Grandfather and grandson graduate 50 years apart

Grandfather, grandson graduate 50-years apart 

Dr. Charles Tillman, a member of the Alcorn State University Golden Class of 1962, was honored on Saturday, May 12, 2012, at Alcorn’s 141st Commencement Convocation in the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex, on the Lorman campus.

Dr. Tillman’s grandson, Elbert Garciea Vaughn II, was in attendance as well, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture.

It should be no surprise that Elbert’s degree is also in the field of agriculture.  Elbert is a third generation Alcornite and Dr. Tillman’s oldest grandchild.  Elbert’s mother and Dr. Tillman’s daughter, Dr. Cassandra Tillman Vaughn ’84, works as an assistant professor of animal science as well as the University’s veterinarian.

“I’m very excited about the whole situation and I am so delighted to keep the family tradition going,” Elbert says.   “My grandfather always encourages me to do my very best and he is my role model.”

Elbert’s short-term goal is to continue his education by striving to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps. 

 “I will begin my graduate studies in animal science at Alcorn in August 2012.  My future goal is to achieve my Ph.D. in animal science,” he says. 
Dr. Tillman worked at Alcorn from July 1976 through June 1996, beginning in Cooperative Extension and later as chairman of the Department of Agriculture.

He was the first in his family to graduate from high school, to receive Bachelor and Master degrees from Alcorn State University, and the first to receive a Ph.D., which was attained at Virginia Polytechnic University in Blacksburg, Virginia.

Dr. Tillman’s motto for success is to work hard, always give your best efforts, and to always encourage others to further their education. 

“Never give up, keep fighting and trying to move forward,” he says. 

tillman 50th 

From Left,  Dr. Charles Tillman ’62, Dr. Cassandra Tillman Vaughn ’84, assistant professor of animal science and ASU veterinarian  and Elbert G. Vaughn, II ’12 at ASU Commencement Convocation on Saturday, May 12, 2012.