By BRANDON LARRABEE
THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

Florida A&M’s famous Marching 100 band will not take the field for another year, university president James Ammons announced Monday, as the fallout from a hazing death continues to roil the school.

Ammons said he had spoken with a wide cross-section of students, faculty, alumni and supporters of the school’s athletics programs before deciding that sensitivity to the family of drum major Robert Champion, who died in an alleged band-related hazing, and the need for more time to come up with new policies for the band should carry the day.

“After thoughtful considering of all of the information, I have decided that the suspension of the band will continue through the 2012-13 academic year,” Ammons told members of the school’s board of trustees on a conference call.

The announcement came four days after Chancellor Frank Brogan urged FAMU to continue the suspension of the Marching 100 in the wake of Champion’s death.

Champion, 26, was allegedly beaten to death in a ritual hazing on board a charter bus during a band trip to Orlando in November. The incident prompted university officials to suspend activities of the vaunted marching band while the investigation continued. Thirteen people have been charged in connection with the hazing.

Several probes of the band and hazing within it are still going on, including a university committee aimed at looking for ways to prevent hazing.

Ammons also said that a new set of guidelines would have to be put in place before the band could return. The new rules could deal with a broad range of subjects, from academics to practice time to travel policies.

“The band must be restructured,” he told trustees.

Ammons said a plan set to be unveiled at a board meeting in June will lay out how the band can be brought back while keeping students safe.

Despite some questions about how continuing to sideline the band — long seen as a highlight of FAMU football games and other sporting events — might impact the university, board members seemed generally supportive.

“I know it’s a hard pill to swallow, because we all love the Marching 100,” said trustee Torey Alston.

FAMU is discussing other ways of entertaining fans at the two classics the football team takes part in each year — the Atlanta Football Classic and the Florida Classic. The alleged hazing of Champion took place after the Florida Classic game between FAMU and Bethune Cookman.

Spring Commencement 2012

Special to the Outlook

Known to many in South Florida as “Baby Sam,” Nicholas E. Young was abandoned in an orange grove near Martin County following his birth, and found covered in ant bites. Through the love and support of his family and community, Young, now 22, has reached what he defines as his “greatest accomplishment” to date — earning his college degree in social work.

Donning his Florida A&M University (FAMU) cap and gown, adorned with a white tassel, honors cords and regalia indicative of the College of Arts and Sciences, Young has defied the odds and joined more than 1,300 graduates who received a college diploma during FAMU’s Spring Commencement events held on Saturday, April 28.  Young and his classmates received their diplomas at the Alfred Lawson Multipurpose Teaching Center and Gymnasium during one of three ceremonies that served as a launching pad for their careers.

“I am most looking forward to my family all coming together to celebrate,” Young said about his big day.

Young, who graduated with a 3.35 grade-point average, earned his bachelor’s degree during the 9 a.m. ceremony, featuring keynote speaker Sen. Arthenia Joyner.

“It feels amazing to know that no matter what obstacles are placed in front of you, you can always reach your goals,” he said. “I attribute my accomplishments to everyone who has helped me get to this point and believed that I could make it.”

Though some scarring remains, physically and mentally, Young remains optimistic about his future. He plans to earn his master’s degree in social work.

“It was difficult to deal with the scarring initially, but I accepted it, and learned to live with the fact that this is who I am,” Young said.

Adopted by Carl and Dorothy Young in August 1989, Nicholas cites his mother as his biggest inspiration.

“I am very proud of Nick,” said Dorothy Young. “Graduation is something we’ve been waiting for. To see him getting to this point is exciting. He deserves everything he has worked for.”

His grandmother, Dorothy Lambert, said she looked forward to seeing her grandson walk across the stage at commencement.

“We are here to back him,” Lambert said. “I try to be as supportive as possible.  Nicholas has been a great asset to our family. We couldn’t have asked God to send us a sweeter person. When I think of where he came from to where he is now, he makes me want to do more with myself.  I’m so proud of him.”

Nicholas Young said he is looking forward to one day being a “loving, understanding and compassionate” father, despite of his own experiences with his birth mother. He said that he has “no hard feelings” for his biological mother, but would like answers from her.

Young graduated from William T. Dwyer High School in Palm Beach in 2007.

After attaining his master’s, he plans to become a high school guidance counselor and assist youth in need, just as his social worker, Carolyn Lester, once did for him.

“I want to help guide the youth in what I believe is the most vulnerable time in your life — high school,” he said.

While at FAMU, Young, who added that the Marching “100’s” “Do What You Wanna” would best describe his college experience, was a member of the Student Social Work Association, National Association of Social Workers and Phi Alpha Honor Society.

“I chose to attend FAMU for the university’s rich history,” he said. “I found it neat to be surrounded by African-Americans who are defying the odds, and working toward their goals.”

In addition to Sen. Joyner, Congressman James E. Clyburn gave the commencement speech during the 2 p.m. ceremony and Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga was the keynote speaker at the 6 p.m. ceremony.

By Kanya Stewart

Outlook Staff Writer

Just six years ago, Gadsden County was known for its history of producing failing schools. Today, Gadsden County is now being celebrated for producing “A” schools and excelling in the state’s testing expectations. Eric Hinson, vice-chairman of the Gadsden County School Board, is one of the individuals who have been accredited with assisting the school district in its momentous turnaround.

With his “no excuses” leadership style, Hinson has inspired Gadsden County youth from all walks of life to continually aspire to greatness. His motto is a famous saying of Florida A&M University’s former Head Football Coach Billy Joe: “Don’t cry, try; don’t complain, train; and don’t be quick to quit.”

“This type of (no excuses) mindset will help individuals take responsibility for their actions and decisions,” said Hinson, a Havana, Fla. native. “Accepting responsibility means that one acknowledges the fact that his actions have a direct impact on him and others, good or bad.  As a result, he can establish himself as an individual.  This mindset definitely creates success.”

Hinson said his love for education was inspired by his godmother, Catherine James, a former Gadsden County School Board member. He believes that the faith and love she showed toward him gave him confidence and courage to pursue his dreams.

“She was a surrogate mom to me. She believed in me when others gave up,” he said. “She took the time to notice that voice inside of me that had been silenced for years.  She supported my football aspirations and helped to prepare me for college…. Because of her and many other local educators (Coach Vernell Ross and Ms. Mildred Franklin, just to name a few), I was able to complete high school and graduate from college.  I, too, want to help young people find their voice and talents when circumstances beyond their control suppress them.  This is why I am an educator.”

As a former record-breaking athlete in track, football, and basketball, and an inductee into the Havana Northside High School Hall of Fame, Hinson is an advocate and believer in the powerful role athletics can play when it comes to keeping young people motivated and on track. He is a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association Board of Directors, the vice-chair of the Havana Little League Baseball Committee, and a sponsor of the Adult Basketball League.

“As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once stated: ‘The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically….Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education,’” said Hinson who also played football at the college level for Florida A&M and Virginia Union Universities.

He added: “Athletics builds that ‘character’ that Dr.  King notes in his quote. Athletics is not just about performance, winning or losing, it is about respect for oneself and others, fairness, grace in defeat, humility in victory, and the virtue of self-discipline.  These traits not only help student athletes perform well on the field or court, but they also help them to become better students and citizens.”

In addition to his efforts to promote educational and athletic success in Gadsden County, Hinson has also been recognized for his passion for promoting family literacy. In 2009, Hinson created Rainbow Educational Services, a non-profit organization designed to provide literacy education options to children and their parents in the Havana and Midway, Fla. communities.

Throughout the year, Rainbow Educational Services provides opportunities for residents to attend educational workshops and receive access to free novels and motivational and children’s books. The organization also sponsors school supply giveaways for children in need.

“Education and literacy are more than words on paper.  They are catalysts for social and academic qualities in individuals,” said Hinson about his advocacy for literacy.  “It is extremely important to be equipped with literacy for the 21st century.  Technology connects us with millions of people across the globe, while at the same time allowing us to earn degrees or workforce ready certificates without ever having to step a foot into a brick and mortar classroom.  Because we are living in a fast-pace, high-demanding society, education allows us to compete and be innovative and create our own paths to success.”

As a husband and father, Hinson is fervent about ensuring the wellbeing of Gadsden County families. He works to improve affordable housing options and job opportunities as a member of Gadsden County’s Affordable Housing and Planning and Zoning Committees, and is a member of the Havana Senior Citizens Executive Board.

In addition, he is an active member of the Kiwanis Club – which performs community service projects such as Christmas events, library drives, and scholarship programs to benefit local children.

“I believe in servant leadership, and it has been my goal since I was a child to become a leader in my community,” Hinson said. “This is why I volunteer, work and contribute to my hometown.  I believe it is God’s will. 1 Peter 4:10 sums up my service:  ‘As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.’”

By Kanya Stewart

Outlook Staff Writer

After having two loved ones – a brother and cousin – murdered in cold blood, most people would have fallen into depression, given up hope or fought with urges to retaliate, but Jacksonville, Fla.’s Gernardo “G” Abrams decided to take another route.

In 2006, the rapper, writer and producer created the non-profit organization Stop the Violence Use Your Talents, Inc. based on a song he wrote and a memorial event held for his brother that bore the same name.  Abrams said his goal with the organization is to use his experiences with violent crimes as inspiration to young people, helping them to find creative ways to avoid and prevent “senseless acts” of inner-city violence in Duval County.

“This is a movement,” Abrams said. “We’ve outreached to community and political leaders, community activist, and celebrities. We’re working with these youth to be able to make a difference and be a positive light within our community and spreading it (the positive light) out.”

Through music recordings, documentaries, talent showcases, community activities, crime victim memorials, and a weekly television show on public access cable, Abrams encourages youth and their families to channel their emotions into their talents. From dancing to Karate, Abrams provides venues both online and around the Jacksonville area for people to display their talents with the hope that they will put their energies into honing their crafts instead of participating in or becoming victims to violence.

“If we would work at being more productive, more positive and finding the gifts and the talents that God has given us all, then we would be better and productive citizens. And, we would not give into the negativism that surrounds us,” said Abrams. He added that he believes the entertainment industry has a duty to portray more positive images due to the profound influence entertainers have on inner-city communities.

Whether rapping or hosting his television show, Abrams always takes time to educate the community about the effects of violent crimes and encourages his audiences to participate in community activism, mentoring, and the political process.

Although Abram’s efforts have touched the lives of many young people, he says his organization lacks one thing– sponsors.

Every year Abrams embarks on a national tour to outreach to other inner-city communities, but this year he has had to push the tour back until April of next year due to a lack of sponsorship. But according to Abrams, his work has not gone unnoticed. His message of non-violence has gone as far as Miami, Atlanta, Kentucky, California, Jamaica, Canada, Europe and Africa.

 “I see a difference being made,” said Abrams reflecting on the years of time and energy he has invested into the Stop the Violence Use Your Talents organization. “I get individuals that write me. There are some prisons that have our (“Stop the Violence”) documentary and song. I know that (prison) is a time in those individuals’ lives, as they reenter society, that they need that development and positivity. And when they see the documentary they are aware and they write me and they want to be a part of the movement.”

Like Abrams, other entertainers around the nation have decided to take a stand against violence in our communities.  Thousands of miles away in Los Angeles, Calif., musician Rico Sweatt – also know in the music industry as Chili Most – has a mission similar to Abrams.

Sweatt, who grew up during the Civil Rights Movement, uses his music to embody the non-violent principles of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

With songs like “Stop The Violence” and “Fight For Your Rights,” Sweatt said he endeavors to use the influence that music has on young people to “raise awareness to the senseless killings that are going on with our young men and women in this country and inspire them to reach their full potential.”

To help shed light on the senseless killings that occur throughout California and around the nation, Sweatt has created the Stop the Violence Wall. The Wall is an online forum for families and victims of violent crimes to share their experiences, trials, and triumphs.

“God has led me to this point to where I have to take a stand in my music,” said Sweatt, who also uses his music to shed light on social issues such as voter suppression, low unemployment rates, the rise in foreclosures, and tuition rate increases.“We are calling out all nationalities to stop the violence and stop killing one another.”

Sweatt says he has worked with organizations such as the  National People’s Movement, People’s Movement For Change, 100 Black Men, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP),  and the National Action Network to not only promote non-violence, but to also start a movement of healing humanity.

Sweatt believes that through his music, such as his album “N Love With Love,” couples, families, and friends can be encouraged to work on healing their personal relationships. He advised that healed relationships are the foundation of building healthy, non-violent communities.

According to Sweatt one of the most essentials weapons that can be used to combat violence is preserving our right to vote.

“The main message is to vote,” he said. “I think once we can plant that seed in our young people  about voting, and once the message is spread across the country, we can become more conscious.”

For more information on Stop the Violence Use Your Talents, Inc. visit: www.stvuyt.com and for more information on Rico “Chili Most’’ Sweatt visit: www.chilimostmusic.com.

By Kanya Stewart

Outlook Staff Writer

“A family that prays together, stays together,” may be one of the most popular clichés in the African-American community. But for the Colson family, it is more than a catchy phrase. For the last 50 years, prayer and unwavering faith in God have been the glue that has held their family together through the ups and downs of life – including surviving cancer, overcoming a tough economy and managing long distance relationships.

Natives of Tallahassee, Welbert Colson Jr. and Lou Cherrie Colson have successfully raised three children (Valerie, Welbert, III and Jermaine) and 11 grandchildren through their guiding principles of love, honesty and faithfulness.

“God is the answer to everything; no matter what happens,” explained Mrs. Colson when asked about the key to her family’s success. “You have to stay focused on God. And you have to have prayer, faith and understanding. You have to instill God and values into them (your family), let them know about the Word, tell them what God says.”

The Colson family’s history is one that seems to be both rich and divinely guided since the very beginning. Although raised just miles apart near the Buck Lake area, a former slave plantation of Tallahassee, Mr. and Mrs. Colson did not officially meet until they were introduced to one another in Philadelphia.

As a young adult, Mr. Colson moved to Philadelphia to pursue a career as a brick mason. In August of 1962, Mr. Colson’s sister introduced him to Mrs. Colson, who at the time was working as a nurse and cosmetologist in Philadelphia. Four months later – in December of 1962 – the couple was married. They describe their courtship as one that was “a short transition with a lot of love.”

As a result of the deep love they felt for one another, the Colsons were determined to make their marriage last and relied on God to keep them strong no matter what they would face.

“We took our marriage vows very seriously,’’ said Mr. Colson, a cancer survivor. “Every time we’d have an argument or a little spat, we’d go back to our marriage vows. We promised God that we would be married and we took his Word and lived by his Word and that kept us together. In marriage, you are going to have some ups and downs, but if you know where to turn to, you know how to keep it together. Nothing could come between us.”

In the 1970s, the Colsons made a decision to return to Tallahassee to raise their children. Their decision was influenced by their children’s persistence. While in Philadelphia they would send their children to visit their grandparents on a farm to ensure that they were exposed to nature and life outside of the city. The children enjoyed their visits so much that they encouraged their parents to move back to Florida.

When they arrived in Florida, as a special gift to Mrs. Colson, Mr. Colson built their new family home (in the Bradfordville Road area) brick-by-brick.

After settling into their new home, the Colsons faced the hardships of Florida’s job market and an increased cost of living. To ensure his family’s survival and financial stability, Mr. Colson made a decision to leave his family temporarily and go North where the job market was more stable.

But the Colsons did not let the thousands of physical miles between them keep them apart mentally, emotionally or spiritually. To ensure the family remained close, Mr. Colson would record messages for his family on cassette tape and send them South.

Mrs. Colson and the children would follow suit. In addition, every two to three months Mr. Colson would come home to visit his family. They continued this unique way of communicating and raising their children until Mr. Colson moved back home full-time.

Since their return to Florida, the Colsons have been great contributors to the Tallahassee community as entrepreneurs and community activists. Mr. Colson is the former owner and operator of Colson’s Masonry and currently runs a farm –  known especially for its production of watermelon, and Mrs. Colson has owned and operated Today’s Hair Design on Fourth Avenue for the last 15 years.

In addition, the Colsons are actively involved in promoting the revitalization of historic Frenchtown and have also been instrumental in protesting against cell phone company’s placing towers in areas that would produce harmful radiation, which can impact the health of families and elderly members of the community or cause cancer.

“We are passionate about the neighborhood. We just try to make sure things are going right in the neighborhood, and try to prevent any wrongdoing,” Mrs. Colson said.

Today, the Colsons say they are most passionate about the plight of youth in the Tallahassee community. Their goal is to serve as role models to young people by showing them that they can overcome any obstacle with God’s help. They are also passionate about educating young people about the value of entrepreneurship and the history of entrepreneurship and landownership in the Black community.

 In addition, the couple strives to encourage young people to take interest in the environment, nature, and farming. The Colsons are also adamant about teaching families and children about eating healthier and buying fresh produce to help prevent the intake of harmful chemicals that can cause cancer and other health problems.

“We are trying to work with the young people now and encourage them,” Mr. Colson said. “We have to let them know they are somebody, they are our tomorrow. We want kids to see life more broad – instead of being so closed up – so they can see more clearly; so their mindset will change and God can use their minds.”

By Ronald W. Holmes, Ph.D. Education

Editor/Vice President

Just as the general public relies on the medical research of doctors to address the illnesses in society such as cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer, the general public should consistently rely on the empirical research of educators with advanced doctoral degrees to address the issues in education such as student achievement and graduation rates.  In fact, the product of a quality, education-related doctoral dissertation approved by an accredited university can provide solutions to the many problems plaguing public K-20 education.

On Friday, April 27, The Holmes Education Post Talk Show on WTAL 1450AM, began a segment of interviewing individuals who have successfully fulfilled all the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) regarding their dissertation work. Our first guest was Dr. Linda Turner Fortenberry who earned a Ph.D. from Iowa State University and did a comparative dissertation study entitled “An Examination of School Climate as It Relates to Classified Staff.” An excerpt of the interview with Fortenberry follows:

Q: Graduate students write dissertations for different reasons but only 50 percent successfully complete the process. What motivated you to complete a doctoral degree?

A: I had reached a point in my professional career where I had an unquenchable thirst for merging my practical administrative experiences with sound, theoretical knowledge. As an elementary school principal, I was intrigued with the relationship of teacher expectations and student achievement.  I was ready to accelerate to the next level of understanding related to student achievement and the role of the principal as instructional leader, particularly in large, urban settings.  Additionally, my school board and the superintendent identified me for potential upper level management and recommended me as a fellow to Iowa State University’s doctoral program in Educational Leadership.

Q: Many students have problems in selecting a researchable topic. How did you select your dissertation topic?

A: The pathway to the selecting of my topic was circuitous.  A topic on school climate was not my first preference, but as a graduate assistant, you quickly learn that your personal preferences are not the priority of the day.  The topic selected was directly linked with a project Iowa State was implementing in the Warsaw, Indiana school district.  As a part of my data gathering for the project, I became immersed and fascinated by the relationship of the school board with the classified staff and the subsequent impact on school climate.  Additionally, there had been no significant data analysis on the impact of school board relations with the classified staff and ultimately, the overall school climate.

Q: While graduate students quite often experience challenges forming a dissertation committee, how did you select your dissertation committee?

A: My major professor and department chair, Dr. Jim Sweeney, chaired my committee. Together, we selected the remaining five members of my committee.  Actually, he selected the committee members.  I agreed with his selections. Two of the committee members were leaders of the Educational Leadership Department and renowned researchers; another member was from the Statistics Department; another from the College of Engineering; and another from Higher Education.  I had a very strong, but supportive committee. Due to the nature of the university structure at that time, my committee was all male and predominantly white.  As an African-American woman, there was an added measure of focus and scrutiny on the progress and quality of my study and the committee’s subsequent decision.

Q: While best practices are essential for improving public education, what was the significance of your dissertation study?

A: School support staff (e.g. guidance counselors, social workers, school psychologists, paraprofessionals, bus drivers and other building support staff) can play an important role in ensuring students are learning in an environment that is both physically and emotionally safe.  The findings of this study provided school boards, district and school site administrators with definitive data to help them understand how their behavior can contribute to a supportive school climate among the support staff. As a result, my dissertation was nominated and ultimately selected for the Jordan Larson Dissertation Award at Iowa State University in 1991.

Q: In the U.S., there are only three percent of people who hold a Ph.D. What challenges did you encounter in completing your dissertation? 

A: There were many challenges. For example, time management was my biggest challenge. The doctoral candidate must make a commitment to complete the study. If possible, try to devote full-time to your research without working.  I was blessed to receive a year’s paid sabbatical leave.  However, I had to take another year’s leave without pay to complete my residency requirements. A second challenge was finances. Even though I received a full doctoral fellowship for my studies, there were other costs that had to be factored into the budget (i.e. travel expenses, technical support, clerical work, car rentals, winter clothing, consultant fees, additional lodging, etc.).

A third challenge was understanding advanced statistics and measurement. Many students, particularly education majors, allow the statistics courses to stop them from reaching their goal.  You can do this! Get a tutor early and schedule meetings with your tutor two to three times a week. If possible, retake or review the basic tenets from high school Algebra I, II, Geometry, Calculus and Trigonometry before you take your first statistics class. Get a teacher’s manual and workbook from the textbook companies. Work through these. Use your measurement text to help you understand the mathematical concepts. These are your fundamentals. It is assumed that you have this foundation. You must grasp these essentials if you are to move forward. You can do this!

Q:  What tips can you offer to students for completing a dissertation?

A: I advise you to do it! There is no better time than the present.  Believe in yourself.  No one can defeat you, but you. Surround yourself with positive people at school, on the job and in your family. You don’t need any naysayers or discouragers. Know the players. Be a team player. Support your colleagues.  You are a cohort group. There is no quota for the number of doctorates that will be awarded from your department or university. There is no need to fight each other.  Support each other. Celebrate each other’s successes.  Give support to colleagues needing reasonable assistance.  Beware of “users” and “deadweights.”  Remove yourself from these people.  They are not there to help.  They may even bring you down with them.  Pray for discernment to know the difference. Begin with the end in mind. This is one of Stephen Covey’s principles. You need a timeline for completing your degree. Otherwise, you will be there forever, or worse, be an ABD (All But Dissertation).  It may not be wise to broadcast or dictate your completion date to your committee, but you should have an ending date in mind.  I set a June date for my defense.  I didn’t make June, but I did finish in August.  Close enough.  Know where you are going and how long it should take you to get there.  Stay focused!

As U.S. public schools seek ways to improve their organizational climate, they should look to the valuable research found in dissertations.  We sincerely thank Dr. Linda Fortenberry for sharing her dissertation experience, knowledge and expertise as an avenue to improve public education. If you would like to be considered a guest on the talk show, please submit your name, email address, telephone number and a copy of your doctoral dissertation to rwh@theholmeseducationpost.com.

Dr. Ronald Holmes is the author of two books, Education Questions to be Answered and Current Issues and Answers in Education.  He is the President of The Holmes Education Post, an education focused internet newspaper. Holmes is the National Superintendent of Education for the National Save the Family Now Movement, Inc., a former teacher, school administrator, and district superintendent and can be reached at the following email address: rwh@theholmeseducationpost.com.

By Elizabeth Bettendorf, Barry Ray and Jeffery Seay

Florida State University

Office of Communications

An esteemed scientist and writer, a key official in the Obama administration, and one of the nation’s most popular sports broadcasters each offered congratulations and words of advice to new Florida State University graduates during three commencement ceremonies spread over two days on April 27-28.

Leading evolutionary biologist and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Edward O. “E.O.” Wilson, U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade Francisco J. Sánchez and ESPN personality Lee Corso each spoke to a packed house at the Tallahassee-Leon County Civic Center. About 4,000 of 6,200 graduating Florida State students participated in the ceremonies.

Corso, a Miami native and two-time FSU graduate, spoke at the third and final commencement on Saturday afternoon after receiving an honorary Florida State doctorate in Humane Letters. The degree was presented by Florida State President Eric J. Barron.

Corso then addressed the graduates of the colleges of Business, Education, Music and Social Work. He discussed the importance of relationships, character, loyalty, family and perseverance much like a coach would give a pep talk to his team.

“Building good, solid relationships is one of the most important keys in life,” Corso said. “Don’t let social networks take the place of face-to-face relationships.”

He compared relationships to a cookie jar and encouraged the graduates to give back as much as they take so the proverbial jar won’t wind up empty.

Corso said good teams are built with people of character, not “characters” who display no respect. Another crucial ingredient is loyalty.

“You never get rid of a good, loyal, hardworking person,” he said. “When you find someone with loyalty, you keep him.”

Corso underscored the importance of family.

“You can’t do enough for your family,” he said. “When you think you’ve done enough, do more.”

He reminded graduates that success isn’t defined by never failing, but in rising every time they fail.

As a defensive football player at Florida State, Corso set the team record for most career interceptions with 14, a record that stood for more than two decades.

As a football analyst for ESPN, Corso has been featured on ESPN’s “College GameDay” since it began in the late 1980s. He is legendary for his quirky sense of humor and for ending every show by wearing the headgear of the school mascot for the team he predicts will win. During the off-season, Corso serves as director of business development for a Florida-based pencil manufacturing company.

Sánchez spoke Saturday morning to graduates of the colleges of Communication and Information, Engineering, The Graduate School (materials science graduates only), Motion Picture Arts, Social Sciences and Public Policy; and Visual Arts, Theatre and Dance.

Sharing stories from his own background in which taking a chance had changed his life for the better, Sánchez recommended that the new graduates do the same.

“I urge you to take risks and follow your passion because it’s the only way you’ll satisfy yourself; and learn skills that give you the best chance to succeed when you do take those risks,” he said. “And as you think of success, find ways to make a difference in the world.”

A native of Florida, Sánchez grew up in Tampa’s historic Ybor City. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Florida State in 1982, and in 1986 he earned his J.D. from Florida State’s College of Law. He also earned a Master of Public Policy from Harvard in 1993.

In 2009, President Obama nominated Sánchez to be Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade. As the head of the International Trade Administration, he oversees the development of U.S. trade policy, promotes American companies worldwide, strengthens the country’s competitiveness and administers U.S. trade laws.

To the graduates sitting before him, Sánchez stated, “Now it’s time for you to write your own stories. Always remember that you are the authors of your destiny, and can shape the next chapter of your lives in any way that you want.”

On Friday evening, leading evolutionary biologist Wilson offered gentle words of inspiration — and a little nudge to pursue a calling of “discovery” — when he delivered the kickoff commencement address.

“In this country, the sciences and the humanities rely on the knowledge and skill you have mastered,” Wilson said in a quiet voice filled with conviction.

A two-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize for general nonfiction and a renowned researcher, theorist and naturalist, Wilson addressed graduates of the colleges of Arts and Sciences, Criminology and Criminal Justice, and Human Sciences.

“Remember that in entrepreneurship and science, every problem is an opportunity,” Wilson said. “Have the confidence to discover, find, learn, teach and excel.”

A longtime Harvard professor and author of more than 20 books — many considered scientific masterpieces as well as influential popular works — Wilson also received an honorary Florida State doctorate in Humane Letters. The degree was presented by Barron.

Wilson, 82, is considered one of the world’s most prominent conservation biologists — a visionary and critical thinker who sees problems in terms of the “big picture” and argues for scientific approaches to solving them. His contributions to science have been recognized globally, and he is considered the chief inventor of the field of sociobiology, the study of the biological basis and nature of social behavior. Wilson’s biological specialty is myrmecology, the study of ants, and he is thought to be the premier expert on the tiny insects.

Wilson wished the students the best — and perhaps most intangible gift of all: “Someday, at the conclusion of a long life, I wish you a calling of satisfaction,” he said. “And you will have a life well-lived.”

“The death of Robert Champion is a tragedy.” These are the words of Florida A&M University student Reamonn Soto. His words echo the sentiment of many students, professors, administrators and alumni who have said that not only is losing another Rattler “painful,” but so is learning the fate of FAMU students who have now been charged in the “homicide by hazing” case.

“It is painful to watch Robert Champion’s parents endure this tragedy, as it is now painful to watch the parents of the defendants do the same,” said Vanessa Woodard Byers, a Miami-Dade County educator and president of the Miami-Dade Chapter of the FAMU National Alumni Association. “I pray for all of the families involved and I pray for my university.”

Authorities ruled that Champion had been beaten to death as a result of hazing that took place on a FAMU “Marching 100” band transport bus in Orlando last November. He was 26-years old at the time of his death and was one of the band’s drum majors.

On May 2, charges and arrest warrants were announced regarding Champion’s death. The thirteen individuals identified as suspects in the case avoided being charged with murder, but were found to have committed a mixture of first and third-degree felonies and misdemeanors for acts that resulted in Champion suffering from “blunt force trauma causing hemorrhagic shock due to soft tissue hemorrhages.”Eleven of the 13 defendants are being charged with one count of hazing resulting in death, which is a third-degree felony and two counts of hazing, a first-degree misdemeanor. The remaining two defendants are charged with a first degree misdemeanor of hazing.At the time of publication, it had been reported that all 11 of the defendants charged with felonies had turned themselves in.

Arrest records have revealed that at least two of the defendants have previous history with assault or battery charges including Aaron Golson, 19, who was charged with hazing and felony battery in a separate incident involving a female member of the band last year.Another defendant, Caleb Jackson, 23, also has a history with crimes involving assault. He is currently on probation for participating in the beating of a Tallahassee Community College student in 2009, and was denied bail as a result.

By May 6, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement had released the names of the other nine individuals who turned themselves in. They are: Lasherry Codner, Ryan Dean, Jonathan Boyce, Jessie Baskin, Harold Finley, Bryan Jones, Benjamin McNamee, Shawn Turner and Rikki Wills. Most of the defendants had posted bail by May 7 and FDLE has not released any information regarding the names or status of the two defendants who were only charged with misdemeanors.

Champion’s mother, Pam Champion, has spoken out in dissatisfaction of the announced charges, stating that she believed the charges should have been more severe. State Attorney Lawson Lamar said that the charges were limited based on evidence and testimony.

“Testimony obtained to date does not contain the elements of murder. We do not have a blow or shot or knife thrust that killed Mr. Champion,” Lamar said.

Although to some, the charges may seem “light,” Lamar said that some of the defendants, if convicted, could face punishment to the full extent of the law – up to six years in prison, especially those with previous records.

The two defendants that were not charged with felonies could face up to one year in prison, according to authorities.In addition to expressing her disappointment in the charges, during a series of interviews with the media last week, Mrs. Champion and her husband have also called for the “Marching 100” to be disbanded until the organization can “clean house.”

Although seeing their fellow students charged with violent crimes is disheartening, some FAMU students see it as chance to evoke change. “Clearly this requires accountability and demands justice from those responsible. I hope our community can learn from this.” said Soto, a physics student from Tallahassee.

Meanwhile FAMU officials say they will continue to work to eliminate all forms of hazing on campus. Thus far, the university has suspended the band indefinitely until further review, and suspended induction activities for campus organizations and clubs until the Fall semester. Students are also now required to attend anti-hazing forums.

FAMU Board of Trustees Chairman Soloman Badger and President James Ammons issued the following joint statement.“We are vigorously working to eradicate hazing from FAMU and doing everything within our power to ensure an incident like this never happens again. Our hearts and our prayers are with the Champion family and the extended FAMU family as we all continue to deal with this tragedy.”

As the university continues to investigate the “Marching 100,” Dr. Julian White – the band’s suspended director – has requested that he be reinstated now that arrests have been made in the case. However, his request has been questioned by administrators and the media, as a result of information being revealed that some of the students on the bus during Champion’s hazing were not enrolled at the university, which may be a violation of school policies.

Outlook staff writer Nathon Green contributed to this story.

FAMU BAND DIRECTOR RETIRES

Special to the Outlook

Updated May 8, 2012

Gov.’s Task Force to travel across state

By Kanya Stewart/Outlook Staff Writer
On June 12, the people of Sanford, Fla. and surrounding areas will have the opportunity to express their concerns about how protected and safe they feel as residents of the State of Florida in regards to its justifiable use of force laws. Sanford, will be the first official meeting that will allow public comment to be presented to Gov. Rick Scott’s Task Force on Citizen Safety and Protection, which was formed in light of the Feb. 26 death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin, who was killed by Sanford neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman. Zimmerman alleges he was “standing his ground” under Chapter 776 of Florida Law.

The 19-member task force, which has been assigned to review Chapter 776 for its intent and implementation, met on May 1 at the Florida Department of Transportation Headquarters in Tallahassee to outline its mission, scope and guidelines during an administrative meeting.

The panel also scheduled additional meetings that will take them around the state to hear the concerns of Floridians from all walks of life. During the meetings, they will also hear expert testimony regarding citizen safety and protection laws, as well as conduct research on how the law has been used or misused and how it has impacted the State as a whole, as well as its visitors.

Led by Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll and the Rev. R.B. Holmes Jr., pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, the panel has vowed to complete its assignment in an “unbiased” and “transparent” manner and to avoid letting emotional or personal agendas interfere with the information and recommendations they will report to Scott and the Legislature by the start of the March 2013 legislative session .

“I highly encourage all members of the Citizen Safety and Protection Task Force to approach their duties with an unbiased mind,” said Carroll, explaining that the review on Chapter 776 will remain separate from the Martin/Zimmerman case and will not be influenced by its outcome. “We all must be open and receptive to the input from Floridians, presenters and statistical data before we make any assessment. I also ask members to refrain from emotional influences, so that we can reach a go do supportive decisions that will benefit residents and safety in Florida.”

Holmes agreed with Carroll’s sentiments.“I think that we have a great opportunity to do (some) good,” he said. “I think we need to make sure that we do not allow emotions to rule the day. I think the data and information will lead us to doing the right thing.”

Although the task force has barely begun to delve into the work that lies ahead, controversy about the makeup of the panel has already begun to stir up. Concerns have been expressed by the public and the media that some members of the task force, including Carroll, voted in favor of the 2005 “Stand Your Ground” law, which will be reviewed by the task force as a part of Chapter 776.

But task force members like Rep. Dennis Baxley, R-Ocala, who sponsored the 2005 law, say they are open to hear and learn about how the law has impacted Floridians.“We’re grateful to be a part of the discussion,” Baxley said. “Obviously I have been involved in some of these issues for a number of years and I am excited about what information we will learn.”

After its June 12 meeting, which will include a presentation by Sen. Chris Smith, D- Fort Lauderdale, who formed his own task force on justifiable use of force laws, the panel will meet in  Desoto County on July 10 and Sept. 12-13 in  Miami (Martin’s hometown) and Palm Beach County.  In October and November, the group plans to meet in Pensacola and Jacksonville, respectively.  The panel will announce additional meetings as they are scheduled.
Find out more information about the task force at: www.flgov.com/citizensafety.The public can view all meetings through a live stream or archived video on: www.TheFloridaChannel.org.

To review Chapter 776 of Florida’s state laws visit: http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0776/0776ContentsIndex.html.

Photo courtesy of  Executive Office of Gov. Rick Scott.