Spring 2025 Commencement Book

SPRING 2025

Commencement of Jackson State University

®

Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. President

spring 2025 commencement contents Notations to Guests | 3 Commencement Etiquette | 4 Congratulatory Messages | 5 - 9 Graduate Commencement Order of Exercise | 10 - 12 Honorary Degree Recipient | 13 Golden Class of 1975 | 14 - 15 Graduate Candidates for Degrees | 18 - 22 Undergraduate Commencement Order of Exercise | 24 - 26 Honors and Awards | 28 Du Bois-Harvey Honors College Graduates | 29 Undergraduate Candidates for Degrees | 30 - 35 Board of Trustees, Mississippi State Institutions of Higher Learning | 36 Jackson State University Executive Cabinet and Deans | 37 Student Leadership | 41 Graduate and Undergraduate Commencement Participants | 42 Commencement Committee | 43

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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notations to guests WELCOME Welcome to the Jackson State University Spring 2025 Commencement Exercises. Commencement is an important event in the life of the University, its students, faculty and staff. It is a joyous yet solemn event that represents the culmination of the graduates’ years of study. Thank you for joining us and for being a part of the celebration. Again, we welcome you!

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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COMMENCEMENT ETIQUETTE OUT OF RESPECT FOR OTHER FAMILIES PRESENT, PLEASE:

silence all devices hold all applause until prompted no air horns or noisemakers please take all pictures with your graduate after the ceremony please avoid walking during the ceremony & please remain seated until the end of the ceremony masks are optional

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spring 2025 commencement

congratulatory

messages

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Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi 39217

Office Of The President

(601) 979-2323 Fax: (601) 979-2948

Dear Jackson State University Class of Spring 2025, On behalf of the Jackson State University family, I extend my heartfelt congratulations. This is a defining moment in your journey that reflects your discipline, sacrifice and commitment. You now stand among the proud graduates who have added their stories to the legacy of this institution.

Commencement is not simply the end of your academic pursuit. It is a celebration of the challenges you faced and the growth you achieved. It speaks to your consistency in the classroom, leadership across campus and belief in what you could accomplish.

You have earned your place at one of the nation’s top Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

As Mississippi’s only urban research university, Jackson State offers more than instruction. It offers opportunities. You have embarked on this journey with purpose and shown what it means to set THEE Standard through scholarship, service and strength of character.

Your time at JSU was shaped by more than assignments or exams. It was built through relationships, acts of service and the moments that helped clarify who you are and who you are meant to be. Whether in the lab, on the field, in rehearsals or in the community, your presence made a difference.

Thank you to the families, mentors and friends who stood beside our graduates. Your care, your encouragement and the many sacrifices you made helped bring this moment to life. This degree belongs not only to them but also to the circle that helped carry them forward.

Graduates, you now join a global community of Jackson State alumni shaping industries, elevating standards and lifting others along the way. You will add to that legacy not just through your title or profession but through the impact of your work and the principles that guide it.

Let this moment remind you that you are not just ready – you are JSU Ready. You’ve met the challenge, and no matter where you roam, you are always welcome back to home at THEE. Congratulations, graduates. We are proud of you.

In Tiger Service,

Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. President, Jackson State University

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Office of the Mayor

Chokwe A. Lumumba, Mayor

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

Jackson State University 1400 John R. Lynch Street Jackson, Mississippi 39217 May 2, 2025 Greetings Graduates: As Mayor of the City of Jackson, it is my sincere privilege to congratulate the Jackson State University graduating class of 2025. Today, you embark on a fantastic journey directed by your MAYOR chokwe antar determination, persistence and hard work, to place yourlumumba mark on the world. The entire city joins letter me in wishing you the very best in your endeavors toward a bright, intentional and prosperous future.

Jackson State University carries a tremendous legacy of academic leadership, innovation, research, knowledge and creativity. It is a pillar of the Jackson community that is actively engaged with community partners to create mutually beneficial relationships connecting its students, faculty and staff to the Jackson Metropolitan area. As a city, we are proud to be home to such a profound historical institution dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders.

Graduates, you will now join a distinguished group of alumni who have entered the world and a global workforce with purpose. It is my honor to congratulate you on this milestone.

Congratulations on a job well done and best wishes on your journey ahead!

One City, One Aim, One Destiny!

Sincerely,

Chokwe A. Lumumba, Mayor City of Jackson

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J a c k s o n S t at e N at i o n a l A lu m n i A s s o c i at i o n , I n c .

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 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 BOARD MEMBERS Far West Region Mr. Michael Easter Midwest Region Mrs. Angela Waller Dr. Jacquelyn Thomas-Miller Mississippi Region Mrs. Tammy Terrell-Brooks Mr. Joshua Winsley Northeast Region Ms. Kimalesha Brown Dr. John Sampson Jr. Southeast Region Mr. Kenneth Archer Ms. Laura Lewis Southwest Region Mr. Raymond Woodfork 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

May 2, 2025 Congratulations, spring 2025 Graduates!

On behalf of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc. (JSUNAA), it is my distinct pleasure to congratulate you on your graduation and welcome you to the ranks of our alumni family! As you step into this exciting new chapter of your life, your connection with Jackson State University enters a new phase—one that will extend well beyond your time on campus and last a lifetime. The education, friendships, and experiences you’ve gained are now the foundation of your ongoing bond with JSU. As you embark on this next journey, I encourage you to actively engage with the JSUNAA, which, in partnership with the Department of Alumni and Constituency Relations, offers a variety of events and programs at local, regional, and national levels. Your involvement is crucial, and I invite you to consider volunteering with the Association to help enhance the experience for fellow young alumni like yourself. By contributing your time and talents, you’ll have a direct impact on shaping the future of our alumni community while forging valuable connections that will support you as you navigate life afterJSuNAA graduation. PRESIDENT

letter

Your membership with JSUNAA is already active, as we’ve covered your dues for the upcoming fiscal year (ending June 30, 2026). I encourage you to proudly carry your membership card and wear your alumni lapel pin wherever you go. Let it serve as a symbol of your connection to a proud and powerful network of JSU graduates. Your membership is not just a card—it's your gateway to a wealth of opportunities, support, and camaraderie that will follow you wherever life may take you.

I also invite you to visit our website regularly at www.jsunaa.org to stay updated on alumni events, initiatives, and news. As we continue to grow, your input is invaluable, so please feel free to share your ideas for events or ways to improve communication. Your thoughts and feedback are essential as we work together to elevate our alumni organization and enhance the experience for all members.

As you take your next steps, I look forward to seeing you at future alumni events and watching as you carry the spirit of Jackson State University forward with pride.

With Tiger Pride,

Patrease Edwards JSUNAA President president@jsunaa.org 9 | Spring 2025 Commencement

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graduate commencement Order of exercises 9:00 A.M. Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Presiding Officer Prelude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “Triumphal March” from Aida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Giuseppe Verdi Arranged by Douglas A. Richard University Wind Ensemble Roderick Little, Ph.D., Conductor Academic Processional Facilitator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Processional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fanfare and Processional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sir Edward Elgar Arranged by James D. Ployhar University Wind Ensemble (Audience remains seated) Presentation of Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JSU Army ROTC Color Guard (Audience stands)

National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Star-Spangled Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Francis Scott Key Arranged by William W. Davis Led by Kaytie Jeffries, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration University Wind Ensemble (Audience remains standing) Negro National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J. Rosamond Johnson and James Weldon Johnson Led by Julia Johnson, Junior Music Education Major, Vocal Concentration University Wind Ensemble (Audience remains standing) Invocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rev. Barron Banks, M.Div. Pastor, Presbyterian Church (USA) Hattiesburg, Mississippi Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. 13th President, Jackson State University Musical Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Good News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arranged by Robert T. Gibson University Choir Harry Cecil, DMA, Director of Choral Activities Jackson State University® | 10

Presentation of Honorary Degree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. Recognition of the Golden Diploma Recipients

Presentation of Candidates for Degrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Preselfannie McDaniels, Ph.D., Dean Fidelis Ikem, Ph.D., Dean Tony Latiker, Ed.D., Dean Ramzi Kafoury, MPH, 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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcus L. Thompson, 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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. Closing Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. Alma Mater (Audience stands)

Jackson Fair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T.D. Pawley Arranged by F. D. Hall Led by Kaytie Jeffries, 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.

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.

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*Hymn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . God Be With You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .William Tomer Led by Kaytie Jeffries, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration University Wind Ensemble (Audience stands) 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rev. Barron Banks, M.Div. Recessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fanfare and Recessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sir Edward Elgar Arranged by James D. Ployer University Wind Ensemble Roderick Little, Ph.D., Conductor (Audience remains seated)

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spring 2025 Honorary Degree Recipient Jackson State University proudly honors Dr. John Perkins with an honorary degree in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to civil rights, faith-based community development and social justice.

Born in 1930 to sharecroppers in New Hebron, Mississippi, Dr. Perkins overcame poverty, the early loss of his mother and the trauma of witnessing racial violence. His resilience and faith shaped a lifetime of service dedicated to advancing peace, justice and equality.

A renowned author, speaker and visionary leader, Dr. Perkins founded several influential organizations including Voice of Calvary Ministries, the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA) and the John and Vera Mae Perkins Foundation. His work has transformed communities across the U.S. and inspired global movements for reconciliation.

Dr. John Perkins Renowned Author, Speaker and Visionary Leader

In 2020, the Perkins Foundation and Pine Lake Church partnered to establish the John and Vera Perkins Endowed Scholarship at Jackson State University with an initial $200,000 gift–an endowment that has since grown to $500,000, supporting the education of future leaders.

Dr. Perkins’ legacy is reflected in numerous honorary degrees and in institutions that have named centers, fellowships and housing in his honor including Wheaton College, Northern Seminary and Calvin College. Through his writings, including best-selling books Let Justice Roll Down and One Blood, he’s also become a guiding voice in Christian community development.

Jackson State University is honored to recognize Dr. John Perkins, whose life’s work embodies our core values of justice, service and transformative leadership.

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jac k s o n s tat e u n i v e r s i t y ®

we honor thee golden class 5 0 t h ye ar r eun ion - cl as s of 1 9 75

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Della Rose Powell Archie Helen J. Bailey Mattie S. Bailey Amy Burks Berry James Edward Bethley, Jr. Rubye Moore-Booker Zelma Wilson Bradley Cynthia Ann Robinson Brumfield Tommy Glen Brumfield Bernice Buckner Dr. Sandra Cannon Scott Earlcine Brooks Carter Carolyn James Rosalyn Childs Sylvester Brel Clark Hazel Price Coleman Retired Brigadier General Robert Crear Yvonne Vaughn Cunning Calvin Curry Cunning Daisy Trammell Dale Emerson Davis Alice Dillon Snow Lucy Willis Ellis Robert E. Evans Vera Lynn Evans Gwin Ford Edna Galloway-Foster Charles Edward Gates James Gatlin Dr. LaVerne Gentry Dr. Heard E. Graves Ozzie L Dillon Paul Douglas Gipson Gloria Graham-Love Jane Annette Green Barbara White Hadnott Mattie W. Hambrick Deborah Hardy Jimmie Harmon Simmer Harry

Eileen Hemphill Richardson Dr. Carolyn M. Higgins James Holden Jr Judy Carroll Smith Jackson Gloria J. Jones Dianne Wilson Jones Darlene Lomax Dennis Shirley Mack Miller Charlean Mims Donnie Moncure Rubye Moore-Booker Willie Lavonne Newell-Evans Linda F. Olds Joyce Dean O’Quinn Linda Faye Osborne Velma Owens Lee Jeanette Allen Paige *Walter Jerry Payton (Sweetness) John Louis Phillips Rodney A. Phillips Rose Pickett-Williams Doris Streater Powell Rosena Mayberry Profice Deborah Moore Rash Earnestine Ratliff Rechelle Raxton-Siggers Ceagus S. Reed Lily Hughey Reed Parthfene Craig Reynolds Betty Jewel Turner Ross Richard Lee Russell Barbara A. Smith Watson William Fredrick Stallworth Dorothy Strong Gloria J. Tatum Clarence Taylor Francine Smith Thomas Johnnie Thompson Johnson Apprilla L. Van Buren Terry McKnight-Varnado

T. J. Walker Mary J. Washington Joyce Jones Washington Gwendolyn Clark-Hutchins Betty Moses Watson Pamela Webb Hervey Loretta Ward Rapheal Leonard Williams Bettye Joyce Williams Russell Williams Jimmie L. Williams Albertine Williamson-Nash Bobbie J. Wilson Dr. Locordkenic Retroze Douglas Wilson Thomas Wilson Carolyn Allean Mack Woods Peggy Ann Gordon Young

*deceased

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The Golden Class of 1975 honors the memory of classmate and friend

WALTER PAYTON

the legendary Pro Football Hall of Famer and the source of immense pride for Jackson State University and the nation.

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spring 2025 commencement

graduate candidates for degrees

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Fidelis Ikem, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business

Doctor of Philosophy

Business Administration Rotimi Ifaranmaye, Richmond, TX

Dissertation: Corporate Governance, Evolving Voluntary Corporate Disclosures, and Financial Distress: An Empirical Analysis of Public Companies in the U.S. Advisor: Dr. Nizar Alsharari

Terrance Segars, Hartsville, SC

Dissertation: Readability and Audit Outcomes: Evidence from Municipal Financial Statement Footnote Disclosures Advisor: Dr. Nizar Alsharari Tony Latiker, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

Doctor of Philosophy

Educational Administration Tony L. Blackmon Jr., Prentiss, MS

Dissertation: Black Male Students’ Perceptions of Greek Organizations at a Selected Historically Black College and University Advisor: Dr. Carrine Bishop

Shaquibia J. Carter, Greenville, MS

Dissertation: Mentorship and Novice Teacher Retention in Rural Areas in Central Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Benjamin Ngwudike

Charlotte Victoria Hawkins, Indianola, MS Dissertation: Third Grade Teachers’ Self-Efficacy and Perceptions of Professional Development in the Implementation of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports in a Mississippi Delta School District Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Young Wallace

Tiffany Jones Jefferson, Terry, MS

Dissertation: A Phenomenological Perspective of Mississippi Community Colleges Performing Arts Instructors and CTE Curriculum Coordinators’ Use of an Art Collective Network to Prepare Students for Career Opportunities Within the Entertainment Industry Advisor: Dr. Albert Carter

Krystal Breanna Rucker, Tchula, MS

Dissertation: The Self-Efficacy of Teachers Working with Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Young Wallace

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Reena Singh, Madison, MS

Dissertation: Exploring the Impact of COVID-19 on Faculty Work-Life Balance: A Phenomenological Study Advisor: Dr. Jeton McClinton

Curtis Smith, Natchez, MS

Dissertation: Parents and Teachers’ Perceptions of Parental Involvement in Middle Schools in Southwest Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Jennifer Young Wallace

Comelia L. Walker, Canton, MS

Dissertation: Barriers of Online Skill Builders on Mathematics Achievement from the Perspectives of Rural and Urban K-12 District Administrators Advisor: Dr. Chandar Lewis

Sonya D. Webster, Ridgeland, MS

Dissertation: African American College Students’ Perceptions of Engagement in Campus Life Activities at Selected Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the South Advisor: Dr. Carrine Bishop

Urban Higher Education

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

Doctor of public health PUBLIC HEALTH Adrianne Clark, Jackson, MS

Dissertation: Correlations in Obesity and Stress Measures in African Americans in the Jackson Heart Study with CVD and Stroke Prevalence Advisor: Dr. Clifton Addison

Willie A. Criss, Greenwood, MS

Dissertation: Prevalence and Mortality Rates of Fatalities in Distracted Crashes in Mississippi, 2012-2019 Advisor: Dr. Clifton Addison

Elizabeth Jones, Ridgeland, MS

Dissertation: The Relationship Between Live Births & Cardiovascular Disease Among African American Women in the Jackson Heart Study Advisor: Dr. Clifton Addison

Jarrod Duane Benjamin, Denham Springs, LA

Shameka S. Lampkin, Jackson, MS

Latisha Rayford Bullard, Pine Bluff, AR

Salita Esteves McGowan, Madison, MS

Dissertation: The Measurement of Student Engagement Factors Among First-Year Student Success Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown Dissertation: Perceptions of Work-Life Conflict on Career Advancement for Mid-Level Women Leaders in Higher Education Advisor: Dr. John Kuykendall

Essence Leenié Davis, Memphis, TN

Dissertation: Black Women Faculty Experiences with Tenure and Promotion Through the Lens of Black Feminist Epistemology Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

Cara R. Guilbeau, Baton Rouge, LA

Dissertation: A Quantitative Study on Burnout Among Student Affairs Professionals Through the Lens of Maslach’s Theory of Burnout Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

Alonda Nicole Thomas, Miami, FL

Dissertation: Exploring Organizational Identity Among Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Response to National Rankings Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

Patricia Walker-Swinton, Alexander, AR

Dissertation: From Resistance to Readiness: A Quantitative Analysis of Factors Influencing Faculty Adoption of Learning Management Systems at Select Institutions Advisor: Dr. John Kuykendall

Dissertation: Impact of the Child and Family Improvement and Innovation Act on Psychotropic Medication Utilization Among Foster Youth in Hinds County, Mississippi: A Pilot Study Advisor: Dr. Yalanda M. Barner Dissertation: The Impact of Multi-Systems Utilization on the Health Outcomes of Mississippi Veterans Experiencing Stroke: Policy Implications Advisor: Dr. Yalanda M. Barner Rico Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

Doctor of Philosophy Clinical Psychology Symone M. Lawson, Mebane, NC

Dissertation: A Multifaceted Approach to Examining Academic Stress, Quality of Life, Coping Styles, and Advisor Support Among Emerging Adult College Students Advisor: Dr. Pamela Banks

Public Administration Mohammed N. Alorg, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Dissertation: E-Government Assessment and its Impacts on Socioeconomic Development in Saudi Arabia Advisor: Dr. Gloria Billingsley

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

Doctor of Philosophy Chemistry Taylor A. Dorlus, Chicago, IL

Dissertation: In Silico Analysis of Donor-Acceptor Based π-Conjugated Compounds for Organic Solar Material: A DFT/TD-DFT Study Advisor: Dr. Jerzy Leszczynski

Yifang Qi, China

Dissertation: Optimization of Optoelectronic Devices by Interface Modification Advisor: Dr. Qilin Dai

Environmental Science Angela Quatasha Thompson, Red Lick, MS Dissertation: Nutrient and Water Budget Management Using Novel Sensor Technology in Mississippi Advisors: Dr. Barbara Graham Dr. Edmund Buckner

Urban and Regional Planning Ni’cholas Derrell Johnson, Freemanville, AL Dissertation: Engaging Marginalized Residents in the Planning, Policy, and Local Decision-Making Processes: HBCU Graduates’ Perspectives Advisor: Dr. Berneece Herbert

Jessica Smith Thomas, Byram, MS Kenyata B. Welch, Antioch, TN Psychometry Wendolyn Tiara Barnes, Port Gibson, MS Keiara LaTisha Bennett, Pearl, MS Ashley Binion, Panola, AL Trineisha Bridgewater, Jackson, MS Jarvis Jonte Brown, Canton, MS Jessica Johnice Clinton, Ruston, LA LaSonja DeShaye Coleman, Rosedale, MS Lakecia R. Fields, Brandon, MS Arnesha Harris, Tchula, MS Elizabeth Ann Hopkins, Laurel, MS Lajuna Ivory, Greenwood, MS Schemeka L. Jenkins-Turner, Ruth, MS Roshunna Nicole Lampton, Tylertown, MS Raven K. Lowe, Jackson, MS Twynette Magee, Gulfport, MS Raven A. Maxer, Jackson MS Tara L. McKenzie, Raymond, MS Britny Munn, Lauderdale, MS Stacey Norris, Walnut Grove, MS Delona Parsons, Port Gibson, MS Amber Nicole Robinson, Bolton, MS Kristina Smith, Shreveport, LA Lakia Shantell Smith, Greenwood, MS Ariel Alexus Spencer, Madison, MS Courtney Spencer, Tupelo, MS Haley Simone Williams, Pontiac, MI Jasmine Williamson, Camden, MS School Counseling

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

specialist in education Educational Administration and Supervision Lekesha Ann Byrd, Brookhaven, MS Ulonda Claiborne, Vicksburg, MS Alexandria Nicole Davis, Greenwood, MS Ollie T. Davis, Yazoo County, MS Columesia D. Graham, Hattiesburg, MS Chanda Nichelle Grant, Cleveland, MS Debra L. Green, Clinton, MS Zidkejah Hall, Jackson, MS Brittney Holmes, Cleveland, MS Datraonna Tranece Horton, Jackson, MS Brittany Shenea Latham, Mound Bayou, MS Johnel LaJuan McIntosh, Detroit, MI Pamela Adriene Malone, Brookhaven, MS

Melissa Harrison Barksdale, Jackson, MS Kimberly Monique Buckhalter, Brooksville, MS Shonika Monsha Cooper, Jackson, MS Shevonda Gorden, Jackson, MS Keonica Kashae Jones, Greenwood, MS Chiara Cene’ Perry, Hollandale, MS Kiamber N’Keidra Toy, Centreville, MS Raven Williams, Woodville, MS Fidelis M. Ikem, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business

master of business administration

Marlena Lewis, Madison, MS La’Curtis Jamon Powell, Jackson, MS Zakiya Mahoney, Oakland, CA

master of professional Accountancy Professional Accountancy Lakeithia Orliza Foggy, Jackson, MS Myesha Brianna Stewart, Crystal Springs, MS Tony Latiker, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

master of arts in teaching TEACHING Adrien Benard Anderson, Shreveport, LA Justicc Andrea NaShae Brown, Greenwood, MS Sheketric Patrice Burnside, Clarksdale, MS Alexis N. Cain, Canton, MS Nicole Chambers, Forest, MS Adrionna Nakia Childress, Jackson, MS Kimberlee Course, Jackson, MS Courtney Leanne Crump, Morton, MS Jarmyra Maleake Davis, Prentiss, MS Shavon Davis, Jackson, MS Christopher Deloach, Columbus, MS Haley Carlene Finkley, Vicksburg, MS Devetrice S. Foster-Green, Beulah, MS Jasmine Gross, Madison, MS Areanna Harper, Jackson, MS Courtney La’ Shay Harris, Bentonia, MS Karen Jamison, Greenville, MS Jayda Grace Martin, Walnut Grove, MS Avious T. Moses, Jackson, MS Catoria Shamika Samone Mozee, Jackson, MS Shamonica Roby, Jackson, MS Katrina Smith, Olive Branch, MS Demonparis Jamal Williams, Pickens, MS MiAerial LaRose Willis, Jackson, MS

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Te’Raye Harrien, Prentiss, MS Aaleah Michelle Harris, Vicksburg, MS Morgan Hightower, Sardis, MS Gabrielle Holliday, Richmond, VA Jackson State University® | 20

master of Science Clinical Mental Health Counseling Selina A. Drummond, Brooklyn, NY Jaleesa Roxanne McGee, Durant, MS Audrick Jamal Robinson, Cleveland, MS Jaren D. Robinson, Terry, MS Adriana K. Ware, Canton, MS LaKita Washington, Jackson, MS Ciarria Westmoreland, Jackson, MS Brittany Woods, Columbus, MS Educational Administration and Supervision Rhodaji Unyonna Davis, Utica, MS Marsella W. Hatfield, Jackson, MS Rehabilitation Counseling Kamryn Benét Dismuke, Jackson, MS Sport Science Kendrick Ja’Mario Catchings, Jackson, MS Kevin Bryant Fowler, Clinton, MS Isabel Gusman, Los Angeles, CA Melody J. Harvey, Brandon, MS Bryon Anthony Johnson, Clinton, MS Bailey Lailani Jones, Little Rock, AR Cameron Jamaal Lewis, Bloomington, IL Tangela Watson, Fayette, MS

master of Science in Education Early Childhood Education Demedria L. Brumfield, Tylertown, MS Christy Le’Ann Davis, Jackson, MS Ja’Keria Dent, Greenwood, MS Verna Latrice Edmond, Canton, MS Kashunna Q. Fowler, Coahoma, MS Porchia L. Gordon, Greensburg, LA Morgan Grier, Atlanta, GA Conchetta Harris, Hazlehurst, MS Robyn Mack, Plano, TX Adriann D. Pierce, Canton, MS Ashley Reese, Bassfield, MS Arielle Elise Robinson, Jackson, MS 21 | Spring 2025 Commencement

Health, Physical Education and Recreation Shantavia N. Bailey, Webb, MS Alvin Eric Brumfield II, Hattiesburg, MS Amarius Jenkins, Hattiesburg, MS Louis Carl White, Hattiesburg, MS Reading Margaret M. Ward, Port Gibson, MS School Counseling Jasma Jobe, Farmhaven, MS Charlease L. Jordan, Greenville, MS Ramzi Kafoury, MPH, Sc.D. Interim Dean, College of Health Sciences

master of PUBLIC HEALTH Public Health Tyler Desmond Duncan, Newberry, SC Ihunanya Meejay Kanu, Ndi Akaeme Arondizuogu, Nigeria Aditya Patel, Bhavnagar, India Ryan Standfield, Birmingham, AL Kheri Malik Strong, Jackson, MS Negasi Weldu Tsegay, Macomb, MI

master of science Communicative Disorders Rebecca Leigh Ashley, Sontag, MS Anyah Jade Barnes, Brandon, MS Lindsey Ferguson Bounds, Brandon, MS Amaya Kenyatta Ervin, Crystal Springs, MS Jessica Rose Harthcock, Brandon, MS Sarah Grace Byrd Hinkle, St. Augustine, FL Janna Noelle Hodges, Eupora, MS Myka Scott, Vicksburg, MS

master of Social Work Social Work Mayo S. Alexander, Jackson, MS Ra-Neesha Allen, Los Angeles, CA Asya Araya Anderson, Jackson, MS Nakia A. Atkinson, Jackson, MS Emily Marie Beall, Starkville, MS

Latasha Lashae Gayden Bradley, Pearl, MS Tina Brand, Rock Island, IL Mishaelynn Braswell, Dallas, TX Damoise Lashae Brown, Vicksburg, MS Jameshia J. Brown, Canton, MS Sharmaine Monique Brown, Newark, NJ Sherica Ke’Channa Campbell, Kosciusko, MS Laiana Shalia Cork, Weir, MS Laparis Covington, Jackson, MS Kim’eika Crosby, Tchula, MS Jewell Janell Crossley, Gautier, MS Dwayln Deuntrez Culberson, Philadelphia, MS Jasmine S. Curtis, Jackson, MS Jasmine Julianna DeLoach, Hattiesburg, MS Octavia Dixon-Carter, Jackson, MS DeOnna Eddington, Southaven, MS Patrice Joelle Ellis, Jackson, MS Alethia C. Frazier, Byram, MS Tarsha L. Gamblin, Jackson, MS Talicia Tanae Glasper, Greenville, MS Shirley Goods, Brookhaven, MS I’tedrianna Goston, Cleveland, MS Taylor Ellana Graham, Picayune, MS Eryka JaDon Greene, Clinton, MS Jacquelin Hall, New Site, MS Darria M. Harrington, Jackson, MS Dashyla Daeshanae Harris, Hattiesburg, MS Marcus Bernard Henderson, II, Clinton, MS Destiani Henshaw, Gulfport, MS Jerrica Jaylyn Hill, Vicksburg, MS Lindsey Hoard, Winnsboro, LA Kennedy Nicole De’Jhe Hobson, Terry, MS Shaquana Q. Hudson, Clarksdale, MS Akia Jackson, Byram, MS Camille Margaret Jackson, Hyattsville, MD Cheryl Jones, Long Beach, MS Gabriel Caprice Kelly, Starkville, MS Tamiyah D. Lawson, Canton, MS Benard Luckett, Sr., Yazoo City, MS Tykevia LaShay Lyles, Sandhill, MS Malon Cabrina McGee, New Orleans, LA Colless Nash, Canton, MS Chakyra Desiree Oliver, Burlington, NC Sydney Lavonne Pearson, Freeport, IL Angelica Robinson, Itta Bena, MS LeDarius Shavers, Rosedale, MS Auntra Singleton, Moss Point, MS Raven Alexia Strong, Raleigh, MS Shantal L. Stratton, Crystal Springs, MS Joshua Or`mon Sturgis, Terry, MS Barbara J. Taylor, Pearl, MS Ayanna Alexis Taylor, Gulfport, MS Ariel Shanice Taylor, Jackson, MS

Kadjehi Thompson, Tchula, MS Jakori Tinsley, Austin, TX Janee’ Townsend, Little Rock, AR Kenisha Antionette Travis, Flowood, MS Ranesha Tucker, Atlanta, GA Mikiya Lenae Tutor, Gautier, MS Stephanie Marie Vasquez, Hollister, CA Chloe Wallace, Morton, MS Charlonda Angi Rae Washington, Raleigh, NC Glendolin Watson, Port Gibson, MS Kimmesha Pashea Watson, Milwaukee, WI Skyla Watson, Tutwiler, MS Alex Weeks, Pontotoc, MS Tre’Mya White, Richland, MS Katelynn A. Wiggins, Long Beach, MS Claudio Williams, Lumberton, MS Patrina Williams, Hazlehurst, MS Rico D. Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

master of arts

Sociology Cameron Smith, Jackson, MS

master of public Policy and Administration Public Policy and Administration Courtney Shunte Garner, Jackson, MS Tyrece Rondell Sayles, Jackson, MS Zakiya Annette Summers, Jackson, MS Joshua Tafeni, Tsolo, South Africa Briana Natasha Thompson, Jackson, MS

master of Science

Tiara Dontrice James, New Orleans, LA Rebecca Marie Jamieson, Newcastle, United Kingdom Joshaunda Tamia Wade, Jackson, MS

master of arts

Thesis: Emptying Her Master’s Pockets: The WPA Narratives and a New Archival Practice Advisor: Dr. Albert Dorsey, Jr.

Elijah House, Killeen, TX

Thesis: Media Responses to African American Civil Disobedience During the 1968 Olympics and Career Implications Advisor: Dr. Lomarsh Roopnarine

Political Science Kennadie Larryn Boykin, St. Louis, MO Marcus Lee Bryant, Philadelphia, PA Shenica Kishawna Dorsey, Florence, SC Danielle Aïcha Greminger, Zurich Ronald Darnell Jones, Jr., Jackson, MS Helayna Loggins, Little Rock, AR Jamaurea Smith, Jackson, MS Sherita Monai Tillman, Lexington, MS Alexandria A. Williams, North Little Rock, AR

Advisor: Dr. Khalid Abed

Quandarius L. Scrivens, Belzoni, MS Hazardous Materials Management Hannah Hulitt, Jackson, MS Audria Jenae Jackson, Jackson, MS Dave B. McDavid, Jackson, MS Mathematics Valencia Marvette St. Clair, Ridgeland, MS Thesis: Two Interesting Mathematical Methods for Cylindrical Shaped Solid Tumor in Cancer Therapy Modeling: The Pennes Bioheat Equations and the Gompertz Growth Models Advisor: Dr. Tor A. Kwembe

Leatrice Daniels, Prentiss, MS Deja Alexis Richardson, Columbus, MS Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D. Dean, College of Science, Engineering and Technology

Jasmine L. Holmes, Houston, TX

Thesis: Efficient Power Supply Redesign for Prolonged Operation in the Bivalve Gape Measurement System Lander

Journalism and Media Studies

Criminology and Justice Services

History

Johnny Lee Chapman, Greenwood, MS

Urban and Regional Planning Reginald S. Davis, Canton, MS Monica Y. Lackey-Harris, Tunica, MS

master of Science COMPUTER SCIENCE

Emmanuel Osahenogae Edorodion, Jackson, MS D’Marco Goggins, Atlanta, GA Bernard Kemboi Kite, Eldoret Alora De’Lon Taylor, Madison, MS ENGINEERING Saurav Bhattarai, Kaski, Nepal

Thesis: Heatwave Dynamics and Urban Cooling: From Risk Assessment to Nature-Based Solution Advisor: Dr. Rocky Talchabhadel

Jackson State University® | 22

23 | Spring 2025 Commencement

* Summer 2025 Conferment

jackson state University® spring 2025

undergraduate commencement Order of exercises 9:00 A.M. Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Presiding Officer Prelude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “Triumphal March” from Aida. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Giuseppe Verdi Arranged by Douglas A. Richard University Wind Ensemble Roderick Little, Ph.D., Conductor Academic Processional Facilitator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Processional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fanfare and Processional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sir Edward Elgar Arranged by James D. Ployhar University Wind Ensemble (Audience remains seated) Presentation of Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JSU Army ROTC Color Guard (Audience stands)

National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .The Star-Spangled Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Francis Scott Key Arranged by William W. Davis Led by Kaytie Jeffries, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration The University Wind Ensemble (Audience remains standing) Negro National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J. Rosamond Johnson and James Weldon Johnson Led by Julia Johnson, Junior Music Education Major, Vocal Concentration University Wind Ensemble (Audience remains standing) Invocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rev. Barron Banks, M.Div. Pastor, Presbyterian Church (USA) Hattiesburg, Mississippi Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. 13th President, Jackson State University Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Caleab Pickens ‘25 79th Student Government Association President Reflective Message to the Graduating Class of 2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kourtney Smith ‘25 Senior Class President

Jackson State University® | 24

Musical Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Soon I Will Be Done . . . . . . . . . . . . .Arranged by Marques L. A. Garrett University Chorale Harry Cecil, DMA, Director of Choral Activities

Recognition of Candidates for Commissioning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lt. Colonel Rodgers Brown Army ROTC Presentation of Candidates for Degrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. Fidelis Ikem, Ph.D., Dean Tony Latiker, Ed.D., Dean Ramzi Kafoury, MPH, 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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, 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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. Closing Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. Alma Mater (Audience stands)

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

25 | Spring 2025 Commencement

*Hymn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . God Be With You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .William Tomer Led by Kaytie Jeffries, Senior Music Performance Major, Vocal Concentration University Wind Ensemble (Audience stands) 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rev. Barron Banks, M.Div. Recessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fanfare and Recessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sir Edward Elgar Arranged by James D. Ployer University Wind Ensemble Roderick Little, Ph.D., Conductor (Audience remains seated)

Jackson State University® | 26

27 | Spring 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.

A transfer student is eligible to be considered for honors provided: (1) the student has earned a minimum of 48 semester hours at Jackson State University prior to the semester of graduation; and (2) the student maintains a 3.20 or higher grade point average for the coursework completed at Jackson State University.

Students who already hold a baccalaureate degree are not eligible for this distinction.

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

Jackson State University® | 28

W.E.B. Du BoisMaria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Honors College The W.E.B. Du Bois-Maria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Honors College (Du Bois-Harvey Honors College) is an enhanced collegiate experience that facilitates leadership development through self, community and global awareness; involvement in scholarship that fosters uniqueness and decision-making maturity; research-based inquiry and discovery of solutions to local, national and international dilemmas; and immersion of techonolgy usage.

The Du Bois-Harvey Honors College offers members an opportunity to: • Follow a program of study at a pace commensurate with their ability • Increase intellectual interaction among their peers, professors and advisory • Provide the opportunity for experiential learning and research Graduation requirements for Du Bois-Harvey Honors College members: • Complete 30 hours of Honors courses and/or contracts with one hour in an Honors Colloquium • Participate annually in honors community service projects • Participate in a minimum of four honors enrichment sessions, monthly meetings or activities annually • Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA

2025 spring graduates: Omiyae Alexander Jakyeia Anderson Cayleigh Bland Teonia Cable Makenna Collins Sa’Nya Fleming

29 | Spring 2025 Commencement

Asija Gooden Kaile Johnson Skye Johnson Emmanuel Lockhart Devin Scott Kourtney Smith

Andreze Suggs-Ewing Kennedy Sumner Albert Tate Maniah Williams Chelsea Wilson

spring 2025 commencement

undergraduate candidates for degrees

Jackson State University® | 30

Fidelis M. Ikem, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business

Bachelor of Business Administration ACCOUNTING Javin J. Cole, Austin, TX †Caleb Jamar Crutcher, Huntsville, AL †Kevin Gaines II, Milwaukee, WI Wiliford Gooden, Jackson, MS Jayla Hale, New Orleans, LA ††Antonio Lemonte Handy Jr., Canton, MS ††Jordyn Kennedy Martin, Mobile, AL Quadry Keshawn Jones, Raymond, MS †Taylor Mason, Virginia Beach, VA Iyanna C. Washington, Tampa, FL

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION †Jireh Gabrielle Anderson, Atlanta, GA Jamie Bailey, Jackson, MS Jeremy Rashad Barner, Jackson, MS Raphael Barner, Jackson, MS Genaro Brown, Edwards, MS Johnny Brown Jr., Yazoo City, MS Mya Nyesha Brown, Memphis, TN Karrington Shaw Childs, Ellenwood, GA Quintez L. Clayton, Montgomery, AL †Nicholas Ja’Vonte Collins, Kenner, LA Robert Andre Cooper Jr., Memphis, TN Gabriel Tyrese Cox, Sylacauga, AL ††Taleah Dilworth, St. Louis, MO ††Jasmine Symone Felder, Jackson, MS ††Arian Felton, Madison, MS Patrick Myron Hannah, Baton Rouge, LA Lailah Marie Hawkins, Kansas City, MO †Charity Clairre Hayman, Las Vegas, NV †Tavia Miluv Hill, Kosciusko, MS David Jackson Jr., Luling, LA Vishal Jackson, Jackson, MS Nasya Nicole Johnson, Terry, MS ††Shanija Johnson, Yazoo City, MS Ladarious Jones, Atlanta, GA Kamryn Alexandria Jones, Dacula, GA Marian Kemp, Magee, MS Jaeden J. Kimble, Savannah, GA Samekia Lott-Lindsey, Jackson, MS Je-andrick Lourens, Curacao ††Taralah Ariel Martin, McComb, MS †Jonnetta Monique McNeal, Jackson, MS Charlie Newman Jr., Springfield, IL †Chassidy Pounds, Manvel, TX †Shana Aliyah Radcliff, Ridgeland, MS †Jacqueline A. Richardson, Utica, MS 31 | Spring 2025 Commencement

Alexis Andreana Roberson, Monticello, MS Tayari Sherwood, Miami, FL Jamie Singleton, Marietta, GA Liniah Carolyn Slater, Baton Rouge, LA †Angela Stokes, Jackson, MS Asia Stribling, Gulfport, MS Kareem Jamir Sullivan, San Francisco, CA LaToya Turner, Clinton, MS Latasia Ward, Jackson, MS Elijah Washington, Chicago, IL ††Dylan Wasson, Madison, MS Brittannii Wells, Metairie, LA Robert DuChone Wiley Jr., Chicago, IL Jerrika E. Williams, Memphis, TN Bianca Williams, Clinton, MS †Tionda Rockquail Yarbrough, Beloit, WI

Economics †††Carter Fitzgerald Smith, Jackson, MS

ENTREPRENEURSHIP †Hannah Curry, Jackson, MS Amaya Brionne Epps, Memphis, TN Dennis McCollum Jr., Jackson, MS Kobe Javonte’ Paul, Dallas, TX ††Kennedee Saraye Stanley, Brandon, MS Tyler D. Ward, Byram, MS SaVannah Valencia Williams, Detroit, MI

FINANCE ††Kazarius Daquan Bowie, Jackson, MS Jaylen Melvin Davis, Vicksburg, MS Cameron B. Mabry, Terry, MS

MANAGEMENT †Gerardo Baeza Medina, Boaz, AL Kristin Furdge, Byram, MS Briana A. Luckett, Jackson, MS Justin Darron Nichols, Jackson, MS ††Elijah Young, Miramar, FL

MARKETING Ayuana Bria Dandridge, Cordova, TN Yakendra A. Edwards, Chicago, IL Eryn Garrett, Charlotte, NC ††Jordan Holly, Jackson, MS Jayden Floyd Mack, Naperville, IL †Tierra Nelson, Baton Rouge, LA Chamarius Schaffer, Broadview, IL Japhiah Jamiah Watkins, Brandon, MS Jacolbie Williams, Jackson, MS

Supply Chain Management †††Cayleigh Noel Bland, Jackson, MS ††Mitchell Charles Cook, Clinton, MS

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

bachelor of science CHILDCARE AND FAMILY EDUCATION ††Catherine M. Bailey, Pass Christian, MS ††Teonia Janiah Cable, Jackson, MS VaLesha Gardner Carr, Jackson, MS Marissa Tierra Pittman Floyd, Magee, MS ††Jessica Denise Gamble, Natchez, MS †Bridget Nicole Jasper, Los Angeles, CA Ciera Queen Johnson, Chicago, IL LaShunda Lewis, Jackson, MS ††Shelearria Marshall, Jackson, MS Shaday Ty’Kiera McDuffie, Raymond, MS ††Lashanti McGee, Forest, MS Ossicia Sherrae Pelt, Gautier, MS ††Takiah Simone Marie Rodgers, Jackson, MS Alexandria Antwanett Solomon, Jackson, MS ††Destinequa Stewart, Hazlehurst, MS Mekisa L. Stovall, Jackson, MS †Brittianne Marie Taylor, Meridian, MS †Eleanor Crystal Terrell, Jackson, MS †Kellye Monique Trussell, Jackson, MS ††Idelia Q. Walker, Jackson, MS Paige O’Brion Ward, Como, MS †Patricia A. Young, Itta Bena, MS

Health, Physical Education and Recreation ††Jordan Bailey, Jackson, MS ††Jaylin Demetrius Bracy, Fairhope, AL †Caliah D. Childs, Amory, MS ††Amber L. Collins, Milwaukee, WI ††Kevin Lee Dobson, Puckett, MS Frankie James Dunn Jr., Ethel, LA ††Jakiylah Esco, Ridgeland, MS †Kristopher Patrick Gilbert, Ridgeland, MS †††Jireh Joseph Green, Brandon, MS Tytianda Mone’A Laury, Jackson, MS Stanley Leverson II, Coldwater, MS Keaton Scott, Universal City, TX ††Tamia Zhane Singleton, Jackson, MS ††Samoia Niauj Toy, Centreville, MS †††Joskia Anntranet Wilson, Bastrop, LA

Professional Interdisciplinary Studies Natasha Rechell Alexander, Foxworth, MS †Jasmian B. Ambo, Slidell, LA ††Mackenzie Barney, Tucson, AZ ††Diaka Berete, Toronto, ON

* Summer 2025 Conferment

††Elisha Barnes Booth, Collins, MS Daluan Bright, Lancaster, CA Kietsa Brown-Lay, Braxton, MS Kyra Janyee Clark, East Saint Louis, IL Zatoria Collins, Jackson, MS Marietta Victoria Demming, Mobile, AL †††Nicole Edison, Collins, MS †Erica Denise Edwards, Hattiesburg, MS Joseph Maurice Eichelberger, Lithonia, GA Eric Elliott, Glenn Dale, MD †††Jennifer Michelle Foxworth, Belzoni, MS James Cortez Fuller, Jackson, MS Braylon Isaiah Gamble, Jackson, MS Erykah Malinda Garrett, Charlotte, NC Cierra Gilbert, College Station, TX †Dacuria Mackenzie Hawkins, Jackson, MS †Gemel S. Henderson, Greenwood, MS †Barbara Hodge, Vicksburg, MS †Amoni Vinyae Rachel Jones, Clarksdale, MS †††Diamond Nicole Kelly, Walnut Grove, MS ††Marvin Landy Jr., Lakeland, FL †Ariel D. Love, Jackson, MS Logan Tyrece Mack, Edwards, MS Christopher Mannery, Jackson, MS †Anthony McCladdie, Harlem, GA ††LaTasha Renee McGee, Brandon, MS Morgan Aliana McNair, St.Louis, MO Shalance Montoya, Carlsbad, NM ††Sherieka Shuntia Nelson, Grenada, MS Rico Antonyo Powers Jr., Savannah, GA ††Ciara-Kiona Shaunice Purvis, Jackson, MS †Aarion Randolph, Olive Branch, MS Joshua Aaron Redfield, Chicago, IL †Juan Reyna III, San Antonio, TX William Bernard Robinson II, Grenada, MS Stella Davida Ann Ross, Jackson, MS Cowandric D. Samuel, Jackson, MS †Tashana V. Scott, Carthage, MS Thomas Isiah Simmons II, Canton, MS Kendarrius Smith, Jackson, MS Eric D. Stimage, Sr., Utica, MS Candance Kay Stutts, Jackson, MS ††Trista W. Thompson, Jackson, FL DeMarcus Tinsey, Jackson, MS D’Andre Townes-Blue, Willow Grove, PA Jiaury Alaiya Turner, Las Vegas, NV †††Donovan Joseph Warren, Santa Cruz, CA Evelyn Johnson Williams, Byram, MS †Tatum Marnez Wilson, St. Louis, MO

Special Education ††Arulan Nya Luckie, Montgomery, AL ††Skylyn Sierra Rankin, Carrollton, TX

* Summer 2025 Conferment

bachelor of Science in Education

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

Elementary Education

COMMUNICATIVE DISORDERS

††Aniya Renise Armstrong, Flora, MS ††Raven Ann Bivins, McKeesport, PA †OrMyiae’ R. Bogan, Jackson, MS †D’Naya Jerise Britton, Jackson, MS ††Mikaila Cavett, Jackson, MS ††Tyliyah Hall, Jackson, MS †††Caterra Hilton, Edwards, MS †Paige Hodges, Kansas City, MO †Morgan King, Jackson, MS †Amari C. Knapp, Minden, LA †Jaylah Tarea’ Lane, D’iberville, MS Makya Love, Saint Louis, MO †Brailyn Nicole Luckett, Jackson, MS †Kiana Amani Mabry, Joliet, IL †Lavender Mack, Laurel, MS Dinah Seona Pryor, Olive Branch, MS †Drameseia Quinn, Jackson, MS Anthony Khalid Sanders, Southfield, MI †Michael DeAngelo Stewart Jr., Belleville, IL †††Brynn Walker, Chicago, IL †Quiana D. Wilson, Jackson, MS

Michaela Anderson, Saltillo, MS †Kerrington Olivia Bolden, Silver City, MS Teria Shanté Dase, Heidelberg, MS Kimberly Ann Dowdle, Jackson, MS †††Jessica Gilkey, Byram, MS †Loren Graves, Jackson, MS Ashanti K. Hicks, Columbus, MS ††Gabrielle Cymone Jones, Canton, MS ††Kylan Jordan Jones, Memphis, TN ††Kiah Monét Reed, Flora, MS Tamia Speech, Byram, MS ††Ashley Williams, Madison, MS

Social Science Education †Treniti Smith, Danville, IL

bachelor of university studies University Studies Tikenya Monic’ Ellis, Chicago, IL Joshlyn Franklin, Brandon, MS Seychan Ephern Lewis, Vicksburg, MS Atanza LaToya McFadden, Ridgeland, MS ††Andrienne Kadijah McGloster, Jackson, MS Lucretia Hooker-Newman, Springfield, IL ††Elanda W. Robinson, Jackson, MS Rickey Lamont Robinson II, Jackson, MS Doris Wilson, Raymond, MS Kashia Zollicoffer, Carthage, MS

bachelor of science

HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION †Jamarius Keyontae Allen, Olive Branch, MS Miracle Irene Bloom, Palm Bay, FL †††Stephanie Branson, Jackson, MS ††Tyya Aaliya Bridges, Silver Creek, MS LiDarrius Brooks, Memphis, TN Megan Chantell Brown, Summit, MS †Johnthyn Edward Cameron, Franklin County, MS Montoria Montiyette Collins, Magee, MS Kaylar Davis, Jackson, MS †††Genesis Mercedes Dorsey, Jackson, MS Dexter Ealey Jr., Jackson, MS †Keenen K. Frazier Sr., Utica, MS Raeven C. Funnye, Chicago, IL Moriah Gunn, Vicksburg, MS †Javian C. Irby-Ross, Peoria, IL Arianna L. Jones, Joliet, IL Morgan Lipscomb, Madison, MS †Emajin Mariya McCray, Augusta, GA ††Wesley Lewis McLaurin, Laurel, MS Mayah Imani Moore, Ridgeland, MS †Aaliyah Mosley, Madison, MS ††Daffeny Woodall Mosley, Byram, MS Chareia Pugh, Byram, MS ††Tiffany Nicole Rawls, Brandon, MS Kiara Russell, Clinton, MS ††Alana R. Sampson, Jackson, MS Mardisa A. Smith, Jackson, MS Jada C. Stallworth, Gautier, MS Benjamin Cade Stewart, Prairieville, LA †Courtney Tatum, Fort Worth, TX ††Alexandria S. Thomas, Florence, MS Kalani Star Walker, Snellville, GA †Shawna Loree Watson, Lake Hamilton, FL †Te’a Alyse White, Jackson, MS Jackson State University® | 32

Kennedy Williams, Merrillville, IN Yolanda Lynn Wright, Edwards, MS

Public Health †††Skye Kalani-lee Johnson, Albany, GA †Caleab C. Pickens, Jackson, MS

bachelor of social work SOCIAL WORK †Jessica Kanae Bohanna, Holly Springs, MS ††Ashley Bracey, Vicksburg, MS †Ohmaree De’Wyan Douglas, Summit, MS †Odean Omar Gordon, Biloxi, MS Nykia Nicole Harmon, Gluckstadt, MS Portia Andrea High, Jackson, MS Sydnie Renae Huddleston, Matteson, IL †Kalier Johnson, Ridgeland, MS ††Christyana Yakira Kency, Jackson, MS †††Delmesha Kinner, Jackson, MS ††Lachelle Knox, Flint, MI Stacy Chanta Ruth Martin, Wesson, MS Alexis Spencer, Southaven, MS †Madison Leigh Terrell, Pearl, MS †Zakeya Thompson, Jackson, MS Kenidi Darniece Verdell, Columbus, MS ††Khaleah Alexandria Weathersby, Prentiss, MS Mackenzie Arnae Williams, Madison, IL Rico D. Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

bachelor of arts ART Michael Brown, Laplace, LA †††Glendon Jeffery, Jackson, MS †††Marques Lewis-Shelton, Flowood, MS †††Jonathan McDonald, Heidelberg, MS †††Kristian Nolden, Brandon, MS ††Lloyd Glen O’Bryant Jr., Vicksburg, MS †Jakobe D. Scott, Jackson, MS ††Ashanti Lakei Stiff, Jackson, MS Tyler Tremble, Powder Springs, GA ††Breanna Arielle Waller, Rosenburg, TX

ENGLISH †Kalyn Sharron Mitchell, Jackson, MS Destanie Nelson, Raymond, MS ††Braedyn Malik Noel, Raymond, MS Desmond Te’shawn Washington, Crenshaw, MS 33 | Spring 2025 Commencement

††Ka’Mya Williams, Raymond, MS

Foreign Languages Kya Mathis, Natchez, MS

HISTORY Davon Kyontious Davis, Senatobia, MS Tonette Joan Delk, Covington, GA ††Anthony Durrell Griffin, Jr., Brandon, MS Kevin Patrick Saunders, Gautier, MS †††Jada Van Buren, Jackson, MS

Political Science †††Omiyae’ Deniyae’ Alexander, Shreveport, LA †Tiereny Nicole Clark, Memphis, TN †Kourtney Graves, Dallas, TX †Christian Lake Jones, Clinton, MS ††Joleah Leavy, McComb, MS †Christian D. Mannery, Jackson, MS Jakolby Daquan Morrow, Jackson, MS Jordyn Patterson, O’Fallon, IL ††Kennedy Nicole Pierce, Chicago, IL Zoë Elizabeth Richardson, Marietta, GA Hannah Russell, Biloxi, MS †††Andreze Noel Suggs-Ewing, Grand Rapids, MI †††Maniah Moret Williams, Mansfield, TX

Sociology †††Cymphani Carey, Chicago, IL ††Christina Celan, Norwalk, CT Nyema Vonzell Foxworth, Denver, CO LaTonya M. Fulks, Jackson, MS Amir Quevon Mclellan, Dillon, SC ††Zaria Miller, Belleville, MI Jaylynn Danielle Taylor Rudd, Jackson, MS Lawrence Roderick Vann, Jackson, MS Serterria M. Whitfield, Aberdeen, MS †††Chandler Isaiah Williams, Ridgeland, MS

Speech †Addae’ Shawnece Lane, Nashville, TN †Javion Lyons, Jackson, MS †††Timothy James Magee Jr., Jackson, MS †††Lacey S. Mason, Jackson, MS †Stanley RJ Powell, Crystal Springs, MS †††E’Miyah A. Slan, Woodville, MS

bachelor of music Music †Kaytie Jeffries, Los Angeles, CA

bachelor of music education Music Education Christian Houghton, Columbia, SC Qua’Dragus Nelson, Dillon, SC

bachelor of science Criminal Justice and Correctional Services †Nathan Anthony James Archie, Little Rock, AR †††Stephanie Boggans, Brandon, MS ††Janice M. Bonds, Smithdale, MS ††Roynieceia Renae Cosey, Woodville, MS †††Ka’Nyla Sierria Crump, Bolton, MS †Jadyn Elyse Cunningham, Hattiesburg, MS †Andria Darby, Greenwood, MS †Sara JVon Davis, Natchez, MS †††Chiara Desia D’Abarno, Argentina Imani Halia-Marie Dupree, Elk Grove, CA ††Tyanna Fletcher, Richland, MS Ronnesha Tachelle Floyd, Crystal Springs, MS ††Ganiyah Armana Antonia Fuller, Grand Rapids, MI ††Kyra Marchell Garner, Memphis, TN †Autumn Earline Gould, Detroit, MI Makenzie Arianna Greer, Mesquite, TX ††Joshua Cottrelle Hall, Park Forest, IL †Deverick DeShawn Hanna Jr., Memphis, TN ††Vivica Hunt, Meadville, MS †††Zoé Kanise Johnson, Dallas, TX ††N’Fynytey Nayaii - J’Hayierr Johnson, New Iberia, LA †Mike Johnson, Jackson, MS Megan Jones, North Little Rock, AR Bryan Aleksander Lewis, Dallas, TX †Taja’ Akira Lewis, Jackson, MS Cory Christopher Luckett, Jackson, MS Bre’Anna Mays, Tulsa, OK †Shay’Aira Tay’Shaun McQuitty, Columbia, MO Diamond L. Mercer, Meridian, MS ††Candace Louise Mongo, Denton, TX †††Latasha Morgan, Brandon, MS ††TaKeisha Morgan, Jackson, MS ††Shelbie Monet Newman, Baton Rouge, LA Javia Newsome, Prentiss, MS ††Alexia Phillips, Atlanta, GA ††Tiyonna Sharday Powell, Greenwood, MS ††Mitchell Riedi, Miami, FL * Summer 2025 Conferment

Mi A. Roberts, Carmel, IN ††Avery Paul Salerno, Winston-Salem, NC ††Lauren Victoria Sargent, Lucedale, MS LaDarius Rashod Scott, Raymond, MS †Jamarion Marquelle Stewart, Yazoo, MS Ashley R. Tangle, Jackson, MS Douglas Taylor, Lambert, MS Ni’Kedria Nataye Thomas, Memphis, TN Jamelyn Walker, Jackson, MS Robert Lee Weathers, Chicago, IL †Treasure M.White, Decatur, IL †††JaNia Williams, Jackson, MS †RD Lawrence Wilson, Sharon, MS †Kristina Angela Wollenzien, Phoenix, AZ †Kayla Nicole Wright, Natchez, MS

Journalism and Media Studies †Matthew Kristopher Adams, Stockbridge, GA ††Jamiah Dannette Alexander, Yazoo City, MS Arnisha Ashanti Baker, Chicago, IL Jemari J. Fowler, Chicago, IL Morgan Bailey Graves, Indianapolis, IN Donovan Louis Jones, Jackson, MS Zoi Symone Latimer, Chicago, IL Roshundra Leatherberry, Jackson, MS Cameron Khalil Lewis, Atlanta, GA Zion Matthew Norris, Humble, TX Zachary J. Odom, Los Angeles, CA †††Juliana Rincón, Cali, Colombia FR Sydni Renee Stevens, Ridgeland, MS †††Trinity Taylor, Covington, TN ††Jaylin M. Thornton, Jackson, MS

Psychology ††Jakyeia S. Anderson, Starkville, MS Alexis V. Becnel, New Orleans, LA Empress G. Carr, Memphis, TN †Senethea M. Frazier, Saginaw, MI †††Aniya George, Atlanta, GA Elisha Shareese Johnson, Chicago, IL †Collin Sharnina Robinson, Jackson, MS Antionne Jeremiah Sellers II, Forest, MS ††Genea Hannah Washington, Terry, MS ††Taylor Victoria Williams, Gulfport, MS

Speech Kenkalleus K. Harris, Jackson, MS

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

bachelor of science BIOLOGY ††Derick Chidi Agulanna, Ridgeland, MS Kierra Allen, Fort Worth, TX Samaria La’sha Anderson, Olive Branch, MS †Devin Michael Ard, Jackson, MS ††Brianna Ann Ardd, Newton, MS †††Maya Askew, Atlanta, GA ††Kaylyn Banks, Jackson, MS Kennedy Marie Barnett, Houston, TX Joyia Makenzie Bell, Bolton, MS Alayah K. Bell, Atlanta, GA Brandayshia Blevins, Memphis, TN ††Jayla Renee Brown, Lancaster, TX Tamia Matrice Brown, Jackson, MS Vortez D. Bush, Macon, MS Jacelyn McKai Colbert, Athens, GA Dorian Davonté Cox, Jackson, MS Cai Aarilyn Davis, Lexington, MS †Miyah K. Erby, Aberdeen, MD †Nyah M. Evans, Laurel, MS †††Sa’Nya Fleming, Anniston, AL †††Gregriun A. Flowers, Woodville, MS Kyla Sherrel Gordon, Olive Branch, MS †Breland Cornelius Grayson, Byram, MS †Adrianna K. Herring, Jackson, MS Ronald Huddleston, Jackson, MS †Avaughn R. Johnson, Jackson, MS DaShara Johnson, Greenville, MS †Jade L. Jones, Chicago, IL Chanya M. Jones, Memphis, TN †A’Maya Monique Kidd, Bolton, MS †Brianna Lloyd, Little Rock, AR †Emmanuel Ladarius Lockhart, Collins, MS Raveen Verlene Logan, Southaven, MS Davonta Lyles, Camden, MS Rachelle Major, Ponchatoula, LA Magnifique Mbombo, Canal Winchester, OH Madison McLin, Chicago, IL Kevia Mone’t Miles, Jackson, MS Jared DeAnte’ Pearson, Memphis, TN †Thamar Scipio, Carson, CA Nicholas Adamari Strong, Vicksburg, MS †††Kennedy Naikole Sumner, Fort Worth, TX India Ariel Tibbs, Phenix City, AL Jada Turner, Florissant, MO Aniah Turner, Vicksburg, MS Jamerra La’Shae Warrick, Crenshaw, MS Rayna Li’angy Webster, Memphis, TN †††Ruth Wesley, Natchez, MS

†††Chelsea Dion Wilson, Little Rock, AR Dedra D. Young, Florence, MS

Biomedical Engineering Jasmyn Symone’ Bragg, Romulus, MI †††Kourtney Alysse Smith, Montgomery, AL ††Daylen G. Timmons, Hattiesburg, MS

Chemistry †Kaliya Kamarra Jenkins, Byram, MS †Jasmine Rebecca Jones, Heidelberg, MS Antwamesha Williams, Dallas, TX

Civil Engineering Jabaris D. Barnes, Collins, MS ††Daniel Ryan Bernard, Jackson, MS Martravian Ramel Carson, Vicksburg, MS Collyn Cornelious, Little Elm, TX †Triston Derrick, Pisgah, MS Na’Javion Elijah Goudy, Collins, MS Alisha D. Graves, Las Vegas, NV Keontae Montrez Grier, Atlanta, GA William Jadarion Jackson, Port Gibson, MS ††Kaile Sabrea Johnson, North Little Rock, AR David Jamal McDaniel, Alpharetta, GA †††Cindy Narvaez, Ridgeland, MS Malachi Jeremiah O’Neal, Omaha, NE Thomas F. Rankin II, Mobile, AL Jamyria Jainette Taylor, Jackson, MS

Computer Engineering Marquiette Chambers, Jackson, MS †Darian Colligan, Baton Rouge, LA Alexander C. Madiebo, Jackson, MS †††Brandon Tennyson Newton, Jackson, MS †††Mahlangu Nzunda, Lusaka, Zambia †††Ethan Ricks, Brandon, MS †Khaylah Precious Rose, Hollywood, FL Deborah Sanders, Jackson, MS ††Devin T. Scott, Jackson, MS

Computer Science Abdulrhman Abdullah, Ridgeland, MS †††Ikenna Okenwa Aku, Port Harcourt, Nigeria Jalen Gaddy, Jackson, MS Kolin Matthew Higgins, Atlanta, GA Jaylon Holmes, Raymond, MS Nicholas Omarji Jackson, Farmhaven, MS ††Nyjha Laree Marcelin, Glendale, AZ †Luke McClinton, Jackson, MS †Tyrus R. McCoy, Morton, MS †††Simbarashe L. Ndlovu, Harare, Zimbabwe ††Olusegun Ayodele Olutade, Abeokuta, Nigeria ††Bobby Lamont Tinez Sanders Jr., Gary, IN Jaidyn Elease-Diane Thomas, Dallas, TX Jackson State University® | 34

††Mya N. Thomas, Memphis, TN ††Catalina Tovar Gaitán, Bogotá, Colombia †††Alexandria J. Vassel-Thornton, Mobile, AL Knighton Ivory Walker, Stone Mountain, GA Makayla Selena Williams, Mobile, AL Eyole Wuno, Madison, MS

Earth System Science †††MaKenna Symoné Collins, Snellville, GA

Electrical Engineering Ke’Shya Trenee Austin-Cephus, Memphis, TN Jaylen Marquise Edwards, Jacksonville, FL McKinley Mathis, Lake Charles, LA Preston McGowan Jr., Utica, MS Vincent J. Ragan, Vicksburg, MS Caleb Austin Smith, Madison, MS †††Kentrel Steptoe, Liberty, MS ††Albert Devon Tate, Carthage, MS Dynale Washington Jr., Detroit, MI

Industrial Technology Cedric Nigel Cox Jr., Jackson, MS Kaitlyn De Verteuil, Jackson, MS Shamari Johnson, Jackson, MS Kelvin L. King, Jackson, MS Jeremiah Ra’Mona Sturgis, Jackson, MS

Mathematics †Azaiah Dee Ambrose, Natchez, MS Amira Suncere’ Carroll, Dallas, TX †Asjia Anyla’ Gooden, Flora, MS Shawnell Marquis Handy, Jackson, MS

Meteorology Janae Goodwin, Belleville, IL Jayla Deshae Iglehart, Dallas, TX Zakiya Chynise Johnson, Hampton, GA

Physics Journey Montea-Kareema Richardson, Wichita, KS Cassidy B. Thompkins, Memphis, TN Kira Williams, Chicago, IL

bachelor of Science in Education Mathematics Education ††Ja’Leah Hickmon, Newton, MS

35 | Spring 2025 Commencement

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

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

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Jackson State University Executive Cabinet and Deans Executive cabinet Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., President Denise Jones Gregory Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Ashley Robinson, Vice President and Director of Athletics Howard Brown, 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 Kylon Alford-Windfield, Vice President for Enrollment Management Onetta S. Whitley, J.D., General Counsel Mickie Parker, Executive Director of Human Resources 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 Tangelia Kelly, Ph.D., Chief Communications Officer and Executive Director of University Communications

deans Fidelis Ikem, Ph.D., College of Business Tony Latiker, Ed.D., College of Education and Human Development Ramzi Kafoury, MPH, 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 Preselfannie McDaniels, Ph.D., Graduate Studies Locord D. Wilson, Ph.D., Libraries

37 | Spring 2025 Commencement

Academic regalia The custom of wearing academic regalia stems from the Middle Ages when scholars were also clerics and wore the costumes in their Monastic orders.

The most common headpiece for the ceremony is the black square, flat topped or mortar board which is shaped like a board of the mason which holds the mortar.

The tassel on the doctor’s cap is usually gold in color and is worn on the left. The tassel on the master’s cap is usually black and is also worn on the left. The tassel on the bachelor’s cap, usually black, is worn on the right prior to graduation, then moved to the left when instructed by the presiding officer.

The hood, which is mentioned as early as 1480 in clerical literature, was originally used as a head covering, a shoulder cape and a bag in which alms could be collected.

The gown is usually black. The traditional doctor’s gown has velvet panels down the front and three velvet bars on the sleeves. The master’s gown has no velvet but does have unusually long sleeves. The bachelor’s gown is similar to the master’s but has regular length sleeves which are pointed. Some gowns may be the color of the department granting the degree, such as “Education Blue.” Others may be “Yale Blue” or “Harvard Crimson” for graduates of these universities.

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Hood and Tassel Colors Shown below is a listing of hood and tassel colors established by the Intercollegiate Code to represent several departments of learning. (Please note that not all departments listed here are established at Jackson State University.)

Agriculture |Maze Medicine |Green Arts, Letters, Humanities |White Music |Pink Business Administration, Accountancy |Drab Nursing |Apricot Dentistry |Lilac Oratory (Speech) |Silver Gray Economics |Copper Pharmacy |Olive Green Education |Light Blue Philosophy |Dark Blue Engineering |Orange Physical Education |Sage Green Fine Arts, including Architecture |Brown Public Administration, Service |Peacock Blue Forestry |Russet Public Health |Salmon Pink Home Economics |Maroon Science |Golden Yellow Journalism |Crimson Social Work/Science |Citron Law |Purple Theology |Scarlet Library Science |Lemon Veterinary Science |Gray Lifelong Learning |Garnet The blue and white cords worn by graduating students represent a $20 contribution, marking the start of their philanthropic journey with Jackson State University.

39 | Spring 2025 Commencement

Academic Degrees THE BACHELOR’S DEGREE A bachelor’s degree is the first academic degree that is conferred by a university to students who have completed the undergraduate coursework of study. The bachelor’s degree is sometimes called a baccalaureate degree. This degree is the most common type of college degree awarded by institutions of higher learning in the United States. The bachelor’s degree provides students with a foundation for entering many professional career fields and for further education.

THE master’S DEGREE The master’s degree is an academic degree that is conferred by a university to students who have successfully completed one or two years of approved course work beyond that of the bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree candidates are expected to exhibit and demonstrate mastery of a specialized body of theoretical and applied subject matter. A thesis or a project is usually required in many master’s degree programs.

THE specialist DEGREE The specialist degree is common in many education and psychology programs. It is conferred by a university to students who have completed academic study beyond the master’s level and below the doctorate level.

THE doctoral DEGREE The doctoral degree is the highest of the academic degrees conferred by a university.

It is offered in most fields of study. Doctoral degrees include the professional degree and the research degree. The professional doctoral degree calls for advanced training for the practice in professional fields such as medicine, pharmacy, law or nursing. The research doctorate requires approximately four years of advanced study and independent research. The years of study and excellent research are typically accompanied by a dissertation. The doctoral candidate is expected to make a contribution to the body of knowledge in the field of study.

candidates for degrees The commencement program booklet contains the names of candidates for degrees.

It is possible that a candidate listed in this publication may not have completed all degree requirements. Failure to remove the name of a person(s) listed in error does not obligate the University to grant the diploma. The student’s transcript is the official record of the University.

Diplomas will be mailed to the student approximately 2-3 months after commencement at the address indicated on the graduation application. For additional information, students may contact the Office of the Registrar and Records at 601.979.2300.

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2024-2025 student leadership senior class Caleab Pickens, SGA President Raegan Johnson, SGA Vice-President Kourtney Smith, President Nyah Evans, Vice President Kiana Mabry, Secretary Quadry Jones, Treasurer Jared Pearson, Senator Aniya George, Senator

graduate leadership Daija Green, President Austin Pierce, Vice President Sreenath Panchagnula, Student Advisor Joseph McBride, Membership Development Dwan Johnson, Secretary

41 | Spring 2025 Commencement

Graduate/Undergraduate Commencement Exercises COMMENCEMENT MACE BEARErs Dr. Ramon Jackson Dr. B. D’Andra Orey

president’s standard BEAREr Dr. Fidelis Ikem

Administration Standard Bearer Dr. Jennifer Young Wallace

college standard bearers College of Business Dr. Rishabh Rana Dr. Nizar Alsharari College of Education and Human Development Dr. Kenya Horne Dr. Alphonso Haralson College of Health Sciences Dr. Warren Brown Dr. Azad Bhuiyan College of Liberal Arts Dr. Jessica Love Dr. Ramon Jackson College of Science, Engineering and Technology Dr. Rachel Curtis Division of Graduate Studies Dr. Subrata Roy

chief/assistant Marshals Chief Marshal Dr. Carlos Wilson Assistant Marshals Dr. Yalanda Barner Dr. Kanesha Bennett Mr. Mark Geil Dr. Whitney Perkins Dr. Dion Porter

Undergraduate and graduate Student/faculty Marshals College of Business Cayleigh Bland Carter Smith LaKeithia Foggy TeRaye Harrien Dr. Edith Davidson Dr. Sharon Simmons College of Education and Human Development Caterra Hilton Amber Collins Shavon Davis Morgan Grier Dr. Doreen Myrie Dr. Karen Linstrum

College of Health Sciences Skye Johnson Jessica Gilkey Sarah Hinkle Ihunanya M. Kanu Dr. Candace Riddley Dr. Dawn Stanley College of Liberal Arts Omiyae Alexander Maniah Williams Joshua Tafeni Rebecca M. Jamieson Detrice Roberts Dr. Faith Brown College of Science, Engineering and Technology Ethan Ricks Sa’Nya Fleming Emmanuel Edorodion Dr. Hao Liu Dr. Rocky Talchabhadel

Readers

Dr. Lawanda Dickens Dr. Mark Henderson Dr. Phyllis Lewis-Hale RaShell Smith-Spears Dr. Preselfannie McDaniels Dr. Brittany Myburgh

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

American Sign Language Interpreters Tiffany Leach Vicki Lewis

Volunteer Coordinator Dr. La’Tonia Fulton-Haper

COMMENCEMENT PROGRAM designer Yolanda T. Brown

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spring 2025 Commencement committee Ms. Tershuna Bass Dr. Lisa Beckley-Roberts LTC Rodgers Brown Dr. La’Tonia Fulton-Harper Dr. Denise Gregory, Ex Officio Mr. Anthony Howard Mr. DeMarcus Leflore Mr. Christian Mannery Dr. Preselfannie McDaniels Mr. Victor Mills Dr. Emily Moses Dr. Brandi Newkirk-Turner, Chair Ms. Ashley Norwood Mr. Sreenath Panchagnula Ms. Eboni Phillips Mr. Caleab Pickens Dr. Dion Porter, Co-Chair Dr. Sheila Porterfield Dr. Arron Richardon Dr. Michael Robinson Ms. Kentrice Rush Ms. Kourtney Smith Chief Eric Stanton Mr. Lewis Stewart Dr. Jerome Tinker Ms. Lekesha Tubbs Ms. Sheree White Dr. Carlos Wilson Ms. Carol Woodson

43 | Spring 2025 Commencement

jsums.edu Jackson State University® | 44