Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr.

Interim President of Fisk University @Fisk1866

[Fisk University @Fisk1866]

We are so proud to announce the naming of our Social Justice Institute after the late Congressman and Fisk University Alumni John R. Lewis!
Click the link below to read the full story: https://t.co/hggW4wZLws

[Fisk University @Fisk1866]

The Fisk University Family mourns the loss of our brother Congressman John Lewis, a ‘Son Ever on the Altar.’ https://t.co/WXxtk3j3q2

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

I am incredibly saddened by the passing of Rep. John Lewis. His unceasing courage, leadership, and service beginning with the Civil Rights Movement are unrivaled. He was a trailblazer, icon, and role model to so many. A Fisk alum and an exemplary American. https://t.co/agiv7Hh3mE

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

Juneteenth. That is all. #FiskForever

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

I decided to write about what I have been feeling recently. Of course, these are my own words and should not be interpreted as Fisk University’s official stance on recent events. I’m a WordPress novice so go easy on me. https://t.co/dMTJ3i2X4O

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

...We always have and always will advocate for social justice. We will be hosting a community conversation for our students, faculty, and staff to talk about a holistic university response to what our nation faces right now. This is the moment. We plan to act. @Fisk1866

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

The last two weeks have been exceedingly tough for us all. I have been very reflective, introspective, and honestly disturbed. We want to make this unequivocal. Fisk University stands alongside those who are protesting against police brutality, systemic racism, and oppression...

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

Given rapidly changing events, and out of an abundance of caution, we will move to complete online course delivery and a virtual campus beginning Monday, March 16 until further notice. The safety and security of our students, faculty, and staff is our highest priority. @Fisk1866

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

@armynavymom @TammyGrblessed @Tennessean @MNPDNashville According to reports it was a one to one encounter and not active shooter, thankfully. Our on campus safety was aware and communicating with MNPD. It truly has been an unfortunate week in Nashville @Fisk1866

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

Today I am thankful. Today we are thankful. No students injured and campus was unscathed besides power outage. My home sustained a bit of damage but nothing like what I have seen in my neighborhood. My heart and prayers go out to the families that lost more, including loved ones.

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

@BBridgesPhD @UNCF @FISK1866 @DrMichaelLomax We appreciate the continued partnership and support! #FiskForever

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

Awesome week in Nashville preceding the culminating #MLKDay events. Ask yourself how to make the fire for justice last within you all year long. Ask yourself what Dr. King truly fought for. It was a broadband of civil rights which challenged social norms that still persist today

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

We continue to work diligently and have seen some gratifying results in the first two years. We are focused on outcomes and opportunities. Higher Education has changed, and our strategy must be nimble to adapt. #transformationtuesday https://t.co/z0i11qundO

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

@johnfaisonsr Thank you! It is definitely a team effort. We have amazing students and dedicated personnel. #FiskForever

[Jason Gonzales @ByJasonGonzales]

Historic #HBCU @FISK1866 experienced plenty of turmoil for a good part of a decade.

But in the 2018-19 year, the school saw record fundraising and continued enrollment gains. https://t.co/PqlBxvVISV via @tennessean

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

An update for Fiskites: https://t.co/HyY2QT1o0M

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

I know there are a lot of feelings around the recent news. I have spoken to Lynward personally about this;it was not done perfunctorily or without conversation. Contrary to the prominence and years of use of the most popular spelling,I can assure you his name is spelled correctly

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

We cannot adequately express our appreciation for his work and diligence over the course of many years. Lynward’s legacy will live on and we look forward to honoring him at Homecoming this fall.

[Dr. Vann Newkirk Sr. @FiskPres]

Yesterday was a difficult day as we made some personnel changes on campus. Among the impacted personnel was long-time ambassador and champion for Fisk, Lynward Berry. Lynward is beloved by all and has been a fixture for generations of Fiskites....