Grambling State News

Double-major student in Accounting and Computer Information Systems finishes with 3.92

By GSU Media Burea

This year Grambling State University’s top-ranking graduate is also one of its most accomplished. Spring 2018 Commencement Valedictorian, Jodeen Shillingford is known across the campus as one it’s most involved students.

“Most people and professors know Jodeen for her work,” said Dr. Donald White, Dean of Grambling State’s College of Business. “Mrs. Shillingford is one of those students who worked in the background but brought a lot of energy to the classroom and her involvement.”

During her time at Grambling State Shillingford volunteered with a number of organizations both on and off campus. Her volunteerism includes outreach through the National Association of Black Accountants; Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program; Louisiana CPA (LCPA) Student Chapter, Beta Gamma Sigma; Sigma Alpha Pi; and the International Students Organization.

Originally from Wesley, Dominica, her GSU honors follow a long list of accomplishments from organizations nationwide including:

• Who’s Who Among Students in Colleges and Universities
• President’s List each semester since enrolling at GSU
• College of Business Academic Scholar (2016 -2017)
• LCPA Educational Foundation Scholar (2017-2018)
• National Association of Black Accountants Regional Scholar (2016-2017)
• National Association of Black Accountants National Scholar (2017)
• North-East LCPA Scholar (2016-2017)
• GSU Radiothon Scholar (2016)
• Tom Joyner Scholar (2016)
• Workforce and Innovation for a Stronger Economy (WISE) Scholar (2017)
• College of Business Student for Professional Development, (2015)
• GSU’s High Ability Program (2016-2017)

After graduation, Shillingford plans to earn a master’s degree Accountancy and Finance to help her become the first Certified Public Accountant in her family.

“It’s exciting to be graduating and receive the honor because I didn’t see it coming,” says Jodeen. “I usually like to do a lot in the background, but it’s never on stage.”

Jodeen will take the stage with more than 400 graduates during Grambling State University’s Spring 2018 Commencement. She will share the stage with her follow graduates and the Interim CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, Cynthia Marshall who was the former Chief Diversity officer for AT&T.

Congratulations to Jodeen and the rest of the Spring 2018 graduating class of Grambling State University.

GSU Spotlights highlights the accomplishments of students, faculty, and alumni successes throughout the GSU Community. To nominate or provide feedback on GSU highlights, contact the Grambling State University Office of University Communications at mediarelations@gram.edu.