Alcorn supporters celebrated for their commitment to giving at the Always Alcorn Donor Appreciation Reception
Faithful alumni of Alcorn State University received recognition for their unwavering support of the university and generous financial contributions.
University supporters were celebrated during the Always Alcorn Donor Appreciation Reception Thursday, Oct. 10, at the Dr. Clinton Bristow Jr. Dining Facility Gold Room. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni gathered to express their appreciation to those who aid in the university’s financial growth.
Many of the funds generated go towards the educational well being of Alcorn’s students. Jalesa Jones, a junior agriculture business major who earned the $1 Million Brave Scholarship, applauded donors for supporting her education.
“I express my gratitude to the Foundation and donors to the $1 Million. Rave Strong Challenge for your financial support of my undergraduate career,” said Jones. “This scholarship has played a significant role in helping me achieve my academic goals and purchase the required materials for me to be successful in my classes. I appreciate your generous support of my education.”
Keyshawn Norris, a freshman business administration major who earned an ASU General Scholarship, expressed his gratitude to the donors for enabling him to matriculate without financial burdens to distract him.
“The scholarship gives me the money I need to buy my school necessities such as books and other materials for my classes,” said Norris. “This scholarship also motivates me to perform well on my class assignments. Because of Alcorn’s help, I’ve been given hope to keep my dream of earning a quality education alive.”
Donor funds also enable faculty and staff to attend conferences that prepare them to better serve the students. Floyce Thomas ’99, a serials librarian at the J. D. Boyd Library, spoke about how the donations play an integral part in her ability to equip our students for a bright future.
“I have learned that it is not about me, but what I can do for others,” said Thomas. “It has allowed me to travel, engage in different workshops, learn more, and bring that knowledge back to our students. It’s important for us to attend conferences and learn more so that we can equip our students to be the best they can be in their fields.”
Giving also allows students and faculty at Alcorn to participate in unique educational experiences that broaden horizons. Carla Kirkland ’86, an ASU Foundation board member,
“Every time you give, you are empowering students to go far,” said Kirkland. “Giving creates opportunities for our students to conduct research that will impact the lives of others. Your giving makes cutting-edged learning programs available that can prepare our future leaders. Alcorn’s alumni and friends are very committed and generous. Their collective philanthropy makes a difference across our institution.”
President Dr. Felecia M. Nave applauded the alumni for paying it forward to current students the same way those before them assisted in their progress.
“It’s important that we never forget to pay it forward because someone came before us and invested in our future,” said Nave. “If we want to see this generation thrive, we have to make the same investment in them that was made in us. Your gifts speak volumes about Alcorn as a place of philanthropic purpose, and it shows the strength of our institutional pride.”
Marcus Ward, vice president of Institutional Advancement/executive director for the ASU Foundation, Inc., thanked the donors for assisting in the evolution of Alcorn and its students.
“Homecoming is a great opportunity to show our support,” said Ward. “We welcome you home, and we thank you for being charitable and giving to Alcorn State University. As supporters, you impact areas of the university that need it the most, or the ones you are most interested in. We pay tribute to you because you have demonstrated your care and devotion to our students and the overall advancement of Alcorn.”
