Fall 2021 December 11 | 9:00 a.m.| Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium Lorman, Mississippi
Commencement Fall 2021 December 11 | 9:00 a.m.| Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium Lorman, Mississippi
Message to the Graduates Dear Alcorn Graduates, I am so proud of each and every one of you. Graduation season is unlike any other. It is a time that marks the end of one era and the beginning of the greatness that lies ahead. I want to congratulate each of you on reaching this milestone. My pride is especially strong this year. All of you who walk today share unprecedented experiences that will, no doubt, bind you together and strengthen you for years to come. You have experienced more life during this pandemic than many do over decades. But through this global pandemic and persisting racial unrest across our country, you have dared to forge a Brave path. This semester has brought out the best in you by forcing you to tap into your greatness, adapt to a new normal, and display your will to win. You remained strong and you showed how resilient you really are. You dared to continue moving forward with your education when you could have stopped or paused. You dared to lean into this community when you could have retreated. You dare to lead even when the world tries to convince you to follow. I can say without hesitation that your work ethic separates you from the competition. You are second to none, and may you always know that to be true. You exude knowledge and character — attributes that are part of our Alcorn legacy. Your commitment to excellence makes me proud to be your president — or should I say, our alma mater’s president, for now, you become Alcorn alumni. You are the leaders who will bring us into the next 150 years of excellence at Alcorn. Your journey – and your responsibility – as alumni begins today. Utilize the power that your Alcorn degree possesses to become staples in society. You have proven that no challenge can stop you from reaching your goals. Go into the world with confidence, knowing you dared to be great amidst tremendous challenge. Inspired by each of you, and forever Brave,
Felecia M. Nave, Ph.D. 20th President
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MISSISSIPPI BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF STATE INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING Dr. Alfred Rankins Jr., Commissioner Dr. J. Walt Starr, President Mr. Tom Duff, Vice President Mrs. Jeanne Carter Luckey Dr. Ormella Cummings Dr. Steven Cunningham Ms. Teresa Hubbard Mr. Bruce Martin Dr. Alfred E. McNair Jr. Mr. Chip Morgan Mr. Powell “Gee” Ogletree Jr. Mr. Hal Parker Mr. Gregory Rader
ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY INSTITUTIONAL OFFICERS Dr. Felecia M. Nave, President Dr. Ontario S. Wooden, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Cornelius Wooten, Senior Vice President for Finance, Administrative Services and Operations/Chief Financial Officer Dr. Tracy Cook, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Mr. Larry Orman, Vice President for Marketing and Communication Mr. Marcus Ward, Vice President for Institutional Advancement Mr. Cyrus Russ, Interim Director of Intercollegiate Athletics
DEANS Dr. Edmund Buckner, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences Dr. Babu Patlolla, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences Dr. Charles Richardson Jr., Dean of the School of Business Dr. Malinda Butler, Interim Dean of the School of Education and Psychology Dr. Shirley Evers-Manly, Interim Dean of the Cora S. Balmat School of Nursing Dr. Valerie Thompson, Dean of University College Dr. Blanche Sanders, Dean of University Libraries Dr. Keith A. McGee, Associate Provost for Research, Innovation, and Graduate Education 5
Fall Commencement Ceremony SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2021 | 9:00 A.M. JACK SPINKS - MARINO CASEM STADIUM DR. FELECIA M. NAVE, 20TH PRESIDENT Presiding PRELUDE
Mr. Tony Gordon, Pianist
Assistant Professor of Music Department of Fine Arts
POSTING OF COLORS
Braves Battalion
OFFICIAL CONVOCATION OPENING
Dr. Ontario S. Wooden
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
PRESENTATION OF MACE
Dr. Byron Johnson
Associate Professor of Music Chair, Faculty Senate
PROCESSIONAL
Mr. Tony Gordon
War March of the Priests (from Athalie) by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Ms. Kimyia Youngblood
Senior, Computer Science Major
Mr. Tony Gordon, Accompanist OPENING REMARKS
President Felecia M. Nave
INVOCATION
Reverend Dr. C. Edward Rhodes II
Director of Student Religious Life
GREETINGS
Dr. Byron Johnson
Mr. Jaquerius Howard
Student Government Association, President Senior, Biology Major
SELECTION Alcorn State University Concert Choir Veni, Sancte Spiritus Mr. Zedrick Coleman, Ms. Jimmia Exum, Mr. Antoin Marshall, Ms. Ashley-Gaye Palmer by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Soli
Dr. Alona Alexander, Choir Director
Assistant Professor of Music Department of Fine Arts
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Fall Commencement Ceremony INTRODUCTION OF SPEAKER
President Nave
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
Dr. Dennis E. Thomas ’74
Commissioner, Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)
PRESENTATION OF HONORARY DEGREE
President Nave
SELECTION
Alcorn State University Concert Choir Mr. Xavian Lewis
Ride the Chariot arr. by Brandon Waddles
Solo
Dr. Alona Alexander RECOGNITION OF HONOR STUDENTS
Provost Wooden
PRESENTATION OF DEANS
Provost Wooden
DEAN’S PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES Graduate Studies
Dr. Keith A. McGee Dr. Edmund Buckner Dr. Babu Patlolla Dr. Charles Richardson Jr. Dr. Malinda Butler Dr. Shirley Evers-Manly
School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences School of Arts and Sciences School of Business School of Education and Psychology Cora S. Balmat School of Nursing
CONFERRAL OF EARNED DEGREES
President Nave
INDUCTION OF GRADUATING CLASS INTO THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AND PLEDGE
Mr. Anthony Tuggle
Alcorn State University National Alumni Association, President
CLOSING REMARKS
President Nave
THE ALCORN ODE
Ms. Kimyia Youngblood
Mrs. J.S. (Estelle Bomar) Himes
RETIRING OF COLORS
Braves Battalion
FANFARE AND RECESSIONAL
Mr. Tony Gordon
Finlandia by Jean Sibelius
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Commencement Speaker DR. DENNIS E. THOMAS ’74
Commissioner, Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Dr. Dennis E. Thomas entered his 20th year as commissioner of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) on Sept. 1, 2021, following a period of nearly two decades that has seen the conference remain financially stable, strengthen institutional compliance and improve student-athlete graduation rates. In the process, he has gained the distinction as one of the leading collegiate athletics administrators in America. Commissioner Thomas enters another year at the helm as the entire sports world attempts to adopt to a new normal, a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. His steady leadership has reassured the league’s student-athletes, coaches, staff and fans alike that their health and safety take precedence over athletics competitions, in keeping with the MEAC’s motto of “Educating StudentAthletes for the Game of Life.” The MEAC celebrated its Golden Anniversary in 2020-21, celebrating 50 years since its founding in 1970, the conference, and under Commissioner Thomas’ guidance, the conference continues to be a pacesetter, even during a pandemic. Being progressive, Commissioner Thomas has still been able to give fans an avenue for wholesome sports participation by inking a deal with GYO Score to create the conference’s Esports Community. In 2010, Commissioner Thomas realized one of his goals with the purchasing of the conference’s first office complex. The official headquarters, located in Norfolk, Va., marks the first time an FCS conference has owned its headquartered property without assessing MEAC institutions. A revolutionary, one year later, Commissioner Thomas accomplished another first as he led the MEAC to become the first NCAA Division I FCS conference to institute instant replay during its televised regular-season football games, a feat that was accomplished in 2011. Commissioner Thomas’ mission to increase the conference’s corporate resources has led to multi-year partnerships with Cricket Wireless, Russell Athletic Corporation, Coca-Cola, State Farm Insurance, Nike, Wells Fargo, ESPN, Jostens, United States Marines, Home Depot, Geico, Colgate Palmolive, Delta Airlines and the National Football League (NFL). Commissioner Thomas was instrumental in forging a partnership with the NFL to improve officiating and provide access for MEAC officials to advance to the next level. In May 2016, Commissioner Thomas also helped broker an off-the-field partnership between the NFL and the MEAC to boost opportunities for non-playing careers in professional football. In 2017, the MEAC partnered with Collegiate Sports Management Group (CSMG), entering into a multi-year agreement in an effort to increase the conference’s corporate partnerships and branding. The relationship focuses on marketing and sponsorship rights, as well as helping to develop more national strategies across all avenues to assist with generating revenue for the conference and MEAC institutions. Under Commissioner Thomas’ leadership and financial awareness, MEAC member institutions have received end-of-the-year financial distributions for 19 consecutive years. In 2004, Commissioner Thomas recommended to ESPN the development of the Celebration Bowl, pitting the champions of the MEAC and the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) together in a bowl game. The first two editions were played in the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Ga., with the MEAC winning the inaugural contest in 2015 when North Carolina A&T State defeated Alcorn State 41-34. Beginning in 2017, the Celebration Bowl shifted venues, as the new Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened in downtown Atlanta. Committed to equal opportunities, Commissioner Thomas has bolstered the conference’s television footprint when it comes to the Olympic sports. In February 2017, the conference broadcast the MEAC Indoor Track & Field Championships, for the first time
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Commencement Speaker ever, on ESPN3. ESPN3 also broadcast the league’s Bowling Championship and Outdoor Track & Field Championship for the first time in 2018. In addition, the conference’s Volleyball Championship final has been broadcast on ESPNU every year since 2014; that initial broadcast marked the first time in the conference’s history that the volleyball championship had been televised. During his tenure, Commissioner Thomas has been a proponent of MEAC student-athletes being strong on the field as well as in the classroom. His vision to reward academic excellence was implemented with the start of the Highest Graduation Award for member institutions with the best graduation rate for the academic year. The institution that achieves that honor is awarded $25,000. In 2006, Commissioner Thomas implemented the MEAC Woman of the Year honor. The award celebrates the achievements of female senior student-athletes who have excelled in academics, athletics, community service and leadership. In 2012, the MEAC introduced and recognized the MEAC Man of the Year award in conjunction with the women’s top honor. The 2019-20 academic year saw Thomas inducted into the Black College Football Hall of Fame, and he was also named to the Board of Directors for the National Football Foundation (NFF). Commissioner Thomas has brought a wealth of collegiate administrative and higher education experience to the MEAC. Prior to becoming Commissioner, he served as Director of Athletics at Hampton University in Hampton, Va. In his 12 years of service, Hampton excelled on and off the field of competition. In addition to guiding Hampton from the NCAA Division II level to Division I, he demonstrated a strong commitment to student-athletes during his tenure by developing the Athletic Academic Support unit to increase graduation rates. Commissioner Thomas’ leadership and managerial skills among national organizations has not gone unnoticed. He was awarded the National Association of Collegiate Director of Athletics (NACDA) Athletics Director of the Year Award for the Southeast Region (I-AA/AAA) in 2002. In 2001, he served as Chair of the NCAA Division I-AA (now FCS) Football Committee. He also served on the NCAA Division I Football Issues Committee and is a former member of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame Board of Directors. Commissioner Thomas has served as a member of the NCAA Division I Leadership Council and the NCAA I-FCS Governance Committee, and he was a member and chair of the NCAA Division I Committee on Infractions and the NLI Policy and Review Committee. He has also served as the chair of the NCAA Division I-AA (FCS) Commissioners Association and he served on the NACDA Executive Committee and the Walter Byers Scholarship Committee. Commissioner Thomas was inducted into Hampton University’s inaugural Athletics Hall of Fame Class in 2009. He has also been enshrined into the Alcorn State University Hall of Fame (2010), the Southwestern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame (2003) and the Black College Football Hall of Fame (2020). A native of Heidelberg, Mississippi, Commissioner Thomas was a four-year letterman in football and track and field in high school, and at the age of 16, he embarked upon a collegiate career that is still in the SWAC’s record books. In 1973, he made history as the first and only offensive lineman to be named the conference’s Offensive Player of the Year. He finished his collegiate career as a three-year letterman at Alcorn State, a two-time Pittsburgh Courier First Team All-American (1972-73), First Team Black Mutual Sports Network All-American (1973) and the Outstanding College Athlete of America (1974). While at Alcorn State, Commissioner Thomas coached and played under the legendary coach Marino “The Godfather” Casem. During his playing and coaching tenure at Alcorn State, the Braves won SWAC football championships in 1970 as a player and 1976, 1979 and 1984 as an assistant coach. In 1978, the state legislature in Mississippi proclaimed April 8 as the “Dennis and Johnny Day” in the state, recognizing Commissioner Thomas and his brother for their achievements in scholarship, athletics and leadership. Commissioner Thomas earned his Bachelor’s degree from Alcorn State University. He later earned his Master’s from the University of Louisiana at Monroe and his doctorate degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Commissioner Thomas is a proud lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.
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Fall Commencement Ceremony move them to the left front quadrant after degrees are conferred. Caps are considered a part of the costume and are customarily removed only during an invocation or benediction, and then by men only. The gold and purple braided cords are worn from the left shoulder to signify the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively.
ACADEMIC DRESS Academic dress, consisting of cap, gown, and hood, originated about the twelfth century and was worn primarily for warmth. Subsequently, the material of the gown and lining, and the shape of the hood, represented the economic and social, as well as academic status of the wearer.
DISCIPLINE COLORS
In the United States, the great majority of the academic costumes now worn are in accordance with the general provisions of the Intercollegiate Code of 1895, which was revised in 1932 and again in 1960. Under this code, the bachelor’s gown has pointed sleeves, the master’s gown has oblong sleeves with an arc at the bottom, and the doctor’s gown has bell-shaped sleeves. All gowns are black, although the adoption of colored gowns by individual institutions in the United States is becoming more prevalent.
For all academic purposes, including trimmings of doctor’s gowns, edging of hoods, tassels of caps, and linings of banners, the colors associated with the different disciplines are as follows: Agriculture, Maize Arts, Letters, Humanities, English, White Commerce, Accountancy, Business & Industrial & Labor Relations, Drab Computer & Information Science, Mathematics, & Science, Golden Yellow Education, Light Blue Journalism, Crimson Library Science, Lemon Mathematics, Golden Yellow Music, Pink Nursing, Apricot Physical Education, Sage Green Social Work, Citron
The bachelor’s and master’s gowns are untrimmed. The doctor’s gown is faced down the front with velvet and has three bars of velvet across the sleeves. The facing and bars may be black or may be the color of the subject to which the degree pertains. The bachelor’s gown is worn closed; the master’s and doctor’s gowns may be worn open or closed. Women may wear white collars with the bachelor’s gown when no hood is worn. Hoods are also black. The bachelor’s hood is 3 feet in length; the master’s, 3½ feet; and the doctor’s 4 feet. Hoods are lined with the official color or colors of the college or university conferring the degree. At Alcorn State University, the lining is purple and gold. The colored velvet border of the hood, which is 2 inches, 3 inches, and 5 inches wide for the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctor’s degrees respectively, identifies the faculty or field of study to which the degree pertains.
Bronze medallions engraved with an image of the Oakland Memorial Chapel distinguish faculty and staff members who have been awarded presidential honors.
RECTOR’S REGALIA The Tower of London houses the royal jewel office. Here the crowns, scepters, and other royal treasures of the English rules, known as the regalia are closely guarded. Since modern academic regalia evolved from the kinds of apparel worn by monks and students in the Middle Ages to keep warm in the castles and halls in which they studied, academic regalia remains symbolic of scholastic achievement.
The black mortarboard cap is standard in the United States. Usually, all tassels are black, but occasionally when the graduating seniors do not wear hoods the color of the cap tassel indicates the department of study. At Alcorn State University, candidates for degrees wear black tassels on the right front quadrant of their caps before their degrees are conferred by the president and 10
Fall Commencement Ceremony The University mace was designed by Drs. Alpha Morris, Joyce Bolden, and Malvin Williams Sr. It includes a 3” diameter bronze medal with purple enamel on a 4” diameter dark walnut disk. It is a 40” tall mace with brass accents and purple enamel on the foot. The mace embeds the seal of the university with Alcorn State University being founded in 1871 in the state of Mississippi, characterized by service, scholarship, and dignity. It includes a picture of the Oakland Memorial Chapel, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the first buildings to be constructed at Oakland College in 1830.
CHAIN OF OFFICE Each president of Alcorn State University wears the Chain of Office also referred to as the livery and/or the Presidential Medallion symbolizing the Office of the President. It is worn at formal academic occasions such as inaugurations, commencements, convocations, and Founder’s Day. The Chain of Office for Alcorn State University’s 20th president is comprised of a 3-inch diameter bronze medal with purple enamel set in a tulip bezel. It is attached with a leaf banner bearing the title President and leaf clusters. The chain consists of 24 curved banners depicting engravings of the name of each official and interim presidents of Alcorn State University and their year of appointment. The Chain of Office restores the livery to the official seal of the office of the president which was in absentia under the 16th and 17th presidents.
ACADEMIC DEGREE HONORS GRADUATE Graduate degree recipients with extraordinary academic performance are recognized by English phrases rather than Latin translations in order to indicate their level of distinction. The honors designation is singularly ascribed based on a specific grade point average. There is no universal standard, as each college or university establishes the institutional threshold for honor designation. The requirements for graduate degree honors at Alcorn State University are detailed below:
UNIVERSITY MACE The mace is a club-shaped staff used as a symbol of authority. It was originally a weapon of the Middle Ages with a long handle, heavily weighted on the end. The heavy end became an iron ball as the sciences of war developed where archers and other unmounted warriors used the mace as a hand arm. University Mace (The mace was also used by some church officials, the British House of Commons, and the United States House of Representatives, Sergeants-at-Arms, who were the guards of kings and other high officials also carried maces). Even today, a gleaming white mace still rests on the table at meetings of the Northwest Territories Council symbolizing royal and legislative authority. Gradually, the mace gained a ceremonial character and, today, it is used during inaugurations, commencements and other formal processions.
With Highest Distinction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.91–4.00 With High Distinction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.81–3.90 With Distinction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.71–3.80 UNDERGRADUATE Undergraduate degree recipients with extraordinary academic performance are recognized by Latin phrases that indicate their level of distinction. The honors designation is singularly ascribed based on a specific grade point average. There is no universal standard, as each college or university establishes the institutional threshold for honors designation. The requirements for undergraduate degree honors at Alcorn State University are detailed below: Summa Cum Laude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.80–4.00 Magna Cum Laude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.50–3.79 Cum Laude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.20–3.49 11
Degrees With Honors GRADUATE DEGREES Designated by Gold Cords
WITH HIGHEST DISTINCTION
WITH HIGH DISTINCTION
Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.91 - 4.0
Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.81 - 3.90
Nadaya Antranette Carlisle Aundrea Briana Coleman Jonita Cooper Truong Anh Dufour Keiana Lashelle Earls Gerald Damon Glass Carl Dorian Holloway LaTanya Marie Jefferson Joycelyn Ann Minor Candace Alexia Reed Jacoby Spencer Ross Tracee Tamiko Smith Isis De’Sha Tucker Tanzia Rouf Tuie Angela Wynn
LaTrice Arielle Brengettsy Matthew Jonathan Brown Trumeka Clark Terkeevione Haggard Malik Rahshad Hullette Haley Alexandria L’Dawn Lloyd JoAnna Maryah Simon LaPrecious Danyell Thompson Kimberly Sharese Travis Joseph Hunter Vance Pamela Walker
WITH DISTINCTION
Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.71 - 3.80 Eldrick Deanté Alsworth Vera McBride Anderson Rolonda Antionette Bridgewater Tamikka LaShan Coleman Arrianna Stephondra Qualaria Nacole Drain Zacharus Evans Jeanette Howard Jessica Grace Minor
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Degrees With Honors UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES Designated by Gold Cords
Mikayla Annalyse Wilson Kimyia Ayanna Youngblood
SUMMA CUM LAUDE
Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.80 - 4.0
CUM LAUDE
Kamara Asia Allen JonChristy DeShae Bankhead Jurnee Alise Calhoun Jamya Alexus Griffin Diamond Chrae Hall Kyla Le’Ann Harris Breunna Divione McCann Victoria Leigh Montgomery Sarah-Joy Renee Romain Dyniste Ahyanna Taylor Darya Gabrielle Thompson James Robert Upton
Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.20 - 3.49 Jasmine O’shea Austin JuanKerica L. Barnes Angel LáSha Berniard Imiya Teastin Bias Mishaelynn Shonté Braswell Tyriana Terrell Brown Tiffany Lorena Buckles NaKiya Shanice Davis Lawford Demango Domineck Jr. Sarah I. Drake Alvin Darcell Edney II Zyon Makenzy Feazell Prince Charles Joequane Fells Sharon Cheressa Grigsby RéOnjanae Jeramiah Hatchett Monifah Shardae Haynes Drewnisha Simone Hunter Jessica Lucille Marie Husband Marinka Jackson Jaaron William Jackson Cameron Megail Johnson Titus Kiprotich Kibii Jordan S’vante Lampley Jacqueline D. Lewis Taylor Reauan Liggins TáBarius Tykwon Lindsey Keirra JaNae Meadious Alexia R’Shaun Montgomery Rekiyah JéNae Nichols Gwendolyn Q.E. Robinson Kelteshia Takeal Russell Delishia Shawnta Scott Hailey Morrisa Shelton Dimitri K.I. Shelton Jalise Leigh Sims Keith Andre Smith Jr. Joshua Albert Tyler Cylynthia Elosheka Ware-Bertrand April Percilla West Shalonda Latrice White Aleisha Claudette Williams
MAGNA CUM LAUDE
Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.50 - 3.79 Simone Nicole Barren Arianna Patrice Bowden Alice Inez Carroll Blair Shiyenge Chapusha Alicia Chrishanna Cox Jakayla Monea Davis Mieyah Avonté Garrett Bremiya Mi’ya Greenwood Kahleab Alexander Hill Sandrea Michelle Hord Kyla Dion Irving Kalon Xaiver Johnson Danae Reshon Johnson Marcasia Patrice Jones Kayla Rakel Kelly Jarvis Jaquan Kelly Shalisha Lauralee Naomi King Kiláh Malone LeeAnn Malone Terra Charell Moten-Levi Jaylan Elviquon Payton TaMeka Dionne Ross-McDaniel Natasha Leeann Stamps Stojan Stojmir Stojanovski Danecia Janae Taylor Hiry Thompson III Brenn Logan Ursin Brenda Anne Watson 13
Honor Societies ALPHA KAPPA MU Lawford Demango Domineck Jr. Hailey Morrisa Shelton BETA BETA BETA Santa Fe Bunch Mieyah Avonté Garrett Marcasia Patrice Jones DELTA MU DELTA Alice Inez Carroll KelTeshia Takeal Russell Hiry Thompson III Mikayla Annalyse Wilson MORTAR BOARD Lawford Demango Domineck Jr. PI GAMMA MU Nakia A. Atkinson Imiya Teastin Bias Alice Inez Carroll Nakiya Shanice Davis Hiry Thompson III Mikayla Annalyse Wilson SIGMA ALPHA PI Lawford Demango Domineck Jr. Drewnisha Simone Hunter Danae Reshon Johnson Marcasia Patrice Jones Joshua Corey McNair Jasmine Marie Thompson Darya Gabrielle Thompson Aleisha Claudette Williams Mikayla Annalyse Wilson
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Graduate Degree Candidates SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE AND APPLIED SCIENCES
TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT Jacoby Spencer Ross New Orleans, LA
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOTECHNOLOGY
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE
Jennifer Lynn Brown Ville Platte, LA
AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS Haley Alexandria L’Dawn Lloyd Batesville, MS
Tia Nicole Sanders Pensacola, FL
Iesha Keyana Jackson Starkville, MS
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN WORKFORCE EDUCATION LEADERSHIP
AGRONOMY Aundrea Briana Coleman Glen Allen, VA
Vera McBride Anderson Jackson, MS Jaquaveon Jakee Boles Dallas, TX
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
LaTrice Arielle Brengettsy Woodville, MS
ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY
Brigette Capallia Burks Vicksburg, MS
Carl Dorian Holloway Brookhaven, MS
Tamikka LaShan Coleman Vicksburg, MS
HOMELAND SECURITY MANAGEMENT
Keiana Lashelle Earls Fayette, MS
Mareesha Keontá Odom Port Gibson, MS RADIOLOGICAL HEALTH SCIENCE
Candace Nicole Fleming Natchez, MS
Jayendra Chowdari Vattikonda Hyderabad Telangana, India
Tracee Tamiko Smith Vicksburg, MS Pamela Walker Natchez, MS 15
The commencement booklet is a ceremonial listing of prospective graduates of the university for any given semester or term. Name listings in the commencement booklet do not certify official degree conferral. Certification of degree requirements and program completion is evidenced by an official transcript verified by the Director of Student Records.
Graduate Degree Candidates SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
COMPUTER AND INFORMATION SCIENCE Jessica Grace Minor Woodville, MS
MASTER OF LIBERAL ARTS
Joycelyn Ann Minor Woodville, MS
CRIMINAL JUSTICE Zacharus Evans Natchez, MS
Tanzia Rouf Tuie Ontario, Canada
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
Jonita Cooper Natchez, MS Arrianna Stephondra Qualaria Nacole Drain Yazoo, MS
MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Truong Anh Dufour Santa Ana, CA
GENERAL BUSINESS
Terkeevione Haggard Hollandale, MS
Coney Lee Dorsey Port Gibson, MS
Malik Rahshad Hullette Southhaven, MS
NáShundra DéAnna Martin-Jackson Port Gibson, MS
Kimberly Sharese Travis Yazoo City, MS
Lakenya Nicole Thomas Vicksburg, MS
Isis De’Sha Tucker McComb, MS
SCHOOL OF EDUCATION AND PSYCHOLOGY
Arthur Lee Turner Jr. Hermanville, MS Joseph Hunter Vance Indianola, MS
MASTER OF ARTS IN TEACHING SECONDARY EDUCATION Nadya Antranette Carlisle Durant, MS 16
Graduate Degree Candidates Roderick Erves Vicksburg, MS
JoAnna Maryah Simon Elyria, OH
Tommy Anthony Gibbs Jr. Bude, MS
Roselyn Annette Turner Hermanville, MS
Chiquita Williams-Haynes Carson, MS
CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING Raven Janee King Natchez, MS
Shaniqua Natasha James Crystal Springs, MS
NCAA COMPLIANCE AND ACADEMIC PROGRESS REPORTING (NON-TEACHING)
LaTanya Marie Jefferson Natchez, MS
Eldrick Deanté Alsworth Wesson, MS
Candace Alexia Reed Lorman, MS
Angela Wynn Vicksburg, MS
LaPrecious Danyell Thompson Canton, MS
SCHOOL COUNSELING Darylmekia Shaunté Anderson Centreville, MS
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SECONDARY EDUCATION
Constance Yvette Clayton Jacksonville, AR
ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATION AND COACHING (NON-TEACHING)
Jeanette Howard Hermanville, MS
Rolondo Antionette Bridgewater Homestead, FL
JaKyla Moné Jones Natchez, MS
Matthew Jonathan Brown Lorman, MS
Sylvia Regina Scott Woodville, MS
Trumeka Clark Natchez, MS Detonio Dade Laurel, MS Gerald Damon Glass Port Gibson, MS Brandon Antonio Rembert Pensacola, FL 17
Undergraduate Degree Candidates SCHOOL OF AGRICULTURE AND APPLIED SCIENCES
AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE Steve Brengettsy Jr. Woodville, MS
AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT
Chandler DéShawn LáTre Croft Chunky, MS
James Derrell Claiborne Lorman, MS
David Lawon Dixon Lake Providence, LA
Jarius Dywuann Colley Vancleave, MS
Alvin Darcell Edney II Brandon, MS
Cameron Lavell Cowart Tylertown, MS
Dana Dorteshia Gaines Hollandale, MS
Keirra JaNae Meadious Foxworth, MS
Titus Kiprotich Kibii Jackson, MS
Lorenzo Bernard Young Jr. Memphis, TN
Taylor Reauan Liggins Port Gibson, MS
AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS
Marko Avauntre Lollis Woodville, MS
Kyla LéAnn Harris Canton, MS
Malik Jarrel Smith Ferriday, LA
Bobby Shermanio Herron Fayette, MS
Darya Gabrielle Thompson Brandon, MS
Kalon Xaiver Johnson Pickens, MS
Grant Galand Young Madison, MS
Carsheika Mildredrette Mcnealy Natchez, MS
APPLIED SCIENCE
Darien Lamont Polk Jr. Durant, MS
Cameron Megail Johnson Summit, MS
Zaelon Takarri Washington Robinsonville, MS
Joseph Milburn Mansfield, TX
18 The commencement booklet is a ceremonial listing of prospective graduates of the university for any given semester or term. Name listings in the commencement booklet do not certify official degree conferral. Certification of degree requirements and program completion is evidenced by an official transcript verified by the Director of Student Records.
Undergraduate Degree Candidates Sarah-Joy Renee Romain San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago
Alicia Chrishanna Cox Jackson, MS
Victoria Pearl Wilson Roxie, MS
Jaaron William Jackson Lakeland, FL
CHILD DEVELOPMENT
HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND FAMILY SCIENCE
Sharon Cheressa Grigsby Hermanville, MS
Brenda Payne Menifee, CA
Seagram Samantha Henderson Vicksburg, MS
Danecia Janae Taylor Natchez, MS
Hattie B. Hill Vicksburg, MS
ROBOTICS AND AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGY
Marinka Jackson Natchez, MS
Christopher Rashard Foster Vidalia, LA
Gwendolyn Q.E. Robinson Hermanville, MS
SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
TaMeka Dionne Ross-McDaniel Vicksburg, MS
BIOLOGY
Delishia Shawnta Scott Vicksburg, MS
Kamara Asia Allen Marrero, LA
Shalonda Latrice White Pattison, MS
Yanisha Denee Baldwin Vicksburg, MS
COMPUTER NETWORKING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
JuanKerica L. Barnes Fayette, MS
Armand Barry Williams Roxie, MS
Simone Nicole Barren Fort Worth, TX
FOOD NUTRITION AND COMMUNITY HEALTH SCIENCE
Tyriana Terrell Brown LaPlace, LA
Jasmine O’shea Austin Jackson, MS
Trayana Mo’Na Carter Meridian, MS 19
Undergraduate Degree Candidates Zyon Makenzy Feazell Magee, MS
Breunna Divione McCann Laurel, MS
Prince Charles Joequane Fells Fayette, MS
Rekiyah JéNae Nichols Jackson, MS
Joia Ashley Gilbert Marrero, LA
Kayla Janese Olive Camden, MS
Bremiya Mi’ya Greenwood Canton, MS
Christopher Frederic’ Pittman Columbia, MS
Diamond Chrae Hall Moultrie, GA
Kymberly Marshae Pope Hattiesburg, MS
Monifah Shardae Haynes Louisville, MS
Steffon Monterall Savage Brookhaven, MS
Kahleab Alexander Hill Brazoria, TX
Hailey Morrisa Shelton Macon, MS
Jessica Lucille Marie Husband New Augusta, MS
Rikia Rajae Stubblefield Yazoo City, MS
Velkeda Rande Jackson Brandon, MS
Sydney Maria Stubbs Picayune, MS
Marcasia Patrice Jones Hickory, MS
Dyniste Ahyanna Taylor College Park, GA
Jarvis Jaquan Kelly Canton, MS
Keriesha Santel Thomas Port Gibson, MS
Kayla Rakel Kelly Canton, MS
Michaela Symone Elizabeth Thomas Clinton, MS
Michaela Kierra Keyton Ridgeland, MS
Jasmine Marie Thompson Raymond, MS
Shalisha Lauralee Naomi King San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago
Joshua Albert Tyler Vicksburg, MS
Kiláh Malone LeeAnn Malone Louisville, KY
James Robert Upton Memphis, TN
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Undergraduate Degree Candidates Brenn Logan Ursin Paulina, LA
Jakayla Monea Davis Canton, MS
Aleisha Claudette Williams Rialto, CA
Lawford Demango Domineck Jr. Baton Rouge, LA
Nyja Mondaè Williams Hazlehurst, MS
Joshua Corey McNair Hattiesburg, MS
CHEMISTRY
Treva Latoya Mitchell Natchez, MS
Ephraim Losado Binion Hattiesburg, MS
Ankecia Ly’Shana Patrick Byram, MS
Mieyah Avonté Garrett Canton, MS
Jaylan Elviquon Payton Fayette, MS
COMPUTER SCIENCE DeAnna Lynette Sanders Starkville, MS
Rayna McKenzie Brown Olive Branch, MS
ENGLISH Annie Sierra Cherry Monroe, LA
Victoria Leigh Montgomery Byram, MS
Stojan Stojmir Stojanovski Ohrid, North Macedonia
MASS COMMUNICATIONS
Andrew Guidry III New Orleans, LA
Stadford Troy Anderson Jr. Baton Rouge, LA
Dimitri K.I. Shelton Dolton, IL
Tyler Blake Jefferson Vicksburg, MS
Keith Andre Smith Jr. Memphis, TN
Jordan S’vante Lampley Noxapater, MS
Kimyia Ayanna Youngblood Prentiss, MS
Arthur L. Moore Jr. Natchez, MS
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Arne Washington Morris Jr. Cary, NC
Daimen Shaun Anderson Atlantic Beach, FL
Shnika Lagail Smith Bradley, IL 21
Undergraduate Degree Candidates Alice Inez Carroll Greenville, MS
MATHEMATICS Blair Shiyenge Chapusha Conyers, GA
Precious Edriana Collins Centreville, MS
MUSIC NaKiya Shanice Davis Woodville, MS
Angel LáSha Berniard Ethel, LA
Zakiya Shantrel Harris Yazoo City, MS
Ar’Dariel Antwan Ellis Hattiesburg, MS
Kelteshia Takeal Russell Waynesboro, MS
Jason Hammock Broussard, LA
Robyn T. Simmons Tylertown, MS
Alonzo David King Opelousas, LA
Hiry Thompson III New Orleans, LA
Andrew James McBride Beaumont, TX
April Percilla West New Orleans, LA
DéVon Lorenzo Smith Fayetteville, AR POLITICAL SCIENCE
Sh’Vante Sh’Naice Wiggins Edwards, MS
Adiatu Binta Ceesay Ellenwood, GA
Mikayla Annalyse Wilson Port Gibson, MS
Shelby Barbara-Rose Guillebeaux-Magee Milwaukee, WI
SOCIOLOGY DaVona Amari Smith New Orleans, LA
Jalise Leigh Sims Canton, MS
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
SOCIAL WORK Nakia A. Atkinson Jackson, MS
ACCOUNTING
Imiya Teastin Bias Biloxi, MS
Christopher Louis Griffin Birmingham, AL 22
Undergraduate Degree Candidates TáBarius Tykwon Lindsey Heidelberg, MS
Javanna Arain Price Vicksburg, MS
Brenda Anne Watson Port Gibson, MS
Tamika Kusha Scott Natchez, MS
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Desmond Dewon Stewart Lena, MS
KeShaundra Monique Buchanan Lexington, MS
Quaylun R’mone Williams Monroe, LA
Jurnee Alise Calhoun Denver, CO
Derwin Dewayne Young II Jackson, MS
Luther Martin Davis Jr. Jackson, MS
SCHOOL OF EDUCATION AND PSYCHOLOGY
Dominic Elizabeth Foxworth Vicksburg, MS Jamyia Tytiana Hooker Silver Creek, MS
ELEMENTARY EDUCATION
Drewnisha Simone Hunter Vicksburg, MS
Jamya Alexus Griffin Madison, MS
TaMar Renee Jackson Gloster, MS
Brittany Taylor Smith McCall Creek, MS
Tara Chantrell Jackson Roseland, LA
GENERAL STUDIES
Dexter Pierre Jones Vicksburg, MS
Jalon LéCarl Anderson Columbia, MS
Kéara Teon Jones Woodville, MS
Jaron Car’ye Anderson Columbia, MS
Jasmine Monique Judge Vicksburg, MS
Markeshia Monae Boler Philadelphia, MS
Alexia R’Shaun Montgomery Port Gibson, MS
Tiffany Lorena Buckles Natchez, MS
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Undergraduate Degree Candidates PSYCHOLOGY
Eckwanise Dalcoto Butler Natchez, MS
Aliyah Lachasity Ayers Crystal Springs, MS
Tracey Denise Davis Natchez, MS
Orrion Mykell Bailey Hattiesburg, MS
David Lane Gordon Bailey, MS
Arianna Patrice Bowden Inglewood, CA
Justin Jamal Jones Opelousas, LA
Cearia Lerae Butler Dallas, TX
Ola Katrell Jones Vicksbrug, MS
Malik Tremayne Holbert Brandon, MS
Creshona Zy’kavia Kenny McComb, MS
Danae Reshon Johnson Brookhaven, PA
Darius Jeremy Major Nassau, New Providence
Latoria Laneshia Lindsey Vicksburg, MS
Kenyetta Lacha McClain Natchez, MS
Terra Charell Moten-Levi Tallulah, LA
Deja Cormelle Mitchell Duluth, GA
RECREATION Shannon Denise Paige Jackson, MS
Mya Laday Lloyd Missouri City, TX
Lataja M. Rankin Natchez, MS
Crishawn Malik Speight McComb, MS
Brittney Danielle Triplett Brandon, MS
SPORT MANAGEMENT
Candice Lynnette Turner Natchez, MS
Sandrea Michelle Hord Raleigh, MS
Jacorian Malik Wren Shelby, MS
Fiapaipai Julia Iosia Long Beach, CA Larae Denise Jashon Rascoe Indianapolis, IN
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Undergraduate Degree Candidates Phillip James Thompson Woodville, MS
LaRonica Shintrell Kaho-Carradine Natchez, MS
UNIVERSITY STUDIES
Jaylan Breona Kelly Fayette, MS
Charlotte M. Allen Vidalia, LA
Jacqueline D. Lewis Vicksburg, MS
Gwendolyn D. Baker Hermanville, MS
Connie Marie Linzy Vicksburg, MS
William E. Bond Surprise, AZ
Sajar Lecreas Oatis Bassfield, MS
Tiwanna L. Burns Mound Bayou, MS
Ava Jeannine Reaves Lakeland, FL
Melneka D. Dotson Port Gibson, MS
Aaron Michael Seay Stone Mountain, GA
Jasmine Dekala Ellis Natchez, MS
Uganda Nicole Smith Okavale, MS
Irma Jean Fakes Natchez, MS
Cylynthia Elosheka Ware-Bertrand Natchez, MS
Earnest Eugene Hall Jr. Vicksburg, MS
SaMel Louis Washington Natchez, MS
Demontae Tradell Hedrick Hermanville, MS Joel Jackson New Albany, MS Raven Denise Jones Greenwood, MS Tonya Nicole Jones Brookhaven, MS KaToria Lanette Jordan Fayette, MS
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Fall Commencement Ceremony
Faculty Listing ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES Dr. David Addae Dr. John Adjaye Dr. Steve K. Adzanu Dr. Kwabena Agyepong Mr. Michael Atkins Dr. Jermiah K. Billa Mr. Randy Derby Dr. Sam Nwaneri Dr. Erol Sarigul Dr. Angel Skinner
AGRICULTURE Dr. Dovi Alipoe Dr. Wandra Arrington Dr. Anthony Baffoe-Bonnie Dr. Barry L. Bequette Dr. Gwendolyn Boyd Dr. Edmund R. Buckner Dr. Franklin O. Chukwuma Dr. Daniel Collins Dr. Magid A. Dagher Dr. Michael O. Ezekwe Mr. Teddrick Hargrave Dr. Avis Joseph Dr. Leonard C. Kibet Dr. Keerthi Mandyam Dr. Melissa Mason Dr. Keith McGee Dr. Yan Meng Dr. Frank Mrema Dr. Samuel Mwangi Dr. Ananda Nanjundaswamy Dr. Victor N. Njiti Dr. Girish K. Panicker Dr. Tahir Rashid Dr. Chunquan Zhang
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES Ms. Monica Burr Dr. Jameka Grigsby Dr. Shavonda Jackson Ms. Brenita Jenkins Dr. Elena Kostyleva Dr. Justin Nash Dr. Babu Patlolla Dr. Marta Piva Dr. Debarshi Roy Dr. Robert Sizemore Dr. LaKeisha Stewart
BUSINESS Mr. Willie Anderson Dr. Joyce Buckner-Brown Ms. Marcharie Chambliss Dr. Charles Richardson Jr. Dr. Gregory S. Winter
CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS Dr. Stefan Cooper Ms. Sonia L. Eley Mr. Nnamdi Okoli Dr. Thomas Ondera Dr. Herve Sanghapi Dr. Anant Kumar Singh
EDUCATION AND PSYCHOLOGY Dr. Malinda Butler Dr. LaShundia Carson Dr. LaShonda Catchings Dr. S. Lynn Etheridge Dr. Felicia B. McGowan Dr. April Miley Dr. Tabitha A. Smith Dr. Ontario S. Wooden 27
ENGLISH, LANGUAGES, AND MASS COMMUNICATION Dr. Chiquita Apollos Dr. Heather Bailey Dr. Cecile Dianne Bunch Dr. J. Janice Coleman Mr. Henry L. Davis II Dr. Eric U. Dogini Dr. Jerry Domatob Dr. Timothy Dupree Mr. Stephen Forman Mr. Brian Kehler Dr. Anne-Marie Obilade Dr. Allison S. Olivier Dr. Ivan Ozherelev Dr. Larry Sanders Dr. Murray Shugars Ms. Toni Terrett Ms. Ana Torres Ms. Sheri Wallace Dr. Logan Wiedenfeld
FINE ARTS Mr. Johnny L. Allen Dr. Sean Daniels Mr. Tony Gordon Mr. Dewayne Griffin Mr. Melton R. Harvey II Dr. Byron G. Johnson Dr. Everson C. Martin Mr. David C. Miller Dr. Renardo Murray
Faculty Listing HEALTH, PHYSICAL EDUCATION, AND RECREATION
MILITARY SCIENCE
Dr. Dongwook Cho Mr. Willie McGowan Jr. Mr. Richard Myles Sr. Dr. Johnny D. Thomas
SFC James Carrillo 1LT Tabitha Davis Mr. Fred Hearn LTC Jackey Fortenberry Mr. Terrace Myles MSG Kirk P. Thompson
HUMAN SCIENCES
NURSING
Ms. Cinda Catchings Ms. Alice Leach Dr. Martha Ravola
Dr. Lacey Blessitt Ms. Brenda Collins Dr. Shirley Evers-Manly Ms. Marla Farmer Dr. Linda H. Godley Ms. Lauren Guedon Ms. Rachael Lambert Ms. Lisa Lehmann Ms. Ayesha Muhammad Dr. Walterine Nelson Dr. Ira Sewell Ms. Lesa Whitehead
J. D. BOYD LIBRARY Ms. Ariel Jordan Dr. Blanche Sanders Mr. Michael Strawberry Ms. Danielle A. Terrell Ms. Floyce Thomas
MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTER SCIENCE Dr. Thir Dangal Mr. Ramakrishna Dileep Kotagiri Dr. Sardar Haque Dr. Quingwen Hu Mr. Stephen B. Love Dr. Ramesh Maddali Ms. Tamaria Tinsley Dr. Tapan K. Tiwari Ms. Chunmun Trivedy Ms. Elizabeth Udemgba Dr. Lixin Yu Dr. Ping Zhang
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SOCIAL SCIENCES Dr. Dickson A. Idusuyi Dr. Vitalis A. Iheanacho Ms. Earnestine Lee Ms. Ashley N. Maryland Dr. Yulonda Eadie Sano
SOCIAL WORK Dr. Antrina M. Bell Dr. Dorothy A. Idleburg Dr. Valtreasa D. Tolliver-Cook
Emeriti ALEXANDER ACHOLONU Professor Emeritus of Biology
CAROLINE J.K. GAU Professor Emeritus of Agricultural Economics
PRENTISS K. ALFORD Professor Emeritus of Mathematics
PATRICK IGBOKWE Professor Emeritus of Agriculture
ELLA ANDERSON Professor Emeritus of Business
CHANDRA M. PATHAK Professor Emeritus of Chemistry
JOYCE J. BOLDEN Professor Emeritus of Music
JOSEPHINE McCANN POSEY Professor Emeritus of Education
PAUL A. BROOME Professor Emeritus of English
ALICE POWELL Professor Emeritus of Biology
ROBERT M. BUTLER Professor Emeritus of English
NOEL SCHRAUFNAGEL Professor Emeritus of English
BERNARD COTTON Professor Emeritus of Political Science
TROY J. STEWART Professor Emeritus of Chemistry
DAVID CROSBY Professor Emeritus of Communication
MALVIN A. WILLIAMS SR. Vice President Emeritus
ABRAM H. DUNBAR JR. Professor Emeritus of Biology
M. SAWAR ZAMAN Professor Emeritus of Biology
NORRIS ALLEN EDNEY SR. Professor Emeritus of Biology Dean Emeritus of the School of Arts and Sciences
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Committees COMMENCEMENT
STAFF USHERS
Ms. Kisha Bond Ms. Gretchen Buckles Ms. Kimberly Buie Ms. Lekita Carr Dr. LaShundia Carson Ms. Patricia Keys Mr. Windell Harried Ms. Kimberly Morgan Myles Ms. Julia Odom Ms. Karen Shedrick Ms. Belinda Smith Ms. LaToyia Smith Dr. Tracee Smith Mr. Desmond Stewart Chief Douglas Stewart Ms. LLJuna Weir
Ms. Dwantra Anderson Mr. Emanuel Barnes Jr. Mr. LaZerick Brown Ms. Monique Brown Mr. Roy Burr Mr. Carey Butler Ms. LaTasha Coleman Ms. Dawn Davis Ms. Laura Drake Ms. Inger Frye Ms. Casnacita Gray Ms. Janice Harris Ms. DonZella January Ms. Antonia King Ms. Patrina Leonard Ms. Zandra Lowe
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Ms. Linda Smith Ms. Margeria Smith Ms. Shirley Tinner Ms. Angela Wynn
THE ALCORN PLEDGE
ALMA MATER The Alcorn Ode
I hereby solemnly pledge loyalty, devotion, and dedication to Alcorn State University, my alma mater, for its tireless and infinite efforts to educate me both academically and socially so that I might avail myself of the life, liberty, and happiness that our country offers.
I pledge continued support to Alcorn State University by maintaining active membership in the National Alumni Association, wherever I may reside. I further pledge to uphold the ideals, standards, and traditions of my alma
Beneath the shade of giant trees, Fanned by a balmy southern breeze Thy classic walls have dared to stand A giant thou art in learning’s band; O, Alcorn dear, our mother, hear Thy name, we praise, thy name we sing.
Thy name thy sons have honored far; A crown of gems thy daughters are; When country called her flag to bear, The Gold and Purple answered, “Here” O, Alcorn dear, our mother, hear Thy name, we praise, thy name we sing.
mater to the best of my ability. Far as our race thy clan shall needFinally, I pledge to be an exemplary citizen for this nation and all other nations as I render service in a respectful, honorable manner and thereby bring reverence and honor to Alcorn State
So far to progress they shalt lead Thy sons with clashing arms of trade; In useful arts full garbed thy maids; O, Alcorn dear, we proudly bear Thy standard on to victory.
University, my alma mater.
written by Dr. Connie Larkins Williams ’69 and Dr. John E. Walls Jr. ’68
written by Mrs. J.S. (Estelle Bomar) Himes