Alcorn State University held its 86th Annual Honors Convocation on Thursday, March 27, themed “Striving for Excellence,” at the historic Oakland Memorial Chapel. The event recognized students for academic dedication and personal growth.
Dr. John E. Walls Jr., an Alcorn alumnus and retired educator with over 40 years of public education experience, gave the keynote address. Walls, from Philipp, Mississippi, encouraged students to define their own excellence and stressed the importance of personal accountability and integrity.
“Excellence is subjective,” Walls said. “Only you will know when you have achieved it. Set realistic goals, know your strengths and weaknesses, and always strive to improve. Focus on your mental and physical health, and be mindful of the company you keep.”
Walls used analogies to make his points relatable and clear, sharing, “A basketball in my hand is worth about $19. In Steph Curry’s hand, it’s worth $55 million. It depends on whose hands it’s in.” He urged students to place their worries and dreams in a higher power’s hands.
Walls concluded by encouraging students to take responsibility for their futures and use their knowledge to positively impact their communities. “Put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your dreams, and your relationships in God’s hands,” he said.
The convocation recognized 211 President’s Scholars and 478 Dean’s Scholars for the spring 2024 semester, and 216 President’s Scholars and 560 Dean’s Scholars for the fall 2024 semester.
“This moment is a celebration of your hard work and perseverance,” said Dr. Wandra Arrington, director of the Myrlie Evers-Williams Honors Program. “We are proud of your accomplishments and excited to see what the future holds for each of you.”
A full list of spring and fall 2024 President’s and Dean’s Scholars is available at www.alcorn.edu/academics/presidents-and-deans-scholars/.
