Celebrating Fathers and the BEingness of Fatherhood:
Why Presence Matters More Than Performance
by Gerry L. White, Ph.D., LMSW
Associate Professor
Clark Atlanta University
Whitney M. Young, Jr., School of Social Work
Father’s Day offers an exciting opportunity to pause and celebrate the profound impact of fathers, stepfathers, and grandfathers who help shape our lives. As we recognize fathers, we must also acknowledge how fatherhood has been viewed, particularly within the African American community.
For far too long, Black fatherhood has been evaluated through a lens that does not fully capture its richness, complexity, and cultural significance.
Traditional Western models have often emphasized a father's value through economic provision alone. Under this framework, a father's success is largely determined by what he earns, buys, or contributes financially. Yet African-centered understandings of fatherhood suggest something much deeper. They recognize that a father's greatest contribution is often his presence.
Within African traditions, fathers are more than providers. They are teachers, protectors, storytellers, spiritual guides, cultural transmitters, and community builders. Their influence extends into the emotional, social, and psychological development of children. I refer to this distinction as the DOingness versus the BEingness of fatherhood.
DOingness of fatherhood focuses on tasks, responsibilities, and financial contributions. BEingness is reflected in a father’s presence: attending a game, helping with homework, listening to a child's fears, or simply showing up day after day. It is found in conversations, shared experiences, and wisdom passed from one generation to the next. Presence communicates value and says, “You matter.”
As a husband, father of three remarkable daughters, Imani, Nia and Jaya, and grandfather of a newborn granddaughter, June-Hope, I have come to appreciate the tremendous responsibility fathers carry. As fathers, our daughters often look to us not merely for protection but for affirmation. Through our actions, they learn respect; through our consistency, they learn trust; and through our love, they learn their value. To them, a father is not merely projecting some obscure image of what a man should be; he becomes a living reflection of what healthy manhood looks like.
History provides powerful examples of such men. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, and John Wesley Dobbs are remembered for their public achievements, yet each was also deeply committed to his children and family. King intentionally carved out time for his children despite the demands of the Civil Rights Movement. Malcolm X often spoke of his daughters as one of his greatest joys. Muhammad Ali balanced global fame with a deep love and devotion to his children, and John Wesley Dobbs championed education and opportunity for his six daughters, all of whom graduated from Spelman College. Together, they loved deeply, taught intentionally, and remained committed to their children despite the extraordinary pressures they faced.
These examples are not limited to history books. They exist within our own Clark Atlanta University family. Joseph Jones, Ph.D., director of the Southern Center for Studies in Public Policy, housed within the Mack Henry Jones Department of Political Science at Clark Atlanta University, is the father of five and demonstrates the BEingness of fatherhood through intentional daily rituals that connect faith, family, and culture. During morning drives to school, he uses gospel music to help set a positive tone for the day, while afternoons become opportunities to expose his children to musical traditions that celebrate Black culture and history. Before entering school, his younger children participate in family affirmations centered on faith, integrity, self-discipline, service, and Black excellence. Beyond these daily practices, Dr. Jones remains actively present through school events, sports activities, family traditions, and weekly movie nights. His example reminds us that fatherhood is not built through occasional grand gestures but through consistent moments of engagement that shape character and identity.
Similarly, Jarrod K. Grant, Ph.D., assistant professor of political science, embodies the spirit of the engaged father. Whether supporting his son, Tariq, or celebrating his daughter, Jada, as she begins her journey at Spelman College, his presence is unmistakable. Those who have seen Dr. Grant speak publicly have likely seen Jada nearby—a visible reflection of the bond between father and daughter.
Likewise, Barton Taylor, Ph.D., who earned his doctoral degree in political science in 2025 and now serves as an assistant professor in the Department of Public Administration at Clark Atlanta University, exemplifies the BEingness of fatherhood through intentional presence and everyday connection. As the father of a ten-year-old son, Ellis, he has prioritized creating meaningful opportunities for conversation, mentorship, and bonding. Their daily school rides serve as more than transportation; they provide time for father-son dialogue, guidance, and relationship building. Even while pursuing his doctoral degree, Dr. Taylor remained fully present as a husband and father, allowing his son to witness firsthand the balance of family commitment, educational achievement, and perseverance. Through his example, he teaches that success is not measured solely by accomplishments, but also by one's commitment to those who matter most.
These fathers remind us that fatherhood is not measured by titles earned, salaries achieved, or positions attained. It is measured by conversations shared, lessons taught, milestones attended, and love demonstrated.
This Father’s Day, let us celebrate not only what fathers do but BEingness that they build families, strengthen communities, and shape future generations.
Dear Panthers,
We hope your Memorial Day weekend was enjoyable and safe.
As we prepared this issue of Amplify, I found myself reflecting on the importance of Black fathers and father figures and the profound role they play in helping their children not only survive but thrive in a world that is not always easy to navigate. There are countless studies and articles about Black fatherhood, many of which affirm what so many of us already know through lived experience: the presence, guidance, and example of a committed father can shape generations.
For me, this reflection is deeply personal. The relationship I shared with my father remains one of the most cherished parts of my life. He was my role model, but more importantly, he was simply my dad. He taught me to look for the good in people and situations. He taught me the value of loyalty, competence, and hard work. Much of my determination to succeed has always been rooted in a desire to make him proud.
One of the greatest honors of my life was pursuing my doctorate in education and ultimately becoming Dr. Saddler, just like my father. We both earned Ed.D. degrees, a connection I will always treasure. Although he passed away during my second year in the program, I carry comfort in knowing that he knew I had begun the journey. In many ways, completing that degree felt like carrying forward a legacy he helped build long before I entered the classroom.
This month, we proudly feature an article by our own Gerry White, Ph.D., a Clark Atlanta University alumnus, associate professor in the Whitney M. Young, Jr., School of Social Work, and father of three daughters. Drawing from both scholarship and personal experience, Dr. White’s article reflects on the impact and importance of Black fatherhood. We also had meaningful conversations with two alumni, Andre Archer, Jr., and Donte Jenkins, who spoke about the joys and lessons of fatherhood. We appreciate their openness and willingness to share their experiences. We also extend our gratitude to the fathers and father figures who love deeply, lead authentically, and invest not only in their own children but also in the young people within their communities. Your presence matters more than words can fully express.
As we also prepare to observe Juneteenth, we encourage you to find a meaningful way to acknowledge this important moment in our nation’s history. Juneteenth commemorates the long-delayed news of freedom reaching the last enslaved African Americans in Texas and serves as both a celebration of resilience and a reminder of the ongoing pursuit of equity and justice. Be sure to explore the “Did You Know?” section below for activities taking place across the country.
Finally, as we recognize Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, I encourage all men to remember that mental health is health. Life can be challenging, and there is strength in seeking support when it is needed. Let us continue to care for ourselves and one another with compassion, understanding, and grace.
Happy Father’s Day, and happy Juneteenth!
With gratitude for those who guide, uplift, and inspire us,
Lorri L. Saddler, Ed.D. (CAU, '92, '20)
Vice President, Chief Alumni Engagement Officer
Clark Atlanta University
Andre Archer, Jr.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cox Communications
Clark Atlanta University, '16
Andre Archer, Jr., a Lansing, Michigan, native who met his wife while at CAU, is a the father of two daughters—ages one and three—and the caretaker of a niece. He says while he always knew he wanted to be a husband and father, fatherhood has changed him in ways that have made him better in all his relationships.
What is your philosophy on fatherhood?
I believe a father should be present, active, involved. Parenthood shouldn’t just be on the mom. Your kids did not ask to be here; you brought them here—and they deserve two fully present parents.
What piece of advice would you give a Black man who is about to become a father for the first time?
I would tell him to embrace all the moments, good and bad, from the beginning because they’re going to go by very fast—and before you know it, they’re going to be talking and doing things differently that you didn’t necessarily think would happen so quickly.
What have your daughters taught you?
They taught me and are still teaching me to be patient and loving and that they’re watching everything I do. There are times when I may say or do something and two days later, my daughter repeats it.
How did your experience at Clark Atlanta University make you a better man and father?
I think our motto has literally stuck with me from the time I stepped foot on the campus. You have to find a way or make one, whether that’s being a dad, being a husband, or being a man.
Donté Jenkins
Bronco Sport Brand Manager
Ford Motor Company
Clark Atlanta University, '13
Donté and his wife, a Hampton University alumna, met during the pandemic and now the parents of an eight-month-old daughter, Shiloh. Donté, who says his idea of manhood and fatherhood was influenced by seeing the development of his stepfather, grandfather, and three uncles, one of whom is a CAU alumnus, is excited about celebrating his first Father's Day, while looking even more forward to all the firsts that are to come.
What does Father's Day mean to you?
For me, it's a culmination of reaching the goal and finally understanding the responsibility of what it means to be a father. Becoming a husband and understanding you're sharing your life with someone for the rest of your life was a huge step. But fatherhood takes it to another level from the standpoint that someone is now dependent on you 100 percent. It's your responsibility to help get them to adulthood and teach them how to be a great person—and make sure they're feeling all the love.
How has having positive male role models shaped your approach to fatherhood?
I always had positive male role models around me--my stepfather, my grandfather, my uncles--and I saw them being active parents to their kids. When you're younger, you don't recognize the sacrifice that everybody's making; you just think it's normal. But as you get older and they share those life lessons with you, and you recognize how selfless you have to be as a parent, I knew I wanted to use what I learned to give my daughter and my wife a better life.
What is your philosophy on fatherhood?
For me, outside of God, nothing is bigger than family. It's about shifting and making sure a choice is not always about money or tangible things. Time is probably the most valuable currency we have, so spending time with your children is critical. They're only going to be a newborn once, so it's about trying to make sure you're present. It's about balancing.
This time last year, you were getting advice about fatherhood. What advice would you give to fathers-to-be?
Enjoy the time. Take the photos. And it's going to be OK if you make mistakes. It's not the end of the world. As long as you're making decisions with pure intentions, then you're moving in the right direction. I want to make sure my daughter's voice is respected, and if I do something wrong, I need to be accountable and mature enough to say, 'How can we fix this and work together?'
Looking for Juneteenth celebrations?
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news of the end of the Civil War and freedom of enslaved people. Today, Juneteenth, which became a national holiday in 2021, is celebrated nationally to commemorate freedom and cultural traditions.
It is our pleasure to share the following resources for alumni and friends who are searching for Juneteenth events in their cities or nearby:
Each month, it is our pleasure to share photos of the CAU family engaged in activities that showcase how we live, work, and play. We appreciate your submissions and encourage you to continue sending photos that amplify our engagement.
This month's photos highlight alumni at various events, including the Atlanta Jazz Festival, the Detroit Alumni Meet-up, and Reunion Weekend, as well as alumni who serve as DeKalb County educators.
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