central state university logo with school colors of maroon and gold and iconic tower on shield with the year of founding 1887

The Ambassador


OCTOBER 2024 | Volume 2, Issue 10

graphic showing a picture of the central state university invincible marching marauders from above thanking attendees for attention homecoming 2024

Welcome to this special Homecoming edition of The Ambassador. Central State University's 2024 Homecoming was a true celebration of our Marauder spirit, blending tradition, unity, and progress. Central State has become a Destination Learning Environment. Thank you for being part of the legacy.

a tuba player in the invincible marching marauders marching band during the 2024 homecoming parade

Celebrating Homecoming, HBCU-style


Central State University’s 2024 Homecoming delivered an unforgettable celebration of culture, unity, and history, reflecting the spirit of this storied Historically Black University. The week-long festivities provided a vibrant showcase of pride, excellence, and community, combining traditional activities with fresh highlights and drawing together students, alumni, and friends to honor the University’s legacy — and one another. 


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john c jones looks toward the 2024 2025 student government association members during an inauguration keynote speech

‘We are called to love’: Student Government Association members challenged to lead compassionately at inauguration


The 2024-25 Central State University (CSU) Student Government Association (SGA) members were sworn in on Oct. 8 during a beautiful ceremony in the University Student Center Ballroom. Rev. John C. Jones, a proud alumnus from the class of '96, delivered an inspiring keynote address, where he emphasized the importance of voting and civic engagement in today’s critical times.


Jones framed his speech around a powerful quote from Dr. Benjamin E. Mays’ poem, “I’ve Only Just a Minute.” The words of the poem echoed throughout the room, setting the tone for a message of urgency and purpose:


“I've only just a minute,  

Only sixty seconds in it.  

Forced upon me, can't refuse it,  

Didn't seek it, didn't choose it,  

But it's up to me to use it.  

I must suffer if I lose it,  

Give an account if I abuse it,  

Just a tiny little minute,  

But eternity is in it.”

READ MORE
central state university athletics hall of fame inductees chantel white-lawrence aja lewis jerry and jerry parker with athletics director kevecia brown and hall of fame chair floyd howell

Four inducted into CSU Athletics Hall of Fame during Homecoming Week  


The 2024 Central State University Athletics Hall of Fame induction ceremony, held during Homecoming Week, celebrated the outstanding achievements of its honorees, shining a light on their lasting contributions to the Marauder legacy. This year's inductees were Chantel White-Lawrence, Aja Lewis, Bridgette Edwards, and Jerry Parker.

MEET THE INDUCTEES

A joyful noise

central state university men's basketball team holding instruments at the annual walk for mental health awareness during homecoming

NAMI on Campus Walk unites Marauders, Centralians for mental health awareness


The 2024 NAMI on Campus Walk for National Mental Health Awareness Month brought the CSU community together in an inspiring show of unity. Organized by students, the event attracted a diverse crowd of faculty, staff, students, alumni and community members — all united in one mission: to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it. Jaylen Simmons, a proud 1997 alum and founder of Joyful Noyze Management, set the stage using art and music therapy to promote healing. Simmons brought a unique element to the walk with an array of instruments like hand drums and bells. Read more

Visiting Alumni Day Janah McClai-Kelly with students sy'mirra robinson and madysen dailey

Centralians build bonds with students at Central State University's Visiting Alumni Day 


On Oct. 10, Central State University celebrated its 17th annual Visiting Alumni Day, a significant part of the Homecoming festivities designed to foster connections between alumni and students. Alumni from various industries shared their personal stories, career paths, and advice, offering students invaluable lessons that go beyond the classroom. Angela Davis, the event's chairperson, highlighted the importance of creating bridges between generations and enhancing opportunities for mentorship, internships, and scholarships. Below are some key moments from the day. Read more

Central State University Theatre Arts Program offers free actor training workshops in November 


Central State University's Title III Theatre Arts Program is excited to present two free actor training workshops this November. Open to the campus community and the public, the workshops will be held in the Paul Robeson Cultural and Performing Arts Center from 12-4 p.m. Nov. 2 and 16. The workshops are designed to enhance participants' acting skills, whether for the stage or on camera, offering invaluable insight into the world of acting. Read more

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The Ambassador is a University Communications publication designed to keep students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, friends and others informed about news and developments at Central State University. To share your story ideas, questions and comments, contact Communications Manager Alissa Paolella, editor, at apaolella@centralstate.edu or the Office of Public Relations at publicrelations@centralstate.edu.