Four Alcorn State University students have been accepted into the rigorous Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, a U.S. Department of Education initiative designed to support first-generation or historically underrepresented students as they pursue post-graduate studies.
This opportunity included a six-week intensive research internship at the University of Mississippi over the summer, preparing them for doctoral studies and a life of impact.
Alcorn State University is one of only three institutions in Mississippi funded by the U.S. Department of Education to host a McNair program. This program helps students overcome obstacles on their path to achieving a Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Environmental Science Monica Burr, Ed.D., who acted as a mentor, shared her pride in the students’ success. “The Alcorn 2025 McNair Scholars not only succeeded in a new academic setting, but they also gained practical knowledge that provides a solid foundation for their future,” Burr said.
The four Alcorn students selected for this year’s cohort of 29 participants are Berlenda, a junior social work major from New Orleans, La.; Jermerious Lofton, a senior mathematics major from Pascagoula, Miss.; De’Shawn Moody, a senior agriculture major from Port Gibson, Miss.; and Miranda Newby, a junior social work major from Hattiesburg, Miss.
Gelin, reflecting on the experience, highlighted the sense of community. “This program was one of the hardest yet most thrilling experiences of my life, and it taught me about resilience,” she said.
“Hearing the stories of others who faced similar struggles reminded me that I am not alone, giving me the courage to believe that I can overcome anything. We are truly a family here.”
Lofton emphasized how the experience is shaping him as a future trailblazer. “This has been a transformative experience that has challenged me academically and professionally, while providing access to research opportunities, mentorship, and a strong community of like-minded scholars,” Lofton stated.
“The program has pushed me to expand my knowledge, sharpen my leadership skills, and think more critically about the difference that I want to make in my field and community.”
Dr. Wandra Arrington, Director of the Myrlie Evers-Williams Honors Program at Alcorn State University, advises hundreds of undergraduate scholars annually, guiding them towards opportunities that encourage their full academic potential.
“This program is a wonderful chance for our students to network and collaborate with various universities to improve their research skills,” Arrington said.
“Research is a very important part of a student’s graduate studies, and we are happy to continue our relationship with the University of Mississippi to ensure that our students excel in this area.”
After McNair participants enroll in graduate school, their progress is tracked continuously until they complete their advanced degree. This initiative aims to expand access to Ph.D. programs for underrepresented students from disadvantaged backgrounds who have shown exceptional academic promise.
Through initiatives like the McNair Scholars Program, Alcorn State University continues to create pathways for students to achieve academic excellence while enriching their lives and positively transforming their communities.
