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By Aaron N. Taylor, assistant professor at Saint Louis University School of Law
The sad and senseless death of Robert Champion has once again raised the issue of college hazing. Champion was a drum major in Florida A&M University's legendary Marching 100, a band known for its ability to merge technical brilliance with innovative showmanship. As a native of Tallahassee, I grew up watching the Marching 100. To this day, its performances give me goose bumps.
Hazing has long been an issue within the band, and Champion's death last month, after he was allegedly punched repeatedly in a hazing ritual, represents only the latest, and most unfortunate, outcome of this barbaric practice. In the wake of that incident, the university's board of trustees has put the band's director, Julian White, on administrative leave and has reprimanded the university's president, James H. Ammons.
But in all the current administrative hand-wringing and public discussion of hazing, an important focus is noticeably absent: the role and culpability of willing victims. And while I am loath to blame victims, they are not always blameless when it comes to hazing. Without them, this pervasive practice could not endure.
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Next year was supposed to be a big year for Florida A&M University. The nation’s largest historically black university is scheduled to celebrate 125 years since its founding in 1887.
Unfortunately, instead of talking about the many contributions its faculty and alumae have made to this country, the FAMU community will be consumed by the H and I words. Not high academic scores, not healthcare solutions for the underserved, but hazing and investigations.
As if to emphasize this sad fact, Tallahassee police on Monday arrested three band members and charged them with hazing for allegedly breaking the thigh of a female band member being initiated into the Red Dawg Order, a band club for Georgia natives.
And on Wednesday, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement announced that its investigation into the hazing death of drum major Robert Champion has led to the opening of another investigation — into fraud at the university.
'The truth needs no defense, and blind ignorance needs no facts' -- The Famuan Student Newspaper, FAMU.
Anycampus, United States -- In the cult classic, "Animal House," the 1978 iconic coming of age film, young men and women seek acceptance among their peers by doing just about anything to join a select group of inner circle members.
More than three decades later, the issue of hazing on college campuses is hardly new, however with the recent death of a Florida A & M University band member, the ritual has once again taken center stage.
The University has formed an independent task force to examine the sudden death of Robert Champion, a member of the famous A & M Marching Band. According to NewsOne, the panel is trying to “determine if there are patterns of inappropriate behavior within the culture of the band,” said A & M President James Ammons, amid rumors of hazing as a possible factor in Champion’s death.
College students seeking membership into elite fraternities and sororities, or in Champion's case, competitive marching bands, sometimes face rigorous physical work-outs and grueling mental accuity tests that can sometimes challenge their moral and ethical standing. Peer pressure to gain acceptance ...
Wednesday’s actions are the latest twist in the ongoing drama since Champion’s Nov. 19 death, which detectives say may have been caused by hazing.
Two weeks ago, FAMU president James Ammons put White on administrative leave with pay and said he intended to fire him. Last week, Ammons told the state university Board of Governors that four students were expelled in relation to Champion’s death.
On Wednesday, university officials said the students have returned to classes because state police ordered that no disciplinary action be taken until criminal investigations are completed. And a university attorney said White will remain on administrative leave with pay but dismissal actions have been dropped.
“This continues to be a sad time for the entire FAMU community, but each day, I see that Robert Champion’s death was not in vain. A dialogue of healing has begun ...
TAMPA, Florida - Despite the death of 26-year-old Florida A & M University student Robert Champion, there are many students from the Tampa Bay area who want to be a part of the world famous marching band.
The Marching 100 dates back to 1946. It started out with just 16 members, but currently has more than 400. The music and the bold moves band members perform on the field mesmerizes crowds. It's why so many schools across the country and in the Tampa Bay area continue to try to duplicate it, like at Tampa Bay Tech High School in Tampa.
Band director Ronal Russell, Jr. and his assistant, Kayraynard Lawrence, were both members of the Marching 100 and there's no question where many of their students want to attend college. Janae Morrow, a senior who's in Tampa Bay Tech's band, says she'll never forget the first time she saw the Marching 100 perform. "It was, like, incredible. I honestly couldn't breathe."
Tallahassee, Florida -- Only WFTV reporter Daralene Jones spoke with a student at Florida A&M University who said she was rushed to the emergency room after being hazed. Bria Hunter said the incident happened just days before band member Robert Champion died in Orlando earlier this month.
Hunter said some band members felt as if they had to join one of the underground groups known as the "Clones," "Red Dogs" and "Gustapos," so they can be accepted by veteran band members.
Champion, 26, mentored several members of the famed FAMU band, before he was hazed to death, including Hunter.
Decatur, Georgia (CNN) -- Somber chords sounded at a funeral service Wednesday for a drum major whose death has sparked an investigation of hazing allegations at his Florida university. Criticisms of hazing and rallying cries for change echoed throughout the three-hour church ceremony.
"I call on every mother, every father, every niece, every uncle: Do what is necessary now to stop this tragedy so that it will never happen again," the Rev. John Tatum shouted into a microphone as he pointed at hundreds of people packed into the pews at Beulah Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia.
Authorities have not specified what caused 26-year-old drum major Robert Champion's death after a performance earlier this month with the Marching 100 band from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). Officials said hazing was involved, and his family has said it plans to sue the school "to get answers."
Speaking at Wednesday's service, FAMU President James H. Ammons pledged to ...
Tallahassee, Florida -- In the whirlwind of events that have unfolded in the past week and a half, it's almost easy to forget that a student died.
There have been protests, Facebook groups and countless other visible outbursts from students, alumni and other supporters to have the Marching "100" reinstated and former Director of Bands Julian White re-hired after the death of student and drum major Robert Champion. But where are the student-led anti-hazing protests and Facebook groups?
Where's the outrage and frustration that a fellow Rattler has been killed and members of one of the university's largest organizations are under investigation for causing it?
This is a difficult time for Rattlers everywhere as we mourn the loss of one of our own, Drum Major Robert Champion. As he is being laid to rest today, let us all become one - a drum major for positive change! As a former Marching 100 member and a FAMU graduate, I have found tremendous peace in God's amazing grace. Please take a listen ...Hubba, Hubba, Robert. (beepbeep)
The wonderful Soweto Gospel Choir singing Amazing Grace.
Orlando, Florida -- Orange County Sheriff Jerry L. Demings announced today that hazing was involved in the death of FAMU student Robert D.Champion in Orlando last weekend. Results of an autopsy performed Monday were inconclusive, Demings said. More medical tests will be performed.
Demings' comments came just hours after Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University announced it has suspended all band performances while the university investigates the circumstances of the drum major's death in Orlando amid allegations of hazing within the school's famed marching band.
FAMU President Dr. James Ammons announced today that FAMU is organizing an independent task force related to "unauthorized and questionable" activities within the 375-member marching band. The panel would try to "determine if there are patterns of inappropriate behavior within the culture of the band," Ammons said.
A Musical & Photographic tribute to the late Robert Champion. Mr. Champion was a Drum Major for the FAMU Marching 100 Band. (this video was originally uploaded by: Twan Born'Bleszed Miller at Facebook. Music by Florida A&M University Marching 100, "Order My Steps," with solo by Star Crawford. Authorities investigate FAMU student’s death
Orlando, Florida -- New details about the mysterious death of a Florida A&M student following this weekend's Florida Classic. University president James Ammons suspended all practices and performances for the Marching 100 band as the investigation into how a member died continues.
Ammons announced the school will form an independent task force to look into the death and determine if there were ongoing inappropriate band customs or traditions. He was a drum major for the FAMU marching band that played at the Florida Classic.
To our brothers and sisters of Florida A&M University, The Marching 100 and the Champion Family. It's pointless to try to express how we feel for you in words. We dedicate this song from the 1999 FSU Marching Chiefs, originally performed for the loss of one of our own. We turn to it again for the same purposes. May you always find comfort in music... -The Florida State University Marching Chiefs
Orlando, Florida - There was a proposal at halftime, a battle of the bands that got downright vicious, soldiers doing pushups in the end zone, beauty queens, a mid-afternoon rainstorm, dancers and imagine tailgating and barbecue on steroids. Oh yeah, there was a football game, too.
The Bethune-Cookman Wildcats took revenge on the Florida A&M Rattlers for last year’s upset with a convincing 26-16 victory in this year’s annual Florida Classic football game played at the Citrus Bowl.
The super bowl between Florida’s historical black colleges felt exactly like that. A festive, playoff-like atmosphere started in the early morning and lasted throughout the contest that drew 60,218. Before the game, surrounding motorways and neighborhoods were paralyzed with revelers willing to put aside differing school colors and partying side by side, at least until game time.
Bethune-Cookman played one of its best all-around games of the season on Saturday, beating Florida A&M in the Florida Classic, 26-16. The game was played at Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium in Orlando.
Bethune-Cookman outgained Florida A&M in the rushing game, 256-58, led by 93 yards from Isidore Jackson. Jonathan Moment added 60 yards and a touchdown on five carries. Quarterback Jackie Wilson completed 13 of 18 passes for 81 yards and a touchdown.
Florida A&M was led by quarterback Damien Fleming, who completed 21 of 38 attempts for 282 yards and two touchdowns. However, he also had three passes intercepted.
Bethune-Cookman didn't score in the first quarter and trailed 3-0, but outscored FAMU 10-0 in the second quarter and 14-7 in the third to take a lead it would not relinquish.
Deputies: No Sign Of Foul Play In Robert Champion's Death
Orlando, Florida -- The drum major for Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University died after being found unresponsive in a bus parked outside of an Orlando hotel Saturday night.
Orange County investigators said Robert Champion, 26, was unresponsive on a bus in the parking lot of the Rosen Plaza Hotel on International Drive just before 10 p.m. The band was staying at the hotel during a trip to the Florida Classic game.
Other band members said Champion had thrown up and could not breathe. His friends called 911 and performed CPR. Paramedics took him to Dr. Phillips Hospital, where he died.
Orange County Sheriff's deputies said a Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University student who died, fell ill and collapsed while aboard a bus parked outside an Orlando hotel where the school's marching band was staying.
Robert Champion, 26, was on the bus with the FAMU marching band in front of the Rosen Plaza hotel on International Drive Saturday when he started vomiting and complained that he couldn't breathe, according to Orange County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Ginette Rodriguez.
Friends called 911 and performed CPR, she said.
Deputies arrived about 9:46 p.m. to find Champion unresponsive, and they transported him to Dr. Phillips hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Baltimore, Maryland -- The Florida A&M Volleyball team returns to the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Volleyball Tournament Championship game, after a one-year hiatus with a 3-0(25-20, 25-15, 25-18) win over Bethune-Cookman in the semifinal round of the tourney, here Saturday afternoon at Physical Education Complex on the campus of Coppin State University.
FAMU (13-12) was led by Maria Ceccarelli as she finished with a game high 16 kills, followed by Marija Jovanic with 11, while Katherine Huanec added 10. Diana Gonzalez led the Lady Rattlers in assists, while Karol Marquez led the team in digs with 14.
BCU (14-18) was led by Jameen Davis with a team high 14 kills, followed by Krysta Gardner with 12. Frances Rodriguez led the Lady Wildcats in assists and digs with 22 digs and five assists.
Five Virgin Islanders from five different colleges competed at the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference indoor track and field championships last weekend in Landover, Md.
Delaware State University junior Leslie Murray and Florida A&M senior Leon Hunt walked away with first-place medals around their necks, and Murray was a member of a record-setting relay team.
"It was a great experience. All of us have come from different programs and it was cool to have us all under the same roof going up against the best from our conference," said Leon Hunt, who is ranked 14th among the nation's best long jumpers. "It was like we were going against rival schools and friends. It was very competitive."
Hunt set a personal best in the long jump earlier this month at the Niswonger Invitational track meet, when he leaped 7.75 meters (25 feet, 4 inches). Hunt was ranked among the conference's elite for most of the indoor season and finished with 7.69 on Saturday.
When the stern conductor in the movie Drumline told band members ``halftime is game time,'' that was only partly fiction. The film was a loose tribute to Dr. William P. Foster, the man who changed the world of college marching bands when he introduced dance and pop music to the Florida A&M University ``Marching 100.''
Foster died Aug. 28 at age 91.
Now, generations of South Floridians -- those who have marched and played and in some cases followed in Foster's footsteps as college high school band directors -- are sharing precious memories of Foster and the many ways he helped shaped their lives and their careers.
When FAMU, one of the nation's most prestigious historically black universities, descended on South Florida Thursday night for its annual football matchup with the University of Miami, UM officials knew they could expect a packed house at Sun Life Stadium.
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"The Brothers of Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity Inc. at the Homegoing Celebration of The Sir Dr. William Patrick Foster."
Delay those purchase orders for new turf shoes -- MEAC/SWAC Challenge teams Delaware State University and Southern University. Same for you also, Florida Classic rivals Bethune-Cookman University and Florida A&M University. You are not out of the mud yet, with the Citrus Bowl. Read on....
You thought the mud debacle at the Citrus Bowl was bad?
Just wait. The long-anticipated installation of artificial turf could be caught up in a legal tangle, potentially damaging the hopes of putting in the new turf in time for the 2010 season. FieldTurf has questioned the way the city awarded AstroTurf the contract to put in the new grass, and is now threatening legal action. Darren Gill, vice president of marketing for FieldTurf, said in a phone interview, “This is not a case of sour grapes, but when the bidding laws aren’t abided by it should be a concern of the citizens of Orlando.”
Gill said the company has requested various documents from the City of Orlando through the Freedom of Information Act and is in the process of determining whether it should take legal action. Rather than go through a public bidding process for the artificial turf, the City of Orlando chose to go through national purchasing co-ops. Both companies already have established contracts through their respective co-ops. The city is a member of both co-ops, so they were allowed to utilize their services. The city then took a look at both contracts and went with AstroTurf “because of the quality, installation, history and pricing,” according to City of Orlando spokeswoman Cassandra Lafser.
Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Commissioner, Dr. Dennis E. Thomas
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA. - The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) announces the 2010 Commissioner's All-Academic Team, recognizing 618 student-athletes from the conference's 12 member institutions who achieved academic success during the 2009-10 academic school year. The team honors student-athletes, including sophomores to seniors, with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better.
"I am pleased to recognize 618 student-athletes who have maintained a 3.0 or better grade point average during the 2009-10 school year," said Commissioner Dennis E. Thomas. "In addition to these academic achievers, I applaud the athletic academic support staff and personnel, coaches, institutions, and parents for their contributions to success of these student-athletes."
Listed below are the 2010 Commissioner's All-Academic Award Winners by institutions:
BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY (54)
Women (27): Analisa Austin (WTR, Business Administration), Crystal Bardge (WTR, Mass Communications), Alexandria Condell (WTR, Physical Education), Jaquennee Flowers (WTR, Accounting), Marketa Ruffin (WTR, Music Performance), LaShondra Wilbon (WTR, Criminal Justice), Nickesha Williams (WTR, Criminal Justice), Jasmine Daniels (WBB, History), Demetria Frank (WBB, Physical Education/Recreation), Kimberly Roe (WBW, Elementary Education), Hanna Bews (WGO, Speech Communication), Brittani Austin (WSB, Sociology), Simone Ceasar (WSB, Business Administration/Marketing), Sabrina Ferguson (WSB, Psychology), Allison Garcia (Criminal Justice), Tameika Jonas (WSB, Physical Education), Briana Leverett (WSB, Nursing), Elizabeth Parish (WSB, Elementary Education), Cesley Tafoya (WSB, Computer Information Systems), Eva Hankova (WTE, Mass Communications), Stacey Lopez (WTE, Biology), Andrea Paez (WTE, Hospitality Management), Janeice Ward (WTE, Accounting), Linda Nwabuko (WVB, Biology), Shanick Reddick (WVB, Elementary Education), Daryl Rodriguez (WVB, Nursing), Chelle Ticeson (WVB, Physical Education/Recreation) .... Men (27): William Cosby (MTR, Psychology), Demetrius Douglas-Davis (MTR, Hospitality Management), Christopher Jackson (MTR, Mass Communications), Martin Embry (MTR, Physical Education/Recreation), Stephen Bertholet (MFB, Mass Communications), Jean-Gardy Fanor (MFB, Psychology), Christopher Perry (MFB, Criminal Justice), Joseph White (MFB, Biology), Emmanuel Castro (MBA, Physical education/Recreation), Justin Dahl (MBA, English), Jeremy Davis (Physical Education/Recreation), Ryan Durrence (MBA, Business Administration/Marketing), Rayan Gonzales (MBA, Biology), Justin Hoyte (MBA, Business Administration), Christopher Lauriello (Criminal Justice), Joseph Munoz (MBA, Hospitality Management), Alejandro Sanchez (MBA, Business Administration), Andrew Tilka (MBA, Educational Studies), Tyrel Adams (MBB, Criminal Justice), Kene Anusionwu (MBB, History), Sean Edey (MGO, International Business), Christian Cruz (MTE, Accounting), Kristofer Martin (MTE, Business Administration/Management Information Systems), Emil Vassilev (MTE, Hospitality Management), Richard Crow (MFB, Psychology), AnQelo Erilus (MFB, Computer Engineering), Ryan Griffin (MFB, History).
Women (68) Sade Bowen(WBB, Sports Sciences), Alexis Johnson(WBB, Criminal Justice), Samantha Koonce(WBB, Biology/Pre-Professional), Ashley Thompson(WBB, Physics), Jazmyne Hefflefinger(BO, Sports Sciences), Adriana Jaime(BO, Education), Tara McQueen (WBO,Computer Science), Brooke Peterson(WBO, Nursing), Samantha Scionti(WBO, Music Education), Courtney Varin (WBO, Biology), Kayln Washburn (WBO, English), Calis Emerson (WCC, Accounting), Capri Jones (WCC, Accounting), Kendra Mayers (WCC, Sports Sciences), Charnise McCombs (WCC, Biology), Brittany Roberson (WCC, Pre-Nursing), Ashley Blake (WTR, Education), Tracy Fan Fan (WTR, Pre-Nursing), Ayanna Kelly (WTR, Mass Communications), Victoria McGroary (WTR, Political Science), Krystina Muhammad (WTR, Sports Sciences), Marshae Richardson(WTR, Criminal Justice), Ashley Butler (WEQ, Management), Brittni Collins (WEQ, Agriculture), Caroline Foltz (WEQ, Agriculture), Amanda Hotz (WEQ, Agriculture), Jennifer McInnis (WEQ, Political Science), Jennifer Pierson (WEQ, Agriculture), Morgan Scuse (WEQ, Chemistry/Pre-Professional), Jessica Smith (WEQ, Agriculture), Elizabeth Tuttle (WEQ, Management), Chelsea Brown (WSO, Chemistry), Kelly Cheng (WSO, Sports Sciences), Brittany Curtis (WSO, Chemistry), Brianna Dingman (WSO, Management), Michelle Giorgilli (WSO, Forensic Biology), Ashlee Gourdine (WSO, Biology), Courtney Haas (WSO, Sports Sciences), Leah Hontz (WSO, Education), Kristin Mathis (WSO, Sports Sciences), Casey Beighley (WSB, Mass Communications), Janelle Lukens (WSB, Mass Communications), Leslie Pleasanton (WSB, Education), Twany Reeger (WSB, Chemistry), Jordan Reid (WSB, Criminal Justice), Allison Rubin (WSB, History), Sherelle Sheppard (WSB, History), JoCarol Shields (WSB, Sports Sciences), Andrea Waters (WSB, Political Science), Hannah Adewumi (WTE, Computer Science), Christina Andrade-Pires (WTE, Finance & Banking), Anna Kovtun (WTE, Criminal Justice), Cassandra Newton (WTE, Hospitality Tourism Management), Polina Razborova (WTE, Finance & Banking), Sonja Banicevic (WVB, Finance & Banking), Martina Ferrari (WVB, Political Science), Ashley Herman (WVB, Biology), Elisa Herman (WVB, Hospitality Tourism Management), Princess Puckett (WVB, Movement Science), Maja Rudolph (WVB, Mathematics), Erica Tajchman (WVB, biology/Pre-Professional), Jasmine Bolton (CH, Public Relations), Carlita Constant (CH, Psychology), Jasmine Cooper (CH, Accounting), Jessica Dickerson (CH, Political Science), Corrine Gramby (CH, Textiles & Apparels), Tynisha Hearne (CH, Music Education), Bethany Stewart (CH, History) .... Men (30): Scott Davis (MBA, Physical Education), Jordan Elliot (MBA, Sports Sciences), Joshua Harris (MBA, Physical Education), Keith Hernandez (MBA, Criminal Justice), Derrek Johnson (MBA, Psychology), Matthew Millman (MBA, Sports Sciences), Kevin Noriega (MBA, Marketing), Jose Portela-Berrios (MBA, Biology), Michael Rizzuto (MBA, Management), Joe Rush (\MBA, Sports Sciences), George Bansah (MFB, Undecided), Andre Carroll (MFB, Sports Sciences), BJ Conley (MFB, Criminal Justice), Mike Gable (MFB, Biology/Pre-Professional), Darryl Hicks (MFB, Criminal Justice), Byron Lewis (MFB, Criminal Justice), Calvin Miner (MFB, Criminal Justice), Nick Richmond (MFB,Sports Sciences), Steven Steinbacher (MFB, Management), Travis Tarpley (MFB, Management), Brandon Baylor (MBB, Psychology), James Marcellus (MBB, Management), Greg Smith (MBB, Movement Science), Trevor Welcher (MBB, Sports Sciences), Ryan Agan (MCC, Airway Sciences), Alan Laws (MCC, Sports Sciences), David Bruce (MTR, Sports Sciences), Brian Gelis (MTE, Computer Science), Roman Pitatelev (MTE, Accounting), Milos Velickovic (MTE, Management).
FAMU sophomore Derrick Shaw is getting in done in the classroom, in baseball and football. The 2010 first team All-MEAC infielder was named to the Louisville Slugger All-American team as a freshman; play the QB/DB position for Rattlers football; and has a 3.5 GPA in the classroom--majoring in Social Work.
FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY (26)
Women (8): Amanda Reyes (WSB, Architecture), Kierra Holiday (WTR, Criminal Justice), Tiffany Morrow (WTR, Criminal Justice), Ashley Melson (WBO, Criminal Justice), Danielle Anderson (WBB, Chemistry), Tameka McKelton (WBB, Criminal Justice), Kathline Durden (WTE, Computer Info), Jessica Bond (WVB, Business).... Men (18): Jack Dash (MSW, Engineering), Akie Smythe (MSW, Intem, Agriculture), Adeyemi Oluwatobiloba (MBA, Psychology), David Duncan (MBA, Undeclared), Darryl Evans Jr. (MBA, Criminal Justice), Isaac Brown (MBB, Journalism), Yannick Crowder (MBB, Business), Christopher Walker (MBB, Criminal Justice), Gallop Franklin (MGO, Pharmacy), Elijah Jackson (MGO, Pre-Med), Forrest Jenkins (MTE, Business), Micheal Moore (MTE, Political Science), Cameron Houston (MFB, Criminal Justice), Gregory Lee (MFB, African-American History), Cory McCloughen (MFB, History), Padric Scott (MFB, Biology), Derrick Shaw (MFB, Social Work), Isaac West (MFB, Criminal Justice)
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY (48)
Women (31): Mianna Armstrong (WVB, Biology), Tiffany Brents (WSB, Psychology), BreAnna Brown (WSB, Entrepreneurship), Tavonna Byrd (WSB, 5yr MBA), Lihi Elkayam (WVB, Psychology), Ashley Hampton (WBO, Business Management), Margaret Harris (WTR, Computer Engineering), Aaryn Harrison (WVB, Chemistry), Whitney Hill (WBB, Sociology), Whitney Hubbard (WVB, Public Relations), Jada Jeffries (WSB, Electrical Engineering), Jericka Jenkins (WBB, Criminal Justice), Kenya Jones (WTR, Sports Management), Sydnee Mack (WGO, Public Relations) Dara Martin (WBO, Marketing), Camille McGirt (WBB, Psychology), Choicetta McMillian (WBB, English), Jessi Mitchell (WGO, Broadcast Journalism), Brittani Reynolds (WBO, Business Management), Petrice Richards (WTR, Physical Education), Jazzmin Richey-Obey (WBO, Sociology), Jovanna Sangria (WTE, Public Relations), Kelsei Saunders (WSB, Communicative Science Disorders), Ivana Suput (WVB, Psychology), Brittany Thomas (WBB, Accounting), Racquel Vassell (WTR, Physical Education), Melanie Warner (WBB, Business Management), Jocelyn Watkins (WTR, Psychology), Dionne West (WGO, 5yr MBA), Kiara Williams (WBO, Pharmacy), Brittany Wynne (WVB, Psychology)....Men (17): Edson Alves (MTE, Business Management), Jahmal Blanchard (MFB, Art), Landon Collins (MFB, Biology), Damon Dixon (MTR, Finance), Ian Guagliardo (MSL, Aviation), Shane Horsford (MSL, Accounting), Darius Johnson (MFB, electrical Engineering), Winston Kennedy (MFB, Psychology), David Kimani (MTR, Nursing), Nelio Mattos (MTE, Business Management), Louis Preston (MFB, 5yr MBA), Marcelo Reda (MTE, Health/Physical Education), Jason Sherer (MGO, Biology), Bakari Taylor (MBB, Recreation), Gellert Varga (MTE, Finance), LaMar Veale (MTR, History), Andre Watkins (MFB, Art)
In Performance at The White House, Washington, D.C: The Howard University Choir, under the direction of J. Norris Weldon, sings "Lord, I Don' Done."Congratulation to the 2010 MEAC All-Academic Student-Athletes for an expectional job well done.
HOWARD UNIVERSITY (100)
Women (61): Carae Baulkman (WBB, Physical Education), Amanda-Gay Edwards (WBB, Biology), Courtney Fields (WBB, Physical Therapy), Jalisa Pullins (WBB, Radio/TV/Film), Shayla Haynes (WBW, Physical Therapy), Alesyn McCall (WBW, Radio/TV/Film) Brianna Uzzell (WBW, Administration of Justice), Desiree Cox (WLA, Leisure Studies), Eboni Farmer (WLA, Journalism), Ashley Foote (WLA, Communication and Culture), Ashley Lawrence (WLA, Human Performance), Amber Meeks (WLA, Communication and Culture), Imani Oakley (WLA, Biology), Ivy Pierce (WLA, Psychology), Lauren Rivers (WLA, Communication Sciences and Disorders), Chanel Bell (WSO, Sociology), Christina Bodison (WSO, Biology), Beatrice Charles (WSO, Human Performance), Camille Grayson (WSO, Journalism), Joslyn Johnson (WSO, Biology), Rachael Lee (WSO, Accounting), Stephanie McLean (WSO, Finance), Brittany Miner (WSO, Business Administration), Ciera Gordon (WSB, Biology), Jessica Hurston (WSB, Radio/TV/Film), Emily Johnson (WSB, Architecture), Trina Kindred (WSB, Biology), Rebecca Kirshner (WSB, Marketing), Morgan Plowden (WSB, Civil Engineering), Lorae Robinson (WSB, Biology), Candace Rogers (WSB, International Business), Nicole Saez (WSB, Administration of Justice),Christine Sborz (WSB, Political Science), Lauren Anthony (WSW, Fashion Merchandising), Polo Edwards (WSW, Human Performance), Monique Major (WSW, Psychology), Rochelle Smith (WSW, Communication and Culture), Anne Akhimien (WTE, Chemistry), Michelle Brown (MTE, Undecided), Amber Cuff (WTE, Fashion merchandising), Ashley Moore (WTE, Undecided), Caroline Snowden (WTE, Journalism), Alyssa Works (WTE, Health Science), Mya Aaten-White (WTR, Philosophy), Norell Abernathy (WTR, Radio/TV/Film), Shatima Aycock (WTR, Biology), Jami Hardy (WTR, Health Education), Ashley Hodges (WTR, Political Science), Brittany Jackson (WTR, Nursing), Krystal Jenkins (WTR, Spanish), Alexandria McKee (WTR, Political Science), Tamila Myles (WTR, Journalism), Brittany Stephens (WTR, Journalism), Jannelle Wallace (WTR, Marketing), Amelia Woodruff (WTR, Human Performance), Andrea Brown (WVB, Political Science), Oluwatosin Elebute (WVB, Health Science), Taylor Johnson (WVB, Undecided), Gabrielle Martin (WVB, Radio/TV/ Film), Monique McCoy (WVB, Human Development), Nia Moore (WVB, Journalism) ....Men (39): Nathaniel Cooper, Jr. (MBB, Economics), Paul Kirkpatrick (MBB, Human Performance), Kyle Riley (MBB, Leisure Studies), Mukole Tshimuanga (MBB, Leisure Studies), Kenneth Austin (MFB, Physical Education), Jermell Ellis (MFB, Leisure Studies), Patrick Jean-Mary (MFB, International Business), Lanny Kelly (MFB, Leisure Studies), Anthony Mendoza (MFB, Spanish), Xavier Rucker (MFB, Leisure Studies), Brandon Sherman (MFB, Leisure Studies), Dennis Wiehberg (Radio/TV/Film), Patrick Wolff (MFB, International Business), Chatman Young (MFB, Accounting), Gary Clark (MSO, Mechanical Engineering), Brian Cunningham (Supply Chain Management), Jamil Devers (MSO, Pre-Physical Therapy), Daniel Hernandez (MSO, Administration of Justice), Rotimi Iziduh (MSO, Systems and Computer Science), Harvey Livingston III (MSO, Leisure Studies), Mathew Marshall (MSO, Radio/TV/Film), Shamir Saddler (MSO, Computer Engineering), Christopher Southerland (MSO, Human Performance), Kelvin Goodman (MSW, Computer Engineering), Blair Matthews (MSW, Anthropology/Political Science), Omar McKenzie (MSW, Biology), Justin Morrison (MSW, Philosophy), Julian Moseley (MSW, Marketing), Damjan Strbac (MSW, Political Science), Christopher Brown (MTE, Radio/TV/Film), Eric Chavous (MTE, International Business), Tonique Merrill (MTE, Systems and Computer Science), Devard Wharton (Civil Engineering), Tyler Dragon (MTR, Political Science), William Gibbs (MTR, Finance), Marcus Harrison (MTR, Information Systems and Analysis), Mikael La Roche (MTR, Art), Tory McAlister (MTR, Mechanical Engineering), Benjamin Rosa (MTR, Economics)
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE (55)
Women (32): Rayna Brown (WBB, English/Sociology), Krystal Watson (WBB, Accounting), Latoya Coltrane (WTE, Criminal Justice), Latoya Jones-Stewart (WTE, Hotel and Restaurant Management), Ann Katenta (WTE, Biology), Kira Chapman (WTE, Hotel and Restaurant Management), Katherine Brown (WBW, Applied Design), Kristina Frahm (WBW, Accounting), Stacy Parsons (WBW, Business Administration/Marketing), Maria Rodriquez (WBW, Engineering), Maria Vilas (WBW/WTE, General Studies), Kaitlyn Young (WBW, Criminal Justice), Ebony Hann (WSB, English), Chelsea Logan (WSB, English Education), Britney Mcleod (WSB, Special Education), Kristi Miranda (Criminal Justice), Cy'Anna Scott (WSB, Environmental Science), Hadiyah Abdul-Saboor (WTR, Human Ecology/Business Administration), Jessica Abrantes (WTR, Criminal Justice/English), Cynthia Anais (WTR, Applied Design), Rashida Beckford (WTR, Human Ecology), Ariana Forbes (WTR, Criminal Justice), Amaris James (WTR, Physician Assistant) Tamica Thomas (WTR, Exercise Science), Zoe Bowens (WVB, English), Samantha Chukwura (WVB, Biology), Christine Edwards (WVB, Computer Science), Whitney Johnson (WVB, Exercise Science), Thonya Joseph (WVB, Sociology), Chelsea Myers (WVB, Exercise Science), Rebecca Prado (Human Ecology), Caylin Woodward (WVB, Social Studies Education) .....Men (23): Timothy Burns (MBB, General Studies), Reginald Hines (MBB, English), Lyvann Obame (MBB, Accounting), Mark Robertson (MBB, Accounting), Robert Tucker (MBB, General Studies), Rashad James (MTE, Sociology), Osvaldo Rivera (MTE, Music Education), Emmash Sudusinghe (MTE, Accounting), Richard Warren (MTE, Exercise Science), Elliott Alston (MBA, English), Elliott Arrington (MBA, Business Administration), Bryan Chaikowksy (MBA, Exercise Science), James Corriveau (MBA, Criminal Justice), Abraham Gonzalez-Loyola (MBA, History), Phillip Vaughn (MBA, Accounting), Nicholas Wiggins (MBA, Business Finance), Cameron Zimmerman (MBA, Aviation Science), Harrison Agbor-Eyong (MTR, Biology), Charles Elmer (MTR, Aviation Science), Thomas Keane Dawes (MTR, Business Administration/Marketing), Amon Kiprotich (MTR, Mathematics), Shadrack Maritim (MTR, Biology), Johan Welter (MTR, General Studies)
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (48)
Women (33): Danielle Gibson (CH, Information Systems), Tamera Lyons (CH, Telecommunications), Rashida Watson (CH, Speech), Corin Adams (WBB, Physical Education), Moneshia Davis (WBB, Sports Administration), Theresa Davis (WBB, Physical Education), Habibatou Diagne (WBB, Accounting), Brittany Dodson (WBB, Telecommunication), Pylicia Jones (WBB, Finance), Dekeisha Mathis (WBB, Biology), Brittany Noel (WBB, Management), Aaries Reed (WBB, Sociology), Tevonia Williams (WBB, Sociology), Corey Lissik (WBW, History), Keisheena Waldon (WBW, Mathematics), Lauren Campbell (WTR, Transportation), JaMia Robinson (WTR, Telecommunications), Kamice Smalls (WTR, Sociology), Porche Boddicker (WSB, Psychology), Kriston Gowan (WSB, English), Jaclyn Hall (WSB, Accounting), Hannah Montgomery (WSB, Physical Education), Angela Nunez (WSB, Health Education), Sakina Smith (WSB, Medical Terminology), Lydia Walther-Rodriquez (WSB, Finance), Viktoriya Lukyanenko (WTE, Accounting), Alexis McCoy (WTE, Psychology), Pola Olczak (WTE, Chemistry), Ivanti Bush (WVB, Family and Consumer Sciences), Delissa Carline (WVB, Industrial Engineering), Christa Rogers (WVB/WTE, Electrical Engineering), Rhyan Shy (WVB, Nursing), Hilary Tutman (WVB, Hospitality Management) ....Men (15): John Long (MB, Telecommunications), Tyron Benjamin (MTR, Physical Education), Salifu Cham (MTR, Business Administration), Jude Obiarinze (MTR, Accounting), Lawrence Brewer (MFB, Business Administration), Shaka Miller (MFB, Business Administration), Allen Stephens (MFB, Telecommunications), Jarvis West (MFB, Physical Education), Kevon Charles (MTE, Electrical Engineering), Dmitry Chehalatyy (MTE, Hospitality Management), Isaac Richardson (MTR, Industrial Engineering), Cabinere Whyte (MTR, Accounting), Justin Lawrence (MFB, Sociology), Troy Leftwich (MFB, Architecture), Terrell White (MFB, Business Administration).
North Carolina A&T State University's Ta'Wuana Cook (#5) had an All-American career for the Lady Aggies. The three time All-MEAC selection leaves A&T second in school history in scoring with 1723 points and as the all-time assist leader. Cook has been named first-team Division I all-state by the North Carolina Collegiate Sports Information Association. She is the first women's basketball player in school history to be named MEAC Rookie of the Year. Cook will receive her Bachelor's degree with honors in Sports Science.
NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY (46)
Women (28): Tyronnica Alford (WBB, Psychology), Bianca Alsobrook (WSB, Political Science), Amanda Breendan (WTR, Mech Engineering), Lillian Bullock (WSB, Accounting), Tangala Conover (WSB, Criminal Justice), Ta'Wuana Cook (WBB, Sports Science), Nakia DeBlanc (Elementary Education), Katherine Forrester (WTR, Accounting), Jerrine Foster (WTR, Civil Engineering), Jasmine Gurley (WSW, JOMC), Nina Henry (WTE, Computer Science), Ruth-Cassandra Hunt (WTR, Criminal Justice), Amber Inman (WVB, Sports Science), Jessie Larson (WSB, Animal Science), Jennifer Luper (WSB, JOMC), Bridget McCaskill (WVB, Biology), Keisha McDonald (WSW, Criminal Justice), Crystal Murdaugh (WBB, Social Work), Lashawn Nevins (WSB, Industrial Engineering), Danielle Nguyen (WSB, Sports Science), Winnie Quick (WTE, Accounting), Britney Reddick (WSB, JOMC), Kimona Smith (WTR, Accounting), Sarah Taylor (WBW, Liberal Studies), Tierra Thomas (WBB, Nursing), Antoinette Torres (WSB, Animal Science), Signe Waldbauer (WSW, Secondary Education), Czamille Wright (WSW, Elementary Education) ....Men (18): Julian Alford (MFB, Electrical Engineering), Jared Baldwin (MBB, Computer Engineering), Danzeto Cephas (MTR, Business Administration), Carvell Copeland (MBA, Sports Science), Jamel Fitzgerald (MFB, Electrical Engineering), Mathew Hamler (MFB, Marketing), Marc Hill (MBB, Graphic Communication Systems), James Howard (MBA, Industrial Technology), Akinwole Jordan (MTR, Graphic Communication Systems), Justin Kearny (MFB, Transportation), Giorgio Lowrance (MFB, Sports Science), Esterlin Paulino (MBA, Liberal Studies), Nicholas Rogers (MBA, Architectural Engineering), Alex Sanders (MTR, Marketing), Jonanthan Smith (MBA, Sports Science), Isaiah Thompson (Sports Science), Jamal Wardlaw (MFB, Sports Science), Jared Williams (MBB, Computer Science)
NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY (40)
Women (25): Breanna Allums (WVB, Health Services Management), Jennifer Astbury (WTE, Physical Education), Naeemah Brooks (WTE, Elementary Education), Genor Dalton (WBB, Computer Science), Antoinette Drakeford (WBW, Psychology), Danielle Drummer (WTR, Nursing), Brianiesha Eure (WSB, Information Technology), Brittany Foster ( WTE, Biology), Solange Monroe (WVB, Graphic Design), Tiffany Hunt (WBW, Computer Science), Aurelia Isham (WVB, Physical Education), Tanisha Jenkins (WTR, Political Science), Nicole Kessner (WVB, Kinesiotherapy), Tia Miles (WTR, Psychology), Alyssa Pickett (WTR, Kinesiotherapy), Casey Pomeroy (WSB, Accounting), Jaime Raab (WSB, Interdisciplinary Studies), Meghan Ramsey (WSB, Physical Education), Candace Shoates (MTR, Mass Communications), Shelia-Marie Smith (WBW, Sociology), Krystal Stevenson (WBW, Electrical Engineering), Danelle Tate (WBB, Business Management), Chengetayi Tsapayi (WTE, Accounting), Alyssa Velazquez (WSB, Business Management), Danielle Wright (WSB, Sociology) ....Men (15): Kyle Davis (MBA, Kinesiotherapy), Brett Dodd (MTR, Psychology), Jonathan Griffin (MTR, Sociology), Ryan Hathaway (MFB, Electronics Technology), Juan Herrera (MBA, Building Construction), Alex Moody (MFB, Mass Communications), Cameron Parsons (MBA, Accounting), Aleek Pauline (MBB, Mass Communications), Antoine Perry (MBB, Entrepreneurship), Terrance Pugh (MFB, Computer Science), Vincent Rono (MTR, Psychology), Anthony Taylor (MFB, Psychology), Anthony Tillman (MTR, Fine Arts), Ricardo Volcin (MFB, Sociology), Carnell Williams (MFB, Interdisciplinary Studies)
Passed over during the NFL draft, Southern wide receiver Juamorris Stewart doesn’t have to wonder if he’d have a shot at the pros. Saturday night, Stewart said he has agreed to sign a free-agent deal with the Arizona Cardinals. Even as the seventh and final round plodded along Saturday, several teams started calling Stewart to offer free-agent deals. “I talked to a bunch of teams, but they have a young group and (the Cardinals) like throwing the ball,” Stewart said. “I’m just hoping I can come in and show what I can do. I’m happy and very excited.” Stewart said he and his agent, Tyron Collins, haven’t yet worked out the details with Arizona, but Stewart said he believes he’ll get a two- or three-year deal. The Cardinals’ rookie minicamp begins Thursday, he said, so he needs to be in Phoenix before then.
Florida A&M record-setting return specialist LeRoy Vann got a lot of telephone calls during the past three days. Most of them were from folks wishing him well in the NFL Draft. Some even told him his height — 5-foot-8 — would be the thing that kept him out of the draft Saturday evening. The San Francisco 49ers decided to look past what Vann might lack in height and signed him to a free-agent contract.
The post-draft news also was good for offensive lineman Robert Okeafor, who was invited Saturday afternoon to attend the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' minicamp next week. The two former Rattlers become the first FAMU players to be in the NFL conversation since quarterback Quinn Gray 10 years ago. Vann said he will also report to the 49ers' minicamp Thursday.
South Carolina State receiver Oliver 'Tre' Young and safety Rafael Bush did not have long to dwell on the disappointment of not hearing their names called during the NFL draft. Just over an hour following the selection of the final draft pick, the two were in the process of finalizing free agent contracts with opposing NFC South teams. The Charleston native Young inked a deal with the Carolina Panthers, while Bush will compete for a roster spot with the Atlanta Falcons.
"My agent felt that the Panthers were the best place to go, somewhere where I could possibly make the ball club," Young said. Earlier in the day, the only S.C. State player to get drafted was defensive back Phillip Adams, who was taken by the San Francisco 49'ers in the seventh round.
Alcorn State University Braves QB Timothy Buckley (#7) inked a free agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons. He will play at WR for the Falcons.
2010 Free Agent Signings
Rafael Bush, DB, South Carolina State, Atlanta Falcons
Will Croner, DE, Howard University, Buffalo Bills
Chris Bell, WR, Norfolk State, New Orleans Saints
Marcell Young, CB, Jackson State, New Orleans Saints
Leroy Vann, KR, FAMU, San Francisco 49'ers E.J. Morton-Green, WR, Morgan State (Tryout), Green Bay Packers Philip Kirkland, WR, Bethune-Cookman (Tryout), New York Jets Oliver Tre' Young, WR, South Carolina State, Carolina Panthers Robert Okeafor, OL, FAMU - Tampa Bay Bucs
Tim Buckley, QB/WR, Alcorn State, Atlanta Falcons Damon McDaniel, WR, Hampton U. (Tryout), N.Y. Jets
Eric Perri, Kicker, Jackson State, New Orleans Saints
Bloi-Dei Dorzon, RB, Jackson State, Tennessee Titans
Bobby Reid, QB, Texas Southern, Tampa Bay Bucs
Gabriel Manns, OL, North Carolina Central, Cincinnati Bengals. Will Scott, WR, North Carolina Central, Green Bay Packers
VIRGINIA BEACH, VA - The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) announced today the five members of its' 2010 Hall of Fame Class that will be honored during a banquet on Friday, March 12, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the M.C. Benton, Jr. Convention Center in Winston-Salem, N.C. "We are excited to recognize another outstanding class of inductees who have made a significant impact on their institutions and our conference during their collegiate days and beyond," said Dennis E. Thomas, MEAC Commissioner. "I'd like to congratulate the 2010 MEAC Hall of Fame Class for all of their achievements both athletically and professionally."
The Hall of Fame Class will be honored in conjunction with the 2010 MEAC Basketball Tournament, held March 8-13 at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum (LJVM) in Winston-Salem. Enshrinees were selected by an 11-person committee made up of administrators from each member institution. The MEAC Hall of Fame includes former student-athletes, coaches, university and/or conference administrators as well as special contributors, who have enriched the legacy of the conference since its inception in 1969.
The MEAC Hall of Fame inducted its first class on May 29, 1981, during a 10-year anniversary banquet in Greensboro, N.C. Since its establishment in 1981, the Hall of Fame has enshrined 103 people, including the Class of 2010.
The 2010 MEAC Hall of Fame Inductees are:
Inducted as a Student-Athlete: Rickey Anderson, South Carolina State: was the first South Carolina State football player to surpass the 1,000 yard mark with 1,195 total yards. In 1977, he guided the Bulldogs to a 6-0 conference mark en route to their fourth consecutive MEAC title. That same year, he earned All-MEAC First-Team accolades and was named the MEAC Offensive Player of the Year. The 1977 Associated Press College Division All-American holds the school record for career averages per carry (6.5; 1974-77). Anderson was a third-round draft choice by the San Diego Chargers in the 1978 National Football League (NFL) draft. He was inducted into the South Carolina State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 2006 and was a member of the South Carolina State Centennial football team in 2008.
Jacquay Nunnally, Florida A&M: was a three-time football Division I All-American at Florida A&M, who led the Rattlers to the NCAA Division I FCS (formerly I-AA) playoffs in 1997-2000. He is second all-time in NCAA Division I FCS football record books in career pass receptions with 317 for 4,239 yards and 38 touchdowns. Nunnally holds the NCAA Division I FCS record for most yards gained by a freshman during a game in his 284 yard performance on October 11, 1997 against North Carolina A&T. He caught 13 passes in the victory. Nunally led the FCS in 1998 in receiving with 96 receptions for 1,316 yards and 12 touchdowns. The four-time All-MEAC First-Team honoree (1997-2000) was named the Black College Player of the Year in 1998 and 2000. He concluded his collegiate career with 362 catches and was inducted into the Florida A&M Sports Hall of Fame in 2009.
Ira Smith, Maryland Eastern Shore: led the nation and was the NCAA Division I batting champion in 1989 (.488) and 1990 (.519). Smith is sixth all-time in the NCAA Division I record books with the highest season batting average of .519 (1990) and 14th all-time with a .431 batting average from 1986 and 1988-90. Smith was Maryland Eastern Shore's Valuable Player in 1989 and had a career batting average of .330. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 1991 Major League Baseball (MLB) draft and played professionally up until 1999. He was inducted into the Maryland Eastern Shore Hall of Fame in 2004.
Ted White, Howard: served as quarterback for the Howard football team from 1995-1998 and was named the MEAC Offensive Player of the Year in 1996. He holds the MEAC and school record for passing completions (638), passing yardage (9,908) and touchdown passes (92) during his tenure at Howard. White set the MEAC record for a single-game best mark in passing yards with 561 and eight TD's against Florida A&M on October 17, 1998. He leads the MEAC with 1,169 passing attempts and 9,845 total offensive yards in his four-year career. White played professionally in the NFL for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1998 and the Kansas City Chiefs in 1999.
Inducted as a Conference Administrator:
Ed Hill, Howard: has served as the Sports Information Director at Howard for over two decades (1983-present). The talented writer's stories have appeared in USA Today and the NCAA News. Hill is a member of the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) and Black College Sports Information Directors of America (BCSIDA). He is also active in the Washington, DC community where he served as head coach and co-founder of the DC Warriors basketball program and as a counselor for the National Youth Sports Program (NYSP). Hill is also an adjunct professor at Howard where he teaches a course on Sports and the Media. He has worked 283 consecutive Howard football games and has not missed a game since the 1984 season. In 2005, Hill was honored by CoSIDA as the Bob Kenworthy Award recipient for his community service outside the profession. He was honored by CoSIDA again in 2009 when he was presented with the 15-Year Service Award. Prior to his appointment at Howard, Hill was a staff writer for the Winston-Salem Chronicle and the Black College Sports Page. He has also worked as a news aide and freelance writer for the Washington Post.
Three months ago, 45 marching bands from the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) began the journey down the “Road to the Honda,” all competing for a spot in the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase. Out of 45 competing marching bands from the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), eight have been chosen to perform in January at the 2010 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB) Invitational Showcase.
Representing varied music and performance styles ranging from precision to high-stepping, the eight headlining bands are:
• Albany State University “Marching Rams” (Albany, Georgia)
• Clark Atlanta University “Mighty Marching Panthers” (Atlanta, Georgia)
• Florida A&M University “Marching 100” (Tallahassee, Florida)
• North Carolina Central University “Marching Sound Machine” (Durham, North Carolina)
• Prairie View A&M University “Marching Storm” (Prairie View, Texas)
• Southern University “Human Jukebox Marching Band” (Baton Rouge, Louisiana)
• Tuskegee University “Marching Crimson Pipers” (Tuskegee, Alabama)
• Virginia State University “Trojan Explosion Marching Band” (Petersburg, Virginia)
On January 30, 2010, the bands will perform for a crowd of 60,000 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta and prove why they are the best of the best. Marking its eighth year, the Honda Battle of the Bands is the only national scholarship program that showcases an important facet of HBCU heritage and culture – music education.
The eight winning band programs chosen to participate in this year’s Invitational Showcase will be awarded $20,000 by American Honda for their music programs in addition to the $1,000 grant they received for participation in the pre-qualifying fall campus event tour. Through this program Honda is awarding a total of $205,000 in scholarships to HBCU music programs for the 2009-10 academic year, and since the beginning of the program, has awarded grants in excess of $1 million.
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