The Mississippi Food Network has awarded Mississippi Valley State University the 2024 Spirit of Service Award to celebrate its commitment to community welfare. This recognition highlights the university’s ongoing efforts to combat local food insecurity in alignment with its motto, “Live for Service.”
Cheryl Featherstone, director of community service learning at MVSU, noted that the university’s partnership with the Mississippi Food Network has been a longstanding initiative. Upon taking on her role, Featherstone saw the importance of this collaboration and worked diligently to expand its reach and effectiveness.
Getting Student Athletes Involved
“I inherited the partnership through my position, but I made some changes,” Featherstone explained. She introduced a strategy that involved collaboration with the athletic department, allowing MVSU sports teams to contribute to community service hours by assisting with food box distributions. This innovative approach not only streamlined the process but also fostered a spirit of teamwork among students.
“Every time the Mississippi Food Network came to campus, they knew we had a team ready and available to help with the boxes,” said Featherstone. “I believe they appreciated that. It made the work less strenuous for them.” (READ MORE)
