The group attended the National Association of Student Affairs Professionals (NASAP) Student Leadership Institute at Claflin University in Orangeburg, S.C., from May 26 to June 1.

The six day program trains new HBCU student leaders to work with student organizations, administrators, faculty and one another. It is interactive by design, and it is demanding.

Alcorn’s representatives came from the Royal Court, Student Government Association, Student Ambassadors and National Pan-Hellenic Council.

They networked and took part in professional development alongside students and staff from 47 HBCUs.

���We are immensely proud of our students and staff for representing 91做厙 with such excellence and distinction on a national stage,��� said Dr. Edward Rice II, vice president for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. ���Their achievements reaffirm the strength of our institution and our continued commitment to developing leaders who embody character and purpose.���

Several Alcorn representatives earned recognition at the institute.

Jordan Davis, student engagement coordinator, was named Female Advisor of the Year. National Pan-Hellenic Council President Bryan Alvarez received a pair of Meta smart glasses. Kelunda Thomas-Robinson, assistant director of student engagement, received a Michael Kors bag for her work teaching students��� practical lessons in financial success.

Miss Alcorn Erin Nichols, won the institute’s ���Best Smile��� award, given to a student who brightens a room.

���This award is more than physical praise,��� Nichols said. ���It is an acknowledgement that I was able to brighten the lives of many I encountered through my kindness and my smile.���

She called the week impactful. ���My NASAP SLI experience was nothing short of amazing,��� she said. ���NASAP has allowed me to build confidence, knowledge and meaningful connections. I am grateful to be recognized for having the best smile at the institute.���

Sessions ranged from fundraising and grant writing to Greek life, hazing prevention and leadership style.

NASAP’s Student Leadership Institute develops student leaders holding roles from student government and class officers to Greek councils, student ambassadors, programming boards and royal courts, who are committed to strengthening their organizations and their universities. NASAP was founded in 1954.

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The students were led by Jonas Crenshaw, executive director of Mississippi Charter Schools Association and Alcorn alum. During their seven-day tour, they visited nine HBCUs with Alcorn being the eighth school visited. According to Crenshaw, since the start of his teaching career in 2001, he has sent over 350 students to attend Alcorn.

���A lot of our scholars aren���t familiar with southern HBCUs and I wanted to make sure they were offered affordable options that would also give them a good experience overall,��� said Crenshaw. ���I know the kind of support that our scholars can get at a school like Alcorn.���

He also emphasized the university���s affordability compared to northern HBCUs, noting that Alcorn does not charge out-of-state fees, making it a cost-effective option.

The group was greeted with a formal welcome from President Tracy Cook, the Student Government Association, Brave Ambassadors and Royal Court. Throughout the day, students received a tour of the campus, along with a taste of Alcorn traditions and customs, which stood out to student Cincere Friend from Chester, Pa.

���What really touched me the most was the student building for the Alcorn business school,��� said Friend. ���They touched on a lot of things that I was actually interested in. Overall, it was a warm welcome, felt family-oriented and overall just a 10 out of 10 experience.���

They also had the opportunity to engage with various faculty, staff and departments before going to lunch. During the visit, the group experienced ���Fish Friday���, when the campus community gathers in the cafeteria to enjoy music, fried and baked fish, Greek organizations strolling, and trail ride dancing. The atmosphere left an impression student Jacob Mickens from Philadelphia, Pa.

���The students, the ambassadors, the President, I can���t explain the energy that I got from Alcorn because it was so different from any other colleges that I���ve ever visited,��� said Mickens. ���It felt like home and the food, especially the catfish, was amazing!���

Assistant Director of Admissions Demartinez Simmons warmly welcomed the group, praising the students’ professionalism and expressing enthusiasm about assisting them through the enrollment process.

���The visit provided them with an opportunity to explore our academic programs and connect with staff and students, which helped them gain a better understanding of our culture,��� said Simmons. ���It was especially rewarding to see several students receive on-the-spot admission, and we look forward to the possibility of welcoming them back in the fall.���

The central theme emphasized during the visit was the university���s strong sense of community and its family-oriented environment.

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The conference, which took place April 21-22, 2026, was led by keynote speaker Dr. Theresa Horne, Vice President, Community Manager for Chase in Jackson, Miss. Her presentation, titled ���Purpose-Driven Leadership in Action���, encouraged students to pursue careers aligned with their passions and values, rather than focusing solely on salary. She emphasized the long-term fulfillment that comes from meaningful work.

���I feel that it was very important to give back to a community that has given so much to me,��� said Horne. ���Coming here to Alcorn State solidifies in my mind how we can give back to the next generation, making sure that they���re prepared, ready and know who they are once they step out of these doors.���

The conference featured a dynamic lineup of speakers who brought diverse perspectives from their experience in corporate leadership roles including Amber Therrell the HR specialist at Mississippi Blood Services, Monica Smith-Wallace the Early Talent Acquisition Manager for Corporate Services at Caterpillar Inc.

Levell Spencer the Global Human Resources Business Partner at Caterpillar Inc. and Dr. Jason Gibson, author and assistant professor at 91做厙 were also speakers at the event.

���My driving force is centered around helping students develop in their purpose and cultivate their brand,��� said Gibson. ���Purpose and branding are two essential attributes required to thrive post undergrad. I believe the tools that we are equipping students with are going to be integral to their success leaving Alcorn.���

Additional speakers were entrepreneurs who found solutions to challenges they personally experienced. Rahul Jindal, co-founder of MyCareerCloset, wanted to even the playing field of first impressions by providing students access to affordable clothing. Sterling Mark, founder of Sterling Empowerment, drew from his own experience with housing instability and frequent school transitions. His mission is to prepare students, equipping them with tools and knowledge that he wished he had.

���Having the opportunity to pour knowledge into them that could help them better prepare for the next phase of their life is my purpose,��� said Mark. ���Seeing the faces of the students receiving the information and watching them leave empowered and rejuvenated is something I wouldn���t trade for the world. I look forward to returning to the rich history here at Alcorn State and keeping the fire alive in them.���

The conference bridged the gap between corporate professionals and entrepreneurs, exposing students to tools that can help them thrive beyond their undergraduate education. The university continues to invest in shaping confident, career-ready scholars who will strive to make an impact in their fields.

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The university has launched the Brave Career Closet, a free professional clothing resource made possible through a new partnership with MyCareerCloset. Students, recent graduates and community members can now access suits, blazers, blouses, dresses, shoes, ties, jewelry and accessories.

The resource is built for real life. Visitors schedule an appointment and work one-on-one with a stylist to select attire tailored to their specific professional needs. Up to three items may be borrowed per visit for 30 days. Items must be returned after that period, and reselling or redistribution is strictly prohibited to preserve equitable access for all.

For students who demonstrate financial need, a keep-it kit option is available. No returns required. The items are theirs to keep, so the support extends beyond the interview room.

Michael Harper, director of Career Services and Pre-Professional Programs, noted the initiative closes a gap that too many students quietly face.

���We often talk about meeting students where they are, and careercloset.org allows us to do exactly that,��� said Harper. ���From connecting them with a professional stylist who can advise on proper attire to providing clothing that will help them excel in the workforce, we are ensuring our students are professionally fit and ready on all levels.���

The Brave Career Closet is located in room 209 of the James L. Bolden Campus Union on the ��second floor. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome.

Students and community members who prefer a more personalized experience can schedule an appointment in advance at careercloset.org.

The Brave Career Closet held a virtual open house during the Student Leadership Conference on April 21.

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Forrest, a senior recreation major from Winona, Miss., set a new SWAC record in the men���s 400-meter final with a time of 47.10 seconds. Williams, a sophomore sports management major from West Palm Beach, Fla., also set a record in the men���s 200-meter final, clocking 20.97 seconds.

Beyond their performances, both Forrest and Williams emphasized the discipline required to succeed at the collegiate level, balancing demanding training schedules with academic responsibilities.

���We���re student athletes first,��� Forrest said. ���Without academics, there is no track.���

Williams added that mental preparation plays a key role in performance. ���I stay positive, trust the work I���ve put in, and come in with the right mindset every time.���

Head coach Alonzo Banks praised both athletes for their consistency and ability to perform under pressure. He also highlighted the importance of trust and individual development within the program, noting that each athlete is coached based on their unique needs.

���Our sport is very mental, and it���s individual first,��� Banks said. ���I take time to understand each athlete and what motivates them. When they step on the track, it���s just them in that moment, and they have to be ready. Forrest and Williams showed that they were ready.���

They finished the championships with two gold medals and multiple podium finishes across the men���s and women���s teams. The men���s team placed 10th overall with 29 points.

As they transition into the outdoor season, Forrest and Williams remain focused on building upon their success and continuing to elevate the program.

���This was a great weekend, but we know there���s more ahead,��� Banks said. ���I���m proud of what they accomplished, and we���re going to keep pushing.���

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King, director of the MS Small Business Development Center @ 91做厙, has been selected among 33 community leaders to serve as a 2026 Delta Leadership Institute Executive Academy Fellow.

“This moment represents not just personal achievement, but progress for the communities and women leaders who are often underrepresented at regional decision-making tables,” said King. “Being accepted into this cohort affirms the importance of community-driven leadership and regional collaboration in advancing economic opportunity across the Delta.”

The Natchez, Miss., native was selected based on her contributions to the community and commitment to expanding her knowledge of economic development strategies.

The nine-month program will allow her to network with leaders from the Mississippi River and Alabama Black Belt regions. King will participate in experiences designed to strengthen leadership decision-making skills, policy development and understanding of regional, state and local issues.

“Through the DLI Executive Academy, I am excited to gain deeper insight into regional economic strategies, policy alignment, and cross-sector partnerships that can be adapted and brought back to communities with limited resources,” said King. “This fellowship strengthens my ability to move communities from isolated efforts to coordinated regional solutions that support small business growth, job creation, and economic mobility.”

King’s work centers on connecting small business, education and workforce development to strengthen rural communities. She has spent years working with entrepreneurs and families with limited access to capital, technical assistance and opportunity.

“The knowledge and relationships gained through this cohort will directly inform how I advocate for and support rural Mississippi communities, ensuring that economic development is practical, inclusive, and sustainable,” said King.

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“This honor serves not only as a milestone, but as motivation by continuing to lead with integrity, service, and excellence,” said Fisher. “I look forward to using this platform to uplift others and help create opportunities for the next generation of professionals at 91做厙.”

Fisher earned the recognition for her work addressing and researching environmental issues that impact the equity of underserved communities statewide. She credits Alcorn State for fostering an environment that encouraged her to tackle challenges beyond her responsibilities as an assistant professor.

“To My Alma Mater- Where Knowledge and Character Matter ��� thank you for establishing standard of excellence and for providing an educational foundation that exceeded my expectations and continues to guide my work as an Assistant Professor of Biology,” said Fisher. “Through teaching and research, I strive to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for science that empowers students to possibility where others see limitation.”

A product of Mississippi higher education, Fisher earned an associate degree in pre-pharmacy from Hinds Community College before returning to Alcorn State, where she completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology. She went on to earn her doctorate in environmental science at Jackson State University.

The Mississippi 50 Under Fifty recognition spotlights individuals who demonstrate professional excellence, leadership, and a commitment to service. Fisher’s selection is a testament to Alcorn State’s continued role in shaping scholars and professionals who go on to leave their mark on communities across the state.

In and out of the classroom, she pushes students to think critically and apply what they learn to real-world problems. “Young scholars, you have the potential to make your dreams a reality ��� so dream boldly and reach higher,” said Fisher. “Inspired by astronaut Mae Jemison’s words, ‘Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.'”

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The alliance selected Daniels for his contributions to arts education, leadership and career-long dedication to advocacy.

During the academic year, Daniels organized fine arts programs, scholarship audition days, jazz festivals in Vicksburg, Miss., and a jazz performance at the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience (The MAX) in Meridian, Miss.

“If you don���t see the arts in a community, it doesn���t mean people aren���t interested or capable,” said Daniels. “It often means they haven���t been exposed. As artists and educators, it���s our responsibility to bring that exposure���to meet people where they are and invite them into the experience.”

A former student nominated Daniels for the award, crediting his guidance and support as factors in their academic success and graduation.

“When students are exposed to different genres of music and performances it challenges them to think critically as well as grow creatively,” said Daniels. “That kind of exposure changes lives.”

Daniels has taught music for more than 30 years. He previously held leadership roles at Tennessee State University, Benedict College and the Percussive Arts Society. He also performed as a timpanist for the Color of Music Festival Orchestra.

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The event, titled ���Good Religion: An Exploration of the Black Church���s Contribution to Music, Community, and Education,��� is free and open to the public. Organized in collaboration with the Departments of Social Work and Social Sciences, the discussion will explore the historical role the Black Church plays in shaping cultural identity, spiritual music traditions, civic engagement, literacy initiatives, and leadership development.

The panel will feature Dr. Valtreasa Tolliver-Cook, chair of the Department of Social Work; Dr. Jason Gibson, professor of history; the Rev. Dr. C.J. Rhodes, director of religious and spiritual life; and the Rev. Austin Warren, assistant director of religious and spiritual life.

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The students will receive their certificates March 18���19 during the University of Mississippi���s two-day Insurance Symposium, where they will engage with insurance and business industry executives.

The students receiving their certificates are Nekiah Arrington, a sophomore accounting major from Memphis, Tenn.; Amelia Daniels, a sophomore accounting major from Cleveland, Miss.; Xavier Freeman, a sophomore accounting major from Yazoo City, Miss.; Nayana Triplett, a sophomore accounting major from Gulfport, Miss.; and Bailey Upshaw, a sophomore accounting major from La Porte, Texas.

���As we celebrate our third cohort, this program exemplifies the enduring strength of our partnership with the University of Mississippi���s Center for Insurance Transformation,��� said Dr. Antwon Woods, dean of the School of Business. ���Year after year, we���ve consistently provided exceptional students with the dual advantage of earning their Certificate in Risk Management while securing guaranteed internships with industry leaders like Gallagher, Brown & Riding, Ross & Yerger, and McGriff. This consistency demonstrates our unwavering commitment to creating sustainable pathways for student success.���

The program is led by Dr. Andre Liebenberg, founder and director of the Center for Insurance Transformation, Robertson Chair of Insurance, and professor of finance at the University of Mississippi.

Liebenberg developed the certificate and internship program in partnership with the Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers (CIAB). The initiative is supported by four founding industry partners���Brown and Riding, Gallagher, McGriff, and Ross and Yerger���who fund the program and provide internships and mentorship to participating students.

���The certificate program was an answer to prayer ��� about how to help students from HBCUs that don���t have insurance courses to be prepared for internships with insurance brokerages,��� said Liebenberg. ���It combines critical institutional background and real-world application of principles. We visit with industry experts over Zoom and discuss the educational concepts as well as their careers and advice for success.���

Woods noted that the caliber of participating firms demonstrates the program���s value and its long-term return on investment.

���The caliber of firms investing in our students speaks volumes about the quality of education we provide at the 91做厙 School of Business,��� said Woods. ���When nationally recognized organizations consistently recruit our students for internships���many of which convert to full-time employment���it validates both the rigor of our curriculum and the exceptional return on investment our students and partner firms receive.���

Launched during the 2023���2024 academic year, the initiative has grown steadily.

���We appreciate the strong support we have received from Dean Antwon Woods,��� said Liebenberg. ���He has welcomed us into the business school and has been critical in our success recruiting Alcorn students.���

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