The championship performance showcased the determination and resilience of the Voorhees program. After fouling on his first two preliminary attempts, Burris entered his final jump of the opening round needing a clean mark to avoid elimination. Rising to the occasion, he delivered a clutch 16.22-meter leap to qualify for the finals before opening the championship round with the historic record-breaking jump that secured the title in dominant fashion.

Burris entered the competition as the nation’s top-ranked triple jumper and solidified his status among the NAIA’s elite with one of the greatest performances in championship history. He also earned provisional qualification for the 2026 USATF Outdoor Championships in the triple jump alongside fellow Tigers Michael Tatnall and Jaylen Burris.

Voorhees’ excellence in the jumps continued throughout the meet as Jaylen Burris captured national runner-up honors in the long jump with a leap of 7.68 meters before adding a third-place finish in the triple jump with a mark of 15.39 meters. Tatnall, the reigning 2024 NAIA Outdoor Triple Jump National Champion, added another All-American performance by placing fourth in the triple jump at 15.16 meters.

The Tigers also produced standout performances on the track and in the field beyond the jumps’ events. Deandre Jones earned fourth place in the high jump, while Zaireon Skinner secured a third-place finish in the 200-meter dash. Skinner also teamed with Keyawn Spencer, Stephan Mitchell, and Ayden Chambers to place fourth in the 4×100-meter relay.

Several Tigers also qualified for upcoming national competitions. Jones qualified for the 2026 USATF U20 Outdoor Championships in the high jump, while Skinner earned qualification in both the 100-meter and 200-meter events.

The championship meet marked the second time this season that Voorhees athletes claimed three of the top four spots in a national championship triple jump competition after accomplishing the same feat during the NAIA Indoor Track & Field Championships earlier this year.

The success of the Tigers program was further recognized as Head Coach Jeffery B. Hughes was named the Southern Region Outdoor Coach of the Year. Hughes was also recognized by the USTFCCCA as the No. 1 men’s NAIA track and field Black head coach in the nation.

“I am extremely proud of these students. They have persevered and made their families and the entire ������ family proud” said Coach Jeffery Hughes.

“We are extremely proud of our men’s outdoor track and field team as they not only excel on the conference level, but the national level as well. Congratulations to Coach Hughes and his entire team as they continue promoting ������ towards ‘The Next Level of Excellence,'” said Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics, Charlene Johnson.

“This remarkable achievement reflects the determination and championship spirit that defines ������. Finishing fifth nationally among more than 100 institutions while producing a national champion and multiple All-Americans is an extraordinary accomplishment. We congratulate Coach Jeffery Hughes and our outstanding student-athletes for representing ������ with excellence on the national stage and continuing to move our institution to ‘The Next Level of Excellence,'” said Voorhees President and CEO, Dr. Ronnie Hopkins.

The Tigers’ remarkable performance on the national stage highlighted the continued rise of ������ Athletics as one of the premier track & field programs in the NAIA and reflected a season defined by excellence, perseverance, and championship-level achievement.

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Mr. Jaydon Robinson and Mr. Dahjmere Reddick, both members of the University’s HBCU Health Initiative, participated in a six-week paid virtual Black AIDS Institute internship from March through May 2026. This internship was made possible through a partnership with Special Health Resources, a nonprofit organization that provides community clinics and HIV/STD prevention programs. While continuing their work as student health ambassadors on additional health-related initiatives, the students also represented ������ through the BAI program.

During the internship, students explored epidemiological practices used in HIV research and surveillance, the continuum of care for individuals living with HIV, and the social and health disparities affecting vulnerable communities. The experience also provided students with a deeper understanding of HIV transmission, prevention, education, and the importance of reducing stigma.

To participate in the internship, both students completed public health coursework and BAI HIV/AIDS course modules designed and developed by Dr. Kendall Williams, HBCU Health Discovery Strategist with the Rural Community Development Institute, who also managed the internship experience.

“This opportunity to learn more about the devastating effects of HIV on the African American community is a vital step toward a more inclusive understanding of just how negatively impactful this disease has been on the black community,” said Dr. Williams. “From this internship, these students will be equipped with a chance to educate and improve the health outcomes of individuals living with HIV in their communities.”

Although the internship was conducted virtually, students described the experience as highly engaging and comparable to hands-on healthcare training experiences.
“My internship experience has opened my eyes to how deeply HIV continues to impact the African American community,” said Mr. Reddick. “It helped me better understand the importance of education, testing, and breaking stigma to create healthier and more informed communities.”

Mr. Robinson added, “My virtual internship experience has helped me better understand the impact HIV continues to have within the African American community, especially regarding education, access to resources, and stigma. It has shown me the importance of community outreach, awareness, and culturally informed healthcare in creating meaningful change and improving health outcomes.”

The internship reflects ������’s continued commitment to health equity, student leadership, and community engagement through experiential learning opportunities that prepare students to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

For more information, please contact Dr. Kendall Williams at kwilliams@voorhees.edu.

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“We are excited to welcome a campus-driven health podcast that promotes positive health behaviors and bridges gaps in health literacy,” said Dr. Cathy Scarborough, Founding Director of the RCDI. “Well Connected reflects our commitment to student wellness and community engagement.”

Background and Development
Planning and development began during Spring 2026 with a rotating host format designed to encourage active student participation. The first recording session took place on February 21, 2026, featuring Jamal Dewalt in a discussion on healthy relationships, domestic violence awareness, emotional safety, and mental wellness.

Jaydon J. Robinson, a Business Administration major and Student Health Ambassador, contributed episodes on student wellness and entrepreneurship. An additional episode, “Life Beyond the Tassel,” addressed the emotional and mental transitions students face after graduation. The podcast has also partnered with Willie Billy Simon of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation for future episodes on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.

Upcoming Topics for the 2026–2027 Academic Year

• Black Student Wellness Roundtable
• How Do You Really Make Friends in College?
• Healing from Academic Burnout
• Financial Wellness 101: Broke But Balanced
• From the Counseling Center: What Therapy Is (and Isn’t)
• Transitioning From High School to College

Well Connected is scheduled to relaunch in August 2026, airing on WVCD 96.5 FM and 790 AM on the first and third Tuesdays, with support from Mr. Clarence Jones, Radio Broadcast Specialist at ������. Current efforts focus on expanding the podcast’s reach through marketing, branding, and social media engagement.

About the Rural Community Development Institute
The Rural Community Development Institute (RCDI) at ������ supports health education and community wellness initiatives across rural South Carolina. The HBCU Health Discovery Program, sponsored by the South Carolina Center for Rural and Primary Healthcare, provides resources and programming advance student and community health literacy and wellness.

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Hosted by the Department of Student Affairs and University Bands, the weeklong enrichment program will provide students with intensive musical instruction, leadership development, and performance preparation while offering directors opportunities for collaboration and professional engagement.

The camp will feature discussions and presentations for middle and high school band directors, auxiliary coaches, percussion instructors, and winds instructors. Students will receive approximately 60 hours of enrichment training in dance, flag, percussion, and wind instruction designed to strengthen both technical skills and individual school identity.
Camp registration fees are $300 for overnight campers, which includes room and board, $200 for day campers, and $200 for band directors and coaches.

Under the direction of Eddie Ellis, the program is designed to expose participants to the collegiate band experience while enhancing musicianship, performance techniques, and leadership development.

The event reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to community engagement, youth development, and expanding visibility throughout the region by connecting prospective students and families with the Voorhees experience.

For additional information, contact Eddie Ellis at eellis@voorhees.edu or (803) 780-1020.

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Selected as one of only eight fellows from more than 150 applicants nationwide, Mulenga collaborated with a cross-institutional team to design an advanced stormwater management system aimed at improving flood detection and emergency response for communities. Her team’s project was recognized for its innovation, feasibility, and real-world impact during final presentations at Charlotte Community Tech Day 2026 in North Carolina.

Representing ������, Mulenga served as a software developer on the team, working alongside Lamika Walker, Project Manager from South Carolina State University, and Sunpairre Tamene, Software Developer from Coppin State University. Together, the team developed a comprehensive solution addressing localized flooding challenges in Henry County, Georgia, earning them a $5000 award for first place.

The project featured three key components: a sensor-based data collection and alert system to notify city officials and residents, an AI-driven tool to determine optimal sensor placement using historical flood data, and a real-time GIS dashboard built using Esri ArcGIS technology to monitor water levels and environmental conditions. Mulenga played a critical role in integrating data systems and supporting the platform’s functionality.

“This outstanding accomplishment reflects the innovation and academic excellence we foster at ������,” said Dr. Edward Hill, Provost and Vice President of ������. “Josephine’s success demonstrates the power of experiential learning and the impact our students can have in addressing real-world challenges through technology and collaboration.”

The HBCU Smart Cities Program, organized by the Pathway Community Foundation, brings together top students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the country. Participants engage with industry mentors, program coaches, and local government stakeholders—including officials from Henry County—to develop practical, scalable solutions grounded in real-world conditions. The program includes virtual collaboration, site visits, and iterative development based on expert feedback.
Following their first-place win, Mulenga and her team advanced their work with a Demo Day presentation in Henry County, Georgia, on May 5, 2026, where they showcased the implementation and potential impact of their solution.

This achievement underscores the importance of investing in diverse talent within STEM fields and highlights how HBCU students are leading innovation in smart city development. It also aligns with ������’s commitment to academic excellence and student engagement through hands-on, high-impact learning opportunities.

Mulenga credits her success to her faith and the support of mentors, faculty, and peers who have guided her throughout her journey.

������ celebrates Josephine Mulenga’s remarkable achievement and looks forward to her continued success as an emerging leader in technology and innovation.

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Housing space is expected to fill quickly, and early submission is strongly recommended for students seeking preferred housing accommodations and community placement opportunities.

Students may access the Fall 2026 Housing Application by scanning the QR code featured on the official flyer or visiting the university housing portal.

For questions, concerns, or additional assistance regarding housing applications and residential life, please contact:

Dean Sherrigan Feaster-Johnson
Email: sfjohnson@voorhees.edu

The Living and Learning Communities initiative is designed to provide students with a supportive residential environment that promotes academic achievement, leadership development, student engagement, and community connection.

Students are encouraged to apply early to ensure the best possible housing experience for the upcoming academic year.

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Hosted by the 2150 Center for Innovation, Commercialization & Growth in partnership with the HBCU AI Forward Program, the iLabs Hackathon is a first-of-its-kind venture creation experience designed to empower HBCU students to build, pitch, and launch real-world business solutions. The event brought together students from institutions across the country to collaborate, innovate, and present startup concepts before a distinguished audience of industry leaders, investors, and policymakers.

Representing ������, the student team delivered an exceptional pitch that earned them First Runner-Up distinction, highlighting their creativity, technical knowledge, and entrepreneurial vision.

The team’s award-winning pitch centered on the development of a health-focused adaptive clothing line, designed to meet the needs of individuals requiring functional, accessible, and wellness-supportive apparel. The concept included the creation of 10 prototype garments, incorporating innovative materials and a strategic production approach aimed at enhancing comfort, mobility, and health monitoring capabilities. The collection was designed to demonstrate real-world application through features such as adaptability, functionality, and user-centered design, positioning the brand at the intersection of fashion, health, and technology.

The ������ team included:

• Amelia Hunter, Freshman, Computer Science Cyber Security
• Shemar Stuart, Graduating Senior, Computer Science and Cybersecurity
• Jaydon Robinson, Rising Senior, Business Administration 
• Izayah Rahming, Rising Senior, Computer Science and Cybersecurity

 “This achievement is a testament to the innovation, talent, and determination of our students,” said Dr. Edward Hill, Provost and Vice President of ������. “Their success on a national stage reflects our continued commitment to academic excellence and student engagement, and it underscores the impact of providing transformative, hands-on learning opportunities.”

The iLabs Hackathon was held in conjunction with Smart City Expo USA at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, one of the nation’s leading conferences focused on urban innovation. The event attracts top government officials, Fortune 500 executives, global investors, and technology leaders, providing students with unparalleled exposure to real-world industry networks and emerging trends.

The 2150 Center for Innovation, Commercialization & Growth—established in 2024 at Miles College under the leadership of Bobbie Knight and CEO/Founder in Residence Erskine “Chuck” Faush—is dedicated to strengthening the HBCU innovation ecosystem. The Center connects researchers, students, and entrepreneurs to foster the development of groundbreaking ideas, successful businesses, and thriving communities.

Participation in the iLabs Hackathon aligns with ������’s Strategic Plan, particularly its focus on advancing academic excellence and enhancing student engagement through experiential learning opportunities.

������ commends its students for their outstanding performance and looks forward to continued success as they expand their entrepreneurial pursuits and contribute to the next generation of innovators and leaders.

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Omari Bryson, a senior Business Administration major from Rock Hill, South Carolina, is a standout member of the ������ men’s basketball team. Maintaining an impressive 3.75 cumulative GPA, Bryson has demonstrated excellence in the classroom while serving as a key contributor on the court and actively engaging in community service initiatives.

Armond Hopkins, a senior Biology major from Charlotte, North Carolina, competes in men’s outdoor track and field. Also holding a 3.75 cumulative GPA, Hopkins has distinguished himself through his athletic performance, academic discipline, and commitment to service, embodying the well-rounded excellence celebrated by this national recognition.
“This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about the caliber of students we cultivate at ������,” said Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, President and CEO of ������. “Omari and Armond exemplify ‘The Next Level of Excellence’ through their discipline, leadership, and commitment to making a difference beyond athletics. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and the national recognition they bring to our institution.”

The Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar Awards honor undergraduate students who exemplify the values of the late tennis legend and humanitarian Arthur Ashe. In addition to athletic performance, recipients are selected based on academic achievement and community service involvement. One male and one female finalist will be named Sports Scholar of the Year.

Past Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholars include notable figures such as Russell Wilson, Kara Lawson, Marshall Faulk, and Simone Manuel, highlighting the award’s legacy of recognizing individuals who go on to achieve excellence at the highest levels.

������ eagerly awaits the announcement of the 2026 Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar of the Year recipients in June and celebrates the extraordinary accomplishments of Bryson and Hopkins as they continue to represent the institution with pride and distinction.

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These students have demonstrated exceptional academic performance and intellectual rigor throughout their academic journeys, earning top honors among their graduating class.

1st Academic Honors

• Ashley Chambers, Computer Science & Cyber Security
• Paige Louis, Psychology
• Shemar Stewart, Computer Science & Cyber Security

2nd Academic Honors

• Georgea Saffrey, Biology

3rd Academic Honors

• Patience Badger, Biology
• Joshton Mincey, Computer Science & Cyber Security
• Avia Bevans, Computer Science & Cyber Security
• Waydeja Rolle, Business Administration

“These outstanding scholars represent the very best of ������,” said Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, President and CEO. “Their dedication to academic excellence and perseverance reflects the transformative power of education and the promise of future leadership. We are proud to celebrate their achievements as they prepare to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.”

The Spring 2026 Commencement Convocation serves as a culminating academic tradition, honoring students who have excelled in their studies and demonstrated a commitment to scholarship and leadership. These honorees set a high standard for their peers and embody the mission of ������ to develop informed, responsible, and engaged global citizens.

The University invites the campus community, alumni, and supporters to join in celebrating these exceptional students and congratulating them on their well-earned accomplishments.

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The sessions will provide attendees with valuable insight into ������’s graduate programs, admissions process, and the benefits of advancing their education at an institution committed to “The Next Level of Excellence.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about the following programs:

• Master of Education in Teaching and Learning (M.Ed.)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership

Session Dates & Formats
������ will host multiple opportunities for engagement:

• Tuesday, May 5, 2026 – Virtual Session (Zoom) at 6:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 19, 2026 – Virtual Session (Zoom) at 6:00 p.m.
• Thursday, June 4, 2026 – In-Person Networking Lunch Session
  • 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Cherry Blossom Room, ������

These sessions are designed to provide a personalized experience where prospective students can connect with faculty, learn about program requirements, and gain insight into career pathways aligned with their academic goals.

������’s School of Graduate Studies is dedicated to preparing students for leadership roles in education, business, and beyond. Through innovative programming and a supportive learning environment, the University continues to cultivate scholars who are equipped to make meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.

Registration Information
Prospective students are encouraged to RSVP and secure their spot for one of the upcoming sessions. For more information or to register, please contact the School of Graduate Studies at (803) 780-1057 or apply online today.

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