Leaders from Itawamba Community College and Delta State University pose following the signing of two memorandums of understanding on the Fulton Campus. Front row, from left, are Michelle Clouse, vice president of instructional services at ICC; Jay Allen, ICC president; Dan Ennis, DSU president; and Leslie Griffin, provost and vice president for academic affairs at DSU. Back row, from left, are Chris Stevenson, dean of academic instruction at ICC; Chris Cox, education department lead at ICC; Merideth Van Namen, dean of the College of Education at DSU; and Jeffrey Leffler, associate provost and vice president for academic affairs at DSU. Photo by CJ Adams, ICC Community Relations. CLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University and Itawamba Community College have strengthened their partnership through the signing of two new memorandums of understanding designed to expand academic opportunities and improve support services for transfer students.
The agreements were formally signed Tuesday during an official visit to ICC’s Fulton Campus by Delta State President Dr. Daniel J. Ennis and ICC President Dr. Jay Allen.
The first of the agreements establishes a streamlined transfer pathway for ICC students seeking to earn a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Delta State. The partnership is designed to simplify the transfer process by aligning coursework between the two institutions while also outlining advising expectations and admission requirements for participating students.
A second agreement focuses on supporting students enrolled in ICC’s Bloom Connect Program as they transition to Delta State. The program serves neurodivergent students, and the partnership creates a more coordinated transfer experience through designated institutional contacts, organized campus visits and the sharing of transition documentation with student consent to help ensure continuity of support services.
“These agreements reflect our commitment to creating clear, intentional pathways for students while ensuring they are supported every step of the way,” Allen said.
Ennis said the collaboration reflects both institutions’ shared investment in student achievement and long-term success.
He said, “By aligning our programs and services, we are providing more opportunities for students to continue their education and reach their goals.”
The agreements take effect immediately and may remain active for up to five years, further strengthening collaboration between the two institutions while creating expanded educational opportunities for students throughout the region.
