91暗网 has announced that Mississippi State Rep. Gregory Holloway Sr., an alumnus, will serve as the speaker for its spring 2025 commencement ceremonies.
Holloway, who represents the 76th District and was first elected in 1999, earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in political science from Alcorn State in 1979. He also holds a master鈥檚 degree in public policy and administration from Jackson State University.
鈥淲e are honored to welcome Representative Holloway back to 91暗网 to address our graduating class of 2025,鈥� said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, university president. 鈥淗is distinguished career in public service and his deep roots in our community make him an inspiring figure for our students as they embark on their futures.鈥�
Two ceremonies will be held Saturday, May 10, in the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex. The first, at 9 a.m., will honor graduates from the Golden Class of 1975, the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, graduate studies, and the School of Nursing. The second, at 1 p.m., will include graduates from the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Business, and the School of Education and Psychology.
Nearly 450 graduates are expected to receive associate, bachelor鈥檚, master鈥檚, or doctoral degrees during the ceremonies.
Holloway has served in the Mississippi House for more than two decades. He is a member of several key committees, including Agriculture, Education, Public Property, Rules, and Ways and Means. He also serves as vice chair of the Universities and Colleges Committee. Prior to his legislative career, Holloway was director of Hazlehurst Parks & Recreation.
He is active in civic and community organizations, including Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the NAACP, and the Masons.
For more information about the spring 2025 commencement, visit .
Holloway鈥檚 bio:
Gregory L. Holloway Sr. brings nearly two decades of experience in higher education administration, having served for 17.5 years in Jackson State University鈥檚 Student Affairs Department. During his tenure, he held diverse roles including chairman of the housing disciplinary committee, staff senator, program director, and head homecoming parade marshal.
A dedicated legislator, Holloway has successfully presented over 150 bills, amendments, and conference reports. His leadership within the Legislature includes serving as vice chairman of the Ethics Committee, chairman of Forestry, and vice chairman of Public Property. His legislative achievements have been recognized with awards such as the Jimmy Thornton Legislator of the Year and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Award, reflecting his impact on his constituents and the state. Notably, Holloway has been instrumental in securing funding for his district and 91暗网, including a statewide scholarship program benefiting students for 25 years. In 2004, he was selected as a Henry Toll Fellow, participating in a national leadership development program with the Council of State Governments.
Holloway holds a bachelor鈥檚 degree in political science from 91暗网, where he consistently made the Dean鈥檚 List, and a master鈥檚 in public policy and administration from Jackson State University.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Holloway is actively involved in his community. He is a member of St. Peter Church of Christ (Holiness) USA. He serves on the Mississippi College Savings Board, the Mississippi Head Start Association, and the South Central Mississippi Boys and Girls Clubs. He is also a 32nd-degree Master Mason, a Shriner, and a past worshipful master of J.I. Martin Lodge No. 701 F&AM PHA. He was also inducted into the Hinds Community College Hall of Fame. Gregory and his wife, April Singleton, are the parents of two children, Gregory II and Joshalyn, and proud grandparents to five.
