by Gloria Dulan-Wilson
This is both an article and a quasi transcript from the recently held rally at Medgar Evers College. The importance of this information cannot be ignored. For anyone who thinks that our Black youth do not care or are not involved in what's going on, please disabuse yourself of that illusion right now. For those who want to know about the petition's 31 questions, see my blog dated May 5, 2011 for details. Additionally, for those who think they can get away with abusing their own people because of the seeming backing of outside puppet masters, you are sadly mistaken; and your days are numbered in that role. There is a new (or is it old?) breed rising, and they are demanding that the sun shine on the deeds of those who think that under the cover of darkness they can get way with the backstabbing, undermining and othewise counter productive actions against their own for pay, for comfort - their ain't that much immunity in the world. When the people find out, then you are out. GDW
After weeks of being ignored by President Pollard, the Medgar Evers Coalition students staged a “Sunshine Rally” on one of the rainiest days in May on the sidewalk in front of Medgar Evers College. Undaunted by the rain, the students gathered as planned at 11:00AM brandishing signs and loudspeakers, demanding respect, and encouraging other students to join them an sign their petitions.
Joining the students were members of the surrounding community who braved the weather to stand in solidarity with them. The rally was called a sunshine rally to shed some light on serious questions that had been raised by the students in reference to budgetary concerns, as well as egregious acts on the part of the current president, William Pollard, against faculty, staff, students and programs, since his coming to Medgar Evers in 2009.
Their initial request for sunshine meeting has been consistently ignored by Pollard. The fact that the students demonstrated in rain sent a clear message about their displeasure and disappointment at the lack of respect accorded them on the part of the college’s administration.
Gracia Clinton, one of the organizers of the event spoke eloquently before a combined group of faculty and students. “The petition was submitted and we asked him to give us a weeks’ notice so we could let the students know and they could be present for a town meeting. Instead he had some one call who only wanted to meet with the two of us.”
Members of the Medgar Evers Coalition, who coordinated the rally, had petitions on hand to be signed by the students, many of whom joined them on the sidewalk in front of MEC’s main building at 1650 Bedford Avenue, shouting: “We demand respect! We demand respect!”
One student, who was not part of the rally, observed that they (Pollard) had purchased a huge and very ornate sign for the new science building that had to cost more $10,000, while the student study centers have been cut back, and while there are not enough computers for MEC students.
Another student, who joined the rally, and carried a sign demanding respect, stated, “He is not respecting the students. I’ve personally spoken with him one time before, and when he asked me my name, and I told him my name, he asked “What good is Nefetari going to do? Yes he did. When he asked me my name and I told him it was Nefetari, he asked me my name, and I said Nefetari, he said what good is a name like Nefetari going to do for me in society.” An indication that there is a disconnect when it comes to cultural awareness on Pollard’s part.
Gracia Branch, one of the coordinators, co-originator of the petition, and a demure, soft spoken a public administration major, attends MEC with her daughter. She stated: “The president wanted to meet with just me and one other student. An I told him I could not do that since the 500 students who signed the petition also wanted answers from him as well. We need truth - that’s what I’m saying - know the truth and the truth will set you free. We as students need to be free from the gossip and rumors.” An unidentified male student stated: “If he had given us a respectful response, we wouldn’t be out here demonstrating today. It’s about president Pollard not dealing with the wishes of the students, that is why we are out here in the rain. All of the controversial questions going on around here and he blatantly disrespected us. Did you know about that open meeting that he had with the Chancellor? It was not an open meeting - it was by invitation only! If your name was not on the list, you did not get in.”
The meeting with the chancellor was definitely not open; and most certainly was not a town hall meeting by any stretch of the imagination. There must have been a very short list of invitees, because the small auditorium in the new Science and Technology Building was only half full 70 people at the most were in attendance. Goldstein, who addressed the handpicked faculty and staff, could not escape some serious questions about budget, policies and the future of Medgar Evers - but that's for another blog entry - sorry!
Ms. Branch further stated, “These are the questions that the students have. There are more questions, we just couldn’t fit them on one sheet of paper. So we took the most critical questions and put them on the back of the petition. He is saying that they are rumors and some of them are not true. Instead of trying to pick a select few students, why not meet with the entire student body and get everything out in the open? Meet with the entire student body. Explain to them exactly what is going on. And that is what we are asking for. And we demand respect because we did not get respect from his office.”
She continues: "What about the academic standing of the students - he said he is concerned about that. The faculty goes out of their way to get books and materials for the students. They get no support from the president. They explain things to us and try to make sure we have what we need to succeed. Pollard just keeps cutting back."
According to another demonstrator, Medgar Evers High School Prep does not have priority at Medgar Evers anymore, even though it is affiliated with the school and has been for at least two decades. The students are no longer given access to the college.
As the rain intensified, the students were informed by retired congressman Major Owens that they have a right to assemble on the sidewalk, but they also have a right to go inside the building, since they are registered students at MEC.
After standing in the rain for nearly an hour, the students went inside the 1650 Bedford Avenue main building and proceeded to the auditorium, where faculty and seniors were gathered for a meeting being presided over by Howard Johnson, current provost. It was learned that Pollard was to have chaired the event, but had informed the students and other sources that he would be out of town, and not available for either the meeting, or the students requested audience with him.
There were extra police on hand, observing the rally. Prior to Pollard, Medgar Evers did not have - nor did it need - a police presence. When asked why there was heightened security, they had to admit that nothing negative had occurred to warrant it - “just a precaution,” one policeman stated.
While the provost was going over some of the mundane issues of the meeting, one of the MEC Coalition members shouted from the back of the auditorium, "We demand respect; what is going on with our budget?"
The students were invited to come in and have a seat, but were told they had to leave their signs outside in the Auditorium lobby. After a few more routine speeches, Ms. Branch was invited up to speak.
She started off slowly, and very respectfully, "It is a shame that students have to resort to storming in on a faculty meeting - we do much better than that - " and was interrupted by the provost, who stated that she did not introduce herself.
"I’m sorry, my name is Gracia Branch, and you, sir?" The entire room roared with laughter.
Gracia Branch continued, "My major is public administration, and as a future public administrator, I am charged in my class to stand up for what we believe in, setting the pace for the next generation of Public Administrators, staff members in the society we have to show integrity and true morals. We cannot stare away from the things that we are passionate about, and we are not distracted by things that are not of importance. With that said, as I was saying before, we students do not want to resort to any kind of immoral things by storming in on a private meeting - that is not what we students at Medgar Evers stand for, but when we call for a meeting; and we are not given that meeting - only that we need answers, the answers that we need have to do with our education. We don’t care about the politics or the undermining stuff that goes on behind closed doors with faculty and administration staff. Our main goal here today is to get answers. How does President Pollard and his administrator plan to do what is right for Medgar Evers students. What are his plans for this college. There has been a lot of rumors. A lot of money has been spent in different areas that we the students know could benefit us as students. And all we wanted was a simple meeting - meet with us. And as I stated to v.p. Vanray (?) I don’t know you, sir. I don’t know if you are in this room today…"
A voice from the back of the room intoned "Right here!"
Ma. Branch bowed slightly and responded: "Hello! Finally, we meet. We got together as students because we want answers. We want to make sure that when we leave Medgar Evers, we the students are able to compete with the other colleges out there. We know that quote/unquote we’re in a “recession” and we want to be able to get the jobs and the proper equipment to equip us to compete with these --- because students are afraid. They are afraid that if they start coming out that something will start happening with their financial aid."
OFFSIDE COMMENTS DENYING THIS EVENTUALITY)
Branch continues: "So these are the questions the students have; they really don’t know what their rights are. As a public administrator, we are fortunate - some of us at least - are fortunate to know what our rights are as students; and not just as students, but as individuals living in this society. And that is why we stand up for the students of Medgar Evers today - to get answers, this is not it."
As she continues to address the audience, she begins walking across the room, and starts speaking to a person who is scrunched down in his seat - that person turns out to be none other than Medgar Evers current president William Pollard - who was allegedly out of town on business. So, go figure! How is it that he is both out of town and at the faculty meeting at the same time? Could this have been an effort to duck the students, once again. As long as the rally was outside on the sidewalk, the students had no way of knowing that Pollard was really at the school. The unexpeted turn of events that brought them into the auditorium revealed that the President had not been away, just ducking them.
Branch: "Yes, after the fact we found out that you had called for a town hall meeting (ADDRESSING POLLARD , WHO SAT SLUNK DOWN IN HIS SEAT IN THE VERY FRONT ROW, TRYING TO BE INCONSPICUOUS) "- with all due respect, sir, we asked you to inform us so that we could get the students together to meet with you. We asked you to give us time so we could inform the students of Medgar Evers. What we did with our own resources was get flyers, get this information out. Now if you had given us the opportunity to inform the students, then the town hall meeting would have been a success. I didn’t even know about the town hall meeting; and I felt very disrespected, me and my colleague, Ms. Bonita Grant, who reached out to you; and you know, that doesn’t show integrity as far as I’m concerned."
This statement got no response from Pollard, who was being spoken to by one of the police officers - yet another display of disregard for the students.
Branch: "We had 31 questions, and our first question was can you begin the meeting with a full disclosure for the college budget. The reason we want to know that is because we as students have a right to know what is done with the budget; how has the budget been spent. Teachers talk all the time about students not getting involved in their education. This is the stand that we’re making now - we’re getting involved. We are asking you to present that budget."
Ms. Branch then turns to one of the fellow demonstrators, "Akil, you had a question, also. Would you stand up and ask your question."
As she takes her seat, another student approaches the front of the auditorium, Akil Townsley: "To whom it may concern, we do apologize for disrupting your meeting, as we know faculty and administration is very important to the school. But this is also a very important situation as well."
Provost Johnson, "Please identify yourself."
Townsley responds, "I’m sorry, my name is Akil Townsley. My major is public administration, and I am a freshman in my second semester. Would you like to know more about me sir? I have concerns when I came to the college, I saw that there was a controversy going on at Medgar Evers College. And as an advocate in the elementary schools for my children, and in the community at large, as block association president in my community, I wanted to know more about what was going on. So as I seen the president at different meetings, and heard him present stories about his childhood, people wanted to raise pertinent questions about the college. These were just questions, but things like this raise red flags for me."
He looks directly at Pollard, and continues: "One of the questions I would like to ask is will more money be made available for student scholarships, computers, the writing lab and the learning center? More library assistance, etc. Me knowing that the president of the college - President Pollard, sir, me knowing that you have been the president of a college before here, you are more likely to have more experience being a president - I just didn’t understand some of the history that was going on when you took the administrative - leadership role here. Leadership role at the college. For instance - you started tampering with the library, which really hadn’t bothered anybody. I really didn’t understand that. I had my high school diploma, and I didn’t think I needed - I really didn’t understand that, sir. I know there were supposed to be some upgrades done on the library, but, to suspend the services in the midstream of the semester, I thought that was - I didn’t see the importance of that. The writing center, I know that in the public school system, the department of education 50% of our students are graduating; and maybe if you give or take a little bit, less than 50% of them are guided from high school coming to college; and when a high percentage of them get to college are taking remedial courses, our writing center has been expunged; although there has been some type of writing lab, or whatever have you now, that’s been replaced, it is not the core of what was there - input from the beginning."
At this point, he pauses for a response; but receiving none, continues: "The original - the learning center. The Learning center from my understanding has been shrunk from that and that’s why we want full disclosure of budgets so that we can start our own think tank; so that we understand more of what’s going on; so that we can demand analysis, as students seeking to be scholars. We just need some information, because knowledge is power. We just need some information from the president because you don’t mind having the meeting with us. Because there are more than 31 questions that the students have. When they came out to sign the petitions, they came up with their own questions - hey, what about this, that and the other? Hey, we don’t know the answers to these questions. We are students seeking answers. We are students seeking answers. We didn’t say x,y,z, all we know is that there are some facts - but there are rumors and we wanted you to eliminate the rumors. And a lot of students don’t know you. The only reason that I know you is because I have been out to the meetings; I’m in the community. But a lot of students who come to the school don’t know you. And they would like to know you. They say, hey, we don’t know who this guy is. They’ve seen a lot of other adults come around - and have asked them “are you the president of the college?” And you’ve been here almost two years - and I don’t know what that says. Like I said I’m a freshman; only my second semester; but I don’t think it takes a scholar to figure that one out. Thanks for your time."
He pauses for yet another minute to see whether or not there will be a response on Pollard's part. Johnson steps up and asks: "Does any one from the faculty that they would like to raise at this time; if not I’m asking for a motion to adjourn" A pre-planned motion from the side adjourns the meeting, even though there several faculty members who had raised their hands.
Neither Pollard nor Johnson answered or responded in any way to the students’ questions. Faculty who raised their hands were ignored. And the students left with no more respect than when they entered.
However, this rally was a success on so many more levels. Students demands made the front covers of several locally based Black communications, as well as News 12. Students are not going to allow these questions or concerns to continue, and now plan to take it to the next level. What does that mean? Stay tuned. More to come.
For those of you who are interested in participating in the Medgar Evers Coalition, log on to www.MEfortheCommunity.org, or email MECCoalition@gmail.com, or call (718) 710-4528; or go on www.Facebook.com/MEfortheCommunity.
Just a Personal Note: I cannot think of a more fitting day to be writing this article than on the 86th Birth Anniversary of Brother Malcolm X, El Hajj Malik El Shabazz. His spirit, and that of Sister Betty Shabazz walks with those students and faculty and those who stand for right to respect, justice, freedom, parity at Medgar Evers and wherever else we happen to be.
This is about Communiversity and keeping a covenant with your community - Now that you know; what will you do?
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Gloria Dulan-Wilson Blog/ ECLECTICALLY BLACK NEWS
For Eclectic Black People
VIP: Views . Interests . Perspectives
Showing posts with label Chancellor of CUNY. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chancellor of CUNY. Show all posts
5.19.2011
5.05.2011
Medgar Evers College Students' Petition for Sunshine Meeting Ignored by Pollard
by Gloria Dulan-Wilson
An article appeared recently in a local Black Newspaper alleging that Medgar Evers College students did not know what was going on on the campus; and that there was a great deal of confusion, ignorance, mis-information and misunderstanding swirling around the controversy of newly appointed William Pollard, who was broughtin to replace 20-year president Edison O. Jackson.
According to the students, this was patently untrue. In fact, just after that edition, MEC students held a demonstration against Pollard outside the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), {in the freezing cold} protesting his giving the keynote speech for the Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday celebration.
Additionally, other students, some of whom were members of the NAACP, attempted to engage President Pollard in why he had elected to dismiss the Black Think Tank from the campus; evicted the Center for NU Leadership, after having confiscated their computers; why it was that the Bunche DuBois center had likewise been evicted; and why he had cancelled a contract with Carver Bank (a Black bank) in favor of a contract with CitiBank. In order to quash their stand, the NAACP Youth Council was severely reprimanded, {allegedly by none other than Hazel Dukes, who, it was later learned, had been friends with the wife of the ersatz President}. To the NAACP students’ dismay, rather than being rewarded and complimented for taking a principled stand for their rights, and for upholding the mission of Medgar Evers College as a COMMUNIVERSITY {a fitting term coined by Major Owens, Congressman, Retired, who was one of founding members of Medgar Evers College}. Principles which most of us who grew up in the NAACP Youth Council were taught from Day One {including yours truly - I cut my teeth on Civil Rights in the NAACP's Youth Council at the tender age of 10}. Unlike us, however, MEC NAACP students were silenced, censured, and booted from the campus! The young lady, who was President of the college chapter, is now totally intimidated and disillusioned {way to encourage our youth to be involved, right? The idea is to pass the baton, not hit them in the head with it; mentor, not demean.}
It is clear that the Medgar Evers students not only know what's going on, but that they don’t like it. They are holding weekly poetry slams and fact finding meetings as we speak, to garner the additional support necessary to make sure that Medgar Evers College is still a Black College when they return in the Fall. From so many indications, there's danger of it becoming other than that.
And while these students are juggling between work, study and civic actions, tt is also true that their efforts are not being honored, or respected by the defacto college president, who chose to ignore their most recent request for an audience with him. He, likewise, appears to be ignoring a petition that was presented to him, which had been circulated around the campus with more than 500 (and counting) signatures, demanding both audience and answers.
The petition, which has 31 questions gathered from a poll of Medgar Evers students printed on the reverse side (see below), was given to Pollard prior to the Spring and Easter Break. Thus far, as of today, May 5, 2011, he has neither answered them, nor responded to the petition.
This is the petition below - my comments are in brackets:
STUDENT PETITION FOR A SUNSHINE MEETING
In our democratic country of America, the people have a right to TRANSPERANCY. This means that any activities utilizing tax payer funds must be open to the public review. We are respectfully requesting that Medgar Evers College President, Dr. William Pollard, and his executive cabinet, convene a special meeting to answer basic questions about problems which impact students and faculty. We, the undersigned students consider it necessary to have a TRANSPARENCY meeting in order for students to obtain a clear understanding of the critical plans and actions now taking place in our school. (See Questions on the back of the Petition)* Please provide at least one week notice for the meeting date.
The questions were compiled, and the signatures gathered by the Ad-Hoc Committee for Truth Search (Gracia Branch and Bonita Grant)
The Questions, which follow, show that the students know what’s up, and want answers and action:
1. Can you begin the meeting with full disclosure of the college buget and current expenditures?
2. Will more money be made available for student scholarship, computers, the writing lab, the learning center, more library assistance, etc?
3. How was 1.2 million dollars ($600,000 per year for two years) from the Federal predominantly Black Colleges Program spent?
4. Who paid for he $100,000 dollars student trip to Brazil, and when will the students report on their learning experiences there?
5. What was the amount of money spent for single hotel rooms for an overnight stay in Albany for certain privileged students?
6. Who ordered deluxe jackets for $350 each and distributed them to a select few?
7. Did Medgar Evers (college) lose a $20,000 deposit on the Javits Center commencement site reservation?
8. Why has the college spent more than $100,000 on advertisement and publicity campaign?
9. Did the college refuse capital funds that could meet some of our student needs?
10. Why do so many of Medgar Evers college students fail to get the maximum financial aid from Pell Grants?
11. When will your office provide a Master Plan to guide the college for the next five years?
12. What steps have you taken to help faculty and staff understand that CUNY was established to educate the children of working class families?
13. Do you fully support the goals articulated by the community leaders when Medgar Evers was founded?
14. Why did you end the “direct admission” policy which gave priority to the high school graduates of Central Brooklyn?
15. What will you do about highly educated faculty members who give their lectures and then race out of the classrooms and are never available for student consultation?
16. In evaluating faculty, does the committee consider their degree of dedication and commitment?
17. Why are certain very effective faculty members not being reappointed?
18. Why are you dismantling CENTERS at Medgar Evers, while other CUNY colleges are encouraging (and establishing/funding) CENTERS?
19. Why have you exhibited (so) much hostility to a community-based program for ex-offenders { referring to Center For Nu Leadership - which has been evicted from the campus}?
20. Why are you encouraging District Attorney Hynes to use Medgar Evers College to bolster his political image, while he allows increasing crime in our neighborhoods to go unchecked?
21. Why is it so hard for students to get proper advice concerning their academic programs?
22. What is the reason for the constant turnover of our academic advisors?
23. Is your administration planning to better train the staff that is responsible for admissions, financial aid, registration, bursar duties etc?
24. Are you willing to establish a special telephone complaint center (211 phone number) with rapid response to student grievances?
25. Why are staff members never discipline for openly displaying a hostile attitude towards students?
26. Do clerks, secretaries and custodians have tenure?
27. Why is it so complicated to get books that have been put on reserve, and to make copies?
28. Are there irregularities in the administration of student government funds, and is your office conducting an investigation?
29. Do you have hours posted that are available for the students who want an appointment with you? {and if so, where are they, and when are they?}
30. Is it true that you refuse to accept residence in our local community, and CUNY agreed to pay several million dollars for you condo located in Williamsburg?
31. Will you support the establishment of a field house and physical fitness center at the Armory located a few blocks away from Medgar Evers on Bedford Avenue between President and Union Streets? {1579 Bedford Avenue to be exact; it was just learned that the State of New York turned the facility over to the City of New York - the students are seeking assistance from elected officials and representatives, who must move fast in order not to have it turned into yet another homeless shelter in their community}.
Medgar Evers students range in age from 18 to 80; some are just starting out in college, some are returning after having raised their children; some are trying to turn their lives around. Medgar Evers College was established to address the needs of all these people. It is New York's ONLY BLACK COLLEGE! The community must stand with their students, who are their children, neighbors, associates, friends, in making sure that Medgar Evers Mission and pledge to the community is not violated, and tossed aside.
The students are doing their part, and it's time for us to do ours: If you are interested and concerned about the fate of Medgar Evers College, contact the Medgar Evers Coalition at (718) 710-4528; visit the website www.MEfortheCommunity.org; and participate in their meetings, held each Thursday from 7:00pm - 9:00pm (call for location).
Civil Rights leader MEDGAR EVERS, former Field Secretary for the NAACP, fought against injustice in his community and beyond. Our COMMUNIVERSITY and the people of the community must stand together to make sure that his name and his legacy are not violated by those who have no understanding, care, concern or respect for us, our culture, our history, or our future.
Take care &
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
An article appeared recently in a local Black Newspaper alleging that Medgar Evers College students did not know what was going on on the campus; and that there was a great deal of confusion, ignorance, mis-information and misunderstanding swirling around the controversy of newly appointed William Pollard, who was broughtin to replace 20-year president Edison O. Jackson.
According to the students, this was patently untrue. In fact, just after that edition, MEC students held a demonstration against Pollard outside the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), {in the freezing cold} protesting his giving the keynote speech for the Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday celebration.
Additionally, other students, some of whom were members of the NAACP, attempted to engage President Pollard in why he had elected to dismiss the Black Think Tank from the campus; evicted the Center for NU Leadership, after having confiscated their computers; why it was that the Bunche DuBois center had likewise been evicted; and why he had cancelled a contract with Carver Bank (a Black bank) in favor of a contract with CitiBank. In order to quash their stand, the NAACP Youth Council was severely reprimanded, {allegedly by none other than Hazel Dukes, who, it was later learned, had been friends with the wife of the ersatz President}. To the NAACP students’ dismay, rather than being rewarded and complimented for taking a principled stand for their rights, and for upholding the mission of Medgar Evers College as a COMMUNIVERSITY {a fitting term coined by Major Owens, Congressman, Retired, who was one of founding members of Medgar Evers College}. Principles which most of us who grew up in the NAACP Youth Council were taught from Day One {including yours truly - I cut my teeth on Civil Rights in the NAACP's Youth Council at the tender age of 10}. Unlike us, however, MEC NAACP students were silenced, censured, and booted from the campus! The young lady, who was President of the college chapter, is now totally intimidated and disillusioned {way to encourage our youth to be involved, right? The idea is to pass the baton, not hit them in the head with it; mentor, not demean.}
It is clear that the Medgar Evers students not only know what's going on, but that they don’t like it. They are holding weekly poetry slams and fact finding meetings as we speak, to garner the additional support necessary to make sure that Medgar Evers College is still a Black College when they return in the Fall. From so many indications, there's danger of it becoming other than that.
And while these students are juggling between work, study and civic actions, tt is also true that their efforts are not being honored, or respected by the defacto college president, who chose to ignore their most recent request for an audience with him. He, likewise, appears to be ignoring a petition that was presented to him, which had been circulated around the campus with more than 500 (and counting) signatures, demanding both audience and answers.
The petition, which has 31 questions gathered from a poll of Medgar Evers students printed on the reverse side (see below), was given to Pollard prior to the Spring and Easter Break. Thus far, as of today, May 5, 2011, he has neither answered them, nor responded to the petition.
This is the petition below - my comments are in brackets:
STUDENT PETITION FOR A SUNSHINE MEETING
In our democratic country of America, the people have a right to TRANSPERANCY. This means that any activities utilizing tax payer funds must be open to the public review. We are respectfully requesting that Medgar Evers College President, Dr. William Pollard, and his executive cabinet, convene a special meeting to answer basic questions about problems which impact students and faculty. We, the undersigned students consider it necessary to have a TRANSPARENCY meeting in order for students to obtain a clear understanding of the critical plans and actions now taking place in our school. (See Questions on the back of the Petition)* Please provide at least one week notice for the meeting date.
The questions were compiled, and the signatures gathered by the Ad-Hoc Committee for Truth Search (Gracia Branch and Bonita Grant)
The Questions, which follow, show that the students know what’s up, and want answers and action:
1. Can you begin the meeting with full disclosure of the college buget and current expenditures?
2. Will more money be made available for student scholarship, computers, the writing lab, the learning center, more library assistance, etc?
3. How was 1.2 million dollars ($600,000 per year for two years) from the Federal predominantly Black Colleges Program spent?
4. Who paid for he $100,000 dollars student trip to Brazil, and when will the students report on their learning experiences there?
5. What was the amount of money spent for single hotel rooms for an overnight stay in Albany for certain privileged students?
6. Who ordered deluxe jackets for $350 each and distributed them to a select few?
7. Did Medgar Evers (college) lose a $20,000 deposit on the Javits Center commencement site reservation?
8. Why has the college spent more than $100,000 on advertisement and publicity campaign?
9. Did the college refuse capital funds that could meet some of our student needs?
10. Why do so many of Medgar Evers college students fail to get the maximum financial aid from Pell Grants?
11. When will your office provide a Master Plan to guide the college for the next five years?
12. What steps have you taken to help faculty and staff understand that CUNY was established to educate the children of working class families?
13. Do you fully support the goals articulated by the community leaders when Medgar Evers was founded?
14. Why did you end the “direct admission” policy which gave priority to the high school graduates of Central Brooklyn?
15. What will you do about highly educated faculty members who give their lectures and then race out of the classrooms and are never available for student consultation?
16. In evaluating faculty, does the committee consider their degree of dedication and commitment?
17. Why are certain very effective faculty members not being reappointed?
18. Why are you dismantling CENTERS at Medgar Evers, while other CUNY colleges are encouraging (and establishing/funding) CENTERS?
19. Why have you exhibited (so) much hostility to a community-based program for ex-offenders { referring to Center For Nu Leadership - which has been evicted from the campus}?
20. Why are you encouraging District Attorney Hynes to use Medgar Evers College to bolster his political image, while he allows increasing crime in our neighborhoods to go unchecked?
21. Why is it so hard for students to get proper advice concerning their academic programs?
22. What is the reason for the constant turnover of our academic advisors?
23. Is your administration planning to better train the staff that is responsible for admissions, financial aid, registration, bursar duties etc?
24. Are you willing to establish a special telephone complaint center (211 phone number) with rapid response to student grievances?
25. Why are staff members never discipline for openly displaying a hostile attitude towards students?
26. Do clerks, secretaries and custodians have tenure?
27. Why is it so complicated to get books that have been put on reserve, and to make copies?
28. Are there irregularities in the administration of student government funds, and is your office conducting an investigation?
29. Do you have hours posted that are available for the students who want an appointment with you? {and if so, where are they, and when are they?}
30. Is it true that you refuse to accept residence in our local community, and CUNY agreed to pay several million dollars for you condo located in Williamsburg?
31. Will you support the establishment of a field house and physical fitness center at the Armory located a few blocks away from Medgar Evers on Bedford Avenue between President and Union Streets? {1579 Bedford Avenue to be exact; it was just learned that the State of New York turned the facility over to the City of New York - the students are seeking assistance from elected officials and representatives, who must move fast in order not to have it turned into yet another homeless shelter in their community}.
Medgar Evers students range in age from 18 to 80; some are just starting out in college, some are returning after having raised their children; some are trying to turn their lives around. Medgar Evers College was established to address the needs of all these people. It is New York's ONLY BLACK COLLEGE! The community must stand with their students, who are their children, neighbors, associates, friends, in making sure that Medgar Evers Mission and pledge to the community is not violated, and tossed aside.
The students are doing their part, and it's time for us to do ours: If you are interested and concerned about the fate of Medgar Evers College, contact the Medgar Evers Coalition at (718) 710-4528; visit the website www.MEfortheCommunity.org; and participate in their meetings, held each Thursday from 7:00pm - 9:00pm (call for location).
Civil Rights leader MEDGAR EVERS, former Field Secretary for the NAACP, fought against injustice in his community and beyond. Our COMMUNIVERSITY and the people of the community must stand together to make sure that his name and his legacy are not violated by those who have no understanding, care, concern or respect for us, our culture, our history, or our future.
Take care &
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
2.28.2011
Medgar Evers Coalition for Academic Excellence Makes a Big Showing at the Black, Puerto Rican & Asian Caucus
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Well now that I've recouped from one of the busiest weekends of Black History Month, I have finally gathered up the strength and energy to write this article.
The MEC Coalition took its concerns to Albany last weekend, during the 40th Annual Black and Puerto Rican and Asian Legislative Caucus and placed it squarely on the plates of the elected officials.
Armed with petitions, flyers, parent, student and educator support, they spoke individually and collectively with the elected officials in regards to the egregious acts that have been lodged against New York's only predominantly Black college.
The center of the controversy, William Pollard, newly selected president chosen to replace the outgoing Edison Jackson, who retired after 20 years of successfully leading and expanding the college from a near failure to one of immeasurable success; closely followed by his hand-picked provost Howard Johnson, appeared to have had the same idea. They sponsored a bus with students from Medgar Evers, in an effort to put on a dog and pony show, to persuade the officials that they were doing a positive job.
However, their efforts fell far short of their mark, despite a well crafted speech delivered by State Senator Eric Adams. His support of academic excellence, is of course, laudable. Something all can agree to. However, his speech, eloquent though it was, does not assuage the fact that Pollard and Johnson have eviscerated several essential programs that were part and parcel of what made Medgar Evers such a great success: The Center for NU Leadership, started by Dr. Divine Pryor, and recruited on to the campus as an integral part of their outreach by Dr. Jackson; and the DuBois Bunche Institute, founded and fostered by former Assemblymember Roger Green, Congressman Major Owens, among others, were both ousted from the campus - for what purpose? And what did the termination of these programs have to do with academic excellence? Additionally, MEC had the only Black Think Tank on campus, comprised of historical figures, entrepreneurs, political leaders, formerly elected officials, all of whom were drawing cards for other programs and funding sources. (It should also be noted that the program ended abruptly after Senator Adams' speech, and members of the audience were not afforded the opportunity of asking questions or making comments).
But back on the subject of academic excellence: One wonders what the rationale could have been for curtailing open enrollment for students who were aspiring to new career goals? Congressman Owens, who was part of the originating members who supported the establishment of Medgar Evers reminded us all that the premise of the school was based on the concept of COMMUNIVERSITY. And that there were several contracts drawn between the community and the CUNY bigwigs have been thrown under the bus.
It's clear that things are very much amiss at the college. In fact, anyone walking through the corridors, which were once alive with engaged students, will readily notice the ghost-town like appearance of the halls. Gone are the encouraging bulletin boards, the announcements of opportunities for student participation and achievements that used to populate the walls.
Albany became the line drawn in the sand. At a meeting held Saturday, February 19, caucus members came to hear the concerns of the MEC Coalition, and left determined that there would be no additional funding or other concessions until things were rectified at the campus.
Chancellor Goldstein, who backs Pollard and Johnson, has taken out full page ads in predominantly African American papers trying to thwart the growing discontent among the faculty, staff, and community. The Amsterdam News recently ran a headline stating the students at MEC were "clueless" about what was transpiring at the campus. The facts, however, are that the student organizations have been threatened with funding cuts if they participate in, or evidence any concern about the new regime. A regime that has largely targeted them for extinction, while simultaneously looking to replace them with students outside the boundaries of the Brooklyn community from which a large majority of the student body originates.
Actually, the more telling problem is that they are actually looking to supplant the New York student body completely by giving priority to foreign students who are coming in from other countries, paying high prices to attend CUNY Schools while the neighborhood gets priced out of the market. As it is, prices have crept up for education at our city "owned" university over the past few decades, with students who would otherwise have the right to a free education, paying almost as much as they would to go to a private college or university. In spite of that factor, the CUNY system is constantly crying broke - wonder who is monitoring their budgets?
Medgar Evers was, for all intents and purposes, not supposed to succeed. In fact the first four presidents, prior to the hiring of Edison Jackson, were major disasters. It was as if the CUNY higher ups were deliberately picking miscreants, who were clueless about the mission and intent of the college, which was named after slain Civil Rights leader, Medgar Wiley Evers. The appointment of the current president, is reminiscient of the earlier selections, who had no understanding or concern for the community; had little respect for or alliegience to the faculty and staff, and were largely there as place holders while the school slowly declined.
Such a decline would open the door for the CUNY higher ups to step in conveniently and take over the school, reshaping it so that it no longer serves the purpose of providing a quality educational millieu for African/African American/Caribbean students who have found success in a school that has been the underpinning of their success over the past two decades. (Pollard is alleged to have made threats to curtail financial assistance for several Caribbean-American students, stating they were receiving the assistance illegally).
When compared to other HBCUs, Medgar Evers existence is a drop in the bucket, having only been here a mere 26 years. But their progress has been meteoric. That is until the 2009.
The upshot of the Caucus weekend, however, is that the efforts to make it appear as if all was well at MEC, may well have backfired. Several of the pols who attended the meeting with the coalition, most notably Senator Kevin Parker, and Assemblymember Inez Barron, have vowed not to provide any additional funds to CUNY in general and Medgar Evers in particular until the problems are rectified, the programs are reinstated, and person more in keeping with the mission of Medgar Evers is brought on board to lead the college. This time a full fledged search must be launched to make sure that the right one is appointed- no more hastily selected individuals of questionable backgrounds.
Assemblymember Jeffries, and other elected officials are planning to hold hearings into the circumstances under which the current president was selected, as well as to the recent discontinuations of programs that had been beneficial to the campus, and the blocking of grants that would have enhanced several programs that had been in existence for quite some time. (Still don't understand why Carver Bank's ATMs were taken out and replaced by CitiBank. It may not be in the purview of the elected officials, but inquiring minds want to know.)
The New York State Panhellenic Council (comprised of the major Black Fraternities and Sororities) have likewise agreed to look into what is happening with Medgar Evers' students, and the policies that appear to be aimed at undermining its status as the only Black college in New York. It should be remembered that prior to her untimely, tragic death, Dr. Betty Shabazz, Director of Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs, was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Former President, Edison Jackson, was an active member of Phi Beta Sigma, hosting many student orient programs and scholarship award ceremonies at the campus. Irregardless of whether there are active faternities or sororities at Medgar Evers, the Pan Hellenic Council deem it important to take an active interest in the preservation of Medgar Evers as a predominantly Black college. This is refreshing, since Pollard has claimed that he was not brought to Medgar Evers to head a Black college.
Rev. Al Sharpton stated in his address to the Caucus church goers at the Wilborn Temple in Albany, we have far too many among us who have title without responsibility; who are in positions of power, but are not standing for those made it possible for them to be in that position. Who serve more as a blockage to progress, than a conduit.
It appears that Pollard has been brought into this situation for that purpose; in a which he is not suited- at least not by our standards of quality (though he may well be serving the purposes of the chancellor). And since he was not brought here to be the president of a Black college; it may well have been a case of mistaken identity. He does look a lot like us. But there the similarity ends sharply: MEDGAR EVERS IS A BLACK COLLEGE. It was from the inception, and will continue to be so, despite his or Johnson's or Goldstein's efforts to the contrary.
Academic excellence is not born of destroying programs; it comes from bringing in quality faculty; it comes from providing a millieu of growth, exploration, creativity, and progressive programs. It does not come via demoralization an0d intimidation, inuendos and reprisals. It comes through attracting the brightest and the best via those who are already a beacon for the school; not undermining that beacon, and engendering the ire of an entire community.
A series of television broadcasts via Manhattan Neighborhood Network, (MNN), will further discuss these and other concerns roiling around Medgar Evers College. Check your satellite and cable listings for dates and times. (Of course I will post it as part of my even alert as soon as I have additional information.)
But the main point is this -- to Brooklynites, and all residents of New York, whether or not you have or ever plan to attend Medgar Evers College - this is yet another attack on a Black institution. This is another incursion into our community, with the aim and goal of decimating us, demoralizing us, and depriving us of something that we have worked hard for and built with blood, sweat, tears, pride and respect. My question to you is this: NOW THAT YOU KNOW, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?
To lend your support contact the meccoalitation@gmail.com, contact your churches, elected officials, community based organizations, and make yourselves a committee of one to demand the cessation of the dismantling of Medgar Evers and the reinstatement of programs that have been unfairly curtailed; and the reinstatement of open enrollment for students in the Brooklyn community. You are the people with the power; this is your community; Medgar Evers came about as the result of your efforts. Stand up, be seen, be heard, be counted, be respected.
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Well now that I've recouped from one of the busiest weekends of Black History Month, I have finally gathered up the strength and energy to write this article.
The MEC Coalition took its concerns to Albany last weekend, during the 40th Annual Black and Puerto Rican and Asian Legislative Caucus and placed it squarely on the plates of the elected officials.
Armed with petitions, flyers, parent, student and educator support, they spoke individually and collectively with the elected officials in regards to the egregious acts that have been lodged against New York's only predominantly Black college.
The center of the controversy, William Pollard, newly selected president chosen to replace the outgoing Edison Jackson, who retired after 20 years of successfully leading and expanding the college from a near failure to one of immeasurable success; closely followed by his hand-picked provost Howard Johnson, appeared to have had the same idea. They sponsored a bus with students from Medgar Evers, in an effort to put on a dog and pony show, to persuade the officials that they were doing a positive job.
However, their efforts fell far short of their mark, despite a well crafted speech delivered by State Senator Eric Adams. His support of academic excellence, is of course, laudable. Something all can agree to. However, his speech, eloquent though it was, does not assuage the fact that Pollard and Johnson have eviscerated several essential programs that were part and parcel of what made Medgar Evers such a great success: The Center for NU Leadership, started by Dr. Divine Pryor, and recruited on to the campus as an integral part of their outreach by Dr. Jackson; and the DuBois Bunche Institute, founded and fostered by former Assemblymember Roger Green, Congressman Major Owens, among others, were both ousted from the campus - for what purpose? And what did the termination of these programs have to do with academic excellence? Additionally, MEC had the only Black Think Tank on campus, comprised of historical figures, entrepreneurs, political leaders, formerly elected officials, all of whom were drawing cards for other programs and funding sources. (It should also be noted that the program ended abruptly after Senator Adams' speech, and members of the audience were not afforded the opportunity of asking questions or making comments).
But back on the subject of academic excellence: One wonders what the rationale could have been for curtailing open enrollment for students who were aspiring to new career goals? Congressman Owens, who was part of the originating members who supported the establishment of Medgar Evers reminded us all that the premise of the school was based on the concept of COMMUNIVERSITY. And that there were several contracts drawn between the community and the CUNY bigwigs have been thrown under the bus.
It's clear that things are very much amiss at the college. In fact, anyone walking through the corridors, which were once alive with engaged students, will readily notice the ghost-town like appearance of the halls. Gone are the encouraging bulletin boards, the announcements of opportunities for student participation and achievements that used to populate the walls.
Albany became the line drawn in the sand. At a meeting held Saturday, February 19, caucus members came to hear the concerns of the MEC Coalition, and left determined that there would be no additional funding or other concessions until things were rectified at the campus.
Chancellor Goldstein, who backs Pollard and Johnson, has taken out full page ads in predominantly African American papers trying to thwart the growing discontent among the faculty, staff, and community. The Amsterdam News recently ran a headline stating the students at MEC were "clueless" about what was transpiring at the campus. The facts, however, are that the student organizations have been threatened with funding cuts if they participate in, or evidence any concern about the new regime. A regime that has largely targeted them for extinction, while simultaneously looking to replace them with students outside the boundaries of the Brooklyn community from which a large majority of the student body originates.
Actually, the more telling problem is that they are actually looking to supplant the New York student body completely by giving priority to foreign students who are coming in from other countries, paying high prices to attend CUNY Schools while the neighborhood gets priced out of the market. As it is, prices have crept up for education at our city "owned" university over the past few decades, with students who would otherwise have the right to a free education, paying almost as much as they would to go to a private college or university. In spite of that factor, the CUNY system is constantly crying broke - wonder who is monitoring their budgets?
Medgar Evers was, for all intents and purposes, not supposed to succeed. In fact the first four presidents, prior to the hiring of Edison Jackson, were major disasters. It was as if the CUNY higher ups were deliberately picking miscreants, who were clueless about the mission and intent of the college, which was named after slain Civil Rights leader, Medgar Wiley Evers. The appointment of the current president, is reminiscient of the earlier selections, who had no understanding or concern for the community; had little respect for or alliegience to the faculty and staff, and were largely there as place holders while the school slowly declined.
Such a decline would open the door for the CUNY higher ups to step in conveniently and take over the school, reshaping it so that it no longer serves the purpose of providing a quality educational millieu for African/African American/Caribbean students who have found success in a school that has been the underpinning of their success over the past two decades. (Pollard is alleged to have made threats to curtail financial assistance for several Caribbean-American students, stating they were receiving the assistance illegally).
When compared to other HBCUs, Medgar Evers existence is a drop in the bucket, having only been here a mere 26 years. But their progress has been meteoric. That is until the 2009.
The upshot of the Caucus weekend, however, is that the efforts to make it appear as if all was well at MEC, may well have backfired. Several of the pols who attended the meeting with the coalition, most notably Senator Kevin Parker, and Assemblymember Inez Barron, have vowed not to provide any additional funds to CUNY in general and Medgar Evers in particular until the problems are rectified, the programs are reinstated, and person more in keeping with the mission of Medgar Evers is brought on board to lead the college. This time a full fledged search must be launched to make sure that the right one is appointed- no more hastily selected individuals of questionable backgrounds.
Assemblymember Jeffries, and other elected officials are planning to hold hearings into the circumstances under which the current president was selected, as well as to the recent discontinuations of programs that had been beneficial to the campus, and the blocking of grants that would have enhanced several programs that had been in existence for quite some time. (Still don't understand why Carver Bank's ATMs were taken out and replaced by CitiBank. It may not be in the purview of the elected officials, but inquiring minds want to know.)
The New York State Panhellenic Council (comprised of the major Black Fraternities and Sororities) have likewise agreed to look into what is happening with Medgar Evers' students, and the policies that appear to be aimed at undermining its status as the only Black college in New York. It should be remembered that prior to her untimely, tragic death, Dr. Betty Shabazz, Director of Institutional Advancement and Public Affairs, was a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Former President, Edison Jackson, was an active member of Phi Beta Sigma, hosting many student orient programs and scholarship award ceremonies at the campus. Irregardless of whether there are active faternities or sororities at Medgar Evers, the Pan Hellenic Council deem it important to take an active interest in the preservation of Medgar Evers as a predominantly Black college. This is refreshing, since Pollard has claimed that he was not brought to Medgar Evers to head a Black college.
Rev. Al Sharpton stated in his address to the Caucus church goers at the Wilborn Temple in Albany, we have far too many among us who have title without responsibility; who are in positions of power, but are not standing for those made it possible for them to be in that position. Who serve more as a blockage to progress, than a conduit.
It appears that Pollard has been brought into this situation for that purpose; in a which he is not suited- at least not by our standards of quality (though he may well be serving the purposes of the chancellor). And since he was not brought here to be the president of a Black college; it may well have been a case of mistaken identity. He does look a lot like us. But there the similarity ends sharply: MEDGAR EVERS IS A BLACK COLLEGE. It was from the inception, and will continue to be so, despite his or Johnson's or Goldstein's efforts to the contrary.
Academic excellence is not born of destroying programs; it comes from bringing in quality faculty; it comes from providing a millieu of growth, exploration, creativity, and progressive programs. It does not come via demoralization an0d intimidation, inuendos and reprisals. It comes through attracting the brightest and the best via those who are already a beacon for the school; not undermining that beacon, and engendering the ire of an entire community.
A series of television broadcasts via Manhattan Neighborhood Network, (MNN), will further discuss these and other concerns roiling around Medgar Evers College. Check your satellite and cable listings for dates and times. (Of course I will post it as part of my even alert as soon as I have additional information.)
But the main point is this -- to Brooklynites, and all residents of New York, whether or not you have or ever plan to attend Medgar Evers College - this is yet another attack on a Black institution. This is another incursion into our community, with the aim and goal of decimating us, demoralizing us, and depriving us of something that we have worked hard for and built with blood, sweat, tears, pride and respect. My question to you is this: NOW THAT YOU KNOW, WHAT WILL YOU DO ABOUT IT?
To lend your support contact the meccoalitation@gmail.com, contact your churches, elected officials, community based organizations, and make yourselves a committee of one to demand the cessation of the dismantling of Medgar Evers and the reinstatement of programs that have been unfairly curtailed; and the reinstatement of open enrollment for students in the Brooklyn community. You are the people with the power; this is your community; Medgar Evers came about as the result of your efforts. Stand up, be seen, be heard, be counted, be respected.
STAY BLESSED &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
2.14.2011
Medgar Evers College in Crisis: Sign the Petition and Take a Stand: If the People Will Lead the Leaders Will Follow
by Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello All:
This is an immediate notice to Brooklyn's Black Community and those who wish us well. There is a crisis brewing at Medgar Evers College, and it's been allowed to fester and degenerate into a maisma with a cloud of gloom and a crisis of confidence looming over the entire campus, as well as the community.
Those of you who know the history of Medgar Evers College know that this school did not come about because of the generosity of the City University System. There was no benevolent being there who suddenly woke up and said, "Wow! There's no historically Black college or university or school that speaks to the needs of the Black students in New York, let us establish a college for them." No, that did not happen.
What did happen is the people like Jitu Weusi, Albert Vann, Annette Robinson, and other stalwarts of the community, got to together with the Brooklyn community, put together a plan and demanded a college be established that was more in line with the unique needs of the Black students. And it took months, to bring this about. It took years to find a president whose leadership finally made Medgar Evers the stellar college it has become under the City University System. Under his 20 years of leadership, Medgar Evers has made great strides, with more yet to come.
Well that progress appears to be halted in its tracks under the mis-direction of the newly appointed president, William Pollard. It took 20 years for Medgar Evers to gain its credibility, and in less than one year Pollard has apparently caused them to either reverse or disappear. Not only has he stated that he was not hired to lead a Black College; applicants from the surrounding community, who used to be able to apply directly for admission, now have to go through CUNY Central for admission. This has decimated the number of Black students who would have had the opportunity to begin their higher education.
To make it even more bizarre, Pollard has severed the contract with Carver Federal Savings (a Black Bank), and instituted CitiBank instead. What's up with that?
Additionally, Pollard asserted that there were students who were receiving financial aid illegally - and has terminated several students' lifelines to obtaining a higher education.
Now this might be understandable if Pollard was of any other ethnicity. But Pollard is allegedly African American (I'm reserving what I could really call him. There is a name for an individual who stabs his own people in the back, and gets paid to do so -- and since we all know what that name is, I don't need to go there - use your own imagination and experience).
The problems facing Medgar Evers has been compounded by the actions on the part of Howard Johnson, the individual selected as provost, who has caused several essential programs to be evicted from the campus. The combination of the two individuals have turned twenty years of progress backwards. MEC, despite the new buildings, is facing a downward spiral as a result of these two who serve to the detriment of the students and the community.
The Medgar Evers College Coalition for Academic Excellence and Mission Integrity comprised of community members, professors, elected officials, and students, have been meeting consistently to try to stem the tide of this effort to undermine Medgar Evers' primacy as a Black school.
But here's my dilemma: With all this roiling right under the noses of Black people in Brooklyn, with the very future of their children's education in jeopardy, I want to know why is everyone else in Brooklyn sooooo quiet? Why is it that there aren't thousands of Brooklynites surrounding that campus demanding Pollard's exit? Why haven't our elected officials put their foot down and demanded his exit? Why all the posturing and the meetings. Why are we sitting here watching a car wreck as though we're driving down the I-95, waiting to see how many casualties before we act? What the Sam Hill is going on with us, with this wait and see attitude?
Don't we have enough assaults on our education with adding insult to injury?
I recently saw a movie on Ancient Mali, where they discovered thousand year old libraries that had to be protected from white maurauders who did not value our culture. They were able to devise ways to protect those treasures so that today the world marvels at the fact that our civilization predates the European system, and there is concrete evidence of that fact.
At the present moment, I am looking at a situation where the same genetic codes that caused us to protect our treasures then have to be re-inculcated now - before its too late. Our children, their education, our community, our accomplishment are individually and collectively treasures, and it is incumbent on us to protect it.
It doesn't matter if you never attended, or ever plan to attend Medgar Evers College; just as it does not matter if you or any of your children ever attended Paul Robeson (also under siege in Brooklyn); it's about the entire society of which you are a part. It is to be treasured because we developed it for us by us. It is not to be violated by interlopers who are paid to come in eviscerate progress made through devotion, dedication, diligence, blood, sweat and tears. It is as sacred as any church. It is just as much a treasure as gold, silver, or millions of dollars. Because it is an investment into our futures, our self-esteem, our self worth, our very empowerment.
So, why is the Black community so quiet? I am posting this in my blog, and I want each individual who receives it to send it to ten of their friends, relatives, associates - whether they live in Brooklyn or not - and tell them to get involved: Sign the petition below, write your congressman, write your city council representative, write your assembly members, write your state senators and tell them that you want Medgar Evers delivered from the hands of those that are looking to destroy it, and new leadership immediately established, if not sooner.
Not since the Civil Rights Era has there been more at stake. Many students who are now the grandchildren of those of that era, have chosen to take a stand against the denigration of Medgar Evers College, including the MEC NAACP. They have engaged other students who appear to be fearful of reprisals, in taking a principled stand to maintain Medgar Evers College is the only semblance of an Historically Black College/University in the North. Taking a cue from the examples of their parents and grandparents, these students understand the necessity of being involved in their future, and not sitting idly by while others destroy what has been so hard fought to bring into existence. It is heartening to see that our students are willing to take the baton and continue the mission.
Reaching back to the Mali documentary, I mentioned earlier, there was a theme song that has remained in my conscious-soulness, and I'm sharing the title with you here:
"IF THE PEOPLE WILL LEAD, THE LEADERS WILL FOLLOW"
Let that statement marinate in your mind for a moment. IF THE PEOPLE WILL LEAD, THE LEADERS WILL FOLLOW!!! We are the people. We are responsible for our leaders. If they do something we don't like, or if they don't represent us appropriately, we have the right and responsibility to put them on blast, and make them take corrective actions. We can either let them lead us by the noses, or we can take principled stands. In this instance, if we don't let the so-called leaders know of our displeasure, and of our desires, they will pretty much go along without having any inkling of our concerns. But once we stand up, stand together, and put our demands in their face, they either have to accede to our needs and demands, or get out.
It is time for the community of Brooklyn to take back their leadership, and send a signal to our representatives to get the job done now.
Below is a petition that you can copy, paste and sign in reference to the Medgar Evers College crisis. Please sign it and send it back to the email address highlighted below.
Also included is an update on the Coalition's activities to save Medgar Evers. Your help and support are needed immediately, if not sooner. So make it your business to be a part of the solution, not a part of the side line.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
NOW THAT YOU KNOW, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?
_______________________________________________
PETITION (cut and paste to print petition Email to MECCoalition@gmail.com or call 718.710.4528):
The Medgar Evers College Coalition for Academic Excellence and Mission Integrity
January 5, 2011
Hon. Matthew Goldstein
Chancellor
City University of New York
535 E. 80th Street
New York, NY 10075
Re: A Call for the Resignation of Dr. Howard Johnson as Provost of Medgar Evers College
Dear Chancellor Goldstein:
I am very disturbed by the changes which have occurred since Dr. William Pollard became president of Medgar Evers College in August 2009. His policies have compromised the ability of the institution to serve its students and his policies have demoralized the College’s faculty. I am not adverse to change and recognize that it is necessary for the growth of any institution. However, this administration’s policies have hindered the ability of the institution to ensure the academic excellence and integrity of its mission as defined by the founders and stakeholders.
Many of the issues stem from the actions and unprofessional working style of the Provost, Dr. Howard Johnson, and from his lack of commitment to the mission of the College. Among other actions, this provost has violated CUNY Bylaws, union contracts and the Medgar Evers College Governance Plan in the non reappointment of faculty; removed chairs for spurious and unsubstantiated reasons; reduced support mechanisms and faculty resources for student success; oversaw the withdrawal of support for the Medgar College Preparatory School’s Dual Enrollment Program; and issued an eviction notice to the Center for NuLeadership on Urban Solutions despite its formal approval by the College’s governing body, the College Council.
In view of the actions cited above and more, I request that you direct President Pollard to ask for the resignation of Provost Howard Johnson immediately. I am sure that the resignation of Provost Johnson will initiate the steps to resolve these critical issues at Medgar Evers College.
Yours truly,
Full Name: *_________________________________________________
Email: _________________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________________________
Comments: _________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
Email to MECCoalition@gmail.com or call 718.710.4528.
What’s Going on at Medgar Evers College? - THE FACTS
Presented by the Medgar Evers College Coalition for Academic Excellence and Mission Integrity (aka The MEC Coalition)
• Petition Letter to the Hon. Matthew Goldstein, Chancellor of the City University of New York
• Petition Letter to Dr. William L. Pollard, President, Medgar Evers College at the City University of New York
In view of the actions listed below, the faculty of Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York (MEC) affirmed a VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE in the current Administration, and specifically, in the Office of the President, Dr. William Pollard and in the Office of the Provost, Dr. Howard Johnson.
At a meeting held by the Committee of the Faculty of the Whole, 89% of the faculty issued a vote of no confidence.
Under the administration of President Pollard and Provost Johnson, the following have occurred:
1. The administration has violated CUNY Bylaws, union contracts and the Medgar Evers Governance Plan in the non-reappointment of faculty.
2. The administration has disseminated notices of non-reappointment to faculty and staff via campus police, email, and visits to classrooms (in front of students), and offices.
3. The administration has removed the Chair of Education for spurious and unsubstantiated reasons (Per PSC Contract, Chairs in CUNY are elected by faculty, not appointed by President and Provost). The Chair of Education had been elected by the faculty in her department
for a three year term.
“WHAT WOULD MEDGAR DO?” STAND FOR JUSTICE!
On Monday, January 17, 2011 at the 25th Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, (where Dr. William Pollard was invited to speak), we conducted a Silent Demonstration to protest the desecration of the mission of Medgar Evers College. The Mission of MEDGAR EVERS COLLEGE Is UNDER ATTACK!
4. The administration has reduced support mechanisms and faculty resources which include:
* Elimination of the Writing Center
* Elimination of the Center for Teaching and Learning
* Reduction of tutors in the Learning Center budget
* Reduction of staff in the College’s library
* Reduction of staff in the Student Computer Lab
* Reduction of resources and research opportunities for the Psych Lab
* Blocking of funding supporting faculty/student research and the mission of the College
5. The administration has issued an eviction notice to the Center for NuLeadership on Urban Solutions despite its adherence to the formal application process and subsequent approval by Medgar Evers College’s governing body, the College Council, in accordance with the Policy Guidelines for Centers, Institutes, Consortia and Special Initiatives at The City University of New York (approved by the Board of Trustees, 27 February 1995) and the Medgar Evers College Governance Plan.
6. The administration has not hired faculty positions in academic departments, yet has hired numerous high level administrators and consultants.
7. The administration has withdrawn support for the Medgar Evers College Preparatory School’s Dual Enrollment Program which provides high school students with opportunities to take college level courses while enrolled in high school.
8. The administration has not announced a Master Plan or direction for MEC, after an entire year of governance.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF Medgar Evers College
* MEC was founded four decades ago during a period of institution building by communities of color across this country and in Central Brooklyn, specifically, to address the need for access to higher education, to be coupled with community engagement and development
* MEC has a proud history of leadership and involvement in advocacy that advances and promotes the political, cultural, social, economic and academic power of people of color in Central Brooklyn
* MEC is rooted in the progressive history of Central Brooklyn through its academic, professional, advocacy and civic programs
* MEC has created a culture of academic excellence for students and faculty
* The actions of the administration, as represented by the Offices of the President and Provost, demonstrate a lack of commitment to the “community–oriented” mission of Medgar Evers College and the community stakeholders of Central Brooklyn who helped to birth Medgar Evers College
Medgar Evers College also:
* Transforms the lives of individuals within their communities and the global world
* Provides students with access to high quality professional degree programs
* Offers 17 baccalaureate and 8 associate level degree programs in the liberal arts, science, health, business, and education
* Provides students who move from associate level to baccalaureate level degree programs with high academic standards
* Maintains a national and international presence through its Centers
* Offers conferences, seminars and workshops that support academic programs and student success
The Students
* Capture first place prizes in prestigious competitions like the Wharton Undergraduate Marketing Conference case competition
* Present their original research and scholarship at conferences across the globe
* Participate and are leaders in national student business associations of NABA (National Assoc. of Black Accountants, AMA (American Management Assoc.), CISTA (Computer Information Systems Technology Association, MECPA (Society of Public Administration), and MIA (Minority Investment Assoc.) which have won numerous awards.
* Are members of honor societies (Delta Mu Delta and Kappa Beta Delta) and participate in national and regional conferences that promote personal and career goals
* Matriculate as the first in their family to pursue higher education
About The Faculty
* Include distinguished scholars, researchers, and former members of the city, state and federal legislatures of the United States
* Are Involved in a range of research and grant activities in their disciplines
* Received numerous awards within their disciplines
* Include Fulbright scholars and a Guggenheim Fellow
* Collaborate with entities such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to conduct space science research, which included the launching of a satellite for government payloads
* Are Awarded research grants by the U.S. Air Force’s Office of Scientific Research, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Education, among others
* Include faculty and directors, who host national and international conferences, including:
o National Black Writers Conference
o Environmental Science Conference
o Social Work Conference
o Diopian Inquiry and Research on Education as Culture Transmission Conference
About The Centers
* Strengthen, enrich and support the College’s academic degree programs
* Serve as vehicles for research, training, advocacy and career development in public service and public policy fields
* Fulfill the College’s mission of communicating the knowledge of tradition, the teaching of scholars and the beauty and profundity of students’ cultural heritage
* Develop non degree and co-curricular cultural programs which serve students and a broad range of community residents
* Fulfill the College’s mission through interaction with community representatives, cultural and public institutions
The Center for NuLeadership on Urban Solutions (CNUS) has operated at Medgar Evers College for the past six years. CNUS provides critical policy research and advocacy training on criminal and juvenile justice system reform issues; develops initiatives, policy recommendations and programs aimed at increasing access, retention, and graduation rates for formerly incarcerated students; and promotes leadership and career development in the fields of public policy and advocacy related to criminal justice and civil rights.
The DuBois Bunche Center for Public Policy (DBC) is a think tank dedicated to forging solutions to the challenges confronting people of color living within urban communities in the United States and throughout the African Diaspora. DBC produces research, formulates policies, sponsors conferences, and produces public affairs media programming that advances economic and social justice.
The Center for Black Literature expands, broadens, and enriches the public’s knowledge and aesthetic appreciation of the value of black literature; continues the tradition and legacy of the National Black Writers Conference and serves as a voice and resource for black writers. It is the only Center devoted to this in the country.
The Center for Law and Social Justice (CLSJ) is a community-based legal organization that specializes in addressing racial justice issues. CLSJ provides quality legal advocacy, trainings, and research services in a personal manner to people of African ancestry and the disenfranchised.
About the Medgar Evers College Preparatory School (MECPS)
* The MECPS was created as a partnership with Medgar Evers College
* The MECPS was cited by Department of Education, College Board and President Obama as an exemplary model of high school and college collaboration
* The MECPS was only one of three in the nation to win a College Board Inspiration Award Winner for helping underserved students achieve equitable access to higher education
* The MECPS ranked as one of the top best public high schools in Brooklyn
* The MECPS offers one of the largest Chinese language programs for students not from a Chinese background in the United States
For more information, visit www.Facebook.com/MEfortheCommunity. You do not have to be a member of Facebook to view this Facebook Page.
Send an email to MECCoalition@gmail.com or call 718.710.4528.
NOW THAT YOU KNOW, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello All:
This is an immediate notice to Brooklyn's Black Community and those who wish us well. There is a crisis brewing at Medgar Evers College, and it's been allowed to fester and degenerate into a maisma with a cloud of gloom and a crisis of confidence looming over the entire campus, as well as the community.
Those of you who know the history of Medgar Evers College know that this school did not come about because of the generosity of the City University System. There was no benevolent being there who suddenly woke up and said, "Wow! There's no historically Black college or university or school that speaks to the needs of the Black students in New York, let us establish a college for them." No, that did not happen.
What did happen is the people like Jitu Weusi, Albert Vann, Annette Robinson, and other stalwarts of the community, got to together with the Brooklyn community, put together a plan and demanded a college be established that was more in line with the unique needs of the Black students. And it took months, to bring this about. It took years to find a president whose leadership finally made Medgar Evers the stellar college it has become under the City University System. Under his 20 years of leadership, Medgar Evers has made great strides, with more yet to come.
Well that progress appears to be halted in its tracks under the mis-direction of the newly appointed president, William Pollard. It took 20 years for Medgar Evers to gain its credibility, and in less than one year Pollard has apparently caused them to either reverse or disappear. Not only has he stated that he was not hired to lead a Black College; applicants from the surrounding community, who used to be able to apply directly for admission, now have to go through CUNY Central for admission. This has decimated the number of Black students who would have had the opportunity to begin their higher education.
To make it even more bizarre, Pollard has severed the contract with Carver Federal Savings (a Black Bank), and instituted CitiBank instead. What's up with that?
Additionally, Pollard asserted that there were students who were receiving financial aid illegally - and has terminated several students' lifelines to obtaining a higher education.
Now this might be understandable if Pollard was of any other ethnicity. But Pollard is allegedly African American (I'm reserving what I could really call him. There is a name for an individual who stabs his own people in the back, and gets paid to do so -- and since we all know what that name is, I don't need to go there - use your own imagination and experience).
The problems facing Medgar Evers has been compounded by the actions on the part of Howard Johnson, the individual selected as provost, who has caused several essential programs to be evicted from the campus. The combination of the two individuals have turned twenty years of progress backwards. MEC, despite the new buildings, is facing a downward spiral as a result of these two who serve to the detriment of the students and the community.
The Medgar Evers College Coalition for Academic Excellence and Mission Integrity comprised of community members, professors, elected officials, and students, have been meeting consistently to try to stem the tide of this effort to undermine Medgar Evers' primacy as a Black school.
But here's my dilemma: With all this roiling right under the noses of Black people in Brooklyn, with the very future of their children's education in jeopardy, I want to know why is everyone else in Brooklyn sooooo quiet? Why is it that there aren't thousands of Brooklynites surrounding that campus demanding Pollard's exit? Why haven't our elected officials put their foot down and demanded his exit? Why all the posturing and the meetings. Why are we sitting here watching a car wreck as though we're driving down the I-95, waiting to see how many casualties before we act? What the Sam Hill is going on with us, with this wait and see attitude?
Don't we have enough assaults on our education with adding insult to injury?
I recently saw a movie on Ancient Mali, where they discovered thousand year old libraries that had to be protected from white maurauders who did not value our culture. They were able to devise ways to protect those treasures so that today the world marvels at the fact that our civilization predates the European system, and there is concrete evidence of that fact.
At the present moment, I am looking at a situation where the same genetic codes that caused us to protect our treasures then have to be re-inculcated now - before its too late. Our children, their education, our community, our accomplishment are individually and collectively treasures, and it is incumbent on us to protect it.
It doesn't matter if you never attended, or ever plan to attend Medgar Evers College; just as it does not matter if you or any of your children ever attended Paul Robeson (also under siege in Brooklyn); it's about the entire society of which you are a part. It is to be treasured because we developed it for us by us. It is not to be violated by interlopers who are paid to come in eviscerate progress made through devotion, dedication, diligence, blood, sweat and tears. It is as sacred as any church. It is just as much a treasure as gold, silver, or millions of dollars. Because it is an investment into our futures, our self-esteem, our self worth, our very empowerment.
So, why is the Black community so quiet? I am posting this in my blog, and I want each individual who receives it to send it to ten of their friends, relatives, associates - whether they live in Brooklyn or not - and tell them to get involved: Sign the petition below, write your congressman, write your city council representative, write your assembly members, write your state senators and tell them that you want Medgar Evers delivered from the hands of those that are looking to destroy it, and new leadership immediately established, if not sooner.
Not since the Civil Rights Era has there been more at stake. Many students who are now the grandchildren of those of that era, have chosen to take a stand against the denigration of Medgar Evers College, including the MEC NAACP. They have engaged other students who appear to be fearful of reprisals, in taking a principled stand to maintain Medgar Evers College is the only semblance of an Historically Black College/University in the North. Taking a cue from the examples of their parents and grandparents, these students understand the necessity of being involved in their future, and not sitting idly by while others destroy what has been so hard fought to bring into existence. It is heartening to see that our students are willing to take the baton and continue the mission.
Reaching back to the Mali documentary, I mentioned earlier, there was a theme song that has remained in my conscious-soulness, and I'm sharing the title with you here:
"IF THE PEOPLE WILL LEAD, THE LEADERS WILL FOLLOW"
Let that statement marinate in your mind for a moment. IF THE PEOPLE WILL LEAD, THE LEADERS WILL FOLLOW!!! We are the people. We are responsible for our leaders. If they do something we don't like, or if they don't represent us appropriately, we have the right and responsibility to put them on blast, and make them take corrective actions. We can either let them lead us by the noses, or we can take principled stands. In this instance, if we don't let the so-called leaders know of our displeasure, and of our desires, they will pretty much go along without having any inkling of our concerns. But once we stand up, stand together, and put our demands in their face, they either have to accede to our needs and demands, or get out.
It is time for the community of Brooklyn to take back their leadership, and send a signal to our representatives to get the job done now.
Below is a petition that you can copy, paste and sign in reference to the Medgar Evers College crisis. Please sign it and send it back to the email address highlighted below.
Also included is an update on the Coalition's activities to save Medgar Evers. Your help and support are needed immediately, if not sooner. So make it your business to be a part of the solution, not a part of the side line.
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
NOW THAT YOU KNOW, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?
_______________________________________________
PETITION (cut and paste to print petition Email to MECCoalition@gmail.com or call 718.710.4528):
The Medgar Evers College Coalition for Academic Excellence and Mission Integrity
January 5, 2011
Hon. Matthew Goldstein
Chancellor
City University of New York
535 E. 80th Street
New York, NY 10075
Re: A Call for the Resignation of Dr. Howard Johnson as Provost of Medgar Evers College
Dear Chancellor Goldstein:
I am very disturbed by the changes which have occurred since Dr. William Pollard became president of Medgar Evers College in August 2009. His policies have compromised the ability of the institution to serve its students and his policies have demoralized the College’s faculty. I am not adverse to change and recognize that it is necessary for the growth of any institution. However, this administration’s policies have hindered the ability of the institution to ensure the academic excellence and integrity of its mission as defined by the founders and stakeholders.
Many of the issues stem from the actions and unprofessional working style of the Provost, Dr. Howard Johnson, and from his lack of commitment to the mission of the College. Among other actions, this provost has violated CUNY Bylaws, union contracts and the Medgar Evers College Governance Plan in the non reappointment of faculty; removed chairs for spurious and unsubstantiated reasons; reduced support mechanisms and faculty resources for student success; oversaw the withdrawal of support for the Medgar College Preparatory School’s Dual Enrollment Program; and issued an eviction notice to the Center for NuLeadership on Urban Solutions despite its formal approval by the College’s governing body, the College Council.
In view of the actions cited above and more, I request that you direct President Pollard to ask for the resignation of Provost Howard Johnson immediately. I am sure that the resignation of Provost Johnson will initiate the steps to resolve these critical issues at Medgar Evers College.
Yours truly,
Full Name: *_________________________________________________
Email: _________________________________________________
Phone: _________________________________________________
Comments: _________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
Email to MECCoalition@gmail.com or call 718.710.4528.
What’s Going on at Medgar Evers College? - THE FACTS
Presented by the Medgar Evers College Coalition for Academic Excellence and Mission Integrity (aka The MEC Coalition)
• Petition Letter to the Hon. Matthew Goldstein, Chancellor of the City University of New York
• Petition Letter to Dr. William L. Pollard, President, Medgar Evers College at the City University of New York
In view of the actions listed below, the faculty of Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York (MEC) affirmed a VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE in the current Administration, and specifically, in the Office of the President, Dr. William Pollard and in the Office of the Provost, Dr. Howard Johnson.
At a meeting held by the Committee of the Faculty of the Whole, 89% of the faculty issued a vote of no confidence.
Under the administration of President Pollard and Provost Johnson, the following have occurred:
1. The administration has violated CUNY Bylaws, union contracts and the Medgar Evers Governance Plan in the non-reappointment of faculty.
2. The administration has disseminated notices of non-reappointment to faculty and staff via campus police, email, and visits to classrooms (in front of students), and offices.
3. The administration has removed the Chair of Education for spurious and unsubstantiated reasons (Per PSC Contract, Chairs in CUNY are elected by faculty, not appointed by President and Provost). The Chair of Education had been elected by the faculty in her department
for a three year term.
“WHAT WOULD MEDGAR DO?” STAND FOR JUSTICE!
On Monday, January 17, 2011 at the 25th Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, (where Dr. William Pollard was invited to speak), we conducted a Silent Demonstration to protest the desecration of the mission of Medgar Evers College. The Mission of MEDGAR EVERS COLLEGE Is UNDER ATTACK!
4. The administration has reduced support mechanisms and faculty resources which include:
* Elimination of the Writing Center
* Elimination of the Center for Teaching and Learning
* Reduction of tutors in the Learning Center budget
* Reduction of staff in the College’s library
* Reduction of staff in the Student Computer Lab
* Reduction of resources and research opportunities for the Psych Lab
* Blocking of funding supporting faculty/student research and the mission of the College
5. The administration has issued an eviction notice to the Center for NuLeadership on Urban Solutions despite its adherence to the formal application process and subsequent approval by Medgar Evers College’s governing body, the College Council, in accordance with the Policy Guidelines for Centers, Institutes, Consortia and Special Initiatives at The City University of New York (approved by the Board of Trustees, 27 February 1995) and the Medgar Evers College Governance Plan.
6. The administration has not hired faculty positions in academic departments, yet has hired numerous high level administrators and consultants.
7. The administration has withdrawn support for the Medgar Evers College Preparatory School’s Dual Enrollment Program which provides high school students with opportunities to take college level courses while enrolled in high school.
8. The administration has not announced a Master Plan or direction for MEC, after an entire year of governance.
A BRIEF HISTORY OF Medgar Evers College
* MEC was founded four decades ago during a period of institution building by communities of color across this country and in Central Brooklyn, specifically, to address the need for access to higher education, to be coupled with community engagement and development
* MEC has a proud history of leadership and involvement in advocacy that advances and promotes the political, cultural, social, economic and academic power of people of color in Central Brooklyn
* MEC is rooted in the progressive history of Central Brooklyn through its academic, professional, advocacy and civic programs
* MEC has created a culture of academic excellence for students and faculty
* The actions of the administration, as represented by the Offices of the President and Provost, demonstrate a lack of commitment to the “community–oriented” mission of Medgar Evers College and the community stakeholders of Central Brooklyn who helped to birth Medgar Evers College
Medgar Evers College also:
* Transforms the lives of individuals within their communities and the global world
* Provides students with access to high quality professional degree programs
* Offers 17 baccalaureate and 8 associate level degree programs in the liberal arts, science, health, business, and education
* Provides students who move from associate level to baccalaureate level degree programs with high academic standards
* Maintains a national and international presence through its Centers
* Offers conferences, seminars and workshops that support academic programs and student success
The Students
* Capture first place prizes in prestigious competitions like the Wharton Undergraduate Marketing Conference case competition
* Present their original research and scholarship at conferences across the globe
* Participate and are leaders in national student business associations of NABA (National Assoc. of Black Accountants, AMA (American Management Assoc.), CISTA (Computer Information Systems Technology Association, MECPA (Society of Public Administration), and MIA (Minority Investment Assoc.) which have won numerous awards.
* Are members of honor societies (Delta Mu Delta and Kappa Beta Delta) and participate in national and regional conferences that promote personal and career goals
* Matriculate as the first in their family to pursue higher education
About The Faculty
* Include distinguished scholars, researchers, and former members of the city, state and federal legislatures of the United States
* Are Involved in a range of research and grant activities in their disciplines
* Received numerous awards within their disciplines
* Include Fulbright scholars and a Guggenheim Fellow
* Collaborate with entities such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to conduct space science research, which included the launching of a satellite for government payloads
* Are Awarded research grants by the U.S. Air Force’s Office of Scientific Research, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Education, among others
* Include faculty and directors, who host national and international conferences, including:
o National Black Writers Conference
o Environmental Science Conference
o Social Work Conference
o Diopian Inquiry and Research on Education as Culture Transmission Conference
About The Centers
* Strengthen, enrich and support the College’s academic degree programs
* Serve as vehicles for research, training, advocacy and career development in public service and public policy fields
* Fulfill the College’s mission of communicating the knowledge of tradition, the teaching of scholars and the beauty and profundity of students’ cultural heritage
* Develop non degree and co-curricular cultural programs which serve students and a broad range of community residents
* Fulfill the College’s mission through interaction with community representatives, cultural and public institutions
The Center for NuLeadership on Urban Solutions (CNUS) has operated at Medgar Evers College for the past six years. CNUS provides critical policy research and advocacy training on criminal and juvenile justice system reform issues; develops initiatives, policy recommendations and programs aimed at increasing access, retention, and graduation rates for formerly incarcerated students; and promotes leadership and career development in the fields of public policy and advocacy related to criminal justice and civil rights.
The DuBois Bunche Center for Public Policy (DBC) is a think tank dedicated to forging solutions to the challenges confronting people of color living within urban communities in the United States and throughout the African Diaspora. DBC produces research, formulates policies, sponsors conferences, and produces public affairs media programming that advances economic and social justice.
The Center for Black Literature expands, broadens, and enriches the public’s knowledge and aesthetic appreciation of the value of black literature; continues the tradition and legacy of the National Black Writers Conference and serves as a voice and resource for black writers. It is the only Center devoted to this in the country.
The Center for Law and Social Justice (CLSJ) is a community-based legal organization that specializes in addressing racial justice issues. CLSJ provides quality legal advocacy, trainings, and research services in a personal manner to people of African ancestry and the disenfranchised.
About the Medgar Evers College Preparatory School (MECPS)
* The MECPS was created as a partnership with Medgar Evers College
* The MECPS was cited by Department of Education, College Board and President Obama as an exemplary model of high school and college collaboration
* The MECPS was only one of three in the nation to win a College Board Inspiration Award Winner for helping underserved students achieve equitable access to higher education
* The MECPS ranked as one of the top best public high schools in Brooklyn
* The MECPS offers one of the largest Chinese language programs for students not from a Chinese background in the United States
For more information, visit www.Facebook.com/MEfortheCommunity. You do not have to be a member of Facebook to view this Facebook Page.
Send an email to MECCoalition@gmail.com or call 718.710.4528.
NOW THAT YOU KNOW, WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
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