By Aron Smith
Jackson State University’s Division of Academic Affairs, THEE Pathway, launched its ‘Leadership and Legacy Speaker Series: Find Your Voice and Make It Meaningful’ at the Student Center on Tuesday, Oct. 31. The speaker series unites prominent leaders from the HBCU community, student, and industry leaders, collectively shaping the generational influence of students as they embark on their college journey.
The Q&A session led by Tyler Bell, senior director of Inclusion 16O Over 90, aimed at exploring the common challenges of finding one’s path. Each panelist shared their experiences and insights, acknowledging that the journey is ongoing for some.
Notable panelist Noel Gardner, Ph.D., director of Aristocrats STEM and Health Sciences Program, highlighted the goal of attending college, focusing on developing critical thinking skills and preparing for success in today’s world.
“Sometimes, students overlook that you can’t simply leap into your desired career. There are stepping stones that you must take and challenges you need to overcome first. These initial steps are designed to teach you to think creatively, as the path to your dream job often involves solving complex problems that require innovative solutions,” explained Gardner.
“THEE Pathway” General Education Program fosters critical thinking, math and analytical skills, and effective communication. It allows students to choose the right path through general education and pick courses that match their goals, helping them achieve academic and personal success.
Prominent panelist Tina Grimes, CEO of Tina Enterprises, finds one of the most rewarding aspects of her work is guiding meaningful conversations with individuals about their present situations and future aspirations, drawing from her internship experience.
“My internship was a valuable experience. It helped me narrow down my interests by identifying what I didn’t enjoy and what truly brought me happiness,” said Tina Grimes. “I learned the importance of asking questions and initiating conversations with people. Most importantly, it taught me not to wait for opportunities but to create them.”
For students like JSU sophomore class president Mya Grimes, valuable guidance can be found within their immediate circles. At the start of her freshman year, her mother, Tina Grimes, emphasized the value of internships. However, her involvement in student advocacy prevented her from pursuing an internship at the peak of the academic year.
Mya credits her friend and panelist, Maisie Brown, a senior political science major and Truman scholar, for encouraging her to attend a local event at the Mississippi Museum of Art on college move-out day. There, Mya unexpectedly connected with Reverend Starsky Wilson, CEO of the Children’s Defense Fund.
“I informed him about my situation, explaining that I had been heavily involved in student leadership and hadn’t managed to secure an internship,” said Mya Grimes, an honor student and student athlete. “He expressed his interest in having me at their D.C. office. I secured an eight-week internship in D.C., five minutes from the Capitol, just because I made a connection through my volunteer work.”
JSU sophomore and Tiger Team student leader Malik Alexander shared how to identify, discover, and nurture a community by proactively engaging with others while navigating the journey of planning for the future.
Alexander explained to the audience that identifying a community involves actively connecting with others.
“At Jackson State University, everyone wants to help you succeed. There’s someone here for you,” Alexander said. “During your eight semesters in college, don’t waste time being afraid to take risks. Talk to someone you may not know and get out of your comfort zone.”
Panelists offered advice on how students can find their path by starting where they are, connecting with others, and their newfound knowledge into action.
“You are already kings and queens. Jackson State is here to adjust your crown. It’s crucial for you to understand that you are already great. We’re here to help you succeed,” Gardner emphasized.