During my initial months as Dean of the Langston University School of Business, I focused on bridging the emotional gap left by transitions in leadership. By implementing an open-door policy and attentively listening to our students, faculty, and staff, we have initiated the process of rebuilding trust and strengthening our community.
It has been a journey marked by understanding and responsiveness, culminating in one of our significant achievements—the restoration of our business school’s honor society, Delta Mu Delta, which had been inactive since 2018. This international society acknowledges and celebrates academic excellence, and its revival represents a cornerstone of our commitment to maintaining and honoring academic distinction and community contribution.
I extend my deepest gratitude to Ms. Nicole Stanley, Mrs. Dawn O’Bryan, and Mrs. Yolanda Boyles, whose tireless efforts were instrumental in this challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Their dedication exemplifies the spirit of service that defines our institution.
The revival of our honor society speaks to the resilient seniors who navigated their academic careers without a full-time dean until now. In recognition of their hard work and as a token of our commitment to your continued success, each graduating senior was granted a complimentary membership and an honor cord for graduation. This honors their achievements and sets a precedent for future classes.
As we look forward, the reins of Delta Mu Delta will be handed over to our rising seniors, ensuring the legacy of academic excellence continues to thrive at Langston. Being a dean is not just about administration; it’s about inspiring and uniting people toward common goals. We are here to serve and elevate our students, and the revival of Delta Mu Delta is a testament to our dedication to fostering an environment where everyone can succeed.
The Langston University School of Business celebrated an incredible milestone in April with our Senior Awards Night. This event was designed to honor our graduating seniors and set a shining example for our first- and second-year students. It was a night filled with joy, pride, and a shared commitment to excellence.
As the first full-time dean these seniors have had since their first year, I understand the challenges they faced without consistent leadership. Despite this, they’ve emerged as high achievers, a testament to their resilience and determination. I am immensely proud of every one of them.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to my faculty, especially Dr. Hamilton, Dr. Ahmed, and Professor Grayson, who spent their evening celebrating our students’ achievements. Special thanks to Mrs. Dawn O’Bryan for her impeccable organizational skills and Ms. Nicole Stanley for her dedication to making the Senior Awards successful. Your collective efforts made this event memorable.
Director Kelly O’Bryan’s words of encouragement and Dr. Hamilton’s humor as he moderated the awards brought warmth and laughter to our gathering. This night was about more than recognition; it was about fostering a community where every student feels valued and supported.
One touching moment stood out: a conversation with a male student who questioned his invitation to the event, feeling out of place among high achievers. My assurance to him—and all our students—is that at Langston, you belong. We celebrate all achievements, big and small, because every step forward is a step towards greatness.
Our commitment at the Langston School of Business is to promote an environment where excellence is nurtured, and diversity is embraced. Whether you’re at the top of your class or still finding your way, our faculty is here to support your journey.
I am honored to have hosted my first senior awards in my initial semester as dean. Let’s lift each other towards a future where everyone can succeed, regardless of background.
Last month, as the new Dean of Langston Business School, I had the incredible privilege of accompanying four remarkable students—Tayren James, Tre James, Logan Brown, and Katelyn Scott—to the prestigious 415th Dinner hosted by the Economic Club of Oklahoma at the Petroleum Club. This event was not only a gathering of Oklahoma’s business leaders but also a celebration of the bright futures our students are forging.
Under the presiding eye of Chad Wilkerson and the insightful words of Raul Anaya, President of Business Banking at Bank of America, we delved into pivotal discussions on demographic changes in America and the strategic pivots necessary in today’s business landscape. Anaya’s focus on addressing the needs of the Hispanic community sparked a crucial dialogue on inclusivity and adaptation—themes that resonate deeply with our educational mission at Langston.
Our students shined, engaging with top executives from renowned corporations like Bank of America and Hobby Lobby. Their poise and curiosity in these interactions were commendable and showcased the profound impact of real-world exposure to industry leaders.
Let’s all join in congratulating Tayren James, whom the Economic Club awarded a $2,000 scholarship to. This scholarship recognizes her academic excellence and potential and is a beacon of hope and motivation for all our students. It’s a testament to the club’s commitment to investing in the future leaders of our community and beyond.
As we continue to build and strengthen our partnerships, it’s important to remember the power of collaboration in creating opportunities that elevate our students and institutions. The Economic Club of Oklahoma exemplifies the kind of strategic partner that can help us nurture the next generation of leaders. This is a testament to the bright future that awaits our students, and it’s a reason for all of us to be optimistic and encouraged.
Special thanks to the Economic Club of Oklahoma for your invaluable support and for believing in our students’ potential! Let’s continue to foster these connections and inspire our community to rise and meet the challenges of tomorrow.
As we bid adieu to April, we also bid farewell to a remarkable chapter of camaraderie and connection: our last session of “Donuts with the Dean.” ????
This event has been an incredible success, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and campus community members under the vibrant banner of the Mardi Gras theme. ???? Through laughter, lively conversations, and delicious donuts (Missy and Krispy Kreme), we’ve forged bonds that transcend the traditional boundaries of academia.
Dr. Dan Fox, Business School Dean at Ashland University
In reflecting on the impact of “Donuts with the Dean,” I’m reminded of the transformative leadership exemplified by Dean Dan Fox at Ashland University.
His dedication to fostering a warm and welcoming environment, marked by events like these, left an indelible impression on me while leading an accreditation team in Ohio. It’s a legacy I aim to uphold as we strive to cultivate one of our campus’s most vibrant and inclusive cultures. Our business school is not just a place of learning; it’s a community where individuals can thrive, celebrate their uniqueness, and embrace their passions. With our dedicated faculty and a commitment to excellence, I’m confident we’re on the path to greatness.
So, as we say goodbye to “Donuts with the Dean,” let us remember the memories we’ve shared and the connections we’ve made. And as we look ahead, let the good times roll!
Every interaction can be a life-changing moment. I am deeply inspired by the transformative power of education in prison. Recently, I had the privilege of joining Dr. David Houghton as a guest speaker at a state prison in Lexington, Oklahoma.
I was honored to reconnect with Dr. David Houghton, who was pivotal in my academic journey. As the former business school dean, Dr. Houghton initially recruited me as the Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) business professor, where I dedicated several years to serving the institution. Under his leadership, I was fortunate to be part of various impactful initiatives aligned with OBU’s global outreach mission.
Dean Green was part of OBU’s Dream Team in the Dickinson School of Business.
Therefore, when Dr. Houghton invited me to participate in a meaningful endeavor at a state prison, I was thrilled to accept. It was a humbling experience to share insights on leadership and transformation with incarcerated individuals.
Witnessing firsthand the impact of education on incarcerated individuals reaffirmed my commitment to expanding our efforts in prison education. This OBU encounter reinforced my belief in the power of education and mentorship to effect positive change, regardless of one’s circumstances.
At Langston, we recognize the importance of providing educational opportunities to inmates, which is why we have partnered with a similar prison near Tulsa.
Dean Green connects with Professor Golbaba in Tulsa.
Under Professor Golbaba’s dedicated coordination, our business school provides inmates access to bachelor’s degree programs. We currently have around 30 inmates on the verge of graduation, but we need more dedicated adjuncts willing to share their expertise in accounting, finance, mathematics, and management.
We aim to introduce 30 cohorts of inmates annually, empowering them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed upon reentry into society. By offering second chances and reducing recidivism, we believe we can reshape society and make these men productive members of their communities.
If you’re passionate about making a difference and helping incarcerated people, you can get involved in many ways. Whether volunteering as an adjunct instructor, providing mentorship opportunities, or supporting our prison education initiatives, your contribution can make a significant impact.
As I continue my journey, I am grateful for opportunities like these that allow me to contribute to a broader societal impact and transformation mission.
Langston University Fosters Student Mentorship for Personal and Professional Growth
Caption: Langston School of Business professors meet with their first-year students to build stronger relationships.
Langston, Oklahoma, March 15, 2024 – In response to the challenges faced by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) highlighted by recent legislative proposals, Langston University invests in student development through faculty mentorship. This initiative aims to counteract the potential adverse effects of such measures on HBCUs, fostering a more resilient and empowered student body.
Recent news from the Mississippi state legislature introduces Senate Bill 2726, suggesting a reevaluation that could lead to the closure of three HBCUs – Mississippi Valley State University, Alcorn State University, and Jackson State University based on various criteria, including enrollment and economic impact. By recognizing the broader implications of such trends, Langston University reinforces its commitment to student success through enhanced mentorship programs.
In the face of challenges and uncertain futures for HBCUs, the mentorship initiative led by Dr. Kj. Abraham at Langston University emerges as a shining example of the transformative power of dedicated guidance and support. Dr. Abraham passionately states, “Our mentorship program is not just an initiative; it’s a commitment to nurturing the future leaders of our community by embracing their entire persona, not just their academic selves.” Dr. Abraham is an Associate Professor at the Department of Biology and has served Langston University for over 24 years.
Caption: Dr. Abraham advocates for mentorship of today’s students.
Furthermore, He has mentored over one hundred undergraduate students who have had a successful career. Dr. Abraham’s dedication to coordinating these sessions reflects many educators’ passion for guiding students. Dr. Abraham’s initiative at the university is a beacon of what HBCUs represent: a nurturing ground for Black students’ minds, spirits, and future aspirations. As we face uncertain times, the enduring value of HBCUs and their mentorship programs remains a source of strength, encouraging us to support and preserve these vital institutions for future generations.
The importance of HBCUs cannot be overstated, especially as legislative measures in some states threaten their existence. These institutions serve as much more than educational entities; they are the custodians of culture, community, and history. At a time when the future of some HBCUs hangs in the balance, the mentorship programs they offer stand as a testament to their invaluable role in fostering resilience, hope, and success among students.
Caption: Langston School of Business Dean Dr. Daryl D. Green shows business student Jelani Jones how to network during a career fair.
Building on his expertise in developing leaders, Langston School of Business Dean Dr. Daryl D. Green applauds Dr. Abraham’s bold steps to fortify its mentorship and educational frameworks. HBCUs like Langston offer a vision for the future. Dr. Green articulates, “Sadly, few people can see the big people of developing college students in their first years in school. Dr. Abraham understands this point. At Langston University, we believe in the transformative power of mentorship. It’s a critical time for HBCUs, and we are poised to demonstrate the unparalleled value we offer to our communities and beyond.”
Dean Green is a scholar and a prolific writer with over 30 books, including Job Strategies for the 21st Century and Impending Danger: Rethinking Federal Leadership in the 21st Center. During his 27 years in the federal sector, Dr. Green has mentored and coached hundreds of students. This enhanced focus on mentorship comes at a crucial time when HBCUs are under scrutiny and facing significant challenges. Senior Jelani Jones shares how mentorship can work: “During the career fair, Dean Green showed me how to engage the companies. No one had ever shown me how. I was impressed.” Dr. Green argues that building deep relationships with professors is invaluable to today’s students. HBCUs like Langston were creating the model. Langston University’s approach, centered on student engagement and personalized support, aims to set a benchmark for academic excellence and community impact.
As HBCUs like Langston University face uncertain futures, the message is clear: unity, innovation, and proactive engagement are vital to overcoming challenges. Langston University’s initiatives represent a beacon of hope and a call to action for supporters of education, diversity, and equality nationwide.
For Media Inquiries and Interviews with Dr. Abraham or Dean Green:
Contact the University’s Public Relations Office at 405-466-6049 or email Media Relations Specialist Ellie Melero at emerlero@langston.edu.
About Langston University:
Langston University, located in Langston, Oklahoma, is the only historically black college in the state. With a rich heritage of academic excellence, Langston University is dedicated to providing a diverse and inclusive education while fostering innovation, leadership, and community engagement.
In a world brimming with change and challenges, the essence of leadership is often distilled into a single quality: courage. As the new Dean of the Business School, I reflect on the nature of courage and its vital role in navigating the tumultuous waters of higher education. The truth is stark—higher education is facing an unprecedented crisis, with many clinging to the comfort of the status quo, unwilling or unable to brave the seas of change.
Yet, amidst these turbulent times, I’ve been fortunate to find encouragement and wisdom from unexpected sources. In February, I had the honor of meeting with Oklahoma’s Secretary of Education, Nellie Sanders, and Star Spencer Band Director, Torrey Pervey. Our discussions on the future of higher education, held within the walls of my office, were not just enlightening; they were a clarion call to action.
On one occasion after this meeting, Secretary Sanders shared an inspiring image and scripture. She sent me a photo of a lion—majestic and undaunted, a symbol of strength and courage in the face of adversity. Accompanying this powerful image was a scripture from Proverbs 28:1, “The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion.”
This passage resonates deeply with me, reminding me that authentic leadership is characterized by boldness and righteousness. To lead effectively, especially in times of significant upheaval and uncertainty, one must possess the courage of a lion. Courage to challenge the status quo, to advocate for necessary change, and to stand firm in the face of fear and doubt.
Let this message guide us as we stand at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Let us embody the lion’s boldness and strength, for it is only through courage that we can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in higher education. The journey ahead is daunting, but together, with the courage of our convictions, we can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and learning.
To my colleagues, students, and the broader community, let us embrace this moment with courage and conviction. Our legacy will not be defined by our fears but by the bold steps we take to overcome them.
Amid March Madness, a time of emotional competition and communal celebration, the value of family stands as my cornerstone as a person and in my new role as the Dean of the Business School at Langston University. Our youngest son, Demetrius, visited us this month after a Kansas business trip. My beloved wife Estraletta, who is 33 years old, our daughter Sharlita Green Olaleye, and our spirited granddaughter Zeal welcomed home to Oklahoma City. Sadly, our eldest son Mario was back in Tennessee working and missing our mini-family reunion. Each child brings unique brilliance and warmth to our gathering, from Demetrius’ academic and athletic prowess to Sharlita’s creative and advocacy spirit and Zeal’s youthful vitality that keeps us all on our toes. Mario brings a sharp wit and a resilient mindset to any task.
To me, family is the nucleus of success—not just the achievements we garner in our careers but also the life we build and the legacies we leave behind. I bring this belief to my leadership at Langston, emphasizing academic excellence and the importance of unity, support, and joy in our collective journey.
My family visited the business school and my office. Amidst the excitement, I was reminded of the powerful symbol of the lion, dominating the walls of our business school—a reminder of the strength, courage, and leadership we embody and aspire to instill in our students. We laughed and took our family photos.
As the Langston men’s basketball team took to the court for their first tournament game, my family and I joined in the electric atmosphere. However, the significant component of this game experience was the vibrant sounds of the Marching Band Pride. It was a moment of pure joy, a testament to Langston’s vibrant community spirit.
I share this story to recount a memorable family gathering and call us to cherish and prioritize our loved ones. Success, in its truest form, encompasses our professional achievements and the warmth, support, and love we cultivate within our families. As we strive for excellence, let us also foster a legacy of love, community, and humanity.
To my family, thank you for being my greatest joy and profound inspiration. And to our Langston community and beyond, remember that our most significant achievements lie in the accolades we earn, the love we share, and the lives we uplift. Together, we are more robust, and together, we can create a legacy that transcends time.
Embarking on my tenure as the Dean of the School of Business at Langston University, I had the privilege of attending the annual economic forecast presented by the Oklahoma City Chamber. This enlightening event provided a wealth of knowledge about the economic outlook for 2024. The estimates, meticulously prepared by renowned economists Dr. Russell Evans and Dr. Eric Long, painted a picture of a resilient Oklahoma City economy, poised to continue its growth despite a projected slowdown in job growth to 2%. The report highlighted promising sectors like health services and trade, which are expected to generate nearly 14,000 new jobs, showcasing the city’s economic vitality and capacity to exceed national performance averages.
In a gathering where African Americans and other underserved communities were underrepresented, I felt a compelling responsibility to disseminate this crucial information within our broader community, empowering individuals to seize emerging opportunities and compete effectively in the evolving economic landscape.
The warmth and openness I received from everyone was refreshing, with a special note of gratitude to Director Tim Burg of the Moore Norman Technology Center. Tim’s unwavering support and his knack for making meaningful connections have been instrumental since our initial encounter during my early days as a professor at Oklahoma Baptist University. His introduction to the event’s key players and guidance were invaluable. Tim, a beacon of innovation and positivity, has been a steadfast ally in our collaborative efforts to bridge the gap between business needs and academic learning through ‘Micro Internships,’ a pioneering initiative that has significantly impacted students’ career readiness.
As I reflect on the Oklahoma City Chamber’s potential as a strategic partner in navigating the uncertain future, I am mindful of the challenge of integrating this engagement with my commitments as Dean. My journey at Langston is just beginning, and I am inspired to leverage these experiences to foster a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence within our School of Business. Together, we will prepare our students to navigate and shape the future.
March’s edition of “Donuts with the Dean” has woven another layer into the vibrant tradition of our Langston community. Starting in February, this monthly gathering was more than just an event; it became a beacon of collaboration and connection. With a Mardi Gras theme, over 300 donuts, and an incredible turnout, I pondered if we could replicate such success in March. The answer was a resounding yes.
This month, I had the pleasure of meeting a diverse group of new students, many eager freshmen from the School of Business. University College Director Kelly O’Bryan’s collaboration was exemplary; she brought her students and staff to the festivities. Moments like these reinforce my belief in the power of collaboration. In a world marked by disruption, our successes are interlinked with the strength of our community.
Observing their holy fast, some of our business faculty showed their support, embodying the spirit of unity and respect we strive to foster here at Langston. This event is a testament to our commitment to creating a harmonious school culture where fun, excitement, and learning coexist.
From Louisiana to Langston, my journey has taught me the art of hosting gatherings that leave a lasting impact. “Donuts with the Dean” is about enjoying delicious treats and building a home within our business school—where every student, faculty, and staff member feels welcomed, valued, and inspired.
As we move forward, let’s continue to share these moments, encourage one another, and foster an environment of innovation and care. We are crafting a legacy of unity and learning, one donut at a time.
