Randell "Randy" Perkins always knew he wanted to join the military to pay for college. Right out of high school, the Las Vegas native left the City of Lights to attend basic training. Due to his time in basic training and ongoing service as a cadet in the National Guard, Perkins has become the first JCSU cadet to sign his contract to serve in the military after graduation. When he walks across the stage to receive his diploma, Perkins will be commissioned into the U.S. military as an officer.

ÌýIt was standing room only in the Jane M. Smith Memorial Church Thursday as more than 400 freshmen packed the pews for the annual Freshman Convocation.Ìý

The class of 2028, the largest class of freshmen admitted to the University since before the COVID-19 pandemic, cemented their commitment to studying at the institution during this traditional service.

JCSU’s campus was abuzz Friday as freshmen students and their families unpacked their cars, moved into their residence halls, and set off on their journeys as Golden Bulls.ÌýThis new generation of Smithites is the largest incoming class since before the COVID-19 pandemic. This increase in enrollment has brought a number of unique and expressive new students to campus.

This year, 110 outstanding students from 77 HBCUs across the nation have been selected and named to the 2024 White House Scholars cohort for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential and dedication to their communities.Ìý °ÅÀÖÊÓƵ’s own Sean Carter, a senior Accounting major from Bronx, N.Y., is one of them!