Philander Smith University

A successful summer STARTS with preparation. 💪🏾

Philander Smith University’s S.T.A.R.T. mentors are on campus sharpening the skills and insight needed to support, guide and serve participants throughout our summer bridge program. Training includes leadership development, CPR certification, substance awareness education, communication strategies and other hands-on experiences designed to help mentors lead with confidence and care.

Beginning June 12, participants – first-time freshmen – will spend six weeks living and learning on campus while earning college credit and scholarship opportunities, building community and transitioning into college life.

We’re ready to help bridge the gap between high school and college and set the stage for future success.

—

📧 [email protected] for more information.

We are proud to celebrate PSC/U alumna Ramona McGee, ’96, who has become the first woman in Little Rock School District history to have an athletic facility named in her honor.

The gymnasium at Pulaski Heights Middle School will now bear the name of the longtime educator and coach whose impact spans decades and generations of student-athletes. Her remarkable career includes numerous state championships and a legacy of excellence that continues to inspire.

We salute Coach McGee and this well-deserved recognition of a career dedicated to leadership, education and service. 💚💛

Class of 2026 Spotlight 🎓

“My name is Janeriah Ellatrice Gibson. I am a business major with a concentration in entrepreneurship.

I arrived at PSU at 17, still discovering who I was. By 21, I left with honors, carrying not just a degree, but lessons that will last a lifetime. Lessons shaped by friendships found and lost, and a journey that guided me fully into womanhood.

Stay true to yourself and keep God throughout your path!”
:
:
As we close out our Class of 2026 Spotlight Series, we once again congratulate Janeriah and all of our newest alumni Panthers. We’re proud of their scholastic accomplishments and excited to see what the future holds. 💫

Campus is a little quieter during the summer months, but it won’t stay that way for long.

Soon, these walkways, gathering spaces and classrooms will once again be filled with the energy, ambition and Panther spirit that make our campus feel like home.

If you haven’t registered for the fall semester yet, now’s the time.

One of our favorite projects that came to fruition during the spring semester was the opening of the Student Innovation Lounge, located on the first floor of the Myer L. Titus Academic Center.

Made possible through a grant awarded by The Home Depot’s Retool Your School program, the space was designed with students in mind, giving our Panthers another hub in which to study, collaborate, recharge, and connect.

Just one more example of putting our students first.

Philander Smith University will be closed Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day as we remember and honor those who gave their lives in service and sacrifice to our nation.

The University will resume its Summer Hours operating schedule on Tuesday, May 26.

🇺🇸

Class of 2026 Spotlight 🎓

DeCarlos Nora, Jr.
Bachelor of Business Administration in Management

A class valedictorian, DeCarlos finished his time at Philander Smith University serving as Student Government Association President having curated a legacy of scholarship, leadership, and service on campus — growth reflected in his own words:

“My time at PSU allowed me to become the best version of myself.”

See your opportunity.
See your purpose.
See your community.
See yourself.

Here.

Inside the Panther Pantry on our campus, care takes tangible form.

Stocked with groceries, essentials and support, the space has been dedicated since 2019 to combating food insecurity and promoting food justice within the PSU community, serving students, faculty and staff.

Because putting also means access, dignity and support matter.