Curtis Norman Symonds

Never a GAMBLE...Always a Sure BET Curtis Norman Symonds

I have lived an incredible life. Some would even call it lucky. For me, life is Never a GAMBLE, it's Always a sure Bet. I look back over everything that I've been able to accomplish in my storied career in the Sports and Cable industries. I owe it all to one specific source. That source is Central State University a Historic Black College & University (HBCU) centered in Southern Ohio. The impact, influence, and income that was derived as a direct result of my association with that HBCU experience transformed my life. As I look back and realize the constant care, concern and cajoling my professors, administrators and staff gave me, I appreciate the support and guidance that made a difference in my life. My greatest goal was to play college basketball. Their greatest goal was for me to graduate and become a productive member of society. Both goals have been met. This book is an expression of how they were met. As I look back over my life I recognize how I excelled because of my incredible HBCU experience. I was nurtured and groomed to become successful. This is all because of my HBCU experience. I also look back at the lives of many others that had no other choice but to attend an HBCU. Today there are many other choices.... but is that true? Today's African-American youth are graduating from inner-city, suburban and rural schools that are largely segregated. Those students find themselves having difficulty matriculating through mainstream institutions of higher learning. Today more than ever there's a need for HBCU's. These are schools where black students are nurtured, supported as well as receive "tough love". HBCU's now are becoming more and more culturally diverse which reflects society today and gives these students of color an opportunity to achieve in a safe and nurturing environment. More importantly, they will be prepared to enter the workforce with confidence. Join this journey with me as I share the value and significance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. It is my hope that you will both understand and experience why HBCU's are Never a GAMBLE and indeed they are Always a sure BET!