Photo By: Julie Yarbrough

This past weekend, from March 28 to March 30, 2025, the Robert W. Woodruff Library buzzed with innovation and creativity as it hosted the third annual HBCU Game Jam. The highly anticipated 24-hour hackathon brought together Historically Black College and University (HBCU) students to develop their own video games and compete for industry-sponsored prizes. This year’s event marked a significant milestone— for the first time in its history, the HBCU Game Jam was planned entirely by students.

A Student-Driven Event

As students arrived, the excitement was palpable. The HBCU Game Jam has always been a beginner-friendly competition, welcoming participants with little to no game development experience. Hosted in collaboration with major industry players such as Zynga, Microsoft, Unity, CodeHouse, and Boeing, the event aimed to bridge the gap in the gaming industry, where Black professionals make up only 5% of the workforce, according to a survey by the International Game Developers Association.

To level the playing field, organizers provided free game development workshops and seminars ahead of the competition. These sessions served as a crash course in video game creation, ensuring that even first-time developers had the tools and confidence to compete.

Record-Breaking Participation

Building on the momentum of previous years, this year’s Game Jam saw participation from over 120 students representing six HBCUs. Remarkably, nearly 50% of these students had never created a video game before. Yet, through teamwork, mentorship, and perseverance, they conceptualized, designed, and built fully playable games within the 24-hour timeframe.

Industry-Sponsored Prizes and Opportunities

Beyond the thrill of competition, students had the opportunity to network with industry professionals and recruiters from leading gaming companies. The top teams received prestigious awards and exclusive mentorship opportunities with industry giants, paving the way for future careers in game development.

As the final games were presented, the room was filled with admiration for the creativity and ingenuity displayed by the students. The HBCU Game Jam continues to be a beacon of opportunity, breaking down barriers and fostering the next generation of Black game developers. With its first student-led planning committee proving to be a resounding success, the future of this groundbreaking event looks brighter than ever.

Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has suspended all fraternity and sorority activities following the sudden death of a student. Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old junior majoring in mechanical engineering, passed away after attending an off-campus fraternity event last week.

According to Baton Rouge police, the gathering took place at North Sherwood Forest Community Park and involved members of Omega Psi Phi. Witnesses reported that Wilson collapsed while standing in line during the event. He was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Authorities are conducting an autopsy to determine Wilson’s exact cause of death. While hazing has not been officially confirmed as a factor, law enforcement has launched an investigation. Sgt. L’Jean McKneely stated that detectives are actively reviewing all relevant details before making any determinations.

“All that information the detectives will look at, and that will determine where we go,” McKneely said.

Wilson, a graduate of Warren Easton High School, was a talented musician and a proud member of Southern’s renowned Human Jukebox marching band. The organization honored his memory in a heartfelt Facebook post, describing him as “a talented trumpet player, a dedicated student, and a bright soul.”

Southern University also released a statement acknowledging Wilson’s passing.

“Southern University and A&M College is aware of an off-campus incident that may have resulted in the death of student Caleb Wilson, a junior from New Orleans majoring in mechanical engineering,” the statement read.

The university expressed its condolences to Wilson’s family and friends, stating that it is fully cooperating with the Baton Rouge Police Department in the investigation. No additional details have been provided, and the school has not commented on whether Omega Psi Phi will face disciplinary action.

Omega Psi Phi Responds to Student’s Death

The international headquarters of Omega Psi Phi fraternity issued a statement mourning Wilson’s passing.

“It is with profound sorrow that we extend our condolences on the passing of Caleb Wilson. His loss is deeply felt, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by him,” the statement read.

The fraternity described Wilson as more than just a student, noting his passion for academics, music, and leadership. They also confirmed their support for the ongoing investigation.

“We have been informed that the local authorities have launched an investigation into this tragic incident, and we fully support their efforts to seek the truth. Currently, our foremost priority is standing in unwavering support of Caleb’s family. We have extended ourselves to them and are ready to assist in any way possible during this difficult time.”

The fraternity urged patience as more details emerge, concluding, “In the meantime, we ask for your prayers and solidarity as we honor Caleb’s memory and support those grieving his loss.”

As the investigation continues, the Southern University community mourns the loss of a promising young scholar and musician whose impact will not be forgotten.

Roberta Flack, the legendary Grammy-winning singer and pianist, left an indelible mark on the music industry with her soulful voice and intimate style. Her passing at the age of 88 marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations, particularly students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) who dream of making an impact through their talents.

A Musical Prodigy at Howard University

Roberta Flack’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and extraordinary talent. Born in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and raised in Arlington, Virginia, she displayed an early gift for music. By the age of nine, she was already mastering the piano, and by 15, she earned a full music scholarship to Howard University, making her one of the youngest students ever to enroll.

At Howard, Flack initially studied classical piano, a field dominated by white artists at the time. However, her passion for music soon led her to transition into voice, where she honed her signature sound. She became an assistant conductor of the university choir, where she directed a production of Aida that received a standing ovation from faculty and students alike. Her time at Howard not only refined her technical skills but also deepened her connection to the rich history and culture of Black music.

Howard University: A Foundation for Greatness

HBCUs have long been breeding grounds for excellence, fostering some of the greatest minds and talents in various fields. For Flack, Howard University was more than an institution—it was the place where she discovered her artistic identity and gained the confidence to step into the world as a musician. Her professors and peers recognized her genius early on, encouraging her to push the boundaries of classical and contemporary music. The rigorous training she received at Howard gave her the foundation to become one of the most influential artists of her generation.

Flack’s success serves as a beacon of hope for current HBCU students who aspire to leave their mark in the arts. Her journey demonstrates the power of Black institutions in shaping history-making individuals. Her story is a testament to the fact that HBCUs are not just places of learning but incubators of greatness.

Breaking Barriers in the Music Industry

After graduating from Howard at 19, Flack briefly pursued graduate studies before the sudden death of her father forced her to take a teaching job in Farmville, North Carolina. Even while teaching, her passion for music never waned. She performed in Washington, D.C. clubs at night, where jazz great Les McCann discovered her. Her breakthrough came in 1972 when Clint Eastwood featured her rendition of The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face in his film Play Misty for Me, catapulting her to international fame.

Throughout the 1970s, Flack dominated the charts with hits like Killing Me Softly With His Song, Feel Like Makin’ Love, and duets with fellow Howard University alum Donny Hathaway, such as Where Is the Love and The Closer I Get to You. Her ability to blend jazz, soul, and classical influences set her apart in an industry often reluctant to embrace versatility in Black artists.

A Lasting Legacy for HBCU Students

Roberta Flack’s journey from a gifted child to a global icon is a powerful reminder that HBCUs provide a platform for greatness. Her legacy should inspire today’s students at Howard and beyond to embrace their unique gifts and persevere despite obstacles. Whether in music, business, activism, or academia, HBCU students continue to make groundbreaking contributions, following in the footsteps of pioneers like Flack.

Her impact extends beyond music—she was a cultural icon who used her voice for social change, performing at Jackie Robinson’s funeral and advocating for civil rights. Her contributions to music education, particularly through the Roberta Flack School of Music in New York, ensured that future generations could access the same opportunities that propelled her to success.

Conclusion

Roberta Flack’s legacy is deeply intertwined with her roots at Howard University and the HBCU experience. She stands as proof that Black institutions nurture world-changing talent. As we celebrate her life, let us continue to uplift and support the next generation of HBCU students who, like Flack, have the power to redefine history.

Top 10 Cities for Science & Tech Jobs in 2025: Insights for HBCU Students

With tech roles projected to grow significantly through 2033, here are the best cities to consider for launching a career in science and technology. These cities offer diverse job opportunities, competitive salaries, and strong networking ecosystems.

Wilmington, DE – January 4, 2025 – Lincoln University (PA) women’s basketball delivered an offensive masterclass on Saturday, powering past Shaw University 89-78 in a critical CIAA showdown at Goldey-Beacom College.

Senior guard Ciani Montgomery (Philadelphia, Pa./West Catholic Prep) was unstoppable, dropping 27 points on 12-of-18 shooting while adding 7 assists and 5 rebounds to lead the Lions. Fellow senior Anyssa Fields (Long Branch, N.J./Long Branch) nearly notched a double-double, finishing with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals, while Kaziah Akinniyi (Baltimore, Md./Poly) added 18 points of her own. Freshman Hunter Conway (Belleville, MI/Belleville) chipped in 10 points in a solid supporting role.

Lincoln’s offense was in rhythm from the jump, shooting an impressive 56.7% from the floor and 50% from deep. The Lions dominated the paint with 44 points and capitalized on Shaw’s mistakes, turning 19 turnovers into 21 points. A 51-38 first-half explosion set the tone, and while Shaw made a late push, Lincoln never let the game slip out of their control.

The win moves Lincoln to 6-8 overall and 3-2 in CIAA play, helping the Lions rebound from their previous loss. Up next, they’ll face Fayetteville State University on Saturday, January 6, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Philadelphia, PA, looking to build on this momentum.

Player of the Game: Ciani Montgomery – 27 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds.

Key Stat: Lincoln shot 56.7% from the field, including a blistering 50% from three-point range.

Next Up: Fayetteville State University, January 6, 2025, in Philadelphia, PA.