On Thursday, October 13, 2016 Alcorn State University held the Coronation for Whitney Justinae Jackson, Miss Alcorn State University (ASU) 2016-2017, at 7:00 pm at the Davey L. Whitney Complex.
Jackson, 21, is a native of Natchez, Mississippi and a senior Biochemistry major. She is the daughter of Jerrilyn (Charles) Banks and Elston “Van” Jackson. Service has always been a key component for Jackson since becoming a Brave because prior to becoming Miss ASU, Jackson was Miss Sophomore 2014-2015. She is also a member of several other organizations on campus such as the Honors Student Organization, Khem Klub, Alpha Chi Sigma Chemistry Fraternity, Inc., Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students, as well as the Gamma Phi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. After graduation, Whitney plans to continue her education by attending medical school and pursuing a career as a licensed Internist.
During the Coronation the mood was infectious. Everyone was anticipating Jackson’s crowning. The Mistress of Ceremony was LLJuna Grennell- Weir, Director of Educational Equity and Inclusion, who introduced her Majesty’s Royal Court which consisted of Miss Freshman, Jakhia Gray, 18, a Biology/Pre-Physical Therapy major from Jackson, Mississippi, Miss Sophomore, Alexis Crockett, 19, a Biology Pre-Medicine major from Meridian, Mississippi, and Miss Junior, Ebony Thomas, 20, a Business Administration major from Gulfport, Mississippi.
After the introduction of Her Majesty’s Royal Court, the moment everyone was anticipating finally arrived. Her Royal Majesty, Miss Jackson, entered the dimly lit room with elegance and grace. Jeremy Martin, SGA President 2016-2017, then took her hand and escorted her to the stage. She was then crowned and presented with a bouquet of roses by Dr. Alfred Rankins, Jr., President of Alcorn State University. During her acceptance speech Jackson stated, “It’s a great feeling to be officially crowned as Miss Alcorn State University 2016-2017. I put so much effort into the campaign of being elected and I plan to put even more effort into my reign. This opportunity gives me the platform to help soar this university to higher heights and I am very grateful to have been elected to do so. To me, being a leader means breaking barriers while facing hardships to ensure that everything that is near and dear to your heart is executed. I think this Homecoming week has been successful. I hope that everyone has enjoyed the week and I look forward to the student body receiving even more engaging events in the near future.”