Itta Bena, MS — August 13, 2024: Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) proudly announces that JaMya Peoples, the President of the Student Government Association, Inc. (SGA), has been selected to participate in the esteemed 2024 HBCU Scholar Recognition Program.
This prestigious honor, awarded by The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), recognizes students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and community dedication.
“For 10 years, the HBCU Scholars program has celebrated the exceptional academic talent and achievements of students at our Historically Black Colleges and Universities – a recognition that reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s determination to fight for our nation’s HBCUs and their immense contributions to excellence and diversity in higher education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “This year’s 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence – and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow. We couldn’t be prouder to support them on their journey.”
JaMya’s selection as an HBCU Scholar is a significant achievement, distinguishing her among a competitive pool of over 350 applicants from 77 HBCUs nationwide. Her outstanding leadership, academic excellence, civic engagement, and entrepreneurial spirit have earned her this prestigious recognition, making her a beacon of excellence at MVSU and beyond.
As a 2024 HBCU Scholar, JaMya will serve as an ambassador for the White House Initiative and MVSU, actively participating in various professional and leadership development opportunities. These include:
- Serving as a student ambassador: Disseminating information, resources, and opportunities throughout the MVSU campus.
- Receiving public recognition: From the U.S. Department of Education and the White House Initiative.
- Attending the 2024 Annual National HBCU Week Conference: Engaging in workshops on leadership, professional development, HBCU excellence, and workforce development.
- Participating in monthly master classes: Hosted by the Initiative and various partners.
- Networking with other scholars, federal agencies, and private partners: Showcasing her talents and contributing to the HBCU community.
Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr., President of MVSU, expressed immense pride in JaMya's achievement, saying, "JaMya Peoples exemplifies the spirit of excellence and leadership we strive to cultivate at MVSU. Her selection as a 2024 HBCU Scholar is a testament to her dedication and hard work. We are confident she will represent MVSU with distinction and make significant contributions to the HBCU community."
Since its inception in 2014, the HBCU Scholars program has empowered over 500 students from HBCUs nationwide, providing them with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth, mentorship, and networking.
The 2024 cohort of 110 scholars, representing 23 states and 11 countries, will engage in a yearlong series of workshops, leadership development programs, and networking events designed to enhance their skills and expand their horizons.
In partnership with NASA, the program also offers the Minority University Research and Education Project Innovation Tech Transfer Idea Competition (MITTIC). Through the Mini MITTIC program, scholars collaborate to develop ideas for commercializing NASA-derived technologies that can benefit their campuses and surrounding communities.
JaMya Peoples' journey as a student leader at MVSU has been marked by her commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus environment. Her selection as an HBCU Scholar highlights her exceptional qualities and the bright future ahead of her as she continues to make impactful contributions to her community and the broader HBCU network.
For more information, please contact:
Office of Communications and Marketing
Mississippi Valley State University
Phone: 662-254-3577
Email: Donell.maxie@mvsu.edu
Website: www.mvsu.edu