Alcorn recognizes honor students at 73rd Biannual Honors Convocation
Alcorn State University is known for producing academic scholars. On Thursday, March 24, 542 of the University’s finest students received accolades for their commitment to excellence in the classroom.
Students, faculty and staff assembled in the Oakland Memorial Chapel to celebrate 394 Dean’s Scholars and 148 President’s Scholars at the 73rd Biannual Honors Convocation. Wendy B. Scott delivered the keynote speech at the event. She is the eighth dean of the Mississippi College School of Law. A graduate of Harvard University and New York University School of Law, Scott taught at the North Carolina Central University’s School of Law for eight years, where she served as associate dean for Academic Affairs from 2009 to 2012. Prior to that position, she taught at Tulane Law School in New Orleans, Louisiana for 17 years and served as vice dean for Academic Affairs.
Scott began her speech by praising the scholars for their vow to attain academic excellence. She also went over some of the keys to being successful in school and society.
“Congratulations to the scholars being recognized for their outstanding academic achievements,” said Scott. “You all are here because you chose to strive for academic excellence. You must make a commitment to yourself to strive for excellence. Some people are influenced by their loved ones to reach their goals, but not everyone is so blessed with that encouragement. Whatever you may have experienced, you must do well. Don’t let people pull you down. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to succeed.”
After giving the audience great advice on what it takes to be successful, she reminded them to always remember those who paved the way for their current triumphs.
“Working hard, displaying discipline, making sacrifices and living a healthy lifestyle result in academic success. The knowledge that you have learned should be shared with those coming after you. We should never take all of the credit for our accomplishments because our forefathers sacrificed so much for us to be successful today.”
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Donzell Lee commended the scholars for reaching this point on their scholastic journeys.
“Alcorn would like to pause to honor its champions scholars,” said Lee. “On this day, we want to say thank you and congratulations for achieving the honors of President’s and Dean’s scholars. I am delighted to have you all here.”
Freshman, biochemistry major and President’s Scholar Robert Tatum Jr. showed pride in being part of an esteemed group of students who take academics seriously.
“I am honored to see that my hard work and dedication is paying off,” said Robert. “Seeing how many students are on the President’s and Dean’s Scholar list shows that Alcorn’s students don’t just come to college to have fun, but to also get an education.”
Junior, psychology major and President’s Scholar Joy Applewhite is happy to see the fruits of her labor.
“It’s a great honor because I work really hard to earn good grades,” said Joy. “All of my hard work has been worth it.”
Junior, agriculture major and Dean’s Scholar Destiny Crockett is pleased with her matriculation through college.
“It is an honor to be recognized for my academic achievements,” said Destiny. “Each day, I strive to be excellent and exemplify service, scholarship and dignity.”
