On Thursday, March 22, 2018 at 10:00 am, the Office of Pre-Professional and Honors Curriculum Programs held its 77th Biannual Honors Convocation themed, “Journey to Knowledge and Character.” The event was held in the Oakland Memorial Chapel and presided over by Dr. John Igwebuike, the Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Student Records. The program honored 572 Dean’s Scholars and 266 President’s Scholars.
The occasion began with a performance by Tony Gordon, an Instructor in the Department of Fine Arts, who conducted the prelude with a beautiful rendition of “Panis Angelicus” by Ceasar Frank. Next was the Braves’ Battalion with the Posting of Colors which was led by Master Sergeant Lawrence Coleman. Reverend C. Edward Rhodes II, Director of Student Religious Life, presided over the invocation next.
Directly after the invocation was the welcome which was conducted by Kristina Brown, Miss Alcorn State University 2017-2018 and Patrick Herbert Jr., Student Government Association President (SGA) 2017-2018. Dr. Donna Williams, the Dean of the School of Business, gave the occasion where she explained the Academic excellence of the honorees and how important their accomplishments were. The Alcorn Men’s Chorale, led by Dwayne Griffin, Director, entertained the audience next with their selection entitled “Ain’t Got Time to Die” which was performed by soloist Jarius McClinton.
Once completed, Xavier Bradford, Honor Student Organization President, introduced Keynote Speaker, The Honorable Darryl V. Grennell. Grennell, who is the current Mayor of Natchez, Mississippi and an alumnus of Alcorn, brought words of wisdom to the faculty, staff and students. Throughout the presentation, Mayor Grennell encouraged students to remain judicious and above all determined. He explained how the honorees should enjoy doing their studies and obtain more information of what their desired profession is. “Remember love and happiness is extremely important throughout your journey in life,” he stated to the audience.
After Mayor Grennell’s inspiring words, Alfred Galtney, the Director of Research and Sponsored Programs, recognized the recipients. The closing remarks were given by Dr. Igwebuike where he thanked the parents, guardians and friends for their love and support of the students being honored.