Young Vicksburg native graduates with honors, writes novel

VICKSBURG, Miss., (VDA) — A young Vicksburg native has worked hard to publish his first book all while maintaining honors and graduating from Alcorn State University. 

J’Darius “Jay” Johnson, a 23 year old who graduated from ASU Thursday, Dec. 11, can be an inspiration to all young people of the area. 

Johnson graduated with a Bachelors of Social Work degree while also maintaining membership of Pi Gamma Mu and Pi Alpha Honor Societies. Additionally, he juggled an internship with Mississippi Child Protective Services. During his collegiate career, he was named to Dean’s Lists, President’s Lists, earned scholarships and received a Community Service Distinction from the Department of Social Sciences. 

Johnson was even named Mr. Pi Gamma Mu in the homecoming parade in the Fall 2025 Semester. 

Following graduation, Johnson has no plans of slowing down and has plans of attending law school.,” said Johnson.

“My next major goal is to pursue law school, where I can combine my foundation in social work with advocacy and youth justice,” said Johnson. “I hope to bring both my creative voice and my professional discipline back into the community as a leader and mentor.”

However, Johnson didn’t stop at achieving academic success. He has also written his first novel. 

“Aghast” is Johnson’s debut psychological horror novel. 

“This project has grown into something far larger than a book—it has become a cinematic, film-worthy story that blends psychological depth, suspense, AI deception, and modern social themes. My plan is to publish ‘Aghast’ by the end of 2025, with availability on Kindle as well as hardcover copies. My long-term goal is to adapt the story into a screenplay and help establish young Black authors from Mississippi on the national creative stage. Also while gaining interest from large book publishing companies and literary agents,” explained Johnson. 

The new graduate hopes to turn the novel into a professional book deal. 

“I’m a proud first-time author that worked to turn personal hardships and underdog determination into creative legacy. I’d be honored to share this story with your readers, especially to inspire other young writers in our city and state that it’s completely possible to succeed under any circumstance,” said Johnson.