Mr./Ms. Alumni Contest

Current Residence: Kinston, North Carolina

Favorite Quote or Inspiration: “He who dwells in the shelter of the most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”- Psalm 91:1

Local Alumni Chapter Affiliation: Kinston -Lenoir Alumni Chapter

Academic Preparation: Fayetteville State University-Bachelor of Arts (2008)

Professional , Civic, Community Affiliations: Dedicated community leader and active member of First Missionary Baptist Church, serving on the Usher Board, Trustee Board and as Vacation Bible School Director; Committed to youth development through mentoring and leadership roles with Holloway Recreation Center, Pride of Rochelle Middle School, Project Promise Mentoring Alliance and Gate Developmental Learning Center.

Awards/Recognitions: 2010 Keeper of the Dream Recipient

Hobbies or Interests: Supporting FSU athletic events, traveling and exploring new cultures, serving in church ministries and spending quality time with family and friends.

Contestant Statement: “I am entering Mr./Ms. FSU Alumni contest to honor my mother, Denderant Jones -Burney, a proud Bronco and former President of Kinston-Lenoir Alumni Chapter. Her legacy of service at Fayetteville State University inspires me daily. Rooted in faith, mentorship and community leadership, I live the motto Res Non Verba---Deeds Not Words. I am committed to supporting students with financial needs, strengthening alumni connections, and proudly serving as an ambassador who leads with action, integrity, and Bronco pride.”

Current Residence: Autryville, North Carolina

Favorite Quote or Inspiration: “The essence of life is to serve others and do good”

Local Alumni Chapter Affiliation: Sampson County Alumni Chapter

Academic Preparation: Fayetteville State University- Bachelor of Science-Criminal Justice (1991) Liberty University- Master of Arts- Human Service Counseling Western Governors University- *Master of Science- Human Resources (* pursuing)

Professional, Civic, Community Affiliations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®- Epsilon Phi Omega Chapter; Past Worthy Matron - Bright Star 232 Order of Eastern Star, District 10; Mizpah Court No. 79 Daughters of Isis; Current Illustrious Commandress of Mizpah Court , Oasis of Goldsboro, Desert of North Carolina; North Carolina Victims Network; Janice Faye’s Ranch Board ; Triangle Urban League Board; Central Carolina Community College Foundation Board; Bennett Belles Board of Directors.

Awards/Recognitions: 2014 Top Children’s Miracle Network Fundraiser; 2012 Harnett County Industry of the Year; 2012 City of Dunn Proclamation

Work Experience: UNC Health Southeastern-Social Worker- Psychiatry Emergency Department; Certified Victim Practitioner – NC Victims Network; Child Protective Services- NC Department of Health and Human Services; NCDPS Adult Probation and Parole Division; Food Lion Supply Chain Distribution

Hobbies or Interests: Cooking, golfing, traveling, community service

Contestant Statement: “Being a contestant gives me a greater opportunity to engage, serve, inspire, and uplift others while representing the mission and vision of Fayetteville State University with excellence. This contest gives me a chance to assist the major fundraiser for the National Alumni Association, as it focuses on raising money for scholarships for deserving FSU students. As an ambassador, I will engage with fellow alumni, support current students, promote school spirit, continue to enhance the university’s reputation and encourage alumni involvement throughout various student events. All of these are vital to the institution's continued success.”