JSU Fall 2023 Commencement Booklet by Jackson State University

fall 2023 commencement

friday, december 8 | 9 a.M. lee e. williams athletics and assembly center marcus l. thompson, Ph.D. President

Jackson State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master’s, specialist, and doctoral degrees. Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Jackson State University.

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notations to guests WELCOME Welcome to the Jackson State University Fall 2022 Commencement Exercises. Commencement is an important event in the life of the University, its students, faculty, and staff. It is a joyous yet solemn event that represents the culmination of the graduates’ years of study. Thank you for joining us and for being a part of the celebration. Again, we welcome you!

PHOTOGRAPHS Only authorized working press and University photographers are permitted on the floor to take pictures during the commencement ceremony. A professional photographer will take pictures of each graduate. These pictures will be available for order and purchase. Family and friends of the graduates may take photographs after the ceremony.

special needs Ushers for individuals with disabilities Ushers for attendees with special needs will be available to assist individuals with requests throughout the ceremony. Accessible seating Accessible seating is reserved for guests who require special seating because of age, illness, or physical impairment. The accessible seating is marked with signage. Given the limited number of accessible seats that are available, please note that only one family member may accompany his or her person with disabilities. The rest of the family must sit in the stands. American Sign Language American Sign Language interpretation of the ceremony will be provided.

first aid First Aid services will be available through the Jackson State University Health Center, and American Medical Response will be available for assistance during the Commencement Ceremony.

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COMMENCEMENT ETIQUETTE OUT OF RESPECT FOR OTHER FAMILIES PRESENT PLEASE:

silence all devices hold all applause until prompted no air horns or noisemakers please take all pictures with your graduate after the ceremony please avoid walking during the ceremony & please remain seated until the end of the ceremony masks are optional

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congratulatory

messages

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Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi 39217

Office Of The President

(601) 979-2323 Fax: (601) 979-2948

Dear Fall Graduating Class of 2023, We are here to celebrate you in the light of your accomplishment. Earning your college degree is a significant milestone that deserves all the pomp and circumstance. On behalf of Jackson State University, I offer heartfelt well wishes to you for this crowning achievement. We applaud your discipline, drive, and vision for your lives. The road to commencement can be a heavy lift. I am sure there were times you could not give 100% of yourselves. There were times of discouragement and when you second-guessed your decision-making. Even the best of us miss some goals along the way. However, it is how we respond to the challenge that gets us to the moment of triumph. This day signifies that you never gave up or gave in. I am confident that you will make a formative impact in the industries of your pursuit. You will influence policies and processes at local, state, national, and even global levels. Your professors and staff have prepared you to elevate public discourse and benefit the greater community with your gifts and talents. Undoubtedly, you will carry on the JSU legacy with pride and excellence. As you know, life will not be without trials. However, you have been primed for service to humankind and equipped to navigate an evolving world. Let this thought propel you forward always. Most importantly, be courageous in the face of adversity. Remain committed to truth and integrity, and remember how you rise to the occasion makes a world of difference. Your graduation further means you officially join our esteemed and dedicated alums who represent this institution with fierce loyalty and love. Your future accomplishments will be added to the storied history of distinction for which JSU is known. I also extend my warmest gratitude to your family, friends, and loved ones who have supported you during this momentous undertaking. You all have sacrificed together and are now reaping the reward as one. May the memories and relationships you have created sustain you on your new journey, and find comfort knowing you are always welcome at 1400 J.R. Lynch Street. It is an honor to have you as a member of the JSU family. Again, congratulations, and I wish you the best in your new beginnings! With Tiger Pride, Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. 13th President of JSU™ jackson state university | 6

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Office of the Mayor

Chokwe A. Lumumba., Mayor

219 South President Street Post Office Box 17 Jackson, Mississippi 39205-0017 Telephone: 601-960-1084 Facsimile: 601-960-2193

Jackson State University 1400 John R. Lynch Street Jackson, Mississippi 39217 December 8, 2023 Greetings Graduates! As Mayor of the City of Jackson, it is my sincere privilege to congratulate the Jackson State University graduating class of 2023. Today, you embark on a fantastic journey directed by your determination, persistence and hard work, to place your mark on the world. The entire city joins me in wishing you the very best in your endeavors toward a bright, intentional and prosperous future. Jackson State University carries a tremendous legacy of academic leadership, innovation, research, knowledge and creativity. It is a pillar of the Jackson community that is actively engaged with community partners to create mutually beneficial relationships that connect its students, faculty and staff to the Jackson Metropolitan area. As a city, we are proud to be home to such a profound historical institution dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders. Graduates, you will now join a distinguished group of alumni who have entered the world and global workforce with purpose. It is my honor to congratulate you on this milestone. Congratulations on a job well done and best wishes on your journey ahead! One City, One Aim, One Destiny! Sincerely,

Chokwe A. Lumumba, Mayor City of Jackson

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J a c k s o n S t at e N at i o n a l A lu m n i A s s o c i at i o n , I n c . P.O. Box 17820 | Jackson, MS 39217 | www.jsunaa.org Phone 601.979.2281 | Toll Free 800.578.6622

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Mrs. Patrease Edwards, President Mr. David Howard, Executive Director Mr. Sedric Myers, 1st Vice President Mrs. Lori Evans, 2nd Vice President Mrs. Brendolyn Hart-Glover, Secretary Mrs. Amber Redmond, Asst. Secretary Mr. Damarcus Haywood, Treasurer Mr. Willard Hart, Financial Secretary Mr. Steven Clark, Sr., Parliamentarian Rev. Doris Brietta Smith, Chaplain Mrs. Kymberly Wiggins, Asst. Chaplain Mr. Willie Nathan, Sergeant-At-Arms Ms. Whitney Henderson, Reporter Dr. Earlexia Norwood, Immediate Past President REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS Mr. Michael Easter, Far West Mr. Larry Cameron, Midwest Dr. Damian Thomas, Mississippi Ms. Thelma Strong, Northeast Mr. Kenneth Archer, Southeast Ms. Katherine Cage, Southwest BOARD MEMBERS Far West Region Mrs. Pamela Bunker Ms. Jeanette Magee Midwest Region Mrs. Angela Waller Dr. Jacquelyn Thomas-Miller Mississippi Region Mrs. Tammy Terrell-Brooks Ms. Vera Watson Northeast Region Ms. Dena Bilbrew Ms. Stephanie Hall Southeast Region Ms. Freida Dale Ms. Deborah Taylor Southwest Region Mr. Brandon Ward Mr. Jeremy Sanford National Board Members (Emeritus) Dr. John Peoples Dr. Hilliard Lackey, III COMMITTEE CHAIRS Ms. V. Lynn Evans, Audit Mrs. Lillian Wilkinson-Maynor, Awards & Recognition Mr. Damarcus Haywood, Budget Mr. Steven Clark, Sr, Constitution & Bylaws Mr. Sedric Myers, Fundraising Mr. Jerome Brown, Investment Mr. Larry Cameron, Fellows Foundation Mr. Darryl Pilate, Development Foundation Mr. Michael Jefferson, ICT Mrs. Lori Evans, Membership Ms. Stephanie Hall, Political Action Ms. Sharon Davis, Nominations & Elections Mrs. Ranetta Goss Gay, Scholarship Ms. Raven Griffin, Chief of Staff Ms. Robinette Rasberry, Assistant Chief of Staff

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Congratulations, Graduates! On behalf of the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc. (JSUNAA), I am delighted to extend my congratulations on your graduation and welcome you to our membership! During your time at the University, you have been intimately connected with the Jackson State community. However, as you move forward, this connection will expand beyond your years spent in Jackson. Your education, experiences, and friendships have laid the groundwork for your lifelong affiliation with Jackson State University. JSUNAA, in collaboration with the Department of Alumni and Constituency Relations, organizes various events and programs at the local, regional, and national levels. I strongly urge you to get involved with your local chapter and make an immediate impact on the success of our alma mater. You will be pleasantly surprised by the exceptional network of JSU alumni who are ready to support you as you embark on your life after leaving “our dear old college home.” JSUNAA has already covered your membership dues for the current fiscal year, valid until June 30, 2024. We hope you will proudly carry your membership card and encourage your friends and family to join our alumni association. Please visit our website (www.jsunaa.org) regularly to stay updated on the latest news and upcoming events sponsored by the National Alumni Association. Above all, I invite you to become active at the National level and maintain your connection to the University. If you have any suggestions for alumni events in your area or ideas on how to enhance communication, please do not hesitate to reach out to me, contact the Alumni Office, or any member of the Alumni Executive Board. We value your input and ideas. This is our Association, and we are dedicated to elevating our alumni organization! I wish you all the best in your post-graduation endeavors and look forward to meeting and celebrating with you at future alumni events. You have now become an integral part of a remarkable community committed to the ongoing success of Jackson State University. Welcome to the JSUNAA family! With Tiger Love!

JSUNAA, Inc. President

2023 fall ceremony Commencement Speaker An award-winning communications strategist, Sophia Marshall partners with organizations to create value and drive impact with strategic communications programs. From corporate identity and culture to thought leadership and reputation management, Sophia has more than 22 years of experience building, transforming and leading integrated communications programs for premiere B2B and consumer brands.

As Senior Vice President of Communications for Comcast Central Division, Sophia oversees all aspects of communications and creative services for the company’s largest division serving more than 20M customers in the Midwest and Southeast United States. Under her leadership, the team has expanded its focus on social media, influencer engagement, advocacy and employee ambassadorship earning recognition for storytelling excellence from several professional organizations including the Public Relations Society of America.

Sophia Y. Marshall Global Communications Strategist & C-Suite Advisor

Prior to joining Comcast, Sophia served as Company Officer and Vice President of Communications for Wellstar, one of Georgia’s largest and most integrated health systems. As Chief Communicator, Sophia developed and led communications strategy, public relations, and crisis communications during healthcare’s most challenging period garnering earned media coverage worth more than $20M in a single year. Over the course of her career, Sophia has led and transformed multiple communications programs for national and global brands including GE Power, where she served as Executive Director of CEO & Global Culture Communications; GE Industrial Solutions; and Serta Simmons Bedding. She has also held leadership roles in branding, employee communications, and public relations for NASCO, Albany State University, and UPS. A life-long learner and avid volunteer, Sophia holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Albany State University and a Master of Science in Technical & Professional Communication from Kennesaw State University. Sophia resides in the greater Atlanta area with her family where she is a proud and active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and dedicates her spare time to mentoring young girls and women.

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jackson state University® 2023 fall

commencement Order of exercises 9:00 A.M. Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. 13th President, Jackson State University Presiding Officer Prelude. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “Shine You No More”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rune Tonsgaard Sørensen Arranged by Douglas A. Richard Joella H. Gipson, String Ensemble Dr. LaTannia Ellerbe, Conductor Academic Processional Facilitator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Alisa L. Mosley, Ph.D. Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Processional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .“Pomp and Circumstance”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sir Edward Elgar Joella H. Gipson, String Ensemble (Audience stands) Presentation of Colors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JSU Air Force and Army ROTC Joint Color Guard National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .“The Star-Spangled Banner” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Francis Scott Key Arranged by William W. Davis Led by Kaytie Jeffries, Junior Music Performance Major Vocal Concentration Mr. Jerry Smith, Collaborative Pianist (Audience remains standing) Negro National Anthem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .“Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J. Rosamond Johnson and James Weldon Johnson Arranged by Kevan Johnson Jabarrie Evans, Senior Music Education Major Vocal Concentration Mr. Jerry Smith, Collaborative Pianist (Audience remains standing) Invocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jerry Young Pastor, New Hope Baptist Church of Jackson, MS President, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Greetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. President, Jackson State University Acknowledgments and Announcements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Locord D. Wilson, Ph. D. Interim Dean of Libraries

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Musical Selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .“Presto” from Sonata No. 1 in G Minor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J.S. Bach Josiah Osula, Freshman Computer Engineering Major, Music Minor Introduction of Commencement Speaker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Austin Rolfe Mr. JSU, Marketing Major, College of Business Commencement Address. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mrs. Sophia Y. Marshall Senior Vice President of Communications for Comcast Central Division Presentation of Citations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. President, Jackson State University Recognition of Candidates for Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lt. Colonel Samuel Williams Air Force ROTC Lt. Colonel Rodgers Brown Army ROTC Presentation of Candidates for Degrees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alisa L. Mosley, Ph.D. Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Fidelis Ikem, Ph.D., Dean Jerri Haynes, Ed.D., Dean Russell Bennett, Ph.D., Interim Dean Rico Chapman, Ph.D., Dean Wilbur Walters, Ph.D., Dean Preselfannie McDaniels, Ph.D., Dean

College of Business College of Education and Human Development College of Health Sciences College of Liberal Arts College of Science, Engineering, and Technology Graduate Studies

Conferring and Awarding of Degrees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. President, Jackson State University Induction of Graduates into the Jackson State University National Alumni Association. . . . . . . . Ms. Patrease Edwards President, Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Inc.

Alumni Pledge:

I hereby solemnly pledge unbroken allegiance to my Alma Mater in appreciation for the opportunity for development afforded me at Jackson State University. I pledge active membership in the Jackson State University National Alumni Association, Incorporated, wherever I may be. Through association with my fellow alumni, I shall forever do my best to uphold the ideals and traditions of my Alma Mater. I pledge, as a person, to exemplify high ideals by rendering positive and dignified service to the community, the state, the nation, and the world, thus, living to bring honor and respect to my Alma Mater.

Closing Remarks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D. President, Jackson State University

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Alma Mater (Audience stands)

“Jackson Fair”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . T.D. Pawley Arranged by F. D. Hall Led by Julia Johnson, Sophomore Music Education Major University Symphonic Band Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear Thee I love, my dear old college home Thee I love wherever I may roam Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear. Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear Thee I love thy colors rich and bright Thee I love, the blue and the white Jackson Fair, Jackson Dear. Refrain Hail, hail to thee, yes, hail to thee; Hail to the college of my heart, Hail, hail to thee, yes, hail to thee; Hail, to the college of my heart. *Hymn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “God Be With You” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .William Tomer Led by Savion Lucious, Senior Music Education Major University Symphonic Band (Audience remains standing) God be with you till we meet again; By His counsel guide, uphold you. With His sheep securely fold you; God be with you till we meet again! God be with you till we meet again; Keep love’s banner floating o’er you; Smite death’s threat’ning wave before you; God be with you till we meet again! Refrain Till we meet, till we meet, Till we meet at Jesus’ feet, Till we meet, till we meet, God be with you till we meet again! Amen (Audience remains standing) *Following the custom initiated by President Luther G. Barrett, the hymn “God Be With You” has been sung at all Jackson State University Commencements since 1911. Benediction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Jerry Young Pastor, New Hope Baptist Church of Jackson, MS President, National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Recessional. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .“Scherzo” from Terzetto in C, Op. 74. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Antonin Dvořák Led by Joella H. Gipson, String Ensemble (Audience remains seated)

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graduate candidates for degrees

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Jerri A. Haynes, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

Doctor of education EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION *Erica Dixon, Douglasville, GA

Dissertation: An Examination of Burnout and Persistence Among Early Childhood Professionals within an Urban Childcare Center in Central Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Tony Latiker

*Ledell Funchess, Jr., Opelousas, LA

Dissertation: An Examination of the Factors that Influence the Career Decisions of Male Early Childhood Educators Advisor: Dr. Alfonzo Haralson

*Kristy Taylor, Madison, MS

Dissertation: An Examination of Early Childhood Teachers’ Efficacy and Knowledge of Speech and Language Development, Impairments, and Referral Processes Advisor: Dr. Tony Latiker

Doctor of Philosophy Educational Administration *Nadine Smith Gilbert, Jackson, MS

Dissertation: The Impact of Poverty on Third Grade Readiness, Third Grade Reading Gate, and Third Grade Reading Proficiency in Mississippi School Districts Advisor: Dr. Chandar Lewis

La’Kitha Bledsoe Hughes, Grenada, MS

Dissertation: Impact of Campus Facilities on the Recruitment of African American College Students at a Selected Historically Black University in the South Advisor: Dr. Carrine Bishop

Yin Luo, Clinton, MS

Dissertation: Perceived Teachers’ Service-Oriented Leadership on Students’ Resilience for Mental Health Improvement during the COVID-19 Pandemic Advisor: Dr. Benjamin Ngwudike

*Lulu Jiang, Jackson, MS

Dissertation: Online Teaching Leadership and K-12 Teachers’ Identify During the COVID-19 Pandemic in China Advisor: Dr. Benjamin C. Ngwudike

Tara L. McKenzie, Raymond, MS

Dissertation: International Students’ Perceptions Toward Programs and Support Services at a Comprehensive Urban University in the South Advisor: Dr. Carrine Bishop 15 | 2023 fall commencement

Vania L. Pate, Southaven, MS

*Ruthie Little-Berry, Leesburg, FL

Chunyan Sun, Clinton, MS

*Justin Christopher Mack, New Orleans, LA

Dissertation: A Comparative Analysis of Students’ Academic Performance in Higher Education after COVID-19 Advisor: Dr. Bettye Graves Dr. Dorris Robinson-Gardner Dissertation: The Impact of Presidents’ Digital Leadership on Effectiveness of Online Instruction in Higher Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic Advisor: Dr. Benjamin Ngwudike

Yixuan Wang, Madison, MS

Dissertation: Impact of Higher Education Policy in Minority Serving Institutions in Southeast Region of the United States Advisor: Dr. Benjamin Ngwudike

Urban Higher Education *Chavis L. Bradford, Roxie, MS

Dissertation: Students’ Perspectives on Instructor Quality on Student Success in Online Learning in Higher Education Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

Dissertation: The Impact of Dual Enrollment on College Readiness for Students Entering Historically Black Colleges and Universities Advisor: Walter A. Brown

Dissertation: The Impact of Black Greek Letter Fraternities’ (BGLFS) Extracurricular Activities on Student Engagement among African American Students Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

*Reginald L. Porter, Jr., Memphis, TN

Dissertation: Perceptions of Governance Boards on the Adoption of Succession Plans for Minorities as University Presidents Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

*Monohn Prud’homme, Monroe, LA

Dissertation: Impact of Mentorship on African American Women in Mid-Level Administration in Higher Education Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

*Donald W. Comer, Memphis, TN

*Javan Denard Reed, Jacksonville, FL

*Pernell Howard Goodwin, Jackson, MS

Maria Angelica Ricketts, Madison, MS

Dissertation: Factors Influencing the Resiliency and Thriving of Housing Insecure Students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie Dissertation: The Impact of Campus Residency on Retention of First-Generation African American College Students at Predominantly White Institutions Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

*Sylvia Denice Griffin, Conyers, GA

Dissertation: The Persistence of First-Generation African American Female Students at Private Historically Black Colleges and Universities Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

*Angelica Denise Jefferson, Birmingham, AL

Dissertation: The Impact of Mentoring and Academic Persistence among African American Medical School Students Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

Rahman Kareem Ross Johnson, Jacksonville, FL

Dissertation: Perceptions of Communications Strategies on the Tenures of Historically Black College and University Presidents Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

*Jimmy Jones, Shreveport, LA

Dissertation: Adoption and Non-Adoption of Sustainable and Renewable Energy Integration by Administrators at Private and Public Historically Black Colleges and Universities Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

Dissertation: Factors Influencing Persistence Among Formerly Incarcerated Nontraditional Students through the Lens of Anti-Deficit Framework Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown Dissertation: Perceptions of Developmental Education Faculty and Counselors of College Student Readiness at Selected Higher Education Institutions in Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

*Alana Nichole Stevenson, Monroe, LA

Dissertation: The Perceived Impact of Online Course Design on the Persistence of Students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities Advisor: Dr. Walter A. Brown

*Marques Jamaal Wilkes, Jacksonville, FL Dissertation: Impact of Academic Integration and Social Engagement on Student Persistence at Historically Black Colleges and Universities during the COVID-19 Pandemic Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

*Anthony T. Williams, Jr., Belleville, IL

Dissertation: Black Undergraduate Males’ Persistence at a Predominately White Institution Located in a Rural Community Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

Sunya L. Young, Columbia, SC

Dissertation: The Impact of Motivations and Organizational Ethos of Foundation Giving to Small Colleges and Universities Advisor: Dr. Felix A. Okojie

* Summer 2023 Conferment

Russell Bennett, Ph.D. Interim Deam, College of Health Sciences School of Public Health; School of Social Work

TyKera Shaude Marrow, Baltimore, MD

Dissertation: Just Be A Man About It: A Sequential Explanatory Examination of Men’s Health and Healthcare Utilization Advisor: Dr. Dawn McLin

Doctor of public health *Louisa Rygh, Oslo, Norway PUBLIC HEALTH *Shelia M. Malone, Crosby, MS

Dissertation: Examining the Impact of Cultural Norms on Cardiovascular Disease Prevalence among African American Adults in the Jackson Heart Study Advisor: Dr. Marinelle Payton

Brandon M. Nabors, Holly Springs, MS

Dissertation: HIV Prevention Stakeholder Conversations: An Exploratory Study of Southern Culture, Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM), and PreP Uptake Advisor: Dr. Mary Shaw-Ridley

Temiloluwa Olajumoke Ogundeyi, Abeokuta, Nigeria

Dissertation: Attitudes Toward Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Among College Students in Intimate Relationships Who Attend a Historically Black College in Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Mary Shaw-Ridley

*Nwanne Onumah, Pearl, MS

Dissertation: The Impact of Metabolic Syndrome on Mortality Risk among African American Adults: The Jackson Heart Study Advisor: Dr. Clifton Addison

Austine Uzodinma Onyia, Dandriga, Stann Creek District, Belize

Dissertation: Telehealth Education in SelfManagement of Type 2 Diabetes: Findings from Jackson Randomized Diabetes Telehealth Project Advisor: Dr. Azad R. Bhuiyan Rico Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

Dissertation: “It Takes A Village”: An Examination of Parental Relationship Functioning During Pediatric Cancer Treatment Advisor: Dr. Pamela Banks

*Wynette Williams-Kirkwood, Ridgeland, MS

Dissertation: Psychological Outcomes and Pain Characteristics among Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease Patients and Their Caregivers Advisor: Dr. Kaye Sly Dr. Cynthia Karlson

Public Administration Willie C. Anderson, Kosciusko, MS

Dissertation: The Impact of Local Mitigation Policy on Disaster Preparedness: Perception of Confidence of Small Minority-Owned Businesses in Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Donna Carole Echols, Starkville, MS

Dissertation: The Effectiveness of Child Advocacy Center Multidisciplinary Teams on Combating Felony Child Abuse Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Julius Earl Green II, Port Gibson, MS

Dissertation: Hurricane Preparedness and Mitigation Impact Analysis: Hurricane Katrina (2005), Hurricane Harvey (2017), and Maria (2017) Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Ashlee Danielle Theodore Kelly, New Orleans, LA

Dissertation: An Impact Analysis of HUD Programs in Mississippi: Overcoming the Unaffordability of Housing Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Doctor of Philosophy

Felicia Knight, Jackson, MS

Psychology

Tiwashia Monique Ross, Rolling Fork, MS

Meghan C. Brown, Jackson, MS

Dissertation: Racial and Religious Implicit Bias, Even When We Have Good intentions: An Intergroup Threat Theory Approach Advisors: Dr. Cheryl Moreland

*Ce’Ne Nyagel Sha’Bre Harris, Marrero, LA Dissertation: “Tryna’ Make a Dollar Out of Fifteen Cents”: A Phenomenological Exploration of Poverty as a Traumatic Event in the Southern United States Advisor: Dr. Dawn McLin * Summer 2023 Conferment

Dissertation: The Impact of Out-of-Pocket Expenses and Inflation on the Basic Needs of Medicare Beneficiaries 65+ (2012-2022) Advisor: Dr. Ester W. Stokes Dissertation: A Summative Evaluation of Childhood Obesity in Mississippi Since the Implementation of the Mississippi Action Plan, 2005-2021 Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr.

Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D. Dean, College of Science, Engineering and Technology

Doctor of Philosophy Computational, Data-Enabled, Science and Engineering Herious Cotton, Byram, MS

Dissertation: Using Data Analytics to Forecast Violent Crime Advisor: Dr. Tor A. Kwembe

Di Wu, Madison, MS

Dissertation: Automatic Safety Diagnosis in Connected Vehicle Environment Advisor: Dr. Shuang Z. Tu

ENGINEERING Rakesh Salunke, Madison, MS

Dissertation: Smart Geotechnical Asset Management Framework for Climate Adaptive Infrastructure Advisor: Dr. Sadik Khan

Nur Mohammad Shuman, Jackson, MS

Dissertation: Efficient Machine Learning Models for Axial Compressive Capacity of Helical Piles from Field Tests and Numerical Study Advisor: Dr. Farshad Amini

Environmental Science Thomasina Jenkins, Jackson, MS

Dissertation: Concentration Levels and BioAccessibility of Heavy Metals and Trace Elements in Children Playgrounds of Central Mississippi Advisor: Dr. Fengxiang Han Dr. Paul Tchounwou

Keara L. Johnson, Bassfield, MS

Dissertation: Management of Invasive Breast Cancer Care Using Machine Learning: Implications of Breast Cancer Disparity Advisor: Dr. Paul B. Tchounwou Dr. Barbara Graham

Roderick Cordell McDowell, McComb, MS

Dissertation: Computational Identification of Small Molecular Inhibitors of the PD1/PD-L1 Immune Checkpoint Advisor: Dr. Glake Hill Dr. Paul Tchounwou

Jessica Jordan Vaughn, Greenville, MS

Dissertation: The U.S. Minimum Wage Versus a Living Wage: An Examination of Impacts and Implications Advisor: Dr. Johnny B. Gilleylen, Sr. jackson state university | 16

Urban and Regional Planning Terrance Anderson, Detroit, MI

Dissertation: A Case Study of the Impact of the Federal Empowerment Zone and Enterprise Community Designation on Central Harlem’s African American Residents: A Pilot Study Advisor: Dr. Joan Marshall Wesley

Shalonda D. Carlisle, Jackson, MS

Dissertation: Pilot Study: Assessing Residents’ Perceptions of Tourism across the Magnolia State Advisor: Dr. Joan Marshall Wesley

Denise Monique Clark, Thornton, MS Dissertation: Citizen Participation Levels in Hazard Mitigation Planning in Southern Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana Advisor: Dr. Joan Marshall Wesley

Bertiel Gaskin Harris, Edwards, MS

Dissertation: Neighborhood Watch Using Technology Applications to Report Early Issues of Lead Contamination: A Comparative Study of Flint, MI, Jackson, MS, and Newark, NJ, Water Crises Advisor: Dr. Talya D. Thomas

Adeduro Olateru Olagbegi, Jackson, MS Dissertation: Assessing the Changing Trends In Cocoa Production in South West Nigeria Advisor: Dr. Edmund Merem Jerri A. Haynes, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

specialist in education EDUCATION Andreanna Armstrong, Jackson, MS *Vanessa G. Barton, Carthage, MS Denia Bates, Goodman, MS *Denavia Donnielle Bell, Jackson, MS Maurice Lopez Bowie, Ludlow, MS Shaikara Bryant, Shaw, MS Carmen Christmas, Southaven, MS Ashley Rolonda Clark, Union Church, MS *Gabrielle M. Santa Cruze, Horn Lake, MS Torrey A. Dale, Durant, MS Korea Lyvette Davis, Canton, MS Matalyn D. Evans, Brandon, MS Janee’ Shonise Ford, Leland, MS *Ciesha L. Genous, Yazoo City, MS *Gloria Goodwin, Hazlehurst, MS Ashley Coffey Gory, New Albany, MS *Alfonzo Haralson, Jackson, MS Karen P. Howard-Dawson, Moss Point, MS Kymberly Hulitt, a, MS * Summer 2023 Conferment

17 | 2023 fall commencement

Shakia Mone’t Jacobs, Jackson, MS Kristina Gabrielle Howard, Madison, MS Amber LaNay Jones, Hazlehurst, MS Terrill K Hughes, Mount Vernon, NY *Shanton Marie Kelly, Canton, MS *Jade Annalessie Humphrey, Clinton, MS Carlton Dontreal Lyons, Utica, MS *Tara Chantrell Jackson, Lorman, MS *Olmec Martin, Kosciusko, MS *Jemessia Johnson, Byram, MS Imani Monique Miller, Jackson, MS *Darriane Angelle Jones, Slidell, LA Christina Moseley, Benton, MS *Jiris A’Kevion Killingsworth, Utica, MS Tabatha Morgan, Canton, MS *Shaquanna Lachelle Logan, Meridian, MS Julian Morgan, Jackson, MS Marshal Luiz, Surrey, British Columbia Selina Card Nichols, Hernando, MS *Artomesia Michelle Martin, Brandon, MS Jonneka Nicole Pough, Jackson, MS Tyra McCormick, Clinton, MS Detria Samira Redding, McComb, MS Tyler Alexis Moorer, Birmingham, AL Tierra S. Reed, Hazlehurst, MS *Armad Rashad Henry Obasohan, Corneisha Richmond, Lexington, MS Compton, CA *Sharonda Ozella Riley, Olive Branch, MS *Marvin O’Neal, Jr., Hazelhurst, MS *Gregory E. Smith, Jackson, MS Briunna Lynsha Outlaw, Jackson, MS *Jennifer Nicole Sykes, Aberdeen, MS Jasmine M Quinn, Indianapolis, IN Amber Jachiri Shaw, Jackson, MS Gabriel Antonio Reed, Mobile, AL Natasha Evette Tarrio, Clinton, MS Ashley Robinson, Brandon, MS Clauditte Tchakounte Tchakoua, Ernest Lee Smith Jr., Jackson, MS Clinton, MS Tyson Oneil Smith, Lumberton, MS Shawn D. Terwilliger, Florence, MS *Dedra Renee Thomas, Jackson, MS Shonteria Thompson, Cleveland, MS Michael Charli Ngahane Tonmbiak, Crystal T. Tyson, Greenwood, MS Dallas, TX *Tyronica Brenshia White, Greenville, MS Allen Chandler Walker, Alpharetta, GA Avia Patrice Williams, Jackson, MS Renikka N Ware, Starkville, MS Quenyota Williams Young, Greenville, MS *Harold Waterman Kim Lashun Woodard, Pinola, MS Fidelis M. Ikem, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business

master of business administration BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Regina Adams, Vicksburg, MS Deborah Hines Ambrose, Jackson, MS *Austin LaRon Campbell, Starkville, MS *Damien Delwon Duren, Itta Bena, MS *Tehya Tiara Collier, Starkville, MS *Dina Nate Coleman, Jackson, MS Verquonda Foreman, Yazoo City, MS Camryn Elise Gaines, Sledge, MS *Keneatris Deneysha Greer, Lexington, MS Jasmine Imani Guy, Jackson, MS *Felecia Harris-Day, Greenville, MS *Lydia Haro, Jackson, MS *Jeffery D. Harris, Memphis, TN *Jordan Maurice Hart, Canton, MS Aarion Leelyn Hartman, Patterson, LA Erica Deanne Hite, Hazlehurst, MS *Kimberlyn Michelle Hooker, Brookhaven, MS

master of professional Accountancy Professional Accountancy Sheldon Alston, Jackson, MS *Jayda Ivonne Grissett, Chicago, IL Mohammed A. Ibrahim, New Paltz, NY *Courtney Renee’ Logan, Clinton, MS *Doshua Kiera McCray, Brandon, MS Julia McWilliams, Jackson, MS *Taylor K. Morgan, Jackson, MS *Deundra Owens-Blackmon, Madison, MS Lovelace Yemo Quarshie, Jackson, MS *Brionna Trevillion, Hazelhurst, MS *Jordan Wesley, Atlanta, GA

Jerri A. Haynes, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

master of Science

TEACHING

*Tamritha Dean, Jackson, MS Taylor Briana Fry, Natchez, MS Oliver Houston Hopkins lll, Quitman, MS Kimberly A. Hubbard, Bentonia, MS Indira Mahindra Hudson, Charleston, MS Erica Demetris Knox, West Lafayette, IN LaBethani M. May, Jackson, MS Laquarius C. Moorehead, Yazoo City, MS Alex Sam Stewart, Madison, MS Trina Patton Toles, Clinton, MS

master of arts Clinical Mental Health in teaching Counseling Marquis L Allen, Jackson, MS *MonToria Atkinson, Jackson, MS *Kourtney Bailey, Vicksburg, MS Jeanette Beamon, Brandon, MS Khylah Nicole Beamon, Jackson, MS Cheryl Moore Benjamin, West Point, MS Tamatha Berry, Jackson, MS *Tiaera Mariah Berry, Flowood, MS *Octavia Bickham, Brandon, MS Tenesha NeaShay Boyd, Philadelphia, MS Asheyanna Brown, Clinton, MS Raquel Burns, Jackson, MS Adrian M. Caston, Jackson, MS Zaveon D. Cooper II, Jackson, MS Yulonda Davis, Flora, MS Brianna Nicole Durden, Moss Point, MS Kenneth C. Eley, Monticello, MS Kametriss Handy, Canton, MS *Bridget J. Harris, Jackson, MS Myressa R. Holmes, Ridgeland, MS Kierra Hucks, Yazoo City, MS Cynthia Antonia Ivy, Scooba, MS *Rashun Monique Johnson, Vaughan, MS Shonda Blakely Johnson, Jackson, MS Phylicia Roche’ Kersh, Brandon, MS *Jaleel Rashaud King, Goodman, MS Brandyn Kirkwood, Jackson, MS Angela Matthews-Rosell, Canton, MS Nickeela Miller, Brandon, MS Ratasha Shanelle Miller, Hermanville, MS Quashaine Morgan, Rose Hill, MS JaLisa Nelson, Jackson, MS T’Ondrea Alicia Noble-Robinson, Port Gibson, MS *Stacey Norris, Walnut Grove, MS De’Anza Price, Clarksdale, MS Casey Reed, Forest, MS *Courtney Patrece Reed, Port Gibson, MS LaTishia Sanders-Fullilove, Carthage , MS *Trenetta LaChelle Smith, Jackson, MS Joyce Stokes, Canton, MS Crystal Andrea Story, Cleveland, MS Ivie Michelle Taylor, Gulfport, MS Gwana Emeka Thompson, Pike, MS Clarissa Mona Williams, McComb, MS Frank Williams Jr., Jayess, MS *Bridgette L. Wilson, Tupelo, MS * Summer 2023 Conferment

Educational Administration and Supervision Darcel Gardner Brandon, Columbus, MS Carlton S. Brown, Grenada, MS *Hannah Dean, Hattiesburg, MS Ayanna Gwendolyn Humphrey, New Orleans, LA *Kalanya M. Moore, Jackson, MS Kahlil Nytrelll Walker, Jackson, MS Elementary and Special Education Jacqueline Bacon Hill, Camden, MS Jessica W. Cox, Jackson, MS Venetra Harper, Pickens, MS Arnesha C. Harris, Tchula, MS Tracey K. Helm, Durant, MS Bernadette Jaunester Leavy, Pickens, MS Charde’ Denise Lyons, Jackson, MS Latasha Nicole Mitchell, Durant, MS Ammiesta Y. Stewart, Canton, MS Madison Nathaniel Le’Keiford Upendo, Jackson, MS Allanakiesh K. Vance, Lake Jackson, TX

Titianna L Lewis, Jackson, MS Kawaii Perry, Ridgeland, MS *Anson Ross, Jackson, MS *Equon Jaylin Smith, Jackson, MS Dwayne Ellis Stevens Jr., Ridgeland, MS *Alf Freddie Tucker III, Dallas, TX Antonio A. Valadez Guardado, Milwaukee, WI Brittney N.D. Williams, Morvant, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago

master of Science in Education Early Childhood Education Concepcion Anderson, Greenwood, MS Allison Brown, Jackson, MS Torironda Lynn Douzart, Monroe, LA Anissa Renee’ Hampton, Chicago, IL TaTyana Y’teaka Hampton, Greenville, MS Ashley Harris- Hoskins, Byram, MS Angela Johnson-Miller, Hammond, LA *Shamara Latrice Littlejohn, Oxford, MS Ellen McCray, Clarksdale, MS Bridgett Newsome-Funchess, Jackson, MS Tony Porter, Jackson, MS Quarmekia Scott, Jackson, MS Ebonnie Jewel Wynn, Kosciusko, MS Health, Physical Education and Recreation Charles D. Kibbee, Greenville, MS Marshona Kesha’ Straughter, Yazoo City, MS Reading Education Christy D. Atkinson, Lawrenceville, GA Natasha Antionette Jennings, Brandon, MS

Rehabilitation Counseling

School Counseling

Agatha Patrice Hubbard, New Orleans, LA Bethany McKenzie Jones, Columbus, MS

Vanessa Howard, Belzoni, MS Courtney Amanda McGee, Ridgeland, MS Sarah Denise Nicholson, Jackson, MS

Sport Science Marcus Javon Attterberry, Monticello, MS Jaylin Telzy Boykin, Tunica, MS Olivia Alexsandra Calhoun, Chicago, IL Jeremiah Jamal Cooper, Indianola, MS *Ommaya Davis, Madison, MS Amos Hightower, Durant, MS John F. Howell, Mission, TX Majesty Ashonte Langdon, Canton, MS

Special Education Latoya Andrealis Davis, Pearl, MS

jackson state university | 18

Russell Bennett, Ph.D. Interim Dean, College of Health Sciences School of Public Health; School of Social Work

*Victoria Marie Washington, Memphis, TN

master of Science

Advisor: Dr. Ebony O. Lumumba

Journalism and Media Studies

english Thesis: Yahweh Ain’t god: Dispelling Colonial Ideologies in English Translations of the Bible

master of Public Health History Public Health Idowu Peter Shileayo Adebayo, Ososo, Nigeria Carmen N. Cummings, Oakland, CA Keva Michelle Harris, Memphis, TN Carlton R. Hollie, Jackson, MS Tiffany Shunte Jones, Jackson, MS Murtada Saeed Khalifa, Khartoum, Sudan Jameskia Jacquetta Lacey, Canton, MS Omari A. Turner, Auburn, AL Pablo Williams, Jr., Jackson, MS

master of Science Communicative Disorders *Patrice T. Hampton, Jackson, MS

master of Social Work Social Work *Fernando Mitchell, II, Magee, MS Alex Barret Oakes, Pearl, MS Nicole Nasha’ Rollen, Oxford, MS Rico D. Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

Jada Wright-Greene, Tampa, FL

Thesis: Exploring Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Service and Sisterhood: Gamma Theta Omega Chapter 1908 – 2023 Advisor: Dr. C. Sade Turnipseed

Political Science Emmett Denson, Clinton, MS Casharia L. Wiley, Jackson, MS Sociology Patrick DeMond Lee, Goshen Springs, MS

master of Music Education

*Lauren Janay Washington, Grambling, LA Thesis: Being Other: Analyzing the Effects and

Stereotypes of Underrepresented Minorities in the Media

Advisor: Dr. Nathan Towery Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D. Dean, College of Science, Engineering and Technology

master of arts

Urban and Regional Planning Nathan Ester Coe, Milwaukee, WI Lucy Francine M. Ewing, Bolton, MS Kortnie Sheron Starling, Jackson, MS

master of Science

Music Education

Computer Science

Steven Ashantee Carswell, Clayton, NC *Tommie Green, Vicksburg, MS

*James Akinloluwa Ejiwale, Ola, Osun State, Nigeria Hareesh Myneedi, Jackson, MS *Eboni Phillips, Madison, MS Opeoluwa Williams, Lagos, Nigeria

*Shaun McClinton, Matteson, IL

Project: Disability of Not: Examination of Pedagogical Approaches with Secondary Music Students

Advisor: Dr. Lisa Beckley-Roberts Dr. Ramon Jackson

Urshula Nea’lette-Monique Patrick, Forest, MS

Engineering Akinola I. Gonzalez, Chicago, IL Dontavius A. Patton, Byram, MS

master of arts

master of public Policy and Administration

Hazardous Materials Management

Criminology and Justice Services

PUBLIC POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION

*Tia Carr, Jackson, MS

Makena Cheheba Alexander, Queens, NY Amber Gabrielle Anderson, Jackson, MS Asheala Queria Brinson, Jackson, MS Joe Edward Davis IV, Ridgeland, MS Khaliya Elnise Ervin, Park Forest, IL Jonyetta Warkeya Jontranecia Johnson, Vaughan, MS Jalise Leigh Sims, Canton, MS

Z. Tyre Beal, Jackson, MS Ashton Clarence Jaymes Gage, Gulfport, MS Tia Faye Grisham, Carthage, MS Shana L Holloway, Hazlehurst, MS Roselyn Ann Hutton, Byram, MS Jaquane Jeffrey-Jerome Johnson, Detroit, MI

Aundrea Martinez McBride, Los Angeles, CA

Belinda Watts, Columbus, GA 19 | 2023 fall commencement

Nicholas Johnson, Grand Prairie, TX Mathematics

master of Science in education Technology Education Charles E. Higgins, Jr., Hazlehurst, MS Brandy Poole-Smith, Jackson, MS Dejuana G. Sweargen-Parker, Jackson, MS * Summer 2023 Conferment

jackson state university | 20

“Reflect on your history, the history of our ancestors who strived to achieve moral justice, peace, and equality for all…teach children their great heritage, teach children about Medgar Evers and Fannie Lou Hammer, and all the ancestors who’ve given their lives in order to make this world a better place.” 21 | 2023 fall commencement

- Homer Wilkes, Ph.D., ’78, ’80 & ’06 Undersecretary of Agriculture for Natural Resources and the Environment

Candidates for Degrees The commencement program booklet contains the names of candidates for degrees. It is possible that a candidate listed in this publication may not have completed all degree requirements. Failure to remove the name of a person(s) listed in error does not obligate the University to grant the diploma. The student’s transcript is the official record of the University. Diplomas will be mailed to the student approximately 2 - 3 months after commencement at the address indicated on the graduation application. For additional information, students may contact the Office of the Registrar and Records at 601.979.2300.

jackson state university | 22

Honors and Awards GRADUATION WITH ACADEMIC DISTINCTION Graduation with academic distinction is based on an earned average of 3.20 or higher on a 4.00 scale for work completed at Jackson State University for all undergraduates degrees. Students who graduate within this grade point average range are honored with the following: Summa Cum Laude Magna Cum laude Cum Laude

3.80 - 4.00 3.50 - 3.79 3.20 - 3.49

Graduates with academic distinction wear gold honor cords during the commencement exercises. Notes: A transfer student is eligible to be considered for honors provided: (1) the student has earned a minimum of 48 semester hours at Jackson State University prior to the semester of graduation; and (2) the student maintains a 3.20 or higher grade-point average for the coursework completed at Jackson State University. Students who already hold a baccalaureate degree are not eligible for this distinction.

††† Denotes Summa Cum Laude graduate †† Denotes Magna Cum Laude graduate † Denotes Cum Laude graduate

23 | 2023 fall commencement

W.E.B. Du BoisMaria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Honors College The W.E.B. Du Bois-Maria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Honors College (Du Bois-Harvey Honors College) is an enhanced collegiate experience that facilitates leadership development through self, community and global awareness; involvement in scholarship that fosters uniqueness and decision-making maturity; research-based inquiry and discovery of solutions to local, national and international dilemmas; and immersion of techonolgy usage. The Du Bois-Harvey Honors College offers members an opportunity to: • Follow a program of study at a pace commensuate with their ability • Increase intellectual interaction among their peers, professors, and advisors • Provide the opportunity for experiential learning and research Graduation requirements for Du Bois-Harvey Honors College members: • Complete 30 hours of Honors courses and/or contracts with one hour in an Honors Colloquium • Participate annually in honors community service projects • Participate in a minimum of four honors enrichment sessions, monthly meetings, or activities annually • Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA

jackson state university | 24

W.E.B. Du BoisMaria Luisa Alvarez Harvey Honors College Graduates Maney Darby Kristi-Madison Fortson Jeremiah Friday Devin Johnson Demetria Labat Joshua Regan Jalen Smith

25 | 2023 fall commencement

2 0 2 3 fa l l c o m m e n c e m e n t

undergraduate candidates for degrees

jackson state university | 26

Bachelor of Business Administration ACCOUNTING Jah’Kara Lannese Aldridge, Memphis, TN Javon K. Blair, Houston, TX Devonta S. Davis, Union Springs, AL Asia Harris, Southaven, MS Jacobi Claudee’ Harris, Memphis, TN Jeronica Henrietta Kelly, Clinton, MS Cierra Larie Pickens, Lexington, MS Aja Catrice Purvis, Jackson, MS †††Victoria Altagracia Salazar, Phoenix, AZ Nalana Faber Simpson, McComb, MS †Myesha Brianna Stewart, Crystal Springs, MS †Kamisha VaToya Patrick Thames, Forest, MS ††Shalaine Monet Thompson, Carthage, MS †Alexus Alexandria White, Mendenhall, MS

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION Armoni Dominique Allen, Chicago, IL Destyn De’nae Baldwin, Grand Rapids, MI Kenneth Maurice Christian, Jackson, MS Parker DeLoach, Chicago, IL Dazsha M. Ester, Memphis, TN Ti’ara Gibson, Jackson, MS Benard T. Johnson Jr., St. Rose, LA Brittany Deanna Linburgen, Jackson, MS *Brooklin McKara Mays, Atlanta, GA Ronisha Ja’pearl Murray, Hazlehurst, MS Jasmine Martika D Naylor, Jackson, MS Aasia Monique Robinson, Oceanside, CA Amari Robinson, Little Rock, AR Allen Smith Jr., Paulina, LA ††Maya-Joy Thompson, Brampton, Ontario *Ryan Williams, Atlanta, GA Patricia Youngblood, Pelahatchie, MS

ENTREPRENEURSHIP Kristen Keshana Ellis, Pickens, MS

FINANCE Shawania Greene, Canton, MS Ameisha Shontell Harper, Pulaski, MS Braa Reiad Issa, Harvey, LA

MANAGEMENT Camry Davis, Goodman, MS Porsche Olivia Dunn, Petal, MS Jamal Hughes, Jackson, MS * Summer 2023 Conferment

27 | 2023 fall commencement

De’Vonte Darrell McSwine, Greenwood, MS Montreal Potter, Jackson, MS

MARKETING Jacobie Scott Graves, Jackson, MS Keri Nicole Hannah, Greenville, MS *Allan Owens, Indianola, MS Carol Cecilia Spencer, Madison, WI †††Greyson Z. Thompson, Denton, TX Andrea Troi Youngblood, Chicago, IL Jerri A. Haynes, Ed.D. Dean, College of Education and Human Development

bachelor of science CHILDCARE AND FAMILY EDUCATION Michael S. Baker, Marks, MS ††Cisley Timina Barksdale, Meridian, MS †LaKrystal Khristine Bell, Benton, LA *†Kenitra Bullie, Madison, MS †Igatarious Ineshia Common, Canton, MS †Melissa Durr-Smith, Hazlehurst, MS ††Shantell Edwards, Walnut Grove, MS Lakeisha Franklin, Chicago, IL Porchia L. Gordon, Greensburg, LA Sharita Hansford, Biloxi, MS *†Nathaniel M. Horton, Jackson, MS Lera M. Jones, Nettleton, MS †Ashanti Mayberry, Jackson, MS Korrina Morment, Canton, MS ††Teresa Ann Pickens, Bossier City, LA Shameka T. Ramiz, Ruleville, MS †Shervokie D. Seals, FarmHaven, MS †Olivia Shaw, Paulding, MS Mía Bianca Ivy Shepherd, Oxford, MS Jerica Lashell Smith, Memphis, TN ††Kena Span, Jackson, MS †††Shrie Stanford, Jackson, MS ††Andrea D. Taylor, Byram, MS ††Yaslynn Alizabeth Thomas, Jackson, MS †††Alexis House Walker, Bay Springs, MS ††Hyneisha L. Ward, Canton, MS ††Delesia M. Webb, Bay Springs, MS ††Alisha Anneice Wimberly, Jackson, MS

HEALTH, PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND RECREATION †Jason Colver Dixon, Brookhaven, MS Jarvis Kareem Durham, Jackson, MS Timontré De’Savior Graham, Mobile, AL ††Keylin Hakeem Holloway, Little Rock, AR

Lynina Chandrise Miller, Detroit, MI Aimee Smith, Flora, MS †Rayven Nicole Stewart, Little Rock, AR Cameron Anthony Strickland, Memphis, TN Janiya Alexis Danae Sumrell, Columbus, GA †MacKenzie Taylor, East Saint Louis, IL Isis Corinunna Sheay Tolliver, Jackson, MS Cariana D. Weathersby, Jackson, MS Kelvin Wesley Jr., Houston, TX

PROFESSIONAL INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES Omolara Dominique Alowooja, Chicago, IL Courtney Meshele Bilbrew, Ridgeland, MS *SenTareyus R. Bush, Hollandale, MS Daelan Alexander Caraway, Missouri City, TX Jade R. Chatman, Jackson, MS Celestyna Ruth Clark, Hamilton, Ontario Chelsie Ja’Sondra Coleman, Byram, MS *Michael C. Coleman II, Jackson, MS Latasha Collier, Yazoo City, MS †Cassundra Course, Jackson, MS Amber LaShae Cowans, Bentonia, MS *Miya Crump, Houston, TX Shani Maliaka Kibibi Dove, Meridian, MS Kassandra Michelle Floyd, Pinola, MS *††Kimberly Charisse Funchess, Jackson, MS Esaias Timothy William Guthrie, Wilmington, DE Andre Malik Hunt, Los Angeles, CA *Angel Runae Jackson, Richmond, CA Nina M Johnson, Pearl, MS Rufus Carl Jones II, Anniston, AL †Lola Jordan, Atlanta, GA †Andre Lee Jr., Canton, MS †Xavius Levy, Jackson, MS †††Cameron Jamaal Lewis, Bloomington, IL Jadarious Martin, Millbrook, AL ††Bret Mersman, White Lake, MI *Tre’ Vaughn Rodgers, Jackson, MS La’keria Smith, Canton, MS Stacey Lamar Smith, Hollandale, MS Sandra F. Tall, Yazoo City, MS ††Marley Thompson, Brampton, Ontario Tru Cymon Thompson, Loganville, GA Angelica Monae Ward, Jackson, MS †Louis White, Hattiesburg, MS La’zhenryia Whitfield, Tuskegee, AL April Williams, Jackson, MS Willie James Young III, Greenwood, MS

Special Education †BreAsia TaCira Alexander, Cincinnati, OH Ganiat R. Demu, Cincinnati, OH

college of business | COLLEGE OF EDUCATION AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT

Fidelis M. Ikem, Ph.D. Dean, College of Business

bachelor of Science in Education Elementary Education Brianna Victoria Bailey, Jackson, MS ††Taliyana Bryant, North Little Rock, AR †D’Nesha Dunn, Augusta, GA †Tamera Haynes, Aberdeen, MS Dwayne Jefferson, Jackson, MS *†Jermey Keyshawn Lynn, Jackson, MS †Diavion Mosley, Raymond, MS Kiandra Markia Reed, Dolton, IL ††JaNy’Briel Rockett, Jackson, MS †Ivory Monique Taylor, Canton, MS †Jayla A. Vaughn, Powder Springs, GA *†Tionne D. Warren, New Orleans, LA †††Alecia Dominique Washington, Bolingbrook, IL

Social Science Education ††Maleah Dawn Skipper Briggs, Jackson, MS *††Michael J. Brooks, II, Canton, MS Kajuan Burton, Dallas, TX Tanea Alleter Harris, St. Louis, MO

bachelor of university studies University Studies Tiffany Rena’ Allen-Barner, Jackson, MS Terri Lashay Anderson, Horn Lake, MS Michelle Brockington, Clinton, MS *Alberta Evon Edwards, Rolling Fork, MS Autrey Frazier Jr., Indianola, MS †Gwendolyn Carson Morgan, Carthage, MS London L. Smith, Sr., Canton, MS *†††Jonathan Jermaine Tillman, Sr., Grenada, MS

Russell Bennett, Ph.D. Interim Dean, College of Health Sciences School of Public Health; School of Social Work

bachelor of science

COMMUNICATIVE DISORDERS Zhari Conner, Jackson, MS Zondria Lanaii Peeler, Greenwood, MS

HEALTHCARE ADMINISTRATION †††Kire Eriyan Allen, McComb, MS †Coretta L. Anderson, Indianola, MS Summer Batchelor, Jackson, MS Alexis DeAnglis Boyd, Pelahatchie, MS †Alisha Essietina Brothers, Greenville, MS ††Christina Rose Buliox, Ridgeland, MS Voneisha Latrece Bullock, Byram, MS †Cornelius Cox, Drew, MS †††Dawn Baldwin Cuello, Clinton, MS †††Tierra Davis, Harvey, LA BreLynda Daniels, Edwards, MS †††London Elise Devaul, Houston, TX †Natasha Evans, Jackson, MS ††Nashonna Kelly, Bolton, MS ††Takia Lloyd, Rock Island, IL Shamiya Keshel Logan, Bolton, MS ††Deanna Larie McGee, Utica, MS *Danielle Marie Nelson, Jackson, MS †Elisa McGee, Hattiesburg, MS Linda R. Ratliff, Port Gibson, MS Christina Shores, Pearl, MS Mia Antonette Singleton, Natchez, MS DeAisha Alaya Strong, West Point, MS De’Oshia Strong, West Point, MS ††Contanza G. Thompson, Long Beach, CA †Asia Wells, Grand Prairie, TX ††CaDeidra Lashay West, Jackson, MS Aaron Williams, Shreveport, LA †Kellie Mitchell Williams, Jackson, MS

bachelor of social work

†††Maney Riddle Darby, West Point, MS TyJae Derriel Espadron, New Orleans, LA ††Melia Amira Everett, Gulfport, MS Darrien Elizabeth Hardnett, Columbus, GA †††Taryn Courtnei Chanel Jackson, Jackson, MS †Sengrid Jones, Vicksburg, MS †Christopher Rashad Lacking, Jackson, MS †Shaqueena Loper, Forest, MS †Breeon Madison, Jackson, MS Damonica Denise Mcabee, Jackson, MS Kelsey J. McAlpine, Yazoo City, MS †Beyonce McGee, Jackson, MS †††Ji’Mesha Shaunta Meeks, Madison, MS ††Carolyn Elaine Mitchell, Pearl, MS †Racquel Parks, Rock Island, IL ††Aliyah Janessa Perkins, St. Louis, MO Jada Marie Pierce, Monticello, MS †Asia Dacoria Purvis, Jackson, MS Nishiya Saunders, Chicago, IL ††Nija Tamira Scott, Raymond, MS †Crystal Smith, Jackson, MS ††Raven Simone Turner, Vicksburg, MS ††Milalai J. Walden, Jackson, MS Torri Walton-Franklin, Batesville, MS ††Renata C. Weathersby, Liberty, MS ††Dannielle S. White, Clinton, MS ††Nyah Nicole Wheatley, Leland, MS LaCordia Williams, Forest, MS Rico D. Chapman, Ph.D. Dean, College of Liberal Arts

bachelor of arts ART ††Mia Cherie Burton, Hattiesburg, MS Capryka Monique Hunt, Memphis, TN Imani Luceare’ Major, Vicksburg, MS †Lee W. Payton, Brandon, MS ††Dallas Idelle Renfroe, Raymond, MS

Foreign Languages *†MariaJose Jaramillo Camargo, Rio Rico, AZ

SOCIAL WORK

HISTORY

Taylor Banyard, Clinton, MS †Takayla Tashyra Blanchard, Ruleville, MS †Jessica Bradford, Senatobia, MS Jalen Brown, Chicago, IL ††Janetria Burnett, Jonestown, MS †Kasshanda Bush, Columbus, MS †††Trenier R. Coleman, Mobile, AL JaNiah Tre’Chon Curtis, Port Gibson, MS

Daniel H. Hopkins, Chicago Heights, IL Keyshon Clayborn Washington, Jackson, MS

POLITICAL SCIENCE †Briana Banks, Jackson, MS †††Kennadie Larryn Boykin, St. Louis, MO †Jordyn Jackson, St. Louis, MO Ayla M. Marr, Memphis, TN

* Summer 2023 Conferment jackson state university | 28

SOCIOLOGY Sharé Antrice Baker, Biloxi, MS Brandon Haston, Douglasville, GA *Jabriya Mylah Muhammed Lawanny, South Holland, IL †††Traycee Scott-Williams, Gulfport, MS *††Joshua Short, Greenville, MS

bachelor of music MUSIC Kaleb Shawn Clark, Natchitoches, LA Edward Dacosta George Dorman, Port Charlotte, FL *Asia Nova Maclin, Memphis, TN †Rigel Robinson Jr., Jackson, MS ††Jacobi Williams, Jackson, MS

bachelor of music education MUSIC EDUCATION

Jamiah M. Caise, Memphis, TN Kameron Dyue Roberson, Raleigh, NC

bachelor of science CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND CORRECTIONAL SERVICES †††Cordarius D’Vante Olando Burks, Jackson, MS *†MariaJose Jaramillo Camargo, Rio Rico, AZ *†††Aaron D. Conley, West Point, MS Christa Nicole Davis, Atlanta, GA †Justice Grisby, Lexington, MS Auriyanna Harris, Cincinnati, OH ††Kyle Logan Hubbard, Utica, MS *Nia Kitrell Hughes, Memphis, TN *Douglas Johnson, Byram, MS †Paigelyn Jermeier Jordan, Jackson, MS †Fellow F. Lewis Jr., Charlotte, NC †Jordan Jamaal Lewis, Hattiesburg, MS JoaQimein A’Tariantai Qitres Martin, CrystalSprings, MS *†Chelsea Danee McAfee, Jackson, MS †††Estrella Citlalli Mondragon, Houston, TX

*Keveon Mullins, Memphis, TN ††Aliza Marshea Myers, Brandon, MS *Brochelle D. Nash, New Orleans, LA Jacob Landon Ryals, Jackson, MS †††Kyla Sands, Alta Loma, CA Estrella Dionne Smith, Hazlehurst, MS *†††Tionna R. Taylor, San Tan Valley, AZ Sherita Monai Tillman, Lexington, MS *††Tamra Lynn Tillman, Cocoa, FL ††De’Naja Tipler, Omaha, NE ††Destiny Vargas, Pearl, MS Kentaria S. Wansley, Jackson, MS DeAsia Makayla Williams, Jackson, MS JaCatherine Wilson, Meridian, MS Samantha S. Wilson, Louise, MS Tamara Michelle Woods, Jackson, MS

Journalism and Media Studies Rander Phillip Adams, Jackson, MS Kaitlyn Marie Alexander, Jackson, MS Jalan Braxton, Vicksburg, MS Joliyah Marsé Daughtry, Jackson, MS *Ashlyn Danielle Douglas, Shreveport, LA ††Nadi Greene, Atlanta, GA Myha Harris, Tulsa, OK Evan Michael Henry, Dallas, TX ††Eddie Lee Howard III, Vicksburg, MS Eric Jackson, Chicago, IL Tiara Leflore, Jackson, MS Julian Lott, Harvey, IL Jordan Anthony Martin, Chicago, IL †Jordyn Shante’ McDonald, Wiggins, MS Christopher Parker, Decatur, GA ††Kelsei Brianna Scott, Baton Rouge, LA Mellve Shahid, St. Louis, MO *Whitley M. Smith, Elkhart, IN Dara Nichole Tuggle, Hernando, MS †DeMorrius Terrell Washington, Jackson, MS †Ayliahna Gabrielle Wilson, Brandon, MS †Nicholas Wright, Pearl, MS

PSYCHOLOGY *†Jalisa Joann Barnes, Collins, MS Jada Marie Bronson, Jackson, MS Mykia Shuntrell Cannon, Tupelo, MS †††Gavon James Clemons, Brownwood, TX †††Maney Riddle Darby, West Point, MS †††Kristi-Madison Fortson, Conroe, TX *Caleb Haley, New Orleans, LA Jhontae Jones, Columbus, MS *Mikinya Aiyonna LaGrone, Grand Rapids, MI MiKayla Kiambrial Laster, Jackson, MS JaMaya Rand, Pearl, MS Antonio Octavius Rattley, Winston-Salem, NC †††Megan Richardson, Madison, MS *††Remaz Sahtout, Madison, MS

†Keira Myeisha Marie Smith, Carson, MS Jada Shanae Speight, Grand Rapids, MI †Amaria Byonce Sumler, Byram, MS †Ayanna N. Veal, Chicago, IL Marlon Warner, Terry, MS †Latimoris Zhaki White, Jackson, MS

Speech †††Alora Dannon Arnold, Wiggins, MS Wilbur L. Walters, Jr., Ph.D. Dean, College of Science, Engineering, and Technology

bachelor of science BIOLOGY Michael Charles Banks, New Orleans, LA Ja’Quan Tyrese Barrett, Collins, MS †Chantae Blackwood, Ft. Lauderdale, FL ††Cordarrius D. Carter, Yazoo City, MS Obriana KeAusha Chovè Davis, Olive Branch, MS Kiana Rene’ Ervin, Terry, MS Tuderrell Fonda Ford, Walls, MS Rowlando Garrett, Jackson, MS Allyea La’Shay Harris, Chicago, IL Abria S. Henderson, Carthage, MS Ah’Shawnta Hylton, Atlanta, GA †I’mani Jackson, Little Rock, AR Nizjanae Sanae Marie King, Grand Rapids, MI Destiny Marshall, Blytheville, AR Destiny C. Maxwell, Brookhaven, MS Jamiah A. McKinzie, Hazlehurst, MS Jayla A. Nolen, Chicago, IL Jade Takena Portis, Brandon, MS ††Joshua Mikal Regan, Hattiesburg, MS Diamond Cashmere Mokena Sandifer, Chicago, IL *†McKenzie Reese Sandifer, Arcola, MS †Scotavia Brenae Shaver, Detroit, MI ††Caiah A. Smith, Atlanta, GA Kennedi Raine Stewart, Jackson, MS *Aliya Tarver, Chicago, IL †Austin L. Taylor, Jackson, MS *Kaiya Louise Wall, Adrian, MI Drevone Walton, Chicago, IL *Danielle Naomi Watson, Chicago, IL *†Verkeita Wiley, Holmes County, MS Carrisha Etavia Williams, Byram, MS †Jakai K. Williams, Greenville, MS

* Summer 2023 Conferment 29 | 2023 fall commencement

COLLEGE OF health sciences | college of liberal arts | college of science, engineering & technology

Trevion Dequan Murray, Byram, MS

Biomedical Engineering †††Demetria Canaan Labat, Gulfport, MS Tynaria Moore, Hollandale, MS

Civil Engineering †Azalia Tazralay Andrea Aurora Jones, Alice, TX

Computer Engineering ††Rony Akhter, Madison, MS Mya Nicole Creese, Torrance, CA Tychicus T. Johnson, Columbus, MS Brian M. Jones, Port Gibson, MS Christopher Jamal Pope, Crystal Springs, MS †Jalen Miles Smith, Kansas City, MO

Computer Science †Ari Le’on Avant, Nashville, TN Korderrick Davis, Shelby, MS †††Devin Johnson, Hollandale, MS †Jerrionna Dimitria Jones, Park Forest, IL ††Jaden Stanton, Slidell, LA †Zachary Dunnell Tate, Lawrenceville, GA

Electrical Engineering Meranda Butler, Mobile, AL ††Jeremiah Friday, Madison, MS ††De’Quanté De’Shawn Miller, Huntsville, AL †Devin C. Trunnell, Jackson, MS

Industrial Technology *Shelby Annie-Jean Augustine, Monroe, LA *†Debreco Deqwan Davis, Yazoo, MS ††Arianna Lashay Toyea Dunlap, Maywood, IL Chad Ornesto Foster, Jackson, MS ††Willie E. McGriggs, Utica, MS Kentory Condrevius Rockett, Jackson, MS †††Brian Thomas Shook, Jackson, MS Mackenzie Eli Stamps, St. Louis, MO Justin Terel Washington, Mobile, AL

Mathematics Austin Jalil Fields, Castro Valley, CA Sean R. Scott, East Saint Louis, IL

* Summer 2023 Conferment

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Board of Trustees MISSISSIPPI INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING Alfred Rankins, Jr., Ph.D., Commissioner of Higher Education Greenville, Mississippi

BOARD MEMBERS Alfred E. McNair, Jr., M.D., President Ocean Falls, Mississippi Bruce Martin, Vice President Meridian, Mississippi Ormella Cummings, Ph.D. Tupelo, Mississippi Steven Cunningham, M.D. Hattiesburg, Mississippi Tom Duff Hattiesburg, Mississippi Teresa Hubbard Oxford, Mississippi Jeanne Carter Luckey Chip Morgan Stoneville, Mississippi Gee Ogletree, J.D. Jackson, Mississippi Hal Parker Bolton, Mississippi Gregory Rader Columbus, Mississippi J. Walt Starr, DMD Columbus, Mississippi

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Jackson State University Executive Cabinet and Academic Deans Executive cabinet Marcus L. Thompson, Ph.D., President Alisa Mosley, Ph.D., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Fran’Cee Brown-McClure, Ph.D., Vice President for Student Affairs Howard Brown, Vice President for Business and Finance, Chief Financial Officer Gwen Caples, Interim Vice President for Division of Institutional Advancement & External Affairs Deborah F. Dent, Ph.D., Chief Information Officer for Division of Information Technology Mickie Parker, Interim Executive Director of Human Resources Ashley Robinson, Vice President and Director of Athletics Linda Rush, Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management Vance Siggers, Ph.D., Interim Executive Director of Campus Operations Alonda Thomas, Chief Communications Officer and Associate Vice President for Marketing and Communications Edward Watson, J.D., General Counsel Joseph Whittaker, Ph.D., Vice President for Research and Economic Development

deans Fidelis Ikem, Ph.D., College of Business Jerri A. Haynes, Ed.D., College of Education and Human Development Russell Bennett, Ph.D., (Interim) College of Health Sciences Rico Chapman, Ph.D., College of Liberal Arts Wilbur Walters, Jr., Ph.D., College of Science, Engineering and Technology Preselfannie McDaniels, Ph.D., Graduate Studies Locord D. Wilson, Ph.D., (Interim) Libraries

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Jackson State University Seal and Mace THE SEAL The University Seal was designed by Freddy Norman, graphic artist. The Seal displays the University’s motto: Excellentia, Academica, Investigatio et Officium (Academic Excellence, Research, and Service). Three significant elements are presented in the design. At the center of the configuration is a winged torch. The flame signifies the light of learning and the search for truth. It leaps upward, borne aloft by outspread wings symbolic of the quest for excellence. Within the wing on the left side is an open book symbolic of research and publication. The globe inscribed within the wing on the right side symbolizes the University’s commitment to service to the state, the nation, and the world. The year 1877 represents the founding date of the university. The laurel wreath, which is reminiscent of the victor’s crown awarded to the best competitors in the arts and sciences during the Classical Era, encircles the design and represents the pursuit of excellence in every field. On March 15, 1974, the Seal was revised to include the institution’s university designation.

THE MACE The Mace was originated and first used in Egypt, where it represented creativeness, achievement, and the assertive tendency in man. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a weapon of war. Today, however, the mace represents deputized authority and dignity. The Jackson State University Mace is carried in all formal University convocations. It was carved from a piece of solid American black walnut. The upper portion of the Mace is in the shape of a pentagon and contains the University’s logo and Seal. Dr. Sam Cobbins, retired Professor of Technology and Industrial Arts, designed and constructed the Jackson State University Mace.

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The Presidential Chain of Office and Medallion THE presidential Chain of office The Chain of Office is a symbol of office dating from medieval times. It is worn by the President with academic regalia on ceremonial occasions. The Chain of Office honors the highest official at an educational institution as a symbol of leadership and responsibility vested in that office. The Chain of Office for Jackson State University’s President is made of antiqued silver plated bronze metal and is made up of curved banners engraved with the names of the University’s previous presidents. From the chain hangs a medallion. A banner engraved with the President’s name is located at the center of the chain directly above the University Medallion. This banner is adorned with a leaf and inscribed with the year representing the President’s first year in office.

THE presidential Medallion Traditionally, the medallion is a symbol of academic leadership. It is one of the oldest symbols of authority. The medallion is worn by the President as part of his/ her presidential regalia at commencement and other ceremonial occasions at the University. It symbolizes the President’s authority as the highest officer of the University. The medallion is inscribed with the Jackson State University Seal, which represents the Office of the President and the University’s commitment to academic excellence, research and service. The three-inch circular medallion is made of antiqued silver-plated bronze metal with blue enamel. This unique mount represents a single-faced imagery in bas-relief creating a two-level projection with the three significant elements in the overall design encircled by the laurel wreath. At the center of the configuration is a winged torch. The flame signifies the light of learning and the search for truth. It leaps upward borne aloft by outspread wings symbolic of the quest for excellence. Within the wing on the left side is an open book symbolic of research and publication; the globe inscribed within the wing on the right side symbolizes the University’s commitment to service to the state, the nation and the world. The year 1877 represents the founding date of the University. The laurel wreath, which encircles the design, represents the pursuit of excellence in every field.

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The Academic Costume ACADEMIC REGALIA The custom of wearing academic regalia stems from the Middle Ages when scholars were also clerics and wore the costumes in their Monastic orders. The most common headpiece for the ceremony is the black square, flat topped or mortar board which is shaped like a board of the mason which holds the mortar. The tassel on the doctor’s cap is usually gold in color and is worn on the left. The tassel on the master’s cap is usually black and is also worn on the left. The tassel on the bachelor’s cap, usually black, is worn on the right prior to graduation, then moved to the left when instructed by the presiding officer. The hood, which is mentioned as early as 1480 in clerical literature, was originally used as a head covering, a shoulder cape, and a bag in which alms could be collected. The gown is usually black. The traditional doctor’s gown has velvet panels down the front and three velvet bars on the sleeves. The master’s gown has no velvet but does have unusually long sleeves. The bachelor’s gown is similar to the master’s but has regular length sleeves which are pointed. Some gowns may be the color of the department granting the degree, such as “Education Blue.” Others may be “Yale Blue” or “Harvard Crimson” for graduates of these universities.

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Academic Degrees THE BACHELOR’S DEGREE A bachelor’s degree is the first academic degree that is conferred by a university to students who have completed the undergraduate coursework of study. The bachelor’s degree is sometimes called a baccalaureate degree. This degree is the most common type of college degree awarded by institutions of higher learning in the United States. The bachelor’s degree provides students with a foundation for entering many professional career fields and for further education.

THE master’S DEGREE The master’s degree is an academic degree that is conferred by a university to students who have successfully completed one or two years of approved course work beyond that of the bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree candidates are expected to exhibit and demonstrate mastery of a specialized body of theoretical and applied subject matter. A thesis or a project is usually required in many master’s degree programs.

THE specialist DEGREE The specialist degree is common in many education and psychology programs. It is conferred by a university to students who have completed academic study beyond the master’s level and below the doctorate level.

THE doctoral DEGREE The doctoral degree is the highest of the academic degrees conferred by a university. It is offered in most fields of study. Doctoral degrees include the professional degree and the research degree. The professional doctoral degree calls for advanced training for the practice in professional fields such as medicine, pharmacy, law or nursing. The research doctorate requires approximately four years of advanced study and independent research. The years of study and excellent research are typically accompanied by a dissertation. The doctoral candidate is expected to make a contribution to the body of knowledge in the field of study.

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The Academic Procession The academic procession dates back to the Middle Ages when universities were closely associated with the Medieval Church. Since that time, the academic procession has become a treasured tradition in higher education institutions. During the academic procession, university officers and others related to the university march in formal university events in academic regalia. The pageantry of the academic procession is a featured part of commencement programs and other formal university events. The Academic Procession is generally initiated by the university’s mace bearer. During commencements, the mace bearer is generally followed by the chief faculty marshal. The academic procession brings into the arena the President, other officials of the university, representatives from the governing board, the guest speaker, college deans, other platform guests, administrators, faculty and graduating students.

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Senior Class Officers 2023 Fall Semester Austin Rolfe, Mister Jackson State University Lauren Temple, Miss Jackson State University Cole Harris, Mister Senior Crishonti Thornton, Miss Senior Jason Johnson, SGA President Daylen Glover, President Alexandria Williams, Vice President Mr. Brent Harris, Advisor

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Graduate Student Leadership 2023 fall semester Daija Green, President Austin Pierce, Vice President Dwan Johnson, Secretary Robiul Alam, Membership Reneisha Sweet, Treasurer Akinola Gonzalez, Parliamentarian Ms. Deborah Washington, Advisor Mr. Byron Quick, Advisor

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Jackson State University 2023 Fall Graduate/Undergraduate Commencement Exercises COMMENCEMENT MACE BEAREr Dr. Dawn McLin

president’s standard BEAREr Dr. Michael Robinson

Administration Standard Bearer Dr. LaToya Hart

college standard bearers College of Business Dr. Okechukwu Anyamele College of Education and Human Development Dr. Albert Carter College of Health Sciences Dr. Terrell Brown College of Liberal Arts Mr. Mark Geil College of Science, Engineering and Technology Dr. Teresa Demerrite Division of Graduate Studies Dr. Ramon Jackson

chief/assistant Marshals Chief Marshal Dr. William Brown Assistant Marshals Don Spann Dr. Deidre Wheaton Dr. DeSuan Dixon Dr. Dion Porter Dr. Joon Young Lee

Undergraduate and graduate Student/faculty Marshals College of Business Greyson Thompson Victoria Salzar Sheldon Alston Mohammed Ibrahim Dr. Joann White Dr. Donald Causey

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College of Education and Human Development Alecia Washington Janybriel Rockett Lebethani May Taylor Fry Dr. Alfonzo Haralson Dr. Kenya Horne College of Health Sciences Tiffany Jones Nicole N. Rollen Tierra Davis Taryn Jackson Dr. Vincent Mendy Dr. Yalanda Barner College of Liberal Arts Kennadie Boykin Chrystal McLaurin Shana Halloway Jessica Vaughn Dr. Mark Henderson Dr. Gloria Billingsly College of Science, Engineering and Technology Dejaun Parker Kortnie Starling Demetria Labat Willie McGriggs Dr. Felicite Noubissi-Kamdem Dr. Berneece Herbert

Readers

Dr. Ebony Lumumba Dr. Fran ‘Cee Brown-McClure Michelle Boyd Brent Harris

American Sign Language Interpreters Vicki Lewis Tiffany Leach

COMMENCEMENT PROGRAM Yolanda T. Brown

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2023 Fall Commencement committee Mrs. Frankie Adams Dr. Mario Azevedo Dr. Galina Bennett Dr. Russell Bennett, Ex-Officio Ms. Michelle Boyd Lt. Colonel Rodgers Brown Dr. William Brown Dr. Rico Chapman, Ex-Officio Mrs. Dionne Conner Dr. Deborah Dent, Ex-Officio Mrs. Ayanna Evans Dr. La’Tonia Harper Mr. Brent Harris Colonel Rodgers Brown, Jr. Mrs. Meagan Tolliver-Dixon Dr. Jerri Haynes, Ex-Officio Dr. Pamala Heard Ms. Kamesha Hill Mr. David Howard Dr. Fidelis Ikem, Ex-Officio Dr. Tangelia Kelly Dr. Preselfannie McDaniels, Ex-Officio

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Dr. Tony Latiker, Ex-Officio Mr. Spencer McClenty Dr. Dawn McLin Dr. Fran’Cee Brown-McClure, Ex-Officio Mrs. Misti Munroe Dr. Alisa Mosley, Ex-Officio Dr. Dion Porter, Chair Dr. Sheila Porterfield, Ex-Officio Dr. Aaron Richardson Dr. Lisa Beckley-Roberts Dr. Michael Robinson Mr. Don Spann Captain Eric Stanton Mrs. Tammi Taylor Mrs. Rachel James-Terry Ms. Alonda Thomas Ms. Lakeshia Tubbs Dr. Wilber Walters Jr., Ex-Officio Ms. Sherree White Dr. Carlos Wilson, Ex-Officio Dr. Locord Wilson, Ex-Officio Ms. Carol Woodson

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THEE I LOVE my dear old college home

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