News Room

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.