Administration
Dr. Tracee T. Smith
Dean, University College
Dr. Tracee T. Smith
Dr. Tracee T. Smith serves as the Dean of University College at Alcorn State University, where she is dedicated to supporting students through a holistic approach that empowers them to thrive individually, academically, and socially as they transition into college and plan for their futures. A committed member of the Alcorn community since 2010, she previously held leadership roles in the Office of Student Records as Registrar and in Academic Affairs as Director. Dr. Smith earned degrees from Delta State University, Walden University, and Alcorn State University. She is passionate about advocating for clean water and enjoys spending time with family, friends, and classmates. In her spare time, she loves to read, travel, doodle, and color.
Academic Advising
Carolyn Smith
Director, Academic Advising
Carolyn Smith
Carolyn Smith serves as the Director of Academic Advising in University College at Alcorn State University. She began her career at the university in 2006 as an Academic Advisor and was promoted to Director in 2024. Ms. Smith holds an Associate Degree from Hinds Community College and earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Alcorn State University. As Director, she leads a team of four Academic Advisors and is committed to guiding freshmen and sophomore students as they navigate their academic journeys. Through strategic advising, goal setting, and connecting students with campus resources, Ms. Smith remains dedicated to fostering student success and helping students build a strong foundation for their future.
Emanuel F. Barnes, Jr.
Academic Advisor
Emanuel F. Barnes, Jr.
Emanuel F. Barnes, Jr proudly serves as academic advisor in University College at Alcorn State University since October 1, 2024. Mr. Barnes is a two-time graduate of Alcorn State University with a bachelor's in Sociology and Master's in Secondary Education in School Counseling. He earned his educator license in school counseling in 2020 and served two years as a school counselor. His passion is to help students achieve their goals, provide guidance, support, and resources to succeed in their field. In his spare time, Mr. Barnes likes to travel, fish, listen to music, spend time with others, and watch old school tv shows.
Dartesia Coleman
Academic Advisor
Dartesia Coleman
Dartesia Coleman serves as an Academic Advisor. She joined the team in June 2025, bringing several years of experience in student support and academic services that prepared her well for her current role at Alcorn State University. Ms. Coleman’s background includes working closely with diverse student populations, helping them navigate their academic paths and connect with the right resources for success. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Alcorn State University and is passionate about fostering a supportive, student-centered environment. Ms. Coleman’s goal is to empower students to feel confident, capable, and proud of their achievements while contributing positively to University College and ASU as a whole. Outside of work, she enjoys relaxing with family, embracing the holiday season, especially Christmas, and finding joy in the simple moments.
Cawana Henderson
Academic Advisor
Cawana Henderson
Cawana Henderson proudly serves as an Academic Advisor in University College at Alcorn State University. A proud alumna, Ms. Henderson has earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Alcorn, making her return to serve students especially meaningful. As a new advisor, Ms. Henderson brings enthusiasm, commitment, and a student-centered approach to her role. She is passionate about supporting students as they explore, pursue, and achieve their academic goals. Her mission is to provide thoughtful guidance, reliable support, and empowering resources to help students successfully navigate their educational journey. Ms. Henderson is honored to contribute to the continued excellence of Alcorn State University.
Brenda Watson
Academic Advisor
Brenda Watson
Brenda Watson is a dedicated Academic Advisor in University College at Alcorn State University, bringing skills and a passion for student success to her role. A proud alumna of Alcorn State University, Brenda holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, which have equipped her with the knowledge and skills to guide students on their academic journeys. With six years of experience working with Claiborne County Schools, she excels in supporting and inspiring young minds. Brenda is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and navigate their educational paths with confidence. When she's not at work, Brenda cherishes spending time with her family and friends, finding joy and balance in their company.
Dual Enrollment
Darice Muhammad
Coordinator, Dual Enrollment
Darice Muhammad
Ms. Darice L. Muhammad serves as the Dual Enrollment Coordinator for Alcorn State University. A proud two-time graduate of Alcorn State, she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees before joining her alma mater as an employee in 2018. She began her career as an admissions counselor and transitioned into her current role in 2024. Known for her dedication and compassion, Ms. Muhammad is enthusiastic about helping high school students take their first steps into higher education. She is committed to building strong, supportive partnerships with local schools to ensure every student feels prepared and confident in their college journey. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, visiting museums, and mentoring first-generation college students.
First & Second Year Experience (FYE/SYE)
Roy G. Burr
Coordinator, First & Second Year Experience
Roy G. Burr
Roy G. Burr, MBA, serves as the Coordinator for First & Second Year Experience at Alcorn State University, where he has been a member of the team since 2018. A graduate of East Texas A&M (BA), University of Phoenix (MBA), and soon to have a second master's from Alcorn State University (Spring 2026, M.Ed.). Mr. Burr is retired from the United States Army, where he served for over 22 years with multiple deployments as an Artilleryman, Senior Human Resources NCO, and Career Counselor. With a strong foundation in advising and student development, the goals for FYE/SYE are always to provide comprehensive resources, holistic learning objectives, and intentional support that enhance retention and increase graduation rates.
Student Support Services (SSS)
Erika K. Johnson
Director, Student Support Services
Erika K. Johnson
Erika K. Johnson, M.Ed., LPC, serves as the Director of Student Support Services at Alcorn State University, where she has been a dedicated member of the team since 2014. A proud graduate of Jackson State University, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology before obtaining a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from the University of Louisville. Ms. Johnson became a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in 2011 and worked in the mental health field for eight years prior to transitioning into higher education. With a strong foundation in counseling and student development, her goal for TRIO Student Support Services participants is to provide comprehensive resources, guidance, and intentional support that enhance retention and increase graduation rates. Passionate about holistic student success, she is committed to empowering students to overcome barriers and achieve their academic and personal goals. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys drawing, writing poetry, and traveling.
Roderick Martin
Guided Transition Counselor for SSS TRIO
Roderick Martin
Roderick Martin serves as the Guided Transition Counselor for SSS TRIO, where his role involves monitoring students’ grades as well as their overall academic progress. He joined the Student Services family in March 2022, where he had the role of Tutorial Coordinator. Mr. Martin is a proud Alcorn alumnus, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology Health Science and a Master of Science degree in Biology Education. Roderick also worked approximately 10 years in the Office of Student Records and worked numerous years as an academic advisor in University College. Attentive listening, mentorship and giving sound advice are the main ingredients, which play a pivotal role in students’ success, Mr. Martin believes. Roderick’s hobbies are reading, shopping, listening to music and drawing.
Johnnie Jackson
Administrative Assistant II/Budget Clerk to Student Support Services
Johnnie Jackson
Johnnie Jackson serves in the position as Administrative Assistant II/Budget Clerk to Student Support Services here at Alcorn State University. A former graduate of Jackson State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Business Administration. Ms Jackson has been employed here at Alcorn State University since July 2008 with Student Support Services. Prior to her current position she was Accounting Supervisor at PROLON a subsidiary of PERSTORP ABS, maker of Melamine Thermoplastic Dinnerware in Port Gibson, MS for thirty-three years. Her previous work experience has set the pace for the capacity she now serves here at Alcorn State University. She loves talking to the students concerning their goals and future after Alcorn. Her hobbies are reading, family gatherings and traveling.
Testing & Reverse Transfer Services
Cheryl Cayou
Coordinator, Testing & Reverse Transfer
Cheryl Cayou
Cheryl Cayou serves as the Coordinator of Testing & Reverse Transfer at Alcorn State University. She began her career in University College as an Administrative Assistant and has been a dedicated member of the department for 15 years. A proud New Orleans, Louisiana native, Cheryl brings the warmth and vibrancy of her hometown—along with its reputation for the best food in the nation—to everything she does. As a first‑generation college graduate, she is deeply committed to supporting students on their academic journeys and helping them navigate pathways to success.
Upward Bound Program
Kenneth White
Director, Upward Bound
Kenneth White
Kenneth White serves as the Director of Upward Bound at Alcorn State University, a role he has held since May 2023. A proud graduate of Alcorn State University, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Mr. White also holds a specialist degree from Jackson State University. Prior to his current position, he dedicated nine years to the classroom as a schoolteacher, during which he taught and mentored many of the students he now serves in the Upward Bound program. His passion for student development, college readiness, and academic achievement continues to guide his leadership and commitment to expanding opportunities for first-generation and income-eligible students.
Prunella Williams
Administrative Assistant for Upward Bound
Prunella Williams
Prunella Williams joined the Upward Bound Program in June 2014 as an Office Assistant, during the Summer Phase and became a full-time Administrative Assistant on January 15, 2015. With over 11 and a half years in the program, she is dedicated to supporting the success of the Upward Bound and Alcorn State University students. In her spare time, she enjoys reading suspense and drama novels, shopping, and listening to music.