Marc Jefferson, Mississippi Valley State University- c/o 1988, Business Administration
Name : Marc Jefferson
HBCU : Mississippi Valley State University
Graduation Year : 1988
Major : Business Administration
Email : marcjefferson66@yahoo.com
Where are you from? Who introduced you to HBCUs?*
I am from a small town, Water Valley MS (75 miles south of Memphis, TN). I was introduced to HBCUs by various high school teachers who graduated from HBCUs.
Why did you choose an HBCU over a pwi?*
I was accepted to several schools in the state. However the PWI only gave partial scholarships. Mississippi Valley State University gave me a full academic scholarship (tuition, housing, and food). My only expense was books.
Meet Gabby and Gigi by Phnesha Marchette
What is the story of your "experience" at Your HBCU given its heralded status as a stellar and prestigious institution?*
I was at MVSU during its glory years in sports and academia. Jerry Rice and Willie Totten were setting records on the gridiron football field.
I also got in the act by being the "break dancing" mascot in 1985. The MVSU women basketball had the leading rebounder in the nation and the men team went to the NCAA tournament. I had academic success and great experiences.
I joined Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc and Air Force ROTC. I later became a US Air Force officer and retired after 20 years of service.
"First time" experiences at your HBCU?*
My hometown is predominantly white. I was really amazed to see all the various shades of blackness. I felt proud.
There were students from all over the country seeking to improve themselves and make lasting contributions to society. As much as I was impressed with the students, I was even more impressed with the diverse faculty staff.
They encouraged us to learn, grow, develop, and make our "mistakes" while we were in college so we could learn and foster our knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Who are the professors that have impacted your life in and out of the classroom? How did they do that?*
My Air Force Professor of Aerospace Studies, Col (retired) Samuel Evans, Mr. Auhja (Accounting), Mrs. Maxine Stewart, Professor Percy Haywood, and Mr House. All of these professors taught us the value of "NOW"!
They wanted us to apply ourselves to be the best and let no one look down in you for attending a HBCU. They taught us to apply ourselves in school and take advantage of the learning opportunities presented to us. Each and every professor would gently remind us that a degree would open a door for us but it wouldn't keep you there.
It would be our knowledge, skills, and abilities (and God's grace) that would keep us there. Be ready and be prepared to show and demonstrate the knowledge we have acquired through studying, discipline, and being focused!
What was your happiest moment in your life to date?
Birth of my daughter, Ziann, and getting married.
Are you a member of a fraternity?
Yes, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc
Comments
Mississippi Valley State University
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Students: 2,502
- Athletics: Mississippi Valley State University sports teams participate in NCAA Division I (I-AA for football) in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Mississippi Valley State University offers, Basketball, Cross country, Golf, Track Baseball, Football, Tennis Soccer, Volleyball, Softball, and Bowling.
- Notable Alumni: Jerry Rice - 1985 - Former NFL wide receiver; member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame** Chris Epps - 1982 - Longest-serving commissioner of the Mississippi Department of Corrections** Corey Holmes - 2000 - Mayor of Metcalfe, Mississippi; former CFL running back**
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