Bay Springs Student Receives Annual Bishop Award From Southern Miss

HATTIESBURG, Miss.  – Despite her adversities, Pamela Denise Dickerson came to Southern Miss as a first generation college student with the unwavering drive to succeed. As Dickerson has learned to overcome the disadvantages of her past, she is now being recognized for her perseverance and accomplishments as a student, citizen and campus leader. 

Dickerson was named the 2009 Judge R.J. Bishop Mississippian Award recipient during The University of Southern Mississippi Founders’ Day ceremony March 30 in Hattiesburg. The award also carries a scholarship to help defray college expenses. 

This award, established in 1978 by Elna Bishop in loving memory of her father, Judge R.J. Bishop, honors men and women who have endured economic, family or physical hardships to pursue their education so that they, their children and other Mississippians might have a better life. The USM Foundation is the administrator of the fund.

“Denise has proven herself to be an excellent student and citizen, with concern for the growth of others and a delightful outlook on life,” said Larry Sparkman, director of the Luckyday Foundation Citizenship Scholars Program, who nominated Dickerson for the award. “Her work ethic is exemplary and her attitude is infectiously positive. Denise is always willing to help others, to embrace new opportunities and to give without expecting anything in return.”

Dickerson was abandoned by her mother when she was only 11 months old, leaving her in the care of her father and grandparents. After graduating as valedictorian of Bay Springs High School, Dickerson struggled to help her father and grandparents understand the importance of attending college. Now in her last semester as a nursing student, Dickerson has proven that the pursuit of education can be achieved regardless of hardships.

“Denise continues to demonstrate that through perseverance, despite adversity, success is possible,” said Dr. David Wolf, vice president for Advancement. “We hope the Bishop Award continues to inspire future generations of Southern Miss students to embrace the importance of education despite life’s challenges.”

As a student in the Luckyday Foundation Citizenship Scholars Program, Dickerson has exemplified the importance of campus and community involvement. She has served as a residence hall assistant, a member of the senate in the Student Government Association and member of Southern Style, the official orientation group sponsored by the Office of the First Year Experience. She has also worked with the Frances Karnes Summer Gifted Studies Program. Her success is not only celebrated by faculty and staff, but also by fellow students as she was elected vice president of her nursing class.

Even though Dickerson has been involved in many campus and community activities, she has maintained a 3.4 grade point average and will graduate with Latin honors as a student of the Honors College. After graduation, Dickerson plans to pursue a doctorate of nursing practice degree.