Latest news with #HamptonUniversity
Forbes
16 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
Why We Need Black Voices In Tech
Leon Burns III Photo Credit: Leon Burns III As a young Black executive in tech, Leon Burns III is making it his mission to bridge the gap between underserved communities and opportunities in STEM. In the past year, he has launched and funded 11 STEM initiatives for Black students, created a $100,000 scholarship for HBCU business and management information systems (MIS) majors at his alma mater -- historically Black Hampton University -- and provided laptops to graduating high school girls through nonprofit partnerships. Why is Burns, who is the president and CEO of Open Technology Group (OTG), doing all of this work? According to the McKinsey Institute for Economic Mobility, whereas Black people make up 14% of the workforce in the U.S., they only account for 8% of employees in tech jobs. And their representation is even smaller among executives. According to Burns, the 'gap stems from a lack of exposure, limited investment in tech programs in our communities, and minimal access to mentors who reflect us.' Burns himself was afforded exposure to tech from an early age, which was unique compared to many of his peers. That early start made a lasting impact on him, and, as he shared, 'I have always felt a responsibility to give back and open doors for others. He added, 'With tech evolving rapidly, especially in areas like AI, there is a real fear that we will be left behind if we do not act now. That sense of urgency is what fuels my commitment to helping others see that they, too, can thrive in this field.' Currently, about ten HBCUs offer formal business analytics programs. From Burns' perspective, 'This is a major gap, especially as analytics increasingly drive decisions in business and across society.' He further explained, 'The problem is that African Americans and other minorities are often left out of the equation when these algorithms and tools are being developed. Without diverse input, the data and the decisions that follow become dangerously skewed.' Diversity in AI getty Organizational behaviorist Karim Ginena confirms Burns' thoughts, noting that both women and people of color are underrepresented in AI output in terms of answers and images. In an interview with Knowledge at Wharton, he stated, "If these issues of bias are left unaddressed, they can perpetuate unfairness in society at a very high rate. We're not just talking about your prototypical kind of bias. We're talking at an exponential rate with these automated decision systems, which is why they can be very dangerous.' According to Burns, 'My scholarship supports 20 students who major in business and minor in MIS, with a focus on those interested in business analytics careers. The goal is to build interest, expand access. This is about sparking long-term change that ensures our voices and perspectives are part of the data shaping the future.' He added, 'At OTG, I have led initiatives to close the pay gap for women in tech, launched a company-wide certification program to help our team overcome societal barriers to advancement, and created a resume revamp program to support employees pursuing internal promotions and government opportunities.' As an HBCU graduate, it was never enough for Burns to simply 'be in the tech space.' It has always been just as important to 'create real pathways for others to grow and lead in it as well.' While a student at Hampton, he learned that people thrive when they feel 'seen, supported, and included in the culture.' That lesson has shaped his leadership. For Burns, 'inclusivity and transparency' are the principles on which he has built his role as CEO. Burns is also focused on the mental health of Black people in tech, which he thinks is often overlooked in the fast-paced corporate and tech environments. I asked him how he makes mental health a priority at OTG, given his commitment. He shared, 'We added a floating holiday to everyone's schedule for a dedicated mental health day, and once a month, I sponsor a company lunch where the team comes together to openly discuss our work environment and share ideas for improvement. We also made updates to our insurance policies to provide easier access to therapy.' He further explained the reason for his commitment: 'I am a huge advocate for therapy myself and began going after my father, Leon Burns Jr., who founded the company, passed in 2011.' Burns also credits his alma mater for his learning how to embrace conversations around vulnerability. He stated that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in recent years have 'created space for students to understand how our unique challenges and insecurities can be exploited in professional environments, and why prioritizing wellness over discomfort or financial gain is an essential part of leadership.' Burns' vision is focused on transformation and access. For him, being a leader means creating environments where others can imagine more for their futures. He is focused on reshaping the tech space to be a place where equity is engineered rather than assumed. His ultimate goal: To make sure that Black students don't get left behind.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Yahoo
Hampton University launches investigation into administrator
The post Hampton University launches investigation into administrator appeared first on ClutchPoints. A Hampton University administrator is under investigation after a video on social media went viral alleging that the administrator withheld the student's grades in exchange for sexual favors. This week, Hampton University released a statement addressing the incident: 'Hampton University is aware of an issue currently circulating on social media. The University handles all matters concerning student welfare with the utmost seriousness. We follow established protocols to conduct investigations and take appropriate action in accordance with policies and procedures. The matter is presently under investigation and is being addressed as expeditiously as possible. Student safety and well-being are our highest priorities. Hampton University is committed to fostering a respectful and supportive campus environment and provides a wide range of services to assist students—including academic support and advocacy, wellness programming and resources, mental health services, and grief counseling. While we understand there may be questions, the University will not comment on any personnel matters or ongoing reviews, as these are confidential. Hampton University remains focused on fostering a safe, inclusive, respectful, and responsive learning environment for all members of our community.' Local news outlet 10 On Your Side tried reaching out to students at Hampton, but many were concerned about the consequences of being on camera. One student did agree to speak anonymously. 'I did not want this to tarnish the reputation of the university,' he said. 'I felt like the entire situation was unfortunate.' In the viral video, the student is seen addressing the administrator at their office about the 'sexual relationship' in exchange for grades. After stating they had no idea what the student was talking about, they walked away. When contacted by 10 On Your Side, Hampton sent the news outlet a statement stating that 'they will not comment on personnel matters because they are confidential.' 'I just hope that it gets handled through the proper channels and that we can get back to some normalcy,' the student we spoke with said. 'Even with a bad actor, I don't think that diminishes anything that this university has stood on for over a century.' Related: Howard University makes huge NIL move before football season Related: 2025 Cricket Celebration Bowl date & time revealed
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Memorial Day ceremonies to take place across Hampton Roads
PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — Cities across the region will be holding Memorial Day ceremonies in order to honor Veterans and all those that have served. Events will be posted below as they come in: The City of Chesapeake is expected to host its annual Memorial Day Ceremony from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, May 26 at Chesapeake Veterans Memorial at Chesapeake City Hall. The ceremony is open and free to the public and will be presented by the Mayor's Commission on Veteran's Affairs. The Hampton National Ceremony is set to host its Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony from 10-11 a.m. on Monday, May 26 at the Hampton National Cemetery. On Thursday morning prior to the ceremony, flags will be placed at the cemetery. The ceremony is free and open to the public. Attendees are asked to park at Hampton University at Lot 10, located at 147 Emancipation Drive due to the limited parking at the cemetery. The City of Norfolk is set to host its annual Memorial Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony starting at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 26 at Wisconsin Square. Major General Thomas D. Crimmins, the 37th Commandant of the Joint Forces Staff College, will be a guest speaker at the event. The ceremony is free and open to the public. A Memorial Day Ceremony is set to take place at the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery on Monday, May 26 from 10-11 a.m. During the event, the Virginia Department of Veterans Services Commissioner Chuck Zingler and retired U.S. Army Major Larry D. Moores will provide keynote remarks. The event is free and open to the public. The City of Virginia Beach is set to host its annual Memorial Day Ceremony starting at noon on Monday, May 26 at the Tidewater Veterans Memorial, across the street from the Virginia Beach Convention Center. The event is hosted by Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer and will feature live music, reading of honored veteran names and remarks from distinguished guests. The ceremony is free and open to the public. Those who are unable to attend in person will be able to view the ceremony via a livestream on the city's website here. More information on the ceremony can be found here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Democrats running for Newport News treasurer want to meet taxpayers where they're at
Voters will decide between a Hampton University graduate with more than a decade of financial management experience, and a longtime Newport News resident and entrepreneur in the Democratic primary race for Newport News treasurer. Democrats Sanu-Dieng-Cooper and Derek Reason are vying to replace longtime Treasurer Marty Eubank, who publicly opted not to seek reelection in March. However, Eubank has recently submitted paperwork to be an independent candidate in November. Early voting has already begun, and primary day is June 17. Dieng-Cooper has 14 years of experience in financial management, including holding executive roles with two nonprofits including Transitions Family Violence Services. The 39-year-old candidate is running on experience, and said in an uncertain federal funding landscape, Newport News needs an experienced hand to guide the city's checkbook. 'It's extremely important that in this climate, and in the future, that there is someone who has the experience in managing the complexities of this office,' Dieng-Cooper said. Reason is no stranger to management though, as he has previously owned a photography company and currently owns DNA Logistics, a local transportation business. Reason, 39, said operating a business means regularly interacting with governmental entities, and his business expertise has left him with a lot of transferable skills for the treasurer's office. 'I think people try to over-complicate situations like this when it's not necessary,' Reason said. 'My job is to try to bring this office back down to eye-level for the public, not make it seem like it's out of reach for the average working-class citizen.' The Newport News treasurer is responsible for the collection of local funds, including tax payments, business fees and real estate assessments. They serve a four-year term and as of 2022, the current treasurer received a roughly $180,000-per-year salary. Part of that job to personalize the treasurer's office, according to Reason, is taking tax collections on a case-by-case basis and using personal discretion to alleviate financial pressure some business owners may be feeling. 'At the end of the day, we have to keep the lights on for the city, obviously, but at the same time, we still have to have a heart,' Reason said. Dieng-Cooper said she also wants to improve transparency in the office, and wants to use direct constituent feedback to do it. Dieng-Cooper said she wants to host quarterly town halls and listening sessions to be a vessel between residents and legislators on community financial health. However, tax collection is a necessary part of city functions, and Dieng-Cooper said she wants to host workshops to help people learn budgeting strategies, collection accommodation opportunities and where their money is going. 'What I don't want to see in this (federal funding) climate is a drastic decline in revenue. We want to continue to move the city forward with projects and initiatives that have been planned,' Dieng-Cooper said. 'I think that that comes with a lot of information for folks and meeting them where they are.' Both candidates aim to utilize technology to achieve those goals. For Reason, that's using technology including AI to set appointments, fix incorrect billing and streamline the billing process for residents. Additionally, Reason said he wants to make the existing website more user-friendly. For Dieng-Cooper, it's investing in a new app to connect with taxpayers outside of pen and paper. Dieng-Cooper said her vision for the app includes regular alerts to taxpayers reminding them of their payments, as well as resources to connect them with the treasurer's office and other accommodation options. According to the Virginia Public Access Project, Dieng-Cooper has contributed roughly $2,200 to her campaign and received another $3,000 in donations as of March 31. Meanwhile, Reason has contributed nearly $7,000 to his campaign, and received another $21,000 in donations, including $1,000 from Virginia House Speaker Don Scott. Endorsements are split in this campaign among current and former local officials. Reason is endorsed by Newport News Sheriff Gabe Morgan, Newport News council member Marcellus Harris, Portsmouth Commonwealth Attorney Stephanie Morales and several Newport News school board members. Meanwhile, Dieng-Cooper has been endorsed by Newport News Vice Mayor Curtis Bethany, Hampton Vice Mayor Steven Brown, Newport News council member Rob Coleman, and maintains an endorsement from Marty Eubank, despite his opposing candidacy. Devlin Epding, 757-510-4037,
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Democrats running for Newport News treasurer want to meet taxpayers where they're at
Voters will decide between a Hampton University graduate with more than a decade of financial management experience, and a longtime Newport News resident and entrepreneur in the Democratic primary race for Newport News treasurer. Democrats Sanu-Dieng-Cooper and Derek Reason are vying to replace longtime Treasurer Marty Eubank, who publicly opted not to seek reelection in March. However, Eubank has recently submitted paperwork to be an independent candidate in November. Early voting has already begun, and primary day is June 17. Dieng-Cooper has 14 years of experience in financial management, including holding executive roles with two nonprofits including Transitions Family Violence Services. The 39-year-old candidate is running on experience, and said in an uncertain federal funding landscape, Newport News needs an experienced hand to guide the city's checkbook. 'It's extremely important that in this climate, and in the future, that there is someone who has the experience in managing the complexities of this office,' Dieng-Cooper said. Reason is no stranger to management though, as he has previously owned a photography company and currently owns DNA Logistics, a local transportation business. Reason, 39, said operating a business means regularly interacting with governmental entities, and his business expertise has left him with a lot of transferable skills for the treasurer's office. 'I think people try to over-complicate situations like this when it's not necessary,' Reason said. 'My job is to try to bring this office back down to eye-level for the public, not make it seem like it's out of reach for the average working-class citizen.' The Newport News treasurer is responsible for the collection of local funds, including tax payments, business fees and real estate assessments. They serve a four-year term and as of 2022, the current treasurer received a roughly $180,000-per-year salary. Part of that job to personalize the treasurer's office, according to Reason, is taking tax collections on a case-by-case basis and using personal discretion to alleviate financial pressure some business owners may be feeling. 'At the end of the day, we have to keep the lights on for the city, obviously, but at the same time, we still have to have a heart,' Reason said. Dieng-Cooper said she also wants to improve transparency in the office, and wants to use direct constituent feedback to do it. Dieng-Cooper said she wants to host quarterly town halls and listening sessions to be a vessel between residents and legislators on community financial health. However, tax collection is a necessary part of city functions, and Dieng-Cooper said she wants to host workshops to help people learn budgeting strategies, collection accommodation opportunities and where their money is going. 'What I don't want to see in this (federal funding) climate is a drastic decline in revenue. We want to continue to move the city forward with projects and initiatives that have been planned,' Dieng-Cooper said. 'I think that that comes with a lot of information for folks and meeting them where they are.' Both candidates aim to utilize technology to achieve those goals. For Reason, that's using technology including AI to set appointments, fix incorrect billing and streamline the billing process for residents. Additionally, Reason said he wants to make the existing website more user-friendly. For Dieng-Cooper, it's investing in a new app to connect with taxpayers outside of pen and paper. Dieng-Cooper said her vision for the app includes regular alerts to taxpayers reminding them of their payments, as well as resources to connect them with the treasurer's office and other accommodation options. According to the Virginia Public Access Project, Dieng-Cooper has contributed roughly $2,200 to her campaign and received another $3,000 in donations as of March 31. Meanwhile, Reason has contributed nearly $7,000 to his campaign, and received another $21,000 in donations, including $1,000 from Virginia House Speaker Don Scott. Endorsements are split in this campaign among current and former local officials. Reason is endorsed by Newport News Sheriff Gabe Morgan, Newport News council member Marcellus Harris, Portsmouth Commonwealth Attorney Stephanie Morales and several Newport News school board members. Meanwhile, Dieng-Cooper has been endorsed by Newport News Vice Mayor Curtis Bethany, Hampton Vice Mayor Steven Brown, Newport News council member Rob Coleman, and maintains an endorsement from Marty Eubank, despite his opposing candidacy. Devlin Epding, 757-510-4037,
