The Urban League of Union County Celebrates 80th Anniversary Milestone Celebration

(L-R) National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial, and Crystal A. Orr, President/CEO of the Urban League of Union County, at Urban League of Union County's 80th Anniversary Gala

Since its establishment in 1944, the Urban League of Union County has remained steadfast in its mission to uplift African Americans and other marginalized communities, striving for economic self-reliance, equal opportunities, and social justice. Through its comprehensive programs, the non-profit has empowered countless individuals and families, creating positive change within a community that has done nothing but reinvest into the ULOUC what it has gained from the organization's work.

Recognizing that its impressive legacy would not be possible without the support of key individuals, the Urban League of Union County took advantage of its 80th Anniversary Gala - hosted on October 4, 2024 - to celebrate the collaborators who have helped the organization serve its North Jersey community over the past year. In addition to treating guests to a night of dancing, dining and entertainment, the ULOUC honored and spotlighted individuals who have either gone above and beyond in their support of the organization, or excelled in community-centered work that echoes the ULOUC's mission of "Empowering Communities & Changing Lives."

The ULOUC presented a total of six awards during this year's Anniversary Gala, including the Whitney M. Young Award, which was presented to Clarence Bauknight, Esq. - the organization's longest-serving board member, John Harmon, Sr.- I Am Empowered Award, Harris Freir-Donna Lowe Alexander Urban League Award, A Corporate Partner Award and Community Partner Award will also be presented to Elizabethtown Gas/South Jersey Industries and City of Elizabeth Housing Authority, respectively. This year's celebration featured a passion filled speech by the National Urban League CEO, Marc Morial, reminding guests of the incredible past accomplishments of the branch and its incredibly bright future.  American Water, Kean University, and Elizabethtown Gas/South Jersey Industries served as key sponsors.

"I'm so happy we concluded our 80th anniversary celebrations with such an incredible gala. It was our biggest event yet, with overwhelming support from so many new sponsors and our community. I'm especially grateful that Marc Morial, National Urban League President & CEO, could join us—not only to inspire us with his words of encouragement but also to honor one of our 50-year members with a special pinning ceremony. This gala was truly the perfect culmination of all the work we've been doing at the Urban League of Union County. It also gave us a chance to celebrate our honorees and our former CEO, Ella S. Teal, whose legacy continues to inspire us. Reflecting on this year, I'm so proud of everything we accomplished: hosting our first-ever Legacy Breakfast to honor our elders and guild members, holding our annual meeting, co-sponsoring the Juneteenth Festival, and finally capping it off with this milestone gala. I'm beyond grateful to my board, my team, all the attendees and our sponsors for making this year such a tremendous success." - Crystal Orr, President and CEO of the Urban League of Union County.

In recent years, the ULOUC's key programs have shifted to better address the modern needs of Union County Residents. The organization's current slate of services include Housing Services, offering housing counseling and financial support to prevent evictions and uplift low income households; the Reconnections Program, which aids formerly incarcerated individuals in reintegrating into society with essential support; a Mental Health and Wellness Program addressing the mental health needs of individuals affected by incarceration and the COVID-19 pandemic; the Financial Opportunity Center, providing financial coaching and career development services; multiple Youth Programs, inspiring entrepreneurship and STEM education among young people; Community Engagement and Outreach, strengthening community bonds through events like our College Fair and Juneteenth Festival. "I am truly humbled to witness the profound impact we have made in the lives of thousands of individuals and families throughout the years," said President and CEO Crystal A. Orr in a letter to supporters.

About Urban League of Union County:
The Urban League of Union County (ULUC) is a non-profit community service organization founded in 1944 and incorporated in 1952. We are one of 90 affiliates of the National Urban League. The Urban League supplies information on the minority population, conducts surveys, training programs, secures jobs, motivates youth, and provides essential services in education, housing, health, employment, and advocacy.

Jahnay Bryan Is Missing!

Jahnay Bryan, 23, was reported missing on Oct. 16, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Bryan was last seen near the 2000 block of West 8th Street in the L.A.’s Westlake neighborhood.

She is described as a Black female standing 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing about 125 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone who may have seen the woman or knows of her whereabouts is urged to call LAPD Detective Avalos at 213-996-1800. The public can also call the LAPD at 1-877-527-3247.

Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

Monique Guillory, a New Orleans native, named Dillard University’s ninth president

Dillard University’s Board of Trustees has named Monique Guillory, a native New Orleanian who has served as interim president for the last seven months, as the ninth president of the 155-year-old historically Black university.

Guillory posted the following letter about her appointment as Dillard's ninth president:

Dear Dillard University Community,

I cannot adequately articulate my gratitude for the outpouring of support and encouragement I have received following yesterday’s announcement from the Board of Trustees to appoint me as the ninth President of Dillard University. Your confidence in my leadership fills me with humility and excitement. I look forward to working with you as we embark on this journey of renewal, undeterred by the formidable challenges which characterize the current higher education landscape. 

Thank you for your steadfast support and dedication to this illustrious institution. Over the past seven months as I served in the interim role, I was inspired by the profound passion so many of you possess for Dillard’s mission, as well as a genuine commitment to the students this institution has served for the past 155 years. I am privileged to have been called to join you in this vital work, and I am eager to channel our shared vision into tangible outcomes for Dillard’s future.

As we stand at this crossroads, I am reminded of the powerful words from Jeremiah 29:11 we have all found solace in during difficult times: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope for the future.” This verse resonates deeply with me as we navigate the uncertainties ahead. It serves as a reminder that we are never alone; and whenever we might be tempted to despair, that crisis comes with divine purpose guiding us toward a hopeful future.

The challenges we face—shifting enrollment trends, financial constraints, and the questionable future of higher education, nationwide—demand more than resilience, but also bravery and boldness. Together, we can seize this moment to innovate, to think beyond conventional boundaries, and work to create an institution that is not only sustainable but also transformative. I believe that the plans we forge together will address our immediate needs while leading us into a future filled with promise and possibility – an exemplar for the world of the critical need for education in times such as these.

I envision a collaborative agenda that invites all voices within our community to play a role in shaping our future. We must engage in open discussions that ignite creativity and inspire new ideas. Let us harness the extraordinary talent and passion present among our faculty, staff, students, trustees, and alumni. Together, we can explore new academic programs and pedagogical approaches, forge meaningful partnerships in our community, and enhance the student experience in ways that resonate with today’s learners.

Our mission as a liberal arts HBCU is more important than ever. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that Dillard University remains a beacon of hope, learning, and opportunity for generations to come. In the days ahead, I am eager to roll up my sleeves alongside each of you. I invite you to join me for our first town hall of the new year on Tuesday, January 28 at 11 a.m. CT in Georges Auditorium, or via livestream. At this time, I will share with the Dillard community more insights into our institutional priorities, plans, and expectations for the future. 

Thank you once again for this remarkable opportunity. I am excited for the journey ahead and look forward to working closely with all of you as we reimagine Dillard. I wish you all a blessed and joyous holiday season. 

 Fair Dillard Forever,

Monique Guillory, Ph.D.

President 

Senate Passes Jackie Robinson Ballpark Commemorative Site Act

On Friday December 20, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan, bicameral Jackie Robinson Ballpark National Commemorative Site Act, introduced by Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA). The House version, introduced by Congressmen Mike Waltz (FL-06) and Darren Soto (FL-09), passed the House of Representatives earlier this week. The bill now goes to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

The Jackie Robinson Ballpark National Commemorative Site Act honors the stadium where Jackie Robinson played his first professional game and broke the color barrier in baseball. Under this legislation, the Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach, Florida, home of the Daytona Tortugas, would be designated as a National Commemorative Site and direct the Secretary of Interior to conduct a feasibility study to give the site the designation of National Historic Landmark. The bill is co-sponsored by the entire Florida House delegation and has the support from both Major and Minor League Baseball.

“Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach has been a landmark in the history of the Civil Rights movement and of Florida,” said Waltz. “On March 17th, 1946, Jackie Robinson changed professional baseball forever when he stepped out onto the field and broke the color barrier in the sport. His courage that day not only redefined the game but also signaled a profound step forward in the fight for civil rights in America. This bill preserves and honors Jackie Robinson’s legacy, the pivotal role he played in Daytona Beach’s history, and the lasting impact he made on America as a whole. I’m deeply thankful for Senator Rubio and Senator Warnock’s leadership on this bill in the Senate, and I call on President Biden to sign it into law.”

HBCU Knoxville College Appoints Dr. Rotesha Harris New President

The Knoxville College Board of Trustees is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Rotesha Harris as the 32nd President of Knoxville College. With a steadfast commitment to education and a proven record of excellence in leadership, Dr. Harris will continue to guide the college in its efforts to regain full accreditation and expand its legacy of academic distinction.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment in Knoxville College’s history as it prepares to celebrate 150 years of existence. Founded in 1875, Knoxville College has remained a cornerstone of educational empowerment, especially for historically underserved communities.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Harris at the helm during this transformative time,” said Dr. Eric Barnes, Chair of the Knoxville College Board of Trustees. “Her unmatched skill set, dedication to academic excellence, and strong work ethic make her the perfect leader to usher Knoxville College into its next chapter of growth and achievement.”

With nearly two decades of distinguished experience in higher education, Dr. Harris brings a wealth of expertise in administration, accounting, compliance, and audit. Her leadership will enhance Knoxville College’s efforts to expand academic programs, strengthen partnerships, and further its mission of fostering a transformative educational environment.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the 32nd president of Knoxville College,” said Dr. Harris. “As we approach this historic milestone of 150 years, I am committed to ensuring that Knoxville College continues to be a beacon of opportunity and excellence. Together, we will strengthen our foundation and work diligently to regain accreditation, ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come.”

Under Dr. Harris’s leadership, Knoxville College will continue its legacy of creating opportunities for students to excel in academics and beyond while renewing its commitment to delivering a world-class education.

About Knoxville College

Knoxville College, founded in 1875, is East Tennessee’s only historically Black college. For nearly 150 years, it has been a cornerstone of leadership and excellence, dedicated to providing access to quality education and fostering a strong sense of community. Knoxville College remains steadfast in its mission to empower students and shape future leaders.