When some people hear the name Virginia Tech they immediately think of Engineering or Business. Alumnus Tisha Lewis had a different major in mind while a student at Virginia Tech. She traded in a calculator for a camera and pursued a degree in Broadcast Journalism. With a position at Teen Summit already under her belt prior to reaching college, and landing internships at top networks like Fox News, Tisha was well on her way to being a star reporter.
After graduating from Virginia Tech in 2002, with a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism, Tisha was accepted into the prestigious Roger Ailes Apprentice program at Fox News Network in New York City. From there her reporting career took her to California, Miami, and now the midwest where she is a reporter and fill in anchor at FOX 32 News Chicago.
Tisha doesn’t just cover stories about some of Chicago’s tough neighborhoods she works directly in the community as a mentor to teenage girls, through her organization Sisters Peak; which she cofounded with her coworker Robin Robinson.
I had a chance to speak with Tisha to find out more about her day to day as a reporter in the third largest television market in the country and her philanthropic endeavors:
What year did you graduate form Virginia Tech and what was your major?
I graduated in 2002 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. I minored in Spanish.
Where are you originally from and why did you attend Virginia Tech?
I was born in Brooklyn but raised in the Northern VA area. I originally started at Radford University I found myself constantly going to Virginia Tech. So I transferred and it was really a good decision. I just loved the campus, loved the school, loved the environment, and definitely the department.
A lot of people know VA Tech for Engineering so it’s always good to see someone pursue a major like Communication as well.
I started as a Biology premed major and then I shadowed some doctors and realized that I did not want to be around sick people all the time. And I was always a really strong writer. And I had some television experience in my grade school years with the show Teen Summit that aired on BET. So I provide that passion and experience and decided that journalism would be a reallygood pick for me. Something that I would enjoy.
How was it working on Teen Summit?
It was a lot of fun. We were young and we were having so much fun. You don’t realize it until you get much older and people are like I remember seeing you on Teen Summit. I had no idea I was in so many living rooms on Saturday Morning.
It has obviously worked out for you now. Can you tell me about your current career as as a reporter and how you made that transition from Virginia Tech?
I have been out of college 12 years now and it doesn’t feel like something that happened over night. It feels like something that still continues. I am a reporter and anchor. I am in Chicago which is the number 3 market. So that’s fun. I’m looking to transition into more of an anchoring role full time. I started when I got out of college. I started in an entry level position behind the scenes and that kind of gave me flexibility to make a tape
In TV you have to have a tape. I made the mistake that a lot of graduates make. I graduated without a tape. I had been interning and the person that I interned for ended up getting her own show and so I found myself working behind the scenes at an amazing opportunity in New York. So from there I made a tape and I used that to get a job in Bakersfield, California. And from Bakersfield I went to Miami and now I’m here.
Tisha with Arnold Shwarzenegger, while a reporter in Bakersfield, CA.Tisha on set at FOX 59 News in Indianapolis, IN.
What is your day to day like? Can you describe a typical day as a reporter at Fox?
I work 2 pm to 10 pm. I have an editorial meeting at 2 pm where we discuss news of the day, top stories, newsmakers, and headlines. It is also where we suggest and input which stories are making headlines and what people are talking about. From there I am assigned a story and then I conduct my interviews and put my story together and write it. And then I have an executive producer who proofs, tweaks, and makes sure that its perfect and that it gets edited and goes into the editing process. And then our show is at 9:00 and then I go on the air and make magic happen. I go on air and I report the story.
What has been your most memorable moment as a reporter?
Wow. As a whole I would have to say covering the Presidential elections, the inauguration. You know covering President Obama’s first inauguration. That was the first time in my career I felt like I’m covering something historic. History. Elections always feel like this is history happening and I am a part of it.
What station did you cover the inauguration with?
At the time I was with the NBC Station in Miami, WTVJ.
While there you received an Ovation Award from NBC Universal?
I got two Ovation awards while I was with NBC Miami. One was in 2008 and the other was in 2009. Great.
When I covered the inauguration I did the video and a video blog. Keep in mind that was before that was really popular. And so that was something that was exciting to do.
I received the Ovation award because I covered a big court case in Orlando and got a really big exclusive interview with a key witness the day before she took the stand. When I got back to Miami I received the award for that.
In addition to television work I know you give back to the community. You are the founder of Sisters Peak Menotring program. Can you tell me more about Sisters Peak and the mission of the organization?
Sisters Peak mentoring program is an organization that I started with my coworker Robin Robinson and we have adopted the girls at Daniel S. Wentworth Elementary School which is located in Chicago’s Inglewood Neighborhood. It is one of the toughest neighborhoods in Chicago and we meet with them at least once a month and expose them to people that may not normally see and meet, and experiencdes they may not normally have. Our highlight is our book club that we do each year. We have a group of women across the city of Chicago who volunteer their time as mentors for these young girls. It really is an incredible program that is doing so much that wouldn’t be done if this program didn’t exist.
How many years have you been a part of it?
We have been doing it for three years. This is our third year. We’re still going strong.
That is phenomenal. What other organizations are you a part of?
This year I relaunched my blog. It’s called Tisha’s Take. It is on TishaLewis.com. It is a blog that focuses on STEM, social media, and trending topics. It is something that I am really passionate about because I feel like STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) is something that definitely could be stressed more especially in inner city communities and so it’s really incredible and I try to post daily but that’s really where my passion and efforts are being diverted to at the moment.
Tisha wearing Google Glass.
As you’re serving as inspiration to other girls and the community who inspires you?
My mother. My mother has been a huge inspiration to me. She always says finish what you start and always encouraged me and supported me and believed in me and pushed me to be who I am today. Even though I am in the number three market I still have a ways to go to accomplish my dreams. So it never ends, it’s a never ending journey. At some point you will reach your goal and your dream. But right now I’m just continuing on this path.
You said this is your first reunion. Why are you attending the Black Alumni Reunion?
First and foremost I’m attending because I have never been and I have been out of college for 12 years. So I got the postcard invitation in the mail and I was like I have got to go this year! Secondly I’m going because I am trying to remember, I don’t know if I have been back on Tech’s campus. I think I have been back once since I graduated. And that was maybe the year after I graduated I came back once. So I haven’t been on campus in at least a decade. A long long time. It will be really really great to connect with people, and to also network.
Tisha goes undercover for Occupy Wall Street story. Credit: Chicago Now.
Were there any VT Black Alumnni who inspired you?
Hoda Kotb. I would love to meet her. I have not met her yet and I would love to meet her.
The theme for this reunion is Sharing Our Story: Past Present Future. What message would you give past alumni, present and future students at Tech?
My advice to future students would be to start! Just start. If you want to do something get started. Whether that’s going to college. Going to community college, doing, being, start. My advice to present students would be to finish what you start. It doesn’t matter how long it takes how many changes you’ve made, it doesn’t matter how many directions you’ve gone, as long as you finish what you start, that is important. My advice to alumni would be to push forward, women to lean in, and everyone should help pull up at least one person.
Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Something that was a pivotal point in my career was being selected for the first ever Ailes Apprentice program and that definitely helped keep and put me on the path to making a tape while I was working behind the scenes in New York.
It’s essentially an apprentice program that pairs you up with a mentor. It’s pretty much a menotorship at the pgroam. At the time it was the flagship one. It was the first ever.
This year it’s celebrating its 10 year anniversary.
Major: Sociology with a Concentration in Crime and Deviance; May 2014
Founding Date: January 13, 1913; Charter Date: April 12, 1975
Why did you become a member of your organization?
I joined my organization to make a contribution on a larger scale. Each organization in the Divine Nine has the same overarching tenants such as sisterhood/brotherhood, scholarship and service. But when I see Delta, I see so much more. I see women making a political impact since the Woman’s Suffrage March in 1913. I see a global impact through the new school in Haiti and the Mary Help of the Sick Mission hospital. I see woman mentoring young girls to become strong women through Delta Academy and Delta GEMS. I see a sea of Red in DC and you’ve never had a conversation with someone but when you do, the connection is so powerful because of the letters you both wear across your chest. From the outside looking in, I knew that there was no other organization that compared to Delta. From the inside looking out, I hope to embody the characteristics of my beloved sorority and be that beacon of light for others to follow.
What are some of Delta Sigma Theta’s key initiatives and programs?
National- Financial Fortitude, Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy, EMBODI, Healthy Lifestyle, Delta Days in the Nations Capitol
Local- Mix and Minge with Black faculty and students, Bras for a Cause, Club Empo, D.I.V.A Day, Community Baby Shower
What can we expect to see from your show at Overton?
You can expect to see a winning show! Sorors from the Iota Alpha Chapter at James Madison University are stepping this year. I can promise that they are extremely talented and the show will not disappoint!
Who do you think you will win?
Delta Sigma Theta and Phi Beta Sigma
The theme for this year’s reunion is “Sharing Our Story: Past, Present, Future”. If you could say anything to past members, to present members, and future members what would you say?
I would say thank you. Each woman who has joined the ranks of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has made our ranks stronger. We owe our gratification to those before us who paved the way, to those who helped us to see the light of Delta and help us to be better Deltas everyday, and to those who will become Deltas and keep our sisterhood alive.
What impact do you think the NPHC has on the black community and the university as a whole? Why is the organization still relevant and important in 2014?
We are a growing presence on Virginia Tech’s campus. In the Black Community we are held to high expectations because of the letters we wear. We are expected to host programs and events to uplift the community and I believe we do this well. However, we are working on not limiting our outreach to the Black community, but to the Virginia Tech community as a whole. One of our immediate goals is to bridge the gap between the our council and the IFC, PHC, and MGC councils.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
We look forward to reuniting with our chapter and other alumni who come back this weekend!
Mu Alpha Through the Years
1982
2013
Mu Alpha at Back to School Mixer, Fall 2013.
Stroll off Competition
Mu Alpha members Jessica Clanton and Desiree Turner pack meals for the Feeding the Homeless event.
The NPHC will be hosting a Relay for Life event, Relay for Relay, on Saturday March 22nd from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Holtzman Alumni Lawn. Registration is only $5. All proceeds from relay events go to Relay for Life. Student and Alumni will be participating! To register log on here:http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?organ_val=21575&%3Bschedule=list
To send in Mu Alpha pictures taken during your years at Tech email vtbar2014@gmail.com
Theta Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Theta Phi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Virginia Tech.
President: Chelsea Claytor
Major/Prospective Graduation Date: Political Science & Real Estate – Spring 2015
Founding Date: Founded January 15, 1908 – Chartered May 4, 1974
Why did you become a member of your organization?
I chose to become a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. because I wanted a strong sisterhood with women who share the same values and beliefs that I do. I also looked up to many women who were already apart of this organization. I hoped to be as successful as them and joining AKA seemed to be a step in the right direction.
What are some of Alpha Kappa Alpha’s key initiatives and programs?
Our initiatives include Emerging Young Leaders, Asthma Prevention and Management, Environmental Stewardship & Sustainability, Global Poverty, Economic Security, Social Justice & Human Rights, and Internal Leadership Training for External Service. We are partnered with many organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, American Diabetes Foundation, American Heart Association, Heifer International, American Kidney Fund, and the American Cancer Society.
The theme for this year’s reunion is “Sharing Our Story: Past, Present, Future”. If you could say something to past members, to present members, and future members what would you say?
Keep our founders’ dreams alive. Often times we lose sight of why we joined once we’ve been a member for a while. It is important that we always uphold the values of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and maintain a positive image in our community. Along with that, to our future members I would like to reinforce the fact that joining this organization means that you are a member for life. The work begin once you join and doesn’t stop when you graduate.
What events are you looking forward to attending the most during Black Alumni Reunion weekend?
I will be attending the step show, the after party, and Alpha Ball. On Saturday, we will be having a Sorors Only Luncheon to celebrate our 40th year on Virginia Tech’s campus. I am most looking forward to this event because so many of our alumni are coming back and I’m really excited to see them!
What impact do you think the NPHC has on the black community and the university as a whole? Why is the organization still relevant and important in 2014?
I think the NPHC provides a source of entertainment to the black community since we always host step shows and stroll-offs. We also provide a wide range of information through our programs, and opportunities for others to participate in service and philanthropic events. We are still relevant because we uphold our university’s motto of “Ut Prosim” by continuously serving our community. Even over 100 years after being founded, we are still a prominent aspect of African American life because our traditions remain intact and we are widely respected because of that.
For a further look at the NPHC tradition of stepping , be sure to check out the Overton R. Johnson Stepshow on Friday, March 21st at 7 PM in Burruss Hall.
Theta Phi through the Years:
1975:
Alpha Kappa Alpha, 1975. Standing (left to right): Paula Martin, Karen Francois, Delores Jones; Seated: Zoe Shaw, Avie Winston, Sandra Johnson. Credit. Virginia Tech Archives.
1981:
Alpha Kappa Alpha, 1981. Front Row: H. Baynham, S. Brickhouse, F. Jackson, V. Turner, P. Poindexter, S. Terrell, A. James. Credit: Virginia Tech Archives
2008
(l to r) Ryan Sedgwick, Tiana S. McWhite, Rianka Dorsainvil, Ashlynn Wright, Cefion Miller and Shelmeshia Terry.Alpha Kappa Alpha 2008. Britney Corbett. Lauren Purdie. Alana Mallory. Bianca Baker. Veronica Bonilla. Brittney Davis.
The NPHC will be hosting a Relay for Life event, Relay for Relay, on Saturday March 22nd from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Holtzman Alumni Lawn. Registration is only $5. All proceeds from relay events go to Relay for Life. Student and Alumni will be participating! To register log on here:http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?organ_val=21575&%3Bschedule=list
Before enrolling at Virginia Tech, Dr. James Watkins was initially going to be an Aggie at North Carolina A & T on a full scholarship. His major would have been Electrical Engineering, making his Hokie journey obsolete. After also receiving full scholarships from Duke, Cornell, and Howard University, he almost didn’t make it to Blacksburg.
A dedicated high school counselor at Washington Carver High school in Hampton, VA, encouraged him to enroll at Virginia Tech, where he also received a full scholarship. This paid off. Dr. Watkins became one of the first black graduates of Virginia Tech and was a founder of the fraternity Groove Phi Groove, the first black organization on Virginia Tech’s campus. As an undergraduate, Dr. Watkins became a trailblazer making a huge impact on campus and history.
Dr. Watkins graduated from Virginia Tech in 1971, and MCVA in 1975. He is now an accomplished dentist in Hampton, VA and in 1992 he became the first President of the Virginia Dental Board.
At the 2014 Black Alumni Reunion, Dr. Watkins will be on the panel for the event “Lived Experiences During Campus Integration”, where he will discuss his experience as one of the first black students to attend Virginia Tech. This event will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act.
I spoke with Dr. Watkins about his journey as a Hokie and how he hopes Virginia Tech evolves in the next 50 years.
What year did you graduate from Virginia Tech and what is your current profession?
I graduated from Virginia Tech in 1971. I entered Medical College of Virginia Dental School at VCU in Richmond in 1971 and finished in 1975. I’m currently a general practice dentist in Hampton, VA.
Myron Rimm and James Watkins at Virginia Tech graduation in 1971.
You were one of the first black students to graduate from Virginia Tech. What inspired you to attend the university? Did you realize the impact you would have?
I had no idea about the impact, because I wound up attending, based on the influence of a guidance counselor I had. She was adamant about some of the honors students that year going from high school. I went to an all black high school in Hampton, VA, George Washington Carver high school. It was all black at that time. And she was interested in having some of her honor roll students enroll at the majority schools at that time. I had always been adamant about North Carolina A & T and I figured if I ever had a chance to go anywhere I would go to North Carolina A & T. With her influence I ended up applying to some other schools, and Virginia Tech just happened to be one of the other schools.
My applications went to North Carolina A & T, Howard University, Virginia Tech, Duke, and Cornell University. I actually got accepted to all of them. I had full scholarships to all of them, so then the question became which one I was going to choose. Once again, based on her influence more than anything I chose Tech. My parents were very happy for me to attend. Neither one of my parents finished high school, and I was the oldest of six kids so that would be groundbreaking in so many ways for my family. So it was a matter of making a choice. And being accepted into North Carolina A & T where I always wanted to go was the biggest challenge for me. Here I was having a full scholarship and so now what?
After it was all said and done, my guidance counselor pretty much convinced me. At that time I was interested in going into Electrical Engineering that was my first choice as a major. Of course Tech has a strong program; Duke has a strong program, and North Carolina A & T that was another reason why I was considering A & T. However, Mrs. Crittendon, the guidance counselors name was Cora Crittendon, who ended up being one of our delegates to the Virginia Assembly after she retired from education, helped me narrow it down to Duke or Virginia Tech, and I ended up choosing Virginia Tech.
That was quite a selection of schools.
Cornell was a hard one to turn down because it cost more. At that time, that scholarship was the highest money wise.
At Virginia Tech, 1967 which was my first year, the tuition, room, and board was $900. So I mean if you can put that in perspective. All of the African American students at the time had the Rockefeller Scholarship which was $1,000. We were on a quarter system so every time we registered each quarter they gave us a $30, so it was like they were paying us to go to school.
Did your counselor say you should go to a school where you would be a minority so you could be a pioneer?
It was just a matter of being able to show that students from minority schools, or schools of color, especially ones that were all black were able to make it in predominantly white schools. I think that was the emphasis that she was trying to make.
As an 18 year old it influenced me to think that she had the confidence in me that I didn’t even have in myself. I was raised in North Carolina in a town about twenty miles from Greensboro so even though we moved here when I was three, I still had family there I visited there but just never went to the campus of A & T.
What was it like coming from Newport News to Virginia Tech?
A long ride. The interstate wasn’t 64; it was riding 460 through a lot of little towns. A rather long trip. Through a lot of back roads and small towns that I’m glad you don’t have to go through right now. The biggest thing, here I was coming from an environment that was all black. I have to say my biggest fear was when I got there I would have a white roommate. How I would handle that and what it was going to be like. So I got to campus, and for me back then it was still very large. I think the population was 10,000 my freshman year. It was rather large compared to anything I had been at and it was quite intimidating. However when I walked in the room I found out I had a black roommate. I was like ok. It made me feel more comfortable.
When I got to the campus I found out there was so few us. I guess I never thought about it, because I hadn’t visited. I thought if I was going someone was coming from somewhere else. It wasn’t like Virginia was 50% African American, thought it would be percentage of the state.
Were you able to count how many?
At the time they said there were 20. They did have a few graduate students and we counted 10 that were freshmen. But there were five of us on the same floor, one other guy in a whole different hall. And we found out after the fact that the only reason he wound up having a white roommate and he was on a different floor, you had to send in a picture, he didn’t. They must have thought he was white.
We really didn’t meet him until later on. Then of course there were some females who were already there in 66. There were two that came in with us.
Dr. Watkins with Jackie Dandridge in 1971. Jackie is the first black woman to be selected to Virginia Tech’s homecoming court.
It seems to me you formed a tight knit community?
We knew everybody. We were all kind of different majors which meant that we would be in classes where we were sometimes the only one. General classes you know there would be 200 people in them and you would be the only one.
My roommate was there and five of us were there. Going into the meal hall and everything like that usually we. I have to say, we went in if you sat a table even if there was somebody there they would get up and move. It would seem like we had a table that only the blacks sat at, but only because no one would sit with us.
Either people would hurriedly leave or we would sit at a table that was all black. That was just part of dealing with the stuff back then. It didn’t bother us after a while. Quite frankly all of us on that floor had made a pact that after we had been there a few weeks we weren’t going to stay.
Wow. So you made a pact to transfer?
Yeah we were all going to leave. The five of us on that floor we said that is not what we thought. Between the confederate flag and Dixie, it was like we didn’t need this. To feel like you are making that transition from high school to college which was enough in itself. We all thought that was what we were going to do.
What made you stay?
Well. The interesting thing was we started to develop a little bit of camaraderie with ourselves. We started to have some contacts through Stan Harris who graduated in 68. He was a senior my freshman year. He was one of the engineering students that had at that time a program with Virginia State where they went for two years to Virginia State and two years to finish Tech and they got their degree from Tech. So he contacted Virginia State and that enabled us to start Groove Phi Groove Social fellowship which was a non Greek fraternity. So the few of us that were there started Groove Phi Groove and developed this camaraderie that made us feel I guess like something that you wanted to be a part of. It made us want to come back. Why not, we had gotten something started that got to be very popular when it came to entertainment for the minorities on campus.
Groove Phi Groove fraternity in 1969. Virginia Tech’s first black organization on campus. First Row: B. Rimm, S. Pyles, C. Adams, C. Beane, T. Dillard Second Row: S. Lee, J. Watkins, L. Trower, L. Beale, G. Spurlock, B. Shelton, G. BrooksDr. Watkins watches Groove Phi Groove step in the “Dirty Dozen & a Half” show at Virginia Tech.
For those who don’t know more about Groove Phi Groove, as a founding member on Virginia Tech’s campus can you explain the organization?
It is a social fraternity that is non Greek. A male fraternity. It had just started itself in 1962. So at that time it was relatively recent I mean we were there, we started in 67. It only started at 62 in Morgan State. It was at most of the HBCU’s at that time. The one at Virginia State was receptive to have us come down on the weekends and pledge. So six of us went down and pledged and when we pledged we came back. This all happened in the Spring of 68. Three of us were in the Corp and three of us were civilians. The six of us and two initial pledges, (8 of us) pushed it to other people there. When we came back in the fall, there were twice as many African Americans who came in then. Three times as many people. Believe it or not we began to attract a large enough contingent to where you could have a party. It was some pretty good parties.
Groove picnic in 1971 at the fraternity house on Jackson Street.
We rented an apartment in Drapers Meadows which was considered a Groove apartment. We had a house on Jackson Street and started to have parties on weekends. A couple of members actually stayed in the house. It got to be a really popular organization.
When Dick Gregory came to speak, he came to the groove house. We had a black wall with a white marking pen and we would have people sign it. All of the Groove brothers would sign their name but we would have the celebrities sign it.
Muhammad Ali came to the house. Everyone signed that wall. And it was kind of popular. It was the room where the dance floor was. Back then we used those strobe lights, with that black wall it was kind of a very interesting sight to see. But we had all their signatures, the celebrities and it was a focal point for the group.
Jim Watkins, Muhammad Ali, and Charlie Lipscomb (Tech’s first Black scholarship basketball recruit & a Groove brother), at the Groove Phi Groove house in 1970. This was during the time Ali was stripped of his title. He stopped by the Groove house after speaking on Virginia Tech’s campus.
You mentioned the night Muhammad Ali came. You said he spoke to the group until about 2 am?
He actually, when you saw the picture with him on the telephone, he was calling the airport to change his flight. Because he was supposed to have left that evening at 11 but he stayed and talked to us until 2 am. So he was changing his flight on that telephone call. And what happened was after he spoke that was back at the time he was stripped of his title because he wouldn’t go to the Vietnam War. He couldn’t fight anymore, so he went on college tours giving speeches. I don’t know what group got him on campus to come speak but after he spoke, and everybody went on stage he was talking to people and these other white fraternities were talking to him trying to convince him to come to their parties they were having. Just three of us, the Groove brothers went right up there, everybody spoke, and he just looked like he couldn’t wait to speak to us. And when he spoke to us we were like we have this house in town, and we would like to have a get together. We weren’t even having a party that night because we were going to hear him.
But he came over and we got some brothers to come over to the house and he sat in the chair in the house and we all sat on the floor listening to him talk about the Muslim faith and different things that has happened to him over the years and he kept talking and he just kept talking answering questions. Next thing you know his body guard said we have this 11 o clock flight and he said no I want to continue to talk. So he went to the phone we took him, and he called airlines and changed flights. He got a hotel room stayed until 2 in the morning I gained more respect for that many from anything he’s ever done he could never do wrong after that as far as I’m concern. There were a lot of things he could have done that night instead of talk to us.
He was the speaker in Burruss Hall. He was the guest speaker. He actually had a full house there. He just talked about different things; I can’t remember the topics, except him being stripped of his title. He had given up his career by not going to war. It was a big thing.
Would you say that night was one of your most memorable moments at Virginia Tech?
I would definitely say that. It was the formation of Groove Phi Groove. I would say that a lot of things when celebrities came because even when Dick Gregory came he had a different concept to talk about things. Godfrey Cambridge was kind of funny we actually had a party when he came there.
Just realizing that it was kind of strange. We got there. Here we were on this predominantly white campus. The first homecoming dance the first band they had was Sam and Dave. That was a popular soul group in the 60s and 70s. Later on that year they had the Temptations. I don’t even know if we could have been at an HBCU and seen these groups. They were groups that were obviously paid to come but it was just an interesting in that respect. The next day reality sets in and you go into Cassell Colliseum and you see the confederate flag hanging and they played Dixie. So that was almost like that was the fight song. It was frustrating for us.
Most of the students there considered ourselves jocks, a lot of us were valedictorians and salutatorians, athletes, so we wanted to go to the sporting events, but sometimes it was difficult to be there when we had a game. Of course the team ran out with the confederate flag and Dixie was the fight song. So it was tough. It was no surprise, the only black athlete came in with me Jerry Gaines, he ran track. So there was no black basketball player, no black football player or anything like that. Of course none of that we knew when we came. But it was 1967, that was the reality of when we came. Charlie Lipscomb came on the basketball team a year and a half later. And John Dobbins. So all of that was while we were there. So we sort of watched this transition. But it was a tough transition because in one respect, because you wouldn’t have them, and then how come they didn’t understand there weren’t top athletes with Dixie playing. I guess it took a little time and change to get that to go away. I was very happy to see it end while I was there.
People ask me about my class ring. My class ring from 71 was the last class ring that had the confederate flag on it. I was debating because when the time came when they decided they were going to take the confederate flag off the ring the decision was made, well early 70, not in time enough for the 71 ring. But that was a memorable moment for me too. The reason I got the ring was to remind me the amount of impact it had. It was a symbol for me to know that transition came for a time when I was there too. The impact of having a bunch of Northern students there, it wasn’t just the African American students pushing for it, of course we were at the forefront, but they didn’t want the confederate flag on their rings. That made an impact for the Michael Vicks and those that came after that. There would be no way to get those athletes if it were still like that.
Dr. Watkins’ 1971 Virginia Tech class ring.
If you look at the history page and the 71 class if you count the numbers I would be the first 25 or 30. In my mind there is a separation between, the two year Tech students. They went to another school for two years, there was really the 7 of us that started that actually went the whole four years. Obviously not back with the Charlie Yates but still with the transitioin with the first 25. I didn’t think about it at first.
Just to think it took until 71 to graduate 25 blacks. At MCV Dental School I was only the 4th black to graduate from there and it was 75. When I got there as a freshman they only had three black people graduate before me.
Did your experience at Virginia Tech help you?
Oh definitely. No doubt about that. I think that really might have had the biggest impact of me having a Tech degree and dealing with MCV all the way around. It was still different though because the dental school class had 100 in each class. They brought two in that year. But that meant, there were no upperclassmen minority students who could mentor us. We wound up being the mentors to those who came after us. Because it seemed like the school became committed to bringing in two blacks a year after us. It was a sign of the times. What can I say?
I am glad you persevered because you and your classmates helped inspire other Virginia Tech students and minorities from underrepresented backgrounds attend in that environment.
Why are you attending the Black Alumni Reunion?
Groove Phi Groove was still on Tech’s campus through the 80s I want to say until the early 90s. I always came back for the pledge line and the parties. I was always up there with the pledges. Everyone was a Groove for the most part through those years. I know they brought the Greeks on there but quite a few people were Grooves. When Calvin Jamison started working in admissions, I talked to him about making contacts down here. He started talking about the first reunion, and one of the things he was trying to do, the first speaker for the first black alumni reunion was Charlie Yates. We were trying to make an impact and the juices going to have something. The first reunion Dr. Yates was the speaker. The second reunion I was the speaker. The first year was 87 and in 89 I was the speaker, around that time.
The ones they have had since then have been initiated by alumni like CJ, and we just maintained contact, and whenever something was happening there is this contingent. I think I have about 80 names on my mailing list, through contacts when I was there or right after them. Whenever something was going on I was letting them know, and he was letting me know. So whenever we had a reunion we were always in touch with them.
I enjoyed those periods of camaraderie that we didn’t have. We were all over the country, I was happy to see them and happy to see them in the environment of Virginia Tech. I like to see the numbers getting bigger too. I always try not to let my class not be the oldest class. I would like to get somebody there so I wouldn’t be the oldest class there. But it’s been very interesting. I’ve enjoyed it. I will continue to enjoy it.
Have you been to every reunion?
I have been to every one. Every one. Yes.
This reunion you are on the panel for the event “Lived Experiences During Campus Integration.” What should attendees expect?
Hopefully people understand there has been a transitional change in a lot of ways fro m what it used to be and what it is now. If they are interested in seeing what it was what like then and how it is now that’s what they would expect to hear.
Some of the lived experiences may not be the most pleasant experiences, but it helps build you a certain way. It builds your character. In a certain way. That makes you still feel like there’s an attachment. I feel like I still have an attachment to Tech. I always will. That’s one of the reasons we wound up starting the Groove Phi Groove Scholarship. Groove Phi Groove as you know isn’t on campus now, I would think I could work on it again. The Groove scholarship was established at the 1999 reunion. It is now endowed. It will be there forever.
The panel Lived Experiences is a part of Virginia Tech’s commemoration of the Civil Rights Act 50th anniversary. How far do you think VT has come? And what do you hope happens in next 50 years?
The same thing I’ve hoped for the last 40 years. That they would increase their African American numbers. That’s always what I wanted to see an increase in numbers. Somehow I just keep thinking this will all work out for the better and we will see those numbers improve. It’s unfortunate when you look at the football team and the basketball team, that are very popular on the team. That is not a reality of the campus. People are very comfortable with the athletics but they don’t think about the student population.
I don’t know what it’s going to take. I just want to be there and put in my two cents, even if it’s only one cent. I hope it clicks and everything falls into place.
Do you think events like the Black Alumni Reunion will help bring more black students?
I think it does but I think it’s not maximized. Because it seems like there is not enough student involvement. I kind of go back to 2003 when they celebrated the 50th anniversary of the first black student Irving Peddrew being admitted. They had a ceremony under a tent by the dorm. It was a black alumni event too. The black alumni were there and Dr. Yates was there. And I just happened to glance under the tent and there were black students just walking by and it was almost like they were oblivious to what was going on. If nothing else it seems like that would have been an opportunity to say in whatever way they could, this is an event where we would have been outnumbered by active students and it wasn’t.
The first reunions were just the alumni. Later the students became more involved on the student level they would want to be involved on the alumni. I realize that it is one weekend and they are getting ready to end the year and people have other things to do. I don’t expect 100 percent. It seems like there would be more student involvement. To realize there are alumni out there who made a commitment to the school. It works for everybody.
Your statement to students, is for them to come out?
Yes. Just for them to see that something goes on that alumni are interested in coming back to and sharing with whatever with the students that are there.
The theme for this year is Sharing Our Story: Past, Present, Future. What would you say to past students, present students, and future students?
I would say always be a Hokie. That would encompass what they have done what they plan to do and what they intend to do. Just keep in mind that there are over 6,000 African American alumni and that is still a small number compared to the amount of years that Tech has been around. But come back and share. Your experience or any experience is just as important as mine in 67 and 71, and any graduate that is set to come out 2014. Everyone sees things differently. Whatever it is, just know once you get that degree even if you didn’t graduate, you’ve been there you can call it home. Just make that attachment. There is reason to come back and there is hope for the school still. To get the percentage of black students up. Because that is one thing that I would love to see.
I enjoy the camaraderie, there is always a situation where people come back from my time frame and it’s a good time to get together to see the changes.
Dr. Watkins and Jerry Gaines receive Influential Alumni Awards at the 2010 Virginia Tech Black Alumni Reunion.
Interview and transcription by: Juanisha Brooks c/o 2008
The panel “Lived Experiences, Campus Integration at Virginia Tech” will be held, on Friday March 21, 2014 at the National Capital Room in North End Zone Center. It will be broadcast simultaneously in the Squires Center Break Zone and the Multicultural Center. There will also be an online webinar for those viewing offsite.
My senior year in high school in Yorktown, VA I had no clue where I wanted to attend college and crunch time was quickly approaching. My high school invited several representatives to come speak to graduating seniors about their colleges. I was under the impression that Virginia Tech was predominantly an Engineering school, and I knew I wanted to become a physician. Thus, I had already written them off in my mind. When the representative came from Virginia Tech, I was astonished to find out that they offered MUCH more than engineering degrees. I was also amazed at the amenities they offered. When I went for a visit, the beautiful campus, the friendly people, and the school spirit won me over. I knew I wanted to be a Hokie!
I have never regretted that decision. My time spent at Virginia Tech was truly the time of my life! I am so thankful for the excellent education I received at Virginia Tech and the instructors, advisors, and friends who supported me along the way. I made everlasting friendships while obtaining degree in Bachelors of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry. After undergrad, I went on to attend Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine from 2007-2011 and commissioned in the United States Navy as a Medical Officer during that time. I completed an internship in Internal Medicine at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in 2012. Currently, I am at the end of a 2-year tour on the USS Fort McHenry, a Naval war ship based in Virginia Beach, VA, serving as the ship’s doctor.
I am very excited to attend Virginia Tech Black Alumni Reunion 2014. I am most looking forward to fellowship with the legacy of Black students, both current and former, at the Step show, German club,Alumni Brunch, and the Relay for life. I look forward to hearing the stories of current students and other Black Alumni because I believe that everyone’s story can be a testimony that inspires others. In addition, I believe it is important to show gratitude and to give back to the people, organizations, and institutions that helped you succeed. Black Alumni Reunion is one way for me to show gratitude to my alma mater.
I look forward to seeing both old and new friends this year at Black Alumni Reunion 2014! HOKIE HI!
Celeste with her Delta Sigma Theta sorority sisters. Mu Alpha, Spring 2007Celeste with her sister Adina Young. Adina is also a Virginia Tech grad, class of 2007.
To register for the Black Alumni Reunion (March 20-23) and for the full schedule of events log on to: www.diversity.vt.edu/alumni/bar
When my Freshman class entered VA Tech, we were the largest black class in the university’s history thanks to the recruiting efforts of Dr. Calvin Jamison and Glenn Valentine. We were going to conquer the world and had NO idea what we were in for as we crossed the Drill Field for the first time. CJ, Glen and Barbara Pendergrass nurtured and guided us through our years there.
I consider being a graduate of VA Tech to be one of my greatest accomplishments. People tell me that there is something special about the connection that the students and alumni have. I look forward to attending the reunion every time it is held because it gives me a chance to reconnect with some of my classmates and to get to know fellow alum; both on whose shoulders I stand and those who stand on mine.
There is nothing like walking on campus and reliving and sharing memories with others, not to mention enjoying the growth of our beautiful campus. I can’t wait to connect with some of the current students to get their prospective on their collegiate experience.
I live my life based on our motto “Ut Prosim.” I am so proud to be a member of the Hokie Nation. Hokie for life!
Deseria Creighton Barney ’87 Communications
Deseria with her roommate and friend at Virginia Tech in the 80’s.Deseria and Hokie Bird at the 2012 Black Alumni Reunion.Deseria and husband at Black Alumni Reunion 07.
Deseria will be a facilitator at the Alumni and Student Speed Networking event which will take place Saturday March 22nd, from 1 to 3 pm at the Inn at Virginia Tech.
Virginia Tech was never originally on my radar as a university to attend for my undergraduate education. My parents actually added VT to my list of schools, and I swore I would not attend. When my acceptance letters came in, my mother told me, “you’ve done everything that each school has required of you—you’ve jumped through all of their hoops. Now it’s time to see what the university can do for you and how much they want you to be a part of their community,” and I kept that in the back of my mind.
My first visit to VT was by an invitation to attend Gateway, and I find it funny now, that on the bus ride there I remember being scared that I would actually like it (making me have to make a serious decision between VT and another institution I really wanted to attend). I was very concerned about what life was like for underrepresented students being that the institution was predominately white and located in a very rural area. Fortunately for me, I ran into a former graduate of my high school that was willing to be very candid with me about what the day-to-day would look like—but also explained the academic benefits of me attending VT and the huge family network I would be a part of if I decided to become a Hokie.
The university showed itself approved, and among other things, offered me an awesome financial package. They offered majors and programs in each of my interest areas, and I was also drawn to the fact that the university was very service-oriented. The students seemed like they were very much about their academic life, but also knew how to have fun and having that work-life balance was very important to me. After returning home from Gateway, I started noticing Hokies everywhere–grocery stores, restaurants, driving on the highway–and it served as a sign of confirmation for me.
Life after undergrad….
I am now a faculty member at Virginia Tech. I serve as Intergroup Dialogue Coordinator in the Office of Multicultural Programs & Services. As IGD Coordinator, I am piloting the intergroup dialogue program, which is being instituted as a way to better prepare all VT students to become global citizens and to enhance campus climate. The program is also designed to work in accord with the diversity initiatives in the institution’s six-year strategic plan. Intergroup dialogue, itself, is a program centered on a social justice topic that allows students from different social identity groups to explore identities, biases, and the impact of both on their interpersonal interactions. I’m very excited that this program is being implemented and supported at Virginia Tech.
I’m honored to serve in a department that was one of the first departments to reach out and play a part in my transition to student life on the campus. In addition, serving the university as a faculty member is yet another way that I am able to give back to all students in the Hokie community, but it allows me to contribute in a meaningful way to the campus experience for underrepresented students as well.
Why I’m attending the Black Alumni Reunion…….
I am attending the reunion to connect and reconnect with others. I had the privilege of attending the last two Black Alumni Reunions and was able to meet so many older Black alumni and hear their stories of life on campus. Having that opportunity to connect with them and hear their stories has been a very memorable one for me. Meeting and connecting with one of my mentors, Deseria Creighton-Barney, has a lot of to do with that experience. I am looking forward to reconnecting with her and also many of my classmates and people who, over the years, have become my extended family. I hoping to see more of them at this reunion.
What I’m looking forward to the most about the reunion….
Overall, I am looking forward to lots of fun and lots of laughter. With regards to events, I’m really looking forward to the “Lived Experiences during Campus Integration” Panel and Webinar and the semi-formal on Saturday night. I am especially looking forward to the spiritual celebration on Sunday as that is a time when former and current members of the Enlightened Gospel Choir are able reconnect and worship together again. That portion of the weekend means a lot to me as EGC was big part of my campus life and was an avenue where I built many meaningful relationships.
So besides the fact that I am a Virginia Tech Alumni (very, very recent!), I am also very much Black! With those two under my belt, I think I meet the requirements, not that we are excluding anyone else! Furthermore, I have an obligation to the community. I just finished up my undergraduate years this December, and when I made my exit, the black community was on the upward climb. So being active in any VT Black events is something I will be in support of from now until the end of time or until the time Jim Crow climbs up from hell and excludes Blacks from Tech again. Let’s all hope that doesn’t happen.
Now that the heavy-hearted sentiments are out of the way; March 20-23 is going to be the most live weekend that Spring 14 will see! With Overton step show (Roo to the Bruhz) and after party, the SMACK art show, visiting artist Kehinde Wiley’s exhibit in the Moss Center for the Arts, plenty of food, and the most Black folks tech will have seen at one time since last years BAR, I think it will make for a rather memorable weekend!
But really, if we are to excel as a collective we have form that bond with our bridge builders! So as a fresh-off-the-yard alumni I challenge the undergrads to be out… or OWT in full effect come March 20! Plus the Eta Lambda Bruhz will be OWT, and who doesn’t love that.!
Yours tROOly,
Duston Scarborough
@RoneMusik
@Troo_Story
Credit: Photo courtesy of silasphotography.net
Duston performing spoken word during an Expressions open mic at Virginia Tech.
March is Women’s History Month and to celebrate Virginia Tech history we are profiling United States Air Force Captain, Christina Royal.
In 2006 Royal made history as the first black woman to lead the Virginia Tech Corp of Cadets after being selected to the position of Regimental Commander. The Virginia Tech Corp of Cadets is the military component of students at Virginia Tech. Founded in 1872, it is one of just two military corps within a public university. To put this mighty feat in perspective, in the Corps 142 year history Royal remains the only black woman to lead and she is only the fourth woman to hold the esteemed position since the Corp began admitting women in 1973.
Royal was named Undergraduate Student Leader of the Year her senior year for her service as Regimental Commander. Upon graduation Royal became an Air Force officer where she continues to demonstrate excellence while embodying the Virginia Tech motto Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).
In 2008 she was selected as a Hokie Hero, by the Virginia Tech Corp of Cadets after she deployed to Baghdad Iraq.
Royal not only cemented a legacy in Virginia Tech history through the Corp of Cadets, she is a part of a Hokie family legacy as well. Her brother Eddie Royal is a 2008 graduate of Virginia Tech and is currently a wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers.
Christina Royal is now a Captain in the U.S. Air Force and based at the Pentagon. She was recently nominated as the Company Grade Officer (CGO) of the quarter at the Headquarters Air Force (HAF) level.
Capt. Royal receives the Company Grade Officer (CGO) of the quarter award for the United States Air Force
I had the opportunity to speak with Royal further about her background at Virginia Tech and why she is attending the Black Alumni Reunion.
What year did you attend Virginia Tech, and what was your major?
I attended Virginia Tech from 2002 to 2006, graduating with a degree in Sociology, and minors in Political Science & Leadership.
Describe your current background and how Virginia Tech played a role in you reaching this position?
Upon graduating from Virginia Tech in 2006, I commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant into the United States Air Force, and currently hold the rank of Captain. Virginia Tech played an enormous role in reaching my current position, as Air Force ROTC Detachment 875 was my commissioning source.
At Virginia Tech you made history as the first black female to lead the Corp of Cadets? Can you tell me about this experience and how you made it to this position?
Leading the Cadet Corps, period, was an experience unlike any other. And making it to this position, as not only a female, but as a black female, was nothing short of a blessing. In my case, my blessing came by way of hard work meeting opportunity. Moreover, there were a select few who played major roles in my success by believing in me and affording me the opportunity to succeed. They reached back, and mentored me during my time at Virginia Tech. And to them, I am forever thankful! It’s reassuring to know that you can succeed regardless of regardless of your race, religion, or creed.
Your brother, Eddie Royal, attended Virginia Tech as well, what did it mean for him to attend and were you an influence in him attending?
Family is huge to us. So, having Eddie, who is my baby brother despite what many think (smile), there with me two of my four years on campus was a dream come true. It meant the world to me. And I’m sure my being there encouraged him to join the “Hokie family”. Being together again greatly enhanced that home away from home feel you inherently get by way of being on campus at Virginia Tech, as well as out and about inthe community.
Capt. Royal and brother Eddie Royal at Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium.Eddie is a wide receiver for the San Diego Chargers. He played for the Hokie Football team from 2004-2008 and was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2008 NFL.
What legacy do you think the Royals left on the Hokie community?
I can only pray that we left a positive legacy. And to the younger generation, always know that regardless of where you come from (a single parent home in our case) you can achieve the impossible, and make a positive difference in the process.
Who influenced you the most as an undergraduate at Virginia tech? Has a black alumni helped you?
There were so many, but two people in particular who influenced me the most, the two people I actually alluded to earlier, were Major General Jerry Allen (former Commandant of Cadets), and George Delong, (now a Captain in the Air Force).
Cheryl Butler McDonald was one of the first women in the Corp of Cadets and the first black woman. Have you had the chance to meet her yet?
Although I never met her in person I know that it was people like her who paved the way for future generations such as myself to come along and do the things that I did. I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish the things that I did without her.
Why are you attending the Black Alumni Reunion?
I am attending the Black Alumni Reunion to meet and network with other influential black leaders in our community, who just so happen to have also graduated from the finest institution of higher learning in Virginia.
Why should an alumni attend the reunion?
Virginia Tech is our Alma Mater, what better reason is there than that? There is a commonality amongst us that drew us all there, which is a bond we will always share. In some way, we’ve all left our own legacy. This will be a great opportunity to come back and see old faces, and even meet new ones. Networking is huge. You can never have a network that’s too large.
If someone is on the fence about attending, why do you think they should come to Blacksburg?
To this day, I encourage everyone I know to attend Virginia Tech. Not only is it an academically sounds university; Virginia Tech offers something for just about everyone. So, whether you’re interested in a particular degree path, sports, or even the military, Virginia Tech is the way to go. Go HOKIES!
What are you looking forward to the most about the reunion?
I’m looking forward to being back on campus, and seeing the familiar faces I fondly call my Hokie Family!
Capt. Christina Royal will be the Emcee for this years Influential Alumni Awards Brunch taking place Saturday, March 22nd from 9:30 am to 12:30 p.m in Owens Hall.
Lights. Cameras. Step! The Overton R. Johnson Step Show is back, March 21, 2014! A staple event during the Virginia Tech Black Alumni Reunion, this event is held by the NPHC and named in honor of the first black faculty member at Virginia Tech. The Step Show showcases the tradition of stepping while celebrating the life of Overton R. Johnson . Hundreds of alumni, faculty, and current students come together to witness this epic evening of culture, entertainment, and competition. This event isn’t just about competition and finding out who the best steppers on the yard are. Two $500 scholarships are awarded to students who are not members of the NPHC organizations involved in the Step Show.
Greeks come represent your organization and cheer them on. Alumni this is your chance to be entertained, see who still has it and who the new leaders are! You don’t want to miss out on this event.The Step Show will be held at Burruss Hall on the campus of Virginia Tech. The cost for admission is $10 for Non Greeks and $8 for Greeks. Event starts at 7:00 pm.
vtblackalumnireunion.wordpress.com 