The YES! Weekly Blog: North Carolina A&T State University

Showing posts with label North Carolina A&T State University. Show all posts

Media Personality Sheryl Underwood to “Take Over” N.C. A&T Radio Studios

"Nationally known comedienne, talk show host and actress Sheryl Underwood is set to take over the airwaves at North Carolina A&T State University’s WNAA studios from 3-5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 2, 2016.

Underwood will dish and deliver the quick-witted and humorous dialogue she is so well-known for, along with music provided by WNAA’s DJ Jimmy Jam. The “Sheryl Underwood Takeover” marks the first time Underwood, who’s syndicated talk show airs every weeknight on WNAA at 10 p.m., has broadcast a live show on A&T’s campus.

While on campus, Underwood will promote her search for “College Reporters” for The Sheryl Underwood Radio Show, in which students will be able to gain significant hands-on experience.

Underwood began her career in comedy during a time in which there were very few successful African-American female comediennes. In addition to her roles as co-host of CBS’s “The Talk,” and host of “The Sheryl Underwood Radio Show,” she is a multimedia entrepreneur, and philanthropist.

Underwood is the owner and CEO of Pack Rat Productions, Inc.; a national spokesperson for Kimberly-Clark’s DEPEND Underawareness Campaign; the 23^rd International President of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.; and founder and CEO of the Pack Rat Foundation for Education, which raises money to support 105 Historically Black Colleges and Universities and their students.

Underwood holds a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a master’s degree in Media Management Mass Communication from Governor State University."

- A Press Release

BioSolar Adds N.C. A&T Engineering Team to Strengthen Efforts to Increase Capacity and Reduce Cost of Lithium-ion Batteries

"BioSolar, Inc., a developer of breakthrough energy storage technology and materials, has entered into a new sponsored research agreement with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to strengthen the engineering development efforts of its battery technology. The company’s goal is to increase the capacity and reduce the cost of lithium-ion batteries.

Dr. Sung-Jin Cho, assistant professor in the Department of Nanoengineering at North Carolina A&T State University, will be the lead investigator of the newly initiated sponsored research. Cho also serves as Director of Nano Energy Laboratory, a role he has held since August 2014. Prior to his current position, Cho was a technical lead at Johnson Controls Inc., Battery Technology Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from 2008 to 2014. He led the United States Advanced Battery Consortium (USABC) program to design and evaluate battery material and lithium-ion cell engineering for automotive application for over six years. Prior to pursuing his Ph.D. in the U.S., Cho worked on lithium-ion battery technology development in Korea, and held a number of positions at LG. His research encompasses fundamental materials studies such as catastrophic failure mechanism study, synthesis and physical characterization, as well as device and system design and fabrication.

This agreement represents a natural progression from the scientific development phase represented by the company’s existing sponsored research program at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), now scheduled to conclude in October 2016. In place since 2014, this agreement and subsequent scientific efforts have resulted in the creation of innovative intellectual properties that form the basis of BioSolar’s critical core technologies. The company currently co-owns two patent-applications for a supercapacitor technology and its super cathode technology with UCSB.

“We are excited to have Dr. Cho lead our new engineering and commercialization program at North Carolina A&T State University,” said Dr. David Lee, CEO of BioSolar. “His experience in developing high energy lithium batteries and process development draws many parallels to what we are seeking to build upon. We believe this new effort will positively complement our previous activities at UCSB, bringing us one step closer to achieving our corporate objectives and ultimately realizing value on behalf of our shareholders.”

BioSolar is developing a breakthrough technology to double the storage capacity, lower the cost and extend the life of lithium-ion batteries. A battery contains two major parts, a cathode and an anode, that function together as the positive and negative sides. Inspired by nature, BioSolar is developing a novel cathode based on inexpensive conductive polymers and organic materials that can fully utilize the storage capacity of conventional anodes. Founded with the vision of developing breakthrough energy technologies, BioSolar's previous successes include the world's first UL approved bio-based back sheet for use in solar panels.

About North Carolina A&T State University
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is the nation’s largest historically black university. It is a land-grant, higher research university and constituent member of the University of North Carolina system. A&T is known for its leadership in producing graduates in engineering, agriculture and other STEM fields. The university was founded in 1891 and is located in Greensboro, North Carolina. "

- A Press Release

N.C. A&T Partners with Zipcar to Offer Car Sharing on Campus

"North Carolina A&T State University has launched a new partnership with Zipcar, the world’s leading car sharing network, to offer a Zipcar car sharing program on campus. The transportation option is now available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for students, faculty, and staff ages 18 and older, as well as members of the local community over the age of 21.

N.C. A&T will initially offer three vehicles—two Ford Focuses named “Jasen” and “Jeslyn” and a Volkswagen Golf named “Grunwald.” The Zipcars will have designated parking spots located in a campus lot outside the parking deck and Aggie Dome for convenient pick-up and return.

This year, N.C. A&T members can join for $15, with rates for Zipcar vehicles on campus starting at $7.50 per hour and $69 per day. After the first year, members will have an option to pay an annual membership fee of $25. Gas, insurance and up to 180 miles of driving per day are included in Zipcar rates, and cars can be reserved for as little as an hour or for multiple days.

“We are delighted to partner with Zipcar to bring a service that is tailored to the needs of our students,” said Angela Peterson, N.C. A&T associate vice chancellor for campus enterprises. “Our students will be excited and truly inspired by the opportunity to have mobility, flexibility and convenience within the footprint of their campus, giving them an alternative solution for transportation. We look forward to a successful partnership.”

Zipcar members with iPhones and Android devices may download the Zipcar mobile app to make reservations, lock and unlock the vehicles and honk the horn to help locate the vehicle. Reservations can also be made over the phone or on Zipcar’s website.

“The Zipcar program on campus gives students, faculty and staff the freedom of using a car without the hassle of owning one,” said Katelyn Bushey, Zipcar director of university sales. “We’re happy to partner with N.C. A&T, to give their community a transportation option to fit their needs and their wallet.”

N.C. A&T students, faculty and staff can join Zipcar at http://www.zipcar.com/NCAT.

Zipcar is a leading car sharing network, driven by a mission to enable simple and responsible urban living. The company operates in urban areas and university campuses in over 500 cities and towns across Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States. Zipcar is a subsidiary of Avis Budget Group, Inc., a global provider of vehicle rental services.

- A Press Release

A&T Alumni Homecoming Concert to Feature “The Whispers”

"North Carolina A&T State University boasts the Greatest Homecoming on Earth and for good reason. Each year thousands of alumni, students, family and friends converge on the City of Greensboro for an abundance of fun-filled and inspirational events than one person couldn’t possibly pack into one week, but that doesn’t keep everyone from trying.

The Aggie Alumni Homecoming Concert, presented by the North Carolina A&T Real Estate Foundation always draws a huge crowd and this year looks to be no different. This year’s concert, with the theme “It Just Gets Better with Time,” will feature legendary R&B crooners, The Whispers, on Friday, Oct. 28 at 8:30 p.m. at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Since 1963, The Whispers have been mesmerizing audiences with their tight harmonies and chart-topping songs such as “And the Beat Goes On,” “Lady,” and “Rock Steady.” The group boasts seven gold albums, two platinum albums, 12 Top 20 Singles, American Music, Soul Train and Grammy Award nominations and an NAACP Image Award.

Timeless vocalist, Stephanie Mills will be a special concert guest. Mills is an award-winning R&B and Gospel singer, songwriter and Broadway star. From her well-known role as Dorothy in “The Wiz,” to hit songs such as “I Feel Good All Over” and “I Have Learned to Respect the Power of Love,” she continues to be a favorite among music and theatre lovers of all ages.

General admission tickets are on sale for $120 each with general event tables of 10 seats at $1,200. Reserved tables of 10 are available at a cost of $1,400, $2,800 and $5,000. The N.C. A&T Real Estate Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit institution. Some reserved tables will receive a charitable deduction.

Money raised from the concert will be used to fund A&T student scholarships.

The university’s annual homecoming celebration will begin Sunday, Oct. 23 and continue through Sunday, Oct. 30, with daily activities and events, including the homecoming parade, football game versus the Florida A&M Rattlers and Aggie FanFest. Highlighted alumni events will also include the 37^th Annual Richard E. Moore Memorial Golf Tournament, Fall Convocation, the Former Miss A&T Luncheon, the coronation for Mister and Miss A&T, the homecoming comedy show, concerts and more.

- A Press Release

SENIOR CLASS AT BENNETT LEAVES BEHIND A MURAL AS ITS CLASS GIFT

"GREENSBORO, NC — The senior class had such great experiences during its four years at Bennett College that they wanted to leave a symbol of their experiences for other classes to enjoy.

Members of Bennett College Class of 2016 commissioned Khyri Headen Crawford, a recent fine arts graduate of North Carolina A&T State University, to paint a mural that is located on the lower level of the David D. Jones Student Union Building.

“I received my inspiration from the ladies,” said Crawford, who spent about 168 hours on the project. “I’m actually happy and surprised about the final results.”

According to Jasmine Everett, president of the senior Class, there are elements of the mural that represent different facets of the Class of 2016.

When the students enrolled in 2008, Obama’s slogan of “Yes We Can,” resonated with the young women. The young girl in the mural represents the mentoring that takes place between students, the community and alumnae. The Afro puff in the young girl’s hair represents the “Black Lives Matter” movement. The mural also includes lyrics that have been included in the seniors’ class song. The mural also includes the names of the residence halls that were open during their first year and descriptive words highlighting the characteristics of the Class of 2016.

The commencement for members of the senior class is scheduled Saturday, May 7, 2016, at 10 a.m. in the Quadrangle at Bennett College."

- A Press Release

Excitement Builds for N.C. A&T’s Final 125th Anniversary Events

"North Carolina A&T State University has been celebrating its 125th anniversary during the 2015-16 academic year, and the celebration culminates with two major events – the Birthday Bash in March and the 125th Anniversary Scholarship Gala in April.

The entire community is invited to come out and celebrate at the fun-filled Birthday Bash from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thurs., Mar. 24, at Aggie Stadium. The carnival-style party is free and open to the public. It features food and games as well as music by the Blue and Gold Marching Machine and WNAA 90.1 FM – and much more. With bounce houses, laser tag, archery, face painting, obstacle courses, concessions, trivia and bingo, there will be something for every member of the family. The beloved Aggie and Aggietha mascots will be on hand for photos and the N.C. A&T cheerleaders will also be a part of the fun. The evening will conclude with a magnificent fireworks display.

The Birthday Bash celebrates A&T’s milestone and its countless community partners.

The university will conclude its anniversary celebration with a major fundraiser created to support the goal of raising $1.25 million for student scholarships. The black-tie 125th Anniversary Scholarship Gala will be held at 6 p.m., on Sat., April 23, at the Grandover Resort and Conference Center in Greensboro, North Carolina.

The Scholarship Gala will begin with a reception, followed by a small program. A unique, Tony-Award-winning performance by students promises to be a hit. The evening will also include the presentation of special legacy awards. Live entertainment will be provided by the band EnVision, performing hits from the 60s to the sounds of today’s Top 40.

Tickets for the 125th Anniversary Scholarship Gala go on sale on Mar.7, and may be purchased by calling 336-433-5560.

North Carolina A&T State University was established on Mar. 9, 1891, as a land-grant institution through the mandates and provisions of the Second Morrill Act of 1890.

- A Press Release

Police Chief Wayne Scott Offers Departmental Actions Related to Racial Disparities

"GREENSBORO, NC (October 28, 2015) – Greensboro Police Chief Wayne Scott provides the following in follow up to community concerns and questions raised regarding the recent New York Times article highlighting racial disparities in policing in Greensboro.

“I want to reassure the Greensboro community that I and the entire police department remain very concerned by the data and information shared in this week’s New York Times article about racial disparities. The police department consists of hard working men and women who are required to act within the law and abide by a code of conduct and policies that specifically prohibit racial profiling (see attached). Clearly there is information that tells us problems and discrepancies exist and my staff and I are working to better understand the causes and to make appropriate changes to improve police interactions in our community.

The data revealed by the New York Times and information released by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill paints a complex and troubling picture. Prior to the release of that information, my team was working with consultants at North Carolina A&T State University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro to analyze our local data. I felt it was a needed step to help us better understand the causes and to help shape and inform future departmental policy and practice enhancements.

At this time, I’m expecting to have the results of our research in January. I plan to openly share the results with our entire community and will also ask for the assistance of my faith leadership council and bias-based policing committee to help our department plan and implement improvements.

As officers, we are always mindful of the value Greensboro residents place in us to perform our duties professionally and with utmost integrity. That’s why we strive to exercise sound discretion and conduct in the daily execution of activities including traffic enforcement, criminal investigations, field interviews, and asset/forfeiture seizures. It’s also why we consistently review our code of conduct and bias-based policing directives to remind our officers of their intended purposes and application and to reinforce departmental accountability. When officers fall short in those areas, they are held accountable.

Strengthening police relationships and trust within the community remains a top priority of mine. We’re continuing to review the strategies that I launched when I became Chief in April. They are designed to help us become a better police department that is a national model for exceptional policing through our commitment to excellence, selfless public service, and effective community partnerships. Meanwhile, in the coming weeks, I will announce a series of additional measures designed to aid the department in better connecting with the community we serve.

I again want to reassure the community that I take these matters very seriously and I will continue to openly share information in our follow-up on this and other important policing topics. We will also continue to be sensitive in our interactions, open-minded, good listeners, and focused on best meeting the needs of our community. Most importantly, we will work to build trust by acknowledging and embracing change if it means we will grow stronger together as a department and a city.”"

- A Press Release

Truffles and Grape Pomace are Focus of A&T Field Day

"The raw beginnings of a gourmet meal are on the menu – make that the field – during the 14^th annual Small Farms Field Day at North Carolina A&T State University, Thurs., June 11, 8:15 a.m.-noon, at the University Farm, 3136 McConnell Road in Greensboro.

Researchers and agricultural experts will showcase agricultural technology and techniques, and this year’s amalgam of demonstrations also lends itself to the ultimate food destination: the table. Authentic American-grown truffles, organic vegetables, pastured pork, and grape pomace that can be infused in bread, ground beef and other foods are among the topics.

The free, rain-or-shine event is sponsored by The Cooperative Extension Program at A&T. It shows farmers and gardeners how to increase food productivity, maximize income and promote environmental stewardship. The general public is encouraged to attend as well. This year’s Field Day offers demonstrations of:

Truffle farming
Pastured pork and swine genetics
Summer cover crops for organic and conventional growers
Alternative farming for urban areas
Solar energy and rain catchment systems

Poster discussions will feature animal production and human health, forest farming with medicinal plants, using vegetable oil to deter beetles from stored cowpeas, and the value-added promise of pomace from grapes. The pomace discussion augments the “loaf of bread, jug of wine and thou” offering, with information on how stems, skins and seeds from grapes can be used to enhance the nutritional value and shelf life of some foods, including bread.

For more information or to register, call 336-285-4661or email ajgaines@ncat.edu."

- A Press Release