Wilberforce, OH – Lowndes County son is returning home with freshman college scholarships to Ohio’s only publicly funded Historically Black College and University, Central State University. Former Lowndes County resident and Calhoun High School graduate, Dr. Jack Thomas, Central State University president, will be touring four local high schools and sharing his experiences with the Montgomery / Lowndes County area community and celebrating the announcement of a multimillion-dollar capital campaign for Central State University before attending a football game featuring Central State University versus Tuskegee University, on October 15, at the Crampton Bowl.
Thomas, a recognized international scholar and higher education administrator knows the importance of a friendly, accommodating atmosphere for students. He said in the August 18, 2021 issue of CEO Magazine, “I take great pride in having a direct connection with the students. And part of our grand element as a Historically Black College and University is this unified family atmosphere and environment. You can come to CSU and you’re not just a number. We get to know our students. A differentiating factor is our ability to connect and make time to truly serve our students holistically. And we know that it takes a higher level of intimacy and connection to really provide that support.”
He added, “many of our students come from low socio-economic backgrounds and I promote this with my faculty and staff, because we are here for one reason only: to serve our students. Culturally, it’s extremely important to preserve our proud legacy and traditions, but it is also important for us to fulfill our goals and position our students to be successful.”
Anyone enrolling in CSU will get that innovative thinking and more. “Students can come here and get a world-class education,” Thomas said. “We have an outstanding faculty and staff who are second to none, and we encourage our students to think big, to dream big and achieve their goals. If their minds can conceive it, then they can certainly achieve it.”
Just over two years ago, Thomas brought the slogan “Innovation is in our DNA” to the University. “We have to be focused on innovation,” he asserted. “As we look around the country, that’s what we’re seeing. We are being asked to be more flexible and open to new ideas and a new way of thinking,” he added.
Representatives from the Central State University Admissions office will be available to students at each high school. According to Director of Admissions & Enrollment Management, LaMar L. Scott, Freshman Scholarships Honors College Applications will be available for students with 3.5 grade point averages and higher. “Students may apply when we get to the high schools. Eligible students may receive scholarships and admittance certificates on the spot,” Scott said. “A Financial Aid Counselor will be onsite to answer questions, as well,” he added.
Brewbaker Technical High School graduate, volleyball standout, and Central State University student Elaina Brooks, will be in attendance to speak with students at her Alma Mater. Jefferson Davis High School football player, alum and Central State University Senior, Offensive Lineman Genesis Hartley, will virtually address students during an afternoon assembly. Mr. and Ms. Central State University will be available for an interview.
The President’s Tour has become an annual event. The purpose is to share the benefits of the Central State University student life and educational opportunities.
The media is invited to attend the speaking engagements. Central State University students and President Thomas will be available for individual interviews before or after they speak. Here’s the schedule:
Thursday, October 13, 8:50 a.m. – Carver High School Visit – 2001 W. Fairview Ave., Montgomery, Al 36108
Thursday, October 13, 11:20 a.m.- Brewbaker Technical High School Visit – 4405 Brewbaker Dr. Montgomery Al 36116 – Brewbaker Technical High School graduate, volleyball standout, and Central State University student Elaina Brooks, available for an interview.
Thursday, October 13, 12:35 p.m. – Jefferson Davis High School Visit – 3420 Carter Hill Rd. Montgomery Al 36111 - Mr. and Ms. Central State University, available for an interview.
Friday, October 14, 9:00 a.m. – Calhoon High School, 8213 County Road 33, Letohatchee, AL 36047 - Central State University President, and Calhoun High School Alum Dr. Jack Thomas, available for an interview.
Article submitted by Central State University.
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