WEBB — The West Tallahatchie High School JMG program recently held its annual initiation and installation ceremony in the auditorium.
The processional was given by JMG students followed by the posting of colors by Clarksdale High School ROTC.
Tony Young, WTSD federal programs director, sang the National Anthem. Prayer was made by Cornell Hooper followed by the welcome and opening remarks by Principal Shirlaurence Fair.
The crowning of the Mr. and Miss JMG was performed by the principal, followed by a poem by Brooklyn Williams.
The “Four Goals of JMG” were administered by Ethan Collier (leadership), Donovan McCord (career preparation), Jada McCorkle (social activities) and Kennedy Williams (civic activities).
The JMG pledge and oath were delivered by Mary Williams, counselor. Lighting of the candles was administered by Aniya Williams, followed with the introduction of the guest speaker by Adrianequa Wilchie.
The guest speaker was Pamela Confer, Ph.D., is an international, award-winning, bilingual professional speaker, jazz singer, business consultant, public relations guru and sports clay enthusiast. She explodes with confidence — teaching everyone how a simple smile can move the world!
With a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University, Confer is a TEDx Women presenter, corporate humorist and master soft-skills trainer. She is published in the area of cross-cultural literacy and globalization, and is sought after for her on-point perspective on how “good differences” can be activated to restore harmony.
Confer has served as a lead instructor and curriculum developer for the Mississippi State Personnel Board for approximately 17 years.
A singer/songwriter, Confer is recognized for her signature, interactive performances. She is an artist on the Mississippi Arts Commission’s roster and travels throughout the Southeast with her band, Jazz Beautiful. Her voice is described as, “velvet soul ... dipped in Jazz!”
In December 2017, Confer debuted “Mississippi Beautiful,” a song she wrote, produced and recorded in tribute to the state’s bicentennial and the opening of the Two Mississippi Museums. The anthem plays each day in the “Where Do We Go From Here” Gallery of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. She regularly performs the song across the state. In 2019, Gov. Phil Bryant issued a proclamation declaring May 10 as “Mississippi Beautiful Day” statewide.
On June 19, 2020, Confer debuted her single, “Stand!”, a foot-stomping anthem that provides a cadence for the injustices in communities of color. Confer is a strong advocate for community partnerships.
After Confer’s speech, recognition of guests and parents was given by Katilyn Mackey, followed with special thanks to parents by JMG students. Closing remarks were delivered by the principal.
