blow
Patricia Blue Williams
John W. Borders
June C. Boswell
Camelia A. Bowles-Cobb
Lawrence E. Brandon
Christine Broome
Lionel E. Broome
Rochelle 0. Brown-High
Bradley J. Buchner
Etta Caison
William L. Caison
Dr. Shari L. Campbell
Professor (Ret.) Elaine
Carter
Jessie C. Cave-Plummer
Caesar Chandler
Jeffrey C. China
Marianne J. China
Gail E. Clark
Marilyn A. Clark
Mozelle V. Clinton-Butts
Leonard Colston
Nora P. Cowell
Robert L. Crawford
Barbara Daniel Cox
Lossie A. Davis
Wanda Delaine
Shirley M. Dennis
Dr. Anthony L. Dent
Justine P. Devan
Hugh Dickinson
Karen Elizabeth Dike
David L. Dixon
Mr. and Mrs.
George H. Dixon
Mr. and Mrs.
Lawrence Dowdy
Brooks F. Early
Renee A. Easley-Sudler
Dr. Arthur J. Evans
Bette R. Few
Jonathan D. Flynn
Sandra A. Foehl
Mary B. Foley
Dr. Gina L. Freeman
Gwendolyn M. Freeman
Helen Garrett
Creola Gramby
John K. Greene
Joann Griffin
Robert N. Habershaw
Ozzie Hackett
Marion Haliburton
Carolyn C. Hall
Ola Hannah
Frances W. Harold
Carol Harris
Joan A. Harris
Jo-Anne Harris
Renee L. Harrison
Arthur L. Henry
Danika E.
Hernandez Stubbs
Susan Hill Weston
Marilynn T. Holmes
Annabelle W. Jackson
Carolyn D. Jackson
Yvonne Jackson
Dr. Lee Janiczek
JoAnne Jenkins Walls
Marcus A. Joe
Nathaniel Johnson
Nellie B. Johnson
Rita Johnson
Walter W. Johnson
Frederick J. and
Karen Jones
Rosa L. Jones
Jane E. Jordan
Patricia A. Joseph
George Kim
Craig S. Lewis
Gaynelle T. Lewis
Shelton Lowe
Dr. Doris Macon-Ross
Victoria A. Marcos
Lee E. McCardle
Dr. Newton H. Miller
Patricia P. Morse
Willie J. Mouzon
Doris A. Murray
Neighbor To Neighbor
Community Develoopment Corporation
Antoinette Ouattara
Gwendolyn L. Owens
Carol N. Paige
Lindabeth E. Parker
Linda L. Parks
John T. Pearson
Dr. Morris C. Peterkin
Matilda D. Petty
Booker T. Poole
Jean M. Ragin
Sheila A. Ray
H. Louis Reddy
Rose J. Reeder
Harriett Reynolds
Shelby F. Richardson
Bentley Ritter
Marva W. Ritter
Patricia D.
Robinson-Akins
Deborah E. Rogers
Carolyn Ross
Yasir N. Roundtree
Ola W. Roy
Elizabeth C. Rucker
Julia H. Saunders
Corliss T. Scipio-Pearson
Lita M. Scott
Theressa G. Scott
Helen Scott Johnson
Joyce A. Scott-Parker
Jesse L. Shaw
Add Cheyney
to your life
insurance?
If you would like guidance making a planned
gift, or if you already
plan to include CU in
your estate plans, please
contact Mr. Lawrence
Green, Assistant Vice
President of University
Advancement and Director of Sponsored Programs at (610) 399-2137
or(Continued
[email protected].
on next page)
Honor Roll
(Continued from page 22)
Professor Deanna W.
Shelton
Brenda P. Shields
James G. Slaughter
Frank A. Smith
Ruzande Staples
Angela J. Staton
Stephania A. Steed
June A. Strothers
Janet M.
Summers-Rountree
Evans V. Thompson
Faith C. Thompson
Darlene E. Tolbert
Barbara E. Townes
Dorothy Trotter
Michael D. and
Marva Tyler
Irad A. Valentine
Dr. Paul L. Vance
Dr. Sandra Vause
Aaron Waller
Sinyan D. Whitfield
Charles M. Whiting
Adolphus B. Williams
Arthur H. Williams
Eleanor C. Williams
Pearl L. Williams
Glorine Wilson
Alice G. Wootson
Robert E. Wright
Up to $99
Kyle Adams
John Alexis
Mr. and Mrs.
Nello O. Alford
Angelitta Anderson
Marlene Archie
Jaynette Arrington
Lois E. Arrington
Kathleen Asbury
Dr. Sebronette Barnes
Jaron Barnes
Monique Y. Baylor
Shamik Bivings
Laura Blenman
Sutonia Boykin
Betty Ann Bratcher
Etta P. Brown
Maryann Brown Martin
Rita K. Burke
Dennis L. Burton
James F. Butler
Mark Canty
Pamela H. Carter
Emmanuel Chandler
Charlese M. Chapman
Selmon Choice
Maxine L. Colston
Milt Colston
Jasmine Cook
Rachel Coppola
Deeneen Core
Holland Culbreath
Ernest B. Daniels
Lanee Daniels
Rick L. Dennis
Susan J. Dennis
Marsha M. Depte
John and Janie Dinkins
Earline Dixon
Ramona Dixon
Leonard M. Dorfman
Quardricos B. Driskell
Sheniera Dummond
Vanessa P. Edwards
Joel L. Frater
Henry C. Frisby
Dr. Virgilette H. Gaffin
Celliar H. Garris
Latoya C. Graham
Sylvia T. Green
Andrew R. Grier
Bashera Grove
Cheryl R. Hackett
Beatrice Hall
Tyrone Hampton
Renee Harris
Layna Holmes-Butler
Ashley Hughie
Mary P. Hutchman
Dolores D. Jackson
Kathy Jackson
Shon P. Jeffery
Wayne Jenkins
Patrice L. Jeppson
Latasha Johnson
Nancy Johnson
Professor Rita Johnson
Ruby F. Johnson
James and Emily Kellum
Dr. Tara Kent
Pharene Kirton
Florence Klein
Renate La Duke
Steven J. La Duke
Alexander Laurencin
Geraldine C. Lee
Octavia R. Lewis
Margaret S. Lloyd
Abdul Madyun
Dr. Eddie J. Manning
Burnadette L.
Morton-Johnson
Dawn Muchinson
Fanta Murray
Dr. Lut R. Nero
Charlena V. Newell
Curtis Newell
Robert Newton
Hubert K. Ouattara
Christine Pattersson
Teresa Peters
Dr. Suzanne D. Phillips
Randall Poe
Dr. Diana Pollard
McCauley
Professor Sharlah
Ramnarine-Singh
Joan L. Reid
Patrena Rice
Jabari G. Richardson
Bethany W. and Marva W.
Ritter
Hazel B. Robbins
Helen L. Robinson
Marcia Robinson
Sammy Robinson
Mary L. Sampson
Robert L. Sandquist
Mandy C. Santiago
Lois Scott
Gwendolyn Sebastian-Hill
Aundra N. Shields
Joseph Sims
Michael Sloan
Arthur G. Smith
Janis E. Smith
Professor Hazel Spears
Mary B. Starnes
Dominique Stephens
Seith Stephens
Edith Moore Dennis
Stephens
Marilyn
Stephens-Franklyn
Basil Stewart
Susan Stuart
Mr. Willie and
Mrs. Renee Thomas
Timothy Thomas
Victoria Vann-White
Kezirah M. Vaughters
Marian G. Walker
Leann Wallace
Sharon Wallace-Frater
Lucia Ward
Christopher E. Ware
Travis M. Waters
Amia Williams
Darlean C. Williams
Henrietta Williams
Keith B. Williams
Loretta S. Williams
Marie J. Williams
Thelma R. Williams
Tokyahama Wright
Martha H. Young
We make every reasonable
effort to ensure your contribution is listed accurately. If you notice an error
or omission, please let us
know so we can update our
records. We can be reached
at (610) 399-2109 or email
[email protected].
Thank you!
Does your
employer
match your
contribution?
If your or your spouse’s
company has a matching gift program, your
gifts to CU can be easily increased! For more
information, please visit
matchinggifts.com, contact your human resources department, or contact
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[email protected].
Pride
Cheyney
athletics
CU Athletics honors exemplary scholar-athletes
The best of the best student athletes were honored and awarded letterman’s jackets at a ceremony held at the Penn Oaks Country Club. On
hand to commend the students and recognize their excellence were (from left) leadership coach Pierre Campbell , CU Director of Alumni Affairs
Gregory Benjamin, (at right) President of Delaware Alumni Association Clarence Williams, and Cheyney women’s basketball coach Kyle Adams.
The Cheyney University Athletic Department hosted
its Annual Athletics Banquet on May 8 at the Penn
Oaks Golf Club in West Chester, PA. Two hundred people, including student-athletes, coaches, administrators
and family members, packed the ballroom to celebrate
the student-athletes’ accomplishments.
“This is the second time in as many years that the Annual Student-Athlete Banquet was held at Penn Oaks,”
stated Athletic Director Ruffin Bell. “Tonight is all
about the student athletes.”
The Athletes of the Year awards went to a pair of track
and field stand-outs. Kemuel Wright is Cheyney’s top
sprinter who broke the school indoor record in the 60
m dash this year. Shanavia Thomas owns the school record in the long jump, 200 m and is part of the 4 x 100
relay squad that set another new mark this year.
Rookie of the Year honors went to a pair of basketball
players. Brandon Norfleet was named PSAC Freshman
Basketball Player of the Year. He won the weekly award
three times during the course of the season while averaging 13.6 points per contest. Kyra Hines-Allen, a
Montclair, NJ native, guided the Lady Wolves during
22
the season. She averaged 12 points per game and tallied double figures on 15 separate occasions.
The President’s Award is given to the
graduating senior with the highest grade
point average. This year’s recipients
were volleyball player Crystal Mann
and football player Mychal Evans.
The Athletic Department also recognized the academic achievements of
the student-athletes. Thirty-six CU
student athletes were named PSAC
Scholar Athletes with a cumulative
grade point average of 3.25 or better.
“This is the highest number of student athletes that have ever been
named PSAC Scholar Athletes from
Cheyney,” stated Athletic Director
Ruffin Bell. “I’m proud of the effort our
students have displayed in the classroom.
It is a testament to their hard work and the
ability of the coaches to keep them focused
and motivated.”
Sophmore Shanavia Thomas
defies gravity as she floats to an all-time
school record for the long jump. More record-breaking
performances are listed at cheyneywolves.com.
news
Cheyney scholar-athletes lead by example:
Adrese Hicks (football), Alexa Kirksey (women’s track), Alexis Peterson (women’s basketball), Blaze Wasserleben (football),
Christian Sanchez (football), Cory Conway (football), Cristina Jordan women’s basketball), Crystal Mann (Volleyball), Danielle
Mines (volleyball/bowling), Dara Reeves (women’s basketball), Denise Hill (volleyball), Destiny McFarlane (women’s basketball), Devon Dredden (football), Eugene Lett (men’s basketball), Faye Dunston (women’s basketball), Janae Silver (bowling),
Jasmine Carter (women’s track), Jayvon Beaty (men’s basketball), Justin Johnson (football), Kennetha Wallace (volleyball),
Kevia DeLorme (women’s track), Kyra Hines-Allen (women’s basketball), Leroy Stanford (football), Mychal Evans (football),
Nafis Muhammed (football), Nathaniel McCoy (men’s track), Nichel Bryant (volleyball), Robert Tolbert (football), Shanavia
Thomas (women’s track), Sierra-Katherine Brooks (volleyball), Simone Carter (women’s track), Taniqua Purdie (volleyball),
Taylor Billington (bowling), Thony Adler (football), Tyreese Oden (men’s basketball) and Virshae Campbell (volleyball).
In addition to PSAC Scholar Athletes, 66 student athletes were named to the Athletic Directors Honor Roll (3.0
grade point average the previous semester). Below is a list of the awards that each coach gave out to their teams.
Athlete of the Year
Male: Kemuel Wright
Female: Shanavia Thomas
Rookie of the Year
Male: Brandon Norfleet
Female: Kyra Hines-Allen
President’s Scholar Athlete of the Year
Male: Mychal Evans
Female: Crystal Mann
Athletic Director’s Award
Male: Shadeed Cheeseboro
Female: Linda Henderson
Football
Offensive MVP: Blaze Wasserleben
Defensive MVP: Isaiah Fleming
Coaches Award: Dominic Gould
Volleyball
MVP: Denise Hill
Most Improved: Lyndsay Ashby
Unsung Hero: Taniqua Purdie
Bowling
MVP: Danielle Mines
Most Improved: Ciera Brown
Unsung Hero: Taylor Billington
Cheerleaders
MVP: Nettia Johnson-Fripp
Unsung Hero: Melissa Miller
Unsung Hero: Danay Beasley
Women’s Basketball
MVP: Kyra Hines-Allen
Most Improved: Nicole Tyndle
Unsung Hero: Lachelle Miller
Cross Country/Track and Field
Performers of the Year:
Male: Kemuel Wright
Female: Shanavia Thomas
Track Athletes of the Year:
Male: Darius Reeves
Female: Jasmine Carter
Field Athletes of the Year:
Male: Darius Reeves
Female: Shanavia Thomas
Cross Country Athletes of the Year:
Male: Christian Beard
Female: Jasmine Pitt
Coaches Award:
Male: Donte McCorery
Female: Simone Carter
Most Improved:
Male: Adam Dolphin
Female: Taniqua Purdie
Men’s Basketball
Most Improved Player:
DeShawn Curtis
Unsung Hero: Rashaad Slappy
Sportsmanship Award:
Tyreese Oden
Tennis
MVP: Taylor Billington
Most Improved Player:
Taniqua Purdie
Sportsmanship Award:
Jessica LaRoda
2013 Wade Wilson Classic is a classic success
On August 26, the Cheyney University “C” Club hosted its 4th Annual Wade Wilson Golf Classic at the Penn Oaks
Country Club in West Chester, PA. The “C” Club is committed to Cheyney University’s varsity sports, band, and
cheerleaders. “C” Club members believe that a strong athletic program can enhance character and University spirit, as
well as increase Cheyney’s national visibility. Members have contributed steadily since the “C” Club was founded.
“This year’s Honorary Chair, Senator Vincent Hughes, has been a steadfast advocate for Cheyney University for
more than two decades.
The senator represents the
7th District which includes
areas of Philadelphia where
approximately 47 percent of
CU students reside,” stated
President Howard-Vital.
A photo gallery can be
viewed at www.cheyney.edu.
23
2013-14 Schedule
11/10 11/13 11/16 11/20 11/23 11/26 11/30 12/4 12/7 12/17 12/18 12/21 1/3 1/4 1/8 1/11 1/18 1/22 1/25 1/29 2/1 2/5 2/8 2/12 2/19 2/22 2/26 24
(Home games are in yellow)
Coppin State University 7:00 pm (Women Only) *Exhibition Bowie State University 7:30 pm (Men Only) Virginia State University Women: 6:00 pm Men: 8:00 pm
West Chester University Women: 5:30 pm Men: 7:30 pm
Shippensburg University Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm
University of the Sciences Women: 5:30 pm Men: 7:30 pm
Lincoln University (PA) Women: 2:00 pm Men: 4:00 pm
Bloomsburg University Women: 5:30 pm Men: 7:30 pm Mansfield University
Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Seton Hill University Women: 5:30 pm Men: 7:30 pm California University Women: 5:30 pm Men: 7:30 pm Slippery Rock University Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Edinboro University Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Mercyhurst College Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Gannon University Women: 5:30 pm Men: 7:30 pm Kutztown University
Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Millersville University Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm East Stroudsburg University Women: 6:00 pm Men: 8:00 pm Lock Haven University Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm West Chester University Women: 6:00 pm Men: 8:00 pm Shippensburg University Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Bloomsburg University Women: 6:00 pm Men: 8:00 pm Mansfield University
Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Kutztown University
Women: 6:00 pm Men: 8:00 pm Millersville University Women: 6:00 pm Men: 8:00 pm East Stroudsburg University Women: 1:00 pm Men: 3:00 pm Lock Haven University Women: 6:00 pm Men: 8:00 pm 3
1837 University Circle
P. O. Box 200
Cheyney, PA 19319-0200
ensuring
future
the
President’s Cabinet
Michelle R. Howard-Vital, Ph.D., President
Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Alan Skudzinskas, M.B.A., Vice President for Finance and Administration
Lawrence Green, M.S., Assistant Vice President for University Advancement
Suzanne D. Phillips, Ed.D., Vice President for Student Affairs and Student Life
Eric Hilton, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Director of Enrollment Management
Sheilah Vance, J.D. Esq, Chief of Staff and Deputy to the President
Donna J. Parker, Ed.D., Dean of Faculty & Academic Schools
Tara Kent, Ph.D., Dean of the Keystone Honors Academy
Dr. Sesime Adanu, Director of Institutional Research
Ruffin Bell, M.S., Athletic Director
Sharon Cannon, M.Ed., Executive Director of Economic and Workforce Development Center
Council of Trustees
Robert W. Bogle, Chairman
Bishop Audrey Bronson
Lynette Brown-Sow
Senator Vincent J. Hughes
Kristan Justice, Student Trustee
Thane Martin
Samuel Patterson
Larry C. Skinner
James Raith
Robert L. Traynham, II
Joseph I. Wells
PASSHE Chancellor Frank T. Brogan, Ex Officio
Board of Governors
Mr. Guido M. Pichini (Chair)
Ms. Marie Conley (Chair, Human Resources)
Mr. Aaron A. Walton (Vice Chair)
Senator Richard Alloway, II
Representative Matthew E. Baker
Ms. Jennifer Branstetter (designee for
Governor Corbett)
Governor Tom Corbett, Ex Officio
Ms. Sara J. Dickson, Student Trustee
Ms. Carolyn C. Dumaresq,
Acting Secretary of Education
4
Ms. Laura E. Ellsworth, (Vice Chair)
Representative Michael K. Hanna
Mr. Ronald G. Henry (Vice Chair; Chair, Finance,
Administration and Facilities)
Mr. Jonathan B. Mack
Mr. Joseph F. McGinn
Mr. Harold C. Shields
Mr. Robert S. Taylor
Senator John T. Yudichak