Roddric Bell is the Director of the USDA Risk Management Agency’s Jackson Regional Office, where he oversees crop insurance operations across five states. He holds both a B.S. and M.S. in Agricultural Economics from Alcorn State University, graduating with the highest distinction. Roddric began his career with Alcorn Extension and has held key USDA roles in statistics, personnel, and congressional affairs. As one of ten regional directors nationally, he plays a vital role in advancing agricultural risk management. Roddric is also an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Robert “Bob” Cole is a retired USDA executive and educator based in Columbus, Ohio. He earned his degree in Agriculture Education from Alcorn State University and a Master’s from the University of Dayton. Bob served over 30 years with the USDA in Ohio, holding senior positions such as County Executive Director, District Director, and Acting State Executive Director. President Obama appointed him to the Ohio FSA Committee, and he is a former national president of the USDA’s professional employees organization. Bob is an engaged member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Terry Cosby is the Chief of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and has dedicated over 40 years to public service. A native of Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, he started his career as a student trainee and advanced through various ranks in multiple states. Before becoming Chief, he served as the State Conservationist for Ohio, where he focused on national hiring strategies for NRCS. A passionate conservationist, Terry carries on his family’s legacy of land stewardship and rural development. He is a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Christopher Givens Sr. is an Engineering Manager at Nissan North America, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in the automotive industry. Additionally, he serves as a City Alderman in North Carrollton, MS, and holds the position of President of the Montgomery-Carroll-Grenada Alcorn Alumni Association. A graduate of Alcorn State University (1995), Christopher is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., New Prospect Lodge #43, Grenada Consistory #194, and Alharran Temple #112 (Shriners). He is dedicated to civic engagement, alumni support, and workforce development.
Roosevelt Hawkins is a Field Representative and Caseworker for U.S. Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, focusing on rural communities in Hinds, Claiborne, and Holmes Counties. As a fourth-generation farmer from Bolton, MS, he advocates for sustainable agriculture, environmental justice, and rural development. Roosevelt earned his B.A. in History from Jackson State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Policy and Administration with a concentration in Environmental Policy. His commitment to agriculture has earned him recognition from the National Black Farmers Association and the Hinds County Small Cattlemen’s Club.
Rosalyn Howard is the Program Manager for Workforce Strategies at Entergy Corporation, where she leads strategic workforce initiatives and career readiness programs. Previously, she served as the Executive Director of the Mississippi Nurses Foundation for 14 years, spearheading statewide philanthropic efforts and healthcare workforce development. An alumna of Alcorn State University, she holds degrees in Educational Psychology and Counseling. Rosalyn is also a graduate of Leadership Mississippi, recognized as one of the Top 50 Business Women in Mississippi in 2013. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Ariel Knott is a recent graduate of Alcorn State University, where she earned a degree in Human Development and Family Science. She is known for her role as the 98th Miss Alcorn State University and her active participation in various campus initiatives, including athletics, service organizations, and academic societies. Ariel was a member of the Women’s Soccer Team, the National Society of Leadership and Success, IMPACT, and MANRRS. She has experience interning at the campus Child Development Learning Center and aspires to become a child life specialist and entrepreneur.
Mike McCormick is the President of the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation, representing over 177,000 families across the state. A lifelong farmer from Jefferson County, he has spearheaded significant infrastructure and policy changes in the agricultural sector. Mike serves on multiple national and state boards, including Farm Bureau Bank, American Agricultural Insurance Co., and the Alcorn State University Foundation. He has garnered numerous accolades, including the Mississippi State University Pegasus Award and recognition as one of the state’s Top 50 Most Influential People.
Zelmarine Murphy is a retired educator and a lifelong advocate for youth and education. With 47 years of professional experience in Mississippi and Louisiana, she served as an Instructional Supervisor in Tallulah, Louisiana, and currently sits on the Vicksburg-Warren School Board, where she has held the position of President for three terms. Zelmarine has earned three degrees from Alcorn State University and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the NAACP, and several civic boards. Widely known as “Momma Brave,” she is a revered figure in both the Alcorn alumni community and nationally, recognized for her leadership and service.
Lesle Joi Peavie is the Program Chief at the Mississippi Farm Service Agency, overseeing more than 20 programs. An alumna of Alcorn State University, she holds a Bachelor’s in Biology and a Master’s in Agronomy. Lesle’s career at USDA encompasses various roles in field, district, and area operations. She is a published researcher, a graduate of the Leadership Development Program, and an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Women in Agriculture, and multiple Alcorn alumni chapters. As a third-generation Alcornite, Lesle continues a proud family legacy.
Kurt Readus serves as the State Conservationist for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Mississippi. He graduated from Alabama A&M University and began his federal career as a student trainee in 1998. Over the years, Kurt has held numerous state and national leadership roles, including Acting Deputy Chief for Science and Technology and Director of Financial Assistance Programs. With over 25 years of experience in public service and agricultural leadership, he is a graduate of the Federal Executive Institute and Leadership Mississippi.
Willie Simmons is the Central District Transportation Commissioner for the Mississippi Department of Transportation and a former Mississippi State Senator with more than 26 years of legislative experience. As the Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, he championed over $5 billion in infrastructure projects across the state. Willie holds degrees from Alcorn State University and Delta State University. A Vietnam veteran and lifelong public servant, he currently serves as Chairman of the Mississippi Transportation Commission. He is a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
John E. White is the Senior Vice President at Sodexo Schools Mid-Atlantic Region, where he leads operations, financial growth, and personnel development. With 40 years of service across various Sodexo sectors—including hospitals, universities, and K-12 schools—he has established a reputation as an innovator in organizational strategy. John is a Distinguished Service inductee of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and serves as a senior advisor to the International President. He is also a member of the Metropolitan DC Chapter of the Alcorn Alumni Association and a founding member of The Gathering Spot DC, with leadership training from Leadership Detroit and Leadership Louisville.