The event began shortly after 6pm in the Valdry Center for Philanthropy here at Southern University, Tuesday, February 11th with words from Vice President of the MANRRS organization, junior Bryson Armstrong. Armstrong gained attention with a rewarding introduction of the individual that makes the presence of MANRRS so profound on Southern University’s campus, that individual being the Chancellor-Dean of the organization, Dr. Orlando F. McMeans.
Dr. McMeans graced the stage, immediately setting a positive tone for the evening. He spoke about the impact that MANRRS has had on his life, referring to the organization as “transformational.” McMeans also gifted students with words of wisdom within matters of professionalism and employers by stating “they are looking for someone that can come in and provide leadership for their organization, their entity, their agency.”
From this speech, it was not hard to gather the kind of effect MANRRS is having on students. This organization is intentionally and purposely not only working in their community to bring change, but producing a lasting impact on their students as well: developing leaders and public speakers through community, opportunity, and change.
After the speech from Dr. McMeans, it was now time for the pinning ceremony to highlight all new members of MANRRS and this new milestone in their lives. As each new member was called up to the stage, they were pinned. As each new member exited the stage, a quick photo was taken to fully commemorate the moment.
After each new member was pinned, president of MANRRS here at Southern, Sterling Brown closed with a message giving thanks to advisors and all who attended the event. After his closing remarks, food and refreshments were offered to guests.
As the event ended, it was key to hear directly from the students the kind of positive change MANNRS has had on them and their lives. Morgyn Edwards, an agricultural business major from Houston, Texas was among the students pinned at the ceremony.
Morgyn was essentially asked “In what ways has MANRRS positively affected your life?” To which she responded, “MANRRS has been very influential in my pursuits in agriculture. I have been able to make valuable connections with other ag majors and be exposed to people who are successful in my career field.”
Anaya Mackey, a sophomore from Chicago, Illinois, majoring in nutrition, health and wellness was pinned at the ceremony as well and asked the same question. Anaya spoke highly of MANRRS as it has always been a part of her life through her involvement in highschool as well, stating “It brings more agriculture opportunities to light that- more than I’ve known.”
Hearing what kind of influence MANRRS makes here on campus and beyond is admirable. MANRRS has touched so many without trying and continues to do so, bringing opportunity and transforming students one day at a time.
