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Check out the latest Ram Magazine.
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135th Anniversary Celebration
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HUSTON-TILLOTSON UNIVERSARY
COMMEMORATES ITS 135 YEAR HISTORY
(AUSTIN, Texas) 8.27.10 —A four-day celebration will commemorate the 135th anniversary for Austin’s oldest institution of higher education—Huston-Tillotson University. The University, a symbol of hope, with roots dating back to 1875 for Tillotson College and 1876 for Samuel Huston College, was founded by The United Methodist Church and the United Church of Christ to educate freed slaves. Its diverse student population continues its legacy and promise of access to education for all.
The Charter Day Convocation, marking the anniversary, will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 22 on the campus in King-Seabrook Chapel, 900 Chicon Street. Charter Day represents the official designated celebration of the Board of Trustees’ signing of the State of Texas Charter of Incorporation that established Huston-Tillotson College (now known as Huston-Tillotson University). The 1952 merger created one of the largest black Protestant church-related colleges in the country at the time.
A highlight of the 135th Anniversary celebration includes a concert Friday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church by world-renowned artists Carmen Bradford and Melba Joyce against a backdrop of a 135-voice choir. Bradford, who attended Huston-Tillotson in the late 1970s, was discovered and hired by Count Basie and was the featured vocalist in the legendary Count Basie Orchestra for nine years. She played the lead role in Duke Ellington’s “Queenie Pie” that was released in Austin this summer. Joyce, her mother, was the opening act for many musical greats including Smokey Robinson and the Miracles. She also shared the jazz festival bill with Miles Davis, Freddy Hubbard, and Bobby Hutcherson to name a few. Tickets are $50 for VIP seating; $25 for general admission; and $5 for students. Huston-Tillotson University officials will also mark the observance with a site location ceremony for the new planned Health and Wellness Center. The Center, the first new building on the campus since 1974, will house the kinesiology and intercollegiate athletics departments, and a community health clinic as well as a new University gymnasium.
The celebration will begin on Thursday, Oct. 21 at 1 p.m. with a symposium in King-Seabrook Chapel on health disparities among underserved populations. The commemoration will conclude on Sunday, Oct. 24 with University Day at Wesley United Methodist Church, 1160 San Bernard, at 10 a.m. Alumnus Dr. J.D. Phillips will deliver the sermon. The Huston-Tillotson University Concert Choir, under the direction of Dr. Gloria Quinlan, will render the music.
An overview of the 135th Anniversary celebration activities is as follows:
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Day/Date
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Time
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Event
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Location
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Thurs., Oct. 21
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1:00 p.m.
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Symposium on Health and Wellness
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King-Seabrook Chapel
900 Chicon Street
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Fri., Oct. 22
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10 a.m.
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Charter Day Convocation
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King-Seabrook Chapel
900 Chicon Street
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Fri., Oct. 22
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12:30 p.m.
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Health and Wellness Center Site Location Ceremony
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Athletic Field
900 Chicon Street
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Fri, Oct. 22
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7:00 p.m.
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Jazz Concert Featuring
Carmen Bradford and Melba Joyce
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First United Methodist Church
1201 Lavaca Street
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Sat., Oct. 23
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4 p.m. -
6 p.m.
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Jazz on Bluebonnet Hill
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Seventh Street side of campus
900 Chicon Street
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Sun., Oct. 24
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10:00 a.m.
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Wesley United Methodist Church’s University Day
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1164 San Bernard Street
Austin, Texas 78702
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The University is experiencing record enrollment, increased graduation rates, infrastructure enhancements, and two successful Southern Association of Colleges and Schools reaffirmations under the leadership of President Larry L. Earvin.
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1875
Rev. George Jeffrey Tillotson built upon the work of the Freemen’s Aid Society of the American Missionary Association of the Congregational churches (now the United Church of Christ) to establish Tillotson College.
1875
What is now Huston-Tillotson University is Austin’s oldest institution of higher education.
1876
Samuel Huston College established in the basement of St. Paul Methodist Episcopal Church in Dallas, Texas, while the Rev. George Warren Richardson, a Methodist minister, strengthened the foundation of the school and facilitated a relocation.
1877
Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute was chartered.
1878
Samuel Huston College was moved from Dallas, Texas, to Austin, Texas, and housed in the basement of Wesley United Methodist Church.
1879
The first building on the Tillotson campus, Allen Hall, was constructed on land this is now 900 Chicon Street.
1912
The three-story Evans Industrial Hall was constructed for adding industrial arts to the sciences and an academic program in home economics.
1913
Students made the cement blocks to construct the building formerly known as the Old Administration Building that is now the Anthony and Louise Viaer- Alumni Hall. Construction was completed in 1914.
1930
Tillotson College’s first woman president, Dr. Mary E. Branch, was named.
1944
Samuel Huston College President Dr. Karl E. Downs named baseball great Jackie Robinson as the men’s basketball coach. Robinson was named the athletic director. Downs also performed the marriage ceremony uniting Jackie and Rachel Robinson.
1952
Samuel Huston College, located at what is now Twelfth Street (then College Avenue) and IH-35 (then East Avenue), and Tillotson College merged officially to create Huston-Tillotson College. The 1952 merger created one of the largest black Protestant church-related colleges in the country. The Charter was signed on October 24, 1952.
1965
Huston-Tillotson College’s longest serving president, Dr. John Q. Taylor King, Sr., was named and served until 1988.
2005
Dr. Larry L. Earvin, president, facilitated the name change from Huston-Tillotson College to Huston-Tillotson University, effective February 28, 2005.
2009
Huston-Tillotson University continued its record enrollment growth while approaching 1,000 students. The University experienced increased graduation rates and infrastructure enhancements.
2010
The University completed a successful reaffirmation by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
2011
The site location ceremony for the new Health and Wellness Center marked the first new construction on campus since 1974.
Huston-Tillotson University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award baccalaureate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097 or call 404.679.4500 for questions about the accreditation of Huston-Tillotson University.
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HT Announces the Rent-A-Text Program
(AUSTIN, Texas) 6.29.10 — Huston-Tillotson University officials today announced it will begin offering textbook rental services at the on campus Follett bookstore this fall. Rent-A-Text will offer students a rental option on textbooks – creating savings that represent 50 percent or more off the price of new textbooks.
“We are eager to launch Rent-A-Text because we are committed to providing students with affordable textbook choices,” said Terry S. Smith, Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement . “In addition to the $400 per semester book voucher that the University provides to full-time students, this will allow students to increase their textbook buying power.”
Huston-Tillotson University’s textbook rental program will:
· Be available to students in-store and online with in-store pick up;
· Allow students to chose a preferred form of payment, including financial aid and campus cards;
· Allow students the freedom to highlight and take notes all within the normal wear and tear associated with coursework; and
· Give students the choice to buy their textbook at the end of the term if they want to keep the book.
Rent-A-Text will be offered through Huston-Tillotson University’s ongoing partnership with the Follett Higher Education Group. The program is based on Follett’s comprehensive pilot program that saved students nearly $2 million on their course materials in just one semester at seven schools. More than 90 percent of students surveyed who rented textbooks expressed satisfaction with the pilot program.
“We have been at the forefront of cost-savings programs for more than a century,” said Thomas A. Christopher, President of Follett Higher Education Group. “Helping to reduce the costs of higher education is part of our mission and we look forward to working with Huston-Tillotson University to deliver substantial textbook savings to students.”
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Alfraid Manning
'I chose Huston-Tillotson because it is a small college
that makes me feel comfortable.'
I would describe myself as shy, quiet, and smart. I’m not like most college students who enjoy drinking and partying, I’m more conservative.
My dad, Don, is an assistant pastor and my mom, Tina, is a second grade school teacher. I have three older brothers and one older sister. I enjoy fishing, playing basketball, listening to music, and running track. I am a very strong believer in Christ and like going to church.
I was born in Palestine, Texas, on February 5, 1989. I grew up and attended elementary through high school in Fairfield, Texas. I never heard of Huston-Tillotson University or ever thought about attending a small college in Austin while I was in high school. I ran track and advanced to the state track meet where I met Coach Howard Ware (HT’s track and field coach), and he told me about the school. I wasn’t quite sure if this was the place for me, but I came for a campus tour. I decided that this was the place for me after visiting Huston-Tillotson and being offered a track scholarship. I come from a small country town and getting adjusted to the fast pace of the city was going to take some time.
I chose Huston-Tillotson because it is a small college that makes me feel comfortable. I can have one-on-one time, and I can even stop my professor in the middle of a lecture and ask a question, because of the small class sizes. I also chose Huston-Tillotson because it is easier to make friends here than it is at a bigger university. I see the same people everyday, which helps me get to know them.
I see myself as a businessman, dressed in a suit, and carrying a brief case. After the first two years, I have had many accomplishments in academics and in athletics. I have managed to obtain a 3.7 grade point average. I have the highest grade point average of the entire men’s track and field team. In 2008 I was the most valuable player and the male winner of the Champions of Character award. I am a two-time indoor and outdoor national qualifier.
I am currently a junior, and I plan to become the businessman I have often dreamed of becoming after running track professionally for a couple of years.
DeMarco Wingwood
‘I know I can do this.’
DeMarco Wingwood, a senior, wrote these words about his desire for a bachelor's degree and his Huston-Tillotson University experience.
I was born and raised in Austin, Texas, and graduated from Johnston High School (now East Side Memorial). I was raised by my grandmother. My grandmother has been great to me. She made sure I was well taken care of and provided me with all the essentials in life without hesitation.
On the other hand, my grandmother was strict and didn’t allow much nonsense. This tough love created the thick skin I possess. Not only was she there for me, she was there for my sister who has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Since my sister has this condition, my view on life has been, for the most part, humbled. I knew that life without her would be completely different. Life with her without cerebral palsy would be unimaginable.
My reason for attending HT wasn’t based upon a dream. It was merely an economical choice at a time of disarray in my life. My time at HT from 2001-2005 was filled with friendships and fun. My grades fluctuated between semesters and my focus lingered. I was headed toward disaster. Then, a love interest (my wife), meant stepping away from school and focusing on life.
I was able to experience the workforce on the lower level, understand the importance of effective management, the need for higher education, and, most importantly, the love of family. These experiences created my drive.
My drive as a student today is now fueled by an everlasting fire: spousal support and internal resolve.
I felt bad because my brother-in-law came to HT after me and graduated before me. I was seeing myself through him. Seeing him cross the stage made me feel bad. However, my tenacious journey has and will be much deserving once I cross that stage (during commencement).
To receive my bachelor’s in business administration with a concentration in accounting will be a true honor and an example of self-determination and perseverance.
Read more student profiles in the Ram Magazine posted to the left.
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Breaion S. King Named Miss HT for 2010-2011
(AUSTIN, Texas) 6.4.10 — Breaion S. King was crowned Miss Huston-Tillotson University for the 2010-2011 academic year.
King, age 20, is a music education and involved in many campus activities and programs. She serves as vice president and historian of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Upsilon Alpha Chapter, a member of the Student Government Association, and Pre-Alumni Council, and sings in the concert choir. She was featured on the cover of the Ram Magazine (left) as part of the “Queenie Pie” cast. She is also involved in Campus Ministry’s Aiming to Preserve a People Evoked by an Aspiration for Leadership and Service (A.P.P.E.A.L.S.) is a praise dancer, and member of the gospel choir.
She plans to pursue a career as a classroom educator upon graduating.
King is the daughter of the James F. King and the late Kendra D. Middleton.
King’s coronation will be held on Nov. 4, 2010.
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CATRICE E. SMEDLEY NAMED HT’S MISS UNCF
(AUSTIN, Texas) 1.23.10 — Catrice E. Smedley, age 19, was crowned Huston-Tillotson University’s Miss UNCF at a recent coronation. Smedley is a second year student from Dallas, Texas, majoring in math education. She is a member of the Pre-Alumni Council, Quiet Storms (poetry club), and the concert and gospel choirs. She is also a peer advisor and Prayer Warriors ministry leader. She will represent the University at the national United Negro College Fund pageant in February in New Orleans, Louisiana.
She is the daughter of Tedra and Reginald Smedley and the granddaughter of Ella Pearl and Willie Bruce Mooring. After obtaining her undergraduate degree and teaching certificate, Catrice plans to become a high school mathematics teacher.
Huston-Tillotson University, the oldest institution of higher education in Austin, Texas, is a charter member of UNCF, which is the nation’s oldest and most successful minority higher education assistance organization, founded in 1944. Today, UNCF provides financial support to its 39 member institutions and increases minority degree attainment by reducing financial barriers to college. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 25 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship programs, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 900 colleges and universities across the country.
Pictured with Smedley are contestants DeAnna Penn (left) and Breaion S. King, President Larry L. Earvin and HT's 2009 Miss UNCF Danica R. McKinney.
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Text "52000" and "HT" to Give
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HT LAUNCHES A $5 MOBILE GIVING FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
(AUSTIN, Texas) 11.3.09 — Texting HT to 52000 on a cell telephone will forward $5 to Huston-Tillotson University as part of a new mobile giving fundraising campaign.
The program was designed to attract and encourage giving from recent graduates who are comfortable with many different forms of technology. “We created the concept with the Millennial Generation and Generation Y in mind, but everyone can take advantage of the easy, convenient tool for giving,” said Vicki Minor, Vice President for Institutional Advancement. While giving is increasing overall among all groups at Huston-Tillotson after last year’s economic downturn, giving among young alumni has remained level. “We’re excited about the giving potential of the campaign, and encourage everyone to start texting to 52000,” said Minor.
The 52000 code is close to HT’s 1952 merger year when Samuel Huston and Tillotson Colleges merged to form Huston-Tillotson College and now Huston-Tillotson University. Recently, University officials announced a 12% increase in enrollment from last year, which reflects the highest enrollment since the 1952 merger with 882 students matriculating. More than 94% of HT students receive financial aid.
The $5 contribution is donated directly from a subscriber’s cell telephone and charged to their monthly telephone bills.
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HT REACHES ITS HIGHEST ENROLLMENT
SINCE 1952
(AUSTIN, Texas) 9.24.09 — Huston-Tillotson University officials today announced a 12% increase in enrollment from last year and the highest enrollment since the 1952 merger with 882 students matriculating. The increase represents nine years of growth under Larry L. Earvin who became president in 2000.
Increases during the period have also occurred among males and Hispanics. The Hispanic population moved into double digits at 13% earlier this year. The male population surpassed females during the Spring 2008 enrollment when males comprised 58% of the entering first-year class.
University officials credit the enrollment increase to targeted, concentrated recruitment efforts that included face-to-face visits, letters, and follow up telephone calls by not only recruiters but faculty and staff. In addition, scholarship opportunities through programs such as the W.E.B. DuBois Honors Program and Pathway to Academic Success and Socialization (PASS) program also contributed to the success.
The William Edward Burghardt DuBois Honors Program, which is named for the African American sociologist, civil rights advocate, and intellectual of the 20th century, seeks to attract academically talented students whose high school accomplishments indicate their intellectual ability, level of motivation, and leadership potential. PASS, which includes a summer bridge component, is designed to help entering first-year students succeed in college through a living-learning community that includes cultural enrichment, recreation, and group activities designed to promote interpersonal skills and leadership.
Huston-Tillotson, a four-year, historically black, liberal arts University with a 134 year history, is comprised of students from 14 countries, including the United States. The majority of the students are from Central Texas followed by Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio, respectively. African Americans comprise approximately 77% of the students enrolled.
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor Science degrees are offered in biology, business administration, chemistry, computer science, criminal justice, English, history, kinesiology, mathematics, music, political science, psychology, sociology, and teacher education. Business administration, kinesiology, and criminal justice are the top three majors.
Formed after the merger of two former institutions, Samuel Huston College, founded in 1875, and Tillotson College, established in 1876, the University is Austin’s oldest institution of higher education.
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Rep. Doggett Secures $350,000 for
HT’s Science Center
Washington, DC –7.14.09 – U.S. Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) has secured another $350,000 for the Huston-Tillotson University in the Labor, Health, and Education Appropriations Bill. These federal funds are in addition to previous successes of the Congressman for Huston-Tillotson.
“Huston-Tillotson is giving its students the tools they need to succeed in the 21st century. This institution is preparing them for the high-paying, high-tech jobs that will power our economy today and in the future,” said Congressman Doggett, a senior Member of the House Ways & Means Committee and the House Budget Committee. “As a long-time supporter and neighbor of Huston-Tillotson, I am pleased that these federal funds will assist Huston-Tillotson to continue making great strides in math and science.”
University President Dr. Larry Earvin welcomed the news of federal funding. “These funds will enable the University to outfit its laboratories in chemistry, biology and physical science to meet contemporary standards. Funds will also be used to extend the University’s outreach programs in science and mathematics for pre-college students. Together these two dimensions of the science initiative will have a meaningful impact on the numbers of students pursing science education.”
These funds will help develop the Math and Science Center operated by Huston Tillotson University, including the significant renovations of the Dickey-Lawless Science Building, retrofitting chemistry, biology, and physics laboratories, and replacement of student work stations to foster classroom interaction. The program serves as a best practice model that addresses the decline in scientists and mathematicians, particularly in growing minority populations. The Center encourages both undergraduate students and creates a pipeline for middle and high school students to pursue college training in these fields.
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ATCP Candidates Earn Certificate
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THIRTY-EIGHT CANDIDATES COMPLETE HT'S
ALTERNATIVE TEACHER CERTIFICATE PROGRAM
(AUSTIN, Texas) 4.27.09 — Thirty-eight candidates enrolled in Huston-Tillotson University’s Alternative Teacher Certification Program completed the yearlong training, internship, and testing to receive their Standard Teaching Certificate for the State of Texas. The candidates, all of whom are employed in school districts or private accredited schools, received their certification as teachers in Bilingual Education, Generalist EC-4, Generalist 4-8, English as a Second Language, Mathematics 4-8, Physical Education EC-12, Social Studies 4-8 and 8-12, or Special Education EC-12.
The graduates are: Ryman Barnes, Cerrissa Bates, Moncheire Bedford, Ronald Bell, Jessica Boone, Robert Brandhorst, Brian Braudrick, Soniette Bryant, Michelle Byers, Kristie Carroll, Jaime Carvajal, Joshua Colvin, Claudia Del Castillo, Nhung Do, Stefanie Drake, Richard Fields, III, Steven Gradney, Tika Hill, Vicki Hollenshead, Robert Lee Hull, Phillip Ifera, Mia Jacobs, Amanda Jobe, Jessica Kirdaldy, Edward Loomis, William Lyons, Joy Moore, Tanya Moore, Katherine Redus, Graylon Roberson, Loretta Robinson, Teresa Terrazas, Roger Ugalde, Joseph Vigil, Aursha Walker, Suzanne Wallace, Alethia Ware, and Maiana Westerfield. Pictured are some of the candidates with faculty Susan Browne (third row, left).
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