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°”Íű were also speakers at the event.

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

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

“Having the opportunity to pour knowledge into them that could help them better prepare for the next phase of their life is my purpose,” said Mark. “Seeing the faces of the students receiving the information and watching them leave empowered and rejuvenated is something I wouldn’t trade for the world. I look forward to returning to the rich history here at Alcorn State and keeping the fire alive in them.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 ranking, coming in at number 13 on the list, highlights the program’s unique ability to combine educational and scientific rigor with a flexible format designed to meet the needs of working adults.

“We attribute this consistent success to our refusal to compromise on academic standards while ensuring our delivery remains accessible,” said Dr. Marta Piva, interim chairperson and professor of biology. “Our curriculum is designed to provide the same level of scientific rigor found in our on-campus classrooms, but with the convenience that allows working professionals to advance their careers without pausing their lives.”

OnlineU noted that Alcorn State’s program offers a “rĂ©sumĂ©-ready experience,” distinguishing itself from other online offerings through its faculty-guided capstone course. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for leadership and research roles across a wide variety of fields, ranging from molecular to organismal and environmental biology.

“This ranking significantly increases our visibility by showcasing the program’s quality on both national and international levels,” said Piva. “It affirms that 91°”Íű is a leader in STEM education, capable of producing graduates who are competitive in the global scientific community. Our degree program accommodates students with a wide variety of interests and is taught by expert faculty members dedicated to student success.”

First offered in 2014, the program has since grown into a leader in distance education among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). It offers advanced coursework in specialized areas, including pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, environmental biology, invertebrate zoology, and histology. Beyond content knowledge, students are rigorously trained in the field’s practical skills, including crafting and presenting professional research proposals.

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

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

“If you don’t see the arts in a community, it doesn’t mean people aren’t interested or capable,” said Daniels. “It often means they haven’t been exposed. As artists and educators, it’s our responsibility to bring that exposure—to meet people where they are and invite them into the experience.”

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

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

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

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Coleman’s presentations, scheduled from February through April, will highlight the storytelling power of quilting. Her work engages with historical figures such as Fannie Lou Hamer and literary works like A Raisin in the Sun, treating the quilt as a narrative text similar to a book.

“The quilt is an art form that sometimes serves as my TA,” said Coleman. “Several times over the years, I have entered the classroom with quilted works to demonstrate to my students what a quilt pattern is when we are discussing Alice Walker’s ‘Everyday Use’ or to show students the difference between a quilted quilt and a knotted quilt when we are discussing Susan Glaspell’s Trifles. These demonstrations allow me to move literature from the printed page to a realm of material culture.”

The series includes the following dates and locations:

• Saturday, Feb. 7, at 1 p.m.: “Quilting the Life of Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer: An American Icon,” Lincoln County Public Library, 100 South Jackson St., Brookhaven, Miss.

• Wednesday, Feb. 18, at 10 a.m.: “Exploring the Shared Legacy of Tougaloo College and 91°”Íű through Quilts,” 91°”Íű J. D. Boyd Library, Medgar Wiley Evers Auditorium, Lorman, Miss.

• Saturday, Feb. 28, at 2 p.m.: “Three Years in the Life of Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer: An American Catalyst for Change,” Natchez Literary and Cinema Celebration, Natchez Convention Center, Tupelo Room, 211 Main St., Natchez, Miss.

• Wednesday, March 18, at 4 p.m.: “Three Years in the Life of Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer: An American Catalyst for Change,” Mississippi University for Women, Building TBA, 1100 College St., W-220, Columbus, Miss.

• Wednesday, April 8, at noon: “The Hansberry Family, Alcorn A. & M. College, and A Raisin in the Sun: The Curious Connections,” History Is Lunch Presentation, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, 222 North St., #2205, Jackson, Miss.

Coleman draws inspiration from the women in her family who practiced the art form, piecing together the documentaries of their own lives. She views quilting not only as a vintage craft but as a versatile, academically significant medium.

“Quilting is academically significant because, like a book, a quilt is a text,” said Coleman. “One can read it just as one reads a book by studying its patterns and their meanings, the choice of the colors within, the stitching in the quilt, the intended use of the quilt, and the level of expertise that the finished product reveals.”

One of her featured works, “Is This America?”, acknowledges the social activism of Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer and her efforts to secure voting rights. Coleman notes that she often includes the pinwheel pattern in her work to remind viewers to keep moving forward despite difficulties.

“I really do live by the mantra, ‘When life gives you scraps, make quilts,’” said Coleman.

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The kickoff event features Dr. Theresa Horne, vice president and community manager, and Christopher Barney, vice president and branch manager, for JPMorgan Chase & Co. The session will take place in the Brian K. Johnson Auditorium, followed immediately by a networking social in the School of Business Auditorium.

“This spring’s lineup represents something truly special for our Alcorn family,” said 91°”Íű School of Business Dean Antwon D. Woods, Ph.D. “We’ve intentionally curated a diverse range of voices—from the established excellence of JPMorgan Chase, to the creative innovation of Disney, to the entrepreneurial courage of The IX.”

Held on the first Thursday of each month, the series connects academic theory with business practice. The upcoming networking social allows students to discuss career opportunities directly with firm representatives.

“Each speaker brings a unique perspective on what it means to achieve success in today’s dynamic business environment,” said Woods. “Whether you’re a student mapping your career trajectory, an alumnus looking to pivot or advance, or a community member seeking inspiration, these conversations will challenge you to think bigger about your potential and your purpose.”

The event is open to the campus community. For information on upcoming speakers and registration, contact Anita Norman at 601-877-6457 or acnorman@alcorn.edu.

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