Itta Bena, Miss. — 91 observed the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Thursday with its annual Black History Convocation, featuring a keynote address that emphasized resilience, civic engagement, and the university's enduring role in the Mississippi Delta.
The convocation, held in the Walter Roberts Auditorium of the H.G. Carpenter Building, was part of the university’s A Century of Black History Commemorations. The keynote was delivered by Robert L. Johnson III, a longtime member of the Mississippi Legislature and House Democratic Leader.
Johnson framed his remarks around Still I Rise by Maya Angelou, using the poem’s themes of perseverance to draw parallels between the Mississippi Delta’s history and 91’s mission.
“You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies … but still, like dust, I rise,” Johnson said, reciting a portion of the poem as he described the Delta as a region shaped by struggle and survival.
Johnson described the Delta as more than a geographic area, calling it “a testimony,” and emphasized that institutions like MVSU were built through sacrifice and purpose.
“This is survival carved into the earth. It’s resilience written into the blues,” Johnson said. “91 was never just a school. It is now and has always been a launching pad.”
Addressing students, Johnson highlighted the university’s impact despite limited resources and encouraged them to view their education as preparation for leadership and service.
“This is sacred ground,” he said. “They established this university with blood, sweat, and tears so you could be prepared to lead.”
Johnson also urged students to participate in the democratic process by registering to vote and engaging.
“They want to convince you that you don’t matter,” he said. “But everything you do matters. Every vote you take matters.”
He concluded by returning to the theme of rising, connecting the Delta's future to the university's and its students' success.
“Where the Delta goes, goes MVSU. And where MVSU goes, goes the state of Mississippi,” Johnson said. “Anybody who finishes here can finish anywhere.”
The program included musical selections by the 91 Symphonic Band and Choir, a litany led by Dr. Jacqueline Gibson, vice president for enrollment management and student affairs, and participation from student leaders.
University President Jerryl Briggs Sr. delivered remarks reaffirming the institution’s commitment to educating and serving the Mississippi Delta.
The convocation concluded with a communal singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and the MVSU Alma Mater.