“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����.”

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 event featured 10 of the nation’s top HBCU marching bands in a thrilling exhibition of musical artistry and showmanship.

The band opened its show with a high-energy drill to Michael Jackson’s classic hit, “Off the Wall.” The performance continued with a dynamic transition into a field formation that spelled out “ALCORN” as the band played an Alcorn State classic, “It’s Real Real” by James Ingram. The World-Renowned Golden Girls, recognized as a top danceline among HBCU bands, dazzled the crowd during a featured performance to Beyoncé’s “America Has a Problem.”

“This performance was a great start to what will be a memorable season for the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite, and it was a joy to see our students perform on this stage,” said Dr. Everson Martin, director of bands. “We are proud to see HBCU culture and a love of the arts at an all-time high, and it is a privilege to contribute to that legacy.”

The band’s impressive field show resonated with fans, who later voted the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite as number one in the HBCU Band Poll: Who Won the Labor Day Classic Battle of the Bands? poll, sponsored by hbcusports.com. While the event was an exhibition with no official winner, the poll allowed attendees to voice their opinions on the best performance of the night.

“This was my first time performing with a collegiate band, and it was an unforgettable experience,” said Alexander Thomas of New Orleans, La., a freshman music education major. “To be able to represent Alcorn and contribute to the legacy of the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite in front of such an amazing crowd felt incredible.”

The lineup of bands included Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Talladega College, Alabama A&M, Langston University, Alabama State, Grambling State, Mississippi Valley State, Southern University, and Jackson State.

The Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite’s participation marked its first time in the classic, and the band’s presence began a season that will culminate in a historic performance at the 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.

Donations to the band’s March to Macy’s fundraiser can still be made at .

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The HBCU Labor Day Classic, which has historically drawn over 50,000 attendees and generated an economic impact exceeding $5 million, promises an unforgettable cultural celebration of music, tradition, and community.

“We’re incredibly excited to showcase the talent and dedication of the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite on such a prominent stage,” said Dr. Everson Martin, director of bands. “We’re truly honored to participate alongside so many other outstanding HBCU band programs.”

The art of HBCU marching band goes far beyond just playing instruments; it’s a dynamic fusion of intricate drill formations, precise choreography, and a powerful, unique sound that resonates with audiences. Achieving this level of performance requires countless hours of practice and meticulous preparation long before the first note is played on the field.

“With the HBCU Labor Day Classic just a few months away, our focus right now is on meticulously preparing our show for band camp,” Martin added. “We’re making sure everything is in place so that when our students return, they’re ready to hit the ground running with practices.”

The day’s events begin at noon with the HBCU Labor Day Classic Fanfest, a free-with-RSVP tailgate featuring vendors, music, food, high school and collegiate step teams, majorettes, dance crews, giveaways, and special celebrity guests. Gates to the stadium open at 5 p.m., followed by a Parade of Bands at 5:30 p.m. The main event, the Battle of the Bands, will kick off promptly at 6 p.m., as each of the 10 bands takes the field to showcase their best drills, signature sounds, and school pride.

For the first time, the entire event will be streamed live on Urban Edge Network’s (UEN) free streaming platform, providing global access and historic visibility for HBCU marching band culture.

The participating bands include:��

• Alabama A&M University – The Marching Maroon and White Band��
• Alabama State University – The Mighty Marching Hornets��
• 91���� – The Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite Marching Band
• Grambling State University – The World-Famed Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band��
• Jackson State University – The Sonic Boom of the South��
• Langston University – Marching Pride Band��
• Mississippi Valley State University – The Mean Green Marching Machine��
• Southern University – The Human Jukebox��
• Talladega College – The Great Tornado Band��
• University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff – The Marching Musical Machine of the Mid-South

To purchase tickets and to learn more about the event, visit .

Adding to an already exciting year, the 91���� Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite Marching Band is also set to make an appearance at the 2025 Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City.

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Every year, Humanities Teacher of the Year award recipients are selected by nominations from their respective college or university presidents or department deans. Each institution chooses a faculty member to represent it. The Mississippi Humanities Council recognizes these recipients at its annual awards ceremony.

Tolliver-Cook will present “Service to Others: A Christian Perspective on Social Work Values” on March 6, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. in Dumas Hall Auditorium, Room 107.

The presentation will explore the intersection of Christian teachings and social work values, focusing on service to others. Refreshments will be served.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and to share my passion for integrating faith and social work values with the Alcorn community,” said Dr. Tolliver-Cook.

Dr. Babu P. Patlolla, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of biology, said, “I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Tolliver-Cook on receiving the Humanities Teacher Award for 2025. Her contribution as the department chair and faculty creates an enriching academic atmosphere at the department level and an overall experience for students at the university.”

Dr. Patlolla added, “Having a humanities teacher award winner on your team enhances the educational experience, contributing to improved student outcomes. These outcomes can include higher retention rates, better assessment performance, and increased student satisfaction. Dr. Tolliver-Cook, a faculty member, mentors students and fosters a supportive community.”

Tolliver-Cook earned a doctorate in education from Jackson State University in 2010, as well as a bachelor’s and master’s in social work from the same institution. She is a licensed social worker and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers.��

“My passion and strong desire to share my knowledge and experiences with the next generation of social workers and my responsibility to make a difference in this world,” Tolliver-Cook said, regarding what drew her to education. “I truly love being a part of a team of professionals that wholeheartedly supports and encourages both students and faculty to achieve greatness at Alcorn.”

Reflecting on learning of her honor, Tolliver-Cook shared, “I felt blessed and highly favored. I also felt an overwhelming sense of pride, gratitude, and joy, not only for myself but for all who have supported me over the years, including administration, faculty, staff, students, and especially my late mother, Catherine Washington, and my husband, Rev. Dr. Andrew Cook. The support, prayers, and daily encouragement I received from them all have always inspired me to strive for excellence. It was a moment of celebration for all my hard work and dedication.”

Since 2012, she has been a full-time faculty member at 91����, instructing students within the departments of Social Work and Human Sciences, work she consistently finds meaningful and worthwhile.

“I hope to leave behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and empowerment in students,” Tolliver-Cook said regarding the impact she hopes to leave on her students. “I want them to understand the profound impact they can have on individuals, families, and communities and carry forward the belief that every person deserves dignity, worth, and respect. My hope is that they embrace the challenge with courage, faith, and perseverance despite the obstacles they may face. I hope they remain lifelong learners committed to making a difference in the world.”

“I am grateful!” she added.

Tolliver-Cook and other recipients will be recognized at an awards gala on Friday, March 28, in Jackson, Miss.

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Alcorn’s Office of Admissions and Recruiting will host the 2024 Fall High School and Transfer Day on Saturday, Sept. 14, at 10 a.m. at the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex.

The registration fee for this year’s event is $25. Registration closes Sept. 10.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for high school and transfer students to explore all that 91���� has to offer,” said De`Martinez` Simmons, interim director of Admissions and Recruiting. “We are thrilled to open our doors and provide a preview of our academic programs, campus life, and the vibrant community that awaits them.”

The recruiting event will feature various activities designed to give attendees a firsthand look at what makes Alcorn unique. Participants will have the chance to —

• Learn more about our cutting-edge undergraduate academic programs,
• Enjoy our beautiful campus and find out more about student life, and
• financial aid options at Alcorn.

“This event is not just about showcasing our programs but also about building connections,” Simmons added. “We want prospective students to feel informed and inspired as they consider the next steps in their educational journey.”

Students and their families will be able to Catch the Braves Football team and the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite and Golden Girls in action as they take on Edward Waters University at 4:00 p.m.

All interested students and their families can register for the event by visiting or contacting the Admissions Office at 601-877-6148.

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The event was part of the 2nd Annual Doctoral Leadership Conference Gala hosted by the Doctoral Leadership Initiative.

President Cook provided words of encouragement to students pursuing doctoral degrees.

“Completing your doctoral program is about endurance,” said Cook. “If you start it, you must complete it. Once you complete it, you enter an elite group of individuals. Only 2% of the United States population holds a doctoral degree. Completing this task will set the tone for the rest of your journey.”

He reminded the group to begin to focus on their next steps.

“You have to develop relationships early on,” said Cook. “You never know; it may be an opportunity for you later. You are being interviewed daily by how you carry yourself.”

Cook shared a personal story about his grandmother and the importance of paying it forward.

“My grandmother used to cook dinner on Sundays right before we went to church service at 11:00. Dinner used to be finished before 11:00. But on that Monday, she would give the leftovers to the needy. One day, I asked her why she was always feeding all of these people. And her reply was simple. So you can receive the blessings.”

He advised attendees on key characteristics of leadership.

“Be a servant leader. It’s important that you learn how to balance your personal life and your professional life. You have to learn to adapt, adjust, and be flexible to what life will throw at you.”

He continued, “You have to be a lifelong learner. Best practices change each and every day. You’ve got to constantly adapt yourself to what life throws at you. You have to develop mental toughness and manage stress well.”

Other honorees at the event included Dr. Shannon Anderson, curriculum coordinator and professor; Dr. Elaine H. Anthony, former acting president, chair, and full professor, Journalism and Media Studies, Jackson State University; Dr. Ebonee Magee Dorsey, education and supervision, Lawrence County School District; Dr. Tonyatta Hairston, founder and optometrist, EnVision; Dr. Roderick Henderson, superintendent, Brookhaven School District; Dr. Rosie J. Payton, education and leadership consultant, Greenleaf Consulting; Dr. James H. Young III, associate professor of education and dean of Doctoral Studies, Belhaven University; Dr. Jennifer Young Wallace, associate professor and coordinator of Doctoral Education Leadership, Jackson State University.

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The ceremony began with a processional of officials, followed by a rendition of the national anthem and the invocation.��The audience was then addressed by honored��guest speaker Major General Michael J. Talley, chief of staff and deputy commanding general,��United States Army Medical Command and Chief,��Medical Service Corps.

Maj. Gen. Talley expressed his pride in the cadets he coined “The Great 8.”��Elaborating on each student’s impressive credentials, as well as��humorous anecdotes of his personal experiences with them, he encouraged the��families of the��cadets to be proud of their accomplishments. Acknowledging military families, as well as��the surprise and fear of families who learn that their beloved scholars want to “jump from planes” as a career, Maj.��Gen. Talley emphasized that service is indeed a noble honor.

“We’re in our 50th year in the United States Military as an all-volunteer force,” he said. “Less than 1% of our country make the commitment that our soon-to-be lieutenants are about to make here today,” he said. “They are about to join a team of teams. They’ve taken on something��that is��bigger than themselves.”

Maj. Gen. Talley encouraged the cadets to listen to the words of their oath, expressing that they are, of their own volition,��pledging allegiance to a set of ideals based on loyalty, duty, respect, and personal courage.��He emphasized the importance of integrity and strength of character that they must possess in their new leadership roles.

“You’ll be in charge of 30 men and women. Some of them are older than you. Some have families. Don’t ask them to do anything that you would not do. If it’s cold and raining, and they’ve got to dig a foxhole, guess what? You get right out there with them.��We lead from the front, and we suffer the��hardships��the��same.��They will love you if you show that commitment and care.”

Dr. Tracy Cook, 21st president of 91����, formally received the recommendation of Lt. Col. Jackey Fortenberry, professor of military science, to commission the students. “I take great pride in their achievements and commend them for reaching this milestone,” he said.

Afterward, the commissioning began. Students were pinned by their family members and loved ones and received their first salute from a non-commissioned officer. President Cook and Lt. Col. Fortenberry then presented them with accolades.

Cadets who were commissioned during the spring ceremony are��Cedric Brown Jr.,��an animal science major from Jackson, Miss.;��Vanessa Washington,��a biology��– pre-medicine major from Little Rock, Ark.;��Kiesha Lewis, a biology major from Hazlehurst, Miss.;��Terrell White, a criminal justice major, is a native of Fort Myers, Fla.,��DeAnna Sanders, a native of Starkville Miss. and a homeland security management major;��Vernetta Hopkins, a senior criminal justice major from Memphis, Tenn.,��Melik Taylor, a psychology major from Jackson, Miss., and��Rayiah Buie��from Hazelhurst, Miss., majoring in biology – pre-med.

As the ceremony closed,��Dr. Cook addressed the newly commissioned lieutenants and their families.

“We’re really going to miss you,” he said to the graduating commissioned officers. “We’re going to need you to send us more students like you.”

“To the parents and loved ones, thank you for supporting 91����.”

He concluded by expressing gratitude to Maj. Gen. Tally.

“Thank you for your visit here. Don’t let this be your last visit. You’re always welcome where the grass is greener, the air is cleaner, and the water is just a little bit sweeter,”��he��said as the audience of faculty, staff, students, and alumni joined in��stating��the familiar refrain.

Army ROTC is the largest officer-producing organization in the American military, with over 600,000 men and women having earned commissions through the program.

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The Indianapolis, Ind. native��has a passion for��innovating and turning ideas into reality. She will soon begin��her journey��to earn a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in entrepreneurship from the Georgia State University Robinson School of Business.��

During her time at Alcorn, Burton was actively involved in various extracurricular activities, including serving as the secretary of the Campus Activity Board and the former vice president of the National Association of Black Journalists. She was also a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Honors Society, Lambda Pi Eta, NAACP, and the Junior Class Cabinet, where she previously held the position of community service chairperson.

One of the most memorable experiences at Alcorn was participating in an advertising competition.��

“I participated in an advertising competition with the American Advertising Federation; it��really��allowed me to use my creative side with my fellow students and almost felt like an outline for a business plan,” said Burton.

Burton’s future career goal is to become a television news anchor, and she believes that pursuing a Master of Business Administration will help her build a deeper connection with people.

Reflecting on her time at 91����, Burton credits Toni Terrett, an assistant professor��in��mass communications,��who had a significant impact on��her decision to pursue entrepreneurship.��

“She inspired me to be a leader, to get involved, and to not let my talent go to waste,” said Burton.

When asked about her advice for current undergraduates considering further education in business, Burton encourages them to seize the opportunity.��

“The sky is the limit. We need people who look like us to create more and, most importantly, have ownership,” she emphasized.

Burton plans to apply the knowledge and skills she gains from her MBA program to benefit her community and society��at large.��

“I owe society service, and that is what I plan to offer,” she stated.

Looking ahead to her studies at Georgia State University’s Robinson School of Business, Burton is excited about the growth and new connections she will form.

Upon completing her MBA, Burton has several entrepreneurship ventures and projects in mind that she hopes to pursue.

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This event is free and open to the family and friends of the Class of 2024 and the University community.

“Baccalaureate is an opportunity for Alcorn graduates to express gratitude and praise to God for their victory against great odds,” said Dr. C.J. Rhodes, director of Religious and Spiritual Life and the Hiram Rhodes Revels Institute for Ethical Leadership. “Dr. Kia Conerway, a young preacher and HBCU grad whose leadership impact is felt from Memphis to the White House, will certainly inspire continued God-graced bravery for the Spring Class of 2024.”

Conerway is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University, the University of Chicago, and Memphis Theological Seminary.

With nearly two decades of experience shaping strategies for churches, politicians, and non-profits in the South, she has become known for her expertise in fundraising and consulting. She has successfully raised funds for multiple church launches and the three largest churches in the Mid-South.

As founding pastor of the Church at the Well, Conerway has overseen significant growth, enabling nearly $300,000 in mission funding. Her doctoral work, which raised nearly $500,000 in a single weekend, highlights her skills in consulting for health disparity programs.

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Nearly 400 graduates will receive associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degrees.

“Montell Jordan’s remarkable journey as a musical artist and now pastor is a testament of perseverance and commitment,”��said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president.��“These are key attributes our graduates will need along their��journey. We look forward to welcoming Mr. Jordan back to the Alcorn campus as he��provides words of encouragement to��our graduates.”

Montell��Jordan��is an author, pastor, Grammy Award-winning artist, and recipient of the 2023 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.

In 1995, along with artists such as Coolio, TLC, and Madonna,��Montell��Jordan’s breakout hit “This Is How We Do It”��was a chart-topping success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Top Ten Singles for seven weeks and the R&B charts for eight. Over his nearly twenty-year music career, he produced seven studio albums and 14 singles, ultimately selling over 10 million records worldwide.

As a student at Pepperdine University in Malibu,��Montell��was set to attend law school when a professor told him his biggest regret was missing his chance to pursue music.��Montell��realized,��in a flash, that if he was ever going to get��a chance��to pursue music on the level he wanted, he had to move forward with his dream.��He recorded a demo tape that made its way to Def Jam Records Founder Russell Simmons. “This Is How We Do It”��took off, and the first of many��number one��records was created.

Montell��began to realize the difference between his gift and calling.��He was gifted as a musician, but he was called to minister.��Speaking, teaching, mentoring, counseling, and writing��are ways��Jordan��fulfills his ministry purpose today.��After serving as an executive pastor for Victory Church in Norcross, Ga., for nearly a decade, he now has a marriage ministry with his wife, Kristin, where they assist public marriages��to��heal��in private.��Their ministry, Marriage Masterpeace, is a 501c3.����Montell��and Kristin also pastor a virtual church called Master Peace Church that launched November 6, 2022, and streams live every��Sunday at 11 a.m.��and��6 p.m. EST.

Montell��has written two books – “Becoming Unfamous”��which is��his autobiography, and “This Is How We Do It! Making Your Marriage A Masterpeace”��which he co-authored with his wife, Kristin.��Throughout his musical career,��Montell��had already shown an ability to stretch boundaries of genre and style and uses this same ability to influence, impact, and inspire today.��Montell��brings the word of God and personal experience from the music business to provide a practical and applicable understanding of music and worship��to light.��He still performs on world tours and loves��to bring��the love of Christ outside the��four walls of the church to concert venues all over the world.����Montell��is a Champion Ambassador for Special Olympics North America and a public speaker on��topics related to��diversity, equity, and inclusion.

For more information about the Spring 2024 Commencement ceremonies, please visit alcorn.edu/commencement/.

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