Alcorn State University alumnae Manola C. Erby and Teresa Palmer-Jones were recognized for their decades of service at the United Way of the Capital Area’s Women United Excellence Awards luncheon, held Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the Westin Hotel. Their work, focused on health, wellness, and education, underscores the enduring impact of community leadership.
Erby received the Excellence in Health and Wellness Award. As assistant director for the Alcorn State University Extension Program’s 1890 4-H initiatives, she has spent over 40 years empowering at-risk children and families. “This award isn’t just a personal honor,” Erby stated, “it validates the power of dedicating oneself to health and wellness. Knowing my work has made a difference is incredibly rewarding.”
Palmer-Jones, director of JSU TRIO Talent Search, was presented with the Excellence in Education Award. Her passion for expanding educational opportunities in the capital area has transformed the lives of countless students. “My goal is to ignite a love of learning,” Palmer-Jones explained. “To inspire hope and show students the possibilities that lie before them.”
Palmer-Jones’ partnership with United Way has yielded significant results. Notably, she spearheaded the Author Summit featuring Angie Thomas, bringing a celebrated voice to local students. She also championed the “Soul Cafe” program, which has since been adopted by all high schools in Jackson Public Schools. “To see the impact of these initiatives, to witness students engaging with literature and finding their voices, is truly remarkable,” she said.
For Palmer-Jones, education is more than a profession; it’s a calling. “I’ve always wanted to teach,” she recalled, “especially to students from backgrounds like my own.” As a first-generation student from a single-parent household and a graduate of Jackson Public Schools, she understands the challenges her students face. “Alcorn State instilled in me the importance of a supportive learning environment,” she added. “I strive to provide that same support to my students and their families.”
Erby, reflecting on her long career, noted the deep satisfaction derived from community work. “Witnessing growth, seeing communities come together—that’s where the real joy lies,” she said. “It’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives.”
Erby earned a Bachelor of Science in home economics education from Alcorn State University in 1981 and a Master of Science in the same field from Iowa State University. Palmer-Jones received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Alcorn State University and a Master of Science in Education Administration and Supervision from Jackson State University.
