Charlotte N.C. / September 29, 2025 - Medicine, music, and hands-on STEM education came together at Johnson C. Smith University’s 2025 Homecoming. Beyond the football field and parade route, doctors, medical professionals, and even a live DJ gathered on campus to showcase careers, new technology, and real-world opportunities in healthcare. At the center of it all were two Golden Bull alumni—now practicing podiatrists—who returned to give back and inspire the next generation.
The event was spearheaded by JCSU alumni Dr. William Harris IV (Class of 2001) and Dr. James Fullwood (Class of 2004), both podiatric surgeons who are passionate about exposing students to careers in healthcare.
“Many people aren’t aware of podiatry until much later in life,” Dr. Harris explained. “You often hear about the ‘sexy’ specialties like plastic surgery or brain surgery, but podiatry is an incredible career path with flexibility. You can do trauma surgery, wound care, biomechanics, or reconstructive work. We wanted to show students that this is a path where you can have a real impact—from babies to 100-year-olds.”
Dr. Fullwood added that the fair reflects the principles instilled in him at JCSU. “Dr. Valdek Chopra taught us to learn for the sake of learning, then use that knowledge to better society,” he said. “That foundation has guided me in all my education and career. Now it’s about giving back and opening doors for the next generation.”
At the heart of the fair was a unique opportunity: a live demonstration of an Achilles tendon repair on a cadaver foot. Students gathered around surgical tables to learn anatomy, observe specialized techniques, and even touch the instruments used in orthopedic surgery.
“I thought it was really impressive,” said Sydney Bledsoe, a sophomore Information Systems major. “Having a real example in front of me, being able to touch it and see how the tendon was repaired—that hands-on opportunity was so valuable.”
For some, the experience was eye-opening. De’Zejah Lanham admitted the cadaver made it “kind of scary,” but also unforgettable. “It was the first time I’d seen anything like this,” she said. “But it was very effective because it showed us an accurate example of what really happens in medicine.”
Freshman Jayden Watson, a biology major and wide receiver on JCSU’s football team, said the fair made him rethink his career goals. “I want to be a doctor, but Dr. Harris showed me a new path today—I may go into podiatry,” he said. “I love that this week merges academics with athletics. Being a student-athlete means excelling on the field and in the classroom. Opportunities like this show us how to grow in all areas of life.”
In addition to JCSU students, the event drew national organizations, including the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). CEO Megan McClelland praised the work of JCSU alumni and underscored the urgent need for more podiatrists nationwide.
“Podiatry is the hidden gem of healthcare,” McClelland said. “Podiatrists do everything from sports medicine to diabetic limb salvage. In communities of color, where diabetes is more prevalent, their work can literally save lives by preventing amputations. Yet there are only about 16,000 podiatrists in the entire country—far too few to meet the need.”
McClelland hopes to partner with JCSU and other HBCUs to increase awareness. “When students shadow a podiatrist, even for just one day, they’re 70% more likely to go to podiatric medical school. Nobody else in medicine can say that,” she explained. “We want to broaden this opportunity, starting here at JCSU.”
Corporate partners like Arthrex, represented by technology consultant Michael Marconi, also participated. Students learned about surgical tools, product development, and entrepreneurship within healthcare. “We want students to be exposed to all sides of medicine—from the surgical to the business,” Marconi said.
The day’s activities left a lasting impression. “It’s extraordinary,” Dr. Harris said. “To walk down the hall of your university and have the chance to dissect a cadaver, to talk with top medical professionals, and to explore real career paths—that’s not just unique, it’s transformational.”
As Homecoming week celebrated tradition, fellowship, and Golden Bull pride, the Science Fair reminded everyone that JCSU is preparing students for futures as innovators, doctors, scientists, and leaders.
