Winter 2014 Belle Ringer
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 1
From the
Editors
Greetings,
To use Oprah’s phase, one thing we know for sure is Bennett’s sisterhood is
alive and well and continues to grow stronger. Our theme for this issue is
“Reviving the Bennett Ideal.” We have witnessed your demonstration of the
“Bennett Ideal” through your contributions of your time, talent and treasures.
Your support of this institution that we all love so dearly is immeasurable.
During this holiday season and especially as we enter into the New Year, we
want to thank you for all that you do. Whether you work with us recruiting
students, raising scholarship dollars, supporting the annual fund, offering
suggestions for improvements or sending up prayers, we are grateful. We are
grateful for this bond of sisterhood that allows us to stand the test of time.
We hope you enjoy this issue of The Belle Ringer, full of Belle Notes, Chapter
Happenings, News from Bennett and wonderful photos from Alumnae
Weekend 2014 and President Fuse-Hall’s Inauguration Activities. Send us a
note and let us know what you think.
Always for Bennett,
Audrey and Wanda
Bennett Belles is an explosion ….
Signed prints are available for $60 each and can be ordered online at
www.bennett.edu, click online giving and follow the prompts. You may also
mail your checks to Alumnae Affairs, 900 East Washington Street,
Greensboro, NC 27401. For more information, call 336-517-2248.
Great as gifts! All proceeds
benefit student scholarships.
2015 Alumnae Class Reunion
Class Coordinators
Class coordinators have been assigned to assist with class activities.
If you know of any missing classmates or have ideas for fundraising,
please contact your coordinator or the Office of Alumnae Affairs.
1945
Alumnae Affairs Office
1950
Ouida Hodnett
Alumnae Affairs Office
1955
Fay Fagan, faylfagan@aol.com
1960
Willa Pullins Hawthorne
penny.hawthorne@sbcglobal.net
1965
Jean Bailey Braxton, jbbraxton@cox.net
1970
Veda Patrick, vedacook@juno.com
Elizabeth Patterson White, epwhite2014@yahoo.com
Winzell “Wendy” Neely, wneely@triad.rr.com
Dr. Hattie Carwell, hattie.carwell@att.net
Carolyn Silver, cjsil48@aol.com
Mischelle Thompson, mischelle121448@yahoo.com
1975
Yardley Nelson, expelliarmus@aol.com
Sheila Bennett Clemons, sclem14@aol.com
Carol Long Martin, cmartin8@triad.rr.com
Patricia Davis Thompson, mspatdavis@gmail.com
Jean Jackson, Jackson.1111@yahoo.com
Frankie Penn Powell, fpowell003@nc.rr.com
Ginger Bell, gbee40264@aol.com
1980
Kathy Crosby Wells, kathy.c@att.net
1985
Teresa Lipscomb, tlb1944@att.net
1990
Nichelle Gordon-Scott, ngordscott@aol.com
1995
Michelle Huff Elliott, michelle@huffent.com
Maisha El-Amin, melamin73@gmail.com
LaShena Sheffield Smith, lashena@lsmithassociates.com
Sandra Simpson, sps4mygood@gmail.com
2000
Pia Holland, pia.c.holland@gmail.com
Shae Anderson, shaealexis@gmail.com
Barika Barboza, barikab@hotmail.com
Shawndria Washington
Shaneik Issac, shaneik.isaac@hotmail.com
Delores Williams
Carla Gadson
Chassidy Moore, chassidy20@hotmail.com
2005
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Interim Vice President for Institutional
Advancement
Mrs. Audrey Demps Franklin ’72
Co-Editors
Audrey Demps Franklin ’72
Director of Alumnae Affairs
Wanda Edwards Mobley ’83
Director of Public Relations &
Communications
Contributing Writer
Theresa Bennett-Wilkes ’72
Photography
Howard Gaither
DeQuan Jones
Wanda Mobley
Office of Student Affairs
Student Affairs
DeQuan Jones
Graphic Artist
Sherry Poole Clark
Printer
Piedmont Printing
On the cover: Bennett Belles is an explosion of vivid hues. The top row represents the first four
graduates, clothed in their academic regalia. Gazing up at them are female family members wearing
stylish Thirties era hats. Dr. Fuse-Hall sits in the center surrounded by alumnae dressed in white, in
homage to traditional “White Breakfasts,” with student Belles looking up to her. The flanking alumnae
represent the Bearden Gates that launch graduates into the world. Dr. Fuse-Hall is the top of the
bell which is framed by a diverse gathering of current students. The bottom row represents future
generations of Bennett Belles, including the students at the Early/Middle College at Bennett.
CREDITS:
President
Rosalind Fuse-Hall, JD
Carah Herring, clbherring@gmail.com
Bennett College is accredited by the Southern Association
of Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur,
GA 30033, 404-679-4500, www.sacscoc.org; the National
Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education
(NCATE); and the Council on Social Work Education
(CSWE).
Bennett College prohibits discrimination on the basis of
race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, sexual
orientation, gender identity or expression, age or status
as a disabled veteran in admission, access to, treatment
of, or employment in its programs or activities.
2010
Jasmine Faison, jsfaison4@gmail.com
Tiffany Johnson, tiffany.ajohnson27@gmail.com
Denyqua Rodriquez
Tori Rice, toitwo@gmail.com
Bennett College is a United Methodist
Church-related institution.
Contents
2 The Sound of the Belle
3 A Salute to Sisterhood
4 The President’s Inaugural Address
8 Inauguration Activities
13 Class Reunion
15 Unsung Heroes
16 NAA Honorees
17 Alumnae Weekend
20 Belle Notes / Necrology
26 Chapter Happenings
27 Chapter Presidents/Chapter Giving
29 NAA Recipient Criteria 30 News from Bennett
32 Loyalty Form
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 3
The Sound of the Belle
Message from Deborah Love
A Salute to Sisterhood
December 19, 2014
Greetings my Sisters and Supporters of Bennett College,
My beloved Bennett Sister,
The theme for this year is “A Revival of the Bennett Ideal”! I don’t know about you, but every day that the Lord wakes me up, some part
of my life reflects our traditional song, “The Bennett Ideal”. I try to be the very best example of a “Bennett Ideal” in my dress, speech
and actions. I think about the many people who helped to shape my life at Bennett and who are still shaping my life today. I can honestly
say that not a day in my life goes by without thinking about, doing something for, or conversing with someone about our Alma Mater.
At this glorious time of year when we pause to reflect our multitude of blessings, what a great opportunity to
pause and again say THANKS for your support of our alma mater. Our contributions during 2014 exceeded
by $166,000 the goal of $800,000 set for us. “Bennett Ideals” are amazing. Recently, I asked you to send a
contribution on National Giving Day, December 2 (#Giving Tuesday). Once again you accepted the challenge
and responded to the Facebook, Twitter and email messages, and for that we are deeply grateful.
I want to thank you for your contributions to the Annual Fund. You so generously give of your time, talent and/or treasure. We continue
with our goal to raise one million dollars for this year. You will see various fund raising challenges throughout the year.
My sisters, Bennett challenged us to be transformational leaders. I know that many of us are leaders on our jobs; in our churches,
sororities, other organizations; and in our homes; however, our National Alumnae Association and our local Chapters are in great need
of leaders. I am appealing to you to serve. This is a National election year. Please submit your name as a candidate and commit to serve
if elected. The nomination information is found in this edition.
NAA President Deborah Tillman Love ’79 (far right) is joined by former NAA Presidents (L to R)
The Honorable Marion Benton Tasco ’60 (1971-1975); Bernice Johnson ’51 (1977-1979); Dr. Tressie Wright
Muldrow ’62 (1979-1985 & 1993-1997); Dr. Marion Lee Bell ’53 (2001-2005); Audrey Demps Franklin ’72
(2005-2009); and Dr. Lisa A. Johnson ’81 (2009-2013). Deborah Love also served as NAA President from
1989-1993.
Again, I want to thank you for your
participation and/or contributions
for the Inauguration events. All of
the events were outstanding! The
NAA’s very first Belle Ringer Award
was a great success! Not only were
we able to award six students with
scholarships, but one honoree,
Jacqueline Ford, announced that she
would provide a scholarship to her
student awardee until she graduates.
That announcement “brought the
house down”!!!!
We also celebrated the induction of our National Alumnae Presidents into the Presidential Hall of Fame. What an honor it was to stand
with a group of women such as Marian Tasco, Tressie Muldrow, Gladys Robinson, Bernice Johnson, Lisa Johnson, Marion Bell and
Audrey Franklin. Please join us for the unveiling of the Presidential Wall of Fame in the Alumnae House during Alumnae Weekend,
May 7-10, 2015.
Also, I encourage you to submit names of eligible alumnae for our Alumnae Awards. This criteria is also found in this edition of the
Belle Ringer.
Finally, the NAA is updating our Constitution and By-Laws. Revisions for review will only be sent to financial members.
Thank you for all that you do for our Alma Mater and students.
Have a glorious holiday season!
Now we are engaged in our 2015 campaign “We are Bennett Ideals.” Our goal is to raise our giving and
participation rate by at least 2.5%. During 2015, we will be leveraging the College’s social networks and your
personal Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. I am asking you to be Bennett Ideal Ambassadors and do
the following:
1. Commit to alma mater Bennett a pledge of $19.26 - $192.60 a month to total $1,926.00;
2. Review all your Bennett memories and post your favorite memory to Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using #1926 Challenge;
3. Ask five Bennett Belles to post their memories with their pledge of $19.26- $192.60 monthly;
4. Donate at www.bennett.edu (click “online giving”)
5. If you do not have a Social Network account, just send an email or call five Bennett sisters and ask them to make the $1926 pledge and send a favorite memory to the College.
6. You may use the enclosed envelope to mail your check directly to the Office of Alumnae Affairs.
All contributions are accepted and appreciated.
As you prepare for the celebrations that abound during this holiday season, remember that since 1926, young
women have found Bennett to be the “Ideal” place to foster the constant rhythm of ideas. We want this rhythm to
never waiver. Thank you for all you can and will do.
“Bennett Ideals” Securing the Legacy!
Blessings of the Holiday Season,
Tressie W. Muldrow ’62, Chair
NAA Fundraising Committee
Go with us throughout the years. Smile on us in doubts and fears;
Bless us with thy tender care, Mother, fairest of the fair!
Sisterly,
Deborah Tillman Love ’79, President
National Alumnae Association
2801 Kanawha Street, NW
Washington, DC 20015
muldro@starpower.net
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“REVIVING THE BENNETT IDEAL”
The Inaugural Address
September 27, 2014
To the presiding officer, Dr. Hope Williams, To our distinguished chair Mrs. Deborah Foster;
To the federal, state and locally elected officials;
To the former and current members of our Board of Trustees;
To members of the United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, the
Black College Fund and members of the reverend clergy;
To colleagues from other institutions of higher education and learned societies;
To the unwaveringly loyal Bennett Alumnae;
To the most committed faculty of Bennett College;
To the incredibly dedicated members of our staff; AND
To the currently enrolled students of Bennett College; the Early/Middle College at Bennett; and the Martin-Dixon
Intergenerational Center; AND to
Friends and Family,
Good AFTERNOON!
aving accepted the mace, medallion and robe representing the official symbols of the office as the 17th President of
Bennett College, it is my esteem privilege to accept this position! O what a difference a day makes! When I first sought
this position, I did not make it and while I could have shrank away and given up, instead I dedicated myself to adding
skills to my toolkit to ensure that if ever I got a second chance, I would be a worthy candidate. I am grateful to the
search committee and the Board of Trustees, who last April revived my candidacy and the Bennett Ideal began to unfold
before me.
But I did not get here alone. As you have heard, I have had some extraordinary mentors, womentors, brothers,
supporters, preachers, teachers, professors and a great number of “sho nuff sista-girlfriends that just made it plain!”
But most importantly, I have had my faith and that was buoyed by some individuals that you must meet. I have the
good fortune to have a birth family and a marriage family that seamlessly have supported me as long as they have known
me and I would ask them to stand and accept my sincere appreciation for all their love and prayers.
Some of you know that I have had health challenges, graduating from law school from a hospital bed. My life-saving
doctor is here. He gave me my second chance and I would ask him to stand and know how much I love you and
appreciate your brilliant work that has me here to proclaim I am a cancer survivor of 30 years!!! Dr. Leonard Prosnitz.
So I know that I have been revived for a purpose and that purpose was to be here for such a time as this! I was
revived not from this disease; but rather, I believe that I was revived for the purpose of taking this Long Walk that
my predecessors have all taken over the course of time. I must salute the courageous walk from Jones, Player, Miller,
Scott, Cole, Malveaux, and Terry. I am so pleased that four of those presidents have supported and advised me during
this initial year. They join us today and I would ask you to join me in an ovation of appreciation for their legacy of
leadership that has sustained this college over a generation of students!
H
Though it may have been hundreds of steps for the College to arrive here, this walk marks a momentous time that we
must seize!
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Most importantly, as we reflect upon
the 88 years of these hallowed halls,
we know that here is where women
entrust their hopes and build upon
their dreams of transforming themselves
from curious girls into competent
scholars; eager to improve their lives
and to assume positions of leadership
in her homes and in the world of their
respective professions. The advances of
women at this college have consistently
turned ideas about “her place in life”
on its side. Turn those eighty-eights
on their sides and you see the true
essence of Bennett College, infinity.
In the words of that modern wizard,
BuzzLightyear: “To infinity AND
BEYOND!!!”
History has provided a solid foundation
for us to transition across the vision of
its leaders and the legacy of leadership
that gave her solid footings. All these
leaders laid a foundation and built the
ethos that is the Bennett Ideal readied
to take on the future.
Can she actually make a
difference in the 21st century
as a college that educates
women and with a history
of serving exclusively African
Americans? Without a
doubt, Bennett College
was built to make
a difference and
she has made a
difference and
with all of our
assistance, she
is prepared
to make a
difference in
the future.
With the zeal
of a good old
Campfire
revival,
Bennett
College
and her
scholars are
ready to lead throughout this global
society.
In the vernacular of today’s youth, this
administration’s mantra is #Bennett
Builds…We will build upon the
cornerstones of the strategic plan
approved by the Board of Trustees in
2012. Global Acumen, Leadership,
Communications, and Entrepreneurial
Prowess are the four focal areas for us to
strengthen and enhance. Building upon
these four focal areas, we will move into
building the Bennett Ideal for this next
chapter of the College.
STRATEGIC FOCAL AREAS:
Bennett College understands that the
cataclysmic shift from our historical
past to our infinite potential rests
squarely with our work in the world as
a global neighbor that welcomes others.
Nelson Mandela said: “If you talk to
a man in a language he understands,
that goes to his head. If you talk to
him in his language, that goes to his
heart.” That compassionate approach
is a component of the Bennett
Ideal that we want to build
the GLOBAL ACUMEN among our
faculty, staff, and students. We have
begun and it is already underway at the
college in tangible ways:
• Our unique global studies program
builds upon our “global approach” to
bring native speakers to immerse not
only our students but our neighbors
in the languages of the future, namely,
Mandarin, Arabic, Swahili, and soon
Portuguese as we prepare to assume
positions in the BRIC countries where
job growth will occur.
• Our faculty members are engaging
with their colleagues. For example, Dr.
Sara Wrenn was accepted to participate
in the Sixth International Conference
on Psychology Education (ICOPE)
International Partnership Program for
2014-2015. She attended the ICOPE6
Conference in Flagstaff, AZ, in August
working with another colleague, Dr.
Sherri McCarthy from NAU-Yuma,
Former Presidents (R to L) Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole,
Dr. Julianne Malveaux, and Dr. Gloria R. Scott
joined Dr. Rosalind Fuse-Hall for the Investiture
Ceremony.
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 7
developing plans to incorporate global
content, perspectives, and experiences
into her classes over the coming year.
• Our students have plunged into this
global approach such as Amra Marshall,
a Mellon Scholar, who studied with
peers from around the world in the
nation’s capital; but, emailing her
South African roommate throughout
the year and by the summer’s end
introduced some of her Bennett sisters
to this roommate in her native South
Africa. Building these types of lasting
friendships are what used to occur
at summer camps with people from
surrounding counties…now, Bennett
Belles are creating these friendships
around the world.
• And this is not limited to our students,
we want to foster and encourage our
staff for global exchanges as well. Mrs.
Andrena Coleman submitted one of
her story quilts in a juried international
competition honoring the life of Nelson
Mandela. Her quilt was selected and
is on a traveling exhibit around the
world, building international acclaim to
Bennett College and Greensboro.
• We need to continue to edify these
opportunities for our faculty, student
and staff scholars.
• Cutting-edge, innovative and
contemporary work builds global
acumen among all study and work at
this College.
LEADERSHIP
Since the days of Dr. Willa Player,
leadership has been a critical component
of the Bennett Ideal. It was understood
that each entering class has a moral
duty to build her leadership skills by
accepting those positions that her sisters
compel her to seek.
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• Study after study documents that the most enduring benefit of women’s colleges
is the leadership opportunities that not only avail themselves to her students; but,
these colleges instill leadership deeply in her nature. The depth and breathe of
opportunities are transfused into her being and becomes a natural attribute of
her graduates. Bennett College is no different from her sister women’s colleges.
Leadership becomes as natural as breathing in and out for Bennett Belles. And,
they become the confident leaders, letting their advocacy for issues of importance
ring in the halls of government for social change.
• You know these leaders:
• Mrs. Francis Jones, daughter of President Dallas Jones who in 1937 led a protest against the inequitable roles of women depicted in films;
• Dr. Queen Bell (’43), Bennett faculty member and civic leader;
• Dr. Joyce Martin Dixon (’56), she and her husband were federal contractors with NASA and philanthropist;
• Dr. Esther Terry (’61), 16th president and the 1st alumna to serve in that capacity;
• The Honorable Yvonne Johnson (’64), the first African American Mayor of Greensboro and currently the Mayor pro tempore;
• The Honorable Gladys Robinson (’71), state senator;
• Dr. Veita Bland (’74), physician and syndicated health care columnist;
• Chaundra Luckett (’06), TV news producer, Fox Carolina; and
• Nezile Nonjabulo Mthembu (’11), Rhodes Scholar finalist.
• Need I say more, Bennett Women are serious about leadership and confidently
assumes these roles.
These women represent various components of the Bennett Ideal and illustrates the
evolution of that ideal. A stanza in the Bennett Ideal says:
You’ve heard it said, she’s a girl who is well-bred
For her college she’ll stand any test; Her motto is skill,
Her creed is good will, And here’s how you know her best;
If she smiles through thick and thin, she’s the Bennett Ideal
If she strives wholeheartedly to win, She’s the Bennett Ideal
If she’s honest and willing to share,
If she’s eager to do and to dare.
Pep and vitality, Sweet personality;
She’s the Bennett Ideal.
COMMUNICATIONS
Years ago, she was the hat and gloved ingénue that quietly did good in her home
and in her community. Today, her locks may fly freely in the wind and she attends
to the needs of others by exceeding the required 80 hours of community service for
graduation because she sees a need and wants to address it. She is an innovative
creative thinker using the modes of the future, social media to inspire others.
Students like Justine Ryan, who last year spent a semester at sea visiting 12
countries aboard a ship while maintaining academic excellence. But, that’s not
why I point her out. She also created a blog HBCUGOGLOBAL to encourage
her fellow peers attending HBCUs to reach beyond their comfort level and travel
abroad, remain open to new ideas, experiences and cultures. Living out the words
of Nelson Mandela to speak in one’s
own language — social media — thus
speaking to one’s heart.
ENTREPRENEURIAL PROWESS
Bennett College is poised to infuse
entrepreneurial concepts across our
curriculum. This is so appropriate
when you think of the business history
of Greensboro, where we have and
continue to nurture family owned
business. Best known are the Cones
with Cone Mills that then evolved into
the medical field. The Bryan family as
well as the Armfields.
In Bennett’s early days, nationally
prominent men and women such
as Lyman Bennett, Mr. and Mrs.
Henry Pfeiffer, the Carnegies, the
Phelps-Stokes Fund, the John F. Slater
Fund, and the Julius Rosenwald Fund
provided significant gifts to advance
the college and its curriculum. Not
to mention the consistent support
from the United Negro College Fund
with which this college was a charter
member, and the United Methodist
Church as well as the Women’s Home
Missionary Society and the United
Methodist Women. Local and national
support catapulted this young college
— as a women’s college — into a
position of distinction. Over the years,
with the transition from segregation
to integration to the current period
of information technology, Bennett
College has survived and thrived due to
these enduring partnerships.
From an entrepreneurial perspective,
this administration will continue
to build upon these long-standing
relationships as well as create new ones
to ensure that innovative and creative
programs prepare our graduates for the
jobs needed in the workforce.
We are excited about partnerships
with Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo
that will merge in-class theories with
practical experiences in the work
environment, creating professionals
that are well-versed and grounded in
President Fuse-Hall exits the Chapel after the Investiture Ceremony with First Gentleman Jarvis Hall
and First Daughter Ifetoya Mandelisa Hall.
the business needs of these corporate partners. Moreover, the combination of our
entrepreneurship minor and major with other disciplines such as social work or
journalism and media studies, will equip our graduates with those broad based
skills that future jobs are seeking in potential employees.
Also, the TRIAD area needs to retain more of its college graduates in this region.
This region has been identified as the most creative class in the nation. Bennett
College will become a member of this regional recruitment team by augmenting
our Arts Management major with an entrepreneurial minor, offering our student
an entry into the entertainment industry in a manner that will assist the cultural
communities with sound business practices and reduce the idea of the “starving
artist.” Our partnership with Synthia SAINT JAMES, a renowned artist known
for her business sense of the arts as well as her talent as a painter, ensures that our
graduates can handle the business element of the fine arts. Because that type of
innovative ingenuity is what the contemporary Bennett Ideal embodies.
Oh, and by the way, this arts management will also operate with the SMASHED
UP approach of futurists. Namely, we will merge the foundational aspects of
science, technology, engineering, the ARTS, and mathematics to create STEAM…
it is still is one of the energies that creates movement.
In closing, let me assure you that Bennett College is present and poised for the
future. From the faculty, staff, students to this president, we will collectively
engage in the evolutionary process of addressing the needs of this city, the region,
the nation as well as our global allies. That’s a grand vision for this little place;
well; we might be little in size. Our ideal is symbolized at the top of this building.
This chapel was built on the highest point at the time and atop was placed “The
Spire.” Many call it a steeple; but, history notes that it was known as “The Spire.”
It is above us and it could and can be seen from all points on campus. It was
perfectly placed in our past and over the years continues to give us direction.
I challenge everyone to look at the Bennett Spire and understand that she speaks to
us to ASPIRE to be the best in all that we do and to remember that size does not
matter, that in all we do our job is to INSPIRE others to excel, too! So don’t look
down on us as an HBCU, A women’s college, a relics of days gone by….Look up
and ASPIRE AND INSPIRE cause Bennett Belles do all things well!
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 9
A
Revival
of the
BENNETT
IDEAL
The Inaugural
Activities Celebrating the
Investiture of
Dr. Rosalind Fuse-Hall,
17th President of
Bennett College
A fabulous week of fun, fellowship,
food, and breath-taking surprises
encompassed the investiture
of Dr. Rosalind Fuse-Hall as the
seventeenth president of Bennett
College. Activities for the week
included: Community Day, The Belle
Ringer Luncheon & Unveiling of the
Bennett Belles print, Opening of the
Synthia SAINT JAMES Art Exhibit,
Social Activism ACES, Miss Bennett
College Coronation, Investiture
Ceremony, True Blue Scholarship
Gala, and Founders’ Day. Enjoy the
following photo montage.
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Reunion
1954
1949
1939
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1959
1964
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1994
1969
Class
Reunion
2004
1974
1999
1979
2014 Unsung Heroines
1984
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1989
(L to R) Greensboro Chapter, Olivia Penn-Carter ’78; Eastern North Carolina Chapter, Sarah Sharpe ’87; Southern California Chapter,
Helen Francis Liley ’57; Metro Washington, DC Chapter, Bianca Williams Mitchell ’98; Metro Atlanta Chapter, Gwendolyn Walker ’83; and
Durham Chapter, Miji Bell ’92
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 17
Alumnae Weekend 2014
“Celebrating the Legacy of Excellence”
Photo Montage
Ellease Randall Colston Service Award
Bernice I. Johnson ’51
The President’s Award
Johanna H. Polanen ’61
2014 NAA
Award Recipients
Young Alumnae Award
Brandy Alexandria Jones Osimokun ’00
Achievement Award
Janzlean Laughinghouse ’96, Ph.D.
Friend of Bennett Award
Dr. David C. Pinnix
Faculty Service Award
Dr. Valerie Ann Johnson
Staff Service Award
Ebony Kendrick
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Belle Notes
Dr. Juanita Patience Moss ’54,
spoke at the African American Civil
War Museum in Washington, DC,
speaking on the topic, Forgotten Black
Soldiers Who Served in White Regiments
During the Civil War. She hosted a
book signing afterwards. Juanita is
also preparing to publish the third
edition of Tell Me Why.
Hideko Tamura-Snider ’56, was
appointed Ambassador of Peace for the
City of Hiroshima.
Roslyn Smith ’61, is the recipient
of The International Civil Rights
Center & Museum’s (ICRCM) Sit-In
Participants award. While a student
at Bennett, Roslyn was very vocal
and visible in the call for justice and
participated in the Woolworth lunch
counter sit-in protests. She will
be honored during ICRCM’s 55th
Anniversary Gala on January 31,
2015.
Jean Blair Howard ’64, is embarking
on a familiar journey. Eight years
after she officially left her role as CEO
of Wilson Commencement Park,
Howard is rejoining the organization
in that same role. She assumed the
leadership on Sept. 22nd. The first
CEO named after the Park was
founded, Howard spent 15 years
guiding and growing the agency as
it pursued its mission to provide
single-parent families with affordable
housing, training and support to
become self-sufficient. After leaving
her position in 2006, Howard served
as Chief of Staff for Mayor Robert
Duffy from 2006-2010, then as CEO
of GJ Howard Consulting since 2010.
Dr. Jean Braxton Bailey ’65, was
honored with the title of Dean/
22 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
Professor Emeritus from Norfolk State
University.
Dr. Joyce Dunn Garrett ’65, was
honored by The Hampton
University Ministers’ Conference.
They presented Garrett with the
Roland Carter Living Legend
Award. The award was given to two
outstanding persons or institutions for
their direct or indirect contributions
to the betterment of church music,
church music programs, and/or for
their achievements in the realm of
composition and/or performance
opportunities in church music.
Co-founder and President
Andrea Harris ’70, has decided to
transition from her current role to
Senior Fellow of the NCIMED.
Harris informed the Board late last
year of her interest in taking on a
new role within the organization,
shaping its public policy direction.
The move comes after 28 years of
outstanding service to NCIMED,
26 years at its helm. Under Harris’
leadership, in the past decade alone,
NCIMED has provided consulting
and technical assistance to nearly
11,000 companies and trained nearly
28,000 business people. Companies
receiving NCIMED assistance have
been awarded more than $256
million in contracts, completed
nearly $197 million in financial
transactions and created more than
2,100 jobs. Her achievements have
garnered Harris numerous awards,
including the 2012 Abe Venable
Award for Lifetime Achievement
from the U.S. Department of
Commerce Minority Business
Development Agency (MBDA) and,
more recently, the Triangle Business
Journal’s Leaders in Diversity Award,
independent of instruction and is not
afraid to take charge. Once Queen
accepts a challenge, there is never a
presented earlier this month. In her
new role, Harris will develop a nonpartisan think tank that advocates
for the success of diverse businesses
as critical to the sustainable
growth of communities, the workforce
and the economy.
Joan Yvette Davis ’72, was selected to
become the new chancellor of
concern/worry that the task will not be
accomplished fully and qualitatively.”
She was nominated by the Detroit
Inter-Alumni Council of UNCF.
Glenda King Pittman ’83, received
her Master of Public Administration/
Government Finance and Information
Technology. She is currently working
as a Finance and Information Systems
Chief.
Delgado Community College in New
Orleans. Davis was the unanimous
choice of the 17-member board of the
Louisiana Community and Technical
College System, which announced the
selection at a meeting in Baton Rouge.
She earned an undergraduate degree in
English from Bennett and a law degree
from the University of Alabama. She
previously worked as chief executive
officer for the Alabama Technology
Network, which provides workforcedevelopment training and assistance.
For more than nine years, she served
as legal counsel to the Alabama State
Board of Education.
Queen Simpson ’75, received
the Distinguished Volunteer
Award presented by the American
Fundraising Professionals on their
National Philanthropy Day in Detroit,
Michigan. According to the write up,
“Simpson is one of the most dedicated
and dependable volunteers that UNCF
has had for the past 35 years. She
volunteers freely, is organized,
timely and accurate, operates
Dr. Valerie Callender ’82, has been
elected President of the Women’s
Dermatologic Society (WDS) and
a member of the Board of Directors.
Dr. Callender joined WDS January
of 1991 and since 2004, has chaired
multiple service events for WDS’s
national sun-safety campaign, “Play
Safe in the Sun,” conducting free skin
cancer screenings for event participants
and the public. She also organized
local community service events
through the WDS Coast-to-Coast
and Dove Self-Esteem programs. Dr.
Callender’s contributions to WDS
also include serving as the WDS
Secretary from 2010-2013, Board
of Directors 2006-2013, WDS
Fundraising Committee Co-Chair
from 2011-2013, WDS Long Range
Planning Committee Chair from
2013-2014, and mentoring several
dermatologic residents through the
WDS Mentorship Award Program.
Currently there are approximately
1,500 national and international
members while the numbers rise daily.
Dr. Callender is an internationally
recognized Board Certified
Dermatologist, who is known for her
sensitive and cutting-edge approach to
management of hair loss in women,
the treatment of pigmented disorders
and is also a prolific contributor to
the dermatology literature. She has
co-edited a textbook on Treatment
for Skin of Color and has written 18
textbook chapters and more than 45
peer-reviewed articles for academic
journals. She is the medical director
of the Callender Dermatology &
Cosmetic Center, which combines
medical and surgical dermatology,
clinical research, medical skin care,
and aesthetics procedures in a relaxing
spa environment. Dr. Callender
received her medical degree from
Howard University, where she also did
her residency and currently serves as
an Associate Professor of Dermatology.
Theresia Snellings ’83, (BS, MBA,
MPM, MT-ASCP) is a Health
Scientist at the Center for Disease
Control. She has over 20 years
of clinical laboratory experience
in multiple areas, and in multiple
positions from bench tech, senior
tech, education coordinator, to
management. Theresia has trained a
vast number of professionals such as
communicable disease specialists, lab
assistants, phlebotomists, laboratorians
and nurses in laboratory technique,
good laboratory practices and
regulatory guidelines. As a former
State Agency CLIA Director, Theresia
directed a program of laboratory
surveyors, who monitored federal
certification, and state licensure
laboratory facilities. She participated
in the development and revision of
rules and regulations governing the states’ laboratory facilities.
Enforcement of regulatory rules and
guidelines as well as training end-users
on the need for compliance was
her main focus. Theresia developed
the good laboratory practices for
waived testing “READY SET
TEST “online training course. She
is currently involved in CLIAC
meeting preparation, distribution and
promotion of LPSB training materials
and the online training course, as
well as the development of a booklet
for Individual Quality Control Plans
(IQCP)
Liz Thomas-Sahr Berry ’84,
received her Master of Education in
Curriculum from the University of
Phoenix. She is a special education
teacher/specialist with the DC Public
School System.
Florentia Spires ’85, a native of the
DC metropolitan area, is a STEM
Curriculum Developer and Educator
of 6th, 7th and 8th graders at the
Howard University Middle School
of Mathematics and Science. She
served as the National Society of
Black Engineers (NSBE) advisor for
the students, educating them about
engineering disciplines and taking
them to attend the culminating
national NSBE convention. She
is a Triangle Coalition for STEM
Education 2013-2014 Albert Einstein
Fellow at the National Science
Foundation in the Division of
Computer and Information Science
and Engineering (CISE) in the
Computer Network Systems (CNS)
Division.
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 23
Lisa Lunsford ’86, a chemistry major
while at Bennett, is an outstanding
Bennett Belle from Detroit!! Lisa,
CEO and co-founder of Global
Strategic Solutions LLC (GS3 Global)
and her company were nominated as
a finalist for the Michigan Supplier
Development Council’s 2014 Minority
Supplier of the Year Award.
The award recognizes outstanding
achievements among Minority
Business enterprises (MBE’s) in
business growth, development and
operations. In addition to leading
GS3, Lunsford is also the vice
president of sales and marketing for
Deshler Group, GS3 Global’s parent
company, and executive partner and
co-founder of I Thine LLC, a software
development company. Her experience
includes a decade as a research and
product development engineer at
Ford Motor Company where her
first project was the 1988 Mustang.
Lunsford ended her time at Ford
after working on the 1996 Ford F150
truck platform. Lunsford is quoted as
saying “One reason I started a business
is that I wanted to provide a means
for people to feed their families. I
believe in job creation. That’s key to
America, to everybody. On shoring is
about manufacturing and information
technology. It’s about putting America
back to work.”
Adonica Smith Williams ’91,
received her Master of Business
Administration from Winston-Salem
State University. She currently works
as the Grants Administrator at North
Carolina A&T State University.
24 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
Jen-Ai Childress ’94, has authored
two books, “London Giselle Hall
presents My Beautiful Mommy” and
“Kids Wear Pink Too” inspired by a
four-year old little girl who is losing
her mother to breast cancer. The hope
is that both books will help other
children sort out their feelings and
learn to cope with the deadly disease
known as cancer. The books will serve
as a catalyst to jump start a non-profit
organization with the same name that
will assist the needs of children whose
parent(s) are battling cancer. More
information about this project can
be found at www.crowdrise.com/
childrenandcancer or you can also
visit http://musabooksllc.wix.com/
kidswearpinktoo
This fall, Jennifer Farris’ ’96 work
will be seen on two major TV network
shows: BET’s “Being Mary Jane” &
NBC’s “Constantine”. On both
shows, she serves as the location scout
and has scouted for other films and
television through street promotions,
direct marketing, publicity,
journalism, broadcast production,
and most recently, content creation.
Her clients throughout the years have
ranged from the Atlanta Office of
Cultural Affairs, FunkJazz Kafé Arts
& Music Festival and The Atlanta
Ballet to Woodridge Productions for
Sony Pictures Television and New
Remote Productions Inc. for MTV
Networks. Tagged by her colleagues as
’the research renegade’, because of her
ability to swiftly locate treasures and
information, she credits her ability to
garner quick results [under pressure]
to her decade-plus career in the arts
and entertainment business where
’Make It Happen…Yesterday’ was
a daily mantra. She was named one
of Atlanta’s ’Top 25 Most Influential
Women in Atlanta’ by Rolling Out
Urbanstyle Weekly. While at Bennett,
Farris reigned as ’Miss Bennett
College’. In addition to her BA from
Bennett, she earned a Master’s Degree
from the University of South Carolina
in Columbia, SC.
Dr. Porcia Ewing ’97, received her
Doctorate of Chiropractic from Texas
Chiropractic College. She is the owner
of Ewing Chiropractic LLC located in
Morrow, GA.
Dr. Jenora Waterman ’97, has made
one key discovery toward improving
the Department of Animal Sciences
at North Carolina Agricultural and
Technical State University. COPD
is a major cause of death in the
United States, most typically found
among smokers. A less studied aspect
of the disease is the 7% of its U.S.
victims who are agricultural workers.
They can develop COPD as a result
of long-term exposure to animal
production facilities containing dust
that contributes to respiratory diseases.
Jenora’s first key finding came from
comparing pigs raised indoors with
those raised outdoors. Pigs aren’t as
severely affected by the dust as humans
are, but her work demonstrated that
their respiratory systems are uniquely
adapted to their housing type. Dr.
Waterman will take that step as an
NC TraCS K-Scholar, a professional
development honor for junior faculty
members funded through the Clinical
and Translational Science Awards
(CTSA) program of the National
Institutes of Health. She will receive
funding for her research and mentored
training for three years. Dr. Waterman
is the director of the Respiratory
Biology and Toxicology Laboratory at
A&T. She was a United Negro College
Fund Scholar at Bennett, where she
earned her B.S. degree in biology,
magna cum laude. She taught at Page
Senior High School in Greensboro
before receiving her master’s in
biology from N.C. A&T. Her Ph.D.
in functional genomics is from N.C.
State University.
Monique Hunt ’99, a licensed Master
Social Worker in New York, was on
TV series as well. Jennifer
transitioned from entertainment
public relations back into film and
television which was the basis of her
Mass Communications studies while
at Bennett. Farris, a culture enthusiast,
has since the 90’s, educated audiences
about nationally-recognized creative
arts projects surrounding music,
public art, dance, visual art, film and
the treatment of chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD) among
agricultural workers, and now she’s
been accepted into a prestigious career
development program to advance
her research. Jenora is an assistant
professor of functional genomics in
campus as a guest for the Office
of Career Services. Hunt had the
opportunity to visit with students and
share her life’s journey. Hunt is the
recipient of the Hip Hop 4 Life
“Women of Inspirational Award,”
which recognizes extraordinary
commitment to empowering women
and girls.
Starr Allen-Pettaway ’99, has
founded Sisters Standing Strong
Together in Detroit, Michigan. This
is a sponsorship based program that
provides a variety of community
based services to women confronted
with everyday life struggles including
but not limited to parenting issues,
substance abuse, domestic violence,
finances, among a host of other
barriers that may be hindering their
success. Sisters Standing Strong
Together, earnestly works to ensure
that all women have the tools to win.
They provide mentorship/sponsorship
services, therapeutic services offered by
a licensed social worker, training and
education, support groups, coupled
with other interventions to ensure
success. Their mission is to provide
women in the Detroit Metropolitan
area and around the globe, an
opportunity to be successful with
the necessary support and guidance,
working together to make their dreams
a reality
Neda Brown ’01, was promoted to
Acting Deputy Chief of Mission for
the United States Embassy Nassau,
Bahamas.
Jessika Caldwell ’03, has been
accepted into the Peace Corps and will
be stationed in Uganda. She will be
trained as an education volunteer and
will live and work in a community as
a primary education teacher trainer,
assisting primary schools as well as the
teacher’s college on the best ways to
teach and learn English. Jessika joins
the 204 North Carolina residents
currently serving in the Peace Corps
and more than 3,984 North Carolina
residents who have served since 1981.
Christinia Y. Johnson ’05, is a
Project Manager (Civil Engineer) at
AmerCom Engineering Consulting
Firm in New Jersey. Christinia received
her BS in Mathematics from Bennett
and her MS in Civil Engineering from
North Carolina A&T State University.
Dr. Ashlee Goodman ’06, graduated
from Case Western Reserve University
in May 2013. While there, she was a
National Health Service Corporation
Scholar receiving a full academic
scholarship to dental school. She also
received a partial scholarship from
Case Western Alumni allowing her to
have 120% of her education funded.
She was the 1st Student National
Dental Association (SNDA) President
of the Case Western Chapter. She
organized the first SNDA at Case
mission trip to Jamaica where they
provided dental care to over 500
families. She also started the first
SNDA at Case mentoring program,
where they mentored high school
and college students, and educated
them on “what it takes to get into
dental school.” Following graduation,
Goodman was accepted into a General
Practice Residency in Cleveland,
Ohio which she completed June
2014. Currently, she is working
Melbourne, Florida, providing service
through clinics and mobile units and
helping bridge the gap in access to
dental care. She is passionate about
providing exceptional dental care to
underrepresented populations. Her
future aspirations include opening her
own chain of dental clinics.
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 25
D. Cherie Lofton ’06, Operations
Manager for WNAA-FM at N.C.
A&T State University, was honored
by WBLS’ Café Mocha Radio
during The Salute Her: Superwomen
Making A Difference Brunch and
Award Ceremony. Among the other
honorees were Publicist Simone
Smalls; Sister 2 Sister Magazine
Founder Jamie Foster Brown; Author,
Blogger & Blood Sweat and Heels
Star Demetria Lucas; International
Journalist Lola Ogunnaike; Children’s
Advocate Evelyn Mejil; Daughter
of Malcolm X, Ilyasah Shabazz;
Real Housewives of Atlanta Star
and Model Cynthia Bailey; and
Legendary Singer Gloria Gaynor. The
honorees were recognized for their
accomplishments and contributions
that personify their vision to inspire
a network of change. Find out more
about the event at: http://jwpvoice.
blogspot.com/2014/06/cafe-mochahonors-superwomen.html
Chaundra Luckett ’06, has been
promoted to Executive Producer of
Fox 5, Atlanta’s weekend newscast.
Faith Current Allen ’06, is the owner
of The Current Group a Vocational
Case Management Firm located in
Fayetteville, NC. She also has just
opened Blush Bridal. Faith received
her MBA from High Point University.
Dr. Erica Judge ’07, graduated from
Meharry Medical School in May
Dr. Sharrelle Barber ’07, completed
her doctoral studies in Social
Epidemiology at the Harvard
University School of Public Health.
Her dissertation focused on examining
how disadvantaged neighborhoods
impact the cumulative disease risk
of African-American adults living in
Jackson, Mississippi.
Attorney Tiffany Lindsay ’08, has
been accepted to Duke University’s
26 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
Jennine A. Daniels ’11, received
her Master of Science in Public
Communications. She currently works
as an analyst for the Department of
State.
Tonisha Coburn ’11, is a High
School Science teacher in Durham,
North Carolina. Tonisha received
her Master’s in Biology from North
Carolina A&T State University.
School of Divinity. She graduated
from Howard University School of
Law May 2011. Following graduation
she secured a job at the Prince
George’s County State’s Attorney
Office.
Jessica McClain ’08, received her
Master of Science in Biology from
North Carolina A&T State University.
She currently works as a teacher at
Allen Middle School in Guilford
County.
Aziza Jackson ’09, serves as the first
ever Public Information Officer in
Anniston, Alabama.
Dianne Wellington ’10, received her
Master of Science in African-American
& English Literature from North
Carolina A&T State University. She
currently works as a teacher at the
Academy at Smith in Guilford County
and as an Adjunct Professor at North
Carolina A&T State University.
2013. She is currently a Resident
Physician at the University of Florida
in Gainesville, FL.
Khadijah Dargan ’10, is a graduate
of Marymount University where
she received her Master of Science
in Human Resources. She currently
works for the Department of State as a
Human Resources Specialist.
Denyqua Rodriquez ’10, graduated
from North Carolina Central
University School. She graduated with
her Juris Doctorate and a Master’s in
Business Administration.
Charnee Pearson-Starling ’11,
is currently pursuing her Master
of Science in Biology from North
Carolina A&T State University.
This summer she had an internship
at the University of Texas studying
Computational Evolutionary
Biology.
Tarshai Peterson ’11, graduated
from New York University with
her Master of Arts in Educational
Theatre.
Candyce Roberts ’11, graduated
from Drexel University with her
Master of Science in
Myeisha Essex ’11, was a guest on Dr.
Marc Lamont Hill’s show on Huffpost
Live. She spoke on the petition to end
the show “Sorority Sisters” which is
being produced by Mona Scott-Young,
creator of reality TV shows such as
Love & Hip Hop.
Belles Carmen Smith ’11, Jayne
Walton ’11, Briana Barner ’11,
Evette Brown ’11, and Myeisha
Essex ’11 teamed up to produce
an online publication “Nice
Entertaining Magazine”. http://www.
niceentertaining.com/2014/07/01/
nice-entertaining-summer-2014-issue/
Subscribe today!
Katherine Parker ’11, graduated
from Clark Atlanta University with
her Master of Public Administration.
She intends to work in the community
and economic development field,
working to create and sustain
development projects. She aspires
to one day become a City/County
Manager.
Iymaani Walker ’11, was hired as the
Customer Care and Communications
Coordinator for Information Builders
in New York. She works with the
Marketing Department designing
websites for local and virtual user
forums.
Keyona Smith ’12, graduated from
the University of Arkansas with her
Master of Science in Kinesiology.
Evette Brown ’12, received her
Masters from Southern Illinois
University-Carbondale where
she studied Women, Gender and
Sexuality Studies.
Shaakira Jones ’12, has been hired
as a Graphic Designer/Editorial
Intern for Sister2Sister Magazine.
Aziza Harding ’12, graduated
from New York University with her
Master of Arts in Media, Culture and
Communications.
Tatiana Walker ’12, graduated from
Columbia University with her Master
of Arts in Developmental Psychology.
She has secured a position as a 6th
grade Special Education Teacher at
Bronx Alliance Middle School.
Communications with a
concentration in Public Relations.
Jasmine Snead ’11, has been hired
as Promotions Director for Q94 and
106.5 The Beat in Richmond, VA.
Tatenda Mujeni ’11, received her
Master of Science in Public Health
from Columbia University.
Jamesia Wright ’11, is a Program
Assistant/Job Coach at the Cleveland
Sight Center. She recently received
her MSSA from Case Western
Reserve University in Community
Practice for Social Change.
Ashley Conway ’11, is the new
cohost of “The Mixx Up” a radio
show produced by http://blis.fm/
Nicole Miller ’11, has been accepted
to Methodist University to pursue a
degree in Kinesiology.
Hope Kendall ’13, was hired by
Allegacy Federal Credit Union
as a Peak-Time Member Services
Representative.
Briana Stubbs ’13, was hired to
work at The CW television station.
Cherie Johnson ’13, graduated
from New York University with her
Master of Arts in Early Childhood
Education and Special Education.
She is a lead teacher at The Learning
Experience in Edison, NJ.
Marie Clapp Moffitt ’34
Mary Jackson Chavis ’40
Hattie Vertelle Mason ’41
Laura Johnson ’42
Edith Ike Hicks ’46
Mary Louise Foster ’48
Margaret Ann Boatwright
Anderson ’49
Eleanor Barnwell ’49
Hattie Russell Darden ’49
Josephine Hobbs Heughan ’50
Odessa Jeffries ’50
Clarice Thompson ’50
Birdie Simpson ’51
Mary Pierce Reese ’51
Laverne Chavis Goin ’52
Yvonne Ireland Hankins ’55
Mayme J. Ellerbe Cannady ’57
Betty McLean Sellars ’58
Gloria Cumbo Brizant ’58
Frances Thurston Brooks ’58
Gwendolyn Bell Gordon ’60
Eunice Hawkins Butler ’61
Iva Elizabeth Baker Smith ’63
Pensal Winston McCray ’63
Christine Moseby Suggs ’64
Sadie Alford Bennett ’64
Diane Carnes ’74
Cynthia Booker ’78
Gladys Foster ’88
Rochelle Williams ’89
Janada Randall ’14, was hired
by Laurel Advocacy and Referral
Services Incorporated as their
Transitional Housing Case Manager/
Employment Specialist.
“Til the evening shadows fall, til we heed
our last clear call, Mother, may we offer
thee – lives of worth and purity.”
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 27
Chapter
Happenings & Fundraisers
The Raleigh Chapter attended the
Garner Road College Fair to assist with
recruiting efforts and worked the NC
State Fair raising money for their annual
scholarship fund.
Dana Jones and Joyce Valentine
CHAPTERS
BENNETT COLLEGE NATIONAL
ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION
Bennett College
National Alumnae Association
Winston-Salem Chapter
Bennett Belles Elegant Blown Glass
Beaded Handcrafted Jewelry Set
(No Closures – Stretch
Material for Easy Wear)
PRICE: $50
(plus $5 shipping & handling)
(Order yours today – while
LIMITED supplies last)
Go to: www.winstonsalemnaabcw.
myevent.com
Executive Committee and Chapter Presidents
P. O. Box 20321 • Greensboro, NC 27420
The Western North Carolina
Chapter hosted the “Dinner, Jazz &
More Fundraiser.” Linda McDaniel,
Ernestine Shade, Doris Fullwood
and Cherry Dula attended the
event.
CLASS OF 1975 FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
We are all aware that the future of
HBCUs continues to be in jeopardy
as they struggle to meet financial
obligations. The meager support
from alumnae and endowments,
inadequate infrastructure and
faculty and student retention makes
it difficult for HBCUs to compete
with other institutions.
You can purchase this lovely Bennett
College Scarf. All proceeds will go
towards the Class of 1975’s gift in
2015.
FRONT
BACK
RISE UP AND TOGETHER
LET’S BE THE DIFFERENCE!
To purchase a scarf, email
lsprott@bellsouth.net or
gbee40264@aol.com
True to thee while life shall last.
Class of ’75: Ginger Bell – Fundraising Manager | Shirlene McCoy Norde – Fundraising Treasurer | LaRita Sprott – Fundraising Secretary
28 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
Mrs. Brenda Morgan Nicholson ’69
bmnicker@aol.com
COASTAL CAROLINA,
VICE PRESIDENT
NORTH CAROLINA
Mrs. Nichelle Gordon Scott ’90
Ms. Renee R. Purvis ’85
ngordscott@aol.com
msnicet@yahoo.com
RECORDING SECRETARY
Ms. Brooke Walker ’94 NEW ENGLAND
Ms. Lensley Gay ’75
ladyvenoms@yahoo.com
lensL9@aol.com
FINANCIAL SECRETARY
DELAWARE VALLEY
Ms. Queen Simpson ’75
Elizabeth Van Beverhoudt ’88
qcsimp@ameritech.net
dvbcaa@gmail.com
Mrs. Audrey Demps Franklin ’72
DETROIT, MICHIGAN
Director of Alumnae Affairs
Mrs. Sandra Philpott-Burke ’70
900 E. Washington Street
sphilpottburke@yahoo.com
Greensboro, NC 27401
(336) 517-2247 – Office
DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA
(336) 5817-2248 – alternate
Dr. Bernadette G. Watts ’71
(336) 517-2244 – fax
watts.bernadette@gmail.com
afranklin@bennett.edu
NORTH JERSEY
Ms. Samantha Dow ’97
Samantha_dow08@yahoo.com
NJBelles@msn.com
EASTERN CAROLINA
Ms. Sarah B. Sharpe ’87
brodiesheppard1@yahoo.com
PARLIAMENTARIANGASTONIA, NORTH CAROLINA
Mrs. Lillian Pryor Williams ’55
Mrs. Alvah Taylor Beander ’73
Email: Lprywms72@yahoo.com
atbserves@gmail.com
Greetings Sisters,
Bennett College Alumnae are
passionate and driven to prove
that WE are firm believers and
supporters towards the future of our
beloved alma mater
CINCINNATI, OHIO
PRESIDENT
Rev. Jeannine Lewis Walker ’85
Mrs. Deborah Tillman Love ’79
nean727@juno.com
dtlbcnaa@gmail.com
TREASURER
Mrs. Elayne Gibbs Jones ’88
egjones8@hotmail.com
CALLING ALL BENNETT BELLES!!
As the Class of 1975 approaches
our 40th Class Reunion in May
2015 we have initiated a fundraising
campaign that will supplement our
personal gifts to the Bennett College
2015 Annual Fund.
2013-2015
ORANGEBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA
Dr. Grace Heyward Salters ’55
gsalters@bellsouth.net
RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA
Ms. Joyce Bass Valentine ’78
jedw56@aol.com
ROCHESTER, NEW YORK
Ms. Lillie Stone ’74
Lillie.Stone@rcsdk12.org
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA
Ms. Meredith Simmons ’96
msimmons@shipyardhhi.com
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Ms. Brooke Walker ’94
ladyvenoms@yahoo.com
TIDEWATER AREA, VIRGINIA
Mrs. Rita Dean Simpson ’72
rdsimpson8@gmail.com
ALBANY, GEORGIA
Dr. Judith Hatch ’77
Judehatch@yahoo.com
GREATER NEW YORK
Mrs. Lenore Brathwaite ’89
lenore72lab@aol
WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK
Ms. Fay L. Fagan ’55
faylfagan@aol.com
BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
Ms. Norita Phillips ’91
norita68@msn.com
GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA
Mrs. Elizabeth Patterson White ’70
epwhite2014@yahoo.com
WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
Mrs. Audrey Adams Longcrier ’72
alongcrier@charter.net
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA
Mrs. Eugenia D. Johnson ’48
ej122501@aol.com
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
Ms. Tisha Harris ’63
tharris60@aol.com
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA
Mrs. Betty Brown Wilson ’81
Wilson7273@bellsouth.net
METRO ATLANTA, GEORGIA
Ms. Francena Brown ’86
fbrownbc86@comcast.net
WINSTON SALEM,
NORTH CAROLINA
Ms. Shareka R. Brown ’97
srbrown28@yahoo.com
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
Tirshatha Derricks-Bey ’99
tirshatha830@yahoo.com
METRO WASHINGTON, DC
Atty. Brandy Jones Osimokun ’00
barristerbrandy@yahoo.com
Area Contact Person:
KINSTON, NORTH CAROLINA
Mrs. Joyce H. Raye ’59
Home: (252) 523-4991
Chapter &
Class Giving
Class of 1939
$2,179.00
Class of 1944
$4,225.00
Class of 1949
$32,596.50
Class of 1954
$15,262.00
Class of 1959
$47,686.00
Class of 1964
$56,911.00
Class of 1969
$36,009.00
Class of 1974
$8,560.00
Class of 1979 $14,900.00
Class of 1984 $3,340.00
Class of 1989 $525.00
Class of 1994 $8,962.00
Class of 1999 $6,419.51
Class of 2004 $4,932.12
Class of 2009 $125.00
Albany $755.92
Baltimore $6,205.00
Cincinnati $6,302.00
Charleston, SC $18,126.00
Chicago $1,180.00
Coastal Carolina $800.00
Delaware Valley $6,349.00
Detroit $4,675.00
Durham $20,747.00
Eastern NC $14,772.00
Gastonia $850.00
General $169,785.11
Greater NY $16,403.00
Greensboro
$254,355.25
Kinston $850.00
Las Vegas $970.00
$18,343.16
Metro Atlanta Metro Charlotte $19,357.00
Metro DC
$47,583.60
New England/Connecticut$11,390.08
North Jersey $5,080.00
Northern VA $36,962.00
Orangeburg $1,400.00
Raleigh $13,524.50
San Francisco Bay $8,502.00
Savannah
$3,100.00
Southern California $21,180.00
Tidewater $22,372.33
Westchester $7,775.00
Western NC $3,435.00
Winston Salem $7,610.00
Total Giving: $993,372.08
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 29
2013-2015
NAA
NOMINATION PROCEDURES
BENNETT COLLEGE NATIONAL ALUMNAE ASSOCIATION
Criteria
To be a National Officer, an alumna shall be an active
member of the Association, actively participated in
the programs of the Association, shall be a member of
a local chapter, provided that one is in her residential
area, and she shall have attended a minimum of one
annual business meeting within the last two years prior
to nomination. The nominee for President and Vice
President shall have graduated from Bennett College for
at least five years prior to nomination. Candidates for
Recording Secretary, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, and
Parliamentarian shall have attended Bennett College for a
minimum of two (2) years.
Duties of Officers
The PRESIDENT shall preside at all meetings: she shall
have the power to call meetings of the organization,
the Executive Board, and the Executive Committee.
She shall appoint the chair of all ad-hoc and standing
committees. Together with the TREASURER, she shall
sign all contracts and obligations authorized by the
Executive Committee. She shall maintaina record of
correspondence, and respond to such. She shall serve on
the Executive Committee for one year after herelected
term in office in an ex-officio capacity.
The VICE PRESIDENT shall perform the duties of
the PRESIDENT in her absence, incapacitation, or
resignation, in the office of President. She shall serve as
chair of the Awards Committee, Scholarship Committee,
and she shall serve as the editor of the NAA Newsletter,
and Director of Area Units whenever either is required.
The RECORDING SECRETARY shall record and
keep a record of the minutes of the general organization
and of the Executive Committee and Executive Board
meetings. She shall serve as custodian of all organization
records and historical records. She shall maintain under
a separate cover, permanent copies of the Constitution,
Bylaws, and Standing Procedures. She shall record the
attendance of each member present at all Executive
Committee meetings. She shall maintain as proof of
attendance at the Annual Business Meeting, the Official
Sign-In Sheet distributed at the Annual meeting.
30 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
The FINANCIAL SECRETARY shall maintain all
records of receipts of funds and records of disbursements;
she shall give an annual report to the membership, and
submit all records for audit at the end of the fiscal year.
She shall be the National Chairperson for membership.
She shall issue membership cards within 30 days of
receipt of membership dues. She shall give an annual
report at the Annual Business Meeting of the NAA.
The TREASURER shall have custody of all funds of the
association, and she shall deposit all funds in a bank in
Greensboro, North Carolina. She shall, upon the receipt
of all legitimate statements, with the authorization of the
President, disburse the funds of the association. She shall
keep a full and accurate record of all funds transmitted to
her and a record of all funds disbursed. Together with the
PRESIDENT, she shall sign all contracts and obligations
authorized by the Executive Committee. She shall give
an annual report at the Annual Business Meeting of the
NAA, and she shall submit all records for audit at the
end of the fiscal year. She shall submit a treasurer’s report
monthly to the President.
The PARLIAMENTARIAN shall be responsible for the
proper conduct of business proceedings. She shall review
the Constitution, Bylaws, and Standing Procedures of
the NAA and she shall make recommendations to the
Executive Committee/Board. She shall use Robert’s
Rules of Order, newly revised issue as final parliamentary
authority.
All nominees must submit notification of position, a
current resume, and a black and white passport sized
photograph to the Nominating Chairperson no later
than January 31, 2015.
NAA Awards Criteria
Alumnae Awards are presented during Alumnae Weekend and are open to all eligible
candidates that meet the criteria for each applicable award. Please submit a glossy 3
X 5 black & white photo, brief biographical sketch and any additional information by
January 31, 2015 to Nichelle Gordon-Scott, National Vice President, ngordscott@aol.
com. Go to www.bennett.edu, click on Alumnae tab and download Nomination Form.
Format
__ All nominations must be completed on the official nomination form
__ Typed submissions only
__ Please complete form in its entirety
__ If an item is not applicable, mark it N/A
__ Attach additional sheets as needed
What to Include
__ Please submit a Resume and/or a Brief Biographical Sketch
__ An electronic photo in jpg. format
__ A detailed Narrative, providing specific examples of merit wherever possible.
__ Optional: Up to 3 letters of support/recommendation may be submitted
Of Note
__ The Selection Committee will hold all nominations in confidence.
__ Nominations may be resubmitted in subsequent years
__ No nomination will be carried over automatically.
__ A Complete Nomination package includes nomination form, Resume and/or Biographical sketch, Narrative and Electronic photo
Deadline
__ Completed nomination packages should be submitted electronically to ngordscott@aol.com no later than January 31, 2015
__ There will be no exceptions to the nomination deadline.
__ All submissions will be acknowledged with an electronic confirmation Email.
Criteria for
Nominee
FRIEND OF BENNETT
Has never attended Bennett College as a student.
Has made outstanding contributions
to the enhancement of the National
Alumnae Association.
Nomination Committee Chairperson is:
Has made outstanding contributions
in support of Bennett College.
MELISSA WATSON ’13
308 Knight Ave.
Cary, NC 27511
melissawatson1926@gmail.com
Has exemplified high moral
character, ideals, and integrity.
ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Must have achieved a high level of
excellence in her chosen profession.
Must have received a BS/BA degree
from Bennett College.
Must have been honored because
of outstanding achievements in her
chosen profession.
actively participated in her chapter
at least one year prior to nomination.
Must have been promoted to a
higher level of responsibility.
Must have rendered outstanding
services to her Alma Mater,
community and profession.
Must have exemplified high moral
character, high ideals, integrity, and
held in high esteem by her fellow
alumnae.
Must have exemplified high moral character, high ideals, integrity and
held in high esteem by her fellow
alumnae.
YOUNG ALUMNAE AWARD
Should be a person who has been
a financial member of her local
chapter for at least two years.
SUSIE W. JONES AWARD
Must have contributed
outstandingly to the growth and
development of the Bennett College
National Alumnae Association.
Should be a person who has been a
financial member of the National Alumnae Association for at least two
years.
Should be a person not over 35 years
of age or who has graduated less
than ten years ago, and must have
Must have exemplified high moral character, high ideals integrity, and
be held in high esteem by fellow
alumnae.
ELLEASE RANDALL COLSTON
SERVICE AWARD
Must have contributed outstandingly
in an elected or appointed National capacity (i.e. national officer, national committee, regional committee).
Must have been a financial member
of the National Alumnae Association
for at least five consecutive years.
Must have been a financial member
of the local chapter, if in geographic
area, for at least five consecutive
years.
Must have consistently contributed
to the National Alumnae Association
Annual Fund for at least five
consecutive years.
Must have contributed outstandingly
to the growth and development
of the Bennett College National
Alumnae Assoc.
Must actively provide service to
Bennett College and/or students.
(i.e. participating in College events, volunteering for Campus projects, staying in contact with students, mentoring students, participating in College recruitment efforts, etc.).
Must actively promote the Mission of Bennett College.
UNSUNG HEROINE AWARD
This award will recognize an alumna from each active chapter. Chapters
will submit the name of their Unsung Heroine to the NAA Awards
Committee per the following criteria:
Must be an alumna of Bennett
College.
Must be a financial member of the
local chapter and National Alumnae Association.
Must be an active member of the chapter attending the majority of scheduled meetings, activities, and contributes to fundraising and recruitment goals.
Must have rendered at least four
years of outstanding service to
develop the local chapter and the
National Alumnae Association.
Should be someone that is not necessarily in the forefront, however,
she supports the mission of Bennett
College for Women from“behind” the
scenes.
Must have exemplified dynamic leadership as a professional.
Should not be a current nominee in
any other alumnae award category.
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 31
from
NEWS
BENNETT college
Bennett College Establishes New Foster Care Initiative
Taylor Turntime, a Bennett
College freshman whose
photograph and story
appeared in the New York
Times, is the kind of student
Bennett College
While at a speaking engagement at
Bennett College, A. Monique Hunt (L)
was introduced to her Bennett sister,
Taylor Turntime. Both come from the
New York foster care system.
Participating in the unveiling was (L to R) Trustee Arnetta Beverly,
President Rosalind Fuse-Hall, Dr. Julianne Malveaux and Trustee Deborah
Foster
Naming Ceremony Honors Former Bennett
College President
The Bennett College Board
of Trustees hosted a Naming
Ceremony for the Pfeiffer
Heating Plant that houses the
Journalism and Media Studies
Program. The renamed
Julianne Malveaux Journalism
and Media Studies Building
was unveiled following
the College’s welcoming
ceremony, Convocatum Est. As the 15th President of
Bennett College, Dr. Julianne
Malveaux was the architect
of an exciting and innovative
transformation at Bennett
College, America’s oldest
historically black college
for women. During her
tenure, the administration
focused on four key areas
for development: women’s
leadership, entrepreneurship,
excellence in communications,
and global awareness. Dr.
32 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
Malveaux led the successful
10-year reaffirmation of
Bennett College’s accreditation
from the Southern Association
of Colleges and Schools;
noticeably improved existing
facilities including the
renovation of the Pfeiffer
Heating Plant; and embarked
on a $21 million capital
improvements program
– marking the first major
campus construction in
more than 25 years and
included the Wellness
Complex, the Martin Dixon
Intergenerational Center/
Children’s House, a 144-bed
honors residence hall, and the
Global Learning Center which
has a 200-seat auditorium,
classroom space, and space the
community uses for special
events. n
will provide support services
to under its new Foster
Care Initiative focused on
increasing the number of
young ladies who graduate
from high school, college and
graduate school.
Turntime was featured as
a result of a donation she
received from the New York
Times Neediest Cases Fund
to buy a dress and other
items for her senior prom in
May 2014.
“Many young women in
the Foster Care System
need this kind of support
to have the motivation to
achieve excellence,” said
Mary Stephens, interim
Department Chair for
Political Science, Social
Work and Sociology at
Bennett College. “Through
our initiative, we want to
provide the experiences,
mentoring, life skills
training, and the role
models that will put these
women on the trajectory for
a rewarding and successful
life.” n
Bennett Establishes Honors
College to Recruit and Retain
More Academic Achievers
The Bennett College Board
of Trustees put its stamp of
approval on the transition
of the Honors Program at
Bennett College to an Honors
College, a move that college
officials believe will increase
the institution’s ability to
recruit and retain high-ability
students.
In addition, the Honors
College will highlight the
importance the institution
places on offering an enriched
honors curriculum. Bennett
College President Rosalind
Fuse-Hall announced the
new designation during the
College’s annual Fall Honors
Convocation.
“Paint the Town Purple” Draws Attention to
Domestic Violence
100th Woman in Congress is Retired Bennett Professor
Congresswoman Alma Adams Served
40 Years at Bennett College
“We did it and there is no stopping us now,” said
Congresswoman Alma Adams, the 100th woman to serve
in Congress. Adams won 75% of the vote to win the 12th
Congressional District seat in Congress.
NAA President Deborah
Love and President
Rosalind Fuse-Hall prepare
for the walk with members
of the Bennett and NC
A&T State University
community.
Presiden
t Fuse-H
all with
Mike Ep
ps
Bennett College was joined by Greensboro Mayor Nancy
Vaughan, comedian/actor Mike Epps and North Carolina
A&T State University on Friday for the “Paint the Town
Purple” walk. The walk brought much needed attention to the
horrors of domestic violence and encouraged the elimination of
incidents of domestic violence on college campuses.
Mike Epps who was in town for a concert said, “God brought
me to Bennett for a reason. I have daughters. Unfortunately,
we get in situations but we all have to understand what’s good
for us and what’s NOT good for us, even if it’s love. You are
beautiful sisters and definitely the prize queens of this world.
Keep supporting this worthy cause.” n
We are proud of all of
the work that was done
by all who saw the value
of making an Honors
College possible here,”
she said. “Through this
college, we are committed
to providing our scholars
with challenging academic
experiences. We also believe
that this will be a prime
source for the development
of a pool of students that
will enter graduate and
professional schools. We
are proud to have this new
college.” n
A visible and strong voice in the community and beyond,
Adams served 40 years as a professor of art at Bennett
College. During that time, she spearheaded the renovation
and opening of the Bennett College Steele Hall Art Gallery.
As an advocate for education, Adams created opportunities
for students to receive much needed scholarship support
through The North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus
Foundation and with The Dr. Alma S. Adams Scholarship
for Outreach and Health Communications funded by the
American Legacy Foundation.
Student Government Association President Alexis Anderson, Retired
Bennett College Professor and Congresswoman Alma Adams and
President Rosalind Fuse-Hall participated in the “March to the Polls.”
As an activist and elected official, Adams created a legacy
of “Bennett Belles are Voting Belles.” As she heads to
Washington, DC to complete the remainder of Mel Watt’s
unexpired term and in January 2015, begin the term of
the 114th Congress, we can be assured a seat and voice
at the table. During her acceptance speech, Adams said,
“Effective immediately, our district has a representative
who will fight for their interest with pride, integrity and
tenacity.” n
Mural Honors First African American
President of Girl Scouts USA
Dr. Gloria R. Scott, the 12th President of Bennett College, was recognized as the 1st African
American President of Girl Scouts USA, with a mural depicting the history of Girl Scouts.
Congratulations Dr. Scott!
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 33
LOYALTY
FUND
Name: _________________________________________________________________ Class:____________________
Address:_________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________________________________ State: _______ Zip:_______________________ ) ________________ Email: ______________________________________________
Please Check All That Apply:
___ ALUMNA ___ PARENT ___ TRUSTEE
___ FACULTY ___ STAFF ___ STUDENT
___ FRIEND/SUPPORTER
Enclosed is my check or money order for: $ Card #_________________________________________________________ Exp. Date: ________________________
Name as it appears on card: _________________________________________________________________________
Signature: _______________________________________________________________________________________
Below is my giving category:
_____
_____
_____
_____
_____
_____
_____
$25,000 or more
$10,000—24,999
$2,500—9,999
$1,926—2,499
$500—1,925
$200—499
$100—199
President’s Circle
David D. Jones Society
Susie Williams Jones Society
1926 Society
Golden Belle Society
Silver Belle Society
Century Club
Check payable to Bennett College
_____
I/we would like our gift designated toward the Annual Fund
I/we would like our gift designated for the Scholarship Fund
_____
I/we would like our gift designated for Capital Improvements
_____
_____Other
My employer will match my gift. Company ______________________________
_____ _________________________________________________________________________
(Please complete and enclose your company’s matching gift form with your contribution)
Convocatum Est – Jan. 15
Honors Convocation – Feb. 19
Admissions Open House – Feb. 28
Senior Day – Mar. 19
Charter Day – Mar. 26
Alumnae Choir Concert – May 7
Baccalaureate Services – May 8
Commencement Exercises – May 9
_____ I would like information on making a planned gift or including
Bennett College in my will.
Mail form to: Bennett College | Office of Institutional Advancement | 900 East Washington Street | Greensboro, NC 27401-3239
Name: __________________________________________________________ Class:______________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________
bennett college national
alumnae association (BCNAA)
Membership Form
City:__________________________________________________ State: ______ Zip: ____________
Phone #: Home (
) ____________________ Cell (
) ____________________
Email: ____________________________________________________________________________
BCNAA Chapter Affiliation (If any): ____________________________________________________
Membership type - Please Check One:
_____ Special Annual Membership of $35 (Graduation date less than 5 years)
_____ Regular Annual Membership of $50
_____ Life Membership of $500
_____ Partial Life Membership (Initial payment $150.00)*
* (Life Membership must be completed within three (3) years)
Enclosed is my check or money order for: $ _______________________________________________
Credit Card Payment ____Visa ___ MasterCard ___ Discover Amount to be charged $ ____________
Card #________________________________________________ Exp. Date: ___________________
Name as it appears on card: ____________________________________________________________
Checks and money order payable to:
Bennett College National Alumnae Association
Mail completed form and payment to:
BCNAA, P. O. Box 20321,
Greensboro, NC 27420
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
SPECIAL NOTE: PAID MEMBERSHIP GRANTS VOTING
PRIVILIGES DURING THE ANNUAL MEETING HELD
ALUMNAE WEEKEND AND ELIGIBILTY FOR A
BALLOT IN AN ELECTION YEAR.
MARK YOUR
CALENDARS
ALUMNAE WEEKEND 2015
May 7 – 9, 2015
Reunion Classes: 0’s and 5’s
Headquarters: Sheraton
Four Seasons
3121 High Point Road,
Greensboro, NC 27407
336-292-9161 or 1-800-242-6556
Hotel Group Cut-off Date:
April 3, 2015
{
Online Giving
www.bennett.edu
Save the
Date
Keep In
Touch
CALL:
Audrey Franklin ’72, Director
of Alumnae Affairs,
336-517-2247
EMAIL:
afranklin@bennett.edu
FAX:
336-517-2244
WRITE:
Bennett College, Office of
Alumnae Affairs
900 East Washington Street,
Greensboro, NC 27401
WEBSITE:
www.bennett.edu
{
Phone number: Home (
YES! I would like to contribute
to Bennett College and be a part
of ensuring a strong and vibrant
future for aspiring young women
who desire to join the ranks of
educated women.
For questions, contact Elayne Gibbs Jones ’88 at
egjones8@hotmail.com or
Queen Simpson ’75 at qcsimp@ameritech.net
Signature _________________________________________________________________________
34 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE | 35
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
GREENSBORO, NC
PERMIT #366
900 E. Washington Street
Greensboro, NC 27402
May the gifts of good times, good health
and joy fill your home this holiday
season. We thank you for your continued
support and look forward to a
prosperous New Year.
The Bennett College Family
36 | BELLE RINGER MAGAZINE
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