Oakwood Administrators Attend HBCU Initiative Conference

This week, representatives from Oakwood University attended the 2014 National HBCU Week Conference in Washington, DC. Titled "Innovators for Future Success" and coordinated by the White House Initiative on HBCUs, the Conference brought together presidents, senior administrators and stakeholders to meet and interact with senior federal officials, representatives from the private sector and foundations in order to meet the evolving challenges in higher education.

Some of the issues covered at the Conference included included building capacity in response to new challenges; responding to issues of accreditation; building sustainable partnerships; strengthening community ties; framing new pathways to science, technology, engineering and mathematics; building networks for on-line courses; improving access and opportunity; and responding to the needs of non-traditional students; and responding to issues of diversity and inclusion.

"This conference allowed me to meet other HBCU counterparts and share challenges as it relates to the area of development in higher education," said Kisha Norris, executive director for Advancement and Development. Norris was one of 11 individuals representing Oakwood at this year's event. She attended the track dealing with institutional advancement.

In a 2012 proclamation, President Barack Obama stated this about HBCUs: "Graduates of these institutions have played an extraordinary role in shaping the progress of our Union by championing equality and changing perspectives through the arts. They have strengthened our Nation by building our economy, teaching our children, healing the sick, and defending America as members of our Armed Forces. Today, HBCUs continue to help move our country forward, cultivating leaders in every area of our society."

How has this HBCU, Oakwood University, helped shape you as an individual? Share your stories today on social media using the hashtag #ILoveOakwoodU or by sending them to pr@oakwood.edu

Oakwood Student Conducts Glaucoma Research

by Monica Spencer, student writer

Oakwood University student Kaleem Burton was awarded a $25,000 UNCF Merck Undergraduate Scholarship, and the opportunity to participate in a summer internship at Duke University. His research abstract was titled "Functional Analysis of SIX6 Gene in Primary Open Angle Glaucoma."

Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by death of retinal ganglion cells and peripheral vision loss. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma and is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.

Burton is a senior majoring in biochemistry with a minor in biology. While at Oakwood, Burton has not only established himself in the area of academics but has also displayed his talents in the arts. He is currently a member of the Aeolians. He is also a member of the Mkono-Nia Drama Ministries.

Edible Arrangements Grand Opening Scheduled for September 29

Oakwood University invites you to the grand opening of its newest business venture, Edible Arrangements on Whitesburg Drive in Huntsville on September 29 at 10:30 a.m. If you can not attend, we ask that you support with your prayers or by ordering from our store at the number in the advertisement above. Proceeds from purchases are for student scholarships. Read more about why Oakwood decided to purchase a franchise business by clicking here and going to page 14.

College Days Coming Soon!

Oakwood's annual "College Days" event is scheduled for October 12-14. Prospective Oakwoodites, chaperones and supporters are scheduled to spend three jam-packed days touring the campus, attending classroom presentations and connecting with "future roommates" from across the US and other territories.

College Days is offered to high school students and college transfer students. Don't miss out on the excitement, and a $500 College Days Scholarship just for participating!

For more information, call (256) 726-7356, or click here to register. You can also watch the video here.

Pollard's Places

This week, I attended the 2014 National HBCU Week Conference, sponsored by the White House Initiative on HBCUs. Also attending from Oakwood were 11 other administrators and professional staff members.

This annual conference underscored the centrality of Historically Black Colleges and Universities to the accomplishment of the nation's educational goals.

Pictured at the podium is U.S. Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan. Another guest speaker I enjoyed hearing was Chris Gardner, philanthropist and inspiration speaker, who was portrayed by actor Will Smith in the film "The Pursuit of Happyness."

OU Picture of the Week

Chaplain Ronald Pollard baptized freshman Eric Muturi as Chaplain Kimberly Pearson celebrates. Eric is one of several students who were baptized on September 20, at the conclusion of the Power-Packed Weekend sponsored by the Office of Spiritual Life. (Photo by Djuvane Martin Photography)

About Oakwood

The mission of Oakwood University, a historically black, Seventh-day Adventist institution, is to transform students through biblically-based education for service to God and humanity.