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°µÍř 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 morning ceremony begins at 9 a.m., with the procession starting at 8:45 a.m. That ceremony will honor graduates of the Golden Class, Graduate Studies, the College of Agriculture & Applied Sciences, and the School of Nursing. The afternoon ceremony begins at 1 p.m., procession at 12:45 p.m., and will recognize graduates of the College of Arts & Sciences, the School of Business, and the School of Education & Psychology.

Hall knows what it means to break barriers.

In March 2017, she became the first woman appointed commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Corrections. She served in that role through January 2020. While there, her focus was on rehabilitation and reentry programming that gave incarcerated individuals a path forward.

Hall spent years sharpening her legal and policy instincts in government service before stepping into the commissioner’s role.

She served as chief of staff for the Mississippi Department of Corrections from 2015 to 2017, as lead counsel for the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics from 2011 to 2015, and as a special assistant attorney general in the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office from 2008 to 2011.

Earlier in her career, she practiced law at Page, Kruger & Holland in Jackson, Mississippi, handling litigation across personal injury, employment discrimination, contract and insurance disputes, products liability, and general tort matters.

Today, Hall serves as executive vice president and chief regulatory officer for ViaPath Technologies. She oversees relationships with government entities and regulatory bodies at the local, state, and federal levels and guides policy initiatives aligned with the company’s mission. Hall joined ViaPath in 2020 as senior vice president for reentry and transitioned to senior vice president for government affairs in 2021.

She has more than 20 years of legal experience. Hall is admitted to practice in state and federal courts and began her legal career as a law clerk for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi and the Hinds County Circuit Court.

Hall was elected president of the Association of Women Executives in Corrections in October 2023. She was also elected president of the 91°µÍř National Alumni Association, a position she has held since January 2025.

She is active in the Mississippi Bar Association, National Bar Association, Magnolia Bar Association, Federal Bar Association, American Bar Association, American Correctional Association, National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, Correctional Leaders Association, and the Rotary Club of Jackson. In 2022, she was appointed a commissioner on the Veterans Justice Commission for the Council on Criminal Justice. Hall is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Her honors include the Girl Scouts of Greater Mississippi’s 2019 Women of Distinction Award, the Metro Jackson Black Women Lawyers Association’s 2017 Legal Trailblazer Award, the 2018 Leading Alcornites Under 50 distinction, the 2019 National Alumni Association Professional Achievement Award, and recognition as a Top Lobbyist and Influencer in the 2022 Lawyers of Color Caucus Issue. In May 2025, she was inducted into the Alcorn State National Alumni Association Hall of Honor.

Hall earned her Juris Doctor from Mississippi College School of Law and her Bachelor of Arts in political science/pre-law from 91°µÍř.

A native of Shubuta, Miss., she resides in Madison, Miss., and is a member of Anderson United Methodist Church. She is the daughter of the late Perry G. Everett and Patricia Everett.

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The office’s 50th-anniversary commemorative logo design was selected for this year’s Association of 1890 Research Directors (ARD) Symposium, held in New Orleans in March. The team’s logo, selected from a poll of 1890 land-grant university communications teams across the country, appeared on all symposium-related materials, including promotional pieces, signage, digital communications, and printed or electronic materials associated with the event. The digital contest was held during the symposium’s preparation.

The biennial ARD Symposium showcases research and scholarship from over 1,800 participants in 1890 land-grant institutions. The event provides a platform for researchers to connect, network, and showcase breakthroughs in agricultural research and innovation.

When presented with the opportunity to design the logo, the office’s two staff members, Dr. Vickey Williams, a communications specialist, and Larry Walker, a graphic reproductions specialist, jumped at the chance to test their skills.

“The logo competition was fun,” said Williams. “What started as us submitting one logo turned into us submitting two logos to be considered. It was a friendly internal competition that neither of us imagined would be chosen, considering the size of our office.”

Outperforming communications teams that outnumber them in staff and resources is a testament to the office’s collective talent.

“Larry created a design first, and that inspired me to create one as well,” said Williams. “It felt good to see that our little team of two is just as talented as other schools with a full communications team, large budget, and all this equipment at their disposal. Despite being a much smaller operation, we won because we believe in each other and the talent we bring to the table. Collectively, we are a powerhouse that can compete with the biggest schools and still win.”

The office’s admiration for each other’s work creates a healthy environment that fuels inspiration.

“It has been an honor to work alongside Dr. Williams on this project,” said Walker. “Her creativity is unmatched, which is why we work so well together. Her logo design is deserving of recognition, and it makes me proud to be a part of a team that focuses so much on attention to detail.”

Walker acknowledges Dr. Dexter Wakefield, dean of the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, for encouraging the agriculture communications team to dream big while positioning them to execute said dream.

“I’m also thankful for the leadership of Dr. Wakefield and his allowing us the liberty to create and uphold the standard of the college,” said Walker. “I’m confident that the best is yet to come for our communications department and the College.”

Accomplishing this creative feat makes Wakefield proud of his team and their mission to uphold the university’s standards.

“Winning this award is a reflection of positioning good and talented people in places to uphold the college’s vision and to show our standard,” said Wakefield. “They made this vision a reality, and now the 50th anniversary logo will be remembered and represented across the entire organization. This is a positive step toward our college’s strategic plan. I’m proud of our team’s work.”

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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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All events are free and open to the public.

The festival is one of the longest-running jazz festivals in Mississippi. It draws high school, community college, and university ensembles together for a full day of competitive performances, adjudication, and live music from world renowned artists.

“We look forward to welcoming you in Vicksburg for the 44th Annual ASU Jazz Festival,” said Dr. Ryan Stransky, 44th ASU Jazz Festival director. “This year will feature guest artist Kortland Whalum, a Memphis-based singer-songwriter who will deliver an energetic and powerful performance. Join us for a full day of high school and collegiate jazz bands.”

This year’s headliner is Kortland Whalum, a Memphis-based singer, songwriter, and actor whose credits span Broadway, Off-Broadway, and international touring with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.

The festival kicks off Thursday, April 23, with a 1 p.m. performance by the Mississippi National Guard 41st Army Band at Bolden Fine Arts — Little Theater on the Alcorn State campus in Lorman. The main festival day follows Saturday, April 25, at the Vicksburg Convention Center, with doors opening to the public at 11 a.m.

The full festival schedule runs from 11 a.m. to about 9 p.m. Ensemble performances begin at 11:15 a.m. An awards ceremony follows at 6 p.m., with Whalum’s headline set beginning at 7 p.m.

Six ensembles are scheduled to perform, representing institutions from Mississippi and Louisiana — Murrah High School FM 1400 Jazz Ensemble, Jackson, Miss.; Cleveland Central High School Jazz Ensemble, Covington High School Jazz Ensemble, Covington, La.; Hinds Community College Jazz Ensemble, Miles College Jazz Ensemble, and the 91°µÍř Jazz Ensemble.

“The ASU Jazz Festival is a tradition of excellence in music, jazz, and education,” Stransky said. “We join together with high school, community college, and university ensembles to showcase the talent and musicianship represented across the nation.”

Whalum is a graduate of Memphis’ Overton High School for the Performing Arts and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Morehouse College. He spent six years in New York City performing in Off-Broadway productions before returning to Memphis, where he served as Vocal Director at the Stax Music Academy and facilitated the 50th Anniversary Stax/Volt Tour across the United Kingdom and France. His theater credits include “Hello, Dolly!,” “Porgy & Bess,” “The Wiz,” “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,”among others. The Tennessee State Senate has honored him for his artistic contributions and cultural impact.

Whalum will be accompanied by a band of accomplished Memphis area musicians, including guitarist JB Brownlee, keyboardist and producer Terrence Brown, and bassist Henry Conerway III, a Detroit native who has performed at the Kennedy Center, the Toronto Jazz Festival, and Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola.

The ASU Jazz Festival has grown over four decades under the leadership of the Department of Fine Arts.

Dr. Russell Thomas Jr. founded the festival and also directed the Jazz Ensemble. Dr. David Miller, the longest-tenured festival director, built upon that foundation during his years leading both the festival and the ensemble. Dr. Sean Daniels later carried the tradition forward before the baton passed to Dr. Stransky.

The festival’s alumni stage reads like a who’s who of American jazz — Chick Corea, Branford Marsalis, McCoy Tyner, Max Roach, Ramsey Lewis, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Arturo Sandoval are among the legends who have performed in Vicksburg over the festival’s 44-year run. The 2025 festival featured the Louis Hayes Quintet.

The event is sponsored by River Hills Bank, ASU Foundation, Inc., JXN Metro Music, Alcorn State Southwest Mississippi Center for Culture and Learning, Alcorn State Division of Marketing and Communication, and the Alcorn State Division of Student Affairs.

For more information about the ASU Jazz Festival, contact the Department of Fine Arts at 601.877.6271 or to become a sponsor, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 601.877.6296.

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Today, the 2021 music graduate is doing all three on one of the most watched stages in American television.

Stallworth, a native of Moss Point, Miss., earned a Bachelor of Arts in music from Alcorn State in May 2021 and is currently competing on Season 24 of ABC’s “American Idol.”

When he is not before the judges, he teaches Pre-K through fifth-grade music in the Humble Independent School District in Houston, Texas.

“I believe this is a divine purpose for my life,” Stallworth said. “People always told me to audition, but it wasn’t a place I saw myself in reality. I stepped out on faith.”

Stallworth’s path from Alcorn’s campus to prime-time television runs through Mississippi.

Daniel Stallworth, a 2021 91°µÍř graduate and elementary music teacher, performs on the “American Idol” stage. Stallworth, a Moss Point, Miss., native, is competing in Season 9 of the ABC competition series. (Photo courtesy of American Idol/ABC)

After graduating, he began his teaching career in the Claiborne County School District, serving elementary students for four years before relocating to Houston.

The decision to audition for “American Idol” came during the current school year, a leap of faith rooted in a conviction he has carried since childhood.

“I realized at an early age that singing was more than something I loved,” he said. “I knew God had given me a gift to share with people, and I’m living my purpose.”

Stallworth chose Alcorn State not for its rankings or its rankings alone, but for something harder to quantify.

“91°µÍř is a family-oriented institution, and I felt the love during my first visit,” he said.

He credits several members of the faculty and staff for shaping the musician and educator he has become, naming Dr. Renardo Murray, Tony Gordon and Linda McDonald among those who pushed him toward his potential.

“They pushed me to be the best I could possibly be,” Stallworth said.

Daniel Stallworth, a 2021 91°µÍř graduate, shares a moment with “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest during Season 9 of the ABC competition series. Stallworth, a Moss Point, Miss., native and elementary music teacher, is representing Alcorn State on a national stage. (Photo courtesy of American Idol/ABC)

Among his most cherished memories was serving as musician and director of the ASU Gospel Choir (GC) and the trips the ensemble made together.

“[I had] so much fun with my GC family,” he said. “Those memories are never forgotten.”

The “American Idol” experience, Stallworth said, has been nothing short of remarkable. The pressure has been real but so has the affirmation.

“I believe I do well under pressure,” he said. “The feedback from the judges made me feel like my work is not in vain.”

Stallworth carries a message for current Alcorn students and anyone watching from back home in Mississippi — believe in yourself, operate in your gifts and never quit.

“If you don’t believe in yourself, you shouldn’t expect anyone else to believe in you,” he said. “Everyone has a gift and a purpose. Believe that you can do it, believe that you will do well, and always put your best foot forward.”

How to Vote for Daniel Stallworth

“American Idol” airs live Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on ABC and Disney+, with next-day streaming available on Hulu. Fans can cast up to 10 votes per voting method during each elimination round. Three ways to vote:

• Online: Visit americanidol.com/vote and search for Daniel Stallworth.
• Text: Text the number 4 to 21523.
• Social Media: Find the official American Idol pinned voting post on TikTok, Facebook or Instagram and comment “Daniel” under the post.

Alcorn State supporters are also encouraged to share the university’s social media posts celebrating Stallworth’s journey. Follow along and cheer him on!

The post From Alcorn to the Idol stage: Alumnus Daniel Stallworth competes on American Idol appeared first on 91°µÍř.

Gregory, a Jackson, Miss. native, joins Alcorn after serving as associate professor of graduate education and director of Ed.D. doctoral studies at Belhaven University.

Her career spans every major level of public schools from second grade teacher to elementary and high school administrator.

“I was drawn to 91°µÍř because of its legacy of preparing educators and leaders who make a meaningful impact in their communities,” Gregory said. “This role allows me to bring together my K–12 and higher education experiences to strengthen programs, support faculty, and positively influence students.”

As dean, Gregory oversees academic programs in education, health and physical education and recreation, and psychology.

Her immediate priorities include strategic faculty hiring, increasing enrollment across undergraduate and graduate programs, and improving student pass rates on licensure examinations.

She has also set her sights on launching graduate level psychology programs and an Ed.D. doctoral program.

“I have been intentional about listening, learning, and taking strategic action,” Gregory said. “Most importantly, I’ve felt a genuine sense of connection and purpose in this role. Alcorn truly feels like home.”

Gregory said her years in K–12 schools inform every decision she makes about curriculum and faculty development.

She expects Alcorn graduates to enter the workforce ready to manage classrooms, use data to guide instruction and demonstrate the professional conduct that sustains careers. These are what she calls the soft skills that travel across all professions.

“Treat students like they have your last name,” Gregory said, crediting advice from her mother as the foundation of her professional philosophy. “When we approach our work with that mindset, there is nothing we wouldn’t do to ensure students are supported and successful.”

Gregory said expanding graduate offerings will deepen the school’s contribution to Alcorn’s broader mission of community leadership. She envisions a school where working professionals can return for advanced degrees, micro-credentials and endorsements long after earning their first diploma.

Gregory earned a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Jackson State University and a Master of Education in elementary education from Belhaven University. She also holds an educational specialist degree in school administration and supervision and a Doctor of Education in educational leadership, both from Delta State University.

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The event has been hosted annually since the early 2000s. Since 2018, it has joined with Mississippi Association of Broadcasters Day and grown to include a Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society Induction Ceremony, a panel discussion featuring representatives from several of the state’s leading broadcast news and radio outlets, and a Media Day Awards Luncheon.

Maxine Greenleaf, vice president of marketing and communication at 91°µÍř, delivered the keynote address.

Drawing from nearly two decades of experience in higher education, Greenleaf has led communications and marketing teams at all three of Mississippi’s public four year HBCUs — 91°µÍř, Jackson State University and Mississippi Valley State University.

Maxine Greenleaf, 91°µÍř vice president of marketing and communication, speaks at the 2026 Mass Communications Media Day.

Greenleaf challenged students to set themselves apart in an increasingly competitive job market.

“I am convinced many of my experiences would not have happened anywhere else but an HBCU,” Greenleaf told the audience. “I have been in rooms I could only dream of thanks to these institutions.”

Greenleaf began her address with a media law lesson rooted in a high profile defamation case. She reminded students that not verifying information before publication carries legal and professional consequences.

She then pivoted to a candid personal testimony, one that traced a non linear path from Tougaloo College to television reporting to the executive ranks of HBCU higher education, to underscore a theme she returned to throughout her remarks.

“Your path will not always be a straight line,” she said. “You will have bumps in the road along your journey. You will have to pivot and adapt. How will you respond when challenges arise?”

Citing recent federal labor data, Greenleaf noted that the share of unemployed Americans who are new workforce entrants reached a 37-year high in 2025, making the question of professional differentiation more pressing than ever for graduating seniors.

“I completed three unpaid internships before I landed a paid internship,” Greenleaf said. “I took on other assignments to fine tune my skills so I could enhance my resume. How will you set yourself apart from the competition?”

Greenleaf closed her remarks by urging students to lean on their communities and embrace the expanded landscape available to today’s graduates.

“It took a village to help me get to where I am,” she said. “No one travels this road alone. Never be afraid to ask for help.”

The media panel drew professionals from across the Mississippi broadcast landscape, offering students direct access to working journalists, radio executives and media directors. Participants included Lee Eldridge, WJTV; Malcolm Innis, WTYJ; Lance Fuller, iHeart; Jon Pollard and Carly Winter, WDAM; RaMona Alexander, FOX40; Keaundria Milloy, WDAM and Alcorn alumna; Amanda Fontaine, executive director of the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters; and Crystal McDowell, One Voice.

Alcorn State mass communications students celebrate with trophies and certificates at the 2026 Media Day Awards Luncheon in Lorman, Miss.

Toni W. Terrett, Esq., assistant professor in the Department of Mass Communications, credited the event’s longevity to the consistent generosity of industry partners.

“We are so thankful for the members of MAB and other media professionals taking time out of their busy schedules to share their insight with our students,” Terrett said. “Media Day provides a unique learning and networking opportunity. Over the years, many students have left the event with job and internship offers. It is an invaluable experience.”

The Lambda Pi Eta Induction Ceremony, held from 9 to 10 a.m., welcomed one new member into the national communication studies honor society. Layken Meadows, a graduating senior from Amory, Miss., was inducted into Lambda Pi Eta. The MAB panel discussion followed from 10 to 11:30 a.m., with the awards luncheon concluding the program from noon to 1 p.m.

The Media Day Awards Luncheon recognized 13 students for their contributions to the department’s student media outlets. Award recipients and their honors are as follows —

Kenaysia Stanton, junior, Pascagoula, Miss. — Best Student Radio Show, Entertainment Editor

Parys Ward-Wheeler, sophomore, Atlanta, Ga. — Advice Column Editor, Best Overall Student Interviewer

Michael Williams II, junior, Harbor City, Calif. — Most Improved Radio Show

Asia Windham, sophomore, Collins, Miss. — Staff Writer, Best Diverse Radio Show

Quashondra Addison, graduating senior, McComb, Miss. — Staff Writer

A’Zariannne Johnson, graduating senior, Minden, La. — Lifestyle Editor

Lillian Cogdell, sophomore, Sumter, South Carolina — Poetry Editor

India Stenson, junior, Tallahassee, Fla. — Sports Editor

D’Anthony Lilly, sophomore, Brookhaven, Miss. — Staff Writer

Landon Badon, sophomore, Hattiesburg, Miss. — Staff Writer

Alanna Johnson, freshman — Word on the Street Editor

Naleah Fullilove, sophomore, Aurora, Colo. — Entertainment Editor

Demetrion Duvall, sophomore, Akron, Ohio — Staff Writer

Jamyiyah Cotten, senior, Jackson, Miss. — Human Interest Editor

Johnathan Stewart, senior, Virginia Beach, Va. — Editorial Editor

Greenleaf, a native of Itta Bena, Miss., began her career in communications as a weekend anchor and reporter at WXVT, a CBS affiliate in Greenville, Miss.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communication from Mississippi Valley State University and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication with a concentration in public relations from Kent State University.

Join the next generation of media professionals. Learn more about Mass Communication at 91°µÍř at .

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Dr. Girish Kumar Panicker honored among 16 scholars at inaugural Global Malayalee Festival in Kochi, India

An 91°µÍř professor whose conservation research reaches all 193 United Nations member countries has received an international honor from India’s Malayalee community for his contributions to agricultural science.

Dr. Girish Kumar Panicker, a professor of Plant and Soil Sciences and director of Conservation Research at Alcorn State, received the 2026 Global Ratna Jewel Award for Agricultural Science at the inaugural Global Malayalee Festival, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Kochi, India.

The Malayalee Festival Federation, a nonprofit organization registered in India, organized the two-day event as a gathering for Malayalees from around the world to celebrate global achievements, strengthen community bonds, and channel diaspora expertise toward Kerala’s development.

Business leaders, professionals, cultural figures, and community champions attended from across the globe.

A highlight of the festival was the presentation of the Global Malayalee Ratna Awards, honoring 16 distinguished Malayalees for contributions across business, science, engineering, finance, technology, politics, literature, arts, culture, and community service.

The award was presented to Panicker by Ambassador Dr. T.P. Srinivasan.

“Malayalees have excelled in every corner of the world,” said Andrew Pappachen, CEO of the Malayalee Festival Federation. “Our goal is to create a platform where ideas, investments, and innovations can flow freely for the benefit of our community.”

Panicker is an Alcorn alumnus who joined the university’s Center for Conservation Research in 1992 as a graduate student and has directed the program for more than three decades.

“It is an honor and privilege to acknowledge Dr. Panicker for this award,” said Dr. Dexter Wakefield, dean of Alcorn’s College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences. “The College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences proudly acknowledges this achievement and the global impact it represents. It is not only a testament to a lifetime of unwavering dedication to farmers and conservationists across continents, but also a reflection of the transformative work cultivated here at 91°µÍř.”

Established in 1988 through partnerships with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the USDA Agricultural Research Service, the center has built the world’s largest C-factor, cover and management, database for horticultural crops.

The database covers 45 crops and more than 140,000 readings, representing more than $6.5 million in federal investment.

As directed by the federal government, Panicker’s center has distributed its research data to all 193 United Nations member countries since 1996.

“The data supports erosion prediction, nutrient management, and conservation planning worldwide,” Panicker said.

Panicker released the first C-factor research technology in 2001, a 42-page publication archived in the Library of Congress and referenced at land grant universities and in graduate programs globally.

He has presented the technology in 27 countries as a speaker and keynote speaker.

In addition to soil conservation, Panicker’s research includes breakthroughs in blueberry production.

Panicker succeeded in increasing Vitamin C and anthocyanin levels through organic farming systems and developed a slow-release organic fertilizer from animal waste in collaboration with U.S. Army scientists. The fertilizer traps ammonia and prevents groundwater pollution.

Alcorn’s muscadine vineyard was selected by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service as the only vineyard for national soil health studies, placing Alcorn on the National Soil Health Map.

Panicker’s soil health research, conducted over more than 25 years, has been rated “Excellent” by Cornell University’s National Soil Health Lab. Cornell now uses Alcorn’s data to train visiting scientists from around the world.

Through federally funded programs, Panicker has trained more than 60 undergraduate and graduate students in conservation research.

Eleven of his former students have earned doctoral degrees.

He is a Certified Professional Agronomist, a Certified Crop Adviser, and a Fellow of the Mississippi Academy of Sciences.

His previous honors include the 2020 Lifetime Organic Achievement Award from the American Society of Agronomy and the 2023 International Conservation Research Award from the Soil and Water Conservation Society of America, among many others.

“I am blessed to receive this award,” Panicker said. “I am an alumnus of Alcorn, and I am glad that I could take Alcorn around the globe.”

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