Living Legend: Serbino Sandifer-Walker

HOUSTON — Serbino Sandifer-Walker is an award-winning multimedia journalist, journalism professor and assistant dean of the School of Communication at Texas Southern University. She is breaking-ground in digital storytelling where journalists use cutting-edge technology, social media, mobiles and tablets to tell in-depth news stories and develop innovative content for multimedia platforms. She created the first Social Media Correspondents team on a college campus.

This is a photo of Houston’s first sit-in held on March 4, 1960 at Weingarten’s grocer at 4110 Almeda. The sit-in was led by Texas Southern University students. Some of those students were Holly Hogrobrooks, Eldrewey Stearns, John Bland, Halcyon Sadberry Watkins and many more.

She is also creator of the historic website, Houston Student Movement, which focuses on Houston’s civil rights movement. She is currently working on a multimedia publication about Houston’s civil rights movement.  Some of her early work on the movement led the Texas Historical Commission to designate a historic marker in honor of Houston’s first sit-in on the 50th anniversary on March 4, 2010. The marker is located at 4110 Almeda, the location where Houston’s first sit-in was held. Click here to see photos of historic event.

As a journalist with more than two decades of experience, Sandifer-Walker has covered everything from hurricanes to political elections in New York City.  She has interviewed some of this country’s most noted leaders and entertainers including Rudolph Giuliani, Jesse Jackson, David Dinkins, Mario Cuomo, Whoopi Goldberg and Carly Simon, as well as the nation’s first black female TV news network correspondent, Joan Murray.  Sandifer-Walker’s work has been published in local and national media and scholarly publications.

Sandifer-Walker is the past President of the Houston Association of Black Journalists, Vice President of the National Association of Black Journalists’ Digital Journalism Task Force (DJTF) and served as a DJTF innovations contributor. While she was president, HABJ was named chapter of the year by the National Association of Black Journalists.

Sandifer-Walker is the recipient of many awards; however, the award she is most proud of is the Texas Southern University McCleary Teacher of the Year. Nothing brings her greater joy than hearing from a former student who has become a successful professional. From CNN to Warner Brothers Los Angeles, her former students have made one of her dreams come true; ensuring diverse voices are represented in America’s newsrooms, classrooms and boardrooms.  They made it and she always knew they could do it.

Sandifer-Walker is the mother of a wonderful daughter and son and an amazing husband. You can always find her doing something positive.

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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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