Category: Members on the Move

It’s Member on the Move time!

This week we are highlighting Eboni Rideout of Memphis, TN.
Rideout is an ‘98 Political Science major from Jackson State University.
She also received her MS in Criminal Justice (2002) and Education Certification (2009) from TSU and Union University.
While at JSU, she was involved in several activities including: the Jackson State University Marching Band (The Sonic Boom of the South), Tennessee Club and The Insatiable Modeling Squad.

Ms. Rideout is currently employed with the Shelby County Schools system as a high school AP Govt/Economics/ Honors educator and as an Adjunct Dual Enrollment instructor for Southwest Tennessee Community College.
She is also a Published author ( “Juvenile Recidivism” 2003), Small business owner of younailedit.org nail polish line, and hairapytherapy.net hair care for kids, men and women, and Facial Xpressions by Eboni skin care products.

Ms. Rideout is active in the community serving with various civic organizations including: Member of World Overcomers Outreach Ministries Church, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC., The Sonic Boom of the South Alumni Association, Jackson State University National Alumni Association/Memphis Chapter, former member of Melrose High School Alumni Association, Co-Sponsor of MHS Student Government Association, and Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Honor Society.

Why did you choose JSU?
I chose Jackson State University because of its challenging academics especially in the Political Science program with classes that prepared me for internships and graduate school, diversity and culture amongst students, the many different organizations that met my social needs. The environment was and still is very family oriented, caring and committed to ensuring that EVERY students meets their FULL potential.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
My favorite and most fun memory of Jackson State University is attending band practice in preparation to give THEE best show to dedicated fans of the Sonic Boom of the South each and every Saturday during football season.

Favorite rival game to attend?
WOW…favorite rival game….that would be the Southern Heritage Classic…because I am from Memphis and all of my family members attended and graduated from “that university” housed in Nashville…the trash talking that happens and the fact that I broke tradition to attend Jackson State University has been going on since 1992.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
What I enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter is the fact that the members are like family. Awesome things are happening with our local chapter and for the university as a whole, we do our best to take care of and keep in contact with students who are attending and we look out for one another. It is also great to see familiar faces of those who matriculated through the university together in the same era. We are a pretty creative active bunch.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself, your family, etc.
A fun fact that I’d like to share is that I am currently learning ASL (American Sign Language), love to read, travel, spend time with family, friends, singles connection group with my church and my beloved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC

It’s Member on the Move time!

This week we are highlighting Dr. Danielle Hassel, MD of Birmingham, AL.
Hassel is an ‘00 graduate from Jackson State University.
While at JSU, she was involved in several activities including: W.E.B Dubois Honors College, JSU Dance ensemble, Senior class President and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Dr. Hassel is currently the Associate Medical Director for Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of North Memphis. She has practiced for over 10 years and held many leadership roles including the previous Chief physician of the Spinal Cord Injury Unit at the Memphis VA Medical Center. Hassle is board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, specializing in the rehab of individuals recovering from traumatic brain injuries, strokes, spinal cord injuries, and amputations.

In January, Dr. Hassel became the first African American female elected as President of the Memphis Medical Society in the organization’s 144 year old history. As President, she represents more than 2,300 professionals in the Memphis area. Some of her other accomplishments include: Memphis Business Journal Top 40 under 40 Honoree and Consumers’ Research Council “Top Physician”.

Dr. Hassel is also active in the community serving with various civic organizations including: American Heart Association, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority (Shelby County), and UT medical student mentor.

Why did you choose JSU?
I was not very familiar with HBCUs before meeting JSU reps at a college fair. I was intrigued by the Honors College and opportunity for full scholarship. So, after visiting campus on High School Day and seeing all the excitement, I was sold!

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
The most obvious favorite memory is football season and all the activities that come with that. But a unique fun experience was traveling with fellow science majors on a sponsored trip to New York for the first time. Staying at the World Trade Center Marriott and exploring the city was priceless.

Favorite rival game to attend?
Capital City Classic to close out the season with a bang!

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
I enjoy hearing about the successes of local fellow alums and find it refreshing to share a special commonality with other members.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself, your family, etc.
I am blessed with a husband and 2 daughters that continuously remind me of God’s majesty.

It’s Member on the Move time!

This week we are highlighting Chiketa Jiles of Ft. Hood/Copperas Cove, TX.
Jiles is an ‘05 Computer Science graduate from Jackson State University. She also has a MS in Information Systems from Strayer University. While at JSU, she was in the W.E.B Dubois Honors College.
Jiles is currently a Web Engineer / Developer for Booz Allen Hamilton, a government contracting agency.

Why did you choose JSU?
My family is from Yazoo City, MS and I have a number of aunts, an uncle, and a few cousins who graduated from Jackson State. My father also played baseball for the school and it was all I heard about growing up. I ultimately wanted to follow in their footsteps and receive an education from an HBCU!

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
My whole time at Jackson State was a great memory. Forming new friendships, learning and leaning on other students who looked like me, and attending football games.

Favorite rival game to attend?
I have lived in Memphis since High School, so of course my favorite game is the Southern Heritage.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
I enjoy meeting and working with others who love Jackson State. We all have the same goal in mind, which is to give back to our dear ole college home and to assist those who are coming after us.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself, your family, etc.
I grew up an army brat and I absolutely love my family. They mean the world to me. I am currently the web administrator for the Memphis chapter and provide web design and administrator services for other nonprofits and small businesses. It’s something that I love to do!

It’s Member on the Move time!

This week we are highlighting Dr. Ollie Liddell of Jackson, MS.
Lidell is an ‘06 Science graduate from Jackson State University. He has also received his Master of Music (2016); and Doctor of Philosophy (2020 ) from other institutions.
While at JSU, he participated in several organizations including:
The Sonic Boom of the South, Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble, Chemistry Society, and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. – Alpha Beta Chapter.

Liddell is currently the Director of Bands at Central High school where he leads a marching band of 150 students. In addition to his classroom duties, He also lends his expertise to several civic organizations including: Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., West TN School Band and Orchestra Association, and the American Bandmasters Association.

Liddell has received many awards for his band including:
Superior Rated Concert Band Performance, Jazz Band and Jazz Combo 2012-2020
Superior Rated Marching Band 2008 – 2019
Grand National Champions – 2017, 2018 High-Stepping Nationals Show Band
AAAA National Champions – 2017, 2018 High-Stepping Nationals Show Band
First Place and Faircloth Award Winner – Swing Central Jazz National HS Jazz Competition 2019
Central High School Band Featured in “Bring It” Lifetime Network 2018 Season
Winner of the 2020 Essentially Ellington Equity and Inclusion Initiative
161 Students were named to All-West Tennessee Band
23 Students were named to the Tennessee All-State Band

Some of his individual recognitions include:
Gamma Beta Phi Graduate Honor Society, University of Mississippi
Pi Kappa Lambda Graduate Honor Society, University of Mississippi
PhD Student of the Year, University of Mississippi 2017
Minority Scholar Fellowship, University of Mississippi
TEM Level 5 Teacher( 2012- 2019)

Why did you choose JSU?
JSU runs through my blood. I have loved JSU since birth. My father, 3 uncles, 3 brothers, 2 sisters, dozens of cousins, and even my daughter all graduated from JSU. I had an academic and band scholarship to JSU. I also participated in a summer program before my senior year in high school in chemistry and I loved the faculty.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
I can not pick one memory. My time at JSU was the greatest in my life. The ones that come strongest to me are my time marching in the Boom, winning EVERY step show (we Sigmas were undefeated while I was there), and just the dozens of long lasting friendships that were formed.

Favorite rival game to attend? Southern – (SUcks)

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter? Helping current students

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself.
I still play trombone professionally. I played for Marvin Sease, Mel Waiters, Bobby Bland, Parliament Funkadelic, and others before I started teaching.

It’s Member on the Move time!

We are closing out the month Mr. Jeffery Daniel Parker of Farmhaven, MS.
Parker is an ‘06 Childcare & Family Education major from Jackson State University. He also received his M.Ed in Early Childhood Education (2008); and Ed.S in Educational Leadership & Supervision (2012).
While at JSU, he participated in Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
and Phi Delta Kappa.

Parker is currently a site Manager for Porter-Leath at the Covington Pike Head Start. He also lends his expertise to several civic organizations including: NAACP Memphis Branch member, First Baptist Church Broad member and United Way Committee Member at Porter-Leath, where his team received special recognition for obtaining 100% donor participation in the United Way Campaign for 2020-2021.

Why did you choose JSU?
I chose Jackson State University because it was simply the best in the state. From a toddler, I was in those stands cheering for our football team and traveling up and down the highway. I knew in high school that I wanted to attend a HBCU that was close to home and was known for producing great educators. I was almost persuaded to attend Tougaloo College but I stuck with my gut. Coming from a small town, I didn’t initially want to be too far away from home. JSU provided me with the experiences and knowledge needed for the real world ahead. Throughout my program, I had the opportunity to observe various childcare facilities around the city of Jackson in efforts to build a sense of reality and professionalism. Jackson State University challenged me to go beyond just good enough and forced me to be more competitive in my everyday work. The relationships formed will have a lasting impact on my career.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
My most fun memory was probably leaving work each night driving back to the campus just in time to see the Sonic Boom of the South come through Plaza. I enjoyed just clowning with my friends that actually stayed on campus. Not to mention, only the restaurants in that area took the famous Supercard! I don’t have to tell you that football season was the most exciting time of the year for undergraduate students.

Favorite rival game to attend?
Jackson State University vs Alcorn State University; mainly because my church members at the time were die hard alums. I especially enjoyed the tailgates and bragging rights when we came out on top!!! The comradery alone was enough to have us eagerly waiting for November each season.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
When moving to Memphis, TN at a moment’s notice, Lawrence and I didn’t know but a few people. We noticed on Facebook one random Saturday that the Memphis Alumni Chapter was having a social at Love. I hesitated the entire week about going because I didn’t know what to expect. I opened the door and immediately saw my childhood friend who basically pulled us on in the building. I enjoy the atmosphere of being around like-minded individuals who have become my extended family. The chapter is filled with genuine people who just love their school and they show us love. We laugh, brainstorm, participate in community service events, fundraisers, and simply enjoy each other. Since joining, it has been my goal to bring in a few new members each fiscal year.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself, your family, etc.
I am the son of James and Patricia Parker of Canton, MS. I have two brothers, James Roderick and Jamarcus. I get tons of enjoyment in spending time with family and friends from near and far. I enjoy traveling to different cities, sporting events, and eating at new restaurants. My pride and joy are my nieces and nephews of whom keep me on my toes and focused on my goals. I am very competitive so if you challenge me to something, I reach for the stars!

It’s Member on the Move time!

This week we are highlighting Ms. Gracie Pitts of Byhalia, MS.
Pitts is a ‘76 Special Education major of Jackson State University. She also received her MSE from Arkansas State University (1980).

While at JSU, she participated in several activities including: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority member and Miss Zeta Phi Beta (homecoming court); tutoring with Jackson Public Schools, Juvenile delinquency counselor volunteer, and Alumni Affairs office worker for Dr. Lackey.

Pitts retired from the school system after 35 plus years of teaching. She was an exemplary Career II/ level 5 teacher, nominated for a rotary teacher award. She also served as a Before and after school coordinator for special needs students.
Pitts currently serves as an active certified foster parent for the State of Tennessee with Omnivision and helps train potential foster parents. She is a Member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church. Pitts is also an active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and former Executive Board member for JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter. She received an award from the national alumni association for her chapter fundraising activity.

Why did you choose JSU?
I chose Jackson State University because it was a prestigious Historically Black University that offered many learning opportunities to become successful. It also provided a nurturing environment that offered a vision that “failure wasn’t an option.”

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
Meeting and interacting with individuals from all over the world, great learning opportunities, extra-curricular activities and social events on campus.

Favorite rival game to attend?
My favorite rival games are Tennessee State and Mississippi Valley State.

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
The comradery and working with fellow Jacksonians, with a mission to promote, recruit, and provide financial support to keep the university striving. I also like the strong diverse leadership we have within our chapter.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself, your family, etc.
Traveling and spending quality time with my children, grandchildren, sister and extended family are the most rewarding fun activities. Planning and cooking for holiday events brings joy to my heart.

It’s Member on the Move time!

We are opening the month with Mr. Leroy Smith of Memphis, TN.
Smith is a ‘73 graduate of Jackson State University. He was an athlete and played football for the JSU Tigers.
Smith retired from the Commercial Appeal Newspaper as Circulation Sales Manager after 43 years of service. He started the newspaper’s hawker sellers distribution program to ensure people in low income areas could stay busy, out of trouble and support their families. He received the President’s Award, the highest award at the newspaper.

Smith currently volunteers as a Board member for Shelby Residential Vocational Services (SRVS) helping the organization to support individuals with disabilities through a variety of programs and services. He also serves as Trustee administrator for Old Nonconnah MB Church. During this pandemic, he set up the Free Conference Call to ensure members stayed connected. Occasionally, he does motivational speaking at schools and juvenile court.

Why did you choose JSU?
I was enrolled at Arkansas AM&N College (UAPB) on a football scholarship. My Biology teacher coach Ulysses McPherson received the head coaching position at JSU. On different occasions he would ask me to go to visit the campus. The football team, coaches, president John A. Peoples and students overwhelmingly showed me love. And I am grateful to God for the great education I received from Jackson State.

What is your favorite or most fun memory from JSU?
My senior year I was dormitory counselor for the football team. Because of our closeness some of them wanted special privileges. And not follow the rules. Some would play tricks on each other like pouring water under someone’s door or knocking on it and running away. I would have to talk to them about this behavior.

Favorite rival game to attend?
Southern University

What do you enjoy most about being a member of the JSU Memphis Alumni Chapter?
It’s something about getting together for the same purpose that you still have love for JSU. Meeting all of our new young members makes you feel like you went to school together. With all of the diversity we learn from each other and demonstrate love and respect.

Please share any additional fun fact or information about yourself.
I have been married to Florida for 45 wonderful years. We have no biological children, however all children are ours. Florida is a graduate of Knoxville College and a very proud associate Life Member of JSU.

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!