News

Campus Update: 91�첥 Remains Closed; Anticipated Reopening Monday Pending Conditions

communications — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 14:24:55 +0000

Campus Update: 91�첥 Remains Closed; Anticipated Reopening Monday Pending Conditions

Wed, 01/28/2026 - 12:00

communications Wed, 01/28/2026 - 08:24

Due to ongoing challenges related to power outages across campus and continued travel concerns throughout the region, 91�첥 remains closed at this time.

The university anticipates reopening on Monday, February 2, pending improved conditions and continued power restoration. A final determination regarding campus operations will be communicated as soon as assessments are complete.

ACADEMIC OPERATIONS

Although in-person and virtual classes are not meeting at this time, students are encouraged—if circumstances allow—to check Canvas for any updates or communication from their professors. While classes are suspended, the university remains committed to minimizing any disruption to scholars’ academic progress and success. Students are encouraged to use this time to study, review course materials, and prepare for a successful return to instruction.

CAMPUS OPERATIONS & STAFFING

Only essential personnel should report to campus as directed by their supervisors. All other employees should not report to campus and should follow departmental guidance regarding remote work, if applicable.

DINING SERVICES

Dining services will continue to operate under the previously communicated modified hours.

The university will continue to closely monitor conditions and provide updates on campus operations as soon as additional information becomes available. Please continue to monitor official MVSU communication channels for the latest updates.

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Campus Update: 91�첥 Closed Through Wednesday

communications — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 17:26:31 +0000

Campus Update: 91�첥 Closed Through Wednesday

Tue, 01/27/2026 - 12:00

communications Tue, 01/27/2026 - 11:26

Due to continued power outages across campus impacting academic and administrative buildings, 91�첥 will remain closed through Wednesday. This decision has been made to prioritize the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff as restoration efforts and assessments continue.

ACADEMIC OPERATIONS

All in-person and virtual classes remain suspended through Wednesday.
Faculty and staff will work with students to provide academic flexibility, including extended deadlines, as conditions stabilize.

CAMPUS OPERATIONS & STAFFING

Only essential personnel should report to campus as directed by their supervisors.
All other employees should not report to campus and should follow departmental guidance regarding remote work, if applicable.

DINING SERVICES

The dining hall will operate under modified hours from Friday through Tuesday:

Brunch: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Dinner: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Additional dining accommodations include:

Box lunches are available.
A continental breakfast to-go option is provided as an added safety measure.

Students are encouraged to plan accordingly.

CAMPUS SUPPORT SERVICES

IT Assistance: For technology-related issues, please get in touch with the IT Help Desk at helpdesk@mvsu.edu.

A decision regarding Thursday’s campus operations will be communicated as soon as conditions allow and further assessments are completed.

Please continue to monitor your university email, the MVSU website, and official MVSU social media channels for the latest updates.

Campus Update: 91�첥 Closed Tuesday Due to Winter Weather Impacts

communications — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:51:10 +0000

Campus Update: 91�첥 Closed Tuesday Due to Winter Weather Impacts

Mon, 01/26/2026 - 12:00

communications Mon, 01/26/2026 - 14:51

Due to continued impacts from severe winter weather, including ongoing power outages across campus and throughout the region, 91�첥 will remain closed on Tuesday. This decision has been made to prioritize the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff as hazardous conditions persist.

ACADEMIC OPERATIONS

All in-person and virtual classes are canceled for Tuesday.
Faculty should not require academic participation, assignments, or virtual sessions for the day.

CAMPUS OPERATIONS & STAFFING

Only essential personnel should report to campus as directed by their supervisors.
All other employees should not report to campus and should follow departmental guidance regarding remote work, if applicable.

The university continues to closely monitor conditions and will provide updates on the resumption of normal operations as soon as it is safe to do so. Please continue to monitor your university email, the MVSU website, and official social media channels for the latest information.

Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and cooperation during this time.

Campus Operations Update: Monday Weather Impact

communications — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 19:09:36 +0000

Campus Operations Update: Monday Weather Impact

Sun, 01/25/2026 - 12:00

communications Sun, 01/25/2026 - 13:09

Due to ongoing hazardous winter weather conditions impacting the region, 91�첥 will be closed on Monday to prioritize the safety of students, faculty, and staff.

The National Weather Service continues to report dangerous conditions, including icy roadways and extreme cold temperatures.

ACADEMIC OPERATIONS

All in-person classes are canceled for Monday.
Classes will continue in a virtual format on Monday and Tuesday at the instructor’s discretion.
Students should check Canvas or consult their faculty directly for course-specific guidance and expectations.

DINING SERVICES

The dining hall will operate under modified hours through Tuesday:

Brunch: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Dinner: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Students are encouraged to plan accordingly.

STAFFING & OPERATIONS

Essential personnel should report to work as directed by their supervisors.
All other employees should not report to campus and should follow departmental guidance regarding remote work, if applicable.

The university will continue to closely monitor weather conditions and provide additional updates on the resumption of normal operations as conditions improve.

Please continue to check your university email, the MVSU website, and official social media channels for the latest information.

Your safety remains our highest priority.

MVSU Announces Modified Operations Due to Inclement Weather

communications — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:37:34 +0000

MVSU Announces Modified Operations Due to Inclement Weather

Thu, 01/22/2026 - 12:00

communications Thu, 01/22/2026 - 19:37

91�첥 has announced modified campus operations due to inclement weather and hazardous conditions impacting the region. The decision was made out of an abundance of caution, with the safety of students, faculty, staff, and the campus community as the top priority.

On-Campus Operations

On-campus operations will be suspended effective at noon on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Academic Operations

All classes convening after the noon hours on Friday will transition to a virtual format via Canvas. All in-person classes will continue in a virtual format via Canvas on Monday and Tuesday.
Faculty and students are encouraged to monitor Canvas and official university communications for additional instructional guidance.

Staff Availability

Certain essential staff may be required to remain available to support critical university operations, as directed by their respective supervisors. Normal campus operations are expected to resume on Monday, pending further notice.

Dining Services

Dining services will operate under modified hours from Friday through Tuesday:

Brunch: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Dinner: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Additionally:

Box lunches will be available Saturday through Monday.
A continental breakfast to-go option will be provided as an added safety measure.

Campus Support Services

IT Assistance: For technology-related issues, please contact the IT Help Desk at helpdesk@mvsu.edu.
University Police: 662-254-3479 or 662-254-3478.

Members of the MVSU community are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel, continue to monitor local weather conditions, and remain attentive to official university communications for updates regarding campus operations.

Normal campus operations are expected to resume on Monday, pending further notice.

91�첥 will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide updates as needed.

Mother, daughter earn MVSU degrees together after 23-year journey

communications — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:43:46 +0000

Mother, daughter earn MVSU degrees together after 23-year journey

Mon, 12/15/2025 - 12:00

communications Mon, 12/15/2025 - 15:43

By LaTunya Evans, Communications Specialist

Twenty-three years after withdrawing from 91�첥, Jemeka Summerall crossed the graduation stage Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025 — a milestone made even more meaningful as her daughter, Jelijah Summerall, graduated alongside her.

A Hollandale, Mississippi, native, Jemeka Summerall began her academic journey at MVSU in 2000 after graduating from Simmons High School. Raised in a family deeply rooted in the university, she said attending MVSU was never a question.

“My mom, my sister and even my granddad received their degrees from the Valley, so attending MVSU was a natural choice,” she said. “I wasn’t interested in going anywhere else.”

Intent on continuing her family’s legacy, Jemeka Summerall enrolled at MVSU and joined the university choir under the direction of Dr. Orlando Moss, Sr. In 2002, however, she withdrew from the university because of academic challenges.

Shortly after leaving MVSU, she became pregnant with her daughter. Although her path changed, she said returning to college remained a long-term goal.

After years of balancing motherhood and working as an in-school suspension teacher at T.L. Weston Middle School in Greenville, Mississippi, Jemeka Summerall returned to higher education. In a unique turn, she re-enrolled at MVSU alongside her daughter, pursuing a degree in general studies.

Jelijah Summerall, a 2022 graduate of O’Bannon High School, described herself as shy and reserved while growing up. She said she viewed college as an opportunity to challenge herself personally and academically.

“I was extremely shy and afraid of doing things on my own,” she said. “I knew college would force me to grow socially, emotionally and in real-life skills.”

She began her collegiate career at Mississippi Delta Community College in Moorhead, earning an associate degree in spring 2024. Encouraged by the support MVSU provided to her family, Jelijah Summerall transferred to the university.

“I chose MVSU because it offered a supportive environment, a community that felt like home and affordable tuition that allowed me to graduate debt-free,” she said.

As Jelijah navigated upper-level coursework, her mother became both a classmate and a source of accountability. Adjusting to the demands of university-level work proved challenging, she said, but persistence paid off.

“The assignments were longer and more time-consuming than anything I had done before,” Jelijah Summerall said. “There were days I woke up at 3 a.m. to finish assignments, but I pushed through.”

One moment underscored the impact of her mother’s encouragement.

“I wanted to skip a midterm because I felt unprepared,” she said. “My mom insisted I go to class, and with encouragement from her and Dr. Elian Dyo, I took the exam and passed.”

For Jemeka Summerall, sharing the college experience with her daughter proved equally motivating.

“Jelijah was my motivation every step of the way,” she said. “We leaned on each other — whether it was learning new technology like Canvas or reminding one another about assignments.”

Their shared journey strengthened their bond and offered each a new perspective.

“This experience allowed me to see my daughter grow into a confident young woman,” Jemeka Summerall said. “She’ll always be my baby, but now I see her standing on her own.”

Jelijah said attending college together allowed her to view her mother beyond the role of parent.

“I saw her as a student chasing her own dream,” she said. “That gave me a deeper level of respect for her.”

91�첥 hosted its Fall 2025 Commencement at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the R.W. Harrison HPER Complex. The commencement address was delivered by Dr. Mary Tyes-Williams, mayor of Itta Bena, Mississippi.

Taylor-Fuller Named First Female Chief of Police at 91�첥

communications — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 20:28:28 +0000

Taylor-Fuller Named First Female Chief of Police at 91�첥

Tue, 12/09/2025 - 12:00

communications Tue, 12/09/2025 - 14:28

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 has appointed Lazandra D. Taylor-Fuller as its new Chief of Police, marking a historic milestone as the first woman to lead the department in the institution’s history.

A Moorhead, Miss., native, Taylor-Fuller is a proud MVSU alumna and 16-year veteran of the MVSU Police Department. She brings deep institutional knowledge, a legacy of public service, and a leadership style shaped by humility, professionalism, and a commitment to community. She follows in the footsteps of her late father, who retired from MVSU PD in 2005 after 28 years in law enforcement.

“When I was seven years old, my father became a police officer,” Taylor-Fuller shared. “I always wanted to be like my dad—not knowing at the time that law enforcement was my calling. It is an honor, and I am humbled, to serve as the first female Chief of Police at 91�첥.”

MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs praised the historic appointment, noting the significance of Taylor-Fuller’s long-standing service and connection to the university.

“Chief Taylor-Fuller’s leadership is grounded in service, integrity, and a commitment to the well-being of our campus. Her appointment as the first female Chief of Police in our university’s history is both historic and inspiring. We are thrilled to welcome her into this role and fully believe she will move our campus safety efforts forward with excellence, compassion, and vision,” said Dr. Briggs.

Taylor-Fuller’s journey includes completing the Highway Patrol program in Pearl, Miss., graduating from the Police Academy at Mississippi Delta Community College, and joining the MVSU Police Department in 2010. Her years on the force have allowed her to build lasting relationships with students, faculty, and staff while cultivating a leadership approach rooted in respect, communication, and service.

She credits her experience on campus—both as a student and officer—with preparing her for this moment. “My journey became a story of dedication—bridging the gap between students and ensuring a safe, thriving environment for future generations,” she said.

As Chief, Taylor-Fuller aims to strengthen department staffing, prioritize officer training, and build a workplace culture grounded in safety, respect, and support. Her vision for campus safety includes hiring well-qualified personnel and increasing resources that enhance public safety operations.

She also hopes her appointment sends a message of possibility to the next generation. “Stay focused. Be true to who you are. Have self-respect and respect for others. Keep good work ethics—in the classroom and on the job,” she said when asked what she hopes young women take from her achievement.

Taylor-Fuller emphasized that communication, relationship-building, and consistent leadership will remain central to her approach. “No matter how life may seem, keep your eyes on your vision. Move forward with determination. Stay true to your values. Believe in yourself and the process,” she said. “One goal, one team, one Valley… in motion.”

91�첥 Announces Dr. Mary Tyes-Williams as 2025 Fall Commencement Speaker

communications — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 20:28:01 +0000

91�첥 Announces Dr. Mary Tyes-Williams as 2025 Fall Commencement Speaker

Tue, 11/25/2025 - 12:00

communications Tue, 11/25/2025 - 14:28

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 is proud to announce that Dr. Mary Tyes-Williams, Mayor of Itta Bena, Mississippi, will serve as the 2025 Fall Commencement Speaker. The ceremony will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. in the R.W. Harrison Complex on the MVSU campus.

A distinguished leader whose influence spans ministry, higher education, federal service, and international engagement, Dr. Tyes-Williams brings a powerful legacy of service and leadership to this year’s graduating class.

Dr. Tyes-Williams currently serves as the Acting Assistant Chaplaincy Administrator and Chaplaincy Program Manager with the U.S. Department of Justice/Federal Bureau of Prisons, one of the highest leadership roles within the BOP’s Chaplaincy Services Branch. She is the second-highest-ranking female chaplain in the Federal Bureau of Prisons and the first woman ever to hold the position of Chaplaincy Program Manager.

In addition to her federal leadership, Dr. Tyes-Williams is an ordained minister, published author, life coach, and community event planner. She serves as the Director of Clergy Development for the Greenwood-Jackson District of the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. Her academic background includes service as an adjunct professor at Wesley Biblical Seminary and Apex School of Theology, as well as guest faculty at Highland Bible College in Zambia, Africa.

Her educational credentials include:

Doctor of Ministry, Apex School of Theology
Master of Divinity, Wesley Biblical Seminary
Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and Planning, Tennessee State University
Healthcare Administration & Planning Certificate, Meharry Medical College

As Mayor of Itta Bena, Dr. Tyes-Williams is a committed advocate for community empowerment and local progress. Her leadership continues to strengthen partnerships throughout the Mississippi Delta, including Itta Bena’s relationship with 91�첥.

MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs shared, “We are honored to welcome Dr. Mary Tyes-Williams as our Fall Commencement Speaker. Her commitment to service, her leadership, and her dedication to our community make her an inspiring example for our graduates as they embark on their next chapter.”

2025 Fall Commencement
Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 8:00 a.m.
R.W. Harrison Complex | MVSU Campus | Itta Bena, MS

91�첥 Sees Enrollment Increase Amid Statewide Growth

communications — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 17:30:41 +0000

91�첥 Sees Enrollment Increase Amid Statewide Growth

Mon, 11/03/2025 - 12:00

communications Mon, 11/03/2025 - 11:30

ITTA BENA, Miss. — 91�첥 (MVSU) continues to move forward with steady momentum, reporting a 3.2 percent increase in student enrollment for Fall 2025, according to data released by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL). MVSU’s total enrollment rose from 2,205 students in Fall 2024 to 2,276 students in Fall 2025.

The growth at MVSU contributes to a broader upward trend across Mississippi’s public university system, which saw overall enrollment climb by nearly 3 percent—from 79,817 to 81,961 students statewide.

President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr., described the increase as both modest and meaningful.

“In the midst of an enrollment cliff impacting colleges and universities nationwide, Valley continues to move forward,” said Briggs. “This increase, though modest, reflects the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students to keep the Valley in motion. Every student who chooses MVSU strengthens our mission to educate, empower, and elevate.”

Mississippi IHL Commissioner of Higher Education Dr. Al Rankins Jr. praised the collective progress of the state’s public universities, noting that enrollment growth underscores the confidence families have in Mississippi’s higher education system.

“Mississippi’s universities continue to set a high standard for our students in terms of value and price, and these enrollment figures reflect the confidence that families from around the state and beyond have in our university system,” said Rankins.

With this continued progress, MVSU remains focused on enhancing student success, academic innovation, and community engagement—ensuring that “Valley in Motion” is more than a theme, but a reflection of the university’s ongoing trajectory.

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.”