Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) proudly welcomed over 336 students and their sponsors from 21 schools across the state for the Fall Regional State Leadership Conference of the Educator Rising Program on October 22, 2024. This is the second consecutive year that MVSU has been chosen to host this significant event, which seeks to inspire the next generation of educators in Mississippi.
Preparation for this event began in the spring when the Area Sponsor approached the university, MVSU Graduate Mrs. Shakeya Leflore-Johnson, a Greenwood-Leflore Career & Technical Educator Preparation Instructor—in collaboration with Mrs. Leflore-Johnson and her center director, Dr. Jamie Jyles, Mr. Daryl Gates, Director of MVSU’s Institute of Effective Teaching Practices, worked closely with Dr. Theresa Dumas, Acting Chair of the Education Department, to secure the necessary permissions and paperwork to host such a large group on campus.
The conference, organized in collaboration with the Mississippi Department of Education and led by the department’s new Educator Rising Program leader, Mrs. Kimberly Usry, featured engaging sessions for future educators. Participants from various school districts participated in sessions led by MVSU faculty, Education Department staff, and student leaders, all designed to introduce high school juniors and seniors to the field of education.
Dr. Jerryl Briggs, President of MVSU, and Dr. Theresa Dumas welcomed attendees energized by live music from the Greenwood-Leflore Consolidated High School Band during registration. MVSU seized this opportunity to showcase the university and its resources, offering souvenirs and informational sessions to all juniors and seniors present.
A highlight of the event was a series of "Dressing for Success" sessions presented by MVSU Education Major and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity President Mr. Xavier Manley. With less than 24 hours notice, Manley stepped in for a scheduled presenter, impressing attendees with his insights and enthusiasm across three large sessions.
Dr. Dumas commended all those who contributed to the conference's success, including MVSU alumni, faculty, staff, and students. “This conference is an invaluable investment in the future teachers of Mississippi,” she stated.
For a spotlight on the event by Delta News, click here: Delta News Article.
