A deep commitment to advancing the mission of UMES was more than impressive. The agenda facilitated ideas for the revitalization of the Hawks that need further development and sustained advocacy at the highest levels of government and industry. Professor Glaude's presentation was a profound complement to the mission of nation building at umes and the community they serve. Advocacy and fundraising must remain priorities to achieve our goal and to "compensate" Wayne and others for their willingness to continue this critical work. I am more than appreciative for the opportunity to move the issue forward.
Dr. N Joyce Payne
Wayne and Entire Organizers of HFF Event, Congratulations for a job and contribution well done! I am a bit late responding to your request for comments, and realize all that I could say has been said and I agree wholeheartedly with everyone’s supportive statements. I would add, I hope that UMES leaders will take the time to not only read the report on the event but look and listen to the video(s) of the event. The event was both formative and informative. And act in a spirit of collaboration in the best interest of the University to gain from such seasoned and admired talent with binding ties to UMES. All the presenters and facilitators are respected friends and Alums of UMES who care about and want to be part of sustaining its founding mission and responsibility to service. All are respected servant leaders with knowledge, wisdom and understanding, playing it forward lifting as they have and continue to climb. It would be such a wast to squander such a gift of talent and generosity from sons, daughters and friends of UMES. The HHF event was a success. Inspiration is one of its intangibles. The take-away from my perspective— all gathered were inspired to do their best and raise their level of expectation for football as the future of the University’s prosperity. Bless be the ties that “bind our hearts yet closer, To thee we love so well…”.
Ambrose Jearld Jr., PH.D.
Pat Hopkins Alexandra
Dinner Introduction of Ambrose Jearld, Jr., Honoree I felt honored to introduce Ambrose and thank you for making it possible. Ambrose more than deserves all the recognition and more. The entire program was very worthwhile and UMES needs all the support you can give her to move to a new era of even greater service.
Brad Brown, Ph.D.
The Son of John Wesley Smith, Honoree Good Evening Mr. Jearld, I think the event was great! Unfortunately, I was unable to attend most of the day's events but there was a great spirit that filled the room. The mission of bringing back football is going to be a heavy lift. I think (my opinion) that Hawks For Football may want to bring in other stakeholders to help raise the profile of the ultimate goal of bringing football back to UMES. Not sure if there are any legal reason but this seems like it could be a great day's event during homecoming. No better place to try to galvanize support. Again, Mr. Jearld I appreciate you sir.
Marcus Smith
HAWKS FOR FOOTBALL was well organized, thanks to Wayne Jearld and his staff. The event provided well versed speakers about UMES advantages and concerns. HFF clearly pointed out the importance of having a campus football team, which builds campus comradery and national notability. In addition, a football team attracts potential students. My overall program points:
Joseph Mason
The event was excellent. It was very informative. The venue was outstanding and a true treat. Each participant on the various panels and panel discussions shared key points in moving forward with a flavored spirit. Guest, Dr. Ed Glaude, who performed like a one man performer in a theatre play, blended history and education. He keenly pointed out that the problems that we experience are” theirs” and not “ours” as evident by the truth! We are doing what is right and the right thing. Like a faith layered cake iced with hope, the future will conquer all! Continue the excellence and sharing vital and targeted information. Thanks for sharing.
Paul Trotter
It is with a great deal of pleasure that I offer these comments because this event was a very clear indicator that HFF is moving in the right direction. The event was well focused, managed, content rich, relevant achievement recognitions, and full of restoration HOPE!!! I can see clearly now. Thanks for a job nicely done.
Armstead Ward
Comments to come