{"id":397,"date":"2026-03-31T17:00:04","date_gmt":"2026-03-31T21:00:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aig.uvaalumni.org\/ubunye\/?p=397"},"modified":"2026-03-31T17:00:04","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T21:00:04","slug":"read-our-march-newsletter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aig.uvaalumni.org\/ubunye\/2026\/03\/read-our-march-newsletter\/","title":{"rendered":"Read our March Newsletter!"},"content":{"rendered":"

President’s Message<\/span><\/h2>\n

Unity. Purpose. Legacy.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dear Ubunye Family,<\/p>\n

Jambo! At the heart of\u202fUbunye\u202fis a simple but powerful idea:\u202fwe are stronger together.<\/em> The Zulu word\u202fubunye<\/em>\u202fmeans unity, and that spirit continues to guide the work of bringing together the thousands of Black alumni who share the experience of walking the historic Grounds of the University of Virginia.<\/p>\n

Every generation of Black students and alumni has contributed to the legacy we celebrate today. From the earliest pioneers who attended UVA in the face of adversity to the thousands of alumni now leading in athletics, arts, business, education, law, medicine, public service, and science, our community continues to shape the future of the University and the world beyond it.<\/p>\n

Ubunye exists to ensure that\u202fBlack alumni remain connected to one another, connected to the University, and connected to the students who now walk the path we once walked.<\/strong>\u202fOur presence, our wisdom, and our encouragement matter deeply to the next generation of Hoos.<\/p>\n

How do we keep this spirit alive? Responsibility.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Debby<\/p>\n

Sacrifices were made for each one of us to attend UVA. Sacrifices are needed for today\u2019s students. What part will you play in this critical time?<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve learned to embrace the mantra \u201cdon\u2019t bash what you hate but rather promote what you love.\u201d For\u00a0those alumni who are appreciative of their UVA experience of academic rigor, fellowship, historical connections, and the beginning of lifetime relationships, please do your part to ensure our community remains intact. Practice forgiveness. Protect and recognize our unique contributions. Provide opportunities for others to follow you.<\/p>\n

Together, we continue to build and love a community rooted in\u202fexcellence, mentorship, pride, and belonging.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Go Hoos!<\/p>\n

Debby Stroman (Educ<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201982)<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

P.S. Connection Opportunity: If you know of anyone interested or working in Sport Analytics, please\u00a0have them join the new association: The Equity Analytics Movement (T.E.A.M.) Our organization seeks to reduce the diversity divide by offering education, connections, and career advice in this exciting and fast-growing industry. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach, an industry professional, or just interested in analytics, we’d love to have you.<\/p>\n

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Returning to the Grounds: Black Alumni Weekend<\/span><\/h2>\n

One of the most meaningful ways we demonstrate our unity is by\u202fshowing up for one another and for the students who follow in our footsteps.<\/strong><\/p>\n

This year\u2019s\u202fBlack Alumni Weekend<\/a>, happening April 10-12, 2026,\u202fis an opportunity for us to return to Grounds, reconnect with friends and classmates, celebrate our shared experiences, and most importantly,\u202fbe present for current Black students who have asked for our engagement and support.<\/strong><\/p>\n

When students see alumni return\u2014leaders, mentors, and trailblazers who once sat in the same classrooms\u2014they are reminded that they belong at UVA and that their future is limitless.<\/p>\n

If it has been years since you walked the Lawn, we invite you to come back<\/a>. Bring your stories, your wisdom, and your Hoo pride. Your presence matters more than you may realize.<\/p>\n

Let us gather again in the spirit of\u202fcommunity, fellowship, and celebration.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Read our letter to the Black alumni community<\/a><\/p>\n

Ubunye Partners with Athletics, Ridley, and the School of Education and Human Development for BAW<\/abbr><\/span><\/h2>\n

The leadership of the Walter N. Ridley Scholarship Fund<\/a> and Ubunye agreed that a partnership was necessary to further address the needs of our alumni community. Having heard from many alumni about ways to improve communications, reducing duplicative and\/or overlapping events, and being more responsive to the attack on Blackness at UVA, this effort has intentionally launched for BAW<\/abbr> 2026. The vision of Ridley is to cultivate a thriving community for Black Scholars that amplifies Black Excellence at UVA, empowering scholars to succeed as leaders at the University, in their communities, and beyond. Ubunye will continue to create awareness for the importance of Ridley during these very challenging times for higher education activities that support equality and equity. Special thanks to Marva Jo Camp (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201983)<\/strong> who leads our BAW<\/abbr> connections.<\/p>\n

History of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the Impact of Divine 9 Organizations<\/span><\/h3>\n

Monday, April 6 at 7:00 p.m.<\/strong>
\nIn partnership with the School of Education and Human Development<\/em><\/p>\n

We are excited to offer the first-ever partnership with the School of Education to promote reading and critical thought with our community. This event will explore how structured engagement through Divine 9 organizations has supported student persistence during their time on campus and the responsibility of these organizations in today\u2019s campus climate. Education professor and Omega man, Derrick P. Alridge<\/strong>, will join his co-authors in providing commentary on their book, With Faith in God and Heart and Mind: A History of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity<\/em>. The intention is to host this event every Monday before BAW<\/abbr>. Special thanks to Dean Stephanie Rowley (Grad<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201997)<\/strong>! Stay tuned for virtual and in-person event details.<\/p>\n

BAW<\/abbr> Black Athlete Celebration: Networking and Soul Food Night<\/span><\/h3>\n

Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m.<\/strong>
\nIn partnership with Athletics<\/em><\/p>\n

This special event is designed to provide alumni athletes the opportunity to share academic and life lessons with the members of the Black Student-Athletes Offering Service and Support (B.O.S.S.) organization. Invitation Only.<\/p>\n

Athlete Alumni Mixer<\/span><\/h3>\n

Friday, April 10 at 4:00-5:30 p.m.<\/strong>
\nIn partnership with Ridley and Athletics<\/em><\/p>\n

Calling all former UVA Athletes! We welcome you and your guests to stop by the Harrison Olympic Sports Center (connected to the McCue Center) to catch up with former teammates and friends from other teams at the opening of BAW<\/abbr>! The Athlete Alumni Mixer<\/a> will feature a welcome message from Dr. Carla Williams and special guests.<\/p>\n

Optional: A tour of the new spectacular Harrison Family Olympic Sports Center and Hardie Football Operations Center<\/strong> will be available before and after the event. Facility tours leave from the Harrison Center lobby at 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. Special gift for all alumni athletes!<\/p>\n

BAW<\/abbr> Noteworthy Events<\/h2>\n

Hypocrite: The Musical<\/span><\/h3>\n

Thursday, April 9 at 7:00 p.m. and Friday, April 10 at 7:00 p.m.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"Glennis Crosby presents Hypocrite: The Musical<\/em>, live on stage at The Paramount Theater. Hypocrite: The Musical<\/em> is a jubilant gospel comedy that tells the remarkable tale of spirited street folks who become unexpected saviors for a dilapidated church in need of redemption. As the story unfolds, prepare to be swept away on a journey filled with laughter, tears, and soul-stirring melodies. With its vibrant characters, uplifting message, and toe-tapping tunes, this musical reminds us that even in the most unlikely circumstances, divine intervention and the power of faith can transform lives. So, sit back, enjoy the show, and remember, your angels are always watching over you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tickets may be reserved online<\/a>, or by phone during Box Office hours by calling 434.979.1333. This play is co-produced by Double Hoo and Richmond native Michael Williams (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201983, Darden<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201988)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Sips & Cigars<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"\"Friday, April 10
\n3-9 p.m.
\nMilk & Honey Restaurant<\/p>\n

Join UVA Black alumni at our cigar social, held on the patio of Milk & Honey<\/a> and hosted by Ted Jeffries (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201993)<\/strong> & Forty-Deuce Entertainment. Partake in food and drink specials, delicious Southern cuisine, and music DJ\u2019d by Ryan Kersey (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201906)<\/strong>. Don\u2019t miss it!<\/p>\n

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 <\/p>\n

Black Nostalgia Vol. 4<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"\"Friday, April 10
\n9 p.m. – 2 a.m.
\nIx Art Park<\/p>\n

Get ready for Black Nostalgia, the ultimate Black Alumni reunion party celebrating our community and culture!<\/p>\n

Join us at Ix Art Park<\/a> for an unforgettable immersive experience. Whether you’re reconnecting with old friends or making new ones, this event is all about honoring our shared history and future. Register for the Black Nostalgia Party today<\/a>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Cocktails and Connections + The After Party<\/span><\/h3>\n

\"\"Saturday, April 11
\nMain event 3-9 p.m., Afterparty 10p.m. \u2013 2 a.m.
\nMilk & Honey Restaurant<\/p>\n

Hey Hoos! Join UVA Black alumni at Milk & Honey<\/a> for an afternoon of connecting with old and new friends all while indulging in delicious Southern cuisine, specialty cocktails, and cigars. Then, return at 10 p.m. for our afterparty! This event is hosted Doug Bass (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201994)<\/strong> and Ted Jeffries (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201993)<\/strong>, and DJ\u2019d by DJ WhyBe (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201995)<\/strong>. Come for what is sure to be a memorable night!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Remembering Rev. Jesse Jackson<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"\"“I may be poor,<\/p>\n

But I am Somebody.<\/p>\n

I may be young,<\/p>\n

But I am Somebody.<\/p>\n

I may be on welfare,<\/p>\n

But I am Somebody.”<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

We celebrate the life of social justice leader, Rev. Jesse Jackson, who had a connection to UVA. His son, Yusef Jackson (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201992, Law<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201996)<\/strong>, is a double Hoo with degrees in Government and Foreign Affairs and Law.<\/p>\n

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. members Gary Flowers (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201985)<\/strong> (also of the Ubunye Career Advising Committee) and Miles Braxton (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201918)<\/strong> organized the first stop of their brother in his “Healing and Rebuilding Tour” in Charlottesville in September 2017. Rev. Jackson\u2019s longstanding dedication to justice and healing was admired across the world.<\/p>\n

\"\"
Photo 1. Gary Flowers (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201985)<\/strong> and Rev. Jesse Jackson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

UVA students were blessed to engage with Jackson on topics related to civil rights and voter mobilization. Flowers acknowledges his influence when stating, \u201cRev. Jackson was more impactful to me in my adult life than my parents. Under his tutelage, I earned a \u2018Ph.D.\u2019 in social justice, economic justice, educational justice, and advocating for the locked out and the left behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

UVA students were blessed to engage with Jackson on topics related to civil rights and voter mobilization. Flowers acknowledges his influence when stating, \u201cRev. Jackson was more impactful to me in my adult life than my parents. Under his tutelage, I earned a \u2018Ph.D.\u2019 in social justice, economic justice, educational justice, and advocating for the locked out and the left behind.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"
Photo 2. Gary Flowers (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201985)<\/strong> standing far left, Miles Braxton (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201918)<\/strong>, standing second from left, directly to the right of Rev. Jackson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

\u201cBoth tears and sweat are salty, but they render a different result. Tears will get you sympathy; sweat will get you change,\u201d remarked Rev. Jackson. An important message that has much meaning today.<\/p>\n

Hoos Getting to Know You<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Introducing Rodney \u201cRJ\u201d Rhodes (Batten<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201923)<\/strong>, Ubunye\u2019s co-president! Rhodes, a senior associate in\u00a0Civil Service Resilience at the Environmental Protection Network, resides in the DMV and has a strong passion for developing young leaders. He has spent countless hours creating, supporting, and promoting soft skills for success in business, government, and nonprofit organizations.<\/p>\n

In his prior work at the Partnership for Public Service, he stressed the importance of public service and supporting the people who make government work by contributing to initiatives focused on building stronger, more effective public institutions. See below to learn more about RJ.<\/p>\n

\"\"A favorite quote?<\/strong>
\nIt is easier to fool someone than to convince them that they have been fooled” – Mark Twain<\/p>\n

A favorite vacation spot?<\/strong>
\nSan Diego<\/p>\n

What do love about the Black community or being Black?<\/strong>
\nOur resilience through it all! (plus our food, humor, and artistic nature!)<\/p>\n

What do you know for sure?<\/strong>
\nJesus is real!<\/p>\n

Who do you admire (living)?<\/strong>
\nMy dad and brothers<\/p>\n

What gives you hope?<\/strong>
\nGod’s grace and the power of young people!<\/p>\n

What would you tell your younger teenage self?<\/strong>
\nTrust God and stay the course even when you don’t understand how or why!<\/p>\n

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<\/h2>\n

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Good People Doing Good<\/span><\/h2>\n

Celebrating the good work of Blake D. Morant (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201975, Law<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201978)!<\/span><\/h3>\n

A native of Hampton, Virginia, Blake came of age on the Hampton University campus through participation in annual summer music institutes, which contributed to his expertise as a clarinetist. He brought that talent to UVA\u2019s Wind Ensemble and Orchestra, where he served as principal clarinetist and concertmaster. His musical pursuits continued as a member of The Glee Club. As a Rhetoric and Communications major with a thesis, Blake developed and honed writing skills that would serve him well at UVA Law and in the practice of law as a U.S. Army Judge Advocate General Corps officer, private practitioner, and a legal academic. A former Dean at Wake Forest University School of Law and The George Washington Law School, Blake now serves as a Distinguished Counselor for The Association of American Law Schools and is a regular contributor to Forbes<\/a>. His experience in higher education and the moral obligation to contribute to society inspire his scholarship and contributions to Forbes. Also, his friendship with the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who believed in \u201cgiving back\u201d to society, heavily influences his writings. When asked why he loves UVA, Blake says he is captivated by UVA\u2019s richness of cultures and breadth of opportunities and that the University broadened his horizons. He is married to Paulette Jones Morant (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201974)<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Claps for Bettina Byrd-Giles (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201989) for Preserving Family History!<\/span><\/h3>\n

UVA Black History<\/span><\/h2>\n

Over the years, many students, staff, faculty, and non-university journalists have researched various historical moments and movements about the Black community. Each newsletter will reference two articles or documents of interest.<\/p>\n

Bettina Byrd-Giles (Col<\/abbr> class of <\/span>\u201989)<\/strong> tells the inspirational story of her paternal grandmother, Audrey Bacon Byrd, through film. As the executive producer, Byrd-Giles seeks support for creation of \u201cThe Booker T. Washington Effect: Audrey\u2019s Story,\u201d<\/a> which is a captivating documentary series that delves into the extraordinary life of Bacon Byrd. The journey traces her history, including formerly enslaved ancestors who lived in a Texas Freedom Colony, which were self-sustaining independent spaces whereby Blacks could avoid the perils of debt bondage, sharecropping, and racialized violence from White communities. Bacon Byrd experienced a vibrant childhood while living in San Antonio, transformative college years at Tuskegee Institute, and impactful years as an educator in Chicago. At the heart of Bacon Byrd\u2019s narrative is the profound influence of Booker T. Washington. The series skillfully traces how Washington’s teachings and tireless efforts to uplift the African American community left an indelible mark on her life. Connect with Bettina at bettinabyrdgiles@gmail.com<\/a> to engage her work with your network. To learn more about her work, visit the film’s gofundme<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n