ArticleS
Where storytelling transcends boundaries and voices find their platform.
Immerse yourself in a collection of articles that showcase my storytelling skills, aimed at igniting community voices, representing the underrepresented, and covering campus news from unique and thought-provoking angles.
Explore narratives that challenge the status quo, celebrate cultural diversity, and inspire action. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, I strive to create engaging content that resonates with readers and fosters a deeper understanding of the world around us.
Faith, Fashion, and Finding Purpose: Jerry Lorenzo’s FAMU Homecoming
“Florida A&M University’s Black History Month celebration was marked by a profound conversation between alum and Fear of God founder Jerry Lorenzo and Dr. Shawnta Friday-Stroud, Dean of FAMU’s School of Business and Industry and Lorenzo’s former professor.
Their dialogue delved into Lorenzo’s personal journey, the interplay of faith and fashion, and the ethos behind his brand’s success…”
Did Saturday’s Rally Mark a Turning Point at FAMU?
“As the FAMU NAACP blazes a trail in university activism, the hope is that their efforts will inspire other student organizations to address critical global challenges. The rallying cry heard on the streets of Tallahassee is now a challenge to the entire FAMU student body: break the silence, raise your voices, and stand against genocide.
The journey has just begun, and FAMU students are poised to lead the way in transforming their university into a hub of conscientious activism, fostering a spirit of solidarity that transcends campus borders. This rally was not just an event — it was the start of a movement that holds the potential to redefine the role of FAMU in shaping a better, more just world…”
Commencement Competes With Bowl Game
“As the week of Dec. 10-16 approaches, the atmosphere at Florida A&M University is electric with anticipation. Graduating seniors of the Class of 2023 are gearing up for their fall commencement ceremony scheduled for Dec. 15.
However, this excitement is somewhat overshadowed by the stellar performance of the FAMU football team, the SWAC champions, set to face Howard University in the 2023 Cricket Celebration Bowl at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Dec. 16.
The swift shift of attention from the graduation spotlight to the university’s participation in the 2023 MEAC vs. SWAC showdown has left many students pondering their priorities and the impact on their special day…”
A Call for Solidarity Between FAMU Students and Palestinians
“As students of Florida A&M University, we are successors to a legacy of activism and resilience. However, as we reflect on our own history, it becomes imperative to acknowledge the interconnectedness of our struggles and extend our solidarity to those facing injustice beyond our borders.
The call to action is clear — we must do better in publicly supporting Palestinians on our campus.
In the spirit of unity, let us amplify the voices of those who yearn for freedom, justice and dignity by educating ourselves and organizing peaceful protests and awareness campaigns. Florida A&M University can be a beacon of solidarity, illuminating the path toward a future where the struggles against racial violence and subjugation are seen as two sides of the same coin…”
Is Group or Individual Study More Effective?
“As midterms bid their temporary farewell and final exams sneakily tiptoe into the academic foreground, the debate on the most effective study method echoes through the corridors of student discussions, faculty reflections and academic research circles.
Front and center in this ongoing discussion is a pivotal question — is studying more efficient through the collective efforts of group study or in the solitary pursuit of individual study? Navigating this intricate landscape of learning methods and dissecting both approaches’ advantages and drawbacks becomes imperative…”
Will T-Pain Deliver the Right Message?
“The North Florida Community Development Corporation’s “50 Years of Hip Hop Celebration Concert” has a noble mission at its core: to combat the rising tide of gun violence gripping the city. The inclusion of artists like Doug E. Fresh and MC Lyte, who have previously used their platforms to advocate for change, underscores the event’s commitment to addressing this pressing issue. However, the spotlight inevitably turns to T-Pain, the local icon returning to his roots for this crucial cause.
The question lingers: Was T-Pain the right choice to be the face of this message? Can a man who, in part, markets himself as a product of Tallahassee’s hardships effectively convey a message of positivity and change?
These are valid concerns, as the artist’s image has been built on the struggles he faced in the city. Yet, therein lies the potential for a powerful narrative — a testament to resilience and transformation…”
‘Grads Are Back’ Returns
“Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host the highly anticipated homecoming event, “Grads Are Back 2023: Paving the Path for Future Communicators.” It is set to take place this Wednesday and Thursday. This two-day gathering promises to be a bridge that connects generations, fostering networks and empowering the next wave of communicators.
The event celebrates community building within journalism, public relaitons and graphic communication, aiming to bring together SJGC alums, current students and seasoned industry professionals to provide an enriching experience for all attendees. It’s an opportunity for students to connect with alums and industry experts, cultivating relationships beyond the classroom…”
Multiple Groups Working Together to Reduce Gun Violence
“In the face of rising gun violence rates, Tallahassee is taking a proactive stance in the battle against this pressing issue. In collaboration with various partners, the Council on Status of Men & Boys, Community Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative (CVIPI) is at the forefront of this endeavor, working diligently to address the challenges and seek viable solutions.
The Council on Status of Men & Boys, under the leadership of Executive Director Royle King, held a press conference Friday to provide a 14-month update on their efforts to combat gun violence in the community. King articulated their mission, which revolves around developing a comprehensive violence reduction strategic plan…”
Rahkiah Brown, new South City Foundation CEO
“In a significant development for the South City Foundation and the Tallahassee community, Rahkiah Brown has been named the organization’s new chief executive officer [CEO], effective Oct. 9.
This announcement marks a pivotal moment in the foundation’s journey, and stakeholders are eager to witness the positive impact Brown will bring to the South City neighborhood.
South City Foundation, a distinguished member of the Purpose-Built Network, plays a vital role as the community quarterback, uniting various stakeholders in community revitalization efforts. By approaching challenges systematically, the foundation promotes access to quality education, affordable housing and local health and wellness opportunities. It creates an economic pipeline for residents, including job opportunities and access to capital.
Brown’s appointment as CEO is a testament to the foundation’s commitment to fostering positive change in the South City community…”
Book Expo Coming to Tallahassee, FAMU
“Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of literature as LitCon, a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing authors and aspiring writers, unveils its much-anticipated Tallahassee Florida Book Expo.
This two-day event promises to celebrate words, creativity and the enduring power of storytelling. The dates are set for Oct. 7 at the Leroy Collins Public Library for the Writer’s Symposium and Workshop, followed by Oct. 8 at Florida A&M University’s Grand Ballroom Rooms B&C for the Author’s Expo…”
New Affordable Housing Complex Comes to Life
“In an influential stride toward addressing the affordable housing crisis, McDowell Housing Partners proudly hosted a grand opening ceremony and ribbon cutting Tuesday for Ekos Magnolia Oaks, a 110-unit low- and middle-income housing community nestled in the heart of Tallahassee’s south side.
The development consists of 30 one-bedroom, 65 two-bedroom, and 15 three-bedroom apartments, specifically designed to cater to families needing affordable housing solutions.
One of the primary purposes of this project is to present families in Tallahassee with housing opportunities that align with their economic circumstances. The apartments at Ekos Magnolia Oaks are exclusively reserved for families with incomes at or below 33% – 60% of the area median income. With rental rates varying from a modest $427 to $1,203 per month, this community aims to create comfortable, quality housing for a broader range of individuals and families…”