Delta State\u2019s group of Okra Scholars students received a special visit Wednesday from U.S. Congressman Bennie Thompson of Mississippi.<\/p>\n
Thompson was on campus for the Delta State University Colloquia Distinguished Speakers Lecture Series to speak about the 2016 national elections.<\/p>\n
Congressman Thompson spoke to students and mentors about how various cultures view politics.<\/p>\n
Dr. Jon Westfall, coordinator of Okra Scholars, said it was a great opportunity for the students to interact with a U.S. congressman.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of the key areas that Okra Scholars focuses on is culture, and it is vital to understand how our government works to understand how it shapes our cultural viewpoints,\u201d said Westfall. \u201cWith the election on everyone\u2019s mind, it is vital our students have access to our leaders, to better understand our country.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is the duty of all citizens and guests of the United States to know how our government operates, and while textbooks and news channels may provide some of this, there is no substitution for hearing it from the source,\u201d he added. \u201cThere are only 535 members of Congress \u2014 and we cannot miss opportunities to hear their views, as we\u2019re the ones empowering them to act on our behalf.\u201d<\/p>\n
Westfall said Okra Scholars embraces a holistic approach to student preparedness, and while academic preparation and career readiness are often stressed, it is culture that will influence the lives of Delta State students far more than grades or job titles.<\/p>\n