TSU Alumnus Uses Popular Music to Hone Business Acumen
While Cultivating Creativity
(Houston) June 21, 2023 – In his new role with Arizona State University as an assistant professor of music business in the School of Music, Dance and Theatre, Texas Southern University alumnus Gregory Daniel brings a breadth of knowledge and skillset that will undoubtedly elevate the popular music program with his experience as a drummer, producer, entrepreneur, lawyer and critical understanding of the music industry and entertainment law.
Reared in the church as the offspring of a musical family, Daniel began what would be a passion for music playing the drums at age three. The gig would become full-time for him, and he would advance to become director of music by age 16. At 23, Daniel joined the Brian McKnight band as drummer. “Of course, music is the bedrock of everything I do, and where it all started,” said Daniel. He continues to perform and tour with McKnight, and he actively pursue work as a producer, attorney, real estate broker and National Football League agent.
Daniel credits his continued success in his professional career to balancing both his creative side with his business intelligence. “They go hand in hand, and I think that’s where a lot of the industry has gone wrong for years,” said Daniel. “There’s been a bifurcation between the two. As long as I can remember, I’ve always been interested in the music and the business side.”
Understanding the complexity and need for balance in the industry, Daniel sees and values the importance of teaching music business. He asserts he is motivated by helping artists cultivate business competences that protect their art.
“Creatives don’t have trouble coming up with music. They have trouble managing it,” he said. “They have trouble making the right business decisions. It’s hard to navigate everything, and it takes people very intentionally wanting to.”
Regarding students, Daniel offers, “They need to learn first, then they’re ahead of the game, way ahead of the curve,” he stated. “They are getting everything they need to know. And then I’m coming and helping make sure they get the experience too, They’re already light years ahead.”
Daniel’s expanse connections are uniquely positioned to offer students a network while they’re in school and beyond.
In addition to his vast engagements, Daniel is currently teaching entertainment law at TSU’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in music business from Berklee College of Music and law degree from TSU. He uses the degrees to balance his creative side with his business discernment to deliver unyielding success.
TSU Alumna Opens Second Pharmacy
Texas Southern University alumna Dr. Brandy Williams graduated from TSU’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in 2007 with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. She grew up on Houston’s southside and attended Worthing High School. Worthing is where she developed her love for science. While in high school, she attended a Summer Science for Seniors program as a cardiology and pharmaceutics research team member. It was that summer of research that put her on the path to pursuing a degree in pharmaceutical sciences.
During her time at TSU, she was a tutor in pharmaceutical calculation and pharmacokinetics. She was also a research assistant with NASA. Dr. Williams is the owner and CEO of We Care Rx, a Texas-based retail pharmacy located in Memorial City. In addition, she recently opened a second location in the Texas Medical Center. Her pharmacies specialize in patient-specific compounding and specialty medicine.
In 2022, Dr. Williams made a $100,000 donation to the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. This gift provided scholarships to pharmacy students in their first, second, and third year, and provided a post-graduate board review class for graduating pharmacy students. In addition to her financial contributions, Dr. Williams is always available to mentor and speak with students, tutor, and lecture, as well as partner with the College for health outreach initiatives. She is also a member of the Dean’s Advisory Council.
TSU Alumnus Shows Optimism in His Daily Journey
(Houston) June 7, 2023 – Fredric A. Navarre is a man wearing many hats. As an educator, entrepreneur and energy executive, Navarre can be almost anywhere across Houston at any time engaging and leaving a positive impact within the community. Challenging traditional values with innovative solutions and impactful initiatives, Navarre is building meaningful connections while contributing to the greater good in a personal way.
Presently, Navarre is vice president of marketing, communication and client engagement with Ally Energy, an energy workforce development company. His role encompasses strategic planning, creative execution, stakeholder management and building client relationships. His contributions play a pivotal role in driving company growth while improving brand image and guaranteeing client satisfaction and long-term success for ALLY Energy clients.
Prior to his current position, Navarre served as deputy assistant director for the Houston Mayor’s Office of Complete Communities where he was responsible for communications and external affairs.
According to Navarre, Texas Southern University has equipped him for ongoing success by offering a strong academic foundation, supportive learning environment, practical experience opportunities and professional development possibilities by providing access to alumni and professionals for networking. "I have come to realize my purpose in life is to make a positive and lasting impact on the world around me, to inspire and uplift others, and to continually grow and evolve as a person," Navarre said. "Continuous personal growth and self-improvement are integral parts of my mission and journey."
Navarre holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Southern University, an MBA in energy finance from Texas Southern University, a master’s degree in education from The University of Texas at Arlington and an education finance certification from Georgetown University. He was recently announced as a 2023 Houston Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree.