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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A total of 459 President’s Scholars and 1,033 Dean’s Scholars were recognized across the spring and fall 2025 semesters.

Students who earned a 4.0 grade point average within a single semester received the President’s Scholar distinction, while those who earned a 3.5 to 3.99 GPA received the Dean’s Scholar distinction.

The convocation was hosted by the Myrlie Evers-Williams Honors Program, named for the civil rights activist and former NAACP board chair who attended Alcorn, where she met the late Medgar Evers.

Evers-Williams was appointed Alcorn scholar-in-residence in 2013. The interdisciplinary liberal arts program recruits intellectually curious and socially conscious scholars for a lifetime of justice advocacy and servant leadership.

Dr. Wandra Arrington, director of the Myrlie Evers-Williams Honors Program, presided over the convocation.

“This event motivates others to continue their academic pursuits,” Arrington said. “Keep working hard to achieve great things.” The days that you don’t feel like doing what you need to do, get up and do them anyway. Always keep your word so that you have it even if you don’t have anything else.”

Judge Deborah McDonald of the Mississippi Court of Appeals delivered the keynote address. McDonald represents District 2, Position 1.

“My advice to all students is to  persevere and don’t let anything stop you,” McDonald said. “No one is perfect and no one should expect to be perfect. The days that you don’t feel like doing what you need to do, get up and do them anyway. Always keep your word so that you have it even if you don’t have anything else.”

The Fayette, Mississippi, native was elected in 2018, and has served since 2019. Her current term continues through 2027.

McDonald earned a Bachelor of Arts in social science education graduating summa cum laude from 91°µÍř and a Juris Doctor from the University of Mississippi School of Law. During her time at Ole Miss Law, she served on the Moot Court Board.

She began her career as staff attorney, managing attorney and executive director over nine years with Southwest Mississippi Legal Services in McComb, Miss. In this role, she provided services to underserved communities across the region.

In 1991, McDonald entered private practice. where she served as lead counsel in landmark cases that expanded Black legislative representation in Mississippi.

McDonald served as municipal judge for the city of Fayette for 23 years, attorney for Jefferson County Hospital & Nursing Home for 24 years, city attorney for Port Gibson for nearly seven years and board attorney for Hazlehurst School District for three years.

Her bar admissions include all Mississippi state and federal courts, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Court.

She received the Mississippi Association for Justice Women’s Caucus Lifetime Service Award in June 2025, recognizing 37 years of service in the legal field.

McDonald is a member of the Mississippi Bar Association and the Magnolia Bar Association and previously served on the board of the Mississippi Association for Justice. She is the mother of one son, Tahrik McClellan, and a member of East Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Lorman, Miss.

Dr. Sandra Barnes, associate provost for undergraduate education and student success,  also reflected on the occasion.

“Pursuing excellence is not just about grades; it’s a way of life,” Barnes said. “Students should continue to pursue excellence no matter what they do, no matter where they are.”

For a full list of President and Dean’s List Scholars, click here.

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Dr. Debarshi Roy, an associate professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, served as a panelist at HBCU STEAM Day 2026, hosted annually by U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, D-N.C., co-founder of the Bipartisan HBCU Congressional Caucus.

The event was held March 25 at the U.S. Capitol Complex in Washington, D.C.

Roy participated in a session titled “Faculty Experience & Grant Competitiveness — What Now?” focused on research growth, research and development infrastructure and institutional pathways toward sustained research classification advancement.

He was selected for his background in securing federal grants and contributions to Alcorn State’s research program.

Being recognized by Congresswoman Adams was “both humbling and deeply meaningful,” said Roy, adding that her acknowledgment showed that Alcorn State’s work is “relevant at the national policy level.”

“This invitation reflects a clear trajectory,” Roy said. “91°µÍř is emerging as a growing research institution. Our faculty are increasingly visible in national conversations; our research work is recognized as contributing to innovation, workforce development, and equity in STEM. It signals that 91°µÍř is not just participating but leading in key areas like AI integration and health disparities research.”

He said he hoped lawmakers left the session understanding that HBCUs are “engines of innovation” that can help strengthen the nation’s scientific and technological workforce with equitable federal support.

Roy has worked at Alcorn for eight years.

During his time at the university, his research has focused on cancer biology, health disparities and the integration of artificial intelligence into biomedical research and education.

His federal grant portfolio includes a pilot project on AI and machine learning tools for chronic disease self-management, funded through the AIM-AHEAD Program — a national initiative to increase participation in AI-driven biomedical research. A collaboration with LSU Shreveport, the project produced community-focused AI literacy modules and engaged underserved populations across the region.

Roy’s broader grant work has funded curriculum transformation, faculty training and cross-institutional collaboration reaching hundreds of Alcorn State students, equipping them with AI and data science skills for careers in biotechnology and biomedical science.

Roy notes that the largest barrier facing HBCU faculty is not a shortage of ideas but structural inequity.

Faculty members often carry heavier teaching loads, have limited grant-writing support and fewer established research networks than their counterparts at predominantly white institutions.

On the question of policy, Roy was direct — sustained federal support for HBCU research capacity, he said, would matter most.

“[We need] dedicated, sustained federal funding streams specifically for HBCU research capacity building,” said Roy. “Not just project based grants, but infrastructure funding, long-term faculty development, collaborative opportunity, grant-writing and administrative support. This would create equity in opportunity, not just competition.”

Roy’s panel appearance came at a key moment for Alcorn State.

The university is actively working toward a higher research classification.

His grant work directly advances that goal by increasing external funding and expanding research participation, among several other required metrics.

Roy said Alcorn State’s identity as a land-grant HBCU shapes his research in a fundamentally applied direction — using AI to address health disparities, integrating it into biological sciences, agriculture and rural health care access, and ensuring underserved communities are not left behind as the digital economy accelerates.

Roy stated that students at HBCUs do not need to leave their institutions to do cutting edge work, and urges them to engage in research early, build data skills and seek mentorship.

“Their backgrounds are strengths, not limitations,” said Roy.

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King, director of the MS Small Business Development Center @ 91°µÍř, 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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Daryl Hammett, director of global delivery for AI platforms and security at Amazon Web Services and an Alcorn alumnus, delivered the keynote address and announced an unrestricted $26,000 donation to the university.

“Standing here today as an alumnus is one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Hammett, who earned a master’s degree at Alcorn. “I walked this very stage, I sat in those very stands.”

Hammett, who leads seven global teams at AWS focused on delivery, product solutions, innovations and security operations, paid tribute to his mother, a 1970 Alcorn graduate and the university’s first female industrial technology graduate, who was unable to walk during her own commencement due to financial struggles.

He told graduates his mother provided funds for him to return to school after he had dropped out and was working two jobs.

“You crossed this stage today at a time of tremendous change,” Hammett said. “91°µÍř has already prepared you for the unknown. Our history is built on navigating uncertainty with strength.”

Following his address, Dr. Joyce Buckner-Brown, provost and vice president for academic affairs, presented Hammett with Alcorn’s highest degree, the Doctor of Humane Letters.

The ceremony also honored 61 members of the Class of 2000, marking their 25th anniversary. The class became the first 25th anniversary class to establish a scholarship endowment, presenting $13,466.42 to the 91°µÍř Foundation, Inc.

The check was presented by Dr. Marcus D. Ward, senior vice president for institutional advancement and executive director of the ASU Foundation  Inc., who is also a Class of 2000 member.

Hammett said the class inspired his donation, which doubled their contribution.

ArShayla Johnson, a Vicksburg native who graduated summa cum laude with a degree in English literature, received the Student Award of Excellence. The award includes $5,000 from the ASU Foundation.

“After graduation, I plan on continuing my education as I strive to obtain my master’s degree while also building a career that empowers future students and communities,” said Johnson.

Dr. Tracy M. Cook, Alcorn State president, told graduates to remain connected to the university.

“Stay focused, be great, remember the people who supported you, give back and don’t forget your beloved 91°µÍř,” Cook said.

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Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders demonstrate noteworthy support for Fulbright exchange participants and encourage administrators, faculty, and students at HBCUs to engage with Fulbright on campus. The Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders initiative highlights HBCU alumni and faculty excellence, as well as HBCUs as a destination for international students and scholars.

“Alcorn State is honored to receive the Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader designation for four consecutive years,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president. “This collaboration has enhanced international perspectives and engagement within the Alcorn community. The university values the Fulbright Program and its contribution to campus life and the opportunities it provides for faculty, staff, and students.”

The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international educational exchange program. Since its inception in 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided nearly 450,000 talented and accomplished students, scholars, teachers, artists, and professionals, of all backgrounds and in all fields, the opportunity to study, teach, and conduct research abroad. Fulbrighters exchange ideas, build people-to-people connections, and work to address complex global challenges. Fulbright is a program of the U.S. Department of State, with funding provided by the U.S. Government. Participating governments and host institutions, corporations, and foundations around the world also provide direct and indirect support to the Program.

“91°µÍř continues to benefit from its engagement with the prestigious Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) Program, which brings emerging scholars from around the world to U.S. campuses,” said Dr. Byron Johnson professor and director of global programs. Through the Office of Global Programs, the University has expanded access to less commonly taught languages, including Portuguese, German, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, and Russian. This year, Alcorn proudly welcomes two FLTAs — one from Brazil, who will instruct in Portuguese, and one from Taiwan, who will instruct in Mandarin Chinese. Their presence not only strengthens the University’s academic offerings but also enhances its global profile by fostering cross-cultural understanding and broadening the perspectives of faculty, staff, and students.”

Learn more about the Fulbright Program at , including .

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Heidelberg’s family history at Alcorn dates back to the Dunbar family. His mother, Naundra Lyon-Heidelberg, a 1994 Alcorn graduate and the university’s director of student engagement, his father, his great-grandmother, and two brothers also attended the university. His brother, Voshon Heidelberg, recently graduated in 2023, and his other brother, Vonterrius Heidelberg, is currently pursuing his master’s degree.

Although Voston chose to attend North Carolina A&T State University for his undergraduate studies, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness with a minor in supply chain management, he knew his educational journey was not complete without experiencing Alcorn.

Voston’s connection to the university is rooted in his childhood, as he grew up attending homecomings and football games at the university. “They say the air is a little bit cleaner down there,” said Heidelberg. “It’s always been in my heart.”

(Picture: Voston Heidelberg, Naundra Lyon-Heidelberg ’94, Victor Heidelberg)

Coming from a Mississippi lineage, Voston understands the broad and often overlooked impact of agriculture on daily life. That was what led him to choose his undergraduate degree. “People don’t think about it on a daily basis, but agriculture is connected to so many things,” Voston said. “The clothes we wear, the food we eat, the products we use. It all comes from agriculture.”

His mother, Naundra, a 1994 Alcorn graduate and the university’s director of student engagement, was excited when she learned about his decision.

“I am ecstatic that Voston has chosen 91°µÍř as his secondary education platform,” she said. “It warms my heart to know that he has carried the generational legacy, and I can’t wait to see his end results.”

When she learned of his decision, Mrs. Lyon-Heidelberg said she felt the program was perfectly aligned with his undergraduate studies.

Alcorn’s STEM MBA program incorporates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into a traditional business curriculum, equipping students with the interdisciplinary skills needed to succeed at the intersection of business and STEM fields. The program’s coursework covers areas such as finance, marketing, operations, strategy, and entrepreneurship, with specialized STEM-focused concentrations.

“The ambiance and friendliness of Alcorn are unmatched,” said Voston. “It’s a family-oriented place, and I knew that if I didn’t attend Alcorn for undergrad, it would have to be for something else. I am excited to be a part of the history of this program and to show others that graduating from a STEM MBA program at an HBCU in one year is possible.”

Heidelberg chose Alcorn’s accelerated STEM MBA program after conversations with Dr. Joyce Buckner-Brown, provost and vice president for academic affairs, and Dr. Antwon Woods, who both impressed him with their leadership and the program’s unique structure.

“The real beauty is coming to an HBCU that your family has gone to, and you meet professors, office workers, and other students who have gone through the same process of generational legacy just as you have,” said Naundra. “I just hope that people understand that because you’ve gone to another university to complete a degree, there’s no reason why you cannot continue your legacy at the same universities, especially historical black colleges that your parents, grandparents, or great grandparents have gone to as well.”

Voston advises future students to be trailblazers and take advantage of all the opportunities and funding available to them. “You can’t sit back and expect these things to fall into your lap; you have to be hungry and go get these things,” Voston said.

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91°µÍř has been recognized among the nation’s leading historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in a new ranking by Niche.

Niche ranks Alcorn No. 2 on its 2026 list of the “Best HBCU Schools in America.” Alcorn was included among 74 HBCUs in the national ranking.

The university is the only HBCU in Mississippi in the top 10 listing. Alcorn received an A minus overall Niche grade.

According to its website, Niche’s 2026 “Best Colleges” rankings reflect rigorous analysis of factors relating to academics, campus experience, value, diversity, housing, athletics and post-graduation outcomes.

“This recognition highlights Alcorn’s continued commitment to the pursuit of academic excellence,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president of 91°µÍř. “Throughout the year, we’ve been intentional and strategic about our investments in the university’s academic infrastructure to improve student success.”

Cook continued, “This is a team effort, and I would like to thank our students, faculty, staff, and alumni for their contributions to making achievements like this possible. Not only does it reinforce the value of an Alcorn education, but it also demonstrates that we are preparing our graduates for their future careers.”

Data sources include vetted federal datasets from the U.S. Department of Education and the National Science Foundation, as well as enrollment, graduation and alumni earnings statistics, tuition and financial aid information, and more than 1 million college reviews from real students and alumni.

“We built Niche to help students and families cut through the noise and make informed choices,” said Luke Skurman, founder and CEO of Niche. “Our rankings are designed to reflect not just data, but the real voices and lived experiences of students across the country. That blend of insight is what makes Niche unique. We’re giving students the clarity to identify the colleges where they see themselves belonging and succeeding.”

To see the full 2026 rankings, visit Niche’s listing.

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$9.1 million in grants will be made through the program to seven universities and colleges. Alcorn State will receive $1.15 million to train individuals in southwest Mississippi on digital literacy and artificial intelligence fundamentals.

“This grant represents a transformative opportunity for Mississippi, our region, and 91°µÍř as we work to build bridges, provide access, and expand our state’s workforce,” said Dr. Tracy M. Cook, president of Alcorn State. “MAI-TAP provides a pathway to empower rural communities with the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing global economy and the skills to not just keep pace, but lead. I would like to thank Dr. La Shon Brooks and her team for their hard work and commitment to this project.”

MAI-TAP is an initiative centered around developing artificial intelligence, machine learning, and related technical capacities at the state’s higher education institutions.

Alcorn’s Building Readiness and Advancing Valuable Education and Skills in Innovation, Technology, and AI (BRAVES-ITA) Program will work to address critical digital equity gaps in Mississippi’s underserved communities through a comprehensive initiative targeting Claiborne, Jefferson, Warren, and Adams counties.

“BRAVES-ITA is a bridge to expanding economic opportunities for community growth in an evolving digital age,” said Dr. La Shon Brooks, director of economic development and community engagement. “With this grant, 91°µÍř is advancing its land-grant mission by delivering cutting-edge AI education directly to the people, using creative, tech-enabled solutions. When individuals gain the skills to access telehealth or earn a certificate, we’re not just changing a life—we’re fueling community transformation at the forefront of inclusive AI workforce development.”

This grant positions 91°µÍř as Mississippi’s leading rural AI workforce development hub, reinforcing our role as a driver of innovation in community-engaged learning.

“By expanding faculty expertise and strengthening partnerships with organizations like AWS, we will create hands-on AI learning experiences for students and build long-term institutional capacity,” said Brooks.

This funding will also allow for the deployment of telehealth resources through ASU’s School of Nursing to improve healthcare access to underserved, rural communities.

In collaboration with AARP, local community colleges, broadband advocates, and 91°µÍř’s School of Nursing, the program will provide digital and telehealth literacy training to community members, preparing them for opportunities in the digital economy and enhancing access to healthcare through technology.

By addressing digital access, we empower individuals and equip communities to advocate for the infrastructure and investments they need.

According to a press release, “MAI-TAP received more than 20 grant applications for the initial round of funding, while the seven selected will also pursue private funding to go along with state resources. The other universities and colleges receiving funding include Belhaven University, Jackson State University, Millsaps College, Mississippi College, Mississippi State University, and the University of Southern Mississippi.”

Officials said at the press conference that the grants are a strategic investment that will directly benefit Mississippi’s future workforce capability and economic competitiveness.

“This is another bold step forward for Mississippi,” Governor Reeves said. “We’re not just preparing for the future – we’re building it. This investment will help to ensure that Mississippians are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.”

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The event brought together students, researchers, and faculty from across Mississippi to discuss the latest developments in scientific research.

Dr. Emran Ali, horticulture specialist for Extension Programs at Alcorn, was elected vice president of the Agriculture & Plant Science Division at MAS. This places him in line to serve as president of the Division next year.

Ali also served as a panelist alongside four faculty members from various Mississippi higher education institutions. The panel focused on how scientists select research questions, design studies, and inspire students to pursue careers in science.

Alcorn’s students competed in the Agriculture and Plant Sciences Division, earning six awards.

In the graduate oral presentation category, Abdul-Lateef Popoola, a graduate student, won first prize for his research on breeding resistance for watermelon production. John Jones also earned first place in Oral Session II for his work on tissue culture. Sritej Mateeti took second place for his study on phytoplasma as an emerging threat to crop production in Mississippi.

Among undergraduate students, Jontayvious Thomas won first place in the poster session for his research on rapid on-site soil testing.  Raven Butler placed third for her work on integrated pest management for vegetable production. In the undergraduate oral session, Jamiyla Watson took home first prize for her research on on-site disease diagnosis.

“I was motivated to participate to share my research findings with the scientific community, gain feedback from experts, and learn from fellow researchers,” said Abdul-Lateef Popoola, a graduate student in agronomy. “The opportunity to represent Dr. Emran Ali’s lab and highlight our work in plant molecular diagnostics inspired me to take part.”

Sritej Mateeti, another graduate student, reflected on the impact of the event. “Winning the award is rewarding, but more than that, this recognition motivates me to continue my research and stay in academia. My next goal is to pursue my Ph.D.; this experience has given me confidence,” he said.

Dr. Victor Njiti, chair of the Department of Agriculture, highlighted the students and faculty mentors for their accomplishments and dedication to research.

“I am incredibly proud of our students for their outstanding performance at the Mississippi Academy of Sciences Meeting,” said Njiti. “Their hard work, guided by our dedicated faculty, reflects Alcorn’s commitment to advancing agricultural research and sustainability. These achievements show that we are leading the way in agricultural innovation and preparing the next generation of scientists to tackle future challenges.”

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