A 1997 graduate, Jefferson was a member of the Band of Gold and Who’s Who Among Community College Students. She later studied in Quebec, taught at a boarding school in Costa Rica while pursuing graduate work in Spanish, and participated in a yearlong Fulbright Classroom Teacher Exchange while teaching in Starkville Public Schools.

Today, Jefferson brings that global perspective to West Harrison High School, where she teaches subjects including African American Studies, Spanish and English as a Second Language. Her students experience culture through creative, hands-on projects, from building models of the Panama Canal to designing their own airlines, complete with logos and uniforms.

“Being a member of the Band of Gold was one of the best experiences I have ever had, not only for the music but for the camaraderie. I also learned that hard work brings rewards,” Jefferson said. “Going to college at MGCCC and living on campus was one of my first adventures, something I have continued to do throughout my life.”