Coleman Alexander Prosser, Inc., Beta Delta Omega Chapter of AKA awards $19,000 in scholarships

JANS – The Coleman Alexander Prosser Foundation, Inc. (CAP, Inc.), the charitable arm of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated – Beta Delta Omega Chapter, recognized and celebrated 19 outstanding graduating seniors who have been awarded the Florence Octavia Alexander (FOA) Scholarship. A total of $19,000.00 in scholarships was awarded.  

Florence Octavia Alexander was a distinguished Mississippi educator and Jackson State University alumna who is remembered as a pioneer in expanding educational opportunities for Black students in Mississippi. She was born in Lincoln County near Summit, Mississippi, and attended Jackson College (now Jackson State University), where she graduated as valedictorian in 1912. She continued her education at Hampton Institute in Hampton, Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree, and later a Master of Arts from Columbia University.

She worked as Director of Education and Placement at Jackson College and the Mississippi State Department of Education, where she was recognized for her contributions to educational development. Her legacy is also honored at Jackson State University through Florence Octavia Alexander Hall (Alexander Hall), a residence hall named for her as a renowned educator and alumna.

Beta Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. named the Florence Octavia Alexander Scholarships in her honor, where she was an active member. She served two terms as Chapter President. She was initiated into the Alpha Epsilon Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The scholarships are awarded to students from Central Mississippi schools who have been admitted to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Recipients have demonstrated excellence in education, community service, and school engagement. 

These exceptional scholars represent high schools throughout the Jackson Public School District and the Hinds County School District and have committed to continuing their education at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The Florence Octavia Alexander Scholarship honors students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, community service, and a commitment to excellence. Through this investment, CAP, Inc. continues its mission of empowering young people and supporting the next generation of leaders.

On Sunday, June 28, 2026, CAP, Inc. hosted the 2026 Florence Octavia Alexander Scholarship Awards Program at the Beta Delta Omega Center. The program’s theme was “Investing in Dreams, Empowering Futures.” The program featured Christie Levy, who inspired the scholars with an encouraging message titled, “What to Expect When You Go To College.” Her practical advice and words of encouragement challenged the students to embrace the opportunities, responsibilities, and growth that lie ahead as they begin their college journeys. 

Tasha McCullar, President of CAP, Inc., said, “We believe education is one of the greatest investments we can make. Every scholarship awarded today represents more than financial support – it is an investment in dreams, leadership, and the limitless potential of these outstanding students. It is our hope that each recipient will use the opportunities before them to achieve excellence and, in turn, inspire and uplift others.” Michelle Guy, President of Beta Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., encouraged recipients to continue to strive for excellence and enjoy their college journey.

The 2026 Florence Octavia Alexander Scholarship recipients are Jaliya Barnes, Clinton High School; Jaliyah Bell, Murrah High School; Skyla K. Burns, Raymond High School; Charlie Davis, IV, Terry High School; Gevin Dennis, Lanier High School; Airia Denson-Burton, Clinton High School; Makayla Garrett, Terry High School; Madison A. Harris, Clinton High School; Charles Higgins, III, Raymond High School; Antonio Holden, Callaway High School; Faith Malembeka, JPS-Tougaloo Early College High School; Anna Martin, JPS-Tougaloo Early College High School; Laila Mickens, Clinton High School; Taylor Moffett, Murrah High School; Marvin Sanders, JPS-Tougaloo Early College High School; Cortez Thomas, Raymond High School; Kennedi Walker, Forest Hill High School; Robert Wesley, Lanier High School; and Emaleigh Wilson, Jim Hill High School.

The scholarship recipients will be attending, Jackson State University, Alcorn State University, Tougaloo College, Southern University and A&M College, Tennessee State University, Clark Atlanta University, Hinds Community College/Utica Campus, Alabama State University, Spelman College, and Lane College.

Members of the Scholarship and Awards Committee were Dr. Gwendolyn Dawkins; Chair, Ms. Tasha McCullar, President, CAP, Inc.; Ms. Michelle Guy, President, Beta Delta Omega Chapter; Ms. Regan Jackson, Vice- President, Beta Delta Omega; Ms. Christie Levy; Dr. Ruby Denson; Mrs. Jenice Tate; Dr. Jorri Davis; Dr. Pamela Self; Mrs. Burbette Taylor; Ms. Victoria Johnson; Ms. Malika Wilson; Ms. Jasmine Gibson; and Mrs. Stephanie Chatman. 

The Beta Delta Omega Chapter and CAP, Inc. remain committed to investing in the educational success of the youth and empowering the next generation of leaders through scholarship and service.