Education
Introducing the 2022 recipients of the Frank Crump, Jr. Next Generation Scholarship
Marquasia Smith
Marquasia Smith, a graduate of Vicksburg High and class valedictorian received the top award of $1000. Marquasia plans to attend Mississippi State University, majoring in Computer Science to become a software engineer. Marquasia’s introduction to computers and technology as a potential career path, was during a local college tour when she was fourteen. In her sophomore year at Vicksburg High, Marquasia learned to code and create apps, games, and websites. She also took advantage of free online coding sites to learn C++, JavaScript, and Python. Appreciative of all the support she has received, Marquasia is committed to making a difference for future generations.
“Most people tend to go on about their lives and forget about the place they called home, but I refuse to do that,” said Marquasia. “I want kids in the generations after me to know that no matter how successful you are, it is always great to give back to your community.”
Jannifer Banks
Jannifer Banks realized her love for math in elementary school. “The timed multiplication tests were my favorite,” quipped Jannifer. Studying robotics in middle school, the dual credit engineering courses she completed and the GEMS (Gains in the Education of Math & Sciences) summer camp at ERDC influenced her career ambition to become an engineer and own an engineering firm. She is seeking a summer internship with the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to gain more experience and knowledge in her chosen field. Jannifer is a graduate of Vicksburg High and will attend Jackson State University, majoring in civil engineering.
Ashton Murphy
Preceded by three generations of Alcornites, twin brothers, Aron and Ashton Murphy were all but destined to attend Alcorn State University. “We have been going to Alcorn all our lives, to programs, activities, and sporting events. We volunteered as ball boys with the Alcorn Braves football equipment team since we were in the sixth grade,” said Aron. For the Murphy brothers, Alcorn is family. Aron will major in criminal justice and wants to become a State Game Warden. Ashton plans to study exercise science. His career ambition is to become an exercise psychologist.
Aron Murphy
The Frank Crump, Jr. Next Generation Scholarship is named for educator and activist Frank Crump, Jr. Scholarships are awarded to students pursuing STEM-related studies and who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and service to the community. Award recipients commit to mentoring seniors in the next graduating class at their respective schools to help them navigate the college admissions process. Since 2014, the Frank Crump, Jr. Educational Foundation with support from donors has awarded 42 scholarships totaling $28,200.
