Seniors Iyunola Owoyemi and Kalon Johnson selected as White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and University 2021 HBCU Scholars

Seniors Iyunola Owoyemi and Kalon Johnson selected as White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and University 2021 HBCU Scholars

Two Alcorn State University scholars are among a group of talented scholars recognized for their commitment to excellence.

Seniors Iyunola Owoyemi, an English major from Ekiti, Nigeria, and Kalon Johnson, an agriculture economics major from Pickens, Mississippi, are the University’s White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities 2021 HBCU Scholars. The program recognizes 86 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students for their accomplishments in academics, leadership, civic engagement, and much more.

Over the academic school year, the HBCU Scholars will serve as ambassadors of the Initiative at their respected institutions. The Initiative will provide scholars with information about the value of education as well as networking opportunities. Scholars can also share these resources with their fellow students.

Alcorn’s 20th President, Dr. Felecia M. Nave, praised the scholars for their unwavering dedication to uphold the standards of excellence of an Alcornite.

“I am thrilled that Iyunola and Kalon have been recognized among the nation’s most talented student-scholars,” said Nave. “These extraordinary students have excelled inside and outside of the classroom despite the unprecedented challenges of a worldwide pandemic. They have displayed courage, resiliency, and determination that exemplify Alcorn’s spirit. The University is proud of their accomplishments and their commitment to high-achievement and excellence.”

The accomplishment is one that both scholars cherish. For Owoyemi, the recognition inspires her to pursue leadership further and set a good example for her peers.

“I am incredibly humbled and challenged to serve my community even more,” said Owoyemi. “With this accomplishment comes a great responsibility of leading empathetically, and I am excited to shoulder this responsibility with fellow scholars.”

Seeing the results of his hard work makes this accomplishment special for Johnson.

“It feels amazing to be named a White House Initiative Scholar,” said Johnson. “To be recognized nationally is huge. This accomplishment is a testament to my hard work and dedication to my studies. The work is paying off.”