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 | The Andrew Young Center Celebrates Black History Month |
| Morehouse College’s mission is to assume a special responsibility for teaching the history and culture of Black people, year-round. In this February issue of the Andrew Young Center newsletter we honor Black History Month by taking a global perspective on the ties that bind us beyond the borders of Morehouse College, both in the United States and globally. This issue highlights some of the students, faculty, and community members who partner with or participate in the programming of the Andrew Young Center. This issue highlights the 2025 AYCGL Faculty Fellows, AYCGL Scholar of Distinction Kenneth Ugo, ‘26, and the Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program M.L. King Day of Service. This issue also shares a concise history of the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership. Finally, the newsletter shares upcoming events in the Center.
The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership seeks to extend the legacy of Ambassador Young and expand the footprint of Morehouse into the community and the world. The Center is home to programs designed to inspire and prepare the men of Morehouse to create and implement solutions to social justice challenges and to become global leaders prepared to advance social, economic, and educational equality in the U.S. and abroad. |
| | 2025 Andrew Young Faculty Fellows |
| The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership is pleased to announce that, during the 2025 calendar year, seven Morehouse College faculty members will implement projects that advance social justice and the development of leadership among students, faculty, and community members. The Andrew Young Faculty Fellows Program supports outstanding faculty engaged in research, innovation in education, grassroots organizing, writing and creating original art, film or other projects that engage and inform, generate conversation, change policy or practice, and catalyze change. The faculty and projects funded for the 2025 calendar year are: |
| | Emani Saucier, MFA The Black History in Extended Reality Project (BHXR) aims to bring to life stories of the African diaspora through immersive multimedia experiences in virtual and augmented reality (collectively known as extended reality or XR). The first phase of this project, supported by the Andrew Young Faculty Fellowship, will begin with technical training and culminate in the production of a social justice–oriented XR video created by student storytellers.
Emani Rashad Saucier, MFA, is a dynamic film director, servant-leader, and educator passionate about empowering storytellers to find their voices and share their narratives. He excels at capturing compelling stories and leveraging his diverse skill-set to transform them into impactful media experiences. |
| Rodney Walker, MA The B.O.L.D. Leadership Camp & Competition is a restorative justice initiative for crisis-impacted adults. The goal is to teach them the entrepreneurial mindset, and to facilitate the creation of a life business plan that strategically and comprehensively outlines their road to recovery. To achieve this goal, these adults will be encouraged to invest in this learning and recovery by centering their own program around an orated “life-plan” competition, where they will have a chance to win prize money, media promotion, and other incentives.
Rodney Walker, a Chicago native, is an author and educator, specializing in trauma-informed mentorship and social justice leadership. He is currently a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Leadership Studies Program at Morehouse College. He is also the author of an acclaimed educational memoir, titled A New Day One: Trauma, Grace, and a Young Man’s Journey from Foster Care to Harvard, as well as a professional development book entitled Wounds You Can Not See. |
| Andrew Douglas, PhD On Friday, April 25, 2025, students in Dr. Douglas's political theories of money class will host a daylong workshop on “Community Money and the Black University.” The event, which is open to all students and staff, will feature several scholars and activists who work on heterodox finance, public banking, and the idea of the solidarity economy. The specific goal of the session is to explore the potential of an HBCU-issued complementary currency that can be used to spearhead more locally and democratically accountable investment on and around HBCU campuses. Andrew J. Douglas, a professor of political science and chair of the department, has taught at Morehouse since 2011. He is the author of three books: Prophet of Discontent: Martin Luther King Jr. and the Critique of Racial Capitalism, coauthored with Jared Loggins; W.E.B. Du Bois and the Critique of the Competitive Society; and In the Spirit of Critique: Thinking Politically in the Dialectical Tradition. Articles and other writings have appeared in, among other outlets, The Du Bois Review, The C.L.R. James Journal, Constellations, Philosophy and Social Criticism, Contemporary Political Theory, The Review of Politics, Boston Review, Academe, Money on the Left, and Political Theory. |
| Matthew Platt, PhD The project examines the relationship between black representation and black health outcomes. Using a new dataset that combines individual and district-level health data with member-level data on bill sponsorship, this project will be able to explore a chain from political and policy decisions to social determinants of health to individual and collective black health.
Matthew Platt is an associate professor of political science at Morehouse College. His research focuses primarily on how the behavior of black members of Congress furthers a black policy agenda. At Morehouse he teaches courses on research methods, American politics, congress, black politics, and policy analysis. |
| Dominique Thomas, PhD The project From Sankofa to Afrofuturism: Afrofuturist Liberation Schools will pilot freedom schools inspired by the Mississippi Freedom Schools during the 1960s. Students will conduct community-based participatory action research projects while learning topics such as participatory democracy, solidarity economies, restorative justice, political education, and consciousness raising.
Dominique Thomas is an adjunct professor in psychology. He attained his B.A. in psychology from Morehouse College and his M.A and Ph.D. in community psychology from Georgia State University. His research and teaching interests are in African consciousness in the diaspora, specifically Afrofuturism, socialization, identity, and resistance to racist and colonial structures of imperialism. |
| Dwayne Joseph, PhD This project addresses homelessness the lens of data analysis and computational modeling. By exploring population in/out flows and comparing different demographics, the project will identify key factors contributing to homelessness and uncover disparities in how different groups experience this challenge. The findings of this project will also be used as a model to develop a social justice module that will be implemented into a Robotics course entitled “Computational Linear Algebra” as part of the Distributive Teaching Collaborative (DTC). Dr. Dwayne Joseph is an Assistant Professor for Physics and Dual Degree Engineering program at Morehouse College. As one of the two professors that are a part of the Dual Degree Engineering Program, Dr. Joseph is passionate about creating, disseminating, and evaluating courses that will revolutionize students’ first exposure to mathematics and programming through the lens of modern robotics. |
| Hye Ryeon Jang, PhD Since China’s rise as a global economic powerhouse, trade with sub-Saharan African countries has expanded significantly, raising important debates about the impact of China’s neo-mercantilist trade policies. Central to these discussions is whether this trade dynamic contributes to resource exploitation and hinders sustainable development in the region. This student co-authored research project adopts an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating spatial network analysis, structural equation modeling (SEM), and case studies to explore China’s global economic strategy and its broader implications for development and governance in sub-Saharan Africa. Hye Ryeon Jang is an assistant professor of political science at Morehouse College. Her research focuses on international security, energy politics, maritime conflict, and data science, employing geographic information system (GIS) analysis and natural language processing (NLP) with a regional emphasis on China and East Asia. She earned her Ph.D. in political science from the University of Florida. |
| | AYCGL Scholar of Distinction |
| This recurring feature of the Andrew Young Center newsletter highlights an outstanding Morehouse scholar who exemplifies excellence through character, academic achievement, and service to the community.
This issue of the AYCGL newsletter features Oprah Winfrey scholar Kenneth Ugo, ‘26. |
|  | Kenneth Ugo is a junior Business Administration major who plans to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and obtain a Master’s in Accounting. Kenneth plans build the expertise necessary for making a meaningful impact. Kenneth hopes to educate minority groups about financial literacy and empower underrepresented communities by providing accessible resources, mentorship programs, and tailored workshops. According to Kenneth, “financial empowerment is a key to breaking cycles of poverty and I intend to use my skills to address the unique challenges these groups face. By applying my academic foundation to real-world challenges, I hope to uplift individuals, inspire others to give back, and create a ripple effect of progress within our communities.”
Kenneth’s commitment to serving the community, both on the Morehouse campus and beyond, is evident in so much that he does. Kenneth fulfills his Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program service requirement at @Promise Center, an initiative of the Atlanta Police Foundation, by working with middle and high school students on a weekly basis, mentoring, tutoring and serving as a powerful role model for children who have had contact with the criminal legal system.
In addition to this service, Kenny engaged in three recent initiatives that enhance the Morehouse community. |
| | The Chill Out Community Service Event involved Morehouse students writing encouraging letters to students at the Atlanta Metropolitan @Promise Center. As a token of appreciation for their participation, Morehouse students were treated to free ice cream. Kenneth and his partners shared approximately 50 letters with @Promise students. Kenneth and the Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program partnered with SGA, CASA, Glaciers Ice, and the Bonner Program to make this event happen. |
|  | The Freshman Supply Drop was a community-driven initiative designed to support Morehouse freshmen during midterms and after a recent storm. With the help of volunteers from the Psychology Club and DHRE, over 700 snack bags and care packages were distributed directly to the dorm rooms of Morehouse freshmen. These packages included essentials, snacks, and positive affirmations to provide encouragement and reinforce the importance of mental health and community. The event also served as an opportunity to check in on freshman students’ mental health, discuss campus resources, and strengthen the bond of brotherhood. The freshmen were deeply impacted and expressed heartfelt appreciation for the care and support they received during this crucial time in their college journey. |
|  | Oprah Winfrey scholars Kenny Ugo and Enoch Omotayo — Freshman Supply Drop |
| The Five Wells initiative highlighted the core attributes that define a Morehouse leader: Well-Read, Well-Spoken, Well-Traveled, Well-Dressed, and Well-Balanced. Rooted in the institution's commitment to cultivating excellence, these five pillars represent the holistic development of character, intellect, and leadership that Morehouse men embody. In anticipation of Morehouse's Founders Week, a series of events celebrated and showcased the Five Wells. This initiative is designed to engage students, faculty, and the community in activities that promote personal growth, community impact, and the legacy of Morehouse College. Each "Well" focuses on an essential aspect of leadership development, ensuring Morehouse students not only honor the past but also prepare to lead in the future. |
| | The AYCGL & OWSP Partner with M.L. King, Jr. Center for MLK Day of ServiceJanuary 20, 2025 |
| For the fourth year, on Monday, January 20, 2025, the Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program and Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership partnered with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change to engage in a day of service on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. Oprah Winfrey and Social Justice scholars served as hosts at the annual M.L. King Commemorative Service that took place at Ebenezer Baptist Church.
Individuals and teams from corporate and community partners joined the King Center and Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program on the Morehouse College campus to donate and organize donations for our Beloved Community, community members across the city of Atlanta. Morehouse scholars welcomed and registered guests, completed setup and breakdown, and hosted visitors. In addition to the joy of working with others for others, volunteers enjoyed music provided by DJ QueezyG who took volunteers through time with music from the 90’s to the present.
Morehouse College Admissions Office student ambassadors conducted campus tours for visitors providing an opportunity for volunteers to learn the history of Morehouse College and about Dr. King’s time as a student at the College. |
|  |  | | AYCGL Welcomes Ms. Kennedy Nash Administrative Assistant |
|  | The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership is pleased to welcome Ms. Kennedy Nash as its new administrative assistant. Ms. Nash earned her B.A. in Television and Film Production with a minor in Spanish at Indiana University. She previously served as an administrative assistant in the Military Resource Center at Bowie State University.
Ms. Nash is dedicated to supporting the academic community and contributing to the success of the institution by providing excellent administrative support. She is passionate about contributing to innovative educational initiatives and she is eager to further the vision and mission of Morehouse College through her service. She has a lifelong commitment to public service and a passion for international travel. |
| | A History of the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership |
| The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership, originally named the Leadership Center at Morehouse College, was established in 1998 by President Walter E. Massey. Funding raised by Dr. Massey supported establishment of the Center, including funding the Massey Leadership Building and an endowed chair of Leadership Studies. From 1998-2010 Dr. Walter E. Fluker served as the executive director of the Leadership Center. During his tenure, the Leadership Center became home to the interdisciplinary Leadership Studies Program which includes an academic minor, the Coca Cola Leadership Academy, and global learning experiences and study abroad at the college. In 2012 the Leadership Center and Andrew Young Center for International Affairs were integrated and renamed the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership. From 2012-2018 Mr. Julius Coles served as the director of the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership. He previously served as the director of the Andrew Young Center for International Affairs from 1997-2002 and 2010-2012. Since 2019 Dr. Jann Adams has served as the lead director of the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership. |
| | The Leadership Center at Morehouse College The Leadership Center at Morehouse College was the brainchild of Dr. Walter Massey, ninth President of Morehouse (1995-2007), who in 1995 secured a 4-year planning grant from Coca Cola to support establishing a Leadership Center, including a Leadership Lecture Series, which was also supported by an endowment from Bank of America; a Pre-College Leadership Program; and pre-construction activities for a physical facility. That building would become the Massey Leadership Building. Dr. Willis Sheftall, Chair of the Department of Business, and a sub-committee of faculty and alumni convened “to investigate the feasibility of adding an academic, interdisciplinary leadership component to the College curriculum.” Under Dr. Sheftall’s leadership, the Leadership Center created a 5-year strategic plan and secured one-half of the anticipated $12M for what is now the Massey Leadership Building. In 2000, Coca-Cola and Bank of America donated additional funding to endow a Leadership Lecture Series.
From 1998-2010 Dr. Walter Fluker, a theologian and Howard Thurman scholar, served as the executive director of the Leadership Center. From 2004-2010, Dr. Fluker also served as the Coca-Cola Endowed Professor of Leadership Studies. In 2001, the Leadership Center proposed a Leadership Studies Program that would offer an interdisciplinary leadership minor. The program was approved by the faculty in 2002 and specified that the “leadership studies minor will be housed within the LCMC (Leadership Center).” The rationale provided was that the curriculum for the minor would “directly relate to LCMC-wide goals.”
The curriculum developed under the auspices of the Leadership Center was anchored in “the Morehouse Tradition of Ethical Leadership.” The Leadership Center aimed to facilitate “the intellectual and ethical development of individuals for service to society”(1999). The pedagogical justification was that work in the classroom needed to be supplemented with experiential learning opportunities, including study abroad. Between 2002 and 2015, 93 students completed the Leadership Studies minor. Between 2005 and 2012, more than 100 students were sponsored for international travel under the auspices of the Center. |
| The Andrew Young Center for International Affairs In 1997, under the leadership of President Massey, the Andrew Young Center for International Affairs was established at Morehouse College. Mr. Julius E. Coles, a former employee of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and director of the Ralph J. Bunche International Affairs Center at Howard University, served as the director of the Andrew Young Center for International Affairs from 1997 to 2002 and from 2010 to 2012. |
| The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership In 2012, under the leadership of Provost and Senior Vice President Willis Sheftall, the Leadership Center and Andrew Young Center for International Affairs were integrated and renamed the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership (AYCGL). Mr. Coles served as the executive director of the AYCGL from 2012-2018.
Since 2019 Dr. Jann Adams has served as the Lead Director of the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership (AYCGL). In 2019 an interdisciplinary working group of faculty reconfigured the AYCGL to include three complementary institutes in addition to the Leadership Studies Program: The Institute of International and Experiential Learning, the Institute of Social Justice Inquiry & Praxis, and the Institute of Social Justice Research and Policy. Each institute is led by a director who oversees the vision and programming for the area. Major programs of the Center include the Leadership Studies Program, international education, including study abroad, the AYC – Higher Education in Prisons Program, AYCGL Study Tours, the Oprah Winfrey Scholars Program, and the Social Justice Scholars Program. |
| | | February 19, 2025 at 4:00p Sale Hall. Lecture by Dr. Walter Fluker, Scholar-in Residence, Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership. Martin Luther King, Jr. Professor Emeritus of Ethical Leadership, Boston University. “Keep Awake! Howard Thurman on The Run: Creating and Cultivating Inward Spaces of Democratic Freedom of Spirit, Body and Mind”
February 26, 2025 Massey Leadership Building 450 at 3:00pm. Lecture by Dr. Peter McLoughlin, Queen’s University, Belfast. “Hume's role in the Irish Civil Rights Movement and the Peace Process.”
February 27, 2025 Massey Conference Center at 4:30pm. Lecture by Dr. Sinead Younge, Director, Institute for Social Justice Inquiry and Praxis, Andrew Young Center. ‘They Not Like Us’ A Retrospective Analysis of HIV/AIDS in the Black Community.
Spring Break March 7-16, 2025. The Exploration of the African Diaspora in the United Kingdom study abroad program, led by Dr. Sinead Younge, will visit London, Liverpool, and Manchester, U.K. This unique experience will explore the Transatlantic Slave Trade in the British colonies and examine contemporary issues such as the migration of African and Caribbean populations to the UK between 1948 and 1970, known as the Windrush Era. Students will learn about key figures in Black British history and current grassroots organizing and activism in the U.K.
March 28-30, 2025. The AYCGL is pleased to host the 2nd African American History and Heritage Study Tour for Morehouse students and faculty. The study tour will visit Charleston, South Carolina, to visit numerous historic sites, including the International African American Museum, the Avery Research Center at the University of Charleston, and the McLeod Plantation. For more information on this opportunity, please reach out to Ms. Marissa Baham (marissa.baham@morehouse.edu).
March 19 and April 9, 2025: AYCGL Social Justice Leadership Teach-in. This spring AYCGL Scholar-in-Residence, Walter Fluker, Ph.D., will present a two-part Teach-in on ethical leadership. Dr. Fluker is the founding director of the Morehouse College Leadership Center and Leadership Studies Program. This series will take place in the African American Hall of Fame at 4:00 pm on March 19th and April 16th.
May 18 – June 1, 2025. Oprah Winfrey South Africa Leadership Program. Sixteen Oprah Winfrey scholars will participate in a transformative experience in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Pilanesberg, and Cape Town, South Africa. Scholars will learn the extraordinary history of colonization, Apartheid, and revolution in South Africa through visits to historic sites, universities, and organizations documenting the history of Apartheid and preserving the legacy of the fight for freedom and justice in South Africa.
April 1, 2025 Dansby Hall 209 at 11:00am. Lecture by Dr. Puleng Segalo, University of South Africa. “Stitching narratives of Gender Based Violence: Meaning making through embroidery.”
April 9th , 2025 at 4:00p African American Hall of Fame. “Run to the Mountain! Martin Luther King, Jr. on the Run: Creating and Cultivating Democratic Spaces in National and Global Communities of The World House”
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| | |  | The Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership’s video podcast More Conversations was initiated in the fall 2020 and aims to put scholars and subject matter experts in conversation about topics that are important to both the collegiate and broader communities. |
| | | A Note of Gratitude to Our Sponsors |
| The work of the Andrew Young Center for Global Leadership is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, including The Coca Cola Company, Bank of America, Ms. Oprah Winfrey and the Oprah Winfrey Charitable Foundation, Delta Airlines, Gilead Sciences, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, The Julian Grace Foundation, the Cigna Foundation, and the SMASH Foundation. We wish to thank these donors for their sustained support of the AYCGL. |
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