Blog 109: JCSU in Review: Watch the Trend

By Vernon M. Herron

     Johnson C. Smith University, under the leadership of Dr. Ronald L. Carter, is redefining  the role of Historical Black College or University (HBCU)  and is setting forth new trends which will transform his school into “Charlotte’s Premier Independent Urban University.” He is attempting to achieve this goal through physical transformation, new attitude, a change in program offerings and new ways in institutional operation.

     Let’s be specific. Physical transformation includes the Awarded Energy and Sustainability Grant for Grimes Lounge and Smith Hall; The George E. Davis House to serve as the future home of the Foster Village Network Center; Duke Hall Renovation Project is the new home of the HealthPlex for Health and Wellness Department. New attitude includes the erection of a Mosaic Village in Historic West End, a change in Program Offerings and New Program Trends.

     A few old buildings on Smith’s campus are now undergoing renovation. According to a Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) News Bulletin, the following is reported:

The Awarded Energy and Sustainability Grant for Grimes Lounge and Smith Hall is to fund several critical strategic energy needs. In the spring of 2011, the North Carolina State Energy Office (SEO) announced a request for proposals to increase energy efficiency in the facilities of large non-profits, companies and organizations. This highly competitive grant program was funded by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (stimulus) funds. The University, upon review and completion of the requirements, submitted a proposal to fund several critical strategic energy needs on campus. The University then contracted with a team of energy consultants, general contractors and engineers to quickly assess the viability of several projects and create the proposals from which two key projects were selected: 1. The replacement of the roofing system and the glass curtain walls in Grimes Lounge and the top floor of the Mary Joyce Crisp Taylor Student Union, which hosts major events on campus.

The second key project was to upgrade the building systems in Smith Hall. Smith is the second oldest residence hall on campus and was a residence for seminarians in the early years. It is currently a mixed-use residence and administrative hall. Students living in the building were uncomfortable with room temperatures that could not be controlled. The problem often led to open windows while the system was running, which wasted energy. This project allowed for the installation of an automatic control system that adjusts energy use according to the temperature, and installation of new more efficient pumps.

The George E. Davis House will serve as Future Home of Foster Village. The Foster Village Network Center is designed to serve young men and women who have phased out of foster care by providing opportunities for them to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and the possibilities available through continued education. While an increasing number of universities around the country have established programs to support the needs of non-traditional students, very few are actively working with local child welfare agencies and community organizations to construct an integrated model of support for students in all stages of the foster care system. The JCSU program is rather unique in that it offers a holistic strategy that addresses the needs of students during high school, college years at JCSU and after graduation. The comprehensive program enlists the support of state- and community-based partner organizations, with a focus on funding, easing the transition from foster care to independent living, providing a supportive surrogate family for success during college and propelling young minds toward successful, productive lives in their communities. The Foster Care Network will provide a myriad of services and support including: Year-round housing and other basic needs; financial aid; academic advising, career counseling and supplemental support; personal guidance and counseling; opportunities for student community engagement and leadership; and planned transitions.

   

Duke Hall is undergoing a $5.5 million renovation with help from the Duke Endowment grant received last fall. The current structure will be transformed into suite-style residential units. This thorough renovation project includes new plumbing and electrical work. Recently, students were given a chance to view the models and express their opinions on the lay-outs of the suites. Upgrades will include full kitchens, modern furniture, study and TV lounge areas. This provides the University another opportunity to create a living and learning environment where students achieve academic and personal success.

The HealthPlex will house the University’s wellness department and will give staff, faculty and students of JCSU free access to a health facility and wellness programming. The programming will address the unique needs and concerns of the JCSU campus and the surrounding community. The center will offer exercise, weight loss and nutrition programs to the University students, faculty and administration. It will also provide community outreach programs to Charlotte-Mecklenburg school children through instructions and promotion of health and fitness improvements.

Mosaic Village Rises to the Occasion in Historic West End. It is a magnificent new urban student housing opportunity scheduled to open in fall, 2012. Located just a half-mile from campus, this modern suite-style apartment complex will serve 299 students at Johnson C. Smith University. The four-story urban housing facility will include: retail shops on the street level; a secured parking garage; a rooftop patio for event scheduling; an outdoor courtyard; two-, four- and five-bedroom unit floor plans; an environmentally-conscious modern design; video surveillance with 24-hour security; and amazing views Charlotte’s skyline.

The University’s goal is to ensure that the student experience is as convenient as possible. Students who live off campus sometimes struggle to balance the resources to pay for an apartment, transportation, gas, utilities, cable and other expenses. Mosaic Village will give them the opportunity to enjoy being close to campus while experiencing the benefits of safe and secure living. Students who are currently living off campus will be offered first priority to apply for housing at Mosaic Village.

     

     A change in Program Offerings and New Program Trends, have reference to U-Future. This trend will address political, technical, and scientific issues. The first will be an event sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus and JCSU, September 3, 2012. The NDI will bring together former heads of state, ministers, leaders in parliament and political leaders in Charlotte for the DNC. They will focus on three key areas: energy, education and health.

     In a recent public gathering, according to a Mr. Torre, a former JCSU staff member, the Department of Education at JCSU is scheduled to be phased out in two years and replaced with an emphasis on science, technology and political issues. Educational training will be left to state and other institutions.

     JCSU is setting new standards in urban education. Watch this new Independent Urban University for growth and development. Watch the Trends!!!!   

     (I would be interesting in your reaction to this article. Thank you for sharing your opinion. VMH)