Jakori Johnson, a computer information systems major from Greenwood, worked with after-school youth groups, teaching them basic computer skills. CLEVELAND, Miss. — Thirteen Delta State University Honors Program students successfully completed service-learning projects during the recently, benefiting communities across the Mississippi Delta. The projects addressed diverse needs, including youth education, community wellness, animal care, and support for senior citizens.
Student initiatives ranged from organizing coat and equipment drives, revitalizing a school garden, and hosting wellness activities for Delta State students, to performing concerts for residents in local assisted living facilities. Additional projects included volunteering at the Cleveland/Bolivar County Animal Shelter and teaching digital literacy to elementary school students.
The projects were part of HON 102: Theory and Practice of Service-Learning, a required course that combines academic study with civic engagement. Students developed their projects by aligning their strengths, skills, and interests with research and community needs.
“Service learning connects academics with civic engagement, and I am proud of the Honors Program students in HON 102,” said Don Allan Mitchell, Honors Program director and associate professor of English. “Their projects demonstrated creativity, leadership, and problem-solving skills. This course helps students build meaningful connections with the campus and local communities while developing a sense of purpose through public service.”
Digital Literacy for Delta Youth
Jakori Johnson, a computer information systems major from Greenwood, Miss., partnered with C2K Ministries to teach K-6 students basic computer skills.
“In today’s technology-driven world, digital literacy is crucial,” Johnson said. “Many children from underserved communities lack basic computer skills. My project aimed to bridge this gap by teaching students how to use a mouse and keyboard, navigate websites, and understand basic software applications.”
Animal Welfare Advocacy
Pre-veterinary biology major Meredith Seeley, from Merigold, Miss., and environmental science major Molly Mellen, from Cleveland, Miss., volunteered at the Cleveland-Bolivar County Animal Shelter. Seeley focused on training and socializing dogs, while Mellen worked with cats.
“Older and black-coated dogs are often overlooked for adoption,” Seeley explained. “I trained long-term shelter residents in basic obedience and leash walking, which improves their chances of finding homes. I also promoted these dogs through photos and videos on social media.”
Jamie Grant, director of the shelter, praised their efforts. “Meredith and Molly provided invaluable support, helping animals develop social skills that increase adoption opportunities. Their passion and dedication made a significant difference, and we hope future Honors students continue this impactful work.”
Building Community Among Students
Giulia Scardigno, a flight operations major from Hernando, Miss., organized seminars for aviation students to foster community and address common challenges.
“Starting as a new student can be intimidating, especially with many courses now online,” Scardigno said. “These seminars shared tips for overcoming challenges, managing time, and accessing resources, creating a supportive environment for students.”
Music for Senior Communities
Kaitlyn Rocquin, an entertainment industry studies major from Cleveland, Miss., performed live music for residents at local senior facilities.
“The residents’ favorite song was my version of Outkast’s ‘Hey Ya!’,” Rocquin said. “This experience was incredibly rewarding. I gained confidence performing solo, connected with incredible people, and heard stories spanning lifetimes. It was a positive experience for everyone involved.”
Insights from Guest Speakers
The semester also featured guest speakers who shared diverse perspectives on public service:
- C.T. Salazar, Delta State archivist, discussed his work facilitating a Mississippi Humanities Council-funded book club with inmates at Parchman Penitentiary.
- Dr. Suzette Matthews, vice president of university advancement, shared insights on philanthropy and networking.
- Rori Eddie Herbison, a Delta State alumna, highlighted her nonprofit work with the Delta Arts Alliance and Together for Hope.
- Sanford Johnson, executive director of Teach Plus Mississippi, engaged students in discussions on advocacy, education, and public policy.
For more information about the Honors Program at Delta State, email Don Allan Mitchell at honors@deltastate.edu.
To support Honors student service-learning projects, please consider donating to the BellSouth Honors Program Fund at the Delta State University Foundation (Fund Code: BHONR 22086). Contact Caroline Alderson at 662-846-4708 or calderson@deltastate.edu for details.
