Rust College students selected for prestigious McNair Summer Research Program at the University of Mississippi
JANS – Two Rust College students have been accepted into the Summer 2026 Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program at The University of Mississippi.
Selected for this competitive academic enrichment program are Morgan Stonewall, a senior majoring in Chemistry, and Amorion April, a senior majoring in Sociology/Criminal Justice. Their acceptance reflects their academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to pursuing advanced graduate study.
The Ronald E. McNair Program is a nationally recognized initiative designed to prepare undergraduate students for doctoral studies through intensive research opportunities, faculty mentorship, and scholarly development. Participants engage in an interactive summer experience that includes workshops, research projects, seminars, and academic enrichment activities aimed at strengthening their readiness for graduate education.
The University of Mississippi’s McNair Program is one of more than 120 programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education. In collaboration with its partner institutions –Alcorn State University, Rust College, and Tougaloo College – the university operates one of three McNair programs in the state of Mississippi.
“Programs like McNair are transformational for our students,” said Dr. Johnny M. Moore, President of Rust College. “This opportunity allows them to expand their research capacity, engage with scholars across institutions, and further position themselves for success in graduate and doctoral studies.”
Stonewall expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, noting, “I am honored to be selected for the McNair Program. This experience will allow me to deepen my research skills and prepare for the next step in my academic journey.”
April added, “Being chosen for this program is a significant milestone for me. I look forward to engaging in meaningful research and gaining the tools needed to pursue a career in graduate education.
