The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the threshold of normal human activity in recent weeks and the campus of Alcorn State University (ASU) has had to adjust accordingly. On May 2, 2020 at 9:00 am ASU proceeded with its scheduled Spring graduation but this time was unprecedented. Alcorn held its graduation virtually on YouTube.
The 55 minute and 19 second video was live streamed to well over 1,000 onlookers (Currently it has 5,981 views) who wished to the celebrate the accomplishments of the graduates. Alcorn conferred 73 graduate degrees and 466 undergraduate degrees. Another historical milestone happened when the Class of 1970 had 119 participants making it the largest class in University history to receive golden diplomas.
The program consisted of faculty, staff and students such as Dr. Keith McGee, Interim Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Felecia Nave, President of Alcorn State University, Reverend C.J. Rhodes Jr., Chaplin, James Harrington, Student Government Association (SGA) President, Dr. Valtreasa Tolliver-Cook, Chair of the Faculty Senate and Dr. Neddie Winters, President of the National Alumni Association who offered the graduates well wishes and words of encouragement for the future. Emmanuel “Dean” Barnes was tasked with reciting the names of every graduate.
Dr. Naves stated,” Graduates, I hope you realize how in your four years you have consistently studied hard to be vested with the knowledge, skills and background values you will need for life. Thank you for the privilege to serve you. We know that you will go forth and do great things.”
To see the graduation click the play icon below.