Alcorn President named first Grand Orator of Mississippi in 20 years
Alcorn State, Miss. (December 14, 2012) – Alcorn President, M. Christopher Brown II, Ph.D., has been appointed to serve as the Grand Orator for The Most Worshipful Stringer Grand Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall Affiliated, Jurisdiction of Mississippi, by Grand Master Maurice F. Lucas. President Brown is the first Grand Orator of Mississippi in 20 years.
President Brown was elevated to this esteemed position at the conclusion of his address to an oversold ballroom entitled “The Wise Build a Life” at the Annual Scholarship and Awards Banquet held in Jackson, Mississippi on December 2, 2012. This year nine students attending Mississippi colleges and universities were awarded nearly $30,000 in scholarships, including Alcorn State University’s own Jarvis D. Morrow.
“Brother Brown’s appointment comes at a critical time,” explains Grand Master Lucas. “It is vital that our publics are informed and understand our strong traditions of Masonic research and education. The position has been vacant for a number of years and we are delighted that a prominent scholar of Brother Brown’s caliber will lead us forward.”
Duties of the Grand Orator include the presentation of scholarly and/or inspirational lectures, as well as responsibility and oversight of presentations by others at public programs. The Orator is an Ambassador for the Grand Master who is also called upon to present speeches that celebrate fraternal milestones and issues of public concern (e.g., education, health, government, ethics, theology). The position of Grand Orator is a continuing appointment without term.
“I am humbled to have the opportunity to serve as Grand Orator. It is a privilege to serve in the tradition of Alcorn’s first president Hiram Revels — a master orator, statesman, and public servant. I believe in both education and community engagement. I hope that the words of my mouth will give voice to the conditions of the least heard with the most need,” said President Brown.
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Alcorn State University is a premier comprehensive land-grant university that develops diverse students into globally-competitive leaders, and applies scientific research through collaborative partnerships which benefit the surrounding communities, state, nation and world.
