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Building Futures: DeAsha Pickens Captures the Spirit of Fort Valley State University

Posted on May 09, 2024 at 18:18 PM


Among the excitement of graduation preparations at Fort Valley State University, DeAsha Pickens stands out as a source of inspiration and drive. This Spring 2024 graduate from Piedmont, South Carolina, is not only pursuing academic and extracurricular achievement but also preparing for a promising future in federal investigations, inspired by her family legacy and personal goals. 

Pickens, who is majoring in Political Science and minoring in Criminal Justice, has been a popular personality on campus. She received the distinguished title of Outstanding Student in Political Science at the 2024 Honors Convocation, demonstrating her academic rigor and dedication. But her tie to greatness doesn't end there: Pickens is the cousin of the late Ronald McNair, Ph.D., a well-known scientist and astronaut whose legacy continues to inspire her and other scholars. 

During her time at FVSU, Pickens demonstrated her leadership abilities by serving as president of the Wildcats Learning Community (WLC), formerly known as the Women's Learning Community, for two years. Her position as Miss WLC emphasizes her commitment to creating a supportive and empowering environment for women at the university and demonstrates her capacity to inspire and motivate her peers with grace and passion. 

Despite the difficulties of her academics, she kept a part-time job while actively participating in various student organizations. Pickens held leadership positions in the Political Science Student Association, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Royal Elite Modeling Troupe, exhibiting a distinct combination of academic and extracurricular abilities. Her commitment on campus extended to her position as treasurer for the Criminal Justice Club.

Pickens’ professional goals are heavily impacted by her uncle, Gregory McClendon, the first African American FBI agent in Middle Georgia. Following in his footsteps, she hopes to become a federal agent and complete her study in a forensics-focused master's degree. 

Meigan Fields, Ph.D., FVSU associate professor of Political Science, played an important role in Pickens’ academic career and commended her determination and leadership skills. "DeAsha has demonstrated an excellent ability to lead and perform under pressure.” Fields stated that since her first day at FVSU, she has continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible, demonstrating her ability to achieve excellence. 

DeAsha Pickens prepares to walk across the graduation stage, carrying her family's legacy, mentors' lessons, and her daughter's hopes. She leaves a legacy at Fort Valley State University that will encourage future generations to empower themselves and reach for the stars. 


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