Just 3½ years ago, Indonesia Jackson graduated Pine Bluff High School as its valedictorian.
“Three other young Black women and I were valedictorians of our respective high schools in the Pine Bluff area. That had never happened,” she said.
All had received scholarships to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, but Jackson initially planned to attend Grambling State University, wanting a change of scenery.
“What made me stay was not only the fact that (UAPB was) recruiting me, but the fact that it valued me and did not see me as just a number,” Jackson said. “I can truly say there’s no place like home.”
Jackson offered the student reflection in UAPB’s fall 2024 commencement Saturday morning at the Pine Bluff Convention Center, the same venue where she delivered her valedictory address as a Zebra. She took the stage on three occasions, following her speech by receiving one of five Chancellor’s Medallion awards and then receiving her bachelor’s degree in English.
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“I stand here today to say that we are strong individuals, and to be young, Black and educated in this world, we are already doing our part to make a change for the betterment of our country,” Jackson said.
This was the first graduation ceremony with Interim Chancellor Andrea Stewart at the helm. Of the 119 students who received degrees, one — Sujan Bhattarai — received a doctorate in aquaculture and fisheries, and 15 earned master’s degrees. Jackson was one of five students to graduate summa cum laude (3.75-4.0 grade-point average), joining Kerissa Gipson, Brooke Robinson, Morgan White and Jurnea Stanley.
James L. Moore III, the assistant director for the Directorate for STEM Education at the National Science Foundation, gave the keynote address. Moore oversees nearly 200 employees and an annual budget of more than $1 billion.
“I know, like all graduates, you are concerned about your future, your career choice and what is available, but rest assured, you are prepared,” Moore said. “My education has changed the places I’ve gone, the hands I shook and the people I’ve met, and it’s also given me an opportunity to give also back as a public servant. There’s always a need for public service.”
Moore challenged the graduates to think about the communities where they grew up and give back to these places and UAPB.
“No matter where you go and the successes you have, it’s important to give back to the places that molded and shaped you,” he said. “As you embark on your existential career journeys, make a commitment to pay forward your success by creating opportunities for others. It creates a path for others. It can be a rich and rewarding experience for you as well as those who visit you.”
The Chancellor’s Medallion is awarded to the top ranking student in each of UAPB’s schools. Jackson, who scored a 3.975 grade-point average, plans to attend law school with hopes of pursuing corporate and criminal law, as well as open businesses within Pine Bluff.
The other Medallion awardees:
Morgan White of Pine Bluff, School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences (regulatory science/agriculture major), 3.913 GPA;
Kalandra Washington of Earle, School of Education (elementary education major), 3.9 GPA;
India Luckey of Crossett, School of Business and Management (business administration), 3.727 GPA;
Mohamed Soumare of Harlem, N.Y., Division of University College (general studies major), 3.496 GPA.
Christopher Scroggins was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.
And, like the other 118 graduates, Damon Walker of Dallas is off to his future with a degree in agriculture business. Walker discovered UAPB, he said, wanting to take in different experiences with different people.
“I would have never guessed we’d be here, but we’re here,” Walker said. “It’s over.”
James L. Moore III of the National Science Foundation addresses the 119 graduates of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s fall 2024 class on Saturday, Dec. 14, at the Convention Center. (Pine Bluff Commercial/I.C. Murrell)
Winners of the Chancellor’s Medallion are honored for being the top-ranking students in each school of UAPB: from left, Morgan White of the School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences; Indonesia Jackson of the School of Arts and Sciences; India Luckey of the School of Business and Management; Kalandra Washington of the School of Education; Mohamed Soumare of the Division of University College. (Pine Bluff Commercial/I.C. Murrell)
Tyreke Madriz-Jinks walks into the Convention Center arena as a graduate from the University College. (Pine Bluff Commercial/I.C. Murrell)
Family members root on Toree Brion Flenon as he receives his degree in industrial technology, management and applied engineering. (Pine Bluff Commercial/I.C. Murrell)
Family members pin Christopher Scroggins as he is commissioned a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. (Pine Bluff Commercial/I.C. Murrell)