On Thursday, March 23, 2017, the Office of Pre-Professional and Honors Curriculum Programs held its 75th Biannual Honors Convocation themed, “Building Bridges to Success.” Held in the Oakland Memorial Chapel, the program honored over 450 Dean’s scholars and had a record number 181 President’s scholars.
Dr. Donzell Lee, Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs, gave the occasion where he expressed, “This is a time to honor our students but also a time to honor our faculty, parents and loved ones who have provided support for our students throughout the year.”
The convocation featured performances by the Alcorn Concert Choir, Alcorn Men Chorale and Mr. Tony Gordon, as well a presentation from keynote speaker, Dr. Velma Brown Blackmon. Dr. Blackmon is a retired Professor of Communications, who served as the Director of the University Honors Program from 2004 to 2015.
Throughout her presentation, Dr. Blackmon uplifted honorees for being Sensitive, Motivated, Adventurous, Resilient and Transformational (S.M.A.R.T.). She encouraged students to continue being S.M.A.R.T. and to transfer their lives to where they want it to be.
“You’re on the path to creating knowledge and productivity,” she added.
Following the recognition of honorees, Dr. Alfred Rankins, Jr., 19th President of Alcorn State, gave the closing remarks by stating, “I encourage you to keep performing at a high level when things are good and when things are bad. The expectation is to always perform at a high level.”
Dr. John Igwebuike, Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Student Records, presided over the event.