The Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women selected Jackson State University President Carolyn W. Meyers as Woman of the Year in Education. She was one of nine award recipients announced in various categories during its annual luncheon Thursday, May 7.
“I thank you on behalf of the leaders of tomorrow who will make Mississippi a better place. Also, I thank you for being committed to learning, excellence and being a supporter of our educational institution,” said Meyers after receiving the award.
Meyers is the 10th president of JSU and a professor of civil and environmental engineering.
Since becoming chief executive, JSU expanded its impact with four new campus locations, increased course offerings for evening, weekend and online studies. As well, it implemented the nation’s largest freshman iPad initiative, which provides all first-year students with iPads to aid with their coursework.
Others selected for awards include state Rep. Alyce Clark, politics; recording artist Dorothy Moore, arts and entertainment; Toni Cooley, business and industry; Elise Winter, community service; and Justice Ann Lamar, legal and judicial.
The Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women exists to advocate for the women in Mississippi, providing a vehicle through which their voices can be heard.
The State of Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women was created in 2001 by the Mississippi Legislature under House Bill 797, which provides for four commissioners to be appointed by the governor and three each to be appointed by the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the House and the attorney general. All commissioners serve in a voluntary capacity and are active in other groups involved in issues of concern to women.
For more information on the Mississippi Commission on the Status of Women, visit www.msstatusofwomen.org.