FRANCOIS-C

I had the incredible opportunity to put my Mass Communication skills to the test during my Hip-Hop Culture class visit to WBSU Bulldog Nation Radio. I stepped into the role of host for a live podcast/radio show, where we took a deep dive into the topic of "The Hip-hopcrisy";a discussion exploring the controversies and evolution of modern hip-hop. I won’t lie, I was nervous to be on air at first. There’s something about knowing your voice is live and reaching an audience in real-time that makes you hyper-aware of every word. But after the first few minutes, the conversation started flowing naturally. The energy in the room, the depth of the discussion, and the passion we all shared for hip-hop made for an engaging and thought-provoking show. Overall, it was a success! I’m grateful for the chance to blend my love for communication, storytelling, and culture in such a dynamic way. Who knows? Maybe this won’t be the last time you hear me on a listening platform. Stay tuned! 🎙️

Bowie State University’s Art Gallery's latest exhibition, The Bold and the Beautiful. This show brings together an incredible collection of donated pieces from galleries and museums, offering a diverse collection of pieces from multiple mediums.

Growing up, I didn't often listen to hip-hop, but its cultural influence has still played a role in shaping parts of my identity. One of the most significant ways it has impacted me is through my love for sneakers and streetwear. Hip-hop has always been deeply connected to fashion, and the way artists use style to express themselves resonates with me. Sneakers, in particular, tell a story—whether about exclusivity, cultural movements, or personal milestones. This appreciation for storytelling through visual aesthetics has naturally extended into my passion for design, communication, and leadership.

Leadership is second nature to me. My ability to adapt, make quick decisions, and guide teams through challenges has been honed over years of military service. Transitioning into the world of visual communications and digital art, I’ve found that these skills are just as valuable in creative spaces as they were in high-stakes environments. Effective storytelling, whether through visual communication or spoken word, requires clarity, confidence, and an understanding of the audience. These elements are particularly crucial in podcasting, where capturing and maintaining audience engagement relies on effective storytelling and compelling conversation.

Currently, I’m deeply inspired by Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl performance. He masterfully blended multiple elements, combining choreography, fashion, music, and social issues into a seamless, compelling experience. Seeing him command such a massive stage while staying true to his message reinforced my appreciation for storytelling’s power. It reinforced my belief that great communicators don’t just inform; they captivate, challenge, and inspire. That’s the kind of impact I want to have in my own work.

In terms of skills, I bring a strong foundation in leadership, strategic thinking, and visual communication. My background in mass communications provides insight into audio and television production, scriptwriting, and effective message crafting for podcasting. My experience mentoring and teaching gives me the ability to engage audiences meaningfully. However, I know there’s always room for improvement. One of the areas I want to refine is my voice and diction. I recognize the importance of clear, well-paced speech, especially in a podcast setting. By improving my vocal clarity and pacing, I can become a more engaging speaker and ensure my message resonates as intended.

I got to check out the play reading of Whatchu Say Your Name Was? by Raymond Ingram on Monday, November 18th, at the Fine & Performing Arts Center’s 3rd Floor Lounge. This reading, part of Raymond’s Spring 2025 Capstone project, gave an exciting peek into his creative process and storytelling talent.

The performance was super engaging and thought-provoking, with the cast bringing the story to life in such an energetic and memorable way. It definitely left me wanting to see more.

Raymond isn’t just a talented playwright; he’s also a phenomenal singer and an incredible actor. I don’t know if he can dance, but he’s definitely a triple threat! I had the pleasure of working with him as a co-director on Shutter, and he was absolutely astute and a true professional.

Highlights from the NAAHBCU Exhibit

One of my favorite pieces from this year’s NAAHBCU Exhibit was "MA’AT" by T.L. Bartwick. This extraordinary artwork was constructed using Miyuki, Toho, Czech, and Tila glass beads on acrylic on canvas. The artist meticulously placed thousands of individual beads to create a vibrant and intricate composition that captures both the eye and the imagination.

What captivates me most about "MA’AT" is the dedication and precision evident in every detail. Each bead plays a vital role in building the larger design, resulting in a piece that feels both delicate and powerful. The rich colors and intricate patterns add depth and texture, drawing viewers closer to fully appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind it.

The National Alliance of Artists from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (NAAHBCU) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting artists and art programs within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The organization focuses on elevating art and art education, ensuring they remain central to the priorities of its member institutions. NAAHBCU's mission is to highlight the importance of these programs and preserve their legacy for future generations.

This year marked the 25th Anniversary of the NAAHBCU Conference and Exhibition, themed "Living the Legacy: Celebrating Twenty-Five Years Surging Forward.” I had the pleasure of attending the artist talk, where I was deeply inspired by the stories shared. It was fascinating to see how many artists began their careers in one medium and, over the years, transitioned to explore others, showcasing their growth and adaptability.

Shutter: A gripping tale of obsession and betrayal as a college student's dark secret is exposed by his closest ally—his own teammate and friend. Tension builds, suspense lingers, and a twist will leave you stunned.