Black History Month marks its 100th year in 2026, an annual observance honoring the achievements of African American men and women who have made significant contributions to their communities, career fields and society. CSU is proud to recognize our Black alumni, students and faculty whose dedication to their communities and professions are making an impact now and for future generations.
Krystal Walker
A seasoned human resources professional with 18 years of active-duty service in the U.S. Army, 1st Sgt. Krystal Walker has received numerous recognitions, including the Horatio Gates Bronze Medal for leadership and excellence in the Adjutant General Corps, the Colonel Manning Achievement Medal for outstanding performance in human resources, and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal for her commitment to serving the community.
Walker earned a Master of Education degree in 2025.
Deshodrick Jefferson
Deshodrick Jefferson is a student financial coordinator with the University of Southern Mississippi, where he manages daily financial transactions, processes scholarships, financial aid entries and more, ensuring a smooth process for the university’s students. He chose HR due to his passion for helping people succeed.
Earning his bachelor’s degree in human resource management from CSU has allowed him to apply his strengthened communication, organization and problem-solving skills to the role. Jefferson is a first-generation college graduate and a member of Omega Nu Lambda National Honor Society and the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS).
Rachel Evans
Rachel Evans of Mobile, Alabama, is an IT helpdesk specialist at Franklin Primary Health Center. Her goal is to become a source to create effective technological solutions and improve the overall performance of computers. Evans earned her bachelor’s degree in information technology from CSU and completed the Google IT Support Professional Certificate after graduating. She plans to acquire more certifications in her field.
Evans volunteers for local nonprofits and events, including the local Mobile Arts Council and Mobile Area Special Olympics. She has also previously volunteered for organizations that empower Black-owned businesses. She is a proud member of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) and Omega Nu Lambda.
Michael Sheppard
Michael Sheppard is a United States Navy veteran and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in occupational safety and health at CSU. He is a wind turbine technician with Panorama Energy Services and uses the knowledge he’s received from his degree program to enhance safety in his field.
Sheppard is a lifetime member and former president of the Chapter 8 Association of Aviation Ordnancemen in San Diego, a nonprofit organization that represents sailors, both past and present, who load, maintain and manage aircraft weapons for naval aviation. Sheppard has been named to the President’s List twice during his time at CSU.
Lawanda Jackson
Lawanda Jackson of Boston, Georgia, is a human resource specialist with the city of Thomasville. She is co-owner of the nonprofit Boston Tutoring Program that provides academic and enrichment opportunities for local youth. In addition, Jackson is active in several civic and professional groups, which include serving as a city official in her hometown.
Through her HR role and nonprofit leadership, she has led initiatives that celebrate and support others. She earned an MBA with a concentration in human resource management from CSU.
Anthony Crowder
Anthony Crowder of Kansas City, Missouri, is the lead safety consultant with Diamond Safety and Training. Crowder is dedicated to developing innovative safety solutions and uses artificial intelligence to create safer workplaces and communities through data-driven risk management strategies. He brings a wealth of experience to the field, designing AI-driven safety hardware that includes wearable technology. With the look of a backpack, this cutting-edge tool monitors real-time exposure, worker movement patterns and leading safety indicators, alerting workers and supervisors to potential hazards before they occur to help reduce incident rates and severity.
Crowder and his team are developing their own AI safety software called Safety AI. This platform is designed to help safety professionals maintain up-to-date compliance with OSHA regulations by automatically researching, interpreting and integrating the latest standards and guidance into their safety and health management systems.
Crowder is an active member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). He earned a bachelor’s degree in occupational safety and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in the same field from CSU.
It is an honor to recognize our outstanding CSU students and alumni. If you are a CSU student or alumnus and would like to be recognized for your outstanding achievements, please email Communicator@ColumbiaSouthern.edu.
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
