The magic illuminated Brownlee Lawn as 111 graduates crossed the stage and turned their tassels to the left, signifying their significant transition as graduates and their next chapter as alumni from the Source of Black Excellence.

51��Ƶ conferred associate and bachelor’s degrees to fall 2025 and spring 2026 graduates last weekend at the college’s 156^th commencement ceremony.

The college heard inspiring remarks from three Valedictorians, Marley Freeman, Tadiwanashe Rukasha, and Ashanti Stewart, who graduated with a 4.0 grade point average.

Freeman, from Jackson Mississippi, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art, and is pursuing entrepreneurship and increasing mental health awareness through establishing a clothing brand, Remember 2 Smile (R2S).

“If there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s this. You are stronger than you think, you are never alone, and no matter how difficult the road gets, there’s always someone in your corner, always a reason to keep going,” Freeman said. “As you leave here, and step into the next chapter of life, remember where you came from, remember what you overcame, and most importantly, remember to smile.”

Rukasha, from Mutare Zimbabwe, and Stewart, from Friendship Pen, Saint Thomas Jaimaca, earned Bachelor of Science degrees in Computer Science.

“Life can be scary, but you don’t have to do it alone. Lean on the community you built here, hold on to those friendships, keep those connections alive, because these are the same people who will remind you of who you are when things get hard,” Stewart said. “And, believe in yourself too. Apply for that job, start that business you’ve been holding on your vision board for the past six months, walk into rooms you feel underqualified for and just do it. We’ve been given the foundation at LOC, so let’s not waste it.”

“51��Ƶ did not just give us an education, it gave us great memories, amazing friends, and a second home that helped us shape who we’re becoming,” Rukasha said. “As you move forward, you may not have all the answers, and that’s okay. What matters is that we keep growing, take risks, and pursue what truly matters.”

51��Ƶ President Dr. Christopher B. Davis

51��Ƶ President Christopher B. Davis reminded scholars in his address the significance of this commencement in the class of 2026. “In the Hebrew tradition, the numerical value of the sacred name of God, YHWH, is 26. The name encompasses all tenses; He was, He is, He shall be. Past, present, and future held together in a single word,” President Davis said.

“And consider this, in the ancient telling, it was to the 26^th generation of the world that Moses received the Torah at Sinai. Twenty-six generations from creation to covenant,” he said. “Class of 2026, you are a generation of covenant. You have not simply completed a degree; you received a charge.”

Renowned trailblazer, public servant, and lawmaker, Speaker Don Scott, Esq. of the Virginia House of Delegates, presented the keynote address during the ceremony. In 2024, Speaker Scott made history when he became the first Black speaker in the 406-year history of the Virginia House.

Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott, Esq.

Speaker Scott, from Houston, Texas, shared a moving testimony of his journey through graduating from Texas A&M University with an agricultural degree, to serving in the U.S. Navy, and later becoming a trailblazing leader in the Virginia House.

“I attended and graduated law school at LSU, but during my time there, I made a critical error in judgement. In my final semester at law school, someone asked me to pick up money in Mobile, Alabama. Next thing I know, the feds ran in, I’m in a federal drug conspiracy, and they told me I’m facing life in prison,” he said. “My mother and I went for sentencing, and the judge sentenced me to ten years. Ten years in federal prison. That was in 1994. Almost everyone told me my life was over; except I had this praying grandmother, and praying mother, and they helped me keep my faith and remember that was not the end of my story.”

After being released from prison in 2002, Speaker Scott strived and continuously advanced in his law career. He passed the bar on his first attempt in 2014, twenty years after completing law school, and began practicing law. In 2022, he was elected by his colleagues as House Democratic Leader, and in 2023, he led Democrats to retake the majority.

“That same woman from 1994 in that courtroom got to stand in the Virginia House of Delegates capitol and watch her son being sworn in as the first Black speaker in the history of the commonwealth of Virginia just 30 years later,” he said.

In addition to his service in the General Assembly, Speaker Scott is a partner at Briet & Biniazan law firm, and he serves on the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee Board of Directors and is a lifelong member of the NAACP, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

For his distinguished service and impact in our nation, 51��Ƶ presented Speaker Scott with an honorary doctorate degree of humane letters.

“Graduates, trust me when I say, I know adversity. I know tough times. And when you talk about tough times, there’s nothing that can stop you unless you allow it to. I made up my mind that my past would not define my future.” he said. “Whatever you think you’ve been through, folks want to know about that. Your experiences, history, background, and education, when you put it all together, it equals greatness. You have to go out there and be great. This is your time.”

During the ceremony, Dr. Seth Davis, Assistant Professor of English and Communications, the Dr. Theodore Roosevelt McLemore Award, the award of excellence in teaching honoring an outstanding full-time faculty member at the college, whose efforts made a difference in students’ lives.

The 2026 graduates were also inducted into the 51��Ƶ National Alumni Association.

“51��Ƶ prepared you over the last few years of your life, not just for this moment, but for this time in culture, history, and legacy,” said President Davis to the class of 2026.

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(Valedictorians pictured from left: Tadiwanashe Rukasha, Marley Freeman, and Ashanti Stewart)

Marley Freeman, from Jackson, Mississippi; Tadiwanashe Rukasha, from Mutare, Zimbabwe; and Ashanti Stewart, from Friendship Pen, Saint Thomas, Jamaica; have reached the top of their class and graduates with a 4.0 grade point average.

Rukasha and Stewart will receive Bachelor of Science degrees in Computer Science.

Rukasha said she felt gratitude and excitement when she heard she became a valedictorian. “Especially knowing I got to share this achievement alongside my friend, it felt like a reminder that consistency really does add up,” Rukasha said. “I’m looking forward to moving into the next stage of my academic and career journey.”

“When I learned that I was named a valedictorian, it felt surreal. This was always a goal I quietly held myself to, so reaching it was a deeply personal moment,” Stewart said. “As I graduate, I am looking forward to stepping into this next chapter, beginning my career, and applying the knowledge and skills I’ve gained while continuing to grow both professionally and personally.”

Freeman, who will receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art, also played as a guard on the Lady Magicians basketball team. “It is great to see that the hard work paid off,” Freeman said about learning she became a valedictorian. She is pursuing entrepreneurship and increasing mental health awareness through establishing a clothing brand, Remember 2 Smile (R2S).

The valedictorians are among 111 graduates who will be commemorated at the 156^th Commencement Ceremony on May 9 at 9 a.m., on Brownlee Hall Lawn, on the 51��Ƶ campus at 807 Walker Ave. Memphis, TN, 38126.

For more information about 51��Ƶ’s commencement ceremony visit the commencement webpage.

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The LOC Men’s Golf team (Freshman Albert Laursen in center) is ushering in an exciting new era for the program.

Laursen’s path to the championship was a testament to consistency, composure and resilience. After finishing the opening round in second place, he quickly positioned himself as the golfer to beat. He fired back-to-back rounds of one under par in the first two days, steadily climbing into the lead after Day 2. With the pressure mounting in the final round, Laursen stayed poised, finishing with a five over performance to secure a final score of three over par. His three stroke margin of victory reflected both his steady play and his ability to capitalize on key moments throughout the tournament.

Across the three day stretch, Laursen showcased his scoring ability with nine birdies and two eagles, consistently finding opportunities to separate himself from a competitive field. The victory marked his third top five finish of the season, his second top three placement, and his first collegiate win, further solidifying his emergence as one of the most promising young golfers in the SIAC.

The moment the championship became official was one Laursen will not soon forget.

“When I heard that the guy who was second had hit it in the water, it was a huge relief,” Laursen said. “I could finally let down my shoulder and celebrate what I have been working so hard to achieve for so long. I went straight to my teammates after I heard the news to celebrate.”

His immediate reaction spoke volumes about the team culture that has been developing within the program.

Laursen was also quick to credit the leadership around him, especially Worthen, whose impact has already begun to reshape the program.

“Coach Worthen has meant a lot to me. He has given me this opportunity to shine in the NCAA with short notice and I am eternally grateful for how he has helped me with my game, mental, and even daily life. I could not have asked for a better and more welcoming coach to play for. He has given me the opportunity to move forward in my career and given me the resources that I needed along the way,” Laursen said.

He continued by expressing gratitude to his family and teammates, emphasizing the support system that has fueled his success.

While Laursen’s victory headlined the tournament, the Magicians also received valuable contributions from their veteran presence. Seniors �����Ի��� competed hard against a deep and talented field, finishing 34th and 36th respectively. Their efforts provided stability and experience for a team that continues to grow and evolve under new leadership.

As a team, 51��Ƶ finished seventh overall, a result that reflects both progress and potential. Worthen’s influence is already evident, not only in the individual success of Laursen but in the collective mindset of the group. Following the tournament, Worthen expressed both pride and optimism about the direction of the program.

“Hard to put this victory into words, but I am truly thankful for the hard work and commitment of this team and administration that made this possible. Albert has ascended to a small company of distinguished golfers to win a conference championship as a freshman. The MAGIC is back at 51��Ƶ and the Magicians are on the green,” Worthen said.

With a conference champion leading the way and a renewed sense of belief within the program, the Magicians are building something that extends far beyond a single tournament. This performance in Tunica was not just a victory, but a glimpse into a future where 51��Ƶ golf once again becomes a force within the SIAC.

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Don Scott, Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates, will deliver the keynote address. Scott is a trailblazing public servant, accomplished attorney, and Navy veteran. He was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2019, served as House Democratic Leader, and in 2024, he became the first Black Speaker in the 406-year history of the Virginia House. 

Also, in an excitingly rare occurrence, attendees will hear inspiring remarks from three valedictorians, two of whom are international students. 

“As the source of Black Excellence, our college is looking forward to honoring the graduating class as they advance into their next chapter and carry on 51��Ƶ’s legacy of driving excellence, change, and success in Memphis and throughout our country,” said President Christopher B. Davis. 

During the ceremony, graduates will be inducted into the 51��Ƶ National Alumni Association.

The college will also honor graduates at its annual Lantern Service, a ceremonial tradition symbolizing wisdom and transition, on Wednesday, May 6, at 6 p.m. 

The commencement ceremony will be live-streamed on the college’s social media platforms. For more information about commencement, visit .

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In addition to serving District 91 in the Tennessee House of Representatives, Harris brings 15 years of esteemed leadership and experience in strategic initiatives, advocacy, and public service.

Representative Torrey C. Harris

Harris’s experience also stems from his position as Chief Strategic Advisor at Couth Innovation Group in Nashville since 2025, and he previously served in leadership roles in Friends for All, CHOICES, and Shelby County Government.

“On behalf of the Office of Institutional Advancement, we are thrilled to have Representative Harris join our team,” said Dr. Rosalyn Nichols, Vice President of Donor Prospect and Strategic Engagement.  “Together we will continue the legacy of securing financial support to educate and equip students who transform our world.”

“Our college community is excited about Representative Harris’s appointment as we continue our focus on strengthening partnerships, building pathways for student success, and transforming our community. He brings vision and dedication to uplift the mission of 51��Ƶ, and we look forward to the significant impact that will be cultivated through this essential role,” said Dr. Christopher B. Davis, President of 51��Ƶ.

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This major gift will enhance key academic and student-support initiatives designed to nurture career readiness, improve retention, and fuel innovation across campus. The funding aligns with LOC’s mission to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to thrive as leaders and entrepreneurs.

“We are deeply grateful to FedEx for this significant investment in our students and in the future of 51��Ƶ,” said Dr. Christopher B. Davis, President of 51��Ƶ. “This support accelerates our efforts to prepare graduates who are ready to lead, innovate, and strengthen the economic vitality of Memphis and beyond.”

The generous support from FedEx will be used to advance four interrelated pillars within the Business Department:

• Workforce and Job Readiness:
  • Expanding career-preparation programming, employer engagement, and hands-on learning opportunities to ensure students graduate ready to excel in high-demand industries.
• Student Success and Wrap-Around Support
  • Strengthening academic advising, tutoring, mentoring, and holistic student services that help students persist and complete their degrees.
• Scholarships and Retention
  • Providing financial support to remove barriers, increase retention, and empower more students to achieve their academic goals.
• Entrepreneurship and Innovation
  • Enhancing entrepreneurship training, incubation resources, and innovation-focused curriculum that inspires students to create and lead new business ventures.

The renewed FedEx commitment builds upon a long-standing partnership with LOC and reinforces the company’s dedication to supporting education, workforce pipelines, and community development.

“FedEx is honored to deepen our long-standing relationship with 51��Ƶ through this contribution to the Business School. Together, we are building a stronger pipeline of future-ready leaders,” said Rose Jackson Flenorl, Manager of Global Citizenship & Human Resources at FedEx.

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LOC On the Move is led by Dr. James Mock from the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, in partnership with Dr. Alexis Griggs, Division Chair of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice, Sociology, and Social Science; Peggy Lee, and Dr. Lisa Lang, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.

In Egypt, sometimes referred to as “the Gift of the Nile,” the trip’s cohort visited Salah El-Din Citadel, the Valley of Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Egyptian Pharaohs Mentuhotep and Rameses III. The group also explored the Great Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, the Nile, the Red Sea, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and more sites.

With state-of-the-art academic programming, a vibrant campus community, and an unwavering commitment to student success, 51��Ƶ continues to be the source of Black excellence, preparing graduates to lead in a competitive world.

For more information on study abroad opportunities, contact Dr. Lisa Lang, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs.  

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“Our hearts are heavy, and our college family is in a season of profound mourning for the transition of Dr. Clarence Christian. He was more than just a distinguished educator and a staunch, longtime supporter of our beloved HBCU; he was a true trailblazer. A fierce advocate for equity and social justice, Dr. Christian truly ignited a flame of change throughout our community. For decades, he poured his very essence—his wisdom, his spirit, his resources—back into this community and his cherished alma mater. Now, as he rests from his labors, we extend our most heartfelt prayers and deepest condolences to his family and all who were blessed to love him during this difficult time,” says Dr. Christopher Davis, President of 51��Ƶ.

Dr. Christian held a deep passion for Black history, education, and social justice. In his early years, Dr. Christian, from Horn Lake, Mississippi, wrote articles for what was then the Colored News section of the Times-Promoter, a newspaper in DeSoto County, Mississippi, which later merged with DeSoto County News in 1970 and became the DeSoto Times.

He studied at 51��Ƶ and graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology in 1968. As a student, he was instrumental in leading the desegregation of mass transit and access to public libraries in Memphis.

He earned a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Chicago, and a doctorate in Philosophy and Social Research from The New School in New York City.

In addition to his advocacy, Dr. Christian made history in Memphis when he became the first Black professor of Rhodes College. He also taught at 51��Ƶ, Mississippi State University, and other institutions. In 2024, Dr. Christian was recognized for his significant impact in higher education and inducted into the Tennessee Independent Colleges and Universities Association’s Hall of Fame.

Dr. Christian also held the position of professor emeritus of sociology and social historian for the Tennessee Board of Regents, and he served as a lead docent and volunteer at the Desoto County Museum.

(pictured from left: Robert Dye, Dr. Clarence Christian, and Myron Lowery)

For many years, Dr. Christian’s prominent leadership and civic engagement uplifted countless members of the community. He was involved in many organizations, including the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, the Lynching Sites Project of Memphis, the NAACP, the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and Second Congregational United Church of Christ.

He contributed to historic commemorations, including the annual Amistad Program at Second Congregational UCC, the 60th Anniversary Celebration of the 1968 Boycott Series with his classmates, and his final reenactment in 2025 of the history of Juneteenth with alumni and friends on LOC’s campus.

Dr. Christian was a generous supporter of 51��Ƶ and its legacy of cultivating leaders. He served as the LOC Alumni Chapter’s Annual Fund Chair from 2021-2022, and as a past president of the LOC National Alumni Association.

Throughout his life, Dr. Christian was dedicated to service within our community. Our college is sending prayers and condolences to his family and loved ones.

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“Dr. Gloria Wade-Gayles was a powerful trailblazer and leader, whose dedication to social justice and academia is deeply instilled in our history,” said Dr. Christopher B. Davis, President of 51��Ƶ. “The 51��Ƶ community extends our prayers to the family and loved ones of Dr. Wade-Gayles.”

Dr. Gloria-Wade Gayles

Dr. Wade-Gayles, born in Memphis, left a longstanding impact across historically Black colleges and universities and our country. Dr. Wade-Gayles studied at 51��Ƶ with a full scholarship, was crowned as Miss. LeMoyne in 1958, and later earned her bachelor’s degree in English with cum laude in 1959. She earned a master’s degree in American Literature from Boston University in 1962 and a doctorate in American Studies from Emory University in 1981. 

During the Civil Rights Movement, she planned demonstrations, wrote pamphlets, registered voters, and participated in Freedom Summer as a teacher. Her teaching also impacted numerous students at Bennett College, Talladega College, Dillard University, and Howard University. Most notably, Dr. Wade-Gayles served as a professor in African American Literature at Spelman College for more than four decades. She was also named Eminent Scholar’s Chair in Independent Scholarship and Service Learning at Spelman in 2000.

“I have chosen to remain at historically Black colleges, and that has meant that I’m outside the mainstream,” said Dr. Wade-Gayles. “As a critic, as a writer, as anything, you don’t get the kind of recognition working in a Black school that you would get working in a white school, even if that white school does not begin to compare in quality with the Black school.” 

Among many publications and six books, her prominent work includes “No Crystal Stair: Visions of Race and Sex in Black Women’s Fiction” (1984), “Anointed to Fly” (1991), and “Pushed Back to Strength: A Black Woman’s Journey Home” (1993).

The 51��Ƶ community remembers Dr. Wade-Gayles and her profound influence that will continue to touch generations for years to come. 

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The Mid-Autumn Festival takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month of the lunar calendar, and is a traditional time for family gatherings and connection. Students, faculty, and staff learned more about the festival’s history and engaged in cultural activities, including tasting traditional mooncakes. 

“This event reflects the spirit of global learning and community that we value at 51��Ƶ,” said Dr. Lisa Lang, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Through cultural exchange programs like Fulbright, our students gain a deeper understanding of the world and the shared traditions that connect us all.”

In 2024, 51��Ƶ was named a Fulbright Historically Black College and University Institutional Leader by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The recognition exemplifies 51��Ƶ’s ongoing dedication to global engagement and international educational exchanges.

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