
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!