By LaTunya Evans, MVSU Communications Specialist
In accordance with its motto, "Live for Service," Mississippi Valley State University's Office of Community Service Learning has been recognized by the Mississippi Food Network with the 2024 Spirit of Service Award.
The award celebrates the office’s partnership with the organization in addressing local food insecurity and underscores the university’s dedication to serving its community and fostering a culture of service.
According to Cheryl Featherstone, director of Community Service Learning at MVSU, the partnership predates her tenure. However, upon assuming her role, Featherstone recognized the collaboration's significant impact and prioritized continuing and enhancing the initiative.
"I inherited the partnership through my position, but I made some changes," Featherstone said. "I decided to partner with our Athletic Department, allowing different sports teams to earn community service hours by helping with the food boxes."
Featherstone's decision to involve MVSU athletic teams in the food distribution efforts added a layer of efficiency to the process, benefiting the Mississippi Food Network and the university. She credits this teamwork as a pivotal factor in the program's success and recognition.
"Every time the Mississippi Food Network came to campus, they knew we had a team ready and available to help with the boxes," Featherstone said. "I believe they appreciated that. It made the work less strenuous for them."
On Dec. 2, Featherstone received a phone call from the Mississippi Food Network notifying her of the award. The news left her astonished yet deeply gratified.
“I was excited when I learned about the award,” she said. “In community service, you’re doing what you love—you’re not looking to be recognized. But when an award comes along, it makes you feel special and seen. It’s a sign that you’re doing something right.”
Featherstone was surprised to learn that the awards banquet was scheduled for the following evening, Dec. 3. Unable to attend on such short notice, she turned to the Community Service Learning Leadership Team to ensure the university was represented.
She contacted Myiesha Smith, team leader, and Miss Junior at MVSU, who quickly agreed to accept the award on the department's behalf. Smith expressed pride in representing the university at the ceremony in Jackson. 
"I felt amazing accepting the award because it's not only recognition for the department but also our school," Smith said. "It shows that we, as current students, are truly living out our school's motto."
With the Fall 2024 semester concluded, the Office of Community Service Learning has wrapped up its food distribution efforts for the year. Featherstone confirmed the program will resume Jan. 30, 2025.