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THE LEGACY MAGAZINE
ADVISORY BOARD
A. RAY BRINSON
PRESIDENT, B-CU NAA
JOHN L. C. DOUGLAS, III,
VICE PRESIDENT, B-CU NAA
JOHNNY MCCRAY
ALUMNI REPRESENTATIVE, B-CU NAA
AUDLEY COAKLEY
ALUMNI REPRESENTATIVE, B-CU NAA
LEE BRYAN
TREASURER, B-CU NAA
ESSIE SMITH
CHAPLAIN, B-CU NAA
EDITORIAL BOARD
GINA PETTY SANDERS, CHAIR
B-CU NAA Public Relations Director
DR. ALBERT BETHUNE JR., MEMBER
LEE BRYAN, MEMBER
DR. RICARDO P. DEVEAUX, MEMBER
JACQULINE T. MONGAL, MEMBER
DEAN O'BRIEN, MEMBER
In This Issue
COVER STORY
DEPARTMENTS
FEATURES
Marching Pride
combine Funk with
Family ............Page 28
From the Editor-InChief ............Page 4
B-CU
History..........Page 7
Distinguished Alumni
Award Winner:
Jerrica Lee ......Page 14
Distinguished Alumni
Award Winner:
and Lee Bryan ..Page 20
Living Legacy: Joan
Thompson ......Page 15
The History of the
Florida Classic
revealed..........Page 17
Presidential Corner:
From The Desk of
the National
President ......Page 5
Presidential Corner:
From The Desk of
the University
President ......Page 6
Message from
Public Relations
Director ......Page 10
Legacy
Sports..........Page 24
Points of
Light: Harry
Morris ........Page 27
2011 Alumni
Convention .. Page 29
THE LEGACY STAFF
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Karsceal Turner
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Joydel M. Trail
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Erica Crawford, Crawford Designs
SALES & ADVERTISING
Karsceal Turner
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Wildcat Alumni on
the move: Percy
Williamson ..Page 11
Points of
Pride ..........Page 12
Chapter
SpotlightMiamiDade ..........Page 22
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Andreas Butler
Gina Petty Sanders
PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Reeves, Bethune-Cookman University
Karsceal Turner
Margaret Hill B-CU Archive
Orange County Alumni Chapter Archive
PRINTING
Browning Communications
THE B-CU NAA LEGACY MAGAZINE
FROM THE EDITOR
<< Karsceal Turner, Editor-In-Chief,
speaks to the alumni
FROM THE DESK OF THE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Karsceal Turner,
Editor-In-Chief,
an example
of service
A
great deal has happened since our
last issue my fellow alumni, I hardly know
where to begin. Homecoming 2010 was a
blast! I savored the opportunity to meet and
greet old classmates and friends. To top it off,
Coach Brian Jenkins has our football team
running like a well-oiled machine. There are
only two games that matter to the B-CU family, Homecoming and the game against
FAMU. We’ve already won Homecoming
and have now arrived at the pinnacle of the
fall season.
As we inhale the atmosphere of the
Florida Classic, which has become the largest
historically Black football game in the nation,
you hold in your hands the third issue of our
Bethune-Cookman University National
Alumni Magazine “The Legacy.” This issue
is a testament of the power of faith. Thus, I
used an excerpt from the founder’s last will
and testament as my springboard for this letter.
I want to express sincere gratitude to my
fellow alumni. This issue could not have happened without your input, your energy and
your stories. As a son of the legacy, I am
proud to have your support. You are the people who walked across the same quad I did,
prayed before every meal in the café with me,
and raised your hand while singing the same
alma mater I did. I do not take that lightly at
all. I shall continue to solicit your support
and shall not fail you. Legacy III (as I have
affectionately dubbed it), ushers in the era of
our new National Alumni President A. Ray
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I LEAVE YOU FAITH.
“Faith is the first factor in a life devoted to service.
Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible.
Faith in God is the greatest power, but great, too, is faith in oneself.”
- DR. MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE
Brinson. He accepted the torch and will continue to lead this organization to the next
level. President Brinson has taken an active
interest in the progress of the B-CU NAA organization.
I would also like to thank all who have
been involved in this publication from its inception until now. One thing that always impressed me about our founder, Dr. Mary
McLeod Bethune, was her tenacity. This
child of former slaves had the gumption to
think she could start a school for colored girls
in one of the most racist places in the South.
She had the nerve to acquire what was then
the city dump, and build on it. Before it was
over, she had that same community eating
out of her hands. In pursuit of her dream,
“Mother Dear” befriended presidents and
their wives, mobilized the Black community,
and even fought off the Klu Klux Klan. The
vision became contagious.
Those of you who made it to Homecoming 2010 can bear witness that the lovely
landscape on campus is as far from a dump as
one could ever imagine. The city, which once
shunned Dr. Bethune, has since elected Black
city commissioners and its first Black Mayor
(who also happened to be a Black woman).
Last, but not least, the school, which began
with a $1.50 investment - 106 years later is
run on a multi-million dollar annual budget.
It is no longer a college, but a university,
which has graduated more than 15,000 students since 1943. All these feats are testi-
monies to one woman’s tenacity and serve as
proof of what can be done with faith the size
of a mustard seed. I encourage you all to take
a collective bow. You are evidence of one
woman’s dream.
Now, sit back and enjoy the stories of
your classmates, professors, teammates, and
friends. In this issue, you may look forward
to: Messages from Dr. Trudie Kibbe-Reed,
B-CU president; A. Ray Brinson and newlyelected national alumni president; Gina
Sanders, public relations director. Enjoy features on outstanding alumnus and young
alumnus, Lee Bryan and Jerrica Lee; “Living
Legacy,” featuring Joan Thompson; “Alumni
on the Move,” featuring Percy Williamson;
and “Points of Pride,” featuring Harry Morris. In addition, check out a spotlight on the
Miami-Dade B-CU Alumni chapter, photos
of our newly elected Alumni queens, a feature on the Marching Wildcats, the history of
the Florida Classic, Legacy Sports and much
more.
Each of you reading this publication is a
living legacy of the same woman. She is
Mother to us all. As always, this publication
is dedicated to you, the sons and daughters
of the dream. Wildcat Alumni, I salute you.
Karsceal Turner
P.S. Beat the Ratters!
PRESIDENTIAL CORNER
<< Ray Brinson, National Alumni President,
speaks to the alumni
FROM THE DESK OF THE
NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Ray Brinson, B-CU NAA President
“I solemnly promise to serve the National Alumni Association of
Bethune-Cookman University for the next two years and will
perform all the duties appertaining to the office of
President to the best of my ability,”
A. RAY BRINSON, JUNE 19, 2010, PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FLORIDA
To our dedicated members,
I wish to publicly thank the members of this
association for the great honor of serving as
our President. I am fully aware of the magnitude of this office and will do my utmost to
discharge my duties with honor and pride. I
fully realize the responsibilities and importance of this position, and cherish the opportunity to serve. I will not let you down.
It is your right to have an organization that
you can be proud of, one that you have full
confidence in that your voice as a member
will be heard. The leadership team, the
Board of Directors, will do its best to make
sure our goals and expectations are exceeded.
We need your input, suggestions, contributions, and undying support. “We are listening.”
The alumni of B-CU are the greatest re-
sources of advocacy for the University. Many
people form their opinions about our beloved
institution based on their contact or impression of you. We are living testament and it is
imperative that we maintain positive images
of B-CU where we live, work and worship.
• The sons and daughters of Dr. Mary
McLeod Bethune should give first then
ask others to give. We are the major
stakeholders. We simply can’t expect
others to do more for B-CU than we are
willing to do ourselves.
• We must participate in alumni chapter
activities, National Alumni Association
initiatives and University-sponsored events.
• Our alumni must also participate in
community service activities and
assume leadership roles in these
organizations.
The biggest contribution we can make to our
alma mater is to connect, engage, and inspire
alumni everywhere to work to their fullest to
make B-CU the best institution possible. In
today’s environment, our responsibility has
shifted from mere survival to thriving, growing and remaining competitive. You are key
to this challenge and we must answer the call
now more than ever.
• We must assist B-CU with the
recruitment of quality students and
do our fair share in ensuring the
retention of these students.
“Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve!”
We are counting on you so join our winning TEAM today. Our students and the University
are depending on us. The stakes are too high and I know you won’t let us down.
“YOU DON’T BELONG TO THE NATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION, IT BELONGS TO YOU!”
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PRESIDENTIAL CORNER
<< Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed, Bethune-Cookman University
President, speaks to the alumni
FROM THE DESK
OF THE UNIVERSITY
PRESIDENT
Trudie Kibbe Reed, Ed. D., President
Bethune-Cookman University
Dear Alumni, Friends, Family and Football Fans:
I am overjoyed to welcome the
Wildcats and Rattlers to a highly anticipated
event that has been taking place now for 31
years! Each year the momentum builds between faculty, staff, students and players as
we inch closer and closer to the moment
when the coin is tossed and the game begins… the 31st Florida Classic!! The annual
standoff between rivals Bethune-Cookman
University and Florida A&M University
unite in a fiery spirit of competition, strength,
and endurance as they converge on the field
to battle it out in a game that demonstrates
the true test of pride, teamwork and championship… and one that everyone has been
waiting to take part in and rally for. I am
pleased to welcome all of you along with my
fellow President, friend and once-a-year rival,
FAMU’s Dr. James H. Ammons.
With that said, this year’s epic event
will invoke your true team spirit, taking you
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completely out of your seats and have you
cheering proudly and loudly for your school!
Under the transformative leadership of new
Head Football Coach Brian Jenkins, we are
bringing you a brand new vision, a brand new
team and a brand new Wildcat ROAR! More
importantly, although we are gathering together for an outstanding competition, we
must remember that we are also here representing all Historically Black Colleges and
Universities (HBCUs), as well as honoring
the legacy of our founder, Dr. Mary McLeod
Bethune and her vision for faith, service, education, community and unity! It is this vision that sets the tone and precedence for our
kickoff… peace, harmony, love and unity.
Then we compete! One of the most memorable quotes that come to mind is by threetime U.S. Olympic champion Ms. Gail
Devers, “Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything, requires faith and
belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all
things are possible for those who believe.”
It is my greatest pleasure to welcome you in celebrating this unity of community, this momentous occasion and this
vision… the 31st Florida Classic, an event
that would not be possible without the support and dedication of our GREAT B-CC/BCU and FAMU Alumni, family and friends.
We are also truly blessed for our unstoppable
Mighty Wildcats Football Team and the
“PRIDE” of B-CU – The Marching Wildcat
Band, under the direction of Bethune-Cookman University’s very own “Magnificent
One,” Mr. Donovan Wells! Their legendary
performances speak for themselves and I have
no doubt that this year’s performance will exceed our expectations! GO WILDCATS!
HISTORY CENTER
<< The History of the Great
Bethune-Cookman University
The Wildcat
History
Complied by Catherine Kershaw with contributions by
Albert Bethune and Dr. Nancy Long
Bethune-Cookman University was founded in Daytona
Beach, Florida, in 1904 by world-renown educator and civil and
women’s rights activist, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. Her initial investment to open the school with one dollar and fifty cents and her unshakable faith in God more than 100 years ago has impacted the lives
of thousands and thousands of people who have benefited from her
legacy of faith, scholarship, and service.
With five little girls as its first pupils, the Daytona Literary
and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls soon attracted many
of the Negro children of the farmers and railroad workers in the Halifax area, along the Intercoastal Waterway of northeast Florida. Mrs.
Bethune's vision was to teach these children who came from the humblest environments how to read and write as well as master domestic
sciences so that they could develop their self esteem and be productive citizens.
Over the years, Mrs. Bethune’s dynamic vision, strong administrative leadership, and creative knack for fundraising won her
many benefactors and friends among the wealthy philanthropists who
wintered in the greater Daytona Beach area. They included American
Industrialist John D. Rockefeller, White Sewing Machine tycoon
Thomas White, playwright Harrison G. Rhodes, and Proctor and
Gamble heir James N. Gamble, who became a “trustee of her dream”
and the president of one of the school’s early boards of trustees. Their
support and Mrs. Bethune’s determination kept the school alive in its
early years of development.
In 1923, the school, then known as the Daytona Normal and
Industrial School for Negro Girls, began a merger for financial reasons with the Cookman Institute of Jacksonville, Florida. In 1925
Mrs. Bethune completed that merger and entrusted the merger to The
Methodist Church saying, “…take it, use it, develop it, and may the
thousands yet unborn have their full chances of development… use it
as an institution that stands for all that is great and noble in manhood
Photo: Margaret Hill & Orange County Alumni Chapter Archive
This diploma was signed by the founder of Bethune-Cookman University, Dr.
Mary McLeod Bethune. It was presented to Willie Mae Foster in 1941.
and womanhood…” Mrs. Bethune continued as President until
her retirement in 1942.
Established in 1872, the Cookman Institute was named for
a Methodist preacher, The Reverend Alfred Cookman of Ocean
Grove, New Jersey, whose gift helped establish the school that was
administered to by The Reverend Samuel Darnell, also a Methodist
minister. It was the first institution of higher education for AfricanAmericans in the state of Florida and specialized in the religious and
academic preparation of teachers and clergy. Under the leadership of
Reverend Darnell, the school served thousands of young Black men
and women, and it was acclaimed for the scope of its rigorous curriculum.
At the time of the merger, the school evolved into the Daytona Cookman Collegiate Institute, enrolled male students, expanded
its curriculum, and forged an affiliation with The Methodist (now The
United Methodist) Church that continues today. ROM PAGE 9
In 1926, the school was renamed Bethune-Cookman College
and remained that until achieving University status in early 2007.
<< SEE HISTORY, PAGE 9
7
BETHUNE-COOKMAN
UNIVERSITY HISTORY
<< Bethune-Cookman University during recent
Homecoming and last year’s Florida Classic
Photos: John Reeves
8
HISTORY
In 1931, B-CC was accredited by the
Association of Colleges and Secondary
Schools of the Southern States. Since 1945
it has maintained continuous accreditation
by The Commission on Colleges of the
Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools, a regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education
institutions in the Southern states.
While serving as its President from
1904 to 1942, Dr. Bethune became an acclaimed world-wide figure attracting the attention of national and international
leaders to her school. She was appointed
to numerous committees and programs
during the terms of U.S. Presidents Harding, Coolidge, Hoover, Roosevelt and Truman. Her reputation as a power broker in
the political arena earned her the friendship
and support of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his wife, Eleanor, and secured
her the position of Special Advisor to President Roosevelt on Minority Affairs, 19351944. Roosevelt appointed her Director,
Division of Negro Affairs, National Youth
Administration, 1936-1944. She founded
and served as the first president of the National Council for Negro Women.
Dr. Bethune retired from the presidency of Bethune-Cookman in 1942.
Since that time the school has had four
presidents: Dr. James A. Colston, 19421946; Dr. Richard V. Moore, Sr., 19471975; Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, Sr.,
1975-2004; Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed, 2004present. Bethune served as President from
1946 to 1947.
The first woman president since Dr.
Bethune, President Reed has invigorated
the school’s rich history and legacy and put
forth initiatives that have resulted in in-
creased academic standing and size. The
addition of a master’s degree program, increased online academic course offerings,
Florida State Department of Education
reaccreditation of the teacher education
programs, an accelerated degree program
in Business Administration, and an innovative Environmental Science Program
have elevated the image and importance of
the school in the southeastern region of the
United States, as reported by U.S. News
and World Report 2009 America’s Best
Colleges.
Situated in the heart of Daytona
Beach on a park-like 82 acres, the size of
the school has expanded with the completion of several major facilities including a
student fitness and recreation center, a
Civic Engagement Center, a new facility
for the School of Nursing and a commu-
Choir performances from early days set the standard for those we enjoy today.
nity wellness center, and two scholarship
student residential facilities.
The documented annual economic impact of the University in its immediate surrounding area exceeds $300 million. The
school’s endowment is $ 32.3 million, and
the Composite Financial Index rating is
4.3. All of these figures indicate a strong financial stability for the institution.
Founded more than 100 years ago with
a small amount of capital and a spirit of
determination, Bethune-Cookman University now ranks among the nation’s higher
education institutions as a beacon of hope
and opportunity for those who enter its hallowed halls. Dr. Bethune’s legacy lives on
in the lives of more than 15,000 alumni,
worldwide. Come be a part of the Legacy
of Faith, Scholarship, and Service.
Sources: Flemming, Sheila Y. 1995.
Bethune-Cookman College, 1904 - 1994: The
Answered Prayer to a Dream. Virginia Beach,
VA: Donning. www.nps.gov
The Marching Men of Bethune-Cookman have evolved into the Marching Pride
of Bethune-Cookman University.
9
FROM THE PUBLIC
RELATIONS DIRECTOR
<< Gina Sanders, B-CU NAA Public Relations
Director, speaks to the alumni
FROM THE DESK
OF THE PUBLIC
RELATION DIRECTOR
“If we have the courage and tenacity of our forebears,
who stood firmly like a rock against
the lash of slavery, we shall find a way to
do for our day what they did for theirs.”
Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune
Gina Sanders
B-CU NAA Public Relations Director
My Fellow Alumni:
Despite these challenging, yet
changing times, the alumni of the Great
Bethune-Cookman University still seek
personal commitments through our investments, recruitments and our spirit of
vision to promote academic excellence.
On behalf of the Executive
Board, I wholeheartedly thank you for
your continued support through the years
of rapid progress. Your support has
helped to move the Association to its
present level of prominence.
As Director of Public Relations,
I strongly urge you to remind yourselves
of the true definition of “Vision and
Legacy” that will not only acknowledges
the growth and progress of our institution, but will manifest itself through the
youth of today and decades ahead, while
advancing our founder’s tradition of
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faith, scholarship and service.
Last year, a new venture was
proposed after a unanimous decision
made by the Executive Board of the National Alumni Association. The task was
to develop and implement a magazine
that would serve as a resource tool to
keep Alumni connected and engaged in
the life of the University. In order to
make this vision a reality, many minds
came together to strengthen this endeavor. It was indeed quite a challenge,
but one of dedication, commitment and
hours of planning and preparation,
which has truly been reflected in the culmination of the “LEGACY.”
I am elated to announce that,
through time, treasure and talent two outstanding publications have evolved.
Alumni, we are now stakeholders of a
proud experience. Our goal is to ensure
that this initiative remains a collaborative
success. Therefore, your stories, and
alumni points of pride will be greatly received and appreciated.
I sincerely urge all graduates to
become active members in their local
chapters. In addition, being involved
constitutes your promise as part of our
motto “Depart to Serve.” It is essential
that we remain positive contributors, financially, physically, and spiritually for
the future of our distinguished institution. Your accomplishments as students
at B-CU built the foundations that have
enabled you to lead productive and successful lives. Let’s maintain our connection as Wildcats and offer support to
continue the dream of our founder.
WILDCAT ALUMNI
ON THE MOVE
<< Percy Williamson speaks
Prominent city
worker’s ties to B-CU
remain strong
BY ANDREAS BUTLER
SPECIAL TO THE B-CU NAA LEGACY MAGAZINE
Percy Williamson is a graduate of the
Bethune-Cookman College Class of 1978.
Williamson is a native of Daytona Beach
from humble beginnings. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with
honors and was a standout on the CageCat
basketball team.
He attributes his success to hard work,
dedication, his experiences with athletics and
what he learned at B-CC.
Currently, he serves as Director of Daytona Beach Leisure Services and has held the
post since 2003. He oversees a $14.5 million
dollar budget, 126 employees, 42 parks, 12
community centers, two 18-hole professional
golf courses, a skate park and two aquatic
centers. He is responsible for managing the
department, which enhances the quality of
life through use of the city’s recreational facilities.
Williamson grew up in the housing projects of Daytona Beach. He lived in Palmetto
Park, nicknamed PPU, and his time there encouraged him to work hard to succeed.
Williamson takes credit for giving the housing complex its nickname.
“I coined the phrase PPU at 12-year-old.
We told people where we were from and we
were proud. We grew up and learned life lessons there,” he said.
Sports served as outlets for him. He used
them to excel. Williamson was also a star basketball player at Seabreeze High School. He
graduated in 1974.
The B-CC Years
Williamson recalled being known for his
prowess on the court, but he felt he was a better student.
“I always made the dean’s and president’s list every semester and was selected
Who’s Who Among Students in Universities
and Colleges, but most people knew me as a
basketball player,” he said.
On the court, Williamson earned AllSAIC honors as a junior in 1977 and helped
When you master your craft it prepares you to be
“able
to execute and perform. When you can do
that then you earn the respect of your colleagues.
”
-- Percy Williamson
the Wildcats to a 21-5 record. His senior
year, the team posted an 18-9 mark.
“We went 29-0 in two years at Moore
Gymnasium,” he said. “It was a unique experience being there and being from Daytona
Beach. I was very involved on campus and
lived in Cookman Hall.”
Williamson said the skills he learned at
B-CU helped him succeed in life.
“Walking where Dr. Bethune walked had
a profound influence on me,” he said. “My
time in school was a great experience. Most
of the students there at the time were diamonds in the rough. We learned what helped
us become leaders. People thought a small
HBCU would hinder us from achievement,
but it enhanced us. I have been in executive
management my entire life I also met lifelong
friends. All my roommates and teammates
stay in contact today.”
Williamson said his entrance into the
corporate world started during a vacation to
Louisiana, which turned into a permanent
move. He took a job as the assistant manager
at Walgreens and his wife became a teacher.
After Walgreens, Williamson worked for Wachovia Bank as vice president and state director of the community finance division and
Bank of America as state director of the community finance division.
“At the Bank of America, I oversaw a
$125 million dollar division statewide from
Pensacola to Key West. I helped small businesses, built community centers, affordable
housing, shopping centers and etcetera
throughout the state,” he said.
11
Traveling the road less traveled
Williamson said climbing the ladder has
not been easy; especially being a minority in
his chosen field.
“It wasn’t uncommon for me to be in a
board meeting and be the only minority. I was
often the only black person. I understood
early on that mastering your field is the key to
success. When you master your craft it prepares you to be able to execute and perform.
When you can do that then you earn the respect of your colleagues,” he said.
He said he is extremely pleased with
progress of B-CU and proud to work with it
on a constant basis.
“B-CU has grown tremendously physically and academically. I am proud to have a
hand in many of the venues that they use for
their athletic programs,” he said. “The baseball team uses Jackie Robinson Ballpark, the
softball team uses Sunnyland Park, the tennis
team uses City Island Tennis Courts, and the
football team uses the Municipal Stadium.
There is an interwoven connect between the
city and school. I get to interact with the
school every day and I’m proud to be able to
partner and enhance.”
Williamson is a member of New Mt.
Zion Baptist Church in Daytona Beach
where he serves on the trustee board. He also
serves on the Police Athletic League’s Board
of Directors. Williamson is married to his
college sweetheart and also a B-CU graduate,
the former Carmen Oliver. The two have been
married for 31 years and have three sons.
POINTS OF PRIDE
<< Outstanding ALumni and Alumni Chapters
Orange County Alumni Chapter Scholarship Awards
2010-2011 TWELVE STUDENTS RECEIVES SCHOLARSHIPS
Bethune-Cookman University National Alumni Orange County Chapter 2010
Founded in 1904 by Mary
McLeod Bethune, BethuneCookman University, continues
the founder’s legacy of Faith,
Scholarship, and Service.
The Orange County Chapter
of B-CU National Alumni Association awarded 12 scholarships
to new and returning students in
Orange County.
Scholarship committee: Cynthia Walker-Bland and Jennifer Q. Adams Co-chairs,
Margaret Hill committee member.
New Students
Renisha Cheeseborough
Diovonni Girade
Returning Students
Curtis Killing
Ashley Jones
Danielle McGill
Antonio Shorter
James Newton
Brittany Brown
Willie Brown
Tacoma Davis
Alan Hayes
Tinal Sankey
POINTS OF PRIDE
Sadie Milliner-Smith, Class of 1984, was
appointed, Vice Principal, Department of Juvenile Justice Schools, Duval County
Public Schools, Fall - 2010
Emmitt G. Coakley, Class of 1954,
was B-CU's nominee for the North
Florida HBCU Alumni Hall of
Fame, 2010 Class, Sept 2010
A. Ray Brinson, Class of 1969,
is the President of the North Florida
HBCU Alumni Hall of Fame, the
only one of its kind in the country.
Mr. Anthony (Regina) Depass gave birth to
their first child Gabriel Anthony on October 4,2010
12
Andra and Diana Diggs have submitted
their life membership dues to the BCU
National Alumni Association.
Kelly Carter, Principal, Coronado Beach
Elementary & Chisholm Elementary, Volusia County Chapter
Great News! The South Florida, Fort
Myers Chapter was activated in June
2010. The Chapter President is
Haquikah Peterson, Class of 2008. Welcome Aboard and thanks for rejoining
our Winning TEAM!
HAPPY TRAILS
Eyvette Presley retired after 38 years, Palm
Terrace Elementary School, Volusia
County Chapter
MOVING ON UP.
Congratulations on these promotions
Glory Wilson, retired after 35 years, Westside Elementary School, Volusia County
Chapter
Susan Hyde, Principal, Deltona High
School, Volusia County Chapter
Send your Points of Pride to the Legacy Magazine.
Email: [email protected]
LAW OFFICES OF
JOHNNY L. McCRAY, JR., P.A.
COUNSELOR AND ATTORNEY AT LAW
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
PERSONAL INJURY
MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE
FAMILY LAW
WILLS
BUSINESS LAW
CRIMINAL LAW
REAL ESTATE LAW
400 EAST ATLANTIC BLVD.
POMPANO BEACH, FLORIDA 33060
Phone (954) 781-3662
Fax (954) 786-2289
B-CU GRADUATE AND
LONGTIME SUPPORTER.
Go Wildcats!
13
COVER STORY
<< Young Alumni already making Humanitian moves
Recent Graduate’s
Humanitarian Efforts
are Recognized with Award
BY KARSCEAL TURNER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Early in her life, Jerrica Lee decided she to be a servant to humanity. Ever since she was a child one word truly described
her....ambitious. Ever since she was a child living in Goose Creek,
S.C., one word, which truly describes her is ambitious. Lee’s selection as the United Negro College Fund’s (UNCF) outstanding
young alumni for Bethune-Cookman University for 2010 is testimony to how ambitious she has become. It was based on her contagious attitude and continuous efforts to be a blessing to others.
“If I put my mind to something, I’m going to do it,” she said.
“I use all the resources within my reach. Everyone has something
to offer,” she said. “A garbage man can change the world. What
would it be like if we had no sanitation workers?”
The 2009 graduate of B-CU plans to make her mark on the
world with a Nursing degree. She gave back to the Daytona Beach
community as a registered nurse for three years at Halifax Medical
Center and now continues her career as a pediatric nurse at the
Medical University Hospital Authority in Charleston, S.C. It is
among the top 10 hospitals in the country.
“I love being a nurse,” she said. “At Halifax, I was exposed to
many different techniques and feel enriched for the time I spent
there. I got a lot of hands-on experience during clinicals. B-CU’s
program wasn’t easy, and I am blessed to have finished. In my current position, I work on three separate floors so I get involved in a
lot of different areas including the cardiac floor and the medicalsurgery floor.
“I knew I wanted to become a nurse but couldn’t narrow the
reasons down. I don’t feel as though I’m going to work. I feel empowered because I get to take care of people.”
As a student at B-CU, her ambition showed through her GPA.
She was a Dean’s list award recipient. She was also recognized for
her community service work. She was honored as a dedicated volunteer by the Rose Marie Bryon Children’s Center and was selected
as Most Outstanding Member of the Year, by the B-CU PreAlumni Council.
She served as president of the local chapter of the Pre-Alumni
Council and later as regional director and national president.
<< SEE JERRICA LEE, PAGE 16
14
LIVING LEGACY
<< Joan Thompson devoted to preserving
B-CU Family astrosphere
Living Legacy:
Delta Diva Devoted to Preserving
B-CU Family Atmosphere
I had to make my own way. People can relate to me
“because
I’ve been where they are and survived with less.
They see that I talk from my heart. Most people know
that I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty to get a job
done. The titles don’t matter. I roll up my sleeves and go at it.
”
- Joan Thompson
KARSCEAL TURNER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Familiar fixtures and elements abound
at Bethune-Cookman University. There are
certain elements, which we simply expect
to see on campus. An example would be
the red brick styled buildings, which give
the university its unique character. Another would be White Hall, where the
founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune
held town meetings. Yet another element is the witty “Diva” draped in
Delta Crimson. Her name is Joan
Thompson and she brings a whole new
meaning to the definition of character.
She exudes it. Thompson is a living legacy.
Thompson has worked with three of
the five presidents of the University.
Her service to B-CU began in 1974
and continues today. She is one of
the most recognizable faces on campus.
Since arriving at B-CU during
Richard V. Moore’s administration, she held positions including:
coordinator of freshman orientation (during the days when chapel
was mandatory), assistant professor of education, director of the
Challenger Program, and interim
15
director of general studies. She has written grants, served as a retention specialist
and a program director for Academic Affairs.
Thompson is the professor who will
buy her class lunch and shower them with
praises in their educational progresses. But
she is also quick to scold and reprimand in
ways reminiscent of parents, aunts, uncles
and grand-parents.
She grew up as the third of four children. Thoughts of college never entered
her mind although she was an outstanding
tennis player and student government president at Miami Northwestern High School.
It was her counselor, Dorothy Edwards,
who introduced her B-CU.
“Our mother died when I was very
young so I was a ward of the state,” she
said. “Our aunt cared for us. I had no
money for school so college never crossed
my mind. Everything I got in preparation
for college was given to me.”
Thompson said Edwards had the listening ear of Dr. James E. “Jimmy” Huger
and petitioned him on her behalf. Huger’s
ties to B-CC were as extensive then as they
are today.
<< SEE JOAN THOMPSON, PAGE 16
<< JOAN THOMPSON, PAGE 15
“Mrs. Edwards got in touch with Dr.
Huger and sent me to Daytona Beach with a
one-way ticket,” she said.
The young woman who never had aspirations of college enrolled, received her bachelor’s degree then went on to earn a master’s
degree from Clark Atlanta University.
Thompson said she still keeps in touch with
Edwards.
Thompson interacts with students with
such tact that they return years later with success stories based on her mentorship. She is
a staunch supporter of education and leads
by example. While still enrolled at B-CC,
Thompson took courses at Bryn Mawr College, Haverford College and Yale University.
Decades after that faithful bus ride from
Miami, the “Delta Diva,” who never stops
moving, sat down long enough to give an exclusive interview to the B-CU NAA Legacy
Magazine.
Questions and Answers
with Joan Thompson
Legacy Magazine: What are your most
vivid memories of the campus?
Joan: “There are too many to choose
just one. We had to wear uniforms for a time
when I was in school and freshmen had to be
in at 6 p.m. I laughed at those rules. Hell, I’m
from Miami where they party all night. It
was a joke to me. A lot of things were different. We were protected. Anyone who saw
blue and white uniforms knew we were students.”
“Our growth makes me proud. People
can see the growth and that makes me smile.
They have told me that they can see where
Dr. Reed is spending the money – new build-
<<JERRICA LEE, FROM PAGE 14
“I dig right in. I am no stranger to hard
work,” she said.
Lee’s drive is further evidenced as a
proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.
“I was surrounded by Deltas in Daytona
Beach since I arrived,” Lee said. “Cathy
Washington was the advisor for the PreAlumni Council. She became my mentor.
Also, the director of the Rose Marie Bryon
Center, Janet Elam-Bryant, where I volunteered also is a member and so are Carolyn
Martin and Jackie Mongal.”
“To me, they exemplified what a woman
should be. They always looked out for me
and made sure I had what I needed. They
pushed and inspired me. Then I met some of
the Delta Alpha chapter sorors. They were
16
ings, new dormitories – people are really impressed.
None of this was present when I was in
school. A public school once sat on the site
of the Humanities Building. The enrollment
is almost 3,600 compared to barely 1,000
when I was in school.
Legacy Magazine: You represent Delta
Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. to the fullest,
where did your inspiration to be a Delta come
from?
Joan: “The whole thing was that I was
tight with the AKAs when I was at B-CC.
The sorority suites were in Curtis Hall then.
My best buddies were the president and vicepresident of the AKAs on campus. They
were surprised when they found out I pledged
Delta, but since they were already my friends
it didn’t matter.”
“I made the decision that I was going to
attempt to get on line with the Deltas because
at the time they were snobbish. Basically, I
made up my mind out of nowhere that I was
going to pledge Delta. I was not a singer or
dancer but I had talents that would reveal
themselves later in life. I told them they had
to trust that someday I would be somebody. I
ended up being chapter president, vice president, and dean of pledges. There have been
rules instituted because of me. I didn’t see
the sense of some of the hazing rituals although it was done to me. I didn’t appreciate
it so I put an end to it when I was able to. All
I see is sisterhood. I pledged and worked.”
Legacy Magazine: How many girls
have you inspired to become Deltas?
Joan: “I don’t know how many I may
have inspired. I didn’t really know the impact.
All I know is when I wear my little outfits.
Kids say ‘oh, Ms. Thompson, I want to be
what you are,’ it makes me smile. It hurts me
when girls are turned down to be on line.”
Legacy Magazine: Talk about your relationship with Dr. Reed, your Delta sister.
Joan: “Dr. Reed and I respect one another. Each president I’ve worked under has
their own leadership style. Dr. Reed has
given me a better chance to excel. She allows
you to give your insight on things. I worked
equally hard for each administration I’ve
been part of. I haven’t changed a bit. She has
had a tough time because she inherited folks
who didn’t have those same skills and connection to the community and networking
skills as those under Dr. Moore and Bronson
so it makes it tough.”
Legacy Magazine: Everyone on this
campus and in the community responds to
you. What is your secret?
Joan: “I guess because I’m real. I was
poor when I was student. No care packages
or envelopes full of money. I had to make my
own way. People can relate to me because
I’ve been where they are and survived with
less. They see that I talk from my heart.
Most people know that I’m not afraid to get
my hands dirty to get a job done. The titles
don’t matter. I roll up my sleeves and go at it.
The students always recognize those who
pushed them. At larger universities, you
don’t have that kind of interaction. I also
worked with many athletes helping to prepare them. As a result, many of them graduated.”
Thompson shows no signs of slowing
down. She is now head of the University’s
C.A.R.E.S. Her versatility makes her an asset
to any committee she is assigned to. She is
never afraid to speak her mind because she is
often pulled in various directions at once but
the twinkle in her eye betrays her. The twinkle reveals the fact she loves what she’s doing.
She demands that our students “pull their
britches up” and cover their “goodies.” She
looks after them as if they are her own and
has done this through generations of B-CU
alumni. When the Diva speaks, we hush and
take notice. This is what is familiar to us.
very active helping freshmen. They weren’t so
much trying to recruit us as help us adjust to
collegiate life. With them it was all about
fund-raising, scholarship, and true sisterhood,
just as it was with my mentors who took care
of me when I arrived.”
Lee reminisced about her first trip to
Daytona Beach and her decision to attend BCU
.
“Most of my family graduated from
Florida A&M University. I knew I was going
to college but the choice wasn’t narrowed
down until my God-father, Winston Mack,
started talking about B-CU. He graduated
from B-CU and encouraged me to go down
and check out the family atmosphere. He
said there were people there who would take
care of me plus, it’s only five hours away.
When I returned for registration, it was certainly a different culture altogether. Hurricane
season was in full force and there we were in
the gym trying to get situated. After two
hours of waiting, the line still didn’t move.
My family asked if I wanted to return to
South Carolina and I told them I wanted to
stay at Bethune. I’m so glad I made that
choice. Looking back and seeing how far
we’ve come as an institution from the time I
was a student proves I made the right choice
to stay at B-CU. All I can say is amen.”
Lee said she got a huge dose of the
HBCU experience at B-CU.
“I must say I got the full effect of the historically black college experience and am the
better person for it. It was all I expected it to
be. It was certainly different. I’m still as ambitious as ever. I intend to go on giving and
being a blessing to others,” Lee said.
The History of the
ANDREAS BUTLER
SPECIAL TO LEGACY MAGAZINE
The Florida Classic is the annual battle
between Florida’s two largest historically
black universities. The rivalry between the
Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats and
the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical
University Rattlers has grown to epic proportions.
The game is surrounded by a weekend
full of festivities including a kickoff luncheon, The Battle of The Bands, fan fest, an official after party, career expo / diversity job
fair and other various parties and events.
Over the years the event has grown to be
the largest black college football game and
event in the nation drawing over 1.5 million
spectators to the game and its surrounding
festivities. It has surpassed the Bayou Classic,
which is played in New Orleans between the
Grambling State University Tigers and
Southern University Jaguars.
Bob Creese, Communication Director,
Florida Citrus Sports put the game in perspective concerning attendance.
“According to our website and Bayou
Classic website the Florida Classic is attracting 10,000 more fans. A look around the Citrus Bowl on game day and the Battle of the
Bands on Friday night shows what type of
support both schools get from their fans and
communities,” Creese said.
17
Rattlers lead series
The Classic was created by two men
who were the Athletic Directors at the
schools in Lloyd ‘Tank’ Johnson at B-CC,
and Hensel Tooks at Florida A&M.
The two schools have played each other
since 1925 but the event wasn’t named the
Florida Classic until 1978. FAMU leads the
all-time series 48-15-1 during the 30 year
tenure of the game; they lead the series 20-10.
During the pre-classic years, the Rattlers
dominated. They won the first meeting 25-0
in 1925. B-CC won its first game against
FAMU 12-0 in 1926. At one point the Rattlers won 19 straight including a 68-6 in 1959,
70-0 in 1960 and 76-0 in 1961.
Johnson admitted during the early years
the games were pretty lopsided in FAMU’s
favor. He also said one of the main factors
that led to the Florida Classic as we know it
was economics.
“The game outgrew our home stadiums
and we felt both schools could benefit from
having the game at a neutral site. There was
also great interest in the game between the
schools. We also saw and felt that moving the
game to a neutral site would benefit both
schools financially.”
Wildcats become competitive
Bethune-Cookman making the games
more competitive in the 70’s this also attracted more fans and led to the need for the
game to be played at a neutral site. In 1972
the Wildcats made the game close but still fell
to FAMU. In 1973 they got a big win.
Johnson realized Daytona Beach’s former Memorial Stadium with a capacity of
5,000 was too small. Memorial stood just to
the West of B-CUs campus. Daytona State
University now occupies that land.
“That’s when we really started talking
about moving the game to a neutral site, so
we started talking about it,” Johnson said.
In 1974 B-CC hosted the game at the
18
outgrew our home stadiums and
“ Thewegame
felt both schools could benefit from
having the game at a neutral site. ”
- Lloyd ‘Tank’ Johnson
Daytona Beach International Speedway in
front of a record 25,000 fans.
“I had heard that Father Lopez Catholic
high school played games there before. So we
put in a request and they allowed us to play.
It was great seeing all those fans there,” Johnson said.
In 1975, the game was played at Doak
Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee and in
1976 the Tangerine Bowl in Orlando. In
1977, it returned to Doak. There was a two
year hiatus from 1983-84 because an agreement on location could not be reached. Since
the official Classic began in 1978, FAMU
won six straight times from 1995-2001 and
Bethune-Cookman’s longest active streak was
three games from 2001 to 2003.
“The greatest thing was that we were filling the stadiums. Doak Campbell at the time
had 35,000 seats,” Johnson said.
The Official Florida Classic
The first official classic game was played
in 1978 with Florida A&M rallying from a
17-0 halftime deficit to win 24-17 in Tampa.
Lynn Thompson who now serves B-CU’s
Athletic Director scored the first points in
that inaugural game with a field goal. FAMU
went on to win the inaugural Division I-AA
national title (Now Football Championship
Series) that year. FAMU is still the only
HBCU to have a FCS (formerly Division IAA) title.
The 78’ season was Johnson’s last as a
coach. He held multiple positions as athletic
director and defensive coordinator for the
football team. “My fondest memories as both
coach and athletic director were seeing the
record crowds that we were drawing,” Johnson added.
From Tampa to Orlando
The Classic was played in Tampa from
Photo: Florida Classic Consortium
1978 to 1996 before it moved to Orlando where it has remained since
1997.
Attendance increased in Orlando. In 2003, a record attendance
of 73, 358 fans attended the game
and 1.4 million since 1978. ESPNU
has also aired the game since 2005.
“Here in Orlando the schools
have gotten tremendous support from
their fan bases. Orlando’s location in
the center of the state it makes it easier for alumni from all over the state
to make it. Also with Orlando being
a tourism friendly city with entertainment and lodging options it is an
ideal place for family, friends and
alumni to reunite and experience the
weekend throughout the entire city
through what the city has to offer,”
said Creese.
There are three current NFL
players that were Wildcats who
played in the Classic in Eric Weems
(Atlanta Falcons), Nick Collins
(Green Bay Packers) and Rashean
Mathis (Jacksonville Jaguars).
FAMU has no current players in
the NFL whom played in the Classic
since 78.
The Future
The two HBCUs also compete
in terms of who raises the most funds
through ticket sales. Based upon
their student populations, B-CU
should sell 33-percent of all ticket
sales while FAMU should sell the remaining 67-percent. This is part of
the school’s “President’s Challenge”.
Bethune-Cookman has an enrollment of 3,600 students and FAMU
boasts about 12,000.
Both schools hope that the Classic gets bigger and better in the future.
Meanwhile, FCS Sports hopes to
keep the event in Orlando.
“We hope the event has a long
future here in Orlando. Right now we
are focusing on this year’s game. We
will work with both schools to keep
the event here in the future. It is a
tremendous weekend and FCS is
proud to be a part of it. We encourage
everyone to come be a part of it.”
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18
COVER STORY
<< Lee Bryan exemplifies “Departing to Serve”
through her commitment to the legacy of
faith, scholarship, and service.
Lee Bryan’s record of
service culminates
with selection as
Distinguished
Not only does Bryan contribute to the birth of
ideas, she helps implement them. She has no
Alumnus
problem getting her hands dirty for the cause.
KARSCEAL TURNER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Lee Bryan is supposed to be retired from
teaching for more than three decades. However, she shows no signs of slowing down and
illustrates the meaning behind the “departing
to serve” aspect of the University motto. The
long list of committees she has served on, organizations she has championed, causes she
has advocated for are enormous and is only
rivaled by the man-hours she has logged in
meetings, contributing ideas in think tanks
and participating in conferences.
Not only does Bryan contribute to the
birth of ideas, she helps implement them.
She has no problem getting her hands dirty
for the cause. These are only a few reasons
she has been selected as the Most Distinguished Alumni of Bethune-Cookman University.
20
She fondly remembers walking to school
as a little girl in Daytona Beach. Each day,
she passed by the B-CU campus on what was
then Second Avenue.
Each day, as she walked by, she observed
B-CC female students standing around a pink
and green fountain on the campus grounds.
She often imagined herself standing near the
fountain as a B-CU student talking with
friends. She day-dreamed about becoming a
sophisticated lady of Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority Inc.
“At that time, (Campbell High School)
was located at the Dickerson Center. I lived in
Bethune Village, which means I had to pass
the campus at least twice a day. I saw the
ladies by the fountain looking glamorous in
their gowns and I liked that and decided that
was what I wanted to be,” she said.
Bryan has achieved those dreams and
dozens more.
After attending Volusia
County Community College (now Daytona
State College) for two years, she enrolled at
B-CC and now is an esteemed graduate of
the same college located right up the street
from her home. However, the institution she
remembered is no longer a college but now a
university.
Those young ladies in pink and green are
now her sorority sisters. Bryan relishes the
memories of pledging on the same campus
she knew as a child. To further cement the relationship between her and the school, two of
her children also attended B-CU.
Bryan graduated from B-CU in 1964
with a degree in physical education. She
began teaching then pursued a master’s degree in guidance supervision and administration at Florida Technological University (now
University of Central Florida) in 1971.
As a teacher, she served at Conway,
Meadow Brooks, Carver and Memorial Middle Schools and also the historic Jones High
School in Orlando.
After teaching for 23 years, Bryan became a counselor and administrator in the
Orange County Public School System from
another 13 years. During her teaching career,
she also served as a coach and was even recognized as the most outstanding coach in Orange County. Later, after she accepted an
administrator role and was recognized as an
outstanding counselor.
She fondly recalled her decision to become a counselor.
“As a coach, the kids were always coming to me with various problems and issues. I
would refer them to the school counselor but
they always preferred to speak to me. I
thought to myself, ‘I should be getting paid
for this,’” she said.
Bryan and husband, John, are staunch
supporters of the University. Bryan laughed
when asked about her “retirement.” She retired from Orange County in 2001, but remains very busy.
“It seems I am working harder now than
I ever worked on my job,” she said. “I sit on
a couple of different boards for the county so
things stay interesting. I’m usually on the go.
People always say ‘get Lee to do it.’ They ask
me to sit for this and stand in for that. I truly
try to stay involved and keep busy,” she said.
Bryan wasn’t joking about staying busy.
She is involved numerous organizations including: The National Hook-up of Black
Women, which promotes health awareness to
Black Women, The Moderneer Social Civic
Club, which presents The Young Men of Tomorrow (A group of young male achievers).
Bryan choreographs the group’s dance routines.
Additionally, she is a member of the
General Daniel “Chappie” James, Jr. Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, and a poll volunteer with the League of Women Voters and
works extensively at the polls during elections. Bryan is also an active member of the
local AKA Alumnae chapter.
A Family that gives together
Bryan cherishes her husband of 51 years.
Mr. Bryan is retired from the United Parcel
Service.
Together, they have put in some serious
community service hours and continue to be
active in the Orlando community. The pair
served as parade marshals in the 2009 Homecoming parade.
Having two children who also graduated
Top (from left): Debra Bryan, John Jr., Nikki Joseph; bottom (from left) Lee and John Bryan
from B-CU is a personal milestone for Bryan.
“Some children don’t want to go to the
same University as their parents. I’m extremely proud they chose B-CU. Because of
this we share another kind of bond,” she said.
Much of the Bryans’ volunteer efforts
are focused on raising funds and awareness
about sickle cell disease through the Sickle
Cell Disease Association of Orange County.
Mrs. Bryan serves as the president of the
group while her husband serves as financial
secretary.
They have organized walkathons, and
played host to the 2009 annual conference of
the National Sickle Cell Disease Association.
With regards to giving back to her alma
mater, Bryan continues to answer the call.
Take notice of the new Larry R. Handfield
Athletic Training Center soon to be built.
Bryan was an integral part of making it a reality. She served as co-chair of the steering
committee, which organized the successful
$4.6 million fundraising effort to build the
new facility. In addition, she has served as
alumni representative to the B-CU board of
trustees and is active in the Orange County
alumni chapter.
Giving back through mentorship
Bryan further illustrates her love for BCU athletics by mentoring two of the players
on the team. One of the youngsters is Eddie
Poole, who is a wide receiver for the ‘Cats.
21
Their bond was made even stronger during
the game against Morgan State University.
Eddie Poole (#3) caught a 70-yard strike on
the first play from scrimmage.
It was a play Bryan called as an honorary
coach for the game. The Wildcats went on to
thrash MSU 69-32. Bryan was ecstatic.
“Eddie later told me he wanted the
coach to call the play again. Obviously it
worked,” she mused. “He is a very talented,
smart young man with a bright future. I think
he will go far. I simply love helping young
people,” she said.
Bryan also has adopted Head Coach
Brian Jenkins.
“I had the opportunity to get to know
him and believe he is a God-sent man. I take
him under my wing,” she said. “He introduced me to his mother and said I was his
other mother away from home. I admire him
so much because he has done so much. That
truly what it is about. Giving yourself. It goes
for all of us, especially B-CU alumni. Sure
every institution has its issues but the fact remains that you received your degree from BCU. A certain amount of love and loyalty
should result from that in the form of giving
back.”
Words of wisdom from a woman who
truly knows a thing or two about the joy and
benefits of giving.
ALUMNI CHAPTER
SPOTLIGHT
<< Miami-Dade Alumni Chapter is one to watch
Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve:
Miami-Dade Chapter on the Move!
GINA SANDERS
PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR
The Miami-Dade Alumni chapter is a
family making strides in their community.
These Wildcats bleed Maroon and Gold.
The Chapter has worked diligently resulting in tremendous progress over the years.
Under the leadership of Carol Weatherington, the chapter has received numerous
awards both locally and nationally. The
chapter has a history of pulling its resources
together to reach the goals that they set.
Giving back to the community is always
a goal of this chapter. In addition to offering
numerous scholarships, the chapter members
have served as mentors and has supported
and nurtured several outstanding students
with demonstrated need who have attended
B-CU.
As the chapter’s awards were announced
during The 2009 National Convention, the
gratified sense of accomplishment and pride
was felt. There are many in the chapter to be
commended for their efforts. However, a
prominent couple in the community, Mr. and
Mrs. Charlie Davis, have volunteered substantial hours and spent tireless years promoting Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s legacy.
Chapter member Audley Coakley, described the pulse of the chapter with regards
to community service and fundraising.
“Our chapter always takes an aggressive
and eager approach to demands that require
the execution of leadership qualities,” he
said.
Such an approach is the successful campaign of the basketball arena, a mandate set
by the University to raise $4 Million, an expected goal in this $20 million project.
Chapter President Carol Weatherington
also is proud of the efforts.
“Miami-Dade, is a truly remarkable
In Loving Memory
LET’S STAY
CONNECTED
VISIT US ONLINE
DECEASED ALUMNI
www.BCU-NAA.com
JULY 13, 2010 - NOVEMBER 11, 2010
Get your Memberships
Register for the Convention
Find a Local Chapter
and much more
NAME
CLASS OF
CITY, STATE
ANDREA HINSON-WILLIS
ANGELA DENISE JACKSON
BEAUFORD JONES MOORE
TITIANA RACHEL NAAR MOXEY
BETTYE JONES BETHUNE
CEPHUS FRYER, SR.
ELOISE R. BROWN EDWARDS-SNELL
LEROY BROWN
MARY ALICE RUSHING WILLIAMS
PATRICIA ANN INGRAM WARREN
PRINCE OLIVER, SR.
FREDERICA HALL NIX
REV. GOLDEN SMITH
1980
1976
1951
ATTENDED
1956
ATTENDED
1949
1962
1957
1971
1950
1949
1947
TAMPA, FL
DAYTONA BEACH, FL
DAYTONA BEACH, FL
HAITI
DAYTONA BEACH, FL
DAYTONA BEACH, FL
DAYTONA BEACH, FL
DELAND, FL
BARTOW, FL
MIAMI, FL
DAYTONA BEACH, FL
GAINESVILLE, FL
DAYTONA BEACH, FL
22
chapter,” said Weatherington. “Their involvement has not only touched all alumni
with a positive image of our institution, but
has spurred spirited school pride for others to
emulate. They have remained an integral
part of the school’s distinguished history and
legacy of productive leaders, and for this I am
extremely grateful.”
Miami-Dade Chapter boasts many
alumni who have defined their service in high
profile positions with the University as well
as the National Alumni Association. One
such individual is Dr. Larry Handfield, Esq.,
Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Three
chapter members are among those that shape
policy through their presence as officers and
trustees in the national organization.
The love of B-CU and the promotion of
its mission shows in the work of more than
20 honorary members of the Miami-Dade
alumni chapter, who participate fervently
and with dedication.
23
SPORTS: I GOT NEXT
<< Sports Column by Karsceal Turner, Editor-In-Chief
Photo: John Reeves
Coach Jenkins has WIL
running like a WELL-O
24
continue to be examples of what
“ Wea will
student-athlete should be all about.
”
-- Coach Jenkins
LDCAT FOOTBALL
-OILED MACHINE
KARSCEAL TURNER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Thus far, the 2010 football season has
been the stuff that dreams are made of.
Especially if you are a 39-year-old in his
inaugural season as the Head Football
Coach at a program, which has been hanging basketball scores on it opponents.
Okay, maybe a couple of those
weren’t basketball scores but you get the
picture. After a stellar season, it has come
to this. Make no mistake; there are only
two games Wildcat faithfuls really care
about. Homecoming and the Florida
Classic, these two games make the difference in whether a coach has a contract or
not. Act like you know.
As always, Jenkins shows little emotion to the great start. He refuses to look
any further than the current game. “We
simply try to come out every game and
play Wildcat football. We are going to
practice hard and play hard every contest.
We will continue to be examples of what a
student-athlete should be all about.”
Setting a precedence
It’s true, the Wildcats made quick
work of EWC and SSU, which were both
clearly overmatched. Later, doubts arose
about B-CU’s ability to get it done on the
road. They went into hostile environments and took care of business.
It is safe to say the stigma of walking
in the footsteps of one of the most stylish
coaches of this era is indeed ended. A 70 start will surely help you create your own
stigma. Need a recap of the basketball
scores to-date? B-CU vs. Edward Waters
70-10, B-CU vs. Savannah Sate 42-7, BCU vs. Norfolk State 21-7, B-CU vs. Morgan State 69-32, B-CU vs. Delaware State
47-24, B-CU vs. South Carolina State 140. They also went into Durham, N.C. and
dismantled NCCU 23-10. Because of
Legacy Press time, we couldn’t provide
any further scores.
However, we have arrived at the one
other game this season which counts in the
mind of thousands of B-CU loyalists.
Since 1997, a total of 875,089 fans
have watched the Florida Classic in the
Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, an average
of 67,315 per year. The 2003 game stands
as the largest crowd ever in the series 73,358.
Overall, the Rattlers lead the series,
48-15-1. Bethune-Cookman has made the
series more competitive since 1973, winning 12 of its 15 series victories during that
span, including a 58-52 overtime win in
2004, which was the first-ever three-game
winning streak for the ‘Cats. Since the
game has come to Orlando, FAMU has
won nine of 13 games against B-CU,
though the Wildcats have been victorious
in four of the last eight.
Thus far, FAMUs record is not in-
25
Photo: Karsceal Turner
dicative of the Classic series. Currently,
the Rattlers are 3-5 overall and 2-1 in conference play. Their losses were at the
hands of SCSU whom B-CU shut-out and
whom the Wildcats also kicked to sleep.
This ladies and gentlemen is the Florida
Classic. Both these teams get an extra
dose of adrenaline for this game. In the
midst of this madness, I must give a shout
out to my boy Allen Suber, who is putting
work as the receivers coach for the Wildcats. He knows all too well what this atmosphere is about and I have no doubt, he
will have those guys ready to catch ALL
the passes. It will surely be a barn-burner
at the Florida Citrus Bowl as we once
again try an answer the question “Who
will ascend to the top of the mountain!”
<< SEE SPORTS, PAGE 26
As far as “ballin” skills it is clearly a case
of “like father, like son”. However, let us remember, “nary” a game has been played yet.
Our boys have to prove themselves on the
hardwood. I shall be the loudest, rowdiest,
alumni in the Moore Gymnasium. Come
join me!
Coach Jack "Cy" McClairen
receives honor
Photo: Karsceal Turner
The Legacy Walk
SPORTS, FROM PAGE 25
Are you ready for
Wildcat Basketball?
The Florida Classic culminates the football season and ushers in the B-CU Basketball season the same way the fall yields to
winter. Head Coach Clifford Reed looks to
build off the momentum of his teams’ backto-back winning seasons with further advancement into the MEAC tournament.
Reed assured me that this year the Cats
would advance beyond the second round.
“We expect to win it all,” he said
through a wide grin. “My expectation for
this team is for it to compete for a championship on the court and in life. I believe we
can prosper by emulating the will and determination of the Founder along with hard
work and prayer,” he said.
The success of last season has been rewarded. After a season, in which the 'Cats
finished 17-16 and were picked in preseason
rankings to finish fourth, behind Morgan
State, South Carolina State, and Hampton.
Reed has pointed to a trio of players
whom he expects to lead his team to a coveted MEAC title; Albert Abrahams, Alexander Starling, and his namesake, C.J. Reed.
"Albert Abrahams is the best skilled big
player we've ever had here at B-CU. He has
good feet, good hands and he will solidify the
inside for us on offense and defense. He can
hit the 15-foot jump shot and is very light on
his feet, you don't realize he is that big (320
pounds). Another returning player is Alexander Starling. He is the best defender in our
league,” said Reed. “He’s always among the
tops in steals and rebounds. His tenacity and
tough play will guide us this season.”
C.J. Reed, was a 2009-10 HBCU second
team All-American, was named to the preseason MEAC first team, and became a 1,000
point scorer (1,015) at the 2010 MEAC Tournament in Winston-Salem, N.C., after a season averaging 15.8 PPG.
On Saturday, October 16, 2010, Coach
“Cy” McClairen walked the red carpet at the
eight annual Onyx Awards. This program annually honors persons having made outstanding contributions to people in the State
of Florida. Approximately 600 people witnessed Coach McClairen receive the Lifetime
Achievement Award in sports. In his acceptance remarks, the audience was enthused
with his comical account of how he got to
Bethune-Cookman instead of FAMU.
While attending Bethune-Cookman he
earned 12 varsity letters in football, basketball
and track. McClairen was the first “Wildcat”
to be drafted into the ranks of professional
football. After fulfilling a two- year tour of
duty in the United States Army, he began a
successful career in the NFL with the Pittsburg Steelers. In 1958, he was named to the
NFL All-Pro team.
Coach McClairen has served his alma
mater for over a half century as a student athlete, teacher, coach, administrator, mentor
and friend to thousands of students. He is the
most successful basketball coach in the history of our institution. He served as Director
of Athletics from 1961-1972. He was inducted into the Florida State Sports Hall of
Fame in 1988. In 2008, he was inducted into
the Mid-Eastern Athletic Association
(MEAC) Sports Hall of Fame. Congratulations
Coach Jack “Cy” McClairen!
It’s all about the Alumni of the Great
Bethune-Cookman University.
We want to know about your good news.
Contribute your success
stories, press releases,
photos and ideas to
Legacy Magazine by
emailing: [email protected]
26
POINTS OF LIGHT
<< Distinguished alumni, Harry Morris gives back
Giving never goes
out of style to
“Handsome Harry
Morris”
live for the day when we will all
“ Icome
together and be more
supportive of our rich legacy.”
BY GINA SANDERS
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS
Longtime B-CU supporter Harry T.
“Handsome Harry” Morris Sr., is no stranger to
the art of giving. He gave as an enlisted U.S.
Army Medical Corps soldier and assisted with
the care of hundreds of injured U.S. servicemen,
he gave during his tenure as a Hillsborough
County Driver’s Education teacher for over
three decades, and he continues to give today.
The Tampa resident is also a man of distinction, a visionary educator, a leader of conviction, faith, integrity, and perseverance, a
nurturing and caring individual, a loving spouse
and a family man. Most of all, he is an admired
humanitarian.
In 1946, Morris graduated from Don
Thompson Vocational High School and was the
first all-state basketball player in the county. He
joined the United States Army in 1948 and
served honorably for four years. During his time
in-service, he studied and excelled in pharmacy
with memorable experiences during days of
prejudices.
He was the first to set-up the pharmacy laboratory in Percy Jones Hospital in Battle Creek,
Mich. As a sports fanatic he played on the army
basketball team and made lasting friendships.
Additionally, he had the unforgettable experience of receiving the first quadruple amputee
from the Korean War when the victim was
flown to Percy Jones Hospital from Germany.
-- Harry Morris
After he was discharged from the military,
Morris decided to travel to Philadelphia to pursue a career in medicine. On his way there, he
made a two-hour trip to Daytona Beach in 1952
to say “hello and good-bye” to two childhood
best friends who were attending then B-CC.
“My friends Charles Brady and Melvin
Dennard were seniors who were graduating,”
Morris said. “I was on my way to Philadelphia
to pursue a career in Pharmacy. They encouraged me to give B-CC one year and the rest is
history. I graduated in 1956 with a B.S. in the
field of science, and then went on to earn an
M.A. in administration and supervision from
FAMU in 1978.”
The G.I. Bill afforded Morris the opportunity for a higher education along with odd jobs
in Daytona Beach. He made history and paved
the way for many B-CU students when he became the first student waiter employed at S&S
cafeteria in 1952.
Before that time, the café had a no student
worker policy. After integration, he dined in
S&S and was elated to see other students working there.
“President (Richard V.) Moore often used
me to serve guests in his private dining room and
remarked, ‘this young man is on a scholarship,’”
Morris said.
After graduation Morris returned home to
serve and build on a rich legacy and a historic
mission. He was actively involved with the Tilt
27
of Maroon and Gold Classic and Florida Classic. The Hillsborough Chapter of the National
Alumni Association has benefited for many
years from his wisdom and service as treasurer,
business manager, historian etc.
Harry has dedicated his life to strengthening the philosophies of education and empowering the minds of his students as a Driver’s
Education instructor in Hillsborough County
for more than 35 years. His moral, intellectual
and spiritual reputation has created bonds of respect, admiration and friendship with others
throughout his community.
His life has truly been one of vision, purpose and service. He holds life memberships in
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., B-CU National Alumni Association, NAACP, and is an
associate life member of the National Council
of Negro Women. He has received special BCU awards including Shaft of Light and Edward R. Rodriguez.
Morris is affectionately known as “Handsome Harry” attends most B-CU football games
and National Conventions. Because of his love
and dedication to his alma mater, he simply
does not understand the lack of alumni support
until Florida Classic and Homecoming.
“I live for the day when we will all come together and be more supportive of our rich
legacy,” he added.
Morris attends the St. Peter Claver Catholic
Church. He is married to Lucille, his wife of 52
years. He met Lucille in front of the old log
cabin (once on B-CU’s campus) and they became campus sweethearts. They are the proud
parents of two sons Harry Morris Jr. (Debra)
and Michael; one granddaughter, Amanda Simmons, (Henry); one grandson, Darrin and three
great-grandchildren.
FEATURE STORY
<< Bethune-Cookman Marching Wildcats
combines Family with Funk
Photo: John Reeves
B-CU Marching Wildcats 2009 Florida Classic
Marching Pride Combines
Family with Funk
KARSCEAL TURNER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Most spectators at HBCU football games
across the Nation are more enamored with
the halftime performances of the band then
the football game itself. However, what those
same spectators don’t know is that the crisp
movements, high stepping routines, and blaring sounds of the band were produced with
sweat, blood, and tears…along with hours
and hours of perfecting.
This is about preparation. The Florida
Classic is no different. Much of the marching
season is linked to this game in some fashion
or other if only for the anticipation amongst
B-CU and FAMU fans. However, preparation for each performance is the same…high
octane.
The Marching Wildcats are a 325 member unit which includes instrumentalists, the
Sophisticat Flag Corp, and the 14 Karat
28
Gold Dancers.
The nationally famous 14 Karat Gold
dancers are made up of select young ladies
who exemplify exceptional dance skills,
poise, and class and can dancers can be seen
frequently in BET video clips promoting
Black Colleges.
The members of the Marching Wildcats
know this all too well. Before many students
pack to leave home, the Pride was already settled in on campus, going over dozens of precision routines, and digesting throngs of sheet
music. Game attendees have no idea about
band training camp – two weeks of three-aday practices in the band room and outdoors
in the Florida heat. Once classes start, band
students practice at least three hours a night,
five nights a week, throughout football season.
While other students are meeting new
friends, attending socials, and participating in
collegiate extra-curricular activities, band
members are meeting section leaders, participating in drills, and attending practices
which last well into the evening hours. This
is what it takes to stand out from the rest and
be the best at your craft. Band Director
Donovan Wells is a perfectionist, it shows
each time the Pride takes the field. As an
alumnus of the band he now directs, Wells
wouldn’t have it any other way.
All in the Family
Perhaps the most striking thing about
this father of nearly 300 collegiate students is
the fact that with Wells, it isn’t all about the
band. He personally recruits some of the
members from highs schools in Alabama,
Georgia, Florida, Virginia, the Carolinas, and
Maryland.
<< SEE BAND, PAGE 30
EVENT FEATURE
<< B-CU NAA Alumni Convention
is an event to remember
B-CU CELEBRATES ITS RICH HERITAGE
AT ANNUAL CONVENTION
By Gina Sanders
Public Relations Director
Each year, a new standard is set with regards to the B-CU National Alumni Convention. The 42nd event was no different. Alumni
chapters from across the nation made their way
to the first coast. Few words or expressions
could adequately define the overwhelming experience and celebratory atmosphere.
The Nassau – Duval Chapter located in
Jacksonville should be commended for accepting the challenge to host this impressive event at
the beautiful facility of the Sawgrass Marriott
Golf Resort and Spa in Ponte Vedra, June 16 –
19, 2010.
The theme, “One Vision, One Purpose,
One Direction,” embodied and echoed the
philosophies of B-CU founder Dr. Mary
McLeod Bethune and was a fitting reawakening
to the purpose of continuing the quest for higher
learning.
More than118 registrants enjoyed the festivities, which included a golf tourney, training
sessions, a comedy show, the Miss Alumni
Coronation, an awards ceremony, and a Sunday
Necrology presentation.
Newly elected alumni president A. Ray
Brinson was pleased with the outcome and
looked at it as a springboard to the 43rd con-
vention to be held in the Bahamas this summer.
“I thought it was an enjoyable event. I
thought the volunteers did an exceptional job,”
he said. “It was a total team effort with different
faces each night. This was an excellent example
for future conventions. We must get input from
participants, fine tune and enhance them for the
following year,” he said.
The conference provided alumni with
many stimulating activities from the opening
ceremony to the finale. By assembling alumni
from far and near, everyone was able to rekindle friendships, reflect on B-CU’s proud history,
reminisce about the unique experiences shared
at the University and plan for an even brighter
future.
Attendees participated in several informative workshops to enhance the alumni’s vision,
passion and action for the progress of the institution. All questions, issues and ongoing concerns of chapters’ effectiveness, organizational
role and leadership skills were answered. Attendees were often reminded to encourage and
motivate younger graduates to become actively
involved.
A resounding applause must be conveyed
to the newly elected members. A. Ray Brinson,
president; Audley Coakley, alumni representative to the Board of Trustees and John Williams,
29
parliamentarian.
As a result of team work, effective planning and a shared vision, many awards were
presented to well deserving alumni and their
prospective chapters. Congratulations to all the
recipients for their continued support to B-CU
as a beacon of academic excellence.
Mingled within an elegant atmosphere
Former Miss National Alumni Rose Roland
(Volusia Chapter) passed the crown to Kimberly
Simmons (Palm Beach). The other newly
crowned queens are: Miss Maroon, Gladeez
McCoy (Miami-Dade) and Miss Gold, Patricia
McGowan (Big Bend).
The gathering spoke volumes of the tenacity, endurance, positive commitment and high
standards that have remained constant over the
years by dedicated alumni.
As a promise to uphold a positive threshold for generations to come, the B-CU NAA
was pleased to announce the 2011 National
Conference in Nassau, Bahamas. This jewel in
the Caribbean Sea and a hideaway with its
sandy white beaches, tropical flora and fauna,
will not only captivate and rejuvenate the
essence of a legacy, but will also guarantee another milestone of essential productivity. Save
the date: “It’s better in the Bahamas” – June 1619, 2011.
Photo: John Reeves
Photo: John Reeves
I want them to take away the sense of being responsible, of
“doing
the job, of getting places on time, being able to compete.
This is a competitive world. When school is complete these kids
have got to be able to compete for positions, promotions, and raises.
”
-- Donovan Wells
<< BAND, FROM PAGE 28
He is concerned with his students’ preparation for Matriculation through life, beyond
the friendly confines of the campus.
“First of all I want them to enjoy it—but
what I want them to take away has nothing
to do with music. I want them to take away
the sense of being responsible, of doing the
job, of getting places on time, being able to
compete. This is a competitive world. When
school is complete these kids have got to be
able to compete for positions, promotions,
and raises. I hope that they take some of the
skills learned here on the field and in the
classroom and apply it to their area of expertise in whatever career they are involved. I
want our students to be able to say ‘Mr. Wells
had us ready’. It is the best gift I could ever
receive for my services to B-CU,” he said.
One of the ties that bind Wells to his students is the fact they literally are from the
same B-CU Band family. Wells arrived at
Bethune-Cookman in 1980 and graduated in
’84 he was a standout trumpet player for the
Pride. After leaving B-CC the first time, he
taught public school in Virginia for 14 years
and served at Hampton University for a short
time. He also earned his graduate degree
from Norfolk State University.
In 1996 Wells received the phone call
that brought him home. “Bethune called me
and wanted me to come back as assistant
band director. I returned in 96’ and the following year I was promoted to director of
30
bands. Right by his side is his dedicated staff,
whom has over 100 years of experience combined. There are: James Poitier, Pedro Orey,
Ernest Hamilton, and Horatio Walker.
Classic only one of
many venues for Pride
The Florida Classic is but one of the venues this collection of musicians will entertain
during the course of a season. With each
passing year, the notoriety expands further.
In 2000, the band was thrust into the national
spotlight by being featured in Black Voices
magazine, and having performed during the
halftime of MTV’s Rock n’ Jock game. It
seems those highlights were a springboard of
greater things to come.
They have performed at halftime shows
for the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Tampa
Bay Buccaneers, at the pre-race show of the
Daytona 500 and on "The Ellen Degeneres
Show." In addition, the band appeared on the
ABC Walt Disney World Christmas Special,
EA Sports Video Soundtrack, and was spotlighted in the television commercial for the
Cadillac DTS. It has been selected to multiple appearances at the Honda Battle of the
Bands and also has performed at the NFL
Pro Bowl and in Super Bowl pre-game festivities.
Still, those accolades gave way to the
show stealing performance in 2002’s 20th
Century Fox film “Drumline”. Mr. Wells ex-
pounded on the thrill of filming the movie.
“Doing the movie ‘Drumline’ was a
proud moment for me because here you are
having the first movie made about Black
bands, and we were asked to be a part of it. It
gave us some validation that what we were
doing was heading in the right direction and
appreciated,” he said.
The band is currently being filmed by
ESPNU, the network that features college
sports. An ESPN spokesman said plans for
the program have not been finalized and they
will not discuss participants, but that it is a
“potential series to air in the fall that will
showcase the great traditions" of marching
bands from Historically Black Colleges and
Universities.
Wells said a production company for
ESPN is following Bethune-Cookman and
Florida A&M University (FAMU) to document the bands leading up to and including
the Florida Classic game in Orlando in November.
Another performance Wells said was
memorable was the opening of the Daytona
500 for Fox Sports. “Playing at a packed
football stadium is one thing and can be intimidating in itself, but playing at the Daytona with 250,000 fans is another level of
intimidation. Every time we perform, we
want the crowd to enjoy it and feel like they
are a part of it.”
Mission accomplished Mr. Wells.
31

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