By Aron Smith
Jackson State University proudly announces that over 1500 students have achieved President’s or Dean’s List honors for Fall 2023.
The President’s List consists of students who have completed at least 15 semester hours with a perfect grade-point average of 4.00 during a regular semester. Similarly, the Dean’s List comprises students who have completed at least 15 semester hours with a grade-point average ranging from 3.00 to 3.99.
Among the scholars are Selena Basden, KaPri Burden, and Brian Koringo, who have excelled academically and demonstrated exemplary leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Basden, a sophomore chemistry major and member of the Alpha Lambda Honors Society, attributes her success to effective time management and the support of her peers. Despite managing multiple responsibilities, including work-study commitments, Basden remains dedicated to serving her community and supporting her classmates.
She emphasized, “Carrying several responsibilities has instilled in me the value of prioritizing service to others above my needs. I’ve come to understand that sacrifice is inherent in pursuing excellence.”
Burden, a senior computer engineering major, has successfully balanced academic pursuits with responsibilities such as on-campus part-time work, research student, secretary of academic affairs for the Student Government Association (SGA), and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Motivated by her family and driven by her status as a first-generation student, she remains committed to academic excellence and personal growth.
“I’m thankful for the support of my community, including family, friends, and faculty, who encourage me and accommodate my academic and research endeavors,” said Burden, reflecting on her journey. “Despite facing adversity, including the loss of my mother to cancer at a young age, I remain steadfast in honoring her legacy through my achievements.”
Despite personal tragedy and financial hardships, Burden persists, aiming to graduate summa cum laude as a testament to her dedication and to upholding her mother’s legacy through academic success.
“I remain steadfast in honoring her legacy through my achievements, proving that regardless of background, success is attainable through perseverance,” she said.
Koringo, a junior majoring in computer science and a full-time research student, has been named to the President’s and Dean’s Lists five times.
Despite the challenges of navigating life as an international student from Kenya, Koringo emphasizes the importance of time management for his rigorous academic schedule and community support.
“As an international student embarking on the journey of higher education, cultural adaptation has been a cornerstone of my experience, fueling my determination to succeed,” Koringo shared. “Despite the physical distance from my family, the vast resources available for support on campus have been instrumental in shaping my academic journey.”
