Alcorn State University (ASU) celebrated its 152nd Founder’s Day Convocation with pride on Thursday, September 21, 2023. The event, held at the Oakland Memorial Chapel on the ASU campus, commenced at 10:00 am and was a testament to the institution’s enduring legacy of excellence and achievement.
The convocation commenced with a prelude, skillfully performed by Tony Gordan, an esteemed Instructor in the Fine Arts Department. The atmosphere was enriched by the Alcorn State University Chamber Singers, who graced the occasion with a captivating selection following the procession of esteemed guests.
The ceremonial posting of the colors was executed by the Alcorn Braves’ Battalion, and the convocation was formally inaugurated with an invocation delivered by Reverend Austin Warren, Assistant Director of Religious Life.
Jordan Buck, the President of the Student Government Association, extended a warm welcome to the guests, setting the tone for the event. Jillian Mills, crowned as Miss Alcorn State University 2023-2024, and Arrington Robinson, honored as Mister Alcorn State University 2023-2024, presented the occasion, emphasizing the significance of the day.
Gregory Richards, a Senior majoring in Food, Nutrition, and Community Health Sciences, took the stage to introduce the esteemed lineup of speakers. The speakers included notable Alcorn State alumni, the President of Coahoma Community College, Dr. Valmadge Towner, and outstanding students, Aron Murphy, a Sophomore majoring in Criminal Justice, and Ashton Murphy, a Sophomore pursuing a Pre-Biology/Physical Therapy degree.
The program continued with a special recognition of The Jones Family, skillfully presented by Khari Allen who is currently Mr. Sophomore and a Plant and Soil Science major. The ASU Concert Choir enriched the proceedings with a musical selection. The convocation reached its conclusion with closing remarks delivered by Dr. Dexter B. Wakefield, a Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Programs within the School of Agriculture and Applied Sciences. The Benediction was presided over by Reverend Dr. C. Edwards Rhodes II, Director of Student and Spiritual Life.
Reflecting on the occasion, Miss ASU stated, “1871 was the year and 2023 is the year, that we celebrate 152 years of excellence and outstanding accomplishments. This annual observance celebrates the history of the institution and those who have contributed to its success. Founder’s Day pays homage to the leaders for their efforts that created an institution that has become the nation’s most well-known institution of higher learning, with various notable distinctions and rankings.”
The 2023 Founder’s Day Convocation at Alcorn served as a reminder of the institution’s rich history and its commitment to academic excellence and community leadership.
