Do your part by responsibly donating unneeded items.
It’s spring-cleaning time and with that comes your yearly clutter purge. But before you start tossing unneeded items in the trash, consider putting them to better use. From eyewear and electronics to clothes and furniture, the following organizations accept a wide range of basic and unexpected goods that can benefit others in need. Plus you’ll be helping to keep these items out of landfills, and, in many cases, you could get something that’s hard to pass up—a tax deduction.
1. Athletic shoes
At Nike Reuse-A-Shoe facilities, worn-out sneakers (of any make or brand) are broken down and converted into usable materials for new, top-of-the-line athletic surfaces for communities in need. Visit Nike Reuse-A-Shoe for shipping instructions or to find a drop-off location near you.
2. Books
Through Books for Soldiers, you can send “care packages for the mind” to troops stationed overseas—providing priceless respite from undoubtedly tough surroundings. Another organization that will help free up your bookshelves is Books To Prisoners, which encourages rehabilitation through reading. Or do what member Helen R. (Londonderry, NH) does and recycle old books, CDs and DVDs in your community by donating them to local libraries.
3. Cell phones and electronics
The handy brand-by-brand guide on greenergadgets.com offers resources for recycling various types of electronic devices; it includes an extensive, useful section on cell phones. Phones 4 Charity reprograms used phones for basic communication and safety use in the U.S. and developing countries, while Cell Phones for Soldiers provides phones for soldiers wanting to call home—certainly worthy reasons to dig through your closet for that old phone you’ll never use again. Just be sure to clear your personal information before sending it out. (See sidebar.)
4. Eyeglasses
Your unused or outdated eyeglasses could give someone clearer vision for the first time in his or her life. Lions Clubs International offers a kit that makes it easy for you to mail them out. Because glasses are fragile, and you want them to travel through the mail without breaking, it’s best to wrap them in a small sheet of protective bubble wrap and then tuck them into an easy-to-close Ziploc® Brand Storage Bag.
5. Furniture
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America will put old furniture to use in one of their many youth-mentoring program centers. Visit their site to find your local chapter. Goodwill Industries is another option—and will actually pick up furniture that you can’t transport yourself.
Note: Donated furniture must be in good, presentable condition. Surface imperfections and wear are okay, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply a bit of TLC before giving it away. A quick pass with Pledge® Multi Surface Wipes easily removes dust, fingerprints, smudges and smears from furniture surfaces.
6. Office wear
Local charitable thrift shops and Goodwill are great for donating your unneeded clothing, but a more urgent need is for clothes appropriate for the workplace. Dress for Success collects women’s office attire for economically disadvantaged women, giving them the opportunity to re-enter the workforce with renewed confidence. Each woman receives one suit for interviewing and a second when she gets a job. A similar charity for men is Career Gear.
Note: The latter two charities accept only clothing in good-enough condition to wear to an interview, so be sure to launder or dry-clean garments before donating. Treat any stains on colorfast washables with super-concentrated Shout® Advanced Gel. It’s specially formulated to tackle stubborn, set-in stains and works great on everyday stains, too.
7. Other unneeded items
Most of your unneeded items that are still useful or in good shape will be welcome at your local thrift shop. Or as members Joanne W. (Palm Harbor, FL) and Greer D. (Ozark, AR) recommend, try Freecycle.org—a worldwide gifting movement that saves useful resources from landfills while providing items for free to community members in need. Join your local group to start giving.
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Thursday, April 30, 2009
Monday, April 13, 2009
Surviving a Job You Hate!
Having a job you hate is never an easy thing to deal with, but sometimes you just need to grin and bear it until you have another gig lined up. Whether you're currently stuck because you just have to pay the bills or are holding out for the next great opportunity, here are some ways to get through the day:
Set weekly goals for yourself.
Sometimes it is easier to make it to 5 o'clock when you can keep your eye on the prize. Even if you hate your job now, there is something out there that will make you happy. Make weekly goals to help you find that golden opportunity. One week you might strive to send out five resumes or attend one networking event. Setting these goals will give you something to work toward.
Do one thing each day to help you reach your goals.
You don't need to cross all your goals off your list every day, but you can chip away daily. When you get up in the morning, set a daily objective for yourself and make sure you achieve it. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and keep you feeling good about your progress.
Give yourself "me time" before work.
Going into a job you hate will be worse if you get to the office feeling rushed, stressed and frazzled. Set aside some moments of solitude each morning.
Develop a positive morning ritual.
Treat yourself to a latte, get up early enough to read the paper, or just set your alarm to play upbeat music when you wake up. Improving your mornings can do wonders for the rest of your day.
Create a diversion for yourself in the office.
Does being in your office make you yearn for the outdoors? Are the incessant ringing phones driving you batty? Do something to brighten your mood while you're at work. Take in a tropical picture and use it as your screensaver. Buy yourself a "joke of the day" desk calendar. Plug headphones into your computer or bring your iPod to work. Go out for lunch.
Use your time to develop your skills.
Hating your job doesn't mean you can't learn new skills. Use your time to make yourself a better candidate down the road. If your company offers training courses, take advantage of them. Use downtime to learn something new on your computer. Pick up a management development book and read it at lunch. Turn this job into an opportunity for self-improvement.
Blow off some steam.
Most people have an activity that helps them unwind and get rid of tension. Go for a run after work, go swimming on your lunch hour, or take a nice long walk. Put this activity on your schedule so you will have something to look forward to every day.
Treat yourself.
To make up for your office misery, find little ways of treating yourself. Buy a good book to read. Treat yourself to ice cream. Buy some flowers. Shop for a new interview suit. Plan your next vacation. Find out what makes you feel better inside, no matter what is going on outside.
Maintain your performance.
It is important to continue to do your work and do it well, regardless of your current situation. Set personal performance goals. Then use the accomplishments in future interviews.
Keep your bridges intact.
It really is a small world, and you never know when you will run into co-workers from your past. Don't burn any bridges at your company because you are unhappy. Maintain your contacts and keep your relationships positive. You might just need a reference or a good word from one of your colleagues in the future.
Realize that this too shall pass.
Right now, it might seem like you will be stuck in this job forever. Keep your chin up and remind yourself that you are in charge of your destiny. Search internal postings for new positions. Start your search for a new job externally.
www.careerbuilder.com
Set weekly goals for yourself.
Sometimes it is easier to make it to 5 o'clock when you can keep your eye on the prize. Even if you hate your job now, there is something out there that will make you happy. Make weekly goals to help you find that golden opportunity. One week you might strive to send out five resumes or attend one networking event. Setting these goals will give you something to work toward.
Do one thing each day to help you reach your goals.
You don't need to cross all your goals off your list every day, but you can chip away daily. When you get up in the morning, set a daily objective for yourself and make sure you achieve it. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and keep you feeling good about your progress.
Give yourself "me time" before work.
Going into a job you hate will be worse if you get to the office feeling rushed, stressed and frazzled. Set aside some moments of solitude each morning.
Develop a positive morning ritual.
Treat yourself to a latte, get up early enough to read the paper, or just set your alarm to play upbeat music when you wake up. Improving your mornings can do wonders for the rest of your day.
Create a diversion for yourself in the office.
Does being in your office make you yearn for the outdoors? Are the incessant ringing phones driving you batty? Do something to brighten your mood while you're at work. Take in a tropical picture and use it as your screensaver. Buy yourself a "joke of the day" desk calendar. Plug headphones into your computer or bring your iPod to work. Go out for lunch.
Use your time to develop your skills.
Hating your job doesn't mean you can't learn new skills. Use your time to make yourself a better candidate down the road. If your company offers training courses, take advantage of them. Use downtime to learn something new on your computer. Pick up a management development book and read it at lunch. Turn this job into an opportunity for self-improvement.
Blow off some steam.
Most people have an activity that helps them unwind and get rid of tension. Go for a run after work, go swimming on your lunch hour, or take a nice long walk. Put this activity on your schedule so you will have something to look forward to every day.
Treat yourself.
To make up for your office misery, find little ways of treating yourself. Buy a good book to read. Treat yourself to ice cream. Buy some flowers. Shop for a new interview suit. Plan your next vacation. Find out what makes you feel better inside, no matter what is going on outside.
Maintain your performance.
It is important to continue to do your work and do it well, regardless of your current situation. Set personal performance goals. Then use the accomplishments in future interviews.
Keep your bridges intact.
It really is a small world, and you never know when you will run into co-workers from your past. Don't burn any bridges at your company because you are unhappy. Maintain your contacts and keep your relationships positive. You might just need a reference or a good word from one of your colleagues in the future.
Realize that this too shall pass.
Right now, it might seem like you will be stuck in this job forever. Keep your chin up and remind yourself that you are in charge of your destiny. Search internal postings for new positions. Start your search for a new job externally.
www.careerbuilder.com
Recession-proof Jobs
1. Registered nurse
Resistant reason: Nurses are always in demand, recession or not. People will continue to get sick and seek medical attention no matter what the state of the economy, which ought to give RNs sound job security.
Training needed: A bachelor's or associate degree in nursing, plus completion of an approved nursing program. RNs must also complete a national licensing examination to obtain a nursing license. Further training or education qualifies nurses to work in specialty areas.
Growth through 2016*: 23.5 percent
Salary**: $46,242
2. Public relations specialist
Resistant reason: As advertising budgets are sliced and other marketing efforts are nixed to cut costs, many companies will rely solely on their public relations departments to promote the company brand. Additionally, as rumors spread about layoffs, bailouts and bankruptcy, PR specialists are needed more than ever to put out these fires along the way.
Training needed: A college degree in a communications-related field like journalism or advertising is helpful, though not necessary. If you lack a degree, employers will look for demonstrated communication skills.
Growth through 2016: 18 percent
Salary: $41,549
3. Teacher, post-secondary
Resistant reason: Since it's becoming harder to score a job, people are riding out the recession by going back to school. Furthermore, workers and job seekers alike are earning higher education to increase their marketability in the work force.
Training needed: Training varies based on the subject you teach and where you teach it. Four-year colleges and universities, however, usually require candidates to hold a doctoral degree for full-time, tenure-track positions.
Growth through 2016: 23 percent
Salary: $46,991
4. Police officer
Resistant reason: First, police officers are employed by the government, which definitely doesn't hurt job security. Second, the sad fact is that crime happens every day and the economy isn't helping. Desperate times call for desperate measures, which for some people include stealing and other offenses -- in some areas, police officers are busier than ever.
Training needed: Law enforcement agencies encourage applicants to take courses or training related to law enforcement subjects after high school. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, usually at least 20 years old, and must meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Growth through 2016: 11 percent
Salary: $49,288
5. Insurance sales agent
Resistant reason: Though many Americans are on a tight budget, people are generally willing to spend money on the big stuff, such as coverage for natural disasters, health-care expenses and automobile accidents. With so many people losing their jobs -- leaving them uninsured as a result -- insurance sales agents have a larger client pool to work with.
Training needed: You have to have a state license to sell insurance; requirements vary by state, but generally require insurance-related course work and passing several exams. A college degree is not required, but is strongly encouraged.
Growth through 2016: 13 percent
Salary: $39,656
6. Pharmacy technician
Resistant reason: As the population ages, people probably will need more medication, as do the many people suffering from depression and anxiety as a result of the recession. Plus, many people have health-care coverage of some kind, even with the downturn, which makes it possible for people to continue to pay for medications.
Training needed: Most are trained on the job, but employers prefer applicants who have formal training, certification or previous experience.
Growth through 2016: 32 percent
Salary: $28,624
7. Funeral director
Resistant reason: Death is a fact of life. No matter what the economy does, people will continue to pass away and families will continue to grieve while seeking assistance to plan services for their loved ones.
Training needed: Every state requires that funeral directors are licensed. State licensing laws vary, but most require you to be 21 years old, have two years of formal education, serve a one-year apprenticeship and pass an examination.
Growth through 2016: 12 percent
Salary: $87,383
8. Environmental science technician
Resistant reason: The Obama administration plans to create 5 million "green" jobs over the next 10 years. Despite a slowing economy, a large percentage of the U.S. work force continues to dedicate itself to the environment.
Training needed: Most environmental science technicians need an associate degree or certificate in applied science or science-related technology. Technicians with a high school diploma and no college degree typically begin work under the direct supervision of an experienced technician and eventually earn a two-year degree in science technology.
Growth through 2016: 28 percent
Salary: $36,655
9. Network systems and data communications analyst
Resistant reason: Many technology-based positions can be performed by outsourcing, but certain technology workers, such as network systems and data communications analysts, must deal with problems onsite.
Training needed: An associate degree or certificate is sufficient, although more advanced positions might require a computer-related bachelor's degree.
Growth through 2016: 53.4 percent
Salary: $40,827 and $71,637, respectively
10. Fast-food worker
Resistant reason: Unfortunately, fast food is all some people can afford these days. While so many other companies saw a decrease in sales and income last year, McDonalds, for example, saw global sales increase 6.9 percent throughout 2008, and its operational income increased 14 percent.
Training needed: No previous training is needed for this position; on-the-job training is provided.
Growth through 2016: 17 percent
Salary: $16,568
www.careerbuilder.com
Resistant reason: Nurses are always in demand, recession or not. People will continue to get sick and seek medical attention no matter what the state of the economy, which ought to give RNs sound job security.
Training needed: A bachelor's or associate degree in nursing, plus completion of an approved nursing program. RNs must also complete a national licensing examination to obtain a nursing license. Further training or education qualifies nurses to work in specialty areas.
Growth through 2016*: 23.5 percent
Salary**: $46,242
2. Public relations specialist
Resistant reason: As advertising budgets are sliced and other marketing efforts are nixed to cut costs, many companies will rely solely on their public relations departments to promote the company brand. Additionally, as rumors spread about layoffs, bailouts and bankruptcy, PR specialists are needed more than ever to put out these fires along the way.
Training needed: A college degree in a communications-related field like journalism or advertising is helpful, though not necessary. If you lack a degree, employers will look for demonstrated communication skills.
Growth through 2016: 18 percent
Salary: $41,549
3. Teacher, post-secondary
Resistant reason: Since it's becoming harder to score a job, people are riding out the recession by going back to school. Furthermore, workers and job seekers alike are earning higher education to increase their marketability in the work force.
Training needed: Training varies based on the subject you teach and where you teach it. Four-year colleges and universities, however, usually require candidates to hold a doctoral degree for full-time, tenure-track positions.
Growth through 2016: 23 percent
Salary: $46,991
4. Police officer
Resistant reason: First, police officers are employed by the government, which definitely doesn't hurt job security. Second, the sad fact is that crime happens every day and the economy isn't helping. Desperate times call for desperate measures, which for some people include stealing and other offenses -- in some areas, police officers are busier than ever.
Training needed: Law enforcement agencies encourage applicants to take courses or training related to law enforcement subjects after high school. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, usually at least 20 years old, and must meet rigorous physical and personal qualifications.
Growth through 2016: 11 percent
Salary: $49,288
5. Insurance sales agent
Resistant reason: Though many Americans are on a tight budget, people are generally willing to spend money on the big stuff, such as coverage for natural disasters, health-care expenses and automobile accidents. With so many people losing their jobs -- leaving them uninsured as a result -- insurance sales agents have a larger client pool to work with.
Training needed: You have to have a state license to sell insurance; requirements vary by state, but generally require insurance-related course work and passing several exams. A college degree is not required, but is strongly encouraged.
Growth through 2016: 13 percent
Salary: $39,656
6. Pharmacy technician
Resistant reason: As the population ages, people probably will need more medication, as do the many people suffering from depression and anxiety as a result of the recession. Plus, many people have health-care coverage of some kind, even with the downturn, which makes it possible for people to continue to pay for medications.
Training needed: Most are trained on the job, but employers prefer applicants who have formal training, certification or previous experience.
Growth through 2016: 32 percent
Salary: $28,624
7. Funeral director
Resistant reason: Death is a fact of life. No matter what the economy does, people will continue to pass away and families will continue to grieve while seeking assistance to plan services for their loved ones.
Training needed: Every state requires that funeral directors are licensed. State licensing laws vary, but most require you to be 21 years old, have two years of formal education, serve a one-year apprenticeship and pass an examination.
Growth through 2016: 12 percent
Salary: $87,383
8. Environmental science technician
Resistant reason: The Obama administration plans to create 5 million "green" jobs over the next 10 years. Despite a slowing economy, a large percentage of the U.S. work force continues to dedicate itself to the environment.
Training needed: Most environmental science technicians need an associate degree or certificate in applied science or science-related technology. Technicians with a high school diploma and no college degree typically begin work under the direct supervision of an experienced technician and eventually earn a two-year degree in science technology.
Growth through 2016: 28 percent
Salary: $36,655
9. Network systems and data communications analyst
Resistant reason: Many technology-based positions can be performed by outsourcing, but certain technology workers, such as network systems and data communications analysts, must deal with problems onsite.
Training needed: An associate degree or certificate is sufficient, although more advanced positions might require a computer-related bachelor's degree.
Growth through 2016: 53.4 percent
Salary: $40,827 and $71,637, respectively
10. Fast-food worker
Resistant reason: Unfortunately, fast food is all some people can afford these days. While so many other companies saw a decrease in sales and income last year, McDonalds, for example, saw global sales increase 6.9 percent throughout 2008, and its operational income increased 14 percent.
Training needed: No previous training is needed for this position; on-the-job training is provided.
Growth through 2016: 17 percent
Salary: $16,568
www.careerbuilder.com
Black Scholars To Know
1) Dr. Marc Lamont Hill (Columbia University) – Marc impresses me as the brightest young mind of the 21st century. Marc is not just as sharp as a butcher knife, he is also a true brother who really understands the problems of the Black community. I cannot tell you how much Marc struggled to build his career, it was tough to watch. But Marc is not just brilliant, he represents the essence of that concept called “Survival of the fittest”. The best is yet to come.
2) Peniel Joseph (Harvard University/Brandeis University) – Peniel, who wrote a book on Barack Obama recently, is not just a brilliant scholar, but a great person. His work is second to none and his analysis on PBS is right on point.
3) Cornel West (Princeton) – Who can forget Cornel? Our great academic father deserves respect for opening the door to the possibility of pursuing true Black scholarship that is relevant to the world around us. Cornel’s battles at Harvard prepared me for the challenges I would encounter here at Syracuse. This man will be in the history books and he deserves to be there.
4) Michael Eric Dyson (Georgetown University) – Michael (we call him “Mike”) was the reason I became a publicly engaged scholar in the first place. I remember watching him on BET in the 90s with my jaws dropped, saying, “Damn, I wanna be like that guy!” While I eventually developed my own style (Mike and I differ in many ways), I can say that Michael’s commitment to hip hop culture and his amazing swagger simply cannot be stolen or emulated.
5) Dr. Fritz Polite (U. Tennessee) – Fritz is one of the leading advocates for Black male athletes in America. He also carries the kind of strong and assertive style that should embody all progressive Black male intellectuals. Many of us have the ability to be strong, but we choose to walk in fear and silence. Fritz does no such thing.
6) Dr. Billy Hawkins (U. Georgia) – Billy’s recent commentary about Black male athletes was one of the most powerful and poignant statements I’ve seen in a while. I love it when Black men attack an issue head-on, instead of skirting around it for fear of losing our jobs. In order for there to be progress, men must be willing to take the lead. The fight is not with our muscles, it is with our minds. Intellectual athletes like Billy Hawkins are far more impactful than Black male professional athletes, who have unfortunately relegated themselves to psychological and financial slavery.
7) Dr. Juan Gilbert (U. Auburn/Clemson University) – President of the Brothers of the Academy (the largest group of Black male PhDs in America), Juan is an amazing visionary and a powerful guide to young Black students. He is also one of the premier computer scientists in the world and a highly impactful scholar.
8) Dr. Julianne Malveaux (President – Bennett College) – The only thing you can say about Julianne is “deeyamm”. She, along with Michael Eric Dyson, were the two greatest reasons for my becoming a publicly engaged scholar. Also, as the only other publicly engaged scholar who deals with Financial issues, I have learned a lot from Julianne as a mentor, colleague and friend.
9) Dr. Wilmer Leon (Howard University) – Wilmer is the host of “On with Leon”, an XM satellite radio show. As an expert in Black Political History, Wilmer has been highly impactful when it comes to educating the Black community on critical socio-political issues. His meticulous, educational style of information sharing should be given a larger platform.
10) Dr. Christopher Metzler (Georgetown University) – Chris wrote an article about Academic Imperialism that simply knocked my socks off. I called Chris on the phone to talk with him, and found him to be the kind of Black scholar we need in America today. Educated at Oxford, Chris has exactly the type of global perspective that we need from African American intellectuals.
Honorable mention: I hate the fact that these individuals are not on the top 10 list, but I will mention their work regardless. Not being on the list does not imply, for one second, that their work is any less worthy than anyone else I've mentioned:
- Dr. Jeremiah Wright - This man has given a great deal to our nation, namely by serving in the military while his critics hid in shame when it was time to stand up and fight. At no time was his service to our nation greater than during the Obama campaign, in which he became its single greatest casualty. Dr. Wright was fighting against apartheid before it became fashionable to do so and was putting his life on the line when President Obama was in diapers. He should be right there at the top of the list and I will respect him until I am dead.
- Dr. Bell Hooks - one of the most prolific scholars and amazing educators in the history of the world. She is reclusive and a bit mysterious, but I love her like a relative. In fact, she is actually the aunt of my cousin, which pretty much makes us related huh? (Our last names are actually the same, since she is a Watkins too. But I think that's just a coincidence).
- Dr. Derrick Bell - This Harvard Law Professor wrote a book about his fight to get professors hired at The Harvard Law School during the 1980s. It was one of the most inspirational books I've ever read.
- Dr. Na'im Akbar - (Florida State University) - An absolute monster. He gave a speech at The University of Kentucky in 1995 that knocked me out. I can only imagine how much hell they've given him in the south and the fact that he has stood up to this scrutiny has been a source of inspiration.
Ok, that’s “Boyce’s Top Ten”. I created this list based on the scholarly impact of my colleagues, rather than how many publications they have in specific journals or the university with which they are affiliated. This is the kind of list that is built on courage. In my opinion, if you’re not out there doing YOUR thing, then you’re not out there doing ANY thing. We’ve spent all of our time doing THEIR thing, and now it’s time to start doing OUR thing.
-drboycespeaks.blogspot.com/2009/04/dr-boyces-top-10-black-public-scholars.html
2) Peniel Joseph (Harvard University/Brandeis University) – Peniel, who wrote a book on Barack Obama recently, is not just a brilliant scholar, but a great person. His work is second to none and his analysis on PBS is right on point.
3) Cornel West (Princeton) – Who can forget Cornel? Our great academic father deserves respect for opening the door to the possibility of pursuing true Black scholarship that is relevant to the world around us. Cornel’s battles at Harvard prepared me for the challenges I would encounter here at Syracuse. This man will be in the history books and he deserves to be there.
4) Michael Eric Dyson (Georgetown University) – Michael (we call him “Mike”) was the reason I became a publicly engaged scholar in the first place. I remember watching him on BET in the 90s with my jaws dropped, saying, “Damn, I wanna be like that guy!” While I eventually developed my own style (Mike and I differ in many ways), I can say that Michael’s commitment to hip hop culture and his amazing swagger simply cannot be stolen or emulated.
5) Dr. Fritz Polite (U. Tennessee) – Fritz is one of the leading advocates for Black male athletes in America. He also carries the kind of strong and assertive style that should embody all progressive Black male intellectuals. Many of us have the ability to be strong, but we choose to walk in fear and silence. Fritz does no such thing.
6) Dr. Billy Hawkins (U. Georgia) – Billy’s recent commentary about Black male athletes was one of the most powerful and poignant statements I’ve seen in a while. I love it when Black men attack an issue head-on, instead of skirting around it for fear of losing our jobs. In order for there to be progress, men must be willing to take the lead. The fight is not with our muscles, it is with our minds. Intellectual athletes like Billy Hawkins are far more impactful than Black male professional athletes, who have unfortunately relegated themselves to psychological and financial slavery.
7) Dr. Juan Gilbert (U. Auburn/Clemson University) – President of the Brothers of the Academy (the largest group of Black male PhDs in America), Juan is an amazing visionary and a powerful guide to young Black students. He is also one of the premier computer scientists in the world and a highly impactful scholar.
8) Dr. Julianne Malveaux (President – Bennett College) – The only thing you can say about Julianne is “deeyamm”. She, along with Michael Eric Dyson, were the two greatest reasons for my becoming a publicly engaged scholar. Also, as the only other publicly engaged scholar who deals with Financial issues, I have learned a lot from Julianne as a mentor, colleague and friend.
9) Dr. Wilmer Leon (Howard University) – Wilmer is the host of “On with Leon”, an XM satellite radio show. As an expert in Black Political History, Wilmer has been highly impactful when it comes to educating the Black community on critical socio-political issues. His meticulous, educational style of information sharing should be given a larger platform.
10) Dr. Christopher Metzler (Georgetown University) – Chris wrote an article about Academic Imperialism that simply knocked my socks off. I called Chris on the phone to talk with him, and found him to be the kind of Black scholar we need in America today. Educated at Oxford, Chris has exactly the type of global perspective that we need from African American intellectuals.
Honorable mention: I hate the fact that these individuals are not on the top 10 list, but I will mention their work regardless. Not being on the list does not imply, for one second, that their work is any less worthy than anyone else I've mentioned:
- Dr. Jeremiah Wright - This man has given a great deal to our nation, namely by serving in the military while his critics hid in shame when it was time to stand up and fight. At no time was his service to our nation greater than during the Obama campaign, in which he became its single greatest casualty. Dr. Wright was fighting against apartheid before it became fashionable to do so and was putting his life on the line when President Obama was in diapers. He should be right there at the top of the list and I will respect him until I am dead.
- Dr. Bell Hooks - one of the most prolific scholars and amazing educators in the history of the world. She is reclusive and a bit mysterious, but I love her like a relative. In fact, she is actually the aunt of my cousin, which pretty much makes us related huh? (Our last names are actually the same, since she is a Watkins too. But I think that's just a coincidence).
- Dr. Derrick Bell - This Harvard Law Professor wrote a book about his fight to get professors hired at The Harvard Law School during the 1980s. It was one of the most inspirational books I've ever read.
- Dr. Na'im Akbar - (Florida State University) - An absolute monster. He gave a speech at The University of Kentucky in 1995 that knocked me out. I can only imagine how much hell they've given him in the south and the fact that he has stood up to this scrutiny has been a source of inspiration.
Ok, that’s “Boyce’s Top Ten”. I created this list based on the scholarly impact of my colleagues, rather than how many publications they have in specific journals or the university with which they are affiliated. This is the kind of list that is built on courage. In my opinion, if you’re not out there doing YOUR thing, then you’re not out there doing ANY thing. We’ve spent all of our time doing THEIR thing, and now it’s time to start doing OUR thing.
-drboycespeaks.blogspot.com/2009/04/dr-boyces-top-10-black-public-scholars.html
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