DSU graduate student wins prestigious USGIF Ken Miller Scholarship

Cleveland, MS (09/18/2024) — Contact: Christy Riddle FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phone: (662) 846-4336

Email: criddle@deltastate.edu

DSU graduate student wins prestigious USGIF Ken Miller Scholarship

CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University is proud to announce that Makeriah Hampton, a student in the Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies (MAS-GIT) program, has been awarded the highly coveted USGIF Ken Miller Scholarship for Advanced Remote Sensing Applications. This prestigious scholarship, awarded annually by the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF), provides $10,000 to support students pursuing advanced studies in remote sensing applications, particularly in the fields of defense and intelligence.

Hampton, who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to geospatial intelligence throughout her graduate studies, expressed her deep appreciation for the support she has received from the faculty and mentors at Delta State University. "Receiving the Ken Miller Scholarship is a significant honor and a transformative milestone in my academic and professional journey," said Hampton. "This scholarship not only recognizes my commitment to the field of geospatial intelligence but also provides essential financial support for my research and tuition expenses. I am inspired to contribute meaningfully to the geospatial community and am grateful for the mentorship and guidance I have received from my professors and academic advisors."

As a first-generation college student from Greenville, Hampton's journey has been marked by perseverance and a passion for geosciences. She graduated from Mississippi State University with a bachelor's degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation and a minor in Geospatial and Remote Sensing. Her desire to make a meaningful impact in geosciences led her to pursue advanced studies at Delta State University, where she has excelled under the guidance of her advisor, Director for the Interdisciplinary Center for Geospatial Information Technology and Professor of Practice Talbot Brooks, and the mentorship of Academic Program Manager Donna Spell. Hampton's role as a graduate assistant at the Geospatial Center has further enriched her academic experience, providing her with hands-on opportunities that have shaped her expertise in the field.

The scholarship, named in honor of Ken Miller, a prominent figure in the field of Measurement and Signatures Intelligence (MASINT), is funded by Riverside Research. It aims to foster the education and development of future professionals in the geospatial intelligence community by offering both financial assistance and unique networking opportunities with industry leaders.

Dr. Yongqin Zhang, director of the master's degree program in Geospatial Information Technologies at Delta State University and a key mentor in Hampton's academic journey, emphasized the significance of this achievement. She stated, "Makeriah's accomplishment is a testament to her hard work and dedication to the field of geospatial intelligence. We are incredibly proud of her and look forward to seeing the impact she will undoubtedly make in this field."

Delta State University remains committed to supporting the academic and professional growth of its students, encouraging them to reach new heights in their respective fields. Hampton's achievement is a shining example of the university's dedication to fostering excellence in its students.

For more information about the Geospatial Information Technologies programs at Delta State, please visit here.

Cutline: Makeriah Hampton, a Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies student at Delta State University, has been awarded the USGIF Ken Miller Scholarship for Advanced Remote Sensing Applications.

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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.

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Makeriah Hampton, a Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies student at Delta State University, has been awarded the USGIF Ken Miller Scholarship for Advanced Remote Sensing Applications.