Williams named USM Citizen Scholar

Special to The Clinton Courier

Camrell Williams

The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) Center for Community Engagement (CCE) recently named Camrell Williams of Clinton one of only eight students who have completed requirements for the USM Citizen Scholars distinction, a recognition for students demonstrating significant involvement in community engagement.

The Citizen Scholars program recognizes undergraduate students who have made significant contributions to their communities by incorporating service and community engagement into their academic experience. Students who earn one hundred or more service hours, participate in a community-engaged learning experience, and complete a reflective exit interview are eligible to be recognized as Citizen Scholars.

“The Citizen Scholars program recognizes students who show a deep commitment to service and have spent significant time engaging with the community throughout their academic studies,” said Christy Kayser, director of CCE. “These opportunities allow students to gain a better understanding of how their unique skills and chosen profession can positively impact the communities in which they will soon be working and living.”

All of the students recognized graduated in December or are scheduled to graduate in spring 2024.

Williams, a biological sciences major with minors in chemistry and psychology, completed one hundred service hours through volunteer work with USM’s Student Accessibility Services, Christian Services, and various volunteer initiatives through the Lambda Theta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Williams’ community-engaged learning experience was with the Forrest General Ambassador Program, where she delivered flowers to patient’s rooms, helped families navigate the hospital, and had genuine conversations with visitors and patients in the hospital.