Dr. Benjamin C. Ngwudike, professor of educational leadership, was recently honored by the Igbo Community Association of Mississippi (ICAM) for his service as president to the state-wide organization.
One of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, Igbo tribe members mainly occupy the Southern Eastern and Delta geographical regions of the country – one of the most populous locations in Africa. The service honor recognizes the positive impact community leaders, like Ngwudike, have on Mississippi residents who are descendants of the Igbo tribe. The organization’s main goal is to contribute to the advancement, development and higher education of Mississippi residents who are members of this unique group.
“I’m delighted that my people honored me because they appreciated my leadership qualities during my tenure as the president of the Igbo Community Association of Mississippi,” Ngwudike said.
The professor served as vice president for ICAM from 2012-2013 and as president from 2014-2015. During his tenure, he implemented many programs, such as assisting students of Igbo descent by providing them with stipends to offset educational costs. He also started a signature program called the “Igbo Day Celebration.” The event takes place every two years, and it showcases the Igbo culture to the larger Mississippi community. People of Igbo descent also meet at the celebration to develop a stronger network in the state.
A two-time alum of JSU, Ngwudike graduated with his M.S. in social science education and a Ph.D. in educational administration and supervision. Currently, he is the interim chair of Department of Educational Leadership in the College of Education and Human Development.