Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is a historically black university located in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Despite its small size, MVSU has produced a remarkable number of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. In this article, we will highlight some of the most notable achievements of MVSU alumni.
Academia and Research
One of the most notable MVSU alumni in academia is Dr. Jewel Plummer Cobb, a renowned biologist and educator. Dr. Cobb was the first African American woman to earn a Ph.D. in biology from New York University and went on to become the president of California State University, Fullerton. She was also a prominent advocate for women's rights and education.
Another notable alumnus in academia is Dr. Milton Campbell, a mathematician who earned his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. Dr. Campbell is a prominent researcher in the field of mathematics and has published numerous papers on algebraic geometry and number theory.
Arts and Entertainment
MVSU has also produced a number of notable alumni in the arts and entertainment industry. One of the most notable is actress and singer, Wendy Raquel Robinson, who is best known for her roles in the TV shows "The Steve Harvey Show" and "Here We Go Again". Robinson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in drama from MVSU and has since gone on to become a successful actress and singer.
Another notable alumnus in the arts is poet and writer, Sterling A. Brown, who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from MVSU. Brown was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance movement and was known for his poetry and essays on African American life and culture.
Athletics
MVSU has a strong athletic program, and a number of its alumni have gone on to become successful athletes. One of the most notable is NFL player, Vincent Dancy, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from MVSU. Dancy played for the Kansas City Chiefs and the New York Jets and was a member of the MVSU football team that won the 1984 NCAA Division II Championship.
Another notable alumnus in athletics is Olympic athlete, Debrah Kaplan, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education from MVSU. Kaplan was a member of the 1988 US Olympic team and competed in the long jump event.
Business and Entrepreneurship
MVSU has also produced a number of notable alumni in the business and entrepreneurship world. One of the most notable is entrepreneur and businessman, Don Thompson, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from MVSU. Thompson is the founder and CEO of Cleveland Avenue, a venture capital firm that invests in food and beverage companies.
Another notable alumnus in business is Dr. Kimberly Buckner, who earned a Master of Business Administration degree from MVSU. Dr. Buckner is a successful businesswoman and entrepreneur who has held leadership positions at several major corporations, including IBM and Microsoft.
Politics and Public Service
MVSU has a strong tradition of producing alumni who have gone on to become leaders in politics and public service. One of the most notable is politician and lawyer, Bennie Thompson, who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from MVSU. Thompson is a member of the US House of Representatives and has served as the chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee.
Another notable alumnus in politics is politician and educator, Alyce G. Clarke, who earned a Master of Arts degree in education from MVSU. Clarke is a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives and has served as the chair of the House Education Committee.
Gallery of Notable Alumni
What is the most notable achievement of Mississippi Valley State University alumni?
+One of the most notable achievements of MVSU alumni is the number of successful athletes who have gone on to compete in the Olympics and professional sports leagues.
Who is the most notable MVSU alumnus in academia?
+Dr. Jewel Plummer Cobb is the most notable MVSU alumnus in academia, who earned a Ph.D. in biology from New York University and went on to become the president of California State University, Fullerton.
What is the most notable achievement of MVSU alumni in the arts and entertainment industry?
+Wendy Raquel Robinson's successful acting and singing career is one of the most notable achievements of MVSU alumni in the arts and entertainment industry.
As we conclude this article, it is clear that Mississippi Valley State University has produced a remarkable number of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. From academia and research to athletics and the arts, MVSU alumni have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and perseverance. We hope that this article has inspired you to learn more about the achievements of MVSU alumni and the university's rich history and tradition of excellence.