USM Students from Jackson area Named 2017 Kennard Scholars

The 2017 class of Kennard Scholars at The University of Southern Mississippi was recently announced by its Dean of Students Office. The group includes six USM students from the Jackson, Miss. area:

*Rodnecia Joiner, Raymond
*Kristin Dupard, Madison
*Vincent McMurtery, Canton
*Allison Riley, Jackson
*Tylicia Grove, Pelahatchie
*Samantha Ramirez, Wesson

Named in honor of Clyde Kennard, who attempted to integrate Southern Miss in the 1950s, the Kennard Scholars program is designed for students committed to academic excellence and leadership. The program gives particular attention to first generation students, students from underrepresented communities, and/or students who demonstrate a need.

A variety of resources are available to Kennard Scholars, including a mentor program made of partnerships between the scholars and university faculty and staff; a series of workshops entitled Scholars Training and Education Programs (STEPs); active learning trips; and academic enrichment and civic engagement activities.

For more information about the Kennard Scholars Program, contact Dr. Johnell Goins, assistant director for the Kennard Scholars Program in the Dean of Students Office, at johnell.goinsFREEMississippi.