Jerrika Nelson
DJMS Student
The campus was filled with excitement as Disney, teaming up with AT&T, shared career opportunities, mixed with fun and a little Disney magic on the plaza.
The Disney on the Yard event kicked off with a networking session on Sept. 11, where students received insider information on jobs, internships, and professional tips. Representatives shared direct links to applications, answered questions about programs, and offered guidance on resumes and professional decorum.
Many of the representatives were alumni, inspiring students by returning to their alma mater to share the numerous opportunities available with Disney and AT&T.
Ronza Anderson was one of the alumni who came back to inspire students at JSU to reach for the stars.
“It was very important for me to come back to JSU because I wanted to show students that they too can make it from an HBCU and succeed,” said Anderson, a Department of Journalism and Media Studies graduate.
Anderson now serves as a technical director at ESPN and stated he got his opportunity to work there by working with Disney on the Yard.
Anderson added: “Oftentimes there’s a stigma attached to graduating from HBCUs, and it’s important to show that you have to block out the noise and make a name for yourself and watch how success will eventually come.”
The Disney on the yard main event took place on Sept. 12 and had something for everyone. Students enjoyed informational booths, food trucks, free giveaways, and treats from Sno Biz and other vendors.
Students shared why they chose JSU in video booths as a DJ played popular music that kept the crowd moving and the energy high.
Jackson State Interim President Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D., even joined in on the fun by line dancing and interacting with students and representatives.
Maya Ahelegbe, a senior communicative disorders major from Minneapolis, Minn., loved the energy on the plaza and the opportunity to ask questions directly about internships.
“It was amazing to meet Disney and AT&T reps and learn about career paths I didn’t even know existed for students like me. It was really organized and well-set up. I got some free tickets, and now I’m in line to get a Sno Biz. I’m just out here listening to music and having a good time,” said Ahelegbe.
Disney and AT&T representatives emphasized their purpose for being on campus.
“The Walt Disney Company is here with our initiative Disney on the Yard, which promotes HBCU grads joining Disney. I’m a proud cast member and even prouder JSU alum,” said Disney representative Jessica Kennedy Vickers.
Elijah Brown of AT&T, a former intern and now full-time content strategist, emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for HBCU students.
“We’re here to give students the opportunities we had—or wish we had—while having fun and connecting with students. It’s all about sharing knowledge, giving back, and creating a good experience for everyone,” said Brown.
One of the highlights of the event was when Mickey Mouse made his debut as a Jackson State University drum major. The atmosphere exploded with excitement as Mickey high-stepped with J-5 with the help of The Sonic Boom of the South.
Disney on the Yard was more than an event. It provided JSU students with an opportunity to network, learn, and explore potential career paths, all while celebrating the university’s vibrant campus community.
