Issue/Publication: Today -@rdc

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Four years ago, Corey Tyson, a black male enrolled in my Soc/BWS 370: Social and Political Activism Class, was challenged to create a sustainable project that would impact upon a particular community. The project had to be community centered, community led, and reflect community needs. Corey decided to make a difference in the lives of black males students at Miami University. Responding to the increasing failure of black males to matriculate or to maintain high g.p.a.’s, Corey, with the help of 4 other young black male students launched an organization of ‘brothers helping brothers’. While Corey has since graduated, to-date more than 40 young men have been involved in this organization.

The organization –formally known as Gentlemen of Distinguished Character (GDC) –is open to all males attending Miami University who aspire to scholarly excellence, guided by ethical principles, inspired by creative engagement in social and political activism aimed at encouraging individuals and communities to maximize their potentials. I have been the adviser for GDC since its inception and have instituted the following system of encouragement. First of all, each young man upon entry into GDC is awarded a Miami Tie symbolizing their commitment to scholarly excellence. From that point they are encouraged to not only excel, but to maintain excellence throughout their sojourn at Miami University. Each year that respective members of GDC makes the Dean’s list, (The Dean's List recognizes undergraduate students who receive a 3.5 to 3.9 g.p.a. for a semester of 12 or more hours attempted for grades (A+ through F) –they receive another item. Thus:

• 1st time makes the Dean’s list – a student would be awarded a dress shirt

• 2nd time makes the Dean’s list – a student would be awarded a pair of dress slacks

• 3rd time makes the Dean’s list – a student would be awarded a pair dress shoes

• 4th time makes the Dean’s list – a student would be awarded a blazer

In the past 4 years, only one student has reached the 4th level, and thus graduated with the complete ensemble –that student Eric Cook, t received a full scholarship to IU-Bloomington Law School. Corey is currently attending Law School at the University of Dayton. Today, we will welcome another 11 young men into the Gentlemen of Distinguished Character. At a special ceremony, I will be awarding them with their ties. Over the coming weeks, as you watch our students, look for these distinguished Miami Ties –bearing the head of the Red Hawk emblem. But more than this, look for them in your classes, and on the Dean’s list –and as the future scholars, leaders, and innovators. Join me in welcoming these examples of the best of what Miami University can be, join me in encouraging the Gentlemen of Distinguished Character.

Thanks,

Rodney D. Coates

Professor of Sociology and Gerontology

Miami University