Dear Reader,
I am so thankful that 2025 is here finally. although with politically and socially ominous undertones, Last year, I continued to extend my circle of new friends through my social connections, some of which, I believe, will last a lifetime. Funny! How some people come and go in your life and others come to stay.
Also, having renewed old acquaintances from my childhood, college days, and professional career, I continue to revel in these, along with newly minted achievements. This year I vow to chronicle through this news organ, some of these activities. and hereby continue to help in broadening HBCU scholarly influence.
Thank you for your loyal readership and support.
Sincerely,
Gwen Bethea
Interview with Thalia Norwood, HU Fine Arts Major
on the film “Who’s Next?”
1. What is the basic theme or storyline of the film?
“Who’s Next?” pays tribute to Chadwick A. Boseman’s life and legacy through dance. Howard University acting major, Julius, takes his younger brother, Paris, on a tour of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. As Paris’ interest is sparked by an image of the Black Panther, Julius highlights Boseman’s exceptional career and portrayal of dynamic characters. Specifically, in the films, Marshall, 42, Get on Up, and Black Panther. The tour transitions into dance performances that portray motifs of the films, reflecting Boseman’s impact on the arts and inspiration to young Black artists. Julius hopes this immersive experience will not only inspire Paris, but deepen his appreciation for Boseman’s broader contributions to the creative world.
2. Who are the main characters?
The main characters of “Who’s Next?” are Paris Johnson, Howard University Middle School student, and Julius Shanks II, senior acting major at Howard University, along with 15 talented dancers from the Howard University Dance Department.
3. How did you choose the title for the film?
The title of the film “Who’s Next?” was inspired by an alumni mural displayed at the entrance of the Chadwick A. Boseman College
of Fine Arts. As a freshman at Howard University, I was always stunned when seeing this mural, and told myself that one day I, too, would
be placed on this mural alongside legends like Debbie Allen, Taraji P. Henson, Phylicia Rashad and of course Chadwick A. Boseman. My
ambition and aspiration to make my mark as a Black artist led to the film’s title “Who’s Next?” – a question that asks who will be next to
make a lasting impact in the world of fine arts.
4. How was the film received?
So far, “Who’s Next?” has received great feedback! We had the privilege of hosting a private screening for friends and family, which was also attended by members of the Boseman family. Additionally, we were selected as semi-finalists for the 2024 HBCU First Look Film Festival. In the future, we plan to continue hosting screenings of “Who’s Next?” and submitting the film to other festivals.
5. Who were the other students and teachers involved?
There were several talented students and faculty members involved in the creation of “Who’s Next?”. Though I directed the films, I was joined by Kaylee Faison (Choreographer), Jaida Nutall (Assistant Director), Janelle Acosta (Production Coordinator), Alexus Sears (Casting Director), and Paige Piper(Costume Designer—peers I met as a Freshman dance major at Howard University. Since creating “Who’s Next?” we are now known as Take 6 Productions, a team of six dance majors passionate about showing the world that dancers can do much more than just grace the stage. The film’s production team consists of three Hampton University Alumni, Jack Manning III, Lawrence Watford, and Tiffany Elle Burgess, formally known as Tyler Street Films Furthermore, we were fortunate to include interview sessions with close family members and friends of Chadwick A. Boseman. These interviews featured Howard University Fine Arts alumna, April Carter; Chair of the Department of Theatre Arts, Nikkole Salter; Inaugural Dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts, Phylicia Rashad; and Kevin Boseman, Chadwick’s brother. This film would not be possible without the support of the Disney Storytellers Fund at Howard University, and the guidance of Assistant Dean Denise Saunders-Thompson, Heidi Gerber-Salins, and Dean Phylicia Rashad.
6. Do you have future plans personally and for the film?
Personally, I plan to continue creating films that draw recognition to the arts and influential black figures whose stories have yet to be told. My overall goal is to inspire and empower the next generation of Black artists, by encouraging them to pursue their passions and make their voices heard. In addition to my work in film, I plan to launch the “Who’s Next?” Foundation alongside my Take 6 Productions team, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds for young aspiring artists who may not have the resources to pursue a career in the arts. With “Who’s Next?”I aim to inspire future artists by demonstrating that they are capable of achieving anything they set their
7. What were the lessons learned from making the film?
Making this film has taught me many valuable lessons. I learned that filmmaking is a process that takes time, requires attention to detail, and demands careful review to ensure everything is properly cleared. However, the most important lesson that has stuck with me is the importance of patience and giving yourself grace. Initially, I was hesitant on even applying for the grant from the Disney Storytellers Fund at Howard University because I doubted if my idea was attainable, and if I was experienced enough given my background as a dancer instead of a filmmaker. As I navigated through the process and learned new skills, I reminded myself to extend grace and patience to both myself and my teammates. We were all in a learning experience while balancing the project with our responsibilities as full time students.
8. Do you want to add anything?
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported the creation of “Who’s Next?”and the growth of Take 6 Productions. A special thank you to the Boseman family for their love and support throughout this journey. I hope this project honors Chadwick A. Boseman’s legacy and makes them proud. I am committed to continuing to make my mark at Howard University, inspiring my peers, and working alongside my talented team, Take 6 Productions, to create even more impactful work. This is just the beginning for us! Be sure to stay updated.
We Can Live Outside Our Fears
by Zenobia D. Bailey
2025 is alive and moving just as fast as ever. As you consider past years and look ahead to what
already does or might lie ahead, do you have hesitations or even fear? Isaiah 41 verse 10 has a wonderful message concerning fear. Listen to this comforting 8 minute episode of Zenobia D. Bailey’s Grace and Peace: Heart to Heart 2.
For more information, https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/grace-peace-heart-to-heart-2–6431975
Featured Author: Edwin B. Henderson
Edwin B. Henderson, II, was born in Tuskegee Institute, Alabama, attended the Laboratory School there, and high school at Boggs Academy in Georgia. Returning to Tuskegee, Mr. Henderson received a bachelor’s degree in history and then moved to California to study photography and television engineering. In 1991, he enrolled in Tuskegee University’s School of Education and received a Master of Counseling and Student Services, then moved to Falls Church, Virginia inheriting his grandparents’ home, which is listed on the City of Falls Church and the Virginia state registry of historic places.
In 1994, Mr. Henderson received a fellowship with the International Foundation for Education and Self-Help’s “Teachers for Africa Program” and was placed at the United States International University In Nairobi, Kenya. He has been an educator for twenty-five years, retiring from Fairfax County Public Schools in 2012.
A Review of The Grandfather of Black Basketball:
The Life and Times of Dr. E. B. Henderson
The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E. B. Henderson is a masterfully written
biography that captures the profound legacy of a trailblazer whose influence on sports, civil rights, and
education remains unparalleled.
This book meticulously chronicles the life of Dr. Edwin Bancroft Henderson, affectionately known as the “Grandfather of Black Basketball.” Through vivid storytelling and thorough research, the author paints a compelling portrait of a man who not only introduced basketball to African Americans in Washington, D.C., but also leveraged sports as a vehicle for social change. What sets this book apart is its seamless weaving of historical context with personal narrative. The reader is transported to the early 20th century, a time of racial segregation and systemic barriers, where Dr. Henderson’s visionary leadership challenged the status quo. His contributions went beyond the court, extending to his roles as an educator, activist, and prolific writer advocating for racial equality. The author’s passion for the subject is evident in the depth of detail and the care taken to honor Dr. Henderson’s legacy. From his pioneering efforts in organizing the first African American basketball leagues to his tireless advocacy for civil rights, every chapter serves as both a history lesson and a source of inspiration. This book is not just for sports enthusiasts—it is for anyone interested in understanding the intersection of athletics, activism, and education. It shines a spotlight on an unsung hero whose impact resonates far beyond basketball, making it a must-read for scholars, educators, and history buffs alike.
The Grandfather of Black Basketball is a testament to the enduring power of resilience and vision. It is a story
that needed to be told and one that will undoubtedly inspire future generations to pursue justice and excellence
in all arenas of life.
ALUMNI AND ASSOCIATES HIGHLIGHTS FROM 2024
Kamala Harris, B,A., J.D., was nominated for candidacy for the Presidency of the United States in August 2024. She is the former Vice President of the United States.
Former Vice President of the United States Kamala Harris’ Closing Argument Speech to American Voters
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5t7EmrrGs4&t=2s
Vice President Kamala Harris delivers concession speech
Dr Anita Nahal’s short film. “Clubs my sinful dance muse ” was awarded the prize for the Best Super Short Film at the #ficocc– #FiveContinentsInternationalFilmFestival, Venezuela, August 2024. The poem is based on her poem which appeared in her third poetry collection, What’s wrong with us Kali women? (Kelsay, 2021)
Dr. Nahal stated: “This is a very organic, home-based production, barely 3 minutes and 30 seconds long made on our cell phones and tells the story of bias based on age and expected gendered norms, especially for older South Asian women.I am super thankful to have worked with a great team that brought this project together!”
The film can be watched on the FICOCC website at:
(Please scroll down and it is the middle/ in the second row ) or on YouTube at: https://youtu.be/oEJN2d1nWhQ?si=2rZFXZlpXtwdq43s
The film was also screened at the Alibag and Goa short film festivals in India in 2024.
Anita Nahal, Ph.D., is a professor, poet, novelist, flash fictionist, & children’s book writer. Finalist, Tagore Literary Prize, 2023, for her poetry book, Kisses at the espresso bar (Kelsay, 22), and nominated twice for the Pushcart Prize (22, 23), Anita won the Nissim Prize for Excellence in Literature for her poetry-prose novel, drenched thoughts in 2024. Her third poetry collection, What’s wrong with us Kali women? (Kelsay, 21), is mandatory reading at Utrecht University. www.anitanahal.com
The NY Emmys®
The Howard University Department of Theatre Arts, under the auspices of ALL ARTS, was awarded an Emmy from theNew York Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NY NATAS). for its theater-based film “Dangerous Acts.” The other film receiving an award was“ALL ARTS Docs: Manhattan Theatre Club, a Home for Artists.”
The awards ceremony took place Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024 at New York City’s Marquis Marriott in Times Square.
The play was produced by acclaimed actor and former Howard dean Phylicia Rashad. Frankie L. Bethea, Howard lecturer of costume and design, researched and designed the World War II costumes for the play, which appears periodically on the PBS television station.
The New York Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NY NATAS) conducts activities that cultivate, promote, and encourage understanding of, appreciation for, and public interest in the arts, crafts, and sciences of television. As a professional organization serving the New York area, it endeavors to educate and act as a resource to members and the industry. It awards the Emmy® for talent and ability in composition, creation, and performance of works. which strive to improve the quality of television. It recognizes outstanding achievement and encourages the pursuit of excellence and promotes the highest standards of quality in professional, technical and personal achievement in the arts and sciences of television by conferring the industry’s classic, and most coveted peer recognition symbol of distinction, the Emmy®.