Alcorn State University October 8, 2021 Alcorn State University awarded over $500,000 for Talent Search program The U.S. Department of Education announced that over $500,000 has been awarded to Alcorn State University for Talent Search. The grant was made possible by Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), of Brookhaven, Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Rep. Michael Guest (R-Miss.). "Alcorn appreciates the continued support of our legislators," said Dr. Felecia M. Nave, president of Alcorn State University. "This investment allows us to help even more high school students reach the finish line to graduation and ease their transition to college." The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education. Funding was also provided to two additional institutions in Mississippi - Southwest Mississippi Community College and Jackson State. According to a press release Sen. Hyde-Smith stated, "These Mississippi institutions understand the challenges that their students encounter. They have been awarded these grants to carry out programs that can help these students overcome barriers and access the higher-paying job opportunities available to graduates with certificates and degrees," Hyde-Smith said. "I'm grateful the U.S. Department of Education recognized the incredible work of SMCC, Jackson State and Alcorn State to educate young people across Mississippi," Guest said. "Increasing student retention Is a critical part of our nation's investment in our future leaders and the emphasis on STEM programs will ensure these students are prepared for a successful career in many important fields of work." Wicker said a college education could be a lifeline for students looking to advance career opportunities. Sandra M. Phoenix, Executive Director HBCU Library Alliance Atlanta University Center Woodruff Library 111 James P. Brawley Drive SW Atlanta, GA 30314 404-702-5854 (cell) http://www.hbculibraries.org<http://www.hbculibraries.org/> sphoenix@hbculibraries.org<mailto:sphoenix@hbculibraries.org> Honor the ancestors, honor the children and those yet to come. Building Capacity for Humanities Special Collections at HBCUs - Become an ally and partner with us to protect, preserve and share a more authentic record of American history. Follow this link http://hbculibraries.org/humanities-2019.html for more information. Follow this link http://hbculibraries.org/ and click on the Donate Now button to invest in this project. Your support is appreciated. Follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hbculibraryalliance1/ and Twitter at https://twitter.com/HBCULibAlliance Check out "PULSE!" The HBCU Library Alliance's News Source! - https://hbculibraryalliance.wordpress.com/