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Twelve Alcorn State students from the School of Agriculture and Applied Science, accompanied by Dr. Barry Bequette, a professor for the School of Agriculture, Research, Extension, and Applied Sciences, and Alice Leach, a professor of human development and family science, attended the 1890 Universities Foundation Career Development Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, from February 28 to March 2.

The conference served as a networking and educational experience for all attendees.

“Students who attended the professional development conference interacted with USDA professionals in a professional setting. During the conference, students learned the requirements for federal employment, the availability of internships across the United States, and expectations from them for employment by the government,” said Bequette.

The students used the opportunity to broaden their knowledge to work to become the best version of themselves within their fields.

“I networked and made valuable connections. I gained knowledge on job readiness and federal resumes and learned about career development opportunities in the federal sector. I also heard from industry professionals about the importance of professionalism and how this would benefit us throughout our lives. I am a proud HBCU student who is very grateful for the opportunities. Thank you, 91°µÍø, for granting me this opportunity to venture out and grow more as a person with the help of my peers and department leaders,” said Senia King, one of the student attendees.

Attendees also networked professionally with peers and mentors from other historically black colleges and universities.

“Students were allowed to see how other students outside Alcorn presented themselves and represented their universities. The professional standards of the 1890 Foundation Career Development Conference pushed our students to bring out their best attitudes and behaviors while assimilating all the vital information they need to be successful products of the HBCU communities,” said Leach.

The conference included five workshops to teach students information that will be valuable as they progress through their careers.

“I left Atlanta feeling I could have a successful career. The resume workshop helped me the most and was very informative about writing my federal resume. Also, the one-minute interviews in front of the state conservationist were nerve-wracking because it was all new to me; however, I am grateful for the opportunity to attend and meet individuals from the USDA,” said Jasmine Jones, one of the student attendees.

Gratitude was expressed to Alcorn and the USDA for providing the opportunity for students to participate.

“I am so blessed by the path my HBCU has taken me, being able to branch out and network amongst other schools and make connections along the way. I am glad to be a part of the environment that grows from my school and everything it offers,” said Porche Brown, one of the student attendees.

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Scholars at 91°µÍø were honored for their classroom excellence during the University’s annual celebration of academic success.

The University held its 84th annual Honors Convocation Thursday, March 23, at the Oakland Memorial Chapel, recognizing scholars from the fall 2022 and spring 2023 semesters. The ceremony honored 1,022 Dean’s Scholars and 592 President’s Scholars.

The students were excited to be celebrated for their dedication to their studies. President Scholar Vanessa Washington, a junior biology/pre-medicine major from Little Rock, Arkansas, takes pride in her reward.

“Being recognized for my hard work means more to me than some may know,” said Washington. “This honor motivates me to continue the hard work. I’ve worked hard to be recognized, and it feels good to be rewarded for doing my part.”

Dean’s Scholar Christopher Epps, a senior plant and soil science major from Port Gibson, Mississippi, felt privileged to be honored alongside many successful Alcorn students.

“I worked diligently every day to receive such an honor, and I am glad to share this moment with fellow Alcorn scholars,” said Epps, who also serves as Student Government Association president. “Seeing my peers receive these awards makes me proud to be a part of a community with high achievers. We are equipped to walk among other Alcornites who have found success worldwide.”

The Rev. Dr. C. Edward Rhodes, II, interim director of the Myrlie Evers-Williams Honors Program, delivered the ceremony’s invocation. He applauded the scholars for giving their maximum efforts.

“We are here to educate students, and of the students that we’ve educated, these are the creme de la creme,” said Rhodes. “We celebrate these students for their scholarship. They could not have made the Dean’s List or President’s List without hard work in the classroom, studying, and being reminded that their reason for being here is to get good learning. These are the gold standard because of their academic achievements. We are reminded that here at Alcorn, knowledge and character matter. We celebrate the knowledge and character of these students today.”

Rhodes encouraged the scholars to utilize their intelligence in ways that serve others and promotes growth in the world.

Knowledge alone is not enough. Dr. Cornell West said, ‘Let the phones be smart; we need wise people.’ We need people who are smart and intelligent and can use their brain power to make a significant difference in this world. We think about this in terms of service, the rent we pay to occupy this planet. We hope that you use your brilliance to make your world a better place.”

Rhodes continued by motivating the scholars to remain dignified in their endeavors.

“We demand that you understand your dignity. We bleed purple and gold. When one thinks of purple and gold, one is reminded that these are the colors of royalty. How wonderful is it that in a rural place that, somehow, God graced you to be in a place that reminds you that even though we’re rural, we’re still royal? You are royal, so you better act like it.”

Dr. Natasha Hutson, chief of staff, concluded the ceremony by saluting the scholars for upholding the University motto.

“You have personified our motto, ‘Where knowledge and character matter,’ by excelling in your course work and demonstrating that Alcorn students are scholars of distinction who will do great things in this world,” said Hutson. “Continue to forge ahead with dignity, honor, and pride. Always strive for excellence and believe in the positive and amazing that you can and will do.”

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Story courtesy of Disney

By Robyn Sheckler 

Inclusion is at the heart of everything that we do at The Walt Disney Company. Through our storytelling, content, experiences, and products we strive to create a culture of belonging so our guests feel seen and represented. The same goes for our workplace. Each unique perspective about the world inspires us and allows us to be more diverse.  With Disney on the Yard, we’re deepening our engagement with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and are proud to be an impactful supporter of the HBCU community as we continue to engage more people.   

Disney on the Yard’s work with HBCUs continues to provide unique and meaningful opportunities to the HBCU community. For the past several months, the team has worked alongside Disney Institute and National Geographic Live to bring the first-of-its-kind diverse education and exploration offerings to select HBCU campuses around the U.S. 

As part of Black History Month, celebrated National Geographic Explorer and wildlife ecologist Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant visited Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia while National Geographic Explorer and African Diaspora Archaeologist Dr. Alicia Odewale visited Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas. Last fall, Dr. Odewale also visited Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana. They each invited students to discover careers in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) and shared their behind-the-scenes stories from the front lines of exploration alongside stunning imagery and gripping footage. Students were able to ask Dr. Wynn-Grant and Dr. Odewale personal questions, network on-site, and learn more about Disney on the Yard programming and National Geographic internships and scholarships. 

In the field, Dr. Grant works to protect and restore iconic wildlife populations, including North American black and grizzly bears. Dr. Odewale, who is a professor in and native to Tulsa, Oklahoma, travels across the U.S. to recall her groundbreaking journey and pathway to uncovering stories of resilience in the hundred years since the attack on Black Wall Street in Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District. She highlights how archaeology and radical mapping can be used as a tool for recovering lost stories, reclaiming a narrative, and pursuing restorative justice. 

Tiffany Oliver, Ph.D., an associate professor and chair of the biology department at Spelman College, was thrilled to host Dr. Wynn-Grant on campus. She found her presentation helpful and inspiring for students. “Dr. Wynn-Grant did an excellent job showing our students that there are many pathways to the Ph.D and that each student has the right to determine their own path while remaining true to themselves,” said Dr. Oliver. “Her description of her challenges navigating graduate school and her postdoc, decisions on motherhood, and more showed our students that black women who obtain PhDs in STEM are not just scientists, but they are daughters, sisters, mothers, and wives.” 

Dr. Odewale said of her time on campuses, “Partnering with Disney on the Yard and sharing my National Geographic Live show “Greenwood: A Century of Resilience” with HBCUs around the country has been an amazing experience. I have been able to connect with Black students, faculty, and staff at these historically vital institutions and share this larger story of Black community resilience in the aftermath of the Tulsa Race Massacre, all alongside the unique story of how I, as a Black woman from Oklahoma, became an archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer.” 

Similar to National Geographic Live, experiential events were integral for Disney Institute’s unique on-site educational programming. Facilitator Christopher Fults and Senior Facilitator and 2006 Walt Disney World Ambassador Marjorie Colas, PHR, MBA, delivered their own special brand of magic through one-day learning and development events to faculty and staff. 91°µÍø’s team was presented with Disney’s Approach to Leadership Excellence, while Norfolk State University’s team was presented with Disney’s Approach to Quality Service. A distinctly Disney experience, the offerings were designed to enhance knowledge and transferrable skills in leadership and quality service by showcasing how proven Disney business practices can be adapted and applied to other organizations. 

“Disney has been an amazing partner for 91°µÍø,” said Dr. Ontario Wooden, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at 91°µÍø. “They’ve provided internships, allowed our marching band, the Sounds of Dyn-O-mite, to perform during HBCU Week in Orlando, Florida, an on-campus career fair, and hosted its Disney Institute to offer professional development for our faculty and staff. These experiences have offered high-level opportunities for our university community to receive practical experience and learn new skills to unlock their potential. We are grateful to Disney and its continued investment in Alcorn.” 

Marjorie Colas said, “I was honored to represent Disney Institute in partnership with Disney on the Yard to facilitate two of our pillar courses. The HBCUs have a significant impact on educating the Black community, and to be able to be part of this collaboration was gratifying to me personally. I love the impact that our company can make by bringing a little Disney Magic to campuses across our nation. Representation matters and the HBCUs and Disney on the Yard are enabling, empowering and inspiring Black students. I can’t wait for next semester to visit more campuses.” 

Christopher said, “Having the opportunity to participate in our Disney on the Yard initiative was a great way to engage with HBCUs and have meaningful conversations. As a Cast Member, it is impactful to see how we give back and uplift our communities. It’s a privilege to be able to showcase what we have learned at Disney and enhance a university’s own type of magic for their students, faculty, and staff.” 

No matter the city or state, each campus activation had one clear message: never stop exploring – either mind or matter. National Geographic awarded a student at each school with a $10,000 scholarship. The selected students were also given the opportunity to participate in an upcoming two-week immersion program at the National Geographic campus headquarters in Washington, D.C., and receive an executive mentor.   

Karen Greenfield, Senior Vice President of Content, Diversity & Inclusion for National Geographic Content said, “Our goal is for scholars to gain valuable experience learning from experts at a strong global brand and an organization with a rich history of scientific discovery, exploration, and dynamic storytelling. On-site they’ll be able to learn about the various lines of businesses, from traditional media to experiences that bring the National Geographic brand to consumers worldwide.”  

Corey Savage, Manager, Outreach & Engagement at The Walt Disney Company, who helped bring this entire campus tour to life and has more events planned for additional HBCUs in the coming months, said, “We’re proud to support HBCUs and provide diverse opportunities that directly benefit the HBCU community’s needs at all levels.” 

This work is part of , an initiative that empowers the next generation of storytellers and innovators to dream about their future, build their talents and skills, and become who they imagine they can be. 

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91°µÍø will celebrate the opening of one of its newest campus buildings later this month.

The University will host the Dr. Rudolph Waters Sr. Classroom Building Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Friday, March 31, at 11 a.m. The building will be the home to the University’s School of Business. A reception will follow the event.

President Felecia M. Nave, Ph.D. acknowledged the hard work of completing the new building.

“The University has worked diligently to complete this significant project, so we’re elated to celebrate the official opening of this structure,” said Nave. “We thank and appreciate the Mississippi legislature and Miss. Institutions of Higher Learning for the funding and support in constructing the building as well as the Miss. Bureau of Building of Bureau, Grounds and Real Property Management for project management.” 

The building’s namesake, Dr. Rudolph E. Waters Sr., was born in Brookhaven, Miss., in 1932. He obtained a B.S.C. degree from DePaul University, an Ed.M. degree from Boston University, and a Ph.D. from Kansas State University, in addition to studying at Southern Illinois University. Waters was dedicated to serving the 91°µÍø Foundation, Inc. for over 41 years in various capacities, including treasurer, secretary, and chairman of the Always Alcorn Annual Fund Campaign. Upon retirement in 2005, he established the Dr. Rudolph E. Waters Sr. Endowment to support financially needy students at Alcorn. Waters was involved in several professional organizations, including serving as chairman of the State Accreditation Commission of Mississippi from 1979-1981 and as president of Phi Delta Kappa from 1991-1993.

“Dr. Rudolph E. Waters Sr. dedicated over four decades of his life to 91°µÍø, advocating for its students and programs,” said Nave. His commitment to education and philanthropy make him a prime candidate for a building to be named after him, ensuring his legacy lives on for generations to come.”

The state-of-the-art facility spans over 38,000 square feet and boasts cutting-edge features such as a stock ticker and a simulated trading room. The facility also includes an auditorium with a seating capacity of 400, lecture halls, classrooms, computer labs, and faculty offices. Additionally, there are dedicated innovation and collaboration spaces incorporated into the design of the new structure.

The construction project began in 2019, and it was carried out by Flagstar Construction, while the architectural firm responsible for the design is Allred Stolarski Architects.

“We’re excited to offer such an innovative building to our campus, and we can’t wait for our business students, faculty, and staff to experience the finished product. Adding this resource is consistent with our mission of providing the best for our campus community, said Nave.”

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Four students and one faculty member from the School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences participated in a study tour in Barbados facilitated by the Eastern and Southern Caribbean Office of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) from Feb. 15 to March 7.

91°µÍø signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with USAID during the 2022 spring semester. The tour was supported through the CEIED Grant “Strengthening the Certificate of Global Perspectives.” The CEIED is the 1890 Center of Excellence in International Engagement and Development.

“The study tour with USAID in Barbados was planned to emphasize topics related to climate change, the Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology work, internship opportunities, research, tropical agriculture, and USAID’s development programs in the Eastern and Southern Caribbean region,” said Dr. Dovi Alipoe, director of Global Programs.

This opportunity served as a growing and learning experience for all parties involved. It has been an experience that has positively contributed to the development of students and organizations.

“Through the partnership, USAID and Alcorn seek to build on each other’s respective strengths, experiences, technologies, methodologies, investments, and resources to facilitate increased collaboration in areas of international development,” said Alipoe.

Students enjoyed the tour and were grateful for the opportunity to experience Barbados and its knowledge.

“This experience was a great one! I got to see what life was like outside of the United States. Being on a non-technology island opened my eyes to the things around me. Technology has always taken things from us, such as socializing face-to-face and meeting new people. I look forward to future opportunities such as this one! Alcorn providing this opportunity was very beneficial! Since it was our first time out of the country, it gave us some life-lasting experience that will strengthen our resume and expand our horizons and future endeavors. I truly appreciate 91°µÍø for presenting me with this opportunity because opportunities like this do not happen often,” said Kendall Gibbs Jr., a student attendee.

Gratitude is expressed to Alcorn by those who attended because of the knowledge provided.

 “Traveling and studying abroad will always be a treasured experience for me. It is amazing how different and how similar our cultures are. I enjoyed being able to experience life as a growing adult. 91°µÍø has always been an extraordinary institution of higher learning. Our university ranks high in providing opportunities for its students. I have always loved Alcorn State, and I am privileged to have been selected to travel to Barbados for a rewarding learning experience,” said Laila Wright, a student attendee.

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An 91°µÍø fundraising professional shared her expertise with colleagues from across the country during an annual conference.

Pamela Mitchell, who serves as manager of Advancement Services for Institutional Advancement, presented during the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) District III Annual Conference on Sunday, Feb. 26, in Atlanta. Her topic was “How to Eat an Elephant: Segmenting Data to Smash Fundraising Goals.”

The presentation allowed Mitchell to relate to her colleagues from schools across the country and brainstorm methods to tackle similar challenges.

“It was an absolute honor to present to my peers and share my insights,” said Mitchell. “It was an eye-opening experience to see the commonalities we share with other schools across the nation and the obstacles we are all tasked with overcoming. I feel blessed to have been able to discuss what works for me and to guide others in their pursuit of enrichment in their roles as fundraising professionals.”

Mitchell aimed to encourage her peers to embrace data collection in their efforts.

“I wanted participants to realize the importance of collecting data in their philanthropic efforts so that institutions could identify their donors. There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to communicating with constituents. If we want to meet them where they are, we must know who they are. Once we know that, we can develop more targeted strategies that help us reach our fundraising goals.”

Some of Mitchell’s highlights include networking with peers and learning more about her field. She’s grateful for the experience.

“Everything about the conference was amazing; the atmosphere, the environment, and especially the other topics presented. What I enjoyed most about presenting at CASE was the opportunity to network with so many people and connect with like-minded professionals. I was able to share my experiences as an advancement services professional and gain invaluable knowledge that I could apply to my role at Alcorn and my career in higher education.”

Mitchell will present at the Association for Fundraising Professionals’ AFP Icon Conference in New Orleans in April.

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One of 91°µÍø’s Department of Mass Communications students was among several aspiring journalists to attend the White House for a press briefing.

D’Marius Jones, a senior from Jackson, Mississippi, was invited to participate in a White House Press Briefing with Vice President Kamala Harris and Senior Advisor for Public Engagement Keisha Lance Bottoms Thursday, Feb. 23. Student journalist representing 47 HBCUs from across the country visited the White House to discuss critical issues that impact their communities.

The opportunity was a significant moment for Jones in his education. He’s grateful for the support that Alcorn has shown.

“My experience was a blessing,” said Jones. “I’m honored that my beloved institution sees my potential and work ethic. I thank God, the Department of Mass Communications, President Dr. Felecia M. Nave, and her administrative team for preparing me. 91°µÍø is an environment that promotes growth and equips students with the tools to perform at a high level.”

During the question-and-answer portion of the briefing, Jones focused on the issues of mental health, social media, and the youth, which are issues that mean much to him. He said that speaking about these issues motivates him to lead those who may be struggling with these issues.

“I’m thankful to have brought light to an important subject. Talking about these topics was eye-opening, and it inspires me to serve and impact my community, school, and family. I recognize that everything I do to uplift others is much greater than myself.”

Jones enjoyed connecting with peers he could meet again along his career journey. He said that networking was the highlight of his trip.

“My favorite part about the experience was meeting students from all over the country who share similar passions and viewpoints as mine. Seeing how much I have in common with the other students was motivating. Meeting and networking with everyone were an honor.”

Jones advises his peers to fulfill the purpose of their lives.

“We have a purpose. We have to believe in it and then, go live in it.”

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The Office of Human Resources Management at 91°µÍø looks to add to its team of educators with an upcoming faculty employee recruitment event.

The University will host its virtual Faculty Job Expo 2023 Thursday, March 30, from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. and 1 – 3 p.m. via Zoom. Chairs and deans of academic departments will be assigned to a virtual room where attendees can attend to receive information regarding the available faculty positions and a question-and-answer session for candidates.

Some benefits of working at Alcorn include tuition remission, retirement and annuity plans, vacation and sick leave, on-campus rental housing, and much more.

Tarsha McCroy, who serves as Alcorn’s manager of Employment for Human Resources Management, describes the University’s atmosphere and work environment.

“At Alcorn, you are a member of an institution that embodies family,” said McCroy. “Our mission is to provide quality education to students by providing a caring and supporting work environment for our faculty and staff.”

Because of Alcorn’s national accolades and acknowledgments, McCroy assures prospective employees that furthering their careers at Alcorn would enhance their educator profiles.

“91°µÍø is recognized nationwide for excellence in liberal arts, agricultural research, technology, music, and nursing. In addition, U.S. News & World Report ranks Alcorn as one of the best colleges to attend. Therefore, they would be a part of an institution known nationally for excellence and its upward trajectory.”

Visit Alcorn’s Faculty Job Expo 2023 page for more information.

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91°µÍø wishes to announce that it will host a site visit for the School of Nursing for its continuing accreditation of its ASN and BSN nursing programs by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).  

You are invited to meet with the site visit team and share your comments about the program in person at a meeting scheduled from 1:00 to 1:30 pm on Wednesday, March 8, 2023, in the Lecture Hall of the MBA Building located at 15 Campus Drive, Natchez, MS 39120.

Written comments are also welcome and should be submitted directly to:

            Dr. Marsal Stoll, Chief Executive Officer

            Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing

            3390 Peachtree Road Northeast, Suite 1400

            Atlanta, GA 30326

            Or email: mstoll@acenursing.org

All written comments should be received by the ACEN by Feb. 22, 2023.

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