News

Mississippi Valley State Athletics Announces Strategic Realignment

communications — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 19:10:40 +0000

Mississippi Valley State Athletics Announces Strategic Realignment

Fri, 10/31/2025 - 12:00

communications Fri, 10/31/2025 - 14:10

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 (MVSU) announced a strategic realignment of its athletics programs, including discontinuing women’s soccer and adding women’s flag football and club golf. This decision aligns with the university’s long-term strategy to optimize resources, expand student opportunities, and position MVSU within growing areas of collegiate athletics.

The realignment is effective immediately. All current women’s soccer student-athletes will retain their athletics scholarships through the 2025–26 academic year. They will receive individualized support to either continue their educational journey at MVSU or explore transfer opportunities.

“This was a difficult but necessary decision, and we fully understand its impact on our student-athletes,” said Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson, Director of Athletics. “This realignment reflects a strategic vision that allows us to reinvest in emerging sports and create more opportunities for students to compete and thrive.”

MVSU joins a rapidly growing movement across the region and nation, as women’s flag football expands at the high school and collegiate levels. The sport is set to debut in the 2028 Olympic Games, and its addition positions MVSU to be part of a major moment in women’s athletics.

Introducing a club golf program will provide a low-cost, high-engagement opportunity for a broad range of students, fostering competition, community, and recruitment potential.

“We are excited about the future of MVSU Athletics and the opportunities ahead,” Shields-Gadson added. “This realignment strengthens our program and helps us remain competitive within the SWAC and beyond, while maintaining our commitment to student success.”

MVSU Announces Enhanced Safety Measures for 2025 Homecoming Celebration

communications — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 19:50:57 +0000

MVSU Announces Enhanced Safety Measures for 2025 Homecoming Celebration

Mon, 10/13/2025 - 12:00

communications Mon, 10/13/2025 - 14:50

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 (MVSU) is proud to welcome students, alumni, and guests back to “The Valley” for Homecoming 2025, one of the most anticipated annual celebrations on campus. As thousands of visitors are expected to join in the festivities, the University has announced enhanced safety measures designed to ensure a welcoming, enjoyable, and secure experience for all participants.

In partnership with local, county, and state law enforcement agencies, MVSU has expanded its on-campus security presence and implemented a series of proactive safety protocols. These measures include vehicle inspections at all campus entry points and a strict prohibition of firearms. To further strengthen security, the University has installed additional lighting and barricades throughout the campus to improve visibility and manage crowd movement effectively.

Campus access will be restricted on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of Homecoming week. Students must display a valid parking decal and present their MVSU student ID to gain entry. All visitors to campus will be required to present an official form of identification, such as a driver’s license, before being allowed entry. These protocols are designed to help maintain a controlled and safe environment during the celebration.

To preserve a family-friendly atmosphere, tailgating activities will conclude at 9 p.m. on Saturday. The University is also enforcing restrictions on certain vehicles, including ATVs, four-wheelers, motorcycles, and golf carts. Security personnel will continuously monitor campus activity, and vehicles will be photographed and recorded as part of enhanced surveillance efforts.

The safety and well-being of our students, alumni, and guests remain our highest priority. We look forward to a weekend filled with school spirit, fellowship, and celebration—made even stronger by our shared commitment to keeping The Valley safe. MVSU encourages all attendees to remain vigilant, respect the established guidelines, and contribute to a positive and secure Homecoming experience.

To report suspicious activity or emergencies, contact MVSU Campus Police at (662) 254-3479 or dial 911.

Be Alert. Be Involved. Be Safe. Protect the Valley. Working together we will truly keep Valley In Motion!

Nissan Continues Its Support of 91�첥 STEM Programs

communications — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 17:33:34 +0000

Nissan Continues Its Support of 91�첥 STEM Programs

Wed, 10/08/2025 - 12:00

communications Wed, 10/08/2025 - 12:33

CANTON, Miss. — Nissan is extending its long-standing commitment to Mississippi’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with a $250,000 donation supporting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. The investment is part of the automaker’s Mississippi HBCU STEM Initiative, which has provided more than $2.75 million in funding since 2014.

91�첥 (MVSU) is among the seven HBCUs benefitting from this year’s funding. The university’s initiative, MVSU Innovates: Where Technology Meets Purpose, strengthens STEM programming through technology upgrades, hands-on learning, internship placement, faculty development, and student participation in conferences and competitions.

“Through Nissan’s partnership, our students gain access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities that position them for success in the global workforce,” said Antonio Brownlow, Ph.D., chairperson of MVSU’s Department of Engineering Technology. “This support ensures that we can continue to foster innovation and prepare workforce-ready graduates.”

Latonya Garner-Jackson, Ph.D., chair of MVSU’s Department of Mathematics, Computer and Information Sciences, said the investment builds momentum for the university’s STEM pipeline. “Our students are participating in code-a-thons, hack-a-thons, and national conferences where they showcase their talents, expand professional networks, and compete alongside peers from across the country,” she said. “Nissan’s support helps make these experiences possible and directly impacts the future of STEM in the Mississippi Delta.”

Since opening in 2003, Nissan’s Canton Vehicle Assembly Plant has created more than 25,000 jobs statewide and invested more than $20 million in local nonprofit organizations. The plant is transforming into a U.S. electric vehicle manufacturing center, aligning its innovative production with the STEM principles taught at Mississippi HBCUs.

The Mississippi HBCUs receiving Nissan’s donation are Alcorn State University, Coahoma Community College, Hinds Community College – Utica Campus, Jackson State University, 91�첥, Rust College, and Tougaloo College.

91�첥 Awarded $279,000 to Support Mississippi Teacher Residency Program

communications — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 21:23:07 +0000

91�첥 Awarded $279,000 to Support Mississippi Teacher Residency Program

Tue, 09/30/2025 - 12:00

communications Tue, 09/30/2025 - 16:23

ITTA BENA, Miss. — (Sept. 30, 2025) — 91�첥 (MVSU) has been awarded $279,000 by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) to support its role in the Mississippi Teacher Residency (MTR) program, a statewide initiative designed to prepare highly qualified teachers for critical shortage areas across the state.

The grant will provide tuition, books, testing fees, mentoring stipends, and other supports for MVSU participants pursuing licensure in Elementary Education (K–6) or Special Education Mild/Moderate (K–12). In return, participants commit to teaching in Mississippi’s geographical shortage areas, directly addressing one of the most urgent needs in public education.

“We are proud that 91�첥 is continuing to play a vital role in strengthening the teacher pipeline in Mississippi,” said Theresa Dumas, Ph.D., Associate Professor/Acting Department Chair, Education & HPER Department. “This investment allows us to prepare, support, and retain future educators who will make a lasting difference in classrooms and communities across the state.”

MVSU is one of nine institutions of higher learning selected to share in $2,968,855 in grant funding awarded by MDE to expand the MTR program. The statewide initiative will support up to 236 teacher residents through its partner institutions.

The Mississippi Teacher Residency program is part of the state’s broader strategy to recruit and retain effective teachers. Since its launch in 2018, MTR has provided hundreds of aspiring educators with tuition support, classroom experience, and mentoring opportunities, while creating a reliable pipeline of teachers for schools in greatest need.

91�첥 has a proud tradition of preparing educators who are both academically strong and community-focused. Through its teacher preparation programs, MVSU equips graduates to lead classrooms with skill, compassion, and cultural awareness, ensuring that Mississippi’s students are taught by qualified, passionate professionals.

MTR Partner Institutions and Grant Awards

Delta State University – $280,000
Jackson State University – $272,417
Mississippi College – $119,684
Mississippi State University – $1,298,981
Mississippi University for Women – $140,000
91�첥 – $279,000
University of Mississippi – $242,773
University of Southern Mississippi – $196,000
William Carey University – $140,000

This investment is part of a broader statewide strategy to expand the teacher pipeline and retain high-quality educators across Mississippi.

Statement from 91�첥 on Georgia Football Classic

communications — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:03:04 +0000

Statement from 91�첥 on Georgia Football Classic

Tue, 09/30/2025 - 12:00

communications Tue, 09/30/2025 - 12:03

Due to unforeseen circumstances and issues beyond our control with the Georgia Football Classic organizers, the October 4, 2025, football game between 91�첥 and Florida A&M University will no longer be held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

We value the opportunity to provide a quality experience, so every effort was made to make this event happen. We regret that no viable option was available on short notice. As Mississippi Valley State is the designated home team, the decision has been made to postpone the game and play at Rice-Totten Stadium in Itta Bena, Mississippi, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2 p.m.

We regret the impact this unexpected change will have on our fans, and we will make every effort to provide a quality game-day experience during the rescheduled competition date. While this outcome is disappointing for our fans and community, our focus remains on upholding the standards and integrity of our athletics programs.

MVSU and FAMU remain committed to excellence on and off the field, and we will continue to provide our student-athletes and supporters with competitive and high-quality experiences.

Information regarding tickets will be forthcoming on MVSU's Athletics website.

Statement from 91�첥 on Georgia Football Classic

communications — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:58:58 +0000

Statement from 91�첥 on Georgia Football Classic communications Tue, 09/30/2025 - 11:58

MVSU and FAMU remain committed to excellence on and off the field, and we will continue to provide our student-athletes and supporters with competitive and high-quality experiences.

Information regarding tickets will be forthcoming on MVSU's Athletics website.

MVSU Named Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader for Fifth Consecutive Year

communications — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 12:51:33 +0000

MVSU Named Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader for Fifth Consecutive Year

Tue, 09/09/2025 - 12:00

communications Wed, 09/10/2025 - 07:51

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 (MVSU) has been named a Fulbright Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Institutional Leader for 2025 by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

This distinction recognizes HBCUs with exceptional engagement in the Fulbright Program, the nation’s flagship international academic exchange initiative. Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders encourage students, faculty, and administrators to participate in Fulbright exchanges while supporting visiting scholars and highlighting international engagement across campus.

MVSU has earned this honor for five consecutive years (2021–2025), joining a select group of institutions nationwide that consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to international education and exchange.

“This recognition is a testament to MVSU’s commitment to preparing students for success in a global society,” said Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr., President of MVSU. “Through programs like Fulbright, our students and faculty gain opportunities that broaden their perspectives, strengthen academic excellence, and elevate the University’s role on the international stage.”

Dr. Kathie Stromile Golden, provost and senior vice-president for academic affairs at MVSU and a Fulbright U.S. Scholar alumna, emphasized the program’s lasting impact. She noted that participation in Fulbright Programs “has enriched our Institution and the communities we serve.”

Dr. Lokesh Shivakumaraiah, Executive Director of International Programs and Special Assistant to the Provost, highlighted the importance of sustained engagement: “Our continuous engagement with the Fulbright Program allows MVSU to bring some of the best scholars from around the world to the Valley. It also helps our faculty and staff to apply for the Fulbright U.S. Scholars program to pursue research and academic collaborations with overseas institutions.”

For the 2025–26 academic year, MVSU proudly recognizes the following Fulbright recipients:

Mr. Abuther Alothman
Fulbright Language Teaching Assistant
Teaching Role: Arabic Instructor
Home Country: Iraq
Mr. Shubhrika Pansari
Fulbright Language Teaching Assistant
Teaching Role: Hindi Instructor
Home Country: India
Dr. Lokesh Shivakumaraiah
U.S. Fulbright Scholar — International Education Administrators, France
Title: Executive Director of International Programs and Special Assistant to the Provost

Since its inception in 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided nearly 450,000 participants from the United States and abroad the opportunity to study, teach, and conduct research. Fulbrighters work across disciplines and cultures to tackle complex global challenges, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections.

Learn more about the Fulbright Program at https://fulbrightprogram.org.

MVSU to Celebrate the Life and Legacy of B.B. King with 11th Annual Symposium

communications — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 16:34:51 +0000

MVSU to Celebrate the Life and Legacy of B.B. King with 11th Annual Symposium

Wed, 09/03/2025 - 12:00

communications Wed, 09/03/2025 - 11:34

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 will pay tribute to the “King of the Blues” this fall with the 11th Annual B.B. King Day Symposium, scheduled for Sept. 4, 2025, on the MVSU campus. The program, beginning at 9 a.m., is one of the signature events marking the 100th birthday of Riley B. King, the Delta native whose music and story continue to resonate around the globe.

The symposium is part of a series of centennial celebrations hosted throughout September across the Delta, including lectures, community festivals, and concerts at the B.B. King Museum and Historic Club Ebony in Indianola. This year’s observance carries added weight, as 2025 also marks 91�첥’s 75th anniversary, creating a rare opportunity to reflect on the shared heritage of the university and one of the state’s most celebrated cultural icons.

B.B. King was born in 1925 in Berclair, Mississippi, just a few miles from Indianola, and rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Known for his expressive guitar playing and soulful vocals, King brought Delta blues to international audiences, earning 15 Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

MVSU, located less than 30 miles from King’s hometown, has long recognized the importance of preserving and sharing his story. Over a decade ago, the B.B. King Day Symposium was launched as an academic and cultural forum where scholars, musicians, and community members could explore King’s influence on music, history, and society.

“B.B. King’s influence goes far beyond music—his story speaks to resilience, creativity, and the power of the Delta,” said Margaret Clark, symposium coordinator and Office Manager for Academic Affairs at MVSU. “We are proud to bring scholars, musicians, and community members together on our campus to celebrate his centennial and reflect on how his legacy continues to inspire new generations.”

The annual symposium has become a cornerstone of MVSU’s cultural calendar, drawing students, faculty, and guests from across the state. Past programs have featured panel discussions, performances, and reflections from musicians, historians, and cultural leaders. This year’s edition is expected to highlight King’s enduring impact while also tying into broader conversations about Mississippi’s role in shaping American music.

The symposium launches a packed schedule of events honoring King’s centennial. On Sept. 5, the Mississippi Blues Trail will unveil a new marker at the B.B. King Museum in Indianola. A Community Day Festival follows on Sept. 6, featuring live music, vendors, and activities for families. On Sept. 13, the museum will host an innovative “B.B. King Exclusive Hologram Experience” at Historic Club Ebony, offering audiences a new way to encounter King’s artistry.

The month-long celebration concludes Sept. 16 with a birthday observance at the museum, bringing together fans, musicians, and community members to honor what would have been King’s 100th birthday.

For MVSU, the B.B. King Day Symposium represents more than a single event—it extends the university’s mission to connect culture, education, and community. As the institution commemorates its own milestone of 75 years, university leaders say the symposium reflects the spirit of perseverance and creativity that defines both the Delta and its people.

“B.B. King’s journey reminds us that greatness can rise from the most challenging of circumstances,” Clark added. “That message continues to resonate with our students and with all who call the Mississippi Delta home.”

For more information about the B.B. King Day Symposium and related centennial events, visit bbkingmuseum.org.

91�첥 to Host 2025 Fall Convocation with Keynote Speaker Dr. Miskia L. Davis

communications — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 19:03:27 +0000

91�첥 to Host 2025 Fall Convocation with Keynote Speaker Dr. Miskia L. Davis

Thu, 08/21/2025 - 12:00

communications Thu, 08/21/2025 - 14:03

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 (MVSU) is pleased to announce its 2025 Fall Convocation, scheduled for 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, in the Walter Roberts Auditorium of the H.G. Carpenter Building. This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Miskia L. Davis, Director of District and School Performance and Accountability for The Kirkland Group, an education consulting firm based in Ridgeland, Mississippi.

Dr. Davis, a native of the Mississippi Delta, is widely recognized as a transformative educational leader. She previously served as Superintendent of the Sunflower County Consolidated School District, where she led the district from years of chronic underperformance to sustained academic gains — including earning its first-ever “C” rating in 2019 and later achieving a “B,” the highest in the region.

Her leadership was marked by bold accountability measures, innovative teacher support systems, and a relentless focus on student success. Community celebrations, from parades to student recognition initiatives, helped shift the district culture from resignation to resilience, with the hashtag #WINNING becoming a mantra for progress.

A lifelong educator, Dr. Davis has served as teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent, developing a reputation for turning around struggling schools. As principal, she successfully raised Ruleville Middle School from an “F” to an “A” in just three years. Today, through her role with The Kirkland Group, she consults with districts statewide, sharing the proven strategies that brought meaningful change to Sunflower County.

Her educational journey includes a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Chemistry from Delta State University and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from William Carey University. Beyond her credentials, Davis is driven by her personal story. Growing up in Drew, Mississippi, she experienced many of the same challenges her students face today. That background, she says, grounds her philosophy that relationships are the most powerful catalyst for change.

“To grow children, much like flowers, you must plant them in fertile ground and intentionally care for them daily,” Dr. Davis has shared.

MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr., expressed excitement about her keynote.

“Dr. Davis’s story is about perseverance, leadership, and vision. She embodies the mission of 91�첥, empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential. We are honored to welcome her as our convocation speaker,” said Dr. Briggs.

The Fall Convocation is a longstanding MVSU tradition. It signals the beginning of the academic year and unites students, faculty, staff, and the broader community in reflection and inspiration.

The event is open to the public, and all members of the Delta community are invited to attend.

91�첥 appoints Dr. Candace Carter Stevens Assistant Vice President of Institutional Research and Effectiveness

communications — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 18:46:19 +0000

91�첥 appoints Dr. Candace Carter Stevens Assistant Vice President of Institutional Research and Effectiveness

Thu, 08/21/2025 - 12:00

communications Thu, 08/21/2025 - 13:46

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 has appointed Dr. Candace Carter Stevens as assistant vice president of institutional research and effectiveness.

Stevens transitions into the role after serving as an associate professor of mathematics in the Department of Mathematics, Computer and Information Sciences, and most recently as president of the Faculty Senate.

With nearly 25 years of experience in education—20 of them at MVSU—Stevens brings a strong background in academic culture, data-driven decision-making, and institutional accountability. Her expertise, combined with a passion for student achievement and educational equity, positions her to advance the university’s assessment, accreditation, and continuous improvement goals.

A native of Cleveland, Mississippi, Stevens earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education, a master’s degree in mathematics from Jackson State University, and a doctorate in science education with a concentration in mathematics education from the University of Southern Mississippi. She has led and contributed to several federally funded STEM education projects, including NASA and the U.S. Department of Education initiatives, focusing on improving academic performance among underrepresented students and closing STEM education gaps in the Mississippi Delta.

“I am deeply humbled and honored to serve in this capacity,” Stevens said. “I am grateful to President Jerryl Briggs and Dr. Kathie Golden for their confidence in my leadership, Dr. Sharon Freeman for laying the foundation, and my family, colleagues, mentors, and students who have poured into my journey. I remain committed to advancing MVSU’s mission and fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and student success.”

Outside of academia, Stevens is recognized for her community outreach, faith-based programs, and educational initiatives that empower youth and promote equity.