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JOB OPPORTUNITIESC. R. England has a student training program that has been
designed to train individuals who have graduated from
a certified truck driver training school, other than a C. R.
England driving school and are interested in becoming a
professional truck drivers for C. R. England.
Because we are constantly growing, we have a continuous
need for both experienced and inexperienced drivers who
meet our high standards. To grow your career with us, apply
now. We provide great training, competitive pay, top-of-the-
line equipment, strong driver support programs and a safety
record that is the envy of the industry.
If you are inexperienced, we have our own truck driving
schools that provide the hands-on experience necessary to
get your CDL (Commercial Driver License). No money down,
no credit requirements, and no cosigner are needed to join
our training school. You are GUARANTEED a job upon
successful completion of our training program.
C.R. England partners with drivers and independent
contractors to meet their immediate career needs and shape
their professional future.
For further information call 1-866-380-1976 or visit www.crengland.com/jobopp/index.jsp
WHY C.R. England?Learn what it’s like to
drive for the best trucking company on the road.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO WATCH OUR “LIFE ON THE ROAD” VIDEO
THE ONRAMP
FOR THOSE LOOKING TO DRIVE LIFE
An Equal Opportunity Employer by Choice
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE4
PublisherEM Publishing Enterprises
PresidentJeff Palmatier
Publication Design
RC DIGITAL DESIGN
Art DirectorRichard Chudy
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE™, a publication of Equality
Magazine Publishing Enterprises, Inc.
This publication is dedicated to informing the African American community of job and career opportunities.The publishers reserve the right to reject or edit any copy, advertising, or editorial, The publisher is not
responsible for any unsolicited materials.
Views and opinions expressed within the publication are
not necessarily those of the publisher.
Published in the USA.
All rights reserved.ISSN 1524-279x
For advertising email:[email protected]
For editorial email:[email protected]
EM Publishing Enterprises, Inc.13351 Riverside Dr.#514
Sherman Oaks ,CA 91423Tel: 818-654-0870
ON THE COVER
WARRIOR OF PEACEAmbassador Edward J. Perkins made history as the first U.S. Ambassador to South Africa. He continues in his career of public service, has penned a new book and even counsels reformed gang members who seek to end the cycle of violence threatening our youth and future.
NEW CHANCELLOR FOR WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITYDonald J. Reaves brings a life of experience and enthusiasm to this institution of higher education. Following his election, Reaves said: “The responsibility that has been entrusted to me is enormous; the work is important; and I am fully prepared to do my best for Winston-Salem State University and the University of North Carolina system of higher education.
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING RECOGNIZED FOR SUCCESS Carol Hillsman Sagers Receives 2007 Advertising Working Mother of the Year Award from Working Mother Magazine and Advertising Women of New York for her success in attaining work/life balance. DIVERSITY NEWS • Minorities More SKeptical About Merit Promotions • Music Industry Pioneer Gives Back as New Dean of Music • Microsoft Announces Grant to Enable Digital Opportunities for Minority Youth • Aetna Celebrates 26 Years of Publishing African American History Calendars• 2007 National Tour on Financial Empowerment: “Get Your Money Right” YOU’RE HIRED Dr. Randal Pinkett - Former Academic Superstar, Winner of The Apprentice 4, CEO of a Multi Million Dollar Business and Author Shares Some of his Wisdom and Advice on How to Succeed in Business and as an Entrepreneur.
AFRICAN AMERICANS AT THE FOREFRONT GM’s efforts to diversify the ranks of management date back to 1915, when Percy Lee Gardner became the first known African American to hold a managerial position in the automotive industry. Nearly a century later, African Americans are at the forefront of the dramatic transformation of GM’s product portfolio.
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THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE5
DONALD J. REAVES Chancellor Elect
Winston-Salem State University
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Donald J. Reaves
Named Chancellor
of Winston-Salem
State University
Donald J. Reaves, Vice President for
Administration and Chief Financial Officer at
the University of Chicago since 2002, has been
elected Chancellor of Winston-Salem State
University by the Board of Governors of the
16-campus University of North Carolina. UNC
President Erskine Bowles placed Reaves’ name
in nomination in February during the board’s
meeting held on the campus of North Carolina
A&T State University in Greensboro.
Reaves, 60, will assume his new duties August
15, succeeding Michelle Howard-Vital, who
has served as Interim Chancellor since Harold
Martin stepped down last July to become UNC
Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs.
In recommending Reaves to the Board of
Governors, Bowles said: “In a stellar career that
spans more than 25 years, Donald Reaves has
distinguished himself as a faculty member, top-
notch administrator, and proven leader. He has
taught and held senior leadership positions at
some of our nation’s finest universities.
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE6
“Along the way, he has earned a solid reputation
for creative thinking, great integrity, and sound
judgment. He clearly understands the many
challenges—and the boundless opportunities—
facing Winston-Salem State and the surrounding
community, and he brings a deep understanding of
what it takes to move a university to the next level.
We are lucky to get him, and I am absolutely thrilled
that he has agreed to join our leadership team.”
Founded in 1890 by oil magnate John D. Rockefeller,
the University of Chicago is a private liberal arts
institution that enrolls approximately 13,500 students
and offers more than 50 undergraduate majors,
nearly 80 graduate degree programs, and six
professional schools, including law and medicine.
Over its history, nearly 80 Nobel laureates have been
associated with the university as faculty members,
students, or researchers. Six are now on the faculty.
In his current role as vice president and CFO,
Reaves has had primary oversight of most of the
University of Chicago’s fiscal and administrative
operations. Key areas of responsibility have
included budgeting, human resources, capital
planning and facilities services, construction, risk
management, and fiscal and strategic planning.
Reaves also supports five committees of the
university’s Board of Trustees.
A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Reaves majored in
political science at Cleveland State University,
graduating in 1976. After completing his master’s
degree (1978) in the field and a doctoral degree
(1981) in political science and public administration
at Kent State University, he accepted a tenure-track
faculty position at Northeastern University in Boston.
Although Reaves soon joined the Massachusetts
Department of Public Welfare (1984-88), rising to
Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Budget and
Cost Control, he continued to teach as an adjunct
professor in Northeastern’s Graduate School of Arts
and Science until 1993.
In 1988, Reaves began a 14-year tenure at Brown
University in Providence, RI, where he served as
Assistant Vice President and University Budget
Director, Vice President for Finance, and Executive
Vice President for Finance and Administration
and Chief Financial Officer. He served in the
latter position for nine years prior to being named
Vice President for Administration and CFO at the
University of Chicago in 2002. Active in professional
and higher-education organizations, Reaves is a
former chair of the Roxbury (Boston, MA) Community
College Board of Trustees and a former vice chair of
the Tougaloo (MS) College Board of Trustees.
He has previously served as a director of the
National Association of College and University
Business Officers (NACUBO) and currently serves
on the boards of the American Student Assistance
Corp., the William Blair Funds, and the Amica Mutual
Insurance Company.
“He clearly understands the many
challenges—and the boundless
opportunities—facing Winston-Salem
State and the surrounding community,
and he brings a deep understanding of
what it takes to move a university to the
next level. We are lucky to get him, and I
am absolutely thrilled that he has agreed
to join our leadership team.” UNC President Erskine Bowles
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE7
Reaves is married to Dr. Deborah Ross Reaves, a
clinical psychologist for the Cooperative Association
for Special Education. They have two adult children:
Marc, a graduate of Cleveland State University
employed as a real estate agent in Cleveland; and
Katherine (Katie), a graduate of Yale University who
will be entering the University of Chicago law school
next fall.
Following his election, Reaves said: “The
responsibility that has been entrusted to me is
enormous; the work is important; and I am fully
prepared to do my best for Winston-Salem State
University and the University of North Carolina
system of higher education. Deborah and I and
my whole family are absolutely thrilled by the
opportunity, and we look forward to joining the
University and Winston-Salem communities very
soon.”
WINSTON-SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1892 as the Slater Industrial Academy,
Winston-Salem State University began in a one-
room building with only 25 students. By 1925, it
had evolved into Winston-Salem Teachers College
and was the first historically black institution in the
nation to grant degrees in elementary education. A
part of the 16-campus University of North Carolina
since 1972, WSSU today enrolls nearly 6,000
students and offers 43 undergraduate majors and
12 master’s degree programs. Areas of academic
emphasis include health services, financial services,
information technology, and teacher education. It is
one of the fastest-growing UNC campuses.
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA
The oldest public university in the nation, the
University of North Carolina enrolls more than
202,000 students and encompasses all 16 of North
Carolina’s public institutions that grant baccalaureate
degrees. UNC campuses support a broad array
of distinguished liberal-arts programs, two medical
schools and one teaching hospital, two law schools,
a veterinary school, a school of pharmacy, 11 nursing
programs, 15 schools of education, three schools of
engineering, and a specialized school for performing
artists. Also under the University umbrella are the
UNC Center for Public Television with its 11-station
statewide broadcast network, and the NC School of
Science and Mathematics, the nation’s first public
residential high school for gifted students. •BP•
“The responsibility that has been
entrusted to me is enormous; the work
is important; and I am fully prepared
to do my best for Winston-Salem State
University.... Donald J. Reaves
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE8
WORKING MOTHER OF THE YEAR
African-American Executive Named
WORKING MOTHER OF THE YEAR
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING RECOGNIZED FOR SUCCESS IN WORK/LIFE BALANCE Carol Hillsman Sagers Receives 2007 Advertising
Working Mother of the Year Award from Working
Mother Magazine and Advertising Women of New
York
Maintaining a successful work/family life balance
has earned Carol Hillsman Sagers, Director, U.S.
Marketing, McDonald’s USA recognition as one of
the 2007 Working Mother of the Year Award recipi-
ents. Sagers was honored in the category of Trail-
blazers—working mother pioneers at an awards
luncheon February, 2007, at the Hilton Hotel and
Towers in New York City. “It is truly an honor to be
recognized for my accomplishments as a mother
and in my career,” said Carol Sagers. “The rewards
make the journey worthwhile, and the challenges
provide me with opportunities to make better choices
as a corporate executive and mother.” Carol Sagers
joined McDonald’s USA as the Director of U.S. Mar-
keting, McDonald’s USA in the spring of 2004 and is
responsible for U.S. marketing efforts for the African-
American and Pan-Asian consumer markets. In her
role with McDonald’s, Sagers is charged with leading
the comprehensive marketing program and securing
McDonald’s brand image amongst the ethnic
consumer markets. •BP•
“It is truly an honor to be recognized for my accomplishments as a mother and in my career...”
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE9
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE10
DIVERSITY NEWS BRIEFS
MINORITIES ARE MORE SKEPTICAL OF MERIT PROMOTION
Black and Hispanic employees are more skeptical
than their white colleagues that performance on the
job will lead to career advancement, according to
a national telephone survey by Novations Group, a
global consulting organization based in Boston.
Nearly two-thirds of white employees, 65.2%, cited
job performance as most important for advancement
in their workplace compared with just 56.6% and
58.2% for Hispanics and blacks respectively.
What do you think is the most important reason for
advancement in your workplace?
REASON HISPANIC BLACK WHITE
Job performance 56.6% 58.2% 65.2%
Who-you-know 20.1% 13.3% 19.2%
Seniority 12.2% 14.7% 9.0%
Luck 1.7% 1.7% 1.6%
“Asked the main reason for promotion where they
work, Hispanics and blacks were somewhat more
likely than whites to cite other factors such as who-
you-know or seniority,” said Novations CEO and
President Mike Hyter. “But the statistical gaps with
respect to job performance are significant and point
to a widespread perception that organizations needs
to address.”
What should concern senior management, Hyter
warned, is the overall lukewarm endorsement of
merit promotion. “Just 61.4% of all employees said
it’s job performance, which means there’s a large
minority that doesn’t believe the system is working
fairly or as it’s supposed to.”
“On the other hand, for the merit system to work
fairly organizations have to make available to all
employees the challenging opportunities,” said
Hyter. “And at the same time, individual employees
themselves must become engaged in managing their
own growth and development, and demonstrate a
willingness to take up those risks and challenges.
While job performance and merit are certainly key,
so is initiative.”
The telephone phone survey of 668 employed
Americans was conducted for Novations Group
September 27 – October 3, 2006 by International
Communications Research, Media, PA. Hispanics
were double-sampled with 106 in the survey sample.
Novations Group is a leading provider of consulting
and training services on four continents. Novations
has acknowledged strength in diversity & inclusion,
selection, development, communications, sales
& service, and project management. For more
information, visit www.novations.com.
“Asked the main reason for promotion where they work, Hispanics and blacks were somewhat more likely than whites to cite other factors such as who-you-know or seniority...”
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE12
DIVERSITY NEWS BRIEFS
GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING PRODUCER AND MUSIC INDUSTRY PIONEER ANDRE FISCHER GIVES BACK AS NEW DEAN OF MCNALLY SMITH COLLEGE OF MUSIC Prolific, passionate and successful producer Andre
Fischer has packed up his Grammys, his forty
platinum and gold albums and American music
awards and left sunny Los Angeles for the frozen
lakes of Minnesota to assume his new position as
Dean of McNally Smith College of Music.
Fischer brings a lifetime of musical experience to the
students of McNally Smith ranging from one of his
earliest achievements as a founding member and
drummer of the seminal 70’s and 80’s funk band,
Rufus featuring Chaka Khan, to executive positions
he held at various record /music/film companies
as: Senior Vice President MCA/Universal Urban
Music Department, Vice President of Jazz A&R for
Quincy Jones’ Qwest/Warner Bros., Vice President of
Publishing Development, 20th Century Fox Records
& Films where he and fellow work mate Ronnie
Vance signed the likes of James Ingram, Bruce
Hornsby, and Joseph Williams just to name a few.
Fischer played a key role in the creation and the
success of his former wife Natalie Cole’s seven-time-
Grammy award-winning album, “Unforgettable” as
well her other Grammy award-winning album “Take a
Look.”
Andre has produced; executive produced, recorded
and or performed with a diverse roster of preeminent
artists such as: Patti Labelle, Janet Jackson, Tony
Bennett, Al Green, The Rolling Stones, B.B. King,
Gladys Knight, Frank Sinatra, The Temptations,
Dusty Springfield, Dr. John, Laura Nyro, Lou Rawls,
Nancy Wilson, Bruce Hornsby, Curtis Mayfield & the
Impressions, Jerry Butler, Elton John, The Who, Etta
James, Lalah Hathaway, Anita Baker, Isley Brothers,
Donny Hathaway, Richie Havens, Randy Crawford,
and Amed Jamal, among many others.
At McNally Smith College of Music, Andre is involved
in the development of curriculum for the Recording
Technology and Music Business programs. He also
shares his expertise with McNally Smith students
by teaching courses in Music Industry Careers,
production, and Record Companies. Why is he doing
this? Fischer states it simply, “Its time to give back!”
Previously, Fischer served as Production Instructor
for the acclaimed Thornton School’s Music Industry
Department at the University of Southern California.
“Successful producers put their egos aside to create
great product.” Fischer stresses, “I don’t have an
Andre agenda, I have a musical agenda and for all of
my years as an independent producer and musician,
all I wanted was a creative home to embrace me.”
Andre chuckles, “The funny thing is I was born
in Minneapolis. I left there when I was in the fifth
grade.”
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE13
Indeed, he has taken on some famously challenging
artists and flipped the script into gold and platinum.
When Nina Simone, the arch-diva and genius, was
put in Andre’s hands, she flourished. “You just
needed to listen to Nina. We all need someone to talk
to. Somehow, I’m always the surrogate manager;
lawyer, father, agent, and confidant and I have
embraced these roles.” Andre has accepted the
task of Dean as a way to mentor passionate young
musicians unprepared for the rigors and reality of the
music world.
“I have one purpose here to expand on what I was
doing at USC and beyond. Most of the information
that I haven’t received from direct experience was
freely given to me by my elders and surrogate fathers
of a sort. My Father Stewart Fischer; Professor
Richard Evans, Jerry Butlter, Curtis Mayfield, Al
Schmitt, Jay Lasker, Lee Young Sr., and Neil Portnow
current President of the Grammys. These men and
many others have been essential in forming the
person I am today and any of the information they
imparted to me was for sharing.”
”The biggest predicament with college is the transition
into the real world after graduation, because the
reality of it has not dawned on you yet. Internships
and direct experience in our industry are essential
in helping that transition. There are better halfway
houses for inmates being paroled from prison
then there are facilities that help college student’s
transition into the real world of music, business, and
entertainment. I have been out there for quit a while
traveling, playing with countless artists, producing
records and basically living the dream. McNally
Smith College of Music is a very Unique School
for its faculty are the best instructors, musicians,
arrangers, singers and engineers that the Country
has to offer. I am very happy to have found that
creative home I’ve been searching for. I am looking
forward to seeing many new faces come to our
house!”
For more information, visit www.mcnallysmith.edu.
MICROSOFT CEO STEVE BALLMER ANNOUNCES GRANT TO ENABLE DIGITALOPPORTUNITIES FOR MINORITY YOUTH $5 MILLION DOLLAR SOFTWARE GRANT WILL
INCREASE TECHNOLOGY ACCESS FOR
NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE AFFILIATES
NATIONWIDE
Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft Corp., recently
announced a software grant worth $5 million for
the National Urban League, the nation’s oldest
and largest African-American organization.The
technology grant from Microsoft will provide the
National Urban League and its 102 affiliates
with software to meet the organization’s goal of
empowering communities and changing lives.
“Access to technology and strong computer skills
are necessary to ensure that our community is
more economically competitive,” said Marc H.
DIVERSITY NEWS BRIEFS
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE14
DIVERSITY NEWS BRIEFS
Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban
League. “As a result of Microsoft’s generosity, the
National Urban League and our affiliates will have
the technology needed to enhance our wide array of
programs from education assistance and job training
to home ownership and business development
initiatives. In turn, we’ll be able to better assist the
over 600,000 African-American children and families
we serve nationwide and help them to acquire the
necessary skills to close the digital divide that still
exists in America today.”
The grant was announced at Microsoft’s 16th
annual Blacks at Microsoft Minority Student Day, an
event designed to teach minority students around
the country about opportunities in technology. The
Minority Student Day and the National Urban League
grant are part of Microsoft’s overall commitment to
providing technology to underserved communities
and broadening digital inclusion.
The $5 million dollar software grant will be rolled out
over three years to give the National Urban League
and its affiliates the technology system assessments
and software needed to enhance its adult and youth
programs as well as to encourage kids to pursue
careers related to math and science. The grant will
also provide the National Urban League’s office with
tools to integrate data systems and more effectively
communicate with Urban League affiliates and their
volunteer corpsacross the nation.
“Microsoft is dedicated to working with organizations
that serve and support diverse communities by
providing educational opportunities,”
said Claudette Whiting, general manager of Global
Diversity and Inclusion at Microsoft. “We are proud
to work with the National Urban League to bring
technology into urban communities.”
Established in 1910, The Urban League is the
nation’s oldest and largest community-based
movement devoted to empowering African Americans
to enter the economic and social mainstream.
Today, the National Urban League (www.nul.org),
headquartered in New York City, spearheads the
non-partisan efforts of its local affiliates. There are
over 100 local affiliates of the National Urban League
located in 35 states and the District of Columbia
providing direct services to more than 2 million
people nationwide through programs, advocacy and
research.
AETNA CELEBRATES 26 YEARS OF PUBLISHING THEMED ‘’COLLECTIBLE’’ AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY CALENDARS2007 CALENDAR PROFILES INFLUENTIAL
AFRICAN AMERICAN HEALTH CARE LEADERS
REDUCING OBESITY EPIDEMIC IN AFRICAN
AMERICANS
Aetna released its 2007 African American History
Calendar, an oversized, full-color educational tool
that presents a healthful life approach for African
Americans addressing obesity. The calendar
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE15
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE16
DIVERSITY NEWS BRIEFS
provides advice, healthful messages and important
perspectives from respected African American health
care professionals from around the country.
The annual calendar, featuring commentary and
inspiration on a variety of topics by influential
doctors, authors, and noted health care leaders,
has become an important classroom resource for
schools across the country. Aetna has produced the
African American History Calendar since 1982 as an
annual tribute to the extraordinary contributions and
educational endeavors of African Americans.
“Aetna’s commitment to helping improve health care
quality and access in America includes partnering
with the African American community on health
care challenges that are more predominant in their
community,” said Ronald A. Williams, chairman
and CEO of Aetna. “Through the wisdom and
determination of the health care professionals
featured in this calendar, healthier and more
educated consumers will be created each day,”
Williams added.
The 2007 calendar highlights weight-loss stories,
research studies, community and church-based
programs; and features medical professionals,
religious and community leaders, academics, and
entrepreneurs. The calendar includes messages of
hope with real-life tips and examples.
“Obesity in American is a serious health issue and
the second leading cause of avoidable death in
the U.S.,” said Tina Brown-Stevenson, president
of Aetna Integrated Informatics. “30 percent of the
adults in American - more than 60 million people
- are considered obese, and research shows that
obesity has an even greater impact on African
Americans. For that reason, Aetna felt strongly that
our calendar would be a useful medium to reach out
on this issue,” she explained.
According to the American Obesity Association, 69.6
percent of African Americans are overweight with a
body mass index (BMI) greater than 25, and nearly
40 percent are considered obese with a BMI greater
than 30. A healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9
“The work of these individuals is varied, but these
experts all believe in one central message: change
begins with knowledge, and obesity can be beaten
one step at a time,” Brown-Stevenson said.
The 2007 edition of Aetna’s African American History
Calendar -- A Healthful Life Approach; African
Americans Addressing Obesity -- is available for $4
per copy by calling 860-273-0509. The online version
of the calendar is available online at www.aetna.com/
about/aetna/diversity/aahcalendar.html.
To celebrate Aetna’s commitment to recognizing
African Americans for more than a quarter-century,
calendar highlights and photographic art spanning
the previous 26 years are being compiled into a
coffee-table type book through a grant from the
Aetna Foundation. The book will be available later
this year.
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE17
HIP-HOP SUMMIT ACTION NETWORK ANNOUNCES 2007 NATIONAL TOUR ON FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT: “GET YOUR MONEY RIGHT” THE FINANCIAL LITERACY LIFE RAFT FOR A
GENERATION OF YOUTH DROWNING IN DEBT
– TOUR CONVENES IN HOUSTON, TX, DETROIT,
MI, GREENSBORO, NC, WASHINGTON, D.C.,
MIAMI, FL AND ATLANTA, GA
A recent national poll of youth taken by USA Today
and the National Endowment for Financial Education
(NEFE) found 60 percent feel they are facing tough-
er financial pressures than young people did in previ-
ous generations. The 2007 Hip-Hop Summit Action
Network (HSAN) “Get Your Money Right” Financial
Empowerment National Tour is a timely and proac-
tive opportunity for young people across America
to learn more about the important fundamentals of
personal finance.
“’Get Your Money Right’ continues to be our na-
tional theme for the financial empowerment Hip-Hop
Summits,” emphasized Russell Simmons. “Hip-hop
is about eliminating poverty and ignorance, and we
have found a creative and effective method of raising
awareness about the importance of financial literacy.
We are helping youth and young adults to fulfill their
aspirations and lay a solid financial foundation for
their future.”
Thirty percent of young adults polled stated they
worry frequently about their debt. “This generation
of twentysomethings is straining under the weight of
college loans and other debt, a crushing load that
separates it from every previous generation,” wrote
USA Today’s Mindy Fetterman and Barbara Hansen
in a six part series with NEFE called “Young & In
Debt.”
“Being successful in life requires successful and
sound financial management skills,” said William
F. Jones, Jr., Vice President -- Chrysler Financial
“Chrysler Financial is deeply committed to providing
these skills to young people, so they can position
themselves to take charge of their future. Our part-
nership with the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network is
one of the best ways to reach young people, through
effective outreach and messages that will support
their future achievements.”
Following the tremendous success and positive
feedback of both the 2005 and 2006 “Get Your
Money Right” financial empowerment national tours,
The Hip-Hop Summit Action Network, along with title
sponsor and partner Chrysler Financial and present-
ing sponsor Anheuser-Busch, Inc., are gearing up to
launch the 2007 “Get Your Money Right” tour. The
financial empowerment tour will kick off on March 3,
2007 at The Granville Sawyer Auditorium at Texas
Southern University in Houston, Texas.
DIVERSITY NEWS BRIEFS
“Being successful in life requires successful and sound financial
management skills...” William F. Jones, Jr. VP, Chrysler Financial
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE18
“The opportunity to live productively begins with a
plan that mandates personal financial responsibility,”
said Johnny Furr, Vice President of Urban Marketing
and Community Affairs for Anheuser-Busch, Inc. “We
consider it a real benefit to support HSAN’s mission
to provide young people with the tools, knowledge
and inspiration they need to begin creating the fu-
tures they want tomorrow, today.”
The 2007 tour will feature a panel discussion moder-
ated by Dr. Benjamin Chavis, Co-Chairman of HSAN
which will include Russell Simmons, Co-Chairman
of HSAN, hip-hop artists and financial specialists, as
well as a review the “Get Your Money Right” work-
book, being produced and distributed by HSAN in
both English and Spanish and is also available at
www.hsan.org.
The “Get Your Money Right” tour will include stops
in five additional cities, including April 14 in Detroit,
Mich.; September 8 in Greensboro, N.C.; September
29 in Washington D.C.; October 20 in Miami, Fla.
and November 3 in Atlanta, Ga. The agenda includes
a focus on financial literacy, basics of banking, re-
pairing and understanding credit scores, asset and
wealth management, vehicle financing and home
ownership.
“The good news is millions of young people want to
avoid drowning in debt,” declared Dr. Chavis. “The
Hip-Hop Summit Action Network is about taking back
responsibility, and we’re very grateful for the oppor-
tunity to continue to mobilize youth across America
about financial empowerment.”
For more information on the 2007 “Get Your Money
Right” national tour, go to www.hsan.org. •BP•
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE20
WARRIOR FOR PEACEEdward J. Perkins
WARRIOR FOR PEACE
The Man and his Remarkable
Lifelong Commitment to Public
Service is a Shining Example of
a True Role Model for Blacks
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE21
Q Your life, as told in your book, has
been described as a role model for
young black males. Why is that?
A I grew up when the United States was
entrenched in segregation. Furthermore,
I spent my childhood in the South, were
black citizens were disenfranchised and denied the
full rights of citizenship. Early on I decided never
to let the issue of race stand in my way. And that
is what I have taught my two daughters, who are
the children of an interracial marriage between my
Chinese wife and me.
Q You were raised on a Louisiana cotton
farm by grandparents who could not
read of write. From that beginning,
how did you become a career Foreign Service
officer–United States Ambassador to Liberia, South
Africa, Australia and the United Nations?
A My grandmother, who was born a slave,
was determined that I get and education,
and she always told me, “Stand your
ground and hold your head high.” I did get an
education–a Ph.D. from the University of Southern
California–but before that I acquired self-discipline,
first in the U.S. Marine Corps and the by beginning a
lifelong study of Asian philosophy.
Q Aren’t those contradictions–military
service and Asian philosophy?
A Not at all. They both begin with the
mastery of the self. Only when we know
ourselves can we know an enemy or an
obstacle. Two books that are always with me are Sun
Tsu’s The Art of War and Miyamoto Musashi’s A Book
of Five Rings. I have read them many times. Those
two experiences–as a U.S. Marine and as a student
of Asian philosophy–taught me the importance
of knowing the battlefield and my opponent. This
can apply to almost anything that tests us, from a
business deal to a course of study.
Q You write that when you were
appointed the first black United States
Ambassador to South Africa–which
surprised you as well as the rest of the world–you
went armed with what you call “an unusual quiver of
tools.” Besides Asian philosophy and Marine Corps
discipline, what else was in your quiver?
A A reverence for the Constitution of the
United States of America, a copy of
Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter from
Birmingham Jail,” and a commitment to the oath of
office I had taken as an officer of the U.S. Foreign
Service. I was well trained in the art of diplomacy.
That’s why my book is subtitled “Warrior for Peace.”
The objective of diplomacy, like the lesson of Sun
Tsu, is to achieve peace without war. Yet war is a tool
of diplomacy, too–the ultimate tool.
Q After thirty-five years in the Foreign
Service, you became its Director
General, the top office. For a black
man, was that professional climb difficult?
A Yes. When I joined the Foreign Service,
it was considered impossible. At that
time the Foreign Service was popularly
viewed–and rightly so–as elitist, East Coast oriented,
and white. Minorities and women struggled to receive
equal consideration. All that has changed now, and I
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE22
am deeply gratified that I was able to help effect the
change. I believe it began when a few other young
black Foreign Service officers and I proposed to
Henry Kissinger, then Secretary of State, that the
Foreign Service might be more effective if it better
represented the cultural face of the United States. He
agreed. Even so there were times at social functions
when we black officers were assumed to be servants
and asked by guests to fetch them a drink.
Q Certainly a highlight of your career
was your historic service as United
States Ambassador to South Africa.
Your mission there, according to your book, was to
dismantle apartheid without violence. How did you do
it?
A In South Africa, apartheid was
established by law and sanctioned by
the Dutch Reformed Church. I said I
was there because the law was unjust and because
the United States believed in equality as expressed
in the Constitution. I saw to it that the entire U.S.
Mission in South Africa became an agent for change.
We traveled across that large nation getting to know
the blacks, the Afrikaners, the Coloureds, and the
white English-speakers; we met with revolutionaries;
we spoke out against the arrest of children and the
imprisonment of political activists; and we urged the
faith communities to get involved. I was the first U.S.
Ambassador to go regularly into the black townships,
and I asked repeatedly for permission to meet with
Nelson Mandela, who was in prison. I was able to
achieve what I did in South Africa because President
Ronald Reagan gave me authority to make policy on
the ground-unheard of for an Ambassador.
Q Your Book is a panorama of
contemporary history and drama–
revolutions in Ghana and Liberia;
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE23
peace negotiations for Namibia; world travel; and a
stunning cast of characters: Winnie Mandela, Alan
Paton, Samuel K. Doe, Boutros Boutros-Ghali, Colin
Powell, Walter Sisulu, Nelson Mandela, Secretaries
of State Henry Kissinger, James Baker III, George
Shultz, and Lawrence Eagleburger; and Presidents
Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Gerald Ford,
Jimmy Carter, and Bill Clinton. You are known as
a man who is very dignified yet humble. With all
the violence you have seen around the world, how
have you kept your soul intact? And with all you
have accomplished, how have you maintained your
humility?
A When I was growing up in Louisiana,
every black home had two pictures on
the wall–Jesus Christ and Huey Long.
I have always remembered those pictures because
they represented to me the bedrock of a useful life-
faith and public service to poor people, black and
white. I became, and I remain, a Roman Catholic, but
my faith was certainly tested in South Africa. I came
back from that assignment a different person. One
thing that deeply affected me was the philosophy of
some of the black revolutionaries I met. Some lost
their lives in the struggle, and I was at their funerals
to mourn them. Those who survived have taught
me, and the rest of the world, about forgiveness and
reconciliation.
As for humility, I have seen many a person stumble
over his or her ego. Whenever I receive praise or
attention, I always remind myself that the recipient
is not Edward Perkins the man but Edward Perkins
the Foreign Service officer and public servant who is
representing the United States and working for the
common good. We are not a perfect nation, but our
Constitution allows us the right of civil disobedience
as we evolve into a better nation. In our recent
history we have witnessed movements for civil rights,
labor rights, women’s rights, and now gay rights. I
have witnessed this. And I have witnessed over and
over something we take for granted in the United
States but that is not common around the world,
and that is peaceful change from one government to
another.
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE24
I grew up when it was not unusual to see a sign in
a public park or restaurant that said, “No dogs or
colored allowed.” I have sat at lunch counters and
not been served. I have ridden on a segregated
train as the only man in the black car while my army
colleagues all rode in the white car. We are not that
nation any more. I believe it is not only the right
but also the duty of every citizen to be involved in
making ours a more perfect nation, and that includes
involvement in the making of foreign policy. We are
all ambassadors. And we can all be warriors for
peace.
One value that we in the United States must always
cherish is being a revolutionary society. As long as
we remain that way, we will grow stronger and better.
ABOUT EDWARD J. PERKINS
Dr. Edward J. Perkins was named to the William
J. Crowe Chair and as Executive Director of the
International Programs Center by The University
of Oklahoma Regents in March of 1996. He
took up his duties in both appointments in
August 1996. Ambassador Perkins served as
the Clinton Administration’s representative to the
Commonwealth of Australia from November 24, 1993
until August 1996. On August 31, 1996, Ambassador
Perkins retired with the rank of Career Minister in the
United States Foreign Service.
Early appointments: Chief of Personnel at the
Army and Air Force Exchange in Taipei, Taiwan,
1958; Deputy Chief, then Chief of Personnel
and Administration, at the Army and Air Force
Exchange on Okinawa, 1962-66; Assistant General
Services Officer to the U. S. Operations Mission to
Thailand, 1967. There, he served successively as a
Management Analyst, then Deputy Assistant Director
for Management. In 1972 Dr. Perkins was assigned
as Staff Assistant in the Office of the Director
General of the Foreign Service. He was assigned
as a Personnel Officer in the State Department’s
Bureau of Personnel from 1972-74. Following this
assignment, he was assigned to the Bureau of
Far East and South Asian Affairs (1974-75), and
thereafter served in the Office of Management
Operations in the Department of State from 1975
to 1978. In 1978, he was assigned to the U.S.
Embassy in Accra, Ghana, as counselor for Political
Affairs.
He was named Deputy Chief of Mission to the
American Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia in 1981;
he served as Director of the Department of State’s
Office of West African Affairs from 1983-85. In
1985 he was appointed Ambassador to Liberia, and
in 1986 as Ambassador to the Republic of South
Africa where he served from 1986-89. In 1989
Ambassador Perkins was appointed as Director
General of the Foreign Service and Director of
Personnel in the Department of State where he
served from 1989- 1992. In 1992 he was appointed
as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and U.S.
Representative in the UN Security Council, where
he served from 1992-1993, until taking up his post in
Australia.
Edward J. Perkins was born in Sterlington, Louisiana,
and grew up in Portland, Oregon. He earned a
Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Maryland
and Masters and Doctor of Public Administration
degrees from the University of Southern California.
He served three years in the U.S. Army and four
years in the U.S. Marine Corps. He speaks French,
Japanese and Thai.
During his Foreign Service career, he received the
Presidential Distinguished and Meritorious Service
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE25
Awards; the Department of State’s Distinguished
Honor and Superior Honor Award; the Una Chapman
Cox Foundation Award for Distinguished Foreign
Service Work; the University of Southern California’s
Distinguished Alumni Award; the Southern
University’s Achievement Award; the Links, Inc.
Living Legend Award, the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity
Award for Distinguished Diplomatic Service; the
Kappa Alpha Psi C. Rodger Wilson Leadership
Conference Award and the Kappa Alpha Psi Award
for Outstanding Achievement in the Foreign Service,
as well as 1992’s Statesman of the Year Award from
George Washington University. In 1993, he was
granted the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity’s highest
honor, the Laurel Wreath Award for Achievement and
Distinguished Diplomatic Service. He was the 1998
Honoree of the Beta Gamma Sigma Chapter of The
University of Oklahoma. On September 10, 2001, he
received the Director General’s Cup awarded by the
Department of State.
Other assignments by which Ambassador Perkins
has been honored include: Distinguished Jerry
Collins Lecturer in Public Administration, The
Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida and
a Presidential appointment to the Presidential/
Congressional Commission on the Public Service
from 1992 to 1993. He has served on the White
House Advisory Committee on Trade Policy and
Negotiation since 2003.
He is a member of the American Academy of
Diplomacy, the American Consortium for International
Public Administration, the American Foreign Service
Association, The American Legion, The American
Political Science Association, The American Society
for Public Administration, the Asia Society, the
Center for the Study of the Presidency, the Chester
A. Arthur Society, the Council on Foreign Relations,
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE26
the Epsilon Boule of Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity,
the Foreign Policy Association, the Institute of
International Education, the International Studies
Association, the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity,
Inc., a Fellow of the National Academy of Public
Administration, The Navy League, the Pacific
Council on International Policy, the Honor
Society of the Phi Kappa Phi, the Public Service
Commission, the Veterans of Foreign Wars,
Chevy Chase Chapter, the World Affairs Council
of Oklahoma, and the World Affairs Council of
Washington, D. C.
Ambassador Perkins also serves on the Board
of the Cranlana Programme in Melbourne,
Australia; the Steering Committee for the Center
for Australia/New Zealand Studies at Georgetown
University; the Advisory Board of the Institute
for International Public Policy; the Advisory
Council to the University Office of International
Programs at The Pennsylvania State University;
the Advisory Board of the Thursday Luncheon
Group; the Board of Trustees of The Woodrow
Wilson National Fellowship Foundation; the Board
of Visitors of the National Defense University; the
Board of Directors of the National Academy for
Public Administration; and as a Life Trustee of
Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon. He
has been awarded honorary degrees from Lewis
and Clark College, St. John’s University, the
University of Maryland, Beloit College, Winston-
Salem State University, St. Augustine College,
Bowie State University, and the University of
Southern California.
Ambassador Perkins is married to the former
Lucy Cheng-mei Liu. They have two daughters,
Katherine and Sarah, and four grandchildren.
MR. AMBASSADOR - Warrior for PeaceEdward J. Perkins, with Connie Cronley
“The memoir of Career Foreign Services Officer Edward J. Perkins, the first U.S. black ambassador to South Africa in 1986, comes to life in a hard-hitting memoir of politics and social change that will prove a ‘must’ for any seeking insights into South Africa under apartheid - and after. Perkins came from a cotton farm in segregated Louisiana to join forces with the elite Foreign Service, becoming the first black officer to ascend to director general. But even these many achievements would be superceded by his work in South Africa - and MR. AMBASSADOR: WARRIOR FOR PEACE tells it all.”
Diane C. Donovan California Bookwatch West Coast Editor, Midwest Book Review
“A dynamic history of a time, a people, a nation, and one extraordinary man. Edward Perkins personifies the spirit of his nation.”—Colleen McCullough, author of The Thorn Birds and The October Horse: A Novel of Caesar and Cleopatra.
“Mr. Ambassador conveys what sophisticated and effective diplomacy is all about. A remarkable journey that should inspire, inform, and influence everyone it touches!” —Georgie Anne Geyer, Syndicated Colum-nist, Universal Press Syndicate
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE27
Headlines scream about the violence in our streets.
Whether it’s struggles in the Middle East, turf wars
in America, tribal conflicts plaguing Africa, or other
battles around the world, solutions seem out of
reach. Conversation Peace, a groundbreaking
meeting of the minds between Edward J. Perkins,
the first black U.S. Ambassador to South Africa,
reformed Blood gang member Dashaun “Jiwe”
Morris and actor Jamie Hector, star of the HBO
series The Wire, commemorated the United Nations
International Day of Peace in September, 2006. The
former ambassador counseled the panel in the art
of negotiation at The Riverside Church as part of
his book tour for his recently released memoirs, Mr.
Ambassador: Warrior for Peace
FORMER AMBASSADOR COUNSELS BLOODS GANG MEMBER
Terrie Williams moderates Conversation Peace, a panel with reformed Bloods gang member Dashaun “Jiwe” Morris (center), Ambassador Edward Perkins and actor Jamie Hector (not pictured) at the Riverside Church for the United Nations International Day of Peace in September, 2006.
Reformed Gang Member Consults First Black U.S. Ambassador
to South Africa on How to Create Harmony
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE28
The event, moderated by inspirational author Terrie
M. Williams, and was sponsored by her youth
group The Stay Strong Foundation, as well as The
Riverside Church and University of Oklahoma Press.
Special guest Ilyasah Shabazz, daughter of Malcolm
X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, shared her thoughts on
peace in commemoration of the United Nations
International Day of Peace.
The dynamic discussion of ideas helped attendees
understand the pain that triggers violence and
inspired them with the passion of peacemakers from
different worlds. Congregants gained insight into the
cold reality of the life of a reformed gang member,
now dedicated to making peace both in his own life
and in America, while getting to know an international
prince of peace, tirelessly committed to establishing
harmony on a global scale. Hector talked about
how artists can help raise awareness of conditions
in the community. The discussion brought together
community leaders, social activists to try to solve
violence in our own backyards and explore how
diplomacy can be used to help create a ceasefire in
the world at large and our own community.
It partnered the young men with Ambassador Perkins
whose up-by-your-bootstraps life took him from a
cotton farm in segregated Louisiana to the white
elite Foreign Service, where he became the first
black officer to ascend to the top position of Director
General. Ambassador Perkins discussed how
diplomacy can be used to help create a ceasefire
not only between nations but also in our own
communities.
Terrie Williams moderates Conversation Peace, a panel with (back row, l-r) reformed Bloods gang member Dashaun “Jiwe” Morris, Ambassador Edward Perkins and actor Jamie Hector (HBO’s The Wire).
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE30
“The impact of gang war has left very deep emotional
and mental scars on those of us who have been
on the front lines. Talking with Ambassador Perkins
is a major step towards healing the pain-more
and reaching a solution to create peace within our
neighborhoods and even more within ourselves,”
said Morris. Bloods gang member Morris’s journey
began when at the tender age of nine he joined
the gang in Arizona. Morris rose to a position of
prominence in the group when he moved to Newark,
New Jersey. Morris, along with his friend Kyle
“Jay” Dant, has co-founded TODAY (To Overcome
Discrimination Against Youth), an organization
that advocates parental awareness to nurture their
children so that they are not attracted to gang life.
Morris’s memoirs, War of the Bloods in My Veins,
will be published in the fall of 2007.
“Conflict resolution attempts in our country help to
continue the revolution that began many, many years
ago and continues today,” said Perkins. “Meeting
with Dashaun, who is working toward peace in
communities around the nation, gives me an added
appreciation for what this country is and can be.”
Ambassador Perkins is accustomed to tackling major
social issues. In 1986, President Ronald Reagan
“The impact of gang war has left very deep emotional and
mental scars on those of us who have been on the front lines.
Talking with Ambassador Perkins is a major step towards healing
the pain-more and reaching a solution to create peace within
our neighborhoods and even more within ourselves...” Reformed Bloods gang member Dashaun “Jiwe” Morris
gave him the unparalleled assignment: dismantle
apartheid without violence. As Perkins went to task
he was scourged by the American press, despised
by South Africa’s Afrikaner government, hissed at by
white South African citizens, and initially boycotted
by black South African revolutionaries—including
Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Ultimately, Perkins’s
advice to President-elect George H. W. Bush helped
modify American policy and hasten the release of
Nelson Mandela and others from prison.
Terrie M. Williams, acclaimed speaker, author, youth
advocate and founder of the Stay Strong Foundation,
an organization designed to support America’s
youth, moderated the discussion. The Stay Strong
Foundation encourages corporate and individual
responsibility, develops educational resources
for youth and youth organizations, provides and
coordinates internships and mentoring opportunities,
and facilitates visits by prominent individuals and
business professionals to schools, libraries, youth
organizations and group homes.
“This important event comes at a vital time. As
we have been so focused on global wars and
issues, we have seemingly forgotten problems on
the home front. There is war on our streets. So
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE31
begs the question: while we are all concerned with
international strife, how do we also deal with the
violence and killings occurring in our own backyard
every single day? We asked some hard-hitting
questions and addressed this much ignored dilemma
in Conversation Peace,” she stated.
“If we are to lead the world in the pursuit of justice
and equality, then all of us must vow to stop the
violence,” said Ilyasah Shabazz, author of Growing
Up X. “If our young people are to put down knives
and guns, and cease the violence in the streets, then
we—their mothers and fathers, their legislators and
judges, their preachers and teachers—must lead
them as examples of peace. And, in the words of my
father, ‘We must awaken our young people to their
history and to their humanity.’”
“Conflict resolution attempts in our country help to continue
the revolution that began many, many years ago and continues
today,” said Perkins. “Meeting with Dashaun, who is working
toward peace in communities around the nation, gives me
an added appreciation for what this country is and can be.”
Conversation Peace, was co-produced by Cheryl
Duncan & Company Public Relations and The Just
Ten Consortium. The Riverside Church is located at
91 Claremont Avenue, between 120th and 122nd
Streets in Manhattan.
Background on the International Day of Peace:
The International Day of Peace, established by a
United Nations resolution in 1981 to coincide with
the opening of the General Assembly, was first
celebrated on the third Tuesday of September,
in 1982. In 2002, the UN General Assembly set
21 September as the permanent date for the
International Day of Peace. The resolution provides
an opportunity for individuals, organizations and
nations to create practical acts of peace on a shared
date. •BP•
“If our young people are to put down knives and guns, and
cease the violence in the streets, then we—their mothers
and fathers, their legislators and judges, their preachers and
teachers—must lead them as examples of peace. And, in the
words of my father, ‘We must awaken our young people to their
history and to their humanity.’” Ilyasah Shabazz, author of Growing Up X
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE33
You’re Hired!Former Academic Superstar, Winner of The Apprentice 4, CEO of a Multi-Million Dollar Business and Author Shares Some of his Wisdom and Advice on How to Succeed in Business and as an Entrepreneur.
Dr. Randal Pinkett
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE34
BEING on the reality-TV show
The Apprentice was all
my wife’s idea. Zahara downloaded the application
for candidates from NBC’s website and put it on my
desk. I put it on the pile of things I’m always mean-
ing to get to. “No, really,” she said, as she rescued it
from the pile. “Fill it out.”
After making it through an audition process that
included on-camera interviews, physical and psy-
chological tests (they said I have the personality of a
Navy Seal), and a boardroom-style interview with Mr.
Trump himself, I was told to pack my bags and head
to New York City in mid-April 2005.
Having watched the show, I was surprised by how
demanding our tasks turned out to be. It’s easy to be
a couch-potato critic and say, “Oh, I could do that.
That’s easy! What were you thinking??” Yet halfway
through the first task (designing a fitness course
for Bally Total Fitness), I was absolutely, positively
drained. We were running nonstop, my brain hurt,
my body was aching, and I simply wanted some rest.
And that was only the first task; I had 12 more to go
if I was fortunate enough to hang on.
A lot of tasks were out of my area of expertise. I’d
never done street marketing or sales, yet I found
myself project manager for the task of getting people
to call an 800 number to order samples of a new
perfume. On another task, I made a simple mistake.
Each team had to write a song, record it with an
unsigned musician, and air it on satellite radio. The
poster I produced promoting our team’s song had
a typo – the wrong channel number – for which I
took some heat in the boardroom (where Mr. Trump
reviews the contestants’ performances). I resolved
to pay greater attention to details and started proof-
reading everything left and right.
A few tasks played directly into my MIT experiences.
One week, we had to organize a tech expo for senior
citizens--a task almost tailor-made for me. For my
dissertation on the role of technology in underserved
communities, I’d studied how people new to technol-
ogy learn to apply it in their daily lives. And as a PhD
candidate at the Media Lab, you always have to be
prepared to sell, explain, or provide a quick demo
of your work. My experience in Sloan’s Leaders for
Manufacturing program helped, too, since that was
very much about working in teams. Just being at MIT,
surrounded by intelligent, accomplished people, was
definitely great preparation for being on the show.
Between tasks, the contestants had a little time to
relax in the suite we shared during the taping of the
show and get to know each other. It was like a big
slumber party at times. But we were all mindful of the
fact that we were still adversaries: anything you say
can and will be used against you in the boardroom.
Also, the cameras were always on us, even while
we were sleeping. At first it was a bit unnerving, and
I played it a little safe; I wasn’t going to let my hair
Apprentice winner Randal Pinkett with Donald Trump. (Credit: NBC Entertainment Photo:Virginia Sherwood)
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE35
down with all of America watching. I just focused on
meeting deadlines, and eventually I got comfortable
with the cameras. In fact, when I got home, I had to
remind myself there were no cameras anymore--I
could do whatever I wanted.
We all reconvened for the final (live) episode in De-
cember. Mr. Trump hired me, but then asked whether
I thought the other finalist should be a cowinner. That
question had never been posed to a previous winner,
so I suspect Mr. Trump was going for the water-cool-
er effect. But he picked the wrong person to try it on.
The proposition of a tie was, to me, unacceptable. If
our performances had warranted a tie, I’d certainly
have been willing to consider it. And if he wanted to
hire the other finalist the next day, he could. But as I
told him on the air, the show is called “The Appren-
tice,” and I believe that I earned it. He agreed. As his
apprentice, I’m now managing renovations of three
properties in Atlantic City, overseeing an IT project,
and helping with community relations for a develop-
ment project in Philadelphia.
Mr. Trump is not that different as a real-world boss
from the way he is on the show. He’s tough when he
has to be tough, but he’s also got a witty side. It’s
been fascinating to be at the table where million-dol-
lar decisions are being made, and to see how partic-
ular he is about how he allocates his time. Watching
him in action is a good lesson in how to set priorities
and be realistic about what you can’t get done. If
you’re not happy in life, you have nobody to blame
but yourself.
AUDITIONING FOR “THE APPRENTICE”
When I looked at the application for “The Apprentice”
candidates that my wife, Zahara, had downloaded
for me, I saw that it was short. I figured I had nothing
to lose, so I filled it out and made a 10-minute audi-
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE36
tion video, rather than have to show up for a casting
call. A month later, I got called to New York for an
on-camera interview. They fired questions at me, but
I handled it well since I’m a pretty collected guy; it
takes a lot to really unravel me. After a background
check, I was one of 50 people summoned to Los
Angeles for a week to vie for 18 slots in the final
round of casting.
In LA, we were subjected to a battery of physical
and psychological tests, after which some people
were sent home. I was told I had the personality of
a Navy Seal: under pressure and very, very extreme
conditions, I can remain focused and unrattled. (I’ve
always been that way; as a kid with severe allergies,
I didn’t flinch when I got upwards of 50 shots every
other week.) After one-on-one, boardroom-style inter-
views with Donald Trump and the show’s producer,
Mark Burnett, those of us who were cast were told to
pack and report to New York City in two weeks.
Intellectually, the selection process to become a
Rhodes Scholar was the most challenging thing I’ve
ever done. But the combination of physical and intel-
lectual demands of being on “The Apprentice”--no
sleep, living (and competing) with hypercompetitive
people, having the cameras rolling 24 x 7, running
through New York City trying to finish tasks under
incredibly tight deadlines--was uniquely stressful.
But still, it was a lot of fun. I love challenges and this
gave me plenty. In the process, I learned a lot about
group dynamics and how much can really get ac-
complished in a short period of time.
“Mr. Trump is not that different as a real-
world boss... Watching him in action is a
good lesson in how to set priorities and be
realistic about what you can’t get done.”
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE37
HOT OFF THE PRESS PINKETT PENS
MUST READ BOOK
FOR YOUNG
LEADERS
Google. Yahoo! You-
Tube. Student Ad-
vantage. Facebook.
The list of successful
businesses started by
college students con-
tinues to grow. How-
ever, while nearly
two-thirds of college
students say they
intend to become
entrepreneurs at
some point in their
careers, 75% of
educators say their
students have
no idea where to
start.
Dr. Pinkett’s new book entitled Campus CEO: The
Student Entrepreneur’s Guide To Launching A
Multimillion Dollar Business (Kaplan Publishing, Febru-
ary 2007), aims to give these students the tools and
advice they need to get their ventures started and to
grow them successfully.
Campus CEO is rooted in Pinkett’s experiences as a
student entrepreneur at Rutgers, a Rhodes scholar, a
MBA/Ph.D. student at MIT, a winner of the fourth
In an era of rising tuitions and
escalating student loans, Campus
CEO uses first-hand accounts to
demonstrate that students can form
businesses that not only defray the
costs of their education, but also
flourish long after graduation.
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE38
Apprentice, and currently as the CEO of BCT
Partners, a thriving consulting services firm. In the book,
he shows students how to take the entrepreneurial leap,
why it’s worthwhile, and how achievable starting and run-
ning a profitable campus-based business can be. Pinkett
shares his insights and profiles other successful Campus
CEOs, including current students and legendary leaders,
like Bill Gates, Russell Simmons and Michael Dell, who
established their companies while in school.
In an era of rising tuitions and escalating student loans,
Campus CEO uses first-hand accounts to demonstrate
that students can form businesses that not only defray
the costs of their education, but also flourish long after
graduation. Pinkett’s own profitable campus-based busi-
ness helped him to graduate from college completely
debt-free.
I firmly believe the entrepreneur’s mindset – of creativ-
ity, resourcefulness, courage, vision and perseverance
– is empowering and I hope to help foster that outlook in
talented young leaders,” said Pinkett. Pinkett will return
to “the boardroom” in March when he will appear as a
guest judge on The Apprentice.
“It’s imperative that the student entrepreneur uses all
resources available to him or her. Not only does Randal
Pinkett’s Campus CEO identify such resources, but it
also gives you key information to maintain a healthy
educational and financial future.”
-Earl G. Graves Sr., Founder, Chairman and Publisher,
Black Enterprise Magazine
.
To help support student entrepreneurs and give them an
opportunity to showcase their talents, Pinkett held the
Most Promising Campus CEO contest. The contest
winners was revealed during a Web based event at the
end of February. The first place winner received a grand
prize worth more than $20,000. For more information
about the book and the contest, visit www.campusceo.
com.
ABOUT DR. RANDAL PINKETT
Randal Pinkett made history by becoming the first
African-American to win The Apprentice. He is a
nationally recognized expert in business and technol-
ogy and a sought-after motivational speaker on the
subjects of management, career planning and the
value of a college education.
Pinkett holds five degrees, including a Bachelor of
Science in Electrical Engineering degree from Rut-
gers University, a Master of Science in Computer
Science from Oxford University in England; a Master
of Science in Electrical Engineering; and MBA and
Ph.D. degrees from MIT.
He is currently the Chairman and CEO of BCT Part-
ners, a multimillion dollar management, technology
and policy consulting firm based in Newark, NJ. He
has received numerous awards and was identified by
Ebony Magazine as one of their “30 Leaders Under
30.” •BP•
“Randal is a business-savvy scholar. He knows how to make the most of his time, which is a crucial lesson for all aspiring entre-preneurs. Randal’s book is based on experi-ence, and I would recommend it to anyone in or out of school.” Donald J. Trump
“Our education system produces employees – that’s why Campus CEO will create more millionaires!” Robert Kiyosaki, entrepreneur, investor, educator, and author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE41
IN honor of Black History Month, General
Motors recognized the important contri-
butions African Americans have made to
the success of the company. GM’s efforts to diver-
sify the ranks of management date back to 1915,
when Percy Lee Gardner became the first known
African American to hold a managerial position in the
automotive industry. Nearly a century later, African
Americans are at the forefront of the dramatic trans-
formation of GM’s product portfolio.
AFRICAN AMERICANS AT THE FOREFRONT Dramatic Transformations Taking Place in General Motor’s Product
Portfolio with Input of African American Managers & Product Designers
GM’S CHEVROLET CAMARO
CONCEPT CAR
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE42
ED WELBURN –
GM VICE PRESIDENT, GLOBAL DESIGN
When Ed Welburn was named vice president, GM
Design, he became the leader of an organization
that is both steeped in heritage and leading a global
revolution. Only the sixth person to lead GM Design
in its 75-year history, Welburn is also the first African
American to lead a major automotive design house.
GM’s design organization, established in 1927 by
Harley Earl, was one of the world’s first, revolution-
izing the car business. GM’s Art and Colour Section,
as it was called, developed the customer pleasing
designs and bold new colors that helped a young
General Motors move into industry leadership. GM
Design is now global, with 11 design centers in eight
countries working around the clock on GM products
that compete in every region of the world.
Starting out as a kid from Philadelphia who loved to
draw cars, Welburn attended Howard University and
interned at GM Design under Bill Mitchell, another
GM legend. After joining GM full-time in 1972, he de-
signed everything from auto show concepts to family
cars and trucks to world-speed record vehicles. He
was named vice president of GM North America
Design in 2003, and appointed GM vice president,
Global Design in March 2005, when GM Design
officially became a global organization.
Welburn began his GM career as an associate
designer assigned to the Advanced Design Studios.
In 1973, he joined the Buick Exterior Studio and in
1975, he was assigned to the Oldsmobile Exterior
Studio. Thanks in part to his passion for Chapar-
rals, Indy Cars and endurance racers, Welburn was
tapped to lead the design of the Oldsmobile Aerotech
speed record vehicle. With the legendary A. J. Foyt,
Jr. behind the wheel, Aerotech set a world closed-
course speed record of more than 257 miles per hour
in 1987.
Welburn was named chief designer of the Oldsmobile
Studio in 1989. Projects there included the Oldsmobile
Antares concept car and the Oldsmobile Intrigue, both
of which received AutoWeek magazine awards at the
North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Following an assignment in Germany, Welburn was
named director of GM’s Advanced Design Studio in
Warren, Michigan, in 1998. His team was responsible
for the development of new and innovative vehicles
for all GM brands. Welburn’s team also led the
development of GM concept vehicles, including the
Chevy SSR and the Chevy Bel Air, as well as a new
Welburn attended Howard University and interned at GM
Design under Bill Mitchell, another GM legend. After joining GM full-time in 1972, he designed
everything from auto show concepts to family cars and trucks to world-speed record vehicles.
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE43
generation of hydrogen fuel cell concepts, the GM
AUTOnomy and Hy-wire.
Welburn was appointed executive director of design,
body-on-frame architectures in January 2002, with
responsibility for the three truck studios at the GM
Design Center. Projects included the Hummer H3
and the latest generation of full-size trucks, including
the 2007 Cadillac Escalade and Chevy Tahoe.
As vice president of global design for GM, Welburn
leads a global design organization of more than 1400
people working in 11 locations around the world.
These creative teams are developing new genera-
tions of cars and trucks that are leading a design-
driven renaissance at GM. As part of this effort, they
also created an award-winning family of concept
cars for the 2005-06 auto show season, including
the Opel Antara GTC, Saab Aero-X, Holden Efijy and
Chevy Camaro Concept.
In addition to leading GM’s global design organiza-
tion, Welburn is GM’s key executive to Howard Uni-
versity and serves on the board of governors at the
Cranbrook Institute of Science and on the board of
directors of the LeMay Museum. Welburn has honors
and special recognition from Rainbow PUSH, African
Americans on Wheels and Black Enterprise. He was
named the 2004 Howard University Alumni of the
Year.
Welburn takes inspiration from many creative outlets,
including music, cooking, architecture and fashion
design. In fact, he has designed a number of his own
suits. He also enjoys spending time with family and
friends. He owns a 1969 Camaro SS that helped
inspire the Camaro Concept.
A native of Philadelphia, Welburn received a bache-
lor’s degree from the College of Fine Arts at Howard
University in Washington, D.C., where he studied
sculpture and product design.
MICHAEL BURTON –
GM DESIGN DIRECTOR
Michael Burton grew up in the inner city of Lansing,
Michigan. It was a GM town where Oldsmobiles
rolled off the assembly line, where many of Burton’s
family members worked. For him, automobiles were
a family tradition and an American alphabet soup
literally. Burton practiced spelling by reading the
backs of cars as they drove down his street C-H-E-
V-R-O-L-E-T or B-U-I-C-K or O-L-D-S-M-O-B-I-L-E.
When he wasn’t spelling them, he was drawing them.
Burton always knew what he wanted to do.
When he was barely in his teens, Burton wrote a
letter to GM and included some of his sketches. He
never thought he’d hear back. But he did. One of
GM’s HR representatives wrote a personal letter
encouraging him to keep drawing, along with advice
about how to break into the car design business. It
was advice Burton took to heart.
Not too many years later, he attended the Center for
Creative Studies on a four-year scholarship and then
Michael Burton with Tiger Woods
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE44
went on to get his master’s degree. After graduating,
he worked at Ford and then became the first African
American designer at Chrysler.
Burton learned cars from the outside in. When he
joined GM in 1999, he was a lead designer on the
exteriors of the Cadillac SRX and STS. Then he
worked on both exteriors and interiors when he be-
came design manager for GM’s prestige and perfor-
mance platforms, which include the Cadillac SRX,
XLR and STS. He is currently director of interior de-
sign, responsible for the front-wheel-drive platforms
for GMC, Saturn and Buick.
Burton’ passion for art and design is evident in all
aspects of his life. He is an accomplished songwriter,
vocalist and musician. He even wrote, composed and
performed the songs for his wedding and designed
the wedding altar. When it comes to men’s fashion,
Burton is also a tough act to follow, according to his
co-workers. Where his heart truly lies, though, is with
his church, where he presides as its minister. Burton
is definitely a man of many talents.
CRYSTAL WINDHAM –
GM DESIGN MANAGER
Crystal Windham has spent much of her life in Detroit
and all of her professional life with GM Design with
one small exception. As a student at the College for
THE BLACK PERSPECTIVE45
Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit, Windham interned
for Ford in the summer of 1992. But since then, includ-
ing a 1993 internship, she has been involved with GM
Design.
After graduating from CCS in 1994 with a degree in
Industrial Design, Windham began her career at GM
on a rotational assignment that allowed her to work on
the Oldsmobile, Pontiac, Chevrolet and Saturn brands.
Following a production-oriented design project, Crystal
accepted a yearlong assignment in Russelsheim, Ger-
many, where she worked on the team exploring shar-
ing internal and external design components globally.
Windham returned to the U.S. in 1998 as lead designer
for the 2004 Malibu and Malibu Maxx interiors, where
she ushered the vehicles from conception through
production.
She earned an MBA in 2002, and was promoted to
design manager for mid-size car interiors. Her assign-
ments there have included work on the 2006 G-6 coupe
and convertible, the 2007 Saturn Aura and the 2008
Chevrolet Malibu.She takes tremendous satisfaction
in her work at GM. “As designers, we’ve been empow-
ered”, Windham said. “There is an exciting renaissance
of design going on at GM and I am thrilled to be a part
of it.”
As one of GM’s top young designers, she finds the rich
diversity of GM’s design teams one of the company’s
great strengths. “The diversity of our teams reflects the
diversity of our global customer base. It is exciting to be
part of such a dynamic company whose products are
recognized all over the world as stylish and innovative,”
she says. “I am proud to be a part of it.”
Outside work, Windham is passionate about glass
blowing, an activity that allows her a different form of
creative expression from her work at GM. •BP•
