Alcorn State University kicked off the new academic year with its annual Fall Faculty and Staff Institute, a three-day event designed to prepare employees for the upcoming school year.
The institute, held from Aug. 11-13, 2025, provided professional development sessions focused on leadership, technology, and teaching strategies.
“This event allows our faculty and staff to connect and engage in meaningful dialogue as we begin a new academic year,” said Alcorn State University President Dr. Tracy M. Cook. “We want to ensure that both our new and returning colleagues feel energized and ready to support our students.”
The keynote speaker, Dr. Stephanie Duguid, presented “Emotional Intelligence Habits in Action: Assess, Apply and Accelerate Your Workplace,” where she discussed the importance of emotional intelligence in building professional and personal relationships. “We are focusing on how emotional intelligence affects the workplace, both professionally and personally,” Duguid said. “It’s all about relationship building, being honest, and truthfully authentic.”
Attendees also received a copy of Dr. Travis Bradberry’s book, Emotional Intelligence Habits, and had the opportunity to attend workshops led by various speakers. Dr. Kevin Dettmar, W.M. Keck professor of English and director of the Humanities Studio at Pomona College, delivered presentations titled “Mentoring Colleagues Across the Career Arc” and “Dealing with Interpersonal Conflict.”
He focused on helping department chairs and other leaders understand the operational dynamics of the university.
“In higher education, we sometimes mystify the structures of a university for our students,” said Dettmar. “My goal is to demystify the dynamics within departments and the challenges faculty often face.”
The institute also recognized employees for their service. Dr. Latuesday Guy, assistant professor and director of the Business Administration Program, received the Faculty Excellence Award. Denise Moore, administrative assistant I – Advanced Technology, who has served the university for more than 40 years, was honored with the Staff Excellence Award for her work with the robotics program’s accreditation efforts.
After a successful three days of engagement and learning, the Fall Faculty and Staff Institute concluded with staffers prepared and motivated for the new academic year.
