February 23, 2023
Michelle Wilson-Stokes, Pearl River Community College’s Dean of Student Services at the Forrest County Campus, has been selected for the Phi Theta Kappa’s Distinguished Administrator Award.
This award recognizes college leaders for their outstanding support of student success, according to Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
“In 24 years as an educator, my passion for the students has guided every thought and decision,” said Wilson-Stokes. “Being chosen as the recipient of this award is definitely one of the highlights of my career. It reminds me that my focus is right on point.”
Wilson-Strokes, who began working at PRCC in 2008 as an adjunct instructor, will be recognized April 20-22 at Phi Theta Kappa’s annual convention in Columbus, Ohio.
“Dean Wilson-Stokes brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the college,” said Dr. Jana Causey, Vice President for Forrest County Campus, Allied Health and Nursing Programs.
“She has served in many roles throughout her educational career and is always willing to jump in and help or learn something new. As a result, she relates well to students, motivates those around her, and serves as a key component to our leadership team. She is very deserving of this award.”
Her acts of counseling and advisement have been powerful motivators for students who come to know she cares about their success.
“Dean Wilson-Stokes always, always has student success at heart, and she has the wisdom to know when that future success needs “tough love” right now or whether she needs to offer gentle encouragement or a shoulder to cry on,” said Dr. Ryan Ruckel, Dean, William Lewis Honors Institute.
“Every program or policy, and any initiative that originates from her office will always include both high expectations for students as well as for us as an institution so that we can work together to help students accomplish their goals with excellence of spirit as well as academics.”
“While she was nominated for this award by the highest-achieving students at her campus, this award is really about her commitment to the success of all students,” said Tincher-Ladner. “They know she is working hard to provide them more opportunities and stronger pathways to completion, transfer and employment.”
Wilson-Stokes taught at Hattiesburg High and North Forrest high schools before joining PRCC. At PRCC, she has served as a Library Technical Assistant, English and Psychology instructor and Student Services Coordinator before taking her current job.
Said Wilson-Stokes, “Working at PRCC was a dream come true. I said in August of 2008 when I first came on board that this was the best job I have ever had. Fifteen years later…it still is.”
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Article by Chuck Abadie.
