School of Education and Psychology holds Teacher Education Induction Ceremony

Student teachers in Alcorn State University’s School of Education and Psychology were introduced as official educators at the Schools’ undergraduate and graduate recognition ceremony Wednesday, May 4 at the Oakland Memorial Chapel. The keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Boyce Williams, president and CEO of the National Alliance for Learning, Inc.

Williams began her speech by applauding Dean Carr on leading the University to becoming the first and only Historically Black College or University to earn accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

“Under the leadership of Dean Carr, Alcorn stepped up to the plate to pursue CAEP accreditation,” said Williams. “You, along with your faculty, staff and students, are hot commodities because you are the only HBCU to earn accreditation for seven years from CAEP. No one can take that from you.”

Williams credited Drs. Malvin Williams, Josephine Posey and Rose McGowan for playing important roles in the students’ opportunity. She wanted the students to know who’s responsible for paving the way for them.

“You have to understand how you got to where you are and who paved the way for you. You need to understand the challenges that were overcome for you to be here.”

Williams’ final words to the graduates were to encourage them on their journey as teachers.

“You are ready to stand in front of a classroom and teach because you have met the requirements for a teaching license. You have a responsibility to make sure that your students learn and excel. Defy those limitations that people put on you. Connect with your students by reaching out to every child. Shadow your former teachers so that you can gain more knowledge. Don’t let anyone keep valuable information from you.”

Dean for the School, Dr. Robert Z. Carr Jr., acknowledged the importance of celebrating the student’s commitment to enhancing the minds of others.

“The teacher induction ceremony is an important event,” said Carr. “It acknowledges that teaching is a special profession made of men and women who are dedicated to educating our young people.”

Dr. Malinda Butler, associate dean of the School, gave credit to the students for being exceptional representatives of Alcorn.

“We are so proud of our students,” said Butler. “They represent the epitome of what we strive to achieve.”

Undergraduate recipient DeAnte’ Spann feels honored to come from such an esteemed program.

“I really enjoyed the teacher induction ceremony,” said DeAnte’. “I am so honored to have been a part of such a joyous occasion that celebrated likeminded professionals who will make a difference in the classroom as educators. I am truly blessed.”

Graduate recipient Johnathan Goldman applauded Williams on her speech and looks forward to progressing in his career.

“It’s great to finish the graduate program,” said Johnathan. “The speaker was wonderful. She was really dynamic. It‘s a great program. I’m really excited to graduate from it and I look forward to advancing in my teaching caree

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