Fall 20025 Commencement Booklet

FALL 2025

Commencement of Jackson State University

®

Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center Denise J. Gregory, Ph.D. Interim President

Jackson State University® | 2

FALL 2025 commencement contents Congratulatory Messages | 4 - 9 Graduate Commencement Speaker | 10 Graduate Commencement Order of Exercises | 11 - 13 Graduate Candidates for Degrees | 14 - 19 Undergraduate Commencement Speaker | 20 Undergraduate Commencement Order of Exercises | 21 - 23 Honors and Awards and Du Bois-Harvey Honors College Graduates | 24 Undergraduate Candidates for Degrees | 25 - 29 Board of Trustees, Mississippi State Institutions of Higher Learning | 30 Jackson State University Executive Cabinet and Deans | 31 Graduate and Undergraduate Commencement Participants | 32 Commencement Committee | 33 Notations to Guests | 34

Jackson State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Jackson State University.

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FA L L 2 0 2 5 c o m m e n c e m e n t

congratulatory

messages

OFFICE of the PRESIDENT

Dear Fall 2025 Graduates, Today marks an important milestone in your lives. As I preside over my first commencement ceremonies as interim president, I do so with deep pride as a Jackson State alumna and in honor of each of you.

Throughout your time here, you met hard deadlines, long labs, late shifts and unexpected challenges. You learned to collaborate, to persist and to lead. You now graduate from Jackson State fully prepared to solve problems, uplift communities and open new doors of opportunity.

To the families, mentors and friends who supported you along the way, thank you. I extend a special salute to our first‑generation graduates, student‑parents, veterans and those who returned to finish what they started. Your resilience enriches our campus community and inspires us all.

As graduates, you now join a global JSU alumni family who lead in classrooms, research labs, boardrooms, creative industries and communities around the world. I encourage you to stay connected, support future Tigers and continue strengthening the path for those who follow in your footsteps.

Lead with character. Serve with purpose. Set Thee Standard.

Wherever life takes you, remember that you will always have a home at THEE I Love. Congratulations, graduates.

In Tiger Service,

Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Interim President Jackson State University®

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1400 John R. Lynch St. | PO Box 17390 | Jackson, MS 39217

Jackson State University® | 6

MAYOR chokwe antar lumumba letter

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Office of the Mayor

John Horhn, Mayor

219 South President Street Post Office Box 17 Jackson, Mississippi 39205-0017 Telephone: 601-960-1084 Facsimile: 601-960-2193

December 5, 2025 Dear Jackson State University Graduates, On behalf of the City of Jackson, I extend congratulations as you celebrate this remarkable achievement. Today marks not only the close of your studies but the beginning of an exciting new chapter defined by your drive, perseverance, and vision for the future.

Jackson State University’s enduring tradition of excellence has shaped leaders, innovators, and changemakers for generations. This institution stands as a beacon in our city, strengthened by scholarly pursuit, and service to the community. We take great pride in Jackson State’s role in cultivating talent and leadership that extends well beyond our city’s borders.

As graduates, you now become part of a legacy of distinguished alumni contributing to communities around the globe. Your success brings honor not only to your families and alma JSuNAA PRESIDENT mater but to the city that has supported your journey.

We trust that you will continue to letter exemplify the values of resilience, service, and purpose as you pursue your aspirations.

Congratulations once again on reaching this milestone. The City of Jackson celebrates with you and looks forward to seeing the positive impact you will make in the world.

With best wishes for your future,

John Horhn, Mayor City of Jackson, Mississippi

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Jackson State National Alumni Association, Inc. P.O. Box 17820 | Jackson, MS 39217 | www.jsunaa.org Phone 601.979.2281 | Toll Free 800.578.6622

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Mrs. Patrease Edwards, President Mr. Willie Nathan, 1st Vice President Mr. Je’Juan Gray, 2nd Vice President Mrs. Brendolyn Hart-Glover, Secretary Mrs. Tarnika Love-Anderson, Asst. Secretary Ms. Thelma Strong, Treasurer Mrs. Meshelle Rawls, Financial Secretary Mr. Steven Clark, Sr., Parliamentarian Rev. Doris Brietta Smith, Chaplain Mrs. Kymberly Wiggins, Asst. Chaplain Mr. Matthew Bradford, Sergeant-At-Arms Ms. Whitney Henderson, Reporter Dr. Earlexia Norwood, Immediate Past President

December 5, 2025

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS Ms. Pamela Bydon-Bunker, Far West Mr. Larry Cameron, Midwest Dr. Damian Thomas, Mississippi Ms. Stephanie Hall, Northeast Ms. Freida Dale, Southeast Mr. Willard Hart, Southwest

As you transition from student to alumnus, I encourage you to remain connected and engaged with the JSUNAA. Together with the Department of Alumni and Constituency Relations, we provide countless opportunities for involvement, networking, and professional growth at the local, regional, and national levels. Your participation is key to keeping the Tiger spirit alive. Lend your time, your talents, and your voice to make a difference—not only for yourself but for future generations of JSU Tigers.

BOARD MEMBERS Far West Region Mr. Michael Easter Dr. Thelma James Day Midwest Region Mrs. Angela Waller Dr. Jacquelyn Thomas-Miller Mississippi Region Mrs. Tammy Terrell-Brooks Mr. Joshua Winsley Northeast Region Dr. John Sampson Jr. Southeast Region Mr. Kenneth Archer Ms. Laura Lewis Southwest Region Mr. Raymond Woodfork Ms. Bridgshe’ Freeman National Board Members (Emeritus) Dr. John Peoples Dr. Hilliard Lackey, III COMMITTEE CHAIRS Mrs. Lillian Wilkinson-Maynor, Awards & Recognition Mr. Damarcus Haywood, Budget Mr. Steven Clark, Sr, Constitution & Bylaws Mr. Willie Nathan, Fundraising Mr. Jerome Brown, Investment Mr. Larry Cameron, Fellows Foundation Mr. Darryl Pilate, Development Foundation Mr. Michael Jefferson, ICT Mr. Je’Juan Gray, Membership Ms. Stephanie Hall, Political Action Ms. Sharon Davis, Nominations & Elections Mrs. Ranetta Goss Gay, Scholarship Ms. Robinette Rasberry, Chief of Staff Ms. Jewel Jackson, Assistant Chief of Staff

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Congratulations, Fall 2025 Graduates!

On behalf of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc. (JSUNAA), it is my honor and joy to extend heartfelt congratulations as you join the proud and powerful ranks of our alumni family! You have reached a tremendous milestone, and as you prepare to leave “Thee I Love,” know that your relationship with Jackson State University does not end here—it evolves.

You now carry the legacy of JSU wherever you go, serving as an ambassador of excellence, leadership, and Tiger pride.

I also invite you to make your first official alumni connection by joining us at the Mid-Winter Leadership Development Council Meeting, taking place February 27 – March 1, 2026, in the beautiful Queen City of Charlotte, North Carolina. This event is an excellent opportunity to meet fellow alumni, build leadership skills, and be a face of inspiration for other young graduates.

Your JSUNAA membership is already active—your dues are covered through June 30, 2026. Wear your alumni lapel pin and carry your membership card proudly as symbols of your lifelong bond with Jackson State University. Your membership opens doors to a dynamic network of alumni who are making an impact across the nation and around the world.

Stay connected by visiting www.jsunaa.org for updates on upcoming events, alumni spotlights, and new initiatives. We value your ideas and welcome your feedback as we continue to grow and strengthen our organization.

Congratulations once again on your outstanding achievement. I look forward to seeing you soon and celebrating your continued success as part of the JSU alumni family. Remember—you are, and always will be, Thee Jackson State University!

With Tiger Pride,

Patrease Edwards, JSUNAA President president@jsunaa.org

2025 Fall graduate ceremony Commencement Speaker Frazier K. Wilson, Ed.D., serves as vice president and director of workforce development and diversity outreach at the Shell USA Foundation. A proud 1990 graduate of Jackson State University, he earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting and later completed a master’s and doctorate in educational leadership at Texas Southern University.

Wilson is recognized as a leading corporate social responsibility strategist. He helped launch major initiatives, including the One HBCU Initiative—a multimillion-dollar effort supporting historically Black colleges and universities—and the HERO employee giving program for Shell employees.

His commitment to education led to the Shell Regional Science Lab Challenge, benefiting schools across four states. His civic work includes founding Houston’s Back to School Fest and contributing to the Houston Super Bowl Host Committee, the Houston World Cup Bid Committee and the Greater Houston Partnership Upskill Houston initiative.

Dr. Frazier K. Wilson, ’90 Vice President, Shell USA Foundation Director, Workforce Development & Diversity Outreach

“

Success is not just about what you achieve for yourself — it’s about what you inspire others to accomplish. Every opportunity is a chance to lift someone else higher.

Wilson has held leadership roles with the Smithsonian Science Education Center, the Texas Southern University Foundation and 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston. He serves on the board of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and on advisory councils for Jackson State University, Texas Southern University and KIPP Academy–Houston.

His honors include induction into the Texas Southern University College of Education Hall of Fame and recognition by Children at Risk as one of its Thirty Most Influential Leaders. He is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Wilson is married to the former Miki R. Bolton, a fellow Jackson State Class of 1990 graduate.

”

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graduate commencement Order of exercises 9:00 A.M. Preselfannie W. McDaniels, Ph.D. Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Presiding Officer Prelude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “Triumphal March” from Aida. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Giuseppe Verdi University Orchestra Lowell Hollinger, Conductor Academic Processional Facilitator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Preselfannie W. McDaniels, Ph.D. Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Processional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pomp and Circumstance March No. 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sir Edward Elgar University Orchestra (Audience remains seated) Presentation of Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .JSU Joint Army and Air Force ROTC Color Guard (Audience stands)

National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Star-Spangled Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Francis Scott Key Led by Jalen Wilson, Senior Music Performance Major, Music Technology Concentration University Orchestra (Audience remains standing) Negro National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J. Rosamond Johnson and James Weldon Johnson Led by Julia Johnson, Senior Music Education Major, Vocal Concentration University Orchestra (Audience remains standing) Invocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dennis Williams, Ph.D. Interim Chair, Department of Educational, Multicultural and Exceptional Studies Pastor, New Caney Creek Missionary Baptist Church Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Interim President, Jackson State University Musical Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . There is a Balm in Gilead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arranged by Raymond Wise University Chorale Harry Cecil, DMA, Director

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Introduction of the Commencement Speaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sheila Porterfield, Ph.D. Associate Dean, College of Business

Commencement Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Frazier Wilson, Ed.D. Vice President, Shell USA Foundation Director, Workforce Development Diversity Outreach Presentation of Citation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Presentation of Candidates for Degrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preselfannie W. McDaniels, Ph.D. Carlos Wilson, Ph.D, Interim Dean Nicholas J. Hill, Ph.D., Dean Tony Latiker, Ed.D., Dean Ramzi Kafoury, Sc.D., Interim Dean Rico Chapman, Ph.D., Dean Wilbur Walters, Jr., Ph.D., Dean

Graduate Studies College of Business College of Education and Human Development College of Health Sciences College of Liberal Arts College of Science, Engineering and Technology

Conferring of Degrees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Induction of Graduates into the Jackson State University National Alumni Association. . . . . . . . .Patrease Edwards, ’ 99, ’ 08 President, Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc.

Alumni Pledge:

I hereby solemnly pledge unbroken allegiance to my Alma Mater in appreciation for the opportunity for development afforded me at Jackson State University.

I pledge active membership in the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Incorporated, wherever I may be. Through association with my fellow alumni, I shall forever do my best to uphold the ideals and traditions of my Alma Mater.

I pledge, as a person, to exemplify high ideals by rendering positive and dignified service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world, thus, living to bring honor and respect to my Alma Mater.

Awarding of Degrees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Musical Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Revelations 19:1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A. Jeffrey LaVelley Arranged by Trey McLaughlin University Chorale Harry Cecil, DMA, Director

Closing Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Alma Mater (Audience stands)

Jackson Fair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T.D. Pawley Arranged by F. D. Hall Led by Ryan Fields, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration University Wind Ensemble Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear Thee I love, my dear old college home Thee I love wherever I may roam Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear.

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Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear Thee I love thy colors rich and bright Thee I love, the blue and the white Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear.

Refrain Hail, hail to thee, yes, hail to thee; Hail to the college of my heart, Hail, hail to thee, yes, hail to thee; Hail, to the college of my heart. *Hymn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . God Be With You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .William Tomer Led by Ryan Fields, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration University Orchestra (Audience remains standing) God be with you till we meet again;

By His counsel guide, uphold you.

With His sheep securely fold you; God be with you till we meet again!

God be with you till we meet again; Keep love’s banner floating o’er you; Smite death’s threat’ning wave before you; God be with you till we meet again!

Refrain Till we meet, till we meet, Till we meet at Jesus’ feet, Till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again! Amen *Following the custom initiated by President Luther G. Barrett, the hymn “God Be With You” has been sung at all Jackson State University Commencements since 1911.

Benediction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dennis Williams, Ph.D. Recessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Coronation March. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky University Orchestra (Audience remains seated)

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graduate candidates for degrees

* Summer 2025 Conferment Jackson State University® | 14

Tony Latiker, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

Doctor of education

Early Childhood Education

Curtis Edward Brown

Dissertation: The Impact of Academic and Social Integration on Persistence and Academic Success Among First-Generation African American LGBTQ+ Students at an HBCU in the Southeastern United States Advisor: Dr. Felix Okojie

*Amy C. Davis

Pearl Latham Bailey

Dissertation: “Faculty Perceptions on The Utilization of Technology (Al) at HBCUs Through the Lens of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)” Advisor: Dr. Walter Brown

*Charcy Elizabeth Robinson- Rogers

Dissertation: “A Study of the lntersective Influence of Race and Gender on the Career Advancement of Black Women Faculty at Predominantly White Institutions.”

Advisor: Dr. Felix Okojie

Dissertation: An Examination of the Factors Impacting Relationship Building Among Minority Families Participating in a Home Visitation Program in Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Tony Latiker Dissertation: Coaching, Culture, and Care: A Narrative Study of How Hip-Hop Majorette Dance Builds Safe Spaces for Black Girls in Jackson, Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Kathy Bryant

*Courtney N. White

Dissertation: The Effects of Differentiated, Small Group Mather Interventions on Students’ Academic Growth Advisor: Dr. Kathy Bryant

Trinity D. Taylor

Dissertation: An Examination of the Reading Comprehension Strategies Utilized in a Rural Kindergarten Classroom in a Central Mississippi School District Advisor: Dr. Tony Latiker

Doctor of Philosophy

Educational Administration Gregory L. Anderson

Dissertation: Instructor’s Perceptions of Their Self-Efficacy when Integrating a Multicultural Curriculum Advisor: Dr. Jeton McClinton

Jerrica D. Frierson Davis

Dissertation: Factors that Lead to High Turnover of Employees at an Urban HBCU. Advisor: Dr. Benjamin Ngwudike

Michelle N. Williams

Dissertation: Strategies for Enhancing Retention and Persistence of Adult Learners in Higher Education Advisor: Dr. Bettye R. Graves

Urban Higher Education Christopher Martin Avery

Dissertation: “Exploring the differences among the level of student engagement among African American male student-athletes versus African American male non-athletes” Advisor: Dr. Walter Brown 15 | Fall 2025 Commencement

*Linda F. Delaney

Sharendra L. Evans

Dissertation: Factors Influencing Persistence Towards Graduation of First Generation African American Male Students in Higher Education Advisor: Dr. Felix Okojie

Caleb Terrell Gaines

Dissertation: “Exploring how Diversity and Inclusion DEI Initiatives Influence Campus Climate and Students’ Sense of Belonging” Advisor: Dr. Felix Okojie

Demarcus Lynn Hopson

Dissertation: “An Exploratory Study of the Role of Community Colleges’ Leadership Practices and Organizational Culture on Black Male Students’ Success through the Lens of the Competing Values Framework.”

Advisor: Dr. Felix Okojie

Ramzi Kafoury, Sc.D. Interim Dean, College of Health Sciences

Doctor of public health PUBLIC HEALTH *Valerie Childress Bailey

Dissertation: “Associations Between Job Demands, Job Resources, and Intent to Leave Nursing Workforce in Mississippi: Policy Implications” Advisor: Dr. Yalanda M. Barner

Breniss Duffy Crosby

Dissertation: Association of Trihalomethane Concentrations with Timing of Menarche: the NHANES, 2017-2020 Advisor: Dr. Azad Bhuiyan

Ashley Marie Hollins

Dissertation: The Nature and Scope of Antibiotic Resistance Concerning Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI) in Central Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Clifton Addison

*Ryan Anthony Johnson

Dissertation: Assessment of Food Security Classification, Self-Care Management Behaviors, and Glycemic Control Among Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at a Federally Qualified Health Center in Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Mary Shaw

*Eugenia King

Dissertation: Black Mothers’ Birthing Experiences in Mississippi Hospitals: An Exploratory Study Advisor: Dr. Mary Shaw

*Stephen O. Okojie

*Keneshia LaShon Lee

Thandika Meshelle Rawls

Katrina M. Thompson

Dissertation: “The Efficacy of Metacognition on the Academic Performance of International Students in a Diverse and Inclusive University through the Lens of Bandura Social Cognitive Theory” Advisor: Dr. Walter Brown Dissertation: Comparison of Key Student Engagement Indicators of Minority Students Advisor: Dr. Walter Brown

Austin Rayford

Dissertation: Perceptions of the Impact of Cultural Engagement in Service Learning on Academic Success for First Generation Students of Color Advisor: Dr. Felix Okojie

*Kenneth Ray Williams, Jr.

Dissertation: ”Perceptions of Impact of Student Engagement on Persistence of Black Male Students” Advisor: Dr. Felix Okojie

Dissertation: Exploring Factors Influencing Primary Care Provider Adoption and Utilization of Telehealth Post-Covid 2019: A Qualitative Study Informed by the Diffusion of Innovation Theory Advisor: Dr. Mustafa Younis Dissertation: An Intervention to Reduce Hypertension in One-Minority Serving Federally Qualified Health Center: Policy Implications Advisor: Dr. Yalanda M. Barner

Da’Chiron Maree Tresvant

Dissertation: Association Between Health Literacy and Asthma among Mississippi Adults Advisor: Dr. Vincent Mendy

Rico Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D. Dean, College of Science, Engineering and Technology

Public Administration

Chemistry

Norah Ahmad Alghamdi

Kaelin Anthony Gates

Doctor of Philosophy

Dissertation: An Analysis of Saudi Women Unemployment and the Impact of Vision 2030 Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Mohammed Aljohani

Dissertation: Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) of 2010: Impact Analysis on Child Poverty in the U.S Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Blessing Ime Asuquo-Ekpo

Dissertation: Regional Variations of Gender Inequality in Healthcare: The Role of Affordable Care Act on Healthcare Access and Outcomes for Women Advisor: Dr. Andre Hines

William J. Atkins

Dissertation: An Examination of Policy Responses to the Gun Violence in K-12 Schools in the United States Advisor: Dr. Jae-Young Ko

Tamara Bailey

Dissertation: The Perceptions of Human Resource Professionals on the Legalization of Medical Marijuana: Industry Sector Impact Advisor: Dr. Gloria Billingsley

Tyrone J. Buckley

Dissertation: A Case Study: Violent Crime and the Impact of Staffing and Funding Levels in the City of Jackson Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Border-Ere Fiemotonghan

Dissertation: Assessing the Impact of Cigarette Excise Tax Increase on Smoking Prevalence and Cardiovascular Disease Rates in Mississippi: Implications for Policy Interventions.

Advisor: Dr. Andre Hines

Nicole E. Gholar-Harris

Dissertation: From Beats to Ballots: Hip-hop’s Role in Policymaking and Political Engagement Among Young Voters Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Gloria T. Hirse

Dissertation: Infrastructure Distress and Sustainable Development: A Study of the Nigerian Power Sector Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Doctor of Philosophy

Dissertation: Designing Photocatalytic Nanomaterial for Capturing and Degrading PFAS Advisor: Dr. Paresh C. Ray

MD Taohedul Islam

Dissertation: Chalcogel and ChalcocarbogelSynthesis, Local Structures and Applications in Liand Na-Ion Batteries Advisor: Dr. M. Saiful Islam

Computational Data-Enabled Sciences and Engineering Muna Abdelrahim

Dissertation: Equitable Automation: Unraveling Bias in Machine Learning for Fair Lending Practices Advisor: Dr. Tor A. Kwembe

Ashley N. Abraham

Dissertation: Worldwide Surface Soil Similarity Search Advisor: Dr. Natarajan Meghanathan

*Corwin Alexander Stanford

Dissertation: Machine Learning for AnomalyBased Intrusion Detection in Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems Advisor: Dr. Tor A. Kwembe

Engineering *Avipriyo Chakraborty

Dissertation: Effect of Deep-Rooted Vetiver Grass as a Bio-Anchor on Slope Stabilization Advisor: Dr. Sadik Khan

Henry Kini Chia

Dissertation: Impact of Seasonal Variation on the Performance of Helical Piles in Highly Expansive Clay in Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Sadik Khan

Li Junjie

Dissertation: Nature-Based Solutions for Coastal Restoration: Biopolymer-Treated Recycled Glass Sand for Coastal Erosion Mitigation and Resilience Enhancement Advisor: Dr. Kejun Wen

Urban and Regional Planning Bri’Anna Baber

Dissertation: Advancing Transportation Equity through Strategic Language: A ‘Talking Bridgey’ Approach for Urban Policy and Funding Advisor: Dr. Edmund Merem

Lucie Khachan Choufani

Dissertation: Food & Economic Security in Latin America and the Caribbean: Implications for a Resilient Food System and Sustainable Development in a Post—Pandemic Advisor: Dr. Edmund Merem

Larry Weems

Dissertation: Perceptions of High-Rises Living Amid Rapid Urban Population Growth: A City’s Dream or a Residents’ Nightmare Advisor: Dr. Talya D. Thomas Tony Latiker, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

educational specialist Educational Administration and Supervision (K-12) Sharon A. Blancher Derek Edward Dory Latisha L. Johnson *Henry L. Jones Quinton Maurice McGowan Marcus Monger *Autralius Sanders *Bianca Marie Shelly *Ashley D. Williams Psychometry Candace Braxton Marnisha K. Brinston Kashyla Shantere Brooks Melissa Lanette Cobb Consuella A. Davis Allie Smith Goza Joycelynn Horton *Shirley Jones *Sonia Jones *Erica Demetris Knox Tracy Mayes *Joanna McMillen-Hellums Christina Michelle Moseley Justice R. Parker Jason Allen Reid Tabitha Lafaye Rollins *Shayla Swan Annah Elisabeth Tackett Stephanie L. Twiner School Counseling Cassidy Gatson Jennifer F. McDonald Jackson State University® | 16

Mercedes Phipps

specialist in education Education Kailyn N. Collins Derrick Twan Curtis *Phylicia L Holmes Lacey James Tegra Faye Johnson *Carlo McClelland *Oceana Deaundra Danielle McGowan *Katrina McHuley Monique L. Thomas Deidre Lee Triplett Erica Ward Kira A. Williams Nicholas J. Hill, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business

master of business administration

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION *Mohammed Saleh AlMarri *Deandrea Raychell Bolton *Emily Rachel Britton *JaLieya Nicolette Brown Keely Patrice Burton *Brandy Lake’sh Caston Zionasia Brooke Cunningham Benjamin Drake *Austin Christopher Edmonds *Kimberly Charisse Funchess *Amanda Hart *Tiffany Danielle Henderson Joshua Jeremiah Higgins Lacreshia Jackson *CaDeidra L. Jefferson *Douglas Johnson *Kourtney Khaleah Jones Jordan Camille Jones Nieshia Jones Joeonna Rowena Kidio *Joshua A. Knight Asif Mahmud *Bryan C. McKinney *Chephon LaCole Morrison *Olanike Olagbegi Demarcus M. Oliver *Francia Lajoie Pressoir 17 | Fall 2025 Commencement

Jasmine Teonia Russell Georgia P. Sims *Joshua T. Smith Felicia Diane West *Marquita S. Williamson

master of professional Accountancy Professional Accountancy *James Michael Berggren *Makayla Brown *Alethia Rosalind Chatfield *Simone Candys Evanson *Rayvan Louise Green *Camryn Danielle Greer *Tamera Omya Jackson Cedric LaMar McCoy *Nyesha Nicole Nealon Curry Alexander Peeples *Aja Catrice Purvis *Caliyah Tanae Sharp *Zacchaeus Ka’han Smith *Raven Square *Sade’ Shreen Stewart *Jakiyah Stirgus Kamisha VaToya Patrick Thames Tony Latiker, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

master of arts in teaching TEACHING *Charnessa Peyton Alexander Latyra Nicole Ashley Lauryn Bervine Shanavia Kaliya Black Amber Cowans *Shantell Edwards Vanesha Harris Brandy Nicole Hicks Kathy L. Johnson Jaya Nadijah Jones Shamara Latrice Littlejohn MaRyah Rayn Lowe Kendrick McDonald Sharon Marie Powell Oshayla Self Iniki Turner

master of Science Clinical Mental Health Counseling Schquita Coleman Alyssa Michelle Moncrief Smith Jamari J. Noland Alisha M. Taylor Chiquita Sentay Washington Asia Haley Williams Camilia Woods Educational Administration and Supervision Melanie Barnes John-Wesley Deonte Ingram Keisha A Knott-Wilson *Isaiah Arnell Rush *Tiffany Daneelle’ Young Rehabilitation Counseling Kindalin Blocker Chandra Nicole Foster Antwon Mekel Jefferson Tangela Myles Kaylika Bre’nay Pulphus Laletrice Reed-Richards Sport Science *Brandon J. Morton *Jacarrio D’Untez Wallace Jacobian Montreal Morgan Alexis A. Williams Madisone Alauryn-Elyse Hatten Terance Jarrod Jones Cayman Jajuan Ruffin Montavious Dwight Thornburg

master of Science in Education Early Childhood Education *D’Erica Beasley Shamekia M. Coleman Narrah I. Drake Ebony Nicole Gunn *Felicia C. Guynes Natasha Hickman

Cortise Jones Tori S. Keys Hope McKines Stephanie Poole *Ashlyne Prince Dyon Ruffin Shervokie D. Seals Dominique Sims Tyeisha LaSha’e Smith Jalonda Michelle Smith Brehanna Shantel Thomas Eddie Nat Thomas Angela E. Williams Dakalya Wilson

Rico D. Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

Health, Physical Education and Recreation

Advisor: Danielle L. Littlefield

Dominique James Edward Howard Benton II School Counseling Ta’Shayna LaTrice Dupree Adana T. Pierre Peyton R. Terrell Special Education Vanessa Pinkston-Collins Ramzi Kafoury, Sc.D. Interim Dean, College of Health Sciences

master of Public Health Public Health Ariana Allie Mae Holman Jakayla Janae Lipsey Deandria Manuel Ja’Kela V. Reese Shalaeria Williams

master of Social Work Social Work Pernetta B. Brown *Lakevis Chandler *Toni Lachelle Cockerham *Chasity C. Cornelius *Lakeshia T. Ellis Alexis Ingram *Zerquita Jamison *Katrinna Miller Kambrea Deshunte Shaw Tomica Shintia Stowers

master of arts

Criminology and Justice Services Victoria S. Kelly English Larry C. Clark III

Thesis: Horatio, The Watcher

History Xavier W. Frink

Thesis: Justice and Reconciliation: From Henry Highland Garnet to Harvey Johnson Advisor: Dr. Kofi Barima

Political Science

master of Science Journalism and Media Studies *Te’Jah Den’e Fuller Jasmine Monique Sanders

Project: Journalism Podcast or Pilot Study: Nature Hair vs. Newsroom Advisor: Dr. LI-jing A. Chang

Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D. Dean, College of Science, Engineering and Technology

master of arts

Urban and Regional Planning Susan S. Q. Johnson Satara D Patrick

Elissa McCorkle Hudson Yolanda Catrice Howard *Jamaurea Smith

master of Science

master of Music Education

Biology

Music Education John L. Caster Tyler D. Coleman Makayla A. Miller Nicholas David Organ

Thesis: The Kuumba Approach: Combating Miseducation by Teaching Music from an Afrocentric Perspective Advisor: Dr. Lisa Beckley-Roberts

master of public Policy and Administration Public Policy and Administration LaTricia MaShel Bailey Kristen Wright Williams

*Keyanna L. Conner *Denver T. Hall *Kourtlyn Alicia Jacobs *Kambrial J. Love

Thesis: Phytoplankton Community Composition: Integrating Morphological and Molecular Approaches Advisor: Dr. Brent Thoma

*Reneisha K. Sweet

Thesis: Development and Validation of QPCR Assays for Detecting and Monitoring Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus Argus) in Environmental DNA Samples Advisor: Dr. Brent Thoma

Computational Data-Enabled Sciences and Engineering Nivetha Murugesan COMPUTER SCIENCE Terry Dewayne Haygood Lakshmi Sowjanya Maguluri Mahdi Zulfikar

Jackson State University® | 18

ENGINEERING *Abdulraheem Sami Alzghoul

Thesis: The Use of the Fiber-Reinforced Recycled Plastic (FR2P) to Produce High-Strength Structural Members Advisor: Dr. Sadik Khan

Cihuai Chen

Thesis: Sustainable Enhancement of Cement-Based Grouting Materials Using Chitosan Biopolymer Advisor: Dr. Kejun Wen

Clairice Simone Magee Anika Mahzabin

Thesis: Phytoremediation Using Vetiver Grass in Leachate Contaminated Soil and Water Advisor: Dr. Kejun Wen

*A. Q. M. Zohuruzzaman

Thesis: Assessment of Railway Ballast Fouling Using Resistivity Sensor Advisor: Dr. Sadik Khan

Hazardous Materials Management Joseph Bobby Latham

Thesis: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of EMR Preparedness: *Hurricane Harvey Advisor: Dr. Danuta Leszczynska

master of Science in education Technology Education Samyetta S. Shelby *Kenya Tawanza Washington

19 | Fall 2025 Commencement

2025 Fall undergraduate Ceremony Commencement Speaker Mark G. Henderson, Ph.D., serves as chair of the Department of Speech Communication and Theatre at Jackson State University. He received a Bachelor of Arts in speech communication studies and dramatic art from Jackson State, a Master of Arts in communications and urban studies from Michigan State University, a master’s in theatre from Texas A&M University and a doctorate in communications from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Mark G. Henderson, ’91 Chair of the Department of Speech Communication and Theatre

“

God doesn’t always choose the qualified, but He always qualifies the Chosen.

Henderson is the founder and artistic director of MADDRAMA (Making a Difference Doing Respectable and Meaningful Art), a nationally recognized student theatre troupe known for original plays and specialized performances. His students call him the “Star Maker,” a nod to the many former students and mentees now performing on local, regional and Broadway stages, as well as in television and film.

As a theater director, motivational speaker and performer, Henderson uses his skills to both entertain and educate. He is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the National Communication Association, the National Association of Dramatic and Speech Arts Inc., the Jackson State University National Alumni Association and the Rho Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.

”

* Summer 2025 Conferment

Jackson State University® | 20

jackson state University® fall 2025

undergraduate commencement Order of exercises 2:00 P.M. Preselfannie W. McDaniels, Ph.D. Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Presiding Officer Prelude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shine You No More. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rune Tonsgaard Sørensen Arranged by Douglas A. Richard Joella H. Gipson String Ensemble LaTannia Ellerbe, DMA, Conductor Academic Processional Facilitator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Preselfannie W. McDaniels, Ph.D. Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Processional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pomp and Circumstance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sir Edward Elgar Arranged by James D. Ployhar Joella H. Gipson String Ensemble (Audience remains seated) Presentation of Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .JSU Joint Army and Air Force ROTC Color Guard (Audience stands)

National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Star-Spangled Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Francis Scott Key Led by Jalen Wilson, Senior Music Performance Major, Music Technology Concentration Joella H. Gipson String Ensemble (Audience remains standing) Negro National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J. Rosamond Johnson and James Weldon Johnson Led by Julia Johnson, Senior Music Education Major, Vocal Concentration Joella H. Gipson String Ensemble (Audience remains standing) Invocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dennis Williams, Ph.D. Interim Chair, Department of Educational, Multicultural, and Exceptional Studies Pastor, New Caney Creek Missionary Baptist Church Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Interim President, Jackson State University Musical Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Glory, Glory, Glory to the Newborn King . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Arranged by Moses Hogan University Chorale Harry Cecil, DMA, Director

21 | Fall 2025 Commencement

Introduction of the Commencement Speaker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lacey Mason Bachelor of Arts in Speech, ’ 25

Commencement Address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mark G. Henderson, Ph.D. Chair, Department of Speech Communication and Theatre Founder/Artistic Director, MADDRAMA Performance Troupe Presentation of Citation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D.

Recognition of Candidates for Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Justin M. Smith Major, United States Army Department Chair, Army ROTC Professor of Military Science Presentation of Candidates for Degrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Preselfannie W. McDaniels, Ph.D. Nicholas J. Hill, Ph.D., Dean Tony Latiker, Ed.D., Dean Ramzi Kafoury, Sc.D., Interim Dean Rico Chapman, Ph.D., Dean Wilbur Walters, Jr., Ph.D., Dean

College of Business College of Education and Human Development College of Health Sciences College of Liberal Arts College of Science, Engineering and Technology

Conferring of Degrees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Induction of Graduates into the Jackson State University National Alumni Association. . . . . . . . .Patrease Edwards, ’ 99, ’ 08 President, Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc.

Alumni Pledge:

I hereby solemnly pledge unbroken allegiance to my Alma Mater in appreciation for the opportunity for development afforded me at Jackson State University.

I pledge active membership in the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Incorporated, wherever I may be. Through association with my fellow alumni, I shall forever do my best to uphold the ideals and traditions of my Alma Mater.

I pledge, as a person, to exemplify high ideals by rendering positive and dignified service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world, thus, living to bring honor and respect to my Alma Mater.

Awarding of Degrees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Musical Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I’ll Trust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F. James Clark and the Shalom Church City of Peace Mass Choir University Chorale Harry Cecil, DMA, Director

Closing Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Alma Mater (Audience stands)

Jackson Fair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T.D. Pawley Arranged by F. D. Hall Led by Ryan Fields, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration Joella H. Gipson String Ensemble (Audience stands) Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear Thee I love, my dear old college home Thee I love wherever I may roam Jackson State University® | 22

Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear.

Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear Thee I love thy colors rich and bright Thee I love, the blue and the white Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear.

Refrain Hail, hail to thee, yes, hail to thee; Hail to the college of my heart, Hail, hail to thee, yes, hail to thee; Hail, to the college of my heart. *Hymn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . God Be With You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .William Tomer Led by Ryan Fields, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration Joella H. Gipson String Ensemble (Audience remains standing) God be with you till we meet again;

By His counsel guide, uphold you.

With His sheep securely fold you; God be with you till we meet again!

God be with you till we meet again; Keep love’s banner floating o’er you; Smite death’s threat’ning wave before you; God be with you till we meet again!

Refrain Till we meet, till we meet, Till we meet at Jesus’ feet, Till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again! Amen *Following the custom initiated by President Luther G. Barrett, the hymn “God Be With You” has been sung at all Jackson State University Commencements since 1911.

Benediction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dennis Williams, Ph.D. Recessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Palladio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Karl Jenkins Joella H. Gipson String Ensemble (Audience remains seated)

23 | Fall 2025 Commencement

Honors and Awards GRADUATION WITH ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Graduation with academic distinction is based on an earned grade point average of 3.20 or higher on a 4.00 scale for work completed at Jackson State University for all undergraduate degrees. Students who graduate within this grade point average range are honored with the following: Summa Cum Laude Magna Cum Laude Cum Laude

3.80 - 4.00 3.50 - 3.79 3.20 - 3.49

Graduates with academic distinction wear gold honor cords during the commencement exercises.

W.E.B. Du BoisMaria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Honors College The following W.E.B. Du Bois - Maria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Honors College members maintained a minimum 3.0 G.P.A. and successfully completed credits in Honors Courses and other co-curricular requirements.

2025 fall graduates: Kaylen Bolden Courtney Brammer Hannah Coleman Daniel Hillman Isaiah Howard Siriss McLaurin Cedrick Owens

Jackson State University® | 24

fa l l 2 0 2 5 c o m m e n c e m e n t

undergraduate candidates for degrees

††† Denotes Summa Cum Laude graduate †† Denotes Magna Cum Laude graduate † Denotes Cum Laude graduate

J Military Graduate 25 | Fall 2025 Commencement

* Summer 2025 Conferment

Nicholas J. Hill, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business

Bachelor of Business Administration ACCOUNTING †Kevin Lamarr Barber, Jr. Rodreckeanne La’Tontenisha Nycole Barnes Jocelyn Danielle Brown Myshia Yasmine Davis †††Ayodeji Emmanuel Durojaiye ††Nyriba Rakia Findley Wyvonna Evette Kettley ††Alexius Iyanna Pierce Adrian Malik Ross †Hailie Zakira Webb Jamecia Williams A’Shantae Willis †Ulysses Maurice Woodard, Jr.

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Tariq Anderson Renae Rochelle Barton ††Brittany Michelle Bridges Shemar Shavon Bryer †Emmanuel Rashad Burns †Jnessa Denay Daniels Amiya Lajoi Dixon †Zoe-Elle Sunzhe Gorden ††Jadaia Gorman Adrianna Goss †††Jada R. Hytche †Jacarya Leigh Jackson †††Devon Johnson *†William Kennedy Jones †Demetria Burns Knight Rajani Ashanti Lemon †Ansolea Liddell Ruth Waithera Mbugua Zhareiyah McCoy †Tyler Andre McMurtery J Nikki McQuarters Akira Miller †Mykera La’Faye Miller Thay Montgomery *Dazerick Larnell Patton II ††Alejandro Pinilla Shana Aliyah Radcliff Ariana Rice-Reed ††Kameron Deion Robinson †Dekendrix Larmarris Shaw Jamie Nicole Singleton Angel Keshana Smith

†Nathan DeWayne Stewart †Andrea M. Terrell ††Leah Alexandria Travis Breanna Symone Tucker ††Lola E. Walk Reginald Dale Welch Glorious Joy Winston Timothy Alexander Young

Economics †††Inioluwa Adeoluwa

ENTREPRENEURSHIP †Aaliyah De’Mya Copeland †Hailie Zakira Webb Jeremiah Charles Westmoreland

FINANCE Dawson Dubra Cameron Mabry Breanna R. Rupert

MANAGEMENT Alexandria Dior Hall Jessica Takeria Murphy

MARKETING Keyon Jamar Dixon Jadon Donell Farmer Sierah Gibbs Mydia Gsevaule Hicks *FaLaisha J. Hughes Jordan Paul Ross Tyanna Angelicia Sillas †Kiah Olivia Warner Eric White Tony Latiker, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

bachelor of science CHILDCARE AND FAMILY EDUCATION D’Aydra Vanessa Beans †††Justine R. Burks *††Sharielle Byther †Olinka Carter Danaria Moshe’ Coleman ††Lucy Vee Copeland Latedra M. Jenkins ††Rosa Donnetta Johnson

Alandria Charese Jones †Jackie Corrine McMillan *Tameya Michelle Norwood †Jaida Ke’Yetta Ratliff ††Trakeyria Fre’niek Sermon ††Sierra RaQuel Smith Demetric Smith-Terry Mekisa Stovall ††Rachel Marie Townsend †Dacia Young

Health, Physical Education and Recreation ††Jordan Donyell Brister ††Leon Roosevelt Gipson †Parker Kivett †Desmond Marquis Moore †††Christalyn Gianna Penn

Professional Interdisciplinary Studies *††Patrick Lee Allen La Toya Renee Archie Skylar Gabrielle Ballard *Rakisha Geneva Ballinger *Regena Antionette Bell †Darren Amire Bennett Benita Betts Carmen Janae Brown *†Kathy Brown Hunter Burns Dejha Asmere’ Carlisle Raeonna Ginelle Carson †Regina Marie Clark Jiya Annae Clayton Kanika Reshonda Coburn Donerio Davenport Trikelle Renise Dixon Antonio Dorsey *Edrick Galenn Franklin *Erick Gonzalez Correa *Tyquan Henderson ††Canesha Janae Henry *LaShanta T. Lyles Brianna Nicole Horton Quincy R. Ivory †Jyquan J. Jackson Bernarjay Demarious Jackson *Cameron James Elijah S. Johnson Cynthia J. Johnson Ryan Carnell Kitchens †Dimonyai Lacey †††Khadijah Lee Jasmine L. Lewis Clavorn Logan II ††Richard Mays Jackson State University® | 26

Nicholas Miguel McDaniels *††Bryson Moss ††Felicia Naylor †Raven A. Qualls †††Nathan Rembert †Ledamian Rowell Almetris Davon Smith Arionia Nicole Toney *††Marcus Damiko Watson, Jr. *Derek A. Williams Jr. Levi Wyatt *Antonio Young

Ramzi Kafoury, Sc.D. Interim Dean, College of Health Sciences

Special Education

††Lakisha Armon Amber McKenzie Artis Kadaysia Natrice Beal †Michiya LaShun Bonds Lauren A. Everett ††Farrin Gaddis †††Jalyn Aaliyah Gibson Toby Minfield Griffith †Jayda Nikole Guyton Cydnie Zaleah Howard ††Rakyla Kabrea Hughes Joya Seante Hughes †††Courtney Nicole Little ††Marion Allison Molden *Mayah Imani Moore Corlexus D’Shala Patterson Jasmine Nicole Payton ††Justus Perkins Ashley Perkins †Ahriel Pringle ††Jessica Nicole Rae ††Kennedy R. Ransom Bria Shanae Redeemer Sydney Joy Sampson Mardisa Smith Tanika Rolanda Spann Terrica Lafaye Talley Char’lestinia Amina Truss †††Heather Verdin Dominic A. Williams

†Arulan Nya Luckie

bachelor of Science in Education Elementary Education †Deandre Tyreese Crutcher †††Karrington Juamesia Davis Alesha George ††Shantesha Tyesha Hall †Katherine Camille Mills †Jocelyn Danaye Puckett *†Drameseia A. Quinn ††Lauryn Chanel Roberson

bachelor of university studies University Studies Marlene Marie Collins Darryl J. Desselle Hilda Rashell Hopkins Charles R. Kenny II †Jasmine L. Lee *Seychan Ephern Lewis Willadean Moore *Shawn M. Rainey Carlos D. Simpson Kelly M. Thompson *Greta L. Thompson *Doris Wilson

27 | Fall 2025 Commencement

bachelor of science Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Ariel Alexa-Regine Woods

HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION

††Theracia Clark Kristin A. Coleman ††Makayla Diovionne Davis ††Abby A. Echavarria Kiara D. Fuqua ††Simya Jai Gibson †Neikeya Capri Glover Anissa Diann Grant Kaede Gunn ††David B. Johnson †††Toni S. Kendrick †Shayla M. Knighten ††Xarria Arnasia Leggett Chasity La’Shuntay Lofton ††Kadedra Phinisee Annanissah M. Rhodes ††Krystal R. Ross Raegan Smith ††Toniyah L. Taylor Jessica Dawnyielle Williams Zion Amari Williams †Lacharlotte Monique Zollicoffer Rico D. Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

bachelor of arts ART Jaylen Crump Lilliann E. Dudley *†John Robert Warren Makayla Ayanna Willis

ENGLISH †††Makaya T. Davis †Mercedes C. Love Corechia Kashuna Moore

HISTORY

Public Health

Javonne Xavier Dent

†††Chavonte’ Lenard Boyd

Political Science

bachelor of social work SOCIAL WORK †Denise Marie Banks †Tacoria S. Banks †Jamirica Tanijah Berry Ja’Niah Shanae Burnett

Lonnie Bennett Tia Lena Edwards †Jennifer Renea Jobe Demarion Phipps ††Jordan Amaya Smith

Sociology ††Alauna Brooks ††Siriss Ma’quess McLaurin Elijah Alexander Price

†Tayhia Racquel Shaw ††Thomya Elainey Young

Speech †††Lacey S. Mason

bachelor of music Music †††Daniel Nehemiah Hillman *Kaytie Jeffries Dawayne M. Reed

bachelor of music education Music Education †Myfabian Onea’l Dupree Joel Tyler Murchison

bachelor of science Criminal Justice and Correctional Services †Marcus Devon Adams ††Brooke Bennamon *Takeyah A. Boston †Da’Chae Burch ††Da’Niya Burch Nakya M. Calhoun Kennedy Tyler Carey †††Tikhalia Ciera Coleman ††Jaileyah Lashay Cotton †Daquan Dantae Davis †Donna Dean-Jones ††Jada Michelle Fulton ††Jaelyn Madison Greer ††Honor C. Hamlin Jeremy Derrell Harris †††Latoya James †Niya Jhane’ Love †Za’Kiria Alexis May Keola Kalani McGregory †††Sydney Anise Montgomery †Tayler Yasmine Palmer †Dayton Andrew Paul Catrina Perkins

Jacolby Denzel Pittman Shari Latrice Strong Ashley Renee Tangle †††Joshua Freddie Thomas ††Miyeisha Sharday Thomas †Tyraneisha Toines *†††Santaya T. Townsend †Isaiah James Villanueva †††Ayauna Washington *JaNia Williams *†JonPaul Chituru Israel Wokpara

Journalism and Media Studies †Matthew K. Adams Gemal Tyree Duncan Arrianna Elizabeth Edwards ††Jamiyah Camryn Elliott †Masun N. Foster Kasey Lasean Gibbs *††Sofia Gonzalez Jeremiah Hartman Gary L. Haskin, Jr Amber R. Jones ††Andranella Raqueial Lawyer †††Latasha P. Lofton Christopher Parker ††Kenadi Lynae Perry Tymer B. Reynolds *Jency Laclaire Riley, Jr. Zeina Amr Shaaban Elizabeth Aleigha Stamps Dajion Montez Taylor Christopher Jermal Thomas

†Maliyah Nakijah Smith DeLiun Stephens Zoe Lavee Turner †Skyia Wedgeable ††D’Asia Symmone Williams ††Mucovia Williams Taylor Macayle Wimberly †Trinidee Rachel’Symone Wright Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D. Dean, College of Science, Engineering and Technology

bachelor of science

BIOLOGY ††Isaiah Jordan Alexander *Destyn Chanel Brooks †Daranikka D’Ashalia Brown Chanston Joshua Ford Sierra Renee Harris Robert Hooker, Jr †Itali Aniyah Jackson Faith Andrea Desirea Larkin Dakoyta Sanaa Lesure Tatianna Phil’yse Ramsey Terin LaDon Rash Bianca Lessie Jean Sampson *Cecilia Jada Skinner Kearstin Samone’ Slater Leila Marie Van Dyke

Psychology

Biomedical Engineering

†Chloe B. Bell Jaylon Anthony Bonner †Rylee Kathern Braden †††Courtney Nicole Brammer Tatiana V. Brewer Michael Glenn Brown Essence E’Bonet Byrd Empress Garnette Carr ††Charity Simone Crowley Ariel Magdalene Harvey †††Jahmiyah Danielle Hillard Juwanda Nicole Horton †Valerie Judith Joaquin †††Genesis Ashare Jones ††Brikeidra Shanell Lewis Leonzo Nelson Amber Lenay Nichols †Jordyn Denyse Petty *Lillian Moett Rankin *Zarria Andrea’ Rushing Anealia Grace Ryant *Antionne J. Sellers

Aalaysia Danielle Kelley Donovan Duane Robbins Kyra Genee’ Wilkerson

Chemistry †Charley Michelle Cross Kiara Rochelle Davison La’Deira Nicole Hall

Civil Engineering *Azalia Jones

Computer Engineering KeYonna Erika Bass Michael Keith Brooks, Jr. Cameron Elvin Garner Clark Deontay Treyvion Jenkins †††Cedrick Charles Owens, Jr. ††Hermariya Shanise Stephens

Jackson State University® | 28

Computer Science †Kai A. Crear †††Kaylen Benae Bolden †Quindarius Jamal Booker †Nathan A. Mobley Jaylon Elijah Nelson Xavier Emil Thompson Kaniyah White

Electrical Engineering †††Hannah Georgia Coleman James Henderson Evans, Jr. ††Isaiah Elijah Howard †Obed Osewe Oluwatobi Ighalo †Mohammed M. Jamila, Jr. †Myesha Licole Nealon ††Makda Ashenafi Tesfaye

Earth System Science Kentorria Da’nese Brown Brooklyn Dechara Carter

Industrial Technology Mekai Dillon Frye ††Kobie Rashad Jenkins Markell Javon Jones J *Jaylen T. Knox *Jeremiah Ra’Mona Sturgis Tristan Alexander Walton Kenneth Williams

Meteorology ††Harvana Tanaya Laing

29 | Fall 2025 Commencement

Board of Trustees MISSISSIPPI INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING Alfred Rankins, Jr., Ph.D., Commissioner of Higher Education

BOARD MEMBERS Gee Ogletree, President Steven Cunningham, M.D., Vice President Amy Arrington Donald Clark, Jr. Ormella Cummings, Ph.D. Jerry L. Griffith James H. ( Jimmy) Heidelberg Teresa Hubbard Bruce Martin Hal Parker Gregory Rader Charlie Stephenson

Jackson State University® | 30

Jackson State University Executive Cabinet and Deans Executive cabinet Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D., Interim President Preselfannie McDaniels, Ph.D., Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Ashley Robinson, Vice President and Director of Athletics Howard Brown, Jr., Vice President for Business and Finance, Chief Financial Officer Vance Siggers, Ph.D., Executive Director of Campus Operations Van Gillespie, J.D., Chief of Staff Alla Jeanae Frank, Special Assistant to the President and Chief Transformation Officer Onetta S. Whitley, J.D., General Counsel Deborah F. Dent, Ph.D., Chief Information Officer of Information Technology Sloan D. Cargill, Vice President for Institutional Advancement & External Affairs Almesha L. Campbell, Ph.D., Vice President of Research and Economic Development Jonas Owen Vanderbilt, Jr., Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs & Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management Tangelia Kelly, Ph.D., Chief Communications Officer and Executive Director of University Communications

deans Nicholas J. Hill, Ph.D., College of Business Tony Latiker, Ed.D., College of Education and Human Development Ramzi Kafoury, Sc.D., (Interim), College of Health Sciences Rico Chapman, Ph.D., College of Liberal Arts Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D., College of Science, Engineering and Technology Carlos Wilson, Ph.D., (Interim), Graduate Studies Locord D. Wilson, Ph.D., Libraries

31 | Fall 2025 Commencement

Graduate/Undergraduate Commencement Exercises COMMENCEMENT MACE BEAREr Dr. Jennifer Young Wallace

president’s standard BEAREr Dr. Patrice Jenkins

Administration Standard Bearer Dr. La’Tonia Harper

college standard bearers College of Business Mahmoud Nabulsi Dr. Hyunseob Kim College of Education and Human Development Dr. Doreen Myrie Dr. Joon Lee College of Health Sciences Dr. Brian Anderson Dr. Azad Bhuiyan College of Liberal Arts Yolanda Williams Dr. Ramon Jackson College of Science, Engineering and Technology Dr. Jacqueline Jackson Dr. Genice V. Knight Division of Graduate Studies Dr. Warren Brown

chief/assistant Marshals Chief Marshal Dr. Dion Porter Assistant Marshals Dr. Whitney Perkins Dr. Kanesha Bennett Dr. Edith Davidson Mark Geil

Undergraduate and graduate Student/faculty Marshals College of Business Olayanju Adeoluwa Inioluwa Adeoluwa Jordan Jones Kamisha Thames Dr. Marcus Ambe Dr. Nizar Alslharari College of Education and Human Development Christalyn Penn Justine Burks Alexis Williams Tracy Mayes

Dr. Brieah Hudson Dr. Karen Linstrum College of Health Sciences Chavonte’ Boyd Toni S. Kendrick Pernetta Brown Kambrea Shaw Dr. Sherita Williams-Tompkins Dr. Yalanda Barner College of Liberal Arts Courtney Brammer Makaya Davis Yolanda Howard Gloria T. Hirse Dr. Vineeth Vijayan Dr. Kelly Ellis College of Science, Engineering and Technology Isaiah Alexander Hannah Coleman Anika Mahzabin Corwin Stanford Dr. Teresa Demeritte Dr. Tayla Thomas

Readers

Lawanda Dickens Dr. Phyllis Lewis-Hale Dr. Candice Love-Jackson Dr. Ebony Lumumba

Office of the Registrar and Records Lekesha Tubbs Doriecia Washington Ella Ainsworth Christie Mickel Stephanie Stevens Shadae Williams

American Sign Language Interpreters Tiffany Leach Vicki Lewis Loretta Sutton

Volunteer Coordinator Dr. La’Tonia Fulton-Harper

COMMENCEMENT PROGRAM designer Yolanda T. Brown

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fall 2025 Commencement committee Ms. Tershuna Bass Dr. Lisa Beckley-Roberts Ms. Ayanna Evans Dr. La’Tonia Fulton-Harper Ms. Kamesha Hill Mr. Anthony Howard Mr. Sedric Hudson Dr. Ramon Jackson Mr. DeMarcus Leflore Dr. Candice Love-Jackson Dr. Preselfannie McDaniels, Ex-Officio Mr.Victor Mills Dr. Emily Moses Dr. Brandi Newkirk-Turner, Chair Ms. Eboni Phillips Ms. Becky Pierson Dr. Dion Porter, Co-Chair Dr. Sheila Porterfield Dr. Arron Richardson Dr. Michael Robinson Ms. Kentrice Rush Ms. Janet Samuel Mr. Don Spann Chief Eric Stanton Dr. Jerome Tinker Ms. Lekesha Tubbs Ms. Deborah Washington Ms. Sheree White Dr. Carlos Wilson Ms. Carol Woodson

33 | Fall 2025 Commencement

notations to guests PHOTOGRAPHS Only authorized working press and University photographers are permitted on the floor to take pictures during the commencement ceremony. A professional photographer will take pictures of each graduate.

These pictures will be available for order and purchase. Family and friends of the graduates may take photographs after the ceremony.

special needs Ushers for individuals with disabilities Ushers for attendees with special needs will be available to assist individuals with requests throughout the ceremony.

Accessible seating Accessible seating is reserved for guests who require special seating due to age, illness or physical impairment. The accessible seating is marked with signage. Given the limited number of accessible seats that are available, please note that only one family member may accompany his or her person with disabilities. The rest of the family must sit in the stands.

American Sign Language American Sign Language interpretation of the ceremony will be provided.

first aid First Aid services will be available through the Jackson State University Health Center, and American Medical Response will be available for assistance during the commencement ceremony.

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