Alcorn State University conferred degrees on 283 graduates today during its Fall 2025 Commencement at the Davey L. Whitney HPER Complex.
Daryl Hammett, director of global delivery for AI platforms and security at Amazon Web Services and an Alcorn alumnus, delivered the keynote address and announced an unrestricted $26,000 donation to the university.
“Standing here today as an alumnus is one of the greatest honors of my life,” said Hammett, who earned a master’s degree at Alcorn. “I walked this very stage, I sat in those very stands.”
Hammett, who leads seven global teams at AWS focused on delivery, product solutions, innovations and security operations, paid tribute to his mother, a 1970 Alcorn graduate and the university’s first female industrial technology graduate, who was unable to walk during her own commencement due to financial struggles.
He told graduates his mother provided funds for him to return to school after he had dropped out and was working two jobs.
“You crossed this stage today at a time of tremendous change,” Hammett said. “Alcorn State University has already prepared you for the unknown. Our history is built on navigating uncertainty with strength.”
Following his address, Dr. Joyce Buckner-Brown, provost and vice president for academic affairs, presented Hammett with Alcorn’s highest degree, the Doctor of Humane Letters.
The ceremony also honored 61 members of the Class of 2000, marking their 25th anniversary. The class became the first 25th anniversary class to establish a scholarship endowment, presenting $13,266.42 to the Alcorn State University Foundation, Inc.
The check was presented by Dr. Marcus D. Ward, senior vice president for institutional advancement and executive director of the ASU Foundation, Inc., who is also a Class of 2000 member.
Hammett said the class inspired his donation, which doubled their contribution.
ArShayla Johnson, a Vicksburg native who graduated summa cum laude with a degree in English literature, received the Student Award of Excellence. The award includes $5,000 from the ASU Foundation.
“After graduation, I plan on continuing my education as I strive to obtain my master’s degree while also building a career that empowers future students and communities,” said Johnson.
Dr. Tracy M. Cook, Alcorn State president, told graduates to remain connected to the university.
“Stay focused, be great, remember the people who supported you, give back and don’t forget your beloved Alcorn State University,” Cook said.
