
Christy Allen-Pleasant, Southern University- c/o 2003, Developmental Education

Where are you from? Who introduced you to HBCUs?*
I am originally from Winnsboro, Louisiana. My older siblings, introduced me to HBCUs.

THE Southern University
Why did you choose an HBCU over a pwi?*
I am from a small town in north Louisiana , where you rarely hear about anything related to African-American culture, beliefs, traditions, etc.
I was often overlooked for various awards because of my color. I knew once leaving high school - I HAD to go somewhere where the people looked like me and I had to go somewhere I could learn more about African American Culture and our History.
Choosing an HBCU over a PWI was the best decision I have ever made in my life!! My love for HBCUs encouraged me to receive my Bachelors from Southern University, Masters from Alcorn State University, and my Doctorate From Grambling State University!
What is the story of your "experience" at Your HBCU given its heralded status as a stellar and prestigious institution?*
My experience at Southern University was like a breath of fresh air. The majority of my peers and professors looked like me. This played a huge factor in building up my self confidence, esteem, and thrive to be better than the best.
My experience at Alcorn State University is comparable to another stepping stone to my academic and professional success. My experience at Grambling State University simply added the final touches to an individual who was HBCUMade!!!
"First time" experiences at your HBCU?*
My first time stepping on the grounds of Southern University was overwhelming at first. I will never forget the LONG financial aide lines and registration lines.
Those struggles helped create a strong, independent, hard-working woman. If I didn’t go through what I went through at all three HBCUs I attended - I wouldn’t be or have what I have today !!

It’s in our DNA
Who are the professors that have impacted your life in and out of the classroom? How did they do that?*
The professors that have impacted me in and out of the classroom are:
Dr. Klienpeter of Southern University, Dr. Simpson of Alcorn State University, Dr. Harrison and Dr. Farmer of Grambling State University.
Each individual saw me at my best and my worst. They all knew how to bring out my best when I felt like giving up. Dr. Kleinpeter actually encouraged me to seek a Graduate degree.
Dr. Simpson took me in his wings and enabled me to adjust to the Mississippi atmosphere and pushed me to complete my Masters Degree.
Dr. Harrison and Dr. Farmer (Rest In Power) became my parents away from home. They provided advice, positive criticism, and encouragement to finish my Doctorate Degree. They each hold a special place in my heart.
What is your funniest college story? (everyone has one lol)
My funniest college story was living on campus in the triangle and having a three dorm water balloon fight. Everyone from all three dorms were throwing water balloons left and right. It was the funniest day ever.
If you could only speak two sentences to the youth coming after you what would you say?
Attend an HBCU no matter what. Always believe in yourself and never give up!
Category : Alumni
Comments
Southern University

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Students: 6,152
- Athletics: Southern University A & M University participates in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) which is a part of the NCAA Division I. Football participates in the Football Championship Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA). Southern University A & M University offers Baseball, Basketball, Bowling, Cross Country, Football, Track and Field, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, and Volleyball. RIVALS: Jackson State University, Texas Southern University, and Grambling State University.
- Notable Alumni: Alfred C. Williams - 1972 - Member of the Louisiana House from Baton Rouge since 2012; former school board member and attorney** Patrick C. Williams - State representative for Caddo Parish since 2007** Marcus Hunter - 2002 - Member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from District 17 in Ouachita Parish** Mike Foster - 2004 (Juris Doctor) - 53rd governor of Louisiana** Melvin "Kip" Holden - 1982;1985 - First African-American mayor of Baton Rouge, Louisiana** Troy E. Brown - Member of the Louisiana State Senate from 2012 until his resignation in 2017** Faith Jenkins - Miss Louisiana 2000, Miss America runner-up 2001, attorney, TV personality, star of Judge Faith** Randy Jackson - 1979 - Musician, record producer, former American Idol judge** Lavell Crump - 1997 - AKA David Banner; music recording artist, producer, actor**
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Website: http://www.subr.edu/
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