Alcorn mourns the passing of former university historian and esteemed administrator, Dr. Josephine Posey
A staple in the Alcorn State University community who was seminal in shaping and telling the history of the university has passed away.
Dr. Josephine McCann Posey, a 1970 graduate who served as the university historian, died Wednesday, Jan. 15.
Posey authored two books on the university’s history, "Succeeding Against Great Odds: Alcorn State University in its Second Century" and "Against Great Odds: The History of Alcorn State University." She also authored the paperback, pictorial history documenting the university and notable alumni, “Alcorn State University and the National Alumni Association”. In her books, she detailed the history and significant contributions and accomplishments the university has achieved over its 148 years of excellence and service.
In a career that spanned nearly 40-years, Posey dedicated her life to educating young people. She made her own mark on the university’s history in 1984 when she became the first female to serve as the dean of the School of Education and Psychology (a cabinet-level position at the time) and interim vice president for Academic Affairs in 2007. She also spent time as the special assistant to the president at Alcorn, professor, and department chairperson.
A native of Collins, Mississippi, Posey worked in the public school system for nine years in Yazoo, Covington, and Washington counties. She went on to teach at the university level at Alcorn, Mississippi Valley State University and Mississippi State University, where she earned a Doctor of Education degree.
Posey received numerous honors, including being selected as a Fulbright Scholar in 1996, where she studied in China for six weeks. She also earned leadership, service, and research awards from Phi Delta Kappa, Outstanding Women of America, Distinguished Leadership Award, Outstanding University Faculty recognized by the Mississippi State Legislature, to name a few.
President Dr. Felecia M. Nave remembers Posey as a treasured and hard-working Alcornite who was committed to the betterment of the university.
"Dr. Posey was a respected and recognizable Alcorn icon that everyone loved," said Nave. "Her passing deeply saddens us. She dedicated her time to promoting the greatness of her beloved alma mater to the world. The Alcorn community will dearly miss her commitment to the university and genuine spirit. I sincerely extend the university’s and my deepest sympathies to the McCann and Posey families and loved ones."
Funeral arrangement services will be announced in the following days.
