Black Entertainment Television (BET) graced Southern University with their presence November 15 from noon to 4 p.m for their Black College Tour. The mobile event showcased many events for students to enjoy.
“(It had) a lot of opportunities with wonderful prizes, games and a career center for a good opportunity to network,” said Jerrita Self, a Southern student.
“This was a positive and creative way to bring the African-American student body together,” commented Yalonda Shelby.
The first of many events was the long distance shootout that was sponsored by Verizon Wireless. The player with the most baskets within the 50-second time limit advanced to the finals and played for a chance to win a free cell phone. Corey Banks, an accounting major was the winner. “It was a fun experience with a lot of pressure, but I overcame pressure and won,” stated Banks.
Burger King sponsored a “Rap-Off” where each contestant had 30 seconds to perform in Apollo Theater fashion until a winner was chosen. Unfortunately, after about two acts it began to rain and the event was moved to the women’s gym. Despite this, a large number of students continued to enjoy the festivities. Delano Mitchell and “Sticks- Kansas City” ended the event in a draw. “It was very challenging and competitive, but it was nothing but LOVE. We are arch rivals and battling him is always a fun challenge,” said Kansas City about his lyrical battle with Mitchell.
Electra to the Core then gave students the chance to voice their talents through song. Participants included Deontray Alexandra, Latoya Johnson, Michelle Jesse, Demond Wilson, Kourtney Parms and Jarda Westley. “Every opportunity is a blessing, because you never know who is watching,” said Demond Wilson, a senior education major.
Reebok sponsored a “two on two” basketball competition in which Roy Hendry and Roddrell Sykes each won a voucher for a pair of Allen Iverson Above the Rim Classics.
Southwest Airlines sponsored the Velcro Wall Challenge and the winner was Kelli Dicks, who won two round trip tickets to any Southwest Airline destinations.
There were an abundance of free product samples.
“They are good products that can be used in your everyday college life,” commented sophomore Veonka Kenard.
The Black College Tour was enjoyed by all students in attendance. “It was good exposure for the black students to get experience with different types of entertainment that corporations have to offer,” commented Cameron White.
