Anderson-Merriweather Alumni Society, most notably known as AMAS, was named for Zachariah M. Anderson and Evangeline Harris Merriweather, pioneers whose shoulders all African Americans who have attended Indiana State University stand.
Della Cayson, the 2024 Teacher of the Year, is an exceptional U.S. History teacher at Dutchtown High School, part of Henry County Schools in Georgia. With 15 years of experience, she is not only a respected educator but also a pillar of the school community. Della plays a vital role in enriching student life through her leadership in programs such as the Black History Program, Sunshine Club, and Book Club, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
As the lead academic facilitator, she spearheads weekly academic boot camps that drive remarkable student performance, consistently leading her students to achieve the highest percentage gains on End-of-Course assessments. Her innovative teaching methods, coupled with her unwavering dedication, inspire both students and colleagues. Della’s passion for education is evident in the way she tirelessly advocates for her students, providing them with the tools, support, and encouragement they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Her outstanding commitment to nurturing young minds and her ability to create meaningful connections have cemented her reputation as not only an exemplary educator but also a compassionate mentor. Della’s impact reaches far beyond the
Della Cayson
Noah Takes Gold
Noah Malone’s achievement at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris was a significant milestone in his career, marking his first individual gold medal after previously winning silver in the event during the Tokyo Paralympics. He ran a time of 10.71 in the T12 100m final, and while he was initially narrowly beaten by Turkey’s Serkan Yildirim by one-hundredth of a second, Yildirim’s results were later disqualified, upgrading Malone to the gold medal. Malone’s first-round time of 10.75 won his heat and was the fastest among all athletes in the field, further demonstrating his dominance in the event.
This victory added to Malone’s already impressive Paralympic résumé, which included two individual silver medals and a gold as part of a relay team from the previous Games. The 2024 Paralympic Games, like the Olympics, are a major international sports competition for athletes with disabilities, and Malone’s performance at such a prestigious event further cemented his place as one of the top Paralympic sprinters.
2024 Teacher of the Year (contd...)
classroom, leaving a lasting legacy of academic excellence and personal growth in every student she teaches.
Confidence level: High. This enhanced version provides a richer and more detailed portrayal of her contributions, underscoring both her professional and personal impact.
Empowering Excellence
H. Donny Mimms
H. Donny Mimms, Assistant Principal at Lawrence North High School, has been a dedicated educator since 2009, bringing over a decade of experience in fostering academic excellence and leadership. He earned both his bachelor’s degree in Speech Communications with a focus on Public Relations and a master’s degree in Education from Indiana State University, showcasing his strong foundation in communication and educational leadership.
At Lawrence North, Donny is known for his commitment to creating a positive and inclusive school environment, working closely with students, teachers, and staff to promote academic success and personal development. His leadership extends beyond academics, as demonstrated by his role in coaching the Girls Flag Football team through its inaugural season. Under his guidance, the team achieved an outstanding 6-1 record and clinched the MIC Conference Championship, reflecting his ability to inspire and lead students both on and off the field.
Donny’s blend of strong communication skills, educational expertise, and passion for student success has made him a vital part of the Lawrence North community. His efforts not only impact students’ academic journeys but also contribute to building a wellrounded, supportive school culture where students can thrive in all aspects of their lives.
Noah Malone
Back In The Day
John Brewer and Vince “Slick” Allen were all smiles as they hung out with actor John Amos who signed autographs after a Sycamore football practice in the 1970s.
ISU 1969, actor Ernest Thomas proudly stood alongside his Kappa fraternity brothers and the elegant Kappa Kittens.
Sumalayo Jackson to lead The Charles E. Brown African American Cultural Center
Around The Forest
LaMarkis (Markis) Stevenson Small Commercial Underwriter @ Nationwide Imani Crumble IT Developer United States Department of Defense
Darius L. Mahome Project Engineer / Construction InspectorShrewsberry & Associates
