In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Dillard University and did an interview with Lena Uddyback the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.
The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Uddyback, who is majoring in Urban Studies and Public Policy, is from Detroit.
We interviewed Lena Uddyback, and talked to her about her position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.
Photo Credit: @vellproductions
Read the full interview below.
What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?
The biggest thing I learned serving in the capacity of SGA President is that as long as you do your best, that is all that matters. I think it is so easy to feel like all of your efforts are not enough or that you are not making enough impact. But, that is far from the truth. You can’t please everyone, but as long as your administration is doing everything in their power to advocate on behalf of students, that is what really matters.
What made you decide to attend Dillard University for undergrad?
I decided to attend Dillard University due to our university being the only university in America to have a full time pre-law program. It was also one of the few HBCUs to offer a Urban Studies and Public Policy undergraduate degree. While I attended Dillard University due to their amazing academic programming, I am a third generation legacy student. My grandparents Dr. Odie Uddyback Jr. and Clory Hayes-Uddyback me and graduated from Dillard University in the 1940’s. My father Att. Odie Uddyback III, aunt Dr. Alyssa Uddyback-York, and my sister Lauren Uddyback; have attended Dillard University. They all have expressed a deep appreciation for the education they have received from Dillard University, which inspired me to do the same.
Photo Credit: @vellproductions
How has Dillard University molded you into the person you are today?
Dillard University has molded me into the student leader and young intellectual I am today. Dillard University is a private, liberal arts, Black Ivy League school. Due to its rich history and legacy, our professors make it their mission to deepen our education of African American history. Since attending Dillard University I have sharpen my public speaking skills, increased the amount of time I read, and I have developed strong self-study habits. Attending Dillard University has given me discipline and courage that I didn’t have before entering college. I grew a strong desire of reading, writing, African mythology and the Arts. As I am leaving Dillard University, I feel more than prepared to enter graduate school or work a full-time job!
Photo Credit: @vellproductions
What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?
The Phoenix Administration had three initiatives this year they are as follows:
1) Establish SGA’s brand on campus
2) Improve Campus Facilities + Student Incentives
3) Increase student participation and engagement
We were able to offer stipends, community service hours, pins, and sweaters for current SGA members. We have met with administrators to implement a student engagement fee to fund all of our student organization events. We have held countless meetings with our facilities director, University President Dr. Ford, Vice President of Student Success Dr. Smith, other departments to address student concerns on campus.We have created leadership opportunities for students that are looking to increase their involvement in extracurricular activities on campus and encouraged students to participate in elections! We hosted a Student Leader town hall to hear concerns from student leaders on campus. We also hosted listening sessions for students to feel free to express their concerns. We redeveloped a positive structure within our administration to make sure our administration can work more effectively. We also created a social media series titled “SGA WEEKLY UPDATE Video” to provide students of programming and events taking place around campus. Lastly, we have created a positive space for the future of Dillard University’s Student Government Association for years to come!
How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?
Our Student Service Senate Committee has hosted a Student Services Meet and Greet! The event allowed students to meet staff and faculty members within our counseling office. Our university has included a health insurance plan for students. The health insurance plan expanded mental health resources for students.We have also advocated for two Mental Health days to be added on our calendar. We also hosted a Student Care Basket Giveaway!
What does leadership mean to you?
The definition of leadership is the state or position of being a leader, it is the act of leading a team or people of an organization. In order to display leadership you must first be a leader. Being a leader means that your take on an extra set of responsibilities to progress your team or organization. Being a leader means that you put others before yourself, you exhibit courage, respect, bravery, and integrity. Leadership is something that shouldn’t be taken lightly and someone shouldn’t seek leadership for titles, awards, or other accolades. You should seek leadership, to make a positive difference in your community.
We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?
I think schools need to have a full-time press or communications office. This office or department will handle all things social media, news press, and email correspondence on behalf of the university. This will engage alumni, prospective students, staff, and faculty. As well engage members of the community and current students, staff, and faculty. We are in a digital world and it’s time our universities took advantage of it.
Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?
I think Watch the Yard is important to Black Students and College Culture because it is important for us to see positive content involving African Americans. We see a lot of content on social media platforms that shows young African Americans in a negative light. This page shows educated, community service centered, young African Americans. Watch the Yard also is a great place to learn more information regarding HBCUs. Growing up in Detroit, many African American students aren’t encouraged to attend HBCUs. This page will allow students the opportunity to learn more about the opportunities that can be found at HBCU. Watch the Yard also post a lot of content involving NPHC organizations. While I am not a member of an NPHC organization, I think it is a very important part of student life and culture on campus. They host community service events, parties, and help to push initiatives like financial literacy, mental health, or even mentor children at local schools.
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
I plan to attend a law school or enter into a Master’s Degree program at an HBCU.
We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Lena Uddyback for her work as the SGA president of Dillard University.
Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Lena Uddyback and Dillard University.
Orenthal James Simpson, widely known as O.J. Simpson, has passed away at the age of 76 after battling cancer, as confirmed by a statement attributed to his family on his official social media account.
The announcement, shared on Simpson’s official X account, revealed that the former football star died on Wednesday, April 10, while surrounded by his children and grandchildren. The post urged the public to respect the family’s wishes for privacy and grace during this difficult time.
Both remarkable athletic achievements and significant controversy marked Simpson’s life. Born on July 9, 1947, in San Francisco, California, Simpson rose to prominence as a standout football player at the collegiate level, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1968 while playing for the University of Southern California.
His success on the football field continued into his professional career, where he became a household name as a running back for the Buffalo Bills and later the San Francisco 49ers. Simpson’s illustrious football career earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.
However, Simpson’s legacy is also deeply intertwined with the highly publicized trial surrounding the deaths of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, in 1994. The trial, often referred to as the “Trial of the Century,” captivated the nation and ended with Simpson’s acquittal in 1995, despite significant evidence against him.
Following the trial, Simpson remained a controversial figure, with public opinion sharply divided over his innocence or guilt in the murders. In 2007, he was convicted of armed robbery and kidnapping in a separate case involving the theft of sports memorabilia, for which he served nine years in prison before being granted parole in 2017.
Throughout his life, Simpson remained a polarizing figure, with his name often making headlines for various reasons. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Simpson’s impact on the world of sports and popular culture is undeniable.
As news of his passing spreads, tributes and reflections on Simpson’s life and legacy are likely to pour in from fans, critics, and those whose lives intersected with his in various ways.
Following the closed case of elder abuse, “Good Times” actor John Amos plans to move forward with the production of his new film.
Actor John Amos, shown at the 2007 TV Land Awards, is moving forward with a documentary. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)
“I am even more determined to complete production on the documentary film that my son and I are producing,” Amos told People. “It will shed light on the real truth as to the motives of those who have painted a false narrative about me. I am John Amos, and quite frankly, this mess is bringing out James Evans to stay.”
The Los Angeles Police Department started an investigation into elder abuse allegations made by Amos’ daughter, Shannon. She claimed that her brother, Kelly “K.C.,” was not properly meeting their father’s health-care needs.
Shannon shared her frustrations with the police department’s decision Monday to close the case due to lack of evidence.
“While I acknowledge the efforts of the LAPD on my father’s case, I am disappointed with their conclusion since no one from my family has seen or spoken to my father since July 2023, when K.C. Amos, Eugene Brummet, and Belinda Foster removed him from a medical facility against doctors’ orders,” she said in a statement. “We continue to receive outreach from care providers, medical professionals, and others with evidence that raises concerns over his well-being and whether he is receiving the care his health requires.”
Recommended Stories
Amos denied Shannon’s initial allegations of being a victim of elder abuse in June 2023. His daughter soon filed a complaint with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and started a GoFundMe campaign to raise “care expenses” for her father. At her father’s request, Shannon removed the page that raised more than $13,000 at the time.
In March, the 84-year-old actor denied new allegations of neglect made by his daughter. He regarded Shannon’s claims as “false and unmerited” and described K.C. as “a caring, thoughtful human being who respects me.”
Amos and his son, a filmmaker, are collaborating on the “Roots” actor’s forthcoming docuseries, which will focus on his life and the longevity of his five-decade acting career.
“The real truth will come out soon, and you will hear it from me,” Amos continued. “Believe it.”
Amos has been a force in film and TV throughout his lifetime. His lengthy acting résumé includes roles in “Two and a Half Men,” “Coming to America,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and other projects.
His death comes after he was diagnosed with cancer in 2023 and was began receiving treatment with prostate cancer in February, according to reports. If there’s one group of people you can expect to not take his passing seriously… it’s Black Twitter.
No one is holding back. Users took to the timeline with banter about Simpson being dragged to hell, reposting Norm MacDonald’s 11-minute O.J. Simpson roast session and a snarky jabs that “The Juice” expired.
This banter only reminds me of the time Dave Chappelle recalled the four times he met The Juice. After the fourth time, Simpson left out the room and Chappelle said he and his team looked at each other once the door closed like, “…That n*gga did that s***”
Anyways, y’all let that man rest wherever his soul ends up.
In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to University of Central Arkansas and did an interview with Colby Wilson the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.
The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Wilson, who is majoring in Health Sciences with a Minor in Public relations, is from Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He is a proud Spring 2022 initiate of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
We interviewed Colby Wilson, and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.
Read the full interview below.
What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?
Being the SGA President at the University of Central Arkansas has given me so much, but the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that to lead you have to know how to follow. In leadership positions, I’ve learned you will not know all the answers to everything, and just because you don’t know doesn’t mean that you are any less of a leader. Every day you have to be willing to learn something new because you have so many people who are counting on you. I am beyond blessed to have an amazing executive staff who help me beyond measure.
What made you decide to attend University of Central Arkansas for undergrad?
I chose the University of Central Arkansas honestly, because of my friends. I am originally from Pine Bluff, Arkansas, and I knew I wanted to be away from home. When I made my decision, it was tough because my entire family went to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. I had no earthly idea that the decision would change my life forever. I stepped out on faith, and it has become the best decision I have ever made.
How has University of Central Arkansas molded you into the person you are today?
Being at UCA has helped me view the world differently. Being away from home was a different experience for me. It taught me how to survive and do things on my own. It made me more responsible and has helped develop me into the student leader I am today. Being a black man at a PWI has had its challenges, but it has helped me navigate the world in a way that makes me appreciate diversity, equity, and inclusion like never before.
What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?
This year alone, the SGA at the University of Central Arkansas has done a lot of good for the campus community, as well as the Conway community. We have hosted events that focus on students first such as resume workshops, Our Food for Fines program, our campus safety walks, feminine product drives, rape care kits for the local hospitals, community improvement projects, raising funds for the university, and so much more. We like to call out values STIC, which stands for Service, Transparency, Integrity, and Community.
How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?
UCA does a good job of addressing students’ concerns. To combat mental health, we have a lot of different programs and events in place. For SGA specifically, we’ve done survival kits for finals week, given stress balls to students, and participated in a stress-less fest where we provided punching bags for the event. In terms of the university, they host things like Wellapalooza, exam jam, late-night breakfast, provide stress pets, and have a plethora of other events and interactions to try to alleviate the stress we face as college students.
What does leadership mean to you?
Leadership to me is the way you carry yourself when no one is watching. Leadership is still understanding that I have a title even when I take off my at the end of the day. My JROTC instructor told me that leadership is not like a nine-to-five job. It is 24 hours, 365. It never stops. You always have to understand that someone is looking at you to be an example. I like to think of it as the weight of the world on my shoulders.
We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?
I think that social media is a great tool in terms of growing your social platform at colleges and universities. I am a proponent of social interactions and I think institutions that take the time to get out in front of students’ faces are a great asset to a University. The first thing students do when they decide to consider a school is go to social media and find the school’s page. I think it’s important for schools to put out content that makes them unique, and show their campus life, and student interaction.
Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?
I think Watch The Yard is extremely important to Black students and college culture. It is a place that highlights black Greek leaders/students in their academic adventures. It is a network that connects people everywhere and highlights the importance of being black and educated. Everyone wants to be featured (On Watch the Yard) and everyone wants recognition. It is a platform that unites people of color no matter where you are or what university you go to.
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
I am currently an applicant for the Dental hygiene program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. I plan on pursuing a career in dentistry.
We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Colby Wilson for his work as the SGA president of University of Central Arkansas.
Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Colby Wilson and University of Central Arkansas.
Photo Credits for this article: @ogleeyphoto @iamshadmusic @chrismarichardson
In a recent statement, Congressional Progressive Caucus Deputy Chair Ilhan Omar (MN-05) expressed support for the Biden administration’s newly unveiled plans for student debt relief. While acknowledging that the proposal falls short of universal student debt cancellation, Omar commended the administration for taking bold steps to address the ongoing student debt crisis affecting millions of Americans.
The proposed rule, which response to requests made by several progressive leaders including CPC Chair Jayapal, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Representative Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), aims to provide relief to a significant portion of the student loan burden.
Under the administration’s plan, approximately 25 million borrowers would see their interest balances automatically canceled, with 23 million likely to have their entire balance growth forgiven. This includes the cancellation of up to $20,000 of accrued interest for borrowers enrolled in income-driven repayment plans.
Furthermore, the proposal would automatically cancel debt for around 2 million borrowers who are eligible for relief through programs like the SAVE plan or Public Service Loan Forgiveness but have not successfully applied. It would also provide debt cancellation for borrowers who have been in repayment for 20 years for undergraduate loans and 25 years for graduate school loans, regardless of their repayment plan.
Additionally, student debt associated with institutions or programs that lost eligibility due to misconduct or closure would be canceled, along with debt for borrowers facing significant hardships such as medical debt or childcare expenses.
Omar hailed these plans as potentially transformative for millions of Americans grappling with student loan debt, emphasizing the urgent need for swift action. While she pledged to continue advocating for universal student debt cancellation, she underscored the significance of the administration’s proposal in providing immediate relief to those in need.
If implemented, these measures could alleviate the financial burden on countless individuals and families, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing battle against student debt.
Botulinum toxin, also known as botox and fillers, are minimally invasive cosmetic procedures that we are seeing more conversations around and interest in the Black community.
In this episode of New Money, theGrio chatted with Dr. Michelle Henry, a board certified dermatologist and the founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, to break down the difference between botox and fillers and the risks all while capturing firsthand experience of Kersten Stevens, a jazz violinist, getting botox and fillers for the first time.
theGrio New Money provides insight and education into the dynamic world of luxury, focusing on emerging trends that redefine modern notions of beauty, style, and indulgence. From luxury accessories to non-invasive cosmetic treatments, we explore the ever-evolving landscape of aspirational living in the Black community.Check out more episodes here.
In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Lincoln University of PA and did an interview with Hashone Carry Jr. the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.
The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Carry, who is majoring in Political Science with an International Relations Minor, is from Pittsburgh, PA.
We interviewed Hashone Carry Jr., and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.
Read the full interview below.
What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?
As SGA President, I have learned the importance of fostering a productive work environment for your team. No matter how skilled, qualified, or experienced your team is, if you cannot maintain a work environment that produces creativity and allows all team members to work effectively, communicate efficiently, collaborate, and be motivated to work, then you will not reach your team’s fullest potential.
What made you decide to attend Lincoln University of PA for undergrad?
I honestly believe that my university chose me. My Lincoln legacy started after I met two Lincoln Alumni a week before the official Fall 2021 move-in day. Prior to meeting them, I honestly did not know LUPA existed. With no set plans to go to college and after heavily considering the military, I took a chance at applying for Lincoln AFTER the Fall 2021 application deadline. All glory to god, I was accepted into Lincoln with less than a week remaining in the summer. I made an impulsive decision to move across the state with 2 days notice, with the complete understanding that I would receive absolutely 0 financial aid or emergency funds to support my tuition. With plans to maximize my blessing, I worked hard during my first semester on campus and achieved a 4.0 GPA, which qualified me for my first two scholarships. Afterwards, I adopted the mindset to take advantage of every opportunity I could. The rest is history.
How has Lincoln University of PA molded you into the person you are today?
Lincoln University of PA has molded me into the person I am today by teaching me the importance of building a strong foundation, a community and/or family outside of your traditional family. When you are far from home, you need a support system that will help you grow and hold you accountable. Lincoln University of PA’s family-oriented culture has strengthened my character by opening my eyes up to the possibilities that exist when you empower others in an environment of reciprocity. All people involved exponentially develop for the better, which enriches the environment in every aspect – physically, mentally, spiritually, professionally, and so on.
What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?
I am proud to share that my SGA Administration, the Change Administration, has been very productive in terms of accomplishing our initiatives. Among many initiatives, here are a few notable ones that I’d like to highlight:
1. I successfully implemented an unprecedented Online Donations Campaign that has contributed to over a million dollars in community donations for the 2023-2024 academic school year. Please donate to support the nation’s first-degree-granting HBCU, Lincoln University of PA: https://giving.lincoln.edu/pages/1854Promise Assisted in rebranding the university’s online social media presence by advocating for more student and Alumni success spotlights, which helped increase community engagement and student enrollment (ongoing)
2. Created a mentorship program that hosted weekly educational events for students
3. Organized a professional networking dinner with students and professionals from various industries, which fostered an environment that provided scholarships, internships, job opportunities, and connections with an attendance of 120+ people in partnership with Longwood Gardens, PA.
4. Advocated for more institutional funding and resources via an interview at the PA Governor’s residence + spoke at a Press Conference in Harrisburg pertaining to the HB 1461 in support of the LUPA Freedom 14’s efforts #March2Harrisburg (Resulted in an increase in HBCU State Funding in PA)
How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?
My SGA administration/school is currently working on attending to the mental health of students in a variety of ways. In collaboration with our university, here are a few initiatives we have accomplished:
1. Promoted our Timely Care partnership, a virtual mental health app that grants students access to 24/7 mental health support.
2. In collaboration with our university’s counseling services, we created a promotional video to bring awareness to the therapists and on-campus mental health resources that are available to students.
3. We hosted a Mental Health town hall for the student body that shared information about effective coping techniques and practices to maintain a healthy mental space headed into Finals week
4. Weekly Mental Health Mondays + ratified a policy that allows students to choose their own personal mental health day out of the semester where they are granted an excusal to tend to their mental health and more
What does leadership mean to you?
To me, leadership is the ability to empower, teach, guide, and embody an ideal example for others to follow. Leadership is a lifestyle that a person commits to that is reinforced with the intention to bring about a positive change for a person, place, thing, movement, or cause.
We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?
Because we now live in a digital world, I think all schools need to invest in media street teams to accompany all of the most influential aspects of their school community (Academic Events/Student life, SGA, Athletics, Administration Service, etc.). Resultantly, the school will highlight the positive work that is being done and encourage enrollment into their school.
Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?
Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture because it provides an inclusive platform catered to highlighting and accurately representing successful Black students and student-led organizations at HBCUs, thus enriching college culture by increasing connectivity amongst black college students nationwide.
What do you plan on doing after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to attend a nationally ranked Law School and enroll in a dual program that allows me to study to get my Juris Doctorate in international law as well as my master’s in political science. Afterward, I want to enroll into a prestigious foreign services pipeline program to immerse myself in work related to my dream career, which is to work as an International Diplomat and eventually become an appointed Ambassador. I am passionate about travel and committed to making a difference to bring about World Peace.
Throughout my career, I plan to continue to expand my freelance videography/photography business, Shot By HASH, and document my travel experiences across the globe. By using my platform, I hope to bring education and awareness to important issues related to world affairs, foreign cultures, 3rd world country living conditions, global advocacy, and highlight underrepresented people.
Lastly, I plan to be a role model/mentor for the youth and people seeking direction. I plan to fulfill my dream of being a philanthropist, humanitarian, and community activist by giving back to the communities I serve by paying the wisdom and resources forward.
We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Hashone Carry Jr. for his work as the SGA president of Lincoln University of PA.
Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Hashone Carry Jr. and Lincoln University of PA.
A Detroit man has been arrested for allegedly shooting a Chipotle worker for not giving him enough guacamole with his meal. After the violent episode, the suspect took his food and left the 21-year-old employee to tend to their injuries.
The Walking Dead & Other TV Shows Released in 2024 You Should Catch Up On
In addition, the Chipotle where it happened was directly across the street from the Southfield Police Headquarters. Adam Brown, 32, was pulled over by authorities just moments after the shooting. The arrest was caught on an officer’s bodycam.
On Sunday, April 7, Brown was arraigned and charged with assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder, discharging a weapon in or at a building causing injury, and two counts of possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
On Monday, Brown was held in the Oakland County Jail on a $20,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court for a probable cause hearing on April 17. If he gets convicted, the suspect could receive up to 10 years in prison and an extra two years for the firearm charge.
The victim is in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery. Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren explained what happened during a press conference.
“While standing at the register, Mr. Brown asked for extra guacamole for the food he’d just purchased,” Barren stated. “A female Chipotle employee who was serving Mr. Brown gave him what he believed was too small of an amount of guacamole, which upset Mr. Brown.
“Mr. Brown then called the female employee a derogatory name — the ‘B’ word — which upset her understandably,” the chief continued. “Other Chipotle employees escorted the female cashier away from the area to avoid any further conflict.”
After paying for his food, Brown, allegedly went around the store counter to bag his own items, and then he took a cup and filled it with guacamole, explained Barren.
“The 21-year-old victim walked from the kitchen area and observed Mr. Brown serving himself. The victim knocked the guacamole out of Mr. Brown’s hand. Mr. Brown immediately grabbed the victim by the neck, slammed him into a refrigerator, and then a fight ensued,” said Barren. “Mr. Brown then pulled out a 9mm handgun, which was concealed on his right hip, and fired one round, striking the victim in his right knee.”
Brown does possess a permit to carry a concealed weapon with no criminal record. For this to be his first offense is shocking, to say the least.