Dr. Evelyn J. Leggette, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Jackson State University, will receive the Phi Beta Sigma Image Award on July 29, at a banquet beginning at 7:14 pm at the Mississippi e-Center @JSU, 1230 Raymond Road.
Leggette’s peers and former colleagues nominated her for the award, due to her “exceptional” job as dean of the university’s undergraduate studies program as well as her many contributions to education.
Mark A. Young Sr., president of the Greek organization’s Mu Sigma chapter, explained that Leggette’s 40 years in the education field were highly considered during the selection process.
“When her name was mentioned, she trumped everyone just by experience alone. Lastly, [she was chosen because of] her dedication and service to Jackson State University – Mississippi’s only urban university since 1979. [She is] a phenomenal lady for extraordinary times,” Young said.
Leggette, having a passion for instruction, prepared herself for a career in education at a young age. “Since the early grades, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher, so I spent a lot of time reading, studying and talking to my great teachers whose influence had a lasting impact on me,” she said.
Varied positions and opportunities assured Leggette a diverse portfolio in the world of academia. “I have had the opportunity to teach in the public schools; on the college level with undergraduate and graduate students; on the continent of Africa; and I hope they all are better because we crossed each other’s paths. I have also had the great privilege of leading as a dean, associate vice president and now provost and senior vice president,” Leggette said.
According to the Mu-Sigma chapter, the Phi Beta Sigma Image Award was created 14 years ago to serve three purposes. The fraternity wanted to acknowledge people who improved the communities in which they lived, supply scholarships to young male students from the Jackson Public School district and give back to a charitable organization. This year, a portion of the Image Award proceeds will go to the Mississippi Kidney Foundation.
Appreciative of those who aided her sojourn during the infancy stages of her career to her current position, Leggette said, “This award is certainly a testament to all who have had a part in my growth and development as first a student, then a teacher and an administrator. I offer a very warm thank you for their support over the years.”