Kevin Washington, Dr. Benedict Udemgba to be recognized during the annual HEADWAE Program
Two representatives from Alcorn State University are set to receive recognition for their academic prowess and quality classroom leadership.
Kevin Washington, a senior business administration major, and Dr. Benedict Udemgba, a professor for Alcorn’s School of Business, will be honored at the 31st annual Higher Education Appreciation Day – Working for Academic Excellence (HEADWAE) Program Tuesday, Feb. 20 at the Jackson Marriott Hotel.
HEADWAE was established by the Mississippi Legislative Resolution to annually honor academically talented students and faculty members of Mississippi's higher education institutions who have made outstanding contributions in promoting academic excellence.
The goal of the Appreciation Day is to encourage excellence among those involved in higher education as a way to further leadership, increase knowledge across the broad spectrum of education, and promote good citizens capable of thriving in today's society who are prepared to meet future challenges.
Being a HEADWAE honoree is an achievement that Washington will always cherish.
“It felt great to know that all of the work I have put in is being recognized,” said Washington. “It is an honor to be recognized by the state of Mississippi and be given the opportunity to represent Alcorn State University.”
Washington’s drive to succeed, along with a strong support system, are factors that allow him to prosper in all of his endeavors.
“I have never really been someone who can do things half way; it has always been all or nothing for me. I came to Mississippi to focus on bettering myself, and regularly performing at the highest level that I am capable of is a part of that process. Aside from my desire to succeed, I am motivated by the people I care about and stand beside me through the good and bad times.”
Helping students reach their potential has been Udemgba's specialty during his years of service at Alcorn.
“My goal has always been to help people help themselves, and there is no better route than via human development,” said Udemgba. “In my many years at Alcorn, I have had countless opportunities to open doors to generations of students by challenging their minds in assisting them to achieve their desired goals.”
Udemgba applauds his fellow School of Business peers for going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the progress of students and surrounding communities.
“I, along with my colleagues at the School of Business, have been very feasible in business, economic and community development efforts in southwest Mississippi. We are champions in helping to promote financial literacy programs in communities within our educational corridor. This is what we do as a faculty; we stimulate and excite human minds to enable students to reach their potentials.”
