Man the Myth the Legend, Mr. Whitaker!

Standing tall with beautiful stature Mr. Whitaker stands high and pride in front of a crowd of about a hundred students and faculty. The Carver Hall theater is lit up perfectly with bright yellow and white stage lights. The atmosphere is full of love and kindness, (much like Mr. Whitaker himself). In his deep red tie and fitted blue suit Mr. Whitaker speaks about the speaker to come next, you would think he was the guest of honor. A strong voice and intense eye contact set the stage for knowing exactly the kind of man he is. "Hate can not drive out hate but love can do that." A quote that easily stuck with me coming from a deep and authoritative voice like his.

Carver Hall during the 2017 MLK celebration 

Mr. Wayne Whitaker is a kind soul of many traits and characteristics that correspond to what many would call a good man.  Currently Mr. Whitaker stands as the Assistant Director of Retention and Diversity here at Bloomsburg University but he makes sure to give thanks to his past for where he is now in the present. The little bit of astounding background I received from a short 20 minute interview was nothing of a surprise.

Kappa Alpha Psi Logo

Whitaker was born in the Bronx, New York and resided there for about 15 years when he then moved to Brooklyn for about 3 years where he graduated high school. That was when Bloomsburg was lucky enough to gain what they had no idea would be a very influential man and student, majoring in Psychology. Being part of the BU, "GO HUSKIES" family he became one who helped in the foundation of an all black fraternity called Kappa Alpha Psi in 1981. Kappa Alpha Psi being not only a national fraternity but an international one is part of the Divine Nine, 9 very renowned all black Greek life organizations. They are known for their crimson and gold and strong will and aspiration for leadership. Their motto so powerfully being, "Achievement in every field of human endeavor" (what a legacy to look up to, am I right?) Mr. Whitaker not only had thanks to give to his fraternity, he also had praise for Bloomsburg and the amazing mentors he met on the way. These "instrumental people" he states, were professors by the name of Dr. Jessie Bryant who also became a close friend and Dr. Irvin Wright. Just like the fraternity, Bloomsburg taught him how to achieve and be an unforgettable leader. Those key elements and the knowledge through academics, Mr. Whitaker definitely did achieve in every field of human endeavors. He made it a point that he was never NOT part of the Kappas (a more commonly referred name.)  It is safe to say that although not a student he is still very active in the program being part of the Alumni Chapter.

Office here on campus in SSC

Once college was over Mr. Whitaker quickly went to work making differences in this world. He worked with Job Core helping students find their way through the world whether it was through vocational schools or getting their GED's. And after 7 quick years, Mr. Whitaker found his way back to the wonderful mountainous Bloomsburg University. He so graciously got a job at the Office of Admissions as a Coordinator of Minority Recruitment and for 23 years he worked to increase the percentage of students of color here on campus. Making his travels through cities like: Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Allentown trying to recruit students of color to attend BU, change was quickly seen on campus. Although his previous job was MORE than important especially in a school of predominately Caucasian students, his current position means absolutely so much to him. Before, he did not get the opportunity to get to really know his students. He was always on the prowl looking for new students and every year he had to find new faces. Now on the "retention" side of things he is, "able to assist them for the 4 years as they matriculate through the campus here." He is now able to actually get to know all of his students and make connections.

How are these connections made you may ask. Here at Bloomsburg there is a scholarship by the name of the Board of Governs. At it's birth it began as an award that could only be given to students of color but over time it has evolved into a scholarship available to anyone. It is a scholarship either given through high academic achievement in high school or as a "needs" scholarship to already enrolled students. It is worth full tuition or half tuition for the duration of 4 years, 8 semesters. Although the achievements aspect of this award is ran through the office of admissions, Mr. Whitaker takes care of any remaining scholarships to give out to those who are financially in need. BIG decisions, (I KNOW.) I have a small advantage when it comes to some insight being that I, myself am a "BOG Scholar". I am very aware of the the tight ship that Mr. Whitaker runs when it comes to this organization and this honor. Although this opportunity is given in all 14 state schools in Pennsylvania, Mr. Whitaker actually runs a program. A certain GPA must be met, community service must be done, a great moral standing must be kept and leadership workshop requirements must not be forgotten. We stand for all that is BOG! If not met you are given THE BOOT......only jokes. There are probation periods for students that do fall behind on requirements but if those aren't met Mr. Whitaker, with great sadness in his heart is forced to take away any scholarships given to students who do not take things seriously. He does state that it is very difficult when it comes to times like that but he also states that times like that do not occur frequently with his students.

There are an insane amount of students that look up to Mr. Whitaker as a phenomenal role model. A BOG scholar by the name of Nathan states, "He exhibits a position of leadership and excellence. He helps when he can and tries his absolute best to keep all of his scholars on track to fulfill success." It is not an understatement when it is said that Mr. Whitaker is a fine man indeed. At the end of day, Mr. Whitaker was meant to "achieve in every field of human endeavor."

Photo Credits:
http://bloomsburgu.tumblr.com/post/156979382582/former-naacp-leader-speaks-on-mlk-jrs-legacy-dr
http://www.imvu.com/groups/group/Kappa%2BAlpha%2BPsi%2BFraternity%252C%2BInc%252546%2BTheta%2BLambda/