Hampton University Alumni Affairs

Will you be on Martha's Vineyard between August 8–11? Or are you interested in receiving updates about future Hampton University alumni gatherings, networking events, receptions, and special programming on the Vineyard?

We invite you to join our new Hampton University Martha's Vineyard Interest List to stay connected and be among the first to learn about upcoming Hampton events and opportunities on the island.

Go to https://bit.ly/4o8efT0 to sign up!

From the campus of Hampton to the airwaves of history—meet media trailblazer Jesse 'Spider' Burks!

As the first Black Jazz DJ in Saint Louis, he interviewed giants like Duke Ellington and Nat King Cole, shaping the course of radio and cementing a timeless legacy in the jazz community.

This Black Music Month we honor Jesse Spider Burks, Forever a Pirate!

Congratulations to Anita Blanton '05, an Onyx VI alumna and former Miss Hampton ('04-'05), on her promotion as the new host of Chicago Report, FOX32 Chicago's political show, airing each evening from 6:30-7pm CST on FOX Chicago Plus (WPWR-TV) and 10-10:30 p.m. on FOX32 Chicago.

Hampton excellence continues to make an impact far beyond the Home by the Sea. 🌊

Congratulations to Hampton alumnus Rev. Dr. Steven A. Chambers, EdLD ’05, recipient of the 2026 Harvard Graduate School of Education Alumni Council Award for Impact in Education.

From the classroom to the community, Dr. Chambers has dedicated his life to creating pathways of opportunity for young people and families. As Executive Director of New York City’s Young Men’s Initiative, he leads efforts across the city to champion policies, programs, and partnerships that empower young men of color and strengthen communities through educational equity.

A proud Hampton graduate, educator, minister, mentor, and servant leader, Dr. Chambers represents the very spirit of HU — leadership, service, and impact.

His remarkable achievement will be honored on Harvard Alumni Day on June 5.

Congratulations to CPT(P) Jordan A. Green '15 who will be promoted to Major in the United States Army, Judge Advocate General's Corps on Monday, June 29.

Dr. Carlos Stringer Smith '03 serves as the inaugural Associate Dean for Ethics and Community Engagement and Associate Professor in the Department of Dental Public Health and Policy at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry.

Most recently, Dr. Smith was promoted to full professor with tenure, effective July 2026 and is the first Black full professor with tenure in the history of VCU School of Dentistry.