Kentucky State University celebrated its Academic Honors Convocation on April 21, recognizing students for their academic excellence, leadership, and service. The ceremony took place in the Carl H. Smith Auditorium of David H. Bradford Hall.
The event highlighted the achievements of students who have demonstrated not only strong academic performance but also perseverance and contributions beyond the classroom. Fifty-three students received President’s Awards for earning perfect 4.0 grade point averages across all class levels.
Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, president of Kentucky State University, presented the awards to top honorees and emphasized the discipline required to maintain high grades while balancing other responsibilities. “The President’s Awards honors our remarkable students who have earned 4.0 GPAs,” Dr. Akakpo said. “This award symbolizes your perseverance and dedication to your education.” He added, “You are brilliant, you are resilient, and you are incredible. Your perseverance and work ethic will serve you for the rest of your life.”
Frankfort Mayor Layne Wilkerson presented the Mayor’s Citizenship Award to Mugisha Donatien for his leadership and service within both campus and community life as senior class president and drum major of the Mighty Marching Thorobreds. Reflecting on his recognition, Donatien said: “This is not just a reflection of what has been done, but a reminder of the responsibility ahead… To serve greater. To lead stronger. And to continue building something that will outlast all of us.”
Other speakers included Jade McCargo, a junior agriculture major who spoke about persistence through challenges: “In my eyes, excellence is not about just being able to add another club or organization to my resume; it’s about persevering even when it seemed like there was no light at the end of the tunnel,” McCargo said.
Regent Matthew Grimshaw delivered remarks as convocation speaker encouraging ambition paired with humility in leadership before being welcomed as an honorary member into Omicron Delta Kappa National Honor Society by Kentucky State University’s circle.
Academic deans recognized student accomplishments across various colleges during a program that also featured musical performances from university ensembles.
Closing out the ceremony, Dr. Michael D. Dailey noted that it was more than an acknowledgment of grades: “Today we have celebrated more than academic achievement — we have recognized perseverance, purpose, and pursuit of excellence that defines the Thorobred spirit,” Dr. Dailey said.
