Omari Neal, Tuskegee University- c/o 2020, Communications
Name : Omari Neal
HBCU : Tuskegee University
Graduation Year : 2020
Major : Communications
Minor : Business
Email : oneal5981@tuskegee.edu
Where are you from? Who introduced you to HBCUs?*
I am a native of Tuskegee, Alabama, Tuskegee is a historic city located in the central region of the state approximately 40 miles from the state capital Montgomery, Alabama.
Tuskegee is a small town with such a rich history. From Booker T. Washington, George Washington Carver to the Tuskegee Airmen, Tuskegee is replete with people and events that have made a tremendous global impact.
I grew up with the exposure of understanding and appreciating HBCUs. Most of my family have attended HBCUs and have instilled the importance of having the HBCU experience with their children.
This summer I had the opportunity to be a Congressional Intern for New Jersey Senator Cory Booker. Thank you Mother Tuskegee for allowing me to have this wonderful experience!
Why did you choose an HBCU over a pwi?*
I saw first hand how an HBCU could affect someone's life. Since I've been born I have never missed a Tuskegee Homecoming it was great to hear the stories my parent's friends told, to see the excitement during the game, and to learn about people who look like me that are impacting the world in such a broad spectrum.
I knew that an HBCU would be able to give me the nurturing guidance that I longed for as I furthered my education and help as I grow into the woman I hope to be.
HBCU faculty and staff genuinely have an invested interest in molding their students to become the best in all aspects of life because they understand what we will have to face after we graduate.
What is the story of your "experience" at Your HBCU given its heralded status as a stellar and prestigious institution?*
Since Tuskegee is home, I was very anxious in knowing how it feels to be a student at the University I passed by every day. Tuskegee was my college choice because once you've been exposed to the Tuskegee spirit, it's hard to find that anywhere else.
From the joy students and alumni receive from being under the shed to the George Washington Carver Festival where we celebrate the life of The World Renowned Scientist, and Inventor George Washington Carver, Tuskegee has and continues to impact the lives of others.
I have met my closest friends and have built connections that will last a lifetime. I am forever grateful for what mother Tuskegee has done for me and what I will be able to do for her.
"First time" experiences at your HBCU?*
My freshman & sophomore year I was able to be a part of The Tuskegee University Golden Voices Concert Choir. Each spring break the choir goes on tour where we travel to several states and even travel abroad.
My sophomore year we went to Canada where we spent an ample amount of time exploring Canada as we sang in different cities.
We had an opportunity to connect with Alumni that have been in our shoes and that have continued to support the choir because of the mark Tuskegee has left in their lives. It was momentous, and I will never forget.
Who are the professors that have impacted your life in and out of the classroom? How did they do that?*
"Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, caliber, and future of an individual."
Dr. Ankumah has impacted my life in such a positive way she makes sure I am informed on any opportunities that are related to my major and also calls to receive updates on how my classes are going.
Anytime I need advice concerning school she has been there. I am thankful to have her in my life.
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Tuskegee University
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Students: 3,118
- Athletics: Tuskegee University is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II and competes within the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). Tuskegee University offers Baseball, Basketball, Track and Field, Cross Country, Softball, Tennis, Football, and Volleyball.
- Notable Alumni: William A. Campbell - 1937 - Member of the Tuskegee Airmen who rose to the rank of Colonel** Ralph Ellison - Scholar, author of Invisible Man** The Commodores - 70s R&B band whose members met while attending Tuskegee** Tom Joyner - 1971 - Radio host whose daily program, The Tom Joyner Morning Show, is syndicated across the United States and heard by over 10 million radio listeners.** General Daniel "Chappie" James - 1942 - US Air Force Fighter pilot, in 1975 became the first African American to reach the rank of four-star General** Lonnie Johnson (inventor) - Inventor of the Super Soaker, former NASA aerospace engineer** John A. Lankford - 20th century architect** Danielle Spencer - Television actress best known as Dee from the 1970s TV show What's Happening!!** Dr. Ptolemy A. Reid 1955 - Prime Minister of Guyana (1980–1984)** Rich Boy - Rapper** Lionel Richie - R&B singer, Grammy Award winner** Herman J. Russell - 1953 - Founder and former president and CEO of H. J. Russell Construction Co., the largest minority owned construction company in the US** Betty Shabazz - Wife of Malcolm X** Jake Simmons Jr. - 1919 - Oil broker and civil rights advocate** Keenen Ivory Wayans - Actor, comedian, and television producer** Elizabeth Evelyn Wright - Educator and humanitarian, founder of Voorhees College*
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