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It’s Member on the Move time!
This week we are highlighting Mrs. Cheryl Hearn from Jackson, MS.

Cheryl received her BA in English from Jackson State University (‘95). She is also a graduate of The University of Mississippi School of Law.
While attending JSU, she was active in the tutoring program, Honors college and Delta Pi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Hearn is a Senior Assistant City Attorney with the City of Memphis Law Division.
She also serves as Legal Committee chairman for the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter and is a member of Memphis Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Why did you choose JSU?
To be honest, I always say JSU chose me. My plan was to attend an HBCU, but I was looking at other options. Due to family ties at JSU (as well as the academic scholarship offered by JSU), circumstances worked out such that I landed at JSU and it was one of the best decisions I have made.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
My favorite memories from JSU are hanging out on the plaza at noon, and attending all the football games (and parties of course!). Also, I met all my closest and dearest friends at JSU so that is special for me.

Favorite rival game to attend?
JSU v. Southern

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
I most enjoy the activities that we engage in that provide exposure about JSU to the upcoming generation. I also enjoy getting to know other alumni in the area.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself.
My siblings and parents all went to MVSU—I am known as the defector for attending JSU. 

It’s Member on the Move time!

We are closing out the month with Mr. Kelvin Gates .
Kelvin is an ‘88 Computer Science major of Jackson State University. He also received a Master of Business Administration from Dowling College (2015).

Kelvin is a Senior Pricing Analyst for Federal Express here in Memphis.
He is also a Certified Spinning Instructor and Rising Star Awardee (FedEX).
During his off time, Kelvin serves in the Men’s ministry at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church.

Why did you choose JSU?
I choose Jackson State University because at the time it had one of the best Computer Science departments for an HBCU in the nation. In addition, I wanted to attend a HBCU because of the rich tradition that I had seen in my family members who attended HBCU’s. The level of success and the lifelong friendships in their lives that they gained from attending HBCU’s, I wanted that as well. So when a scholarship opportunity and a chance to pursue my career goals in computer science from a great university. I started my path for success and lifelong Jacksonians in my life.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
There isn’t enough space to capture all the great times I had while at JSU. From attending classes and learning to sporting events. However, if I did have to pick one thing it would have to be enjoying time on our “JSU PLAZA”. This was a great meeting place to meet new friends for freshmen year at parties. Then as you advanced it became the place to meet friends in between classes. It was the place that fraternities/sororities stepped, made announcements for SGA offices, political events that effected our university, exchange ideas and did I mention parties. It’s ICONIC and still I make my way to this MECCA each homecoming.

Favorite rival game to attend?
The Soul Bowl vs Alcorn State University. That’s because 2 of my siblings attended Alcorn so it’s bragging rights in our family for the year. Also we have a great tailgate that is has grown and turned into a family reunion.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
The best part of being a member of our chapter is helping raise money an awareness for Memphis area high school students to pursue an education at #theeIlove. Also our social events and getting to know the Jacksonians in the Memphis area and sharing in the great times we had at school across different eras.

Fun fact about yourself, your family, etc.
I have definitely developed and pursued my favorite two hobbies, cooking and photography. Also I am a certified spinning instructor and teach at two local gym LaFitness and Germantown Athletic Center 

It’s Member on the Move time!

This week we are highlighting Dillon H. Robinson.
Dillon is an ‘09 Biology major of Jackson State University from Crystal Springs, MS.
He received his Master of Public Health in Epidemiology in 2011 (University of Georgia).
While at JSU he was an active in several activities including: Student Government Association President, Tiger P.R.I.D.E. Connection, RISE Biomedical Researching Program, Blue Key National Honor Society, and Delta Phi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

Dillon is a Clinical Research Monitor at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital here in Memphis. His current civic affiliations include: New Memphis Institute Embark Program Alumnus, Society of Clinical Research Associates, and JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter Student Recruitment and Success Co-chair.
He has also received special recognition for his professional and community service such as:
-2019 Jackson State University National Alumni Association Young Alumni Achievement Award
-2019 Memphis Grizzlies Scholars Mentoring Above and Beyond Award
-2018 Memphis Grizzlies Scholars Mentor of the Year Award
-National Institutes of Health Cancer Research Fellow, Clinical Research Professional Certification (2014-present)

Why did you choose JSU?
My first true introduction to Jackson State University occurred while participating in the JSU Upward Bound Program. The summer after my high school graduation, I participated in the Bridge Program sponsored by the JSU College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. It was in this program that I was introduced to Dr. Mark G. Hardy (then Dean of the college). I was inspired to see someone who looked like me in the sciences! He encouraged me to rethink my college choice and I did just that. With his mentorship and the support of my extended JSU family, four years later I was a graduate of JSU with a B.S. degree in Biology.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
My favorite memories from undergraduate would definitely be hanging out with my friends (especially #THEECrew) and line-brothers. I’ll always cherish the spontaneous mini vacations, dinners at Wing Stop, and countless laughs.

Favorite rival game to attend?
Jackson State University vs. Southern University Baton Rouge

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
I enjoy spending time and speaking with the older alum in the chapter. It is always intriguing to hear their stories and observe their love for the university years after they have walked across the commencement stage!